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Man K, Brunet MY, Lees R, Peacock B, Cox SC. Epigenetic Reprogramming via Synergistic Hypomethylation and Hypoxia Enhances the Therapeutic Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Extracellular Vesicles for Bone Repair. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087564. [PMID: 37108726 PMCID: PMC10142722 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising cell population for regenerative medicine applications, where paracrine signalling through the extracellular vesicles (EVs) regulates bone tissue homeostasis and development. MSCs are known to reside in low oxygen tension, which promotes osteogenic differentiation via hypoxia-inducible factor-1α activation. Epigenetic reprogramming has emerged as a promising bioengineering strategy to enhance MSC differentiation. Particularly, the process of hypomethylation may enhance osteogenesis through gene activation. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of inducing hypomethylation and hypoxia on improving the therapeutic efficacy of EVs derived from human bone marrow MSCs (hBMSCs). The effects of the hypoxia mimetic agent deferoxamine (DFO) and the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-azacytidine (AZT) on hBMSC viability was assessed by quantifying the DNA content. The epigenetic functionality was evaluated by assessing histone acetylation and histone methylation. hBMSC mineralisation was determined by quantifying alkaline phosphate activity, collagen production and calcium deposition. EVs were procured from AZT, DFO or AZT/DFO-treated hBMSCs over a two-week period, with EV size and concentration defined using transmission electron microscopy, nanoflow cytometry and dynamic light scattering. The effects of AZT-EVs, DFO-EVs or AZT/DFO-EVs on the epigenetic functionality and mineralisation of hBMSCs were evaluated. Moreover, the effects of hBMSC-EVs on human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) angiogenesis was assessed by quantifying pro-angiogenic cytokine release. DFO and AZT caused a time-dose dependent reduction in hBMSC viability. Pre-treatment with AZT, DFO or AZT/DFO augmented the epigenetic functionality of the MSCs through increases in histone acetylation and hypomethylation. AZT, DFO and AZT/DFO pre-treatment significantly enhanced extracellular matrix collagen production and mineralisation in hBMSCs. EVs derived from AZT/DFO-preconditioned hBMSCs (AZT/DFO-EVs) enhanced the hBMSC proliferation, histone acetylation and hypomethylation when compared to EVs derived from AZT-treated, DFO-treated and untreated hBMSCs. Importantly, AZT/DFO-EVs significantly increased osteogenic differentiation and mineralisation of a secondary hBMSC population. Furthermore, AZT/DFO-EVs enhanced the pro-angiogenic cytokine release of HUVECs. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the considerable utility of synergistically inducing hypomethylation and hypoxia to improve the therapeutic efficacy of the MSC-EVs as a cell-free approach for bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Man
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Mathieu Y Brunet
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | | | | | - Sophie C Cox
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Man K, Brunet MY, Fernandez‐Rhodes M, Williams S, Heaney LM, Gethings LA, Federici A, Davies OG, Hoey D, Cox SC. Epigenetic reprogramming enhances the therapeutic efficacy of osteoblast-derived extracellular vesicles to promote human bone marrow stem cell osteogenic differentiation. J Extracell Vesicles 2021; 10:e12118. [PMID: 34262674 PMCID: PMC8263905 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging in tissue engineering as promising acellular tools, circumventing many of the limitations associated with cell-based therapies. Epigenetic regulation through histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition has been shown to increase differentiation capacity. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential of augmenting osteoblast epigenetic functionality using the HDAC inhibitor Trichostatin A (TSA) to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of osteoblast-derived EVs for bone regeneration. TSA was found to substantially alter osteoblast epigenetic function through reduced HDAC activity and increased histone acetylation. Treatment with TSA also significantly enhanced osteoblast alkaline phosphatase activity (1.35-fold), collagen production (2.8-fold) and calcium deposition (1.55-fold) during osteogenic culture (P ≤ 0.001). EVs derived from TSA-treated osteoblasts (TSA-EVs) exhibited reduced particle size (1-05-fold) (P > 0.05), concentration (1.4-fold) (P > 0.05) and protein content (1.16-fold) (P ≤ 0.001) when compared to untreated EVs. TSA-EVs significantly enhanced the proliferation (1.13-fold) and migration (1.3-fold) of human bone marrow stem cells (hBMSCs) when compared to untreated EVs (P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, TSA-EVs upregulated hBMSCs osteoblast-related gene and protein expression (ALP, Col1a, BSP1 and OCN) when compared to cells cultured with untreated EVs. Importantly, TSA-EVs elicited a time-dose dependent increase in hBMSCs extracellular matrix mineralisation. MicroRNA profiling revealed a set of differentially expressed microRNAs from TSA-EVs, which were osteogenic-related. Target prediction demonstrated these microRNAs were involved in regulating pathways such as 'endocytosis' and 'Wnt signalling pathway'. Moreover, proteomics analysis identified the enrichment of proteins involved in transcriptional regulation within TSA-EVs. Taken together, our findings suggest that altering osteoblasts' epigenome accelerates their mineralisation and promotes the osteoinductive potency of secreted EVs partly due to the delivery of pro-osteogenic microRNAs and transcriptional regulating proteins. As such, for the first time we demonstrate the potential to harness epigenetic regulation as a novel engineering approach to enhance EVs therapeutic efficacy for bone repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Man
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | | | | | - Soraya Williams
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health SciencesLoughborough UniversityLoughboroughUK
| | - Liam M. Heaney
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health SciencesLoughborough UniversityLoughboroughUK
| | - Lee A. Gethings
- Waters CorporationStamford AvenueWilmslowUK
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory MedicineFaculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthManchester Institute of BiotechnologyUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Angelica Federici
- Trinity Biomedical Sciences InstituteTrinity CollegeTrinity Centre for Biomedical EngineeringDublinIreland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Biomedical EngineeringSchool of EngineeringTrinity College DublinIreland
- Trinity College Dublin & RCSIAdvanced Materials and Bioengineering Research CentreDublinIreland
| | - Owen G. Davies
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health SciencesLoughborough UniversityLoughboroughUK
| | - David Hoey
- Trinity Biomedical Sciences InstituteTrinity CollegeTrinity Centre for Biomedical EngineeringDublinIreland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Biomedical EngineeringSchool of EngineeringTrinity College DublinIreland
- Trinity College Dublin & RCSIAdvanced Materials and Bioengineering Research CentreDublinIreland
| | - Sophie C. Cox
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
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Zaidan H, Galiani D, Gaisler-Salomon I. Pre-reproductive stress in adolescent female rats alters oocyte microRNA expression and offspring phenotypes: pharmacological interventions and putative mechanisms. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:113. [PMID: 33547270 PMCID: PMC7865076 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01220-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-reproductive stress (PRS) to adolescent female rats alters anxiogenic behavior in first (F1)- and second-generation (F2) offspring and increases mRNA expression of corticotropin-releasing factor receptor type 1 (Crhr1) in oocytes and in neonate offspring brain. Here, we ask whether the expression of Crhr1 and Crhr1-targeting microRNA is altered in brain, blood, and oocytes of exposed females and in the brain of their neonate and adult F1 and F2 offspring. In addition, we inquire whether maternal post-stress drug treatment reverses PRS-induced abnormalities in offspring. We find that PRS induces a selective increase in Crhr1-targeting mir-34a and mir-34c in blood and oocytes, while non-Crhr1 microRNA molecules remain unaltered. PRS induces similar microRNA changes in prefrontal cortex of F1 and F2 neonates. In adult animals, cortical Crhr1, but not mir-34, expression is affected by both maternal and direct stress exposure. Post-PRS fluoxetine (FLX) treatment increases pup mortality, and both FLX and the Crhr1 antagonist NBI 27914 reverse some of the effects of PRS and also have independent effects on F1 behavior and gene expression. PRS also alters behavior as well as gene and miRNA expression patterns in paternally derived F2 offspring, producing effects that are different from those previously found in maternally derived F2 offspring. These findings extend current knowledge on inter- and trans-generational transfer of stress effects, point to microRNA changes in stress-exposed oocytes as a potential mechanism, and highlight the consequences of post-stress pharmacological interventions in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Zaidan
- grid.18098.380000 0004 1937 0562School of Psychological Sciences and the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Dalia Galiani
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Inna Gaisler-Salomon
- School of Psychological Sciences and the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
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The "evolutionary field" hypothesis. Non-Mendelian transgenerational inheritance mediates diversification and evolution. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 134:27-37. [PMID: 29223657 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics is increasingly regarded as a potential contributing factor to evolution. Building on apparently unrelated results, here I propose that RNA-containing nanovesicles, predominantly small regulatory RNAs, are released from somatic tissues in the bloodstream, cross the Weismann barrier, reach the epididymis, and are eventually taken up by spermatozoa; henceforth the information is delivered to oocytes at fertilization. In the model, a LINE-1-encoded reverse transcriptase activity, present in spermatozoa and early embryos, plays a key role in amplifying and propagating these RNAs as extrachromosomal structures. It may be conceived that, over generations, the cumulative effects of sperm-delivered RNAs would cross a critical threshold and overcome the buffering capacity of embryos. As a whole, the process can promote the generation of an information-containing platform that drives the reshaping of the embryonic epigenetic landscape with the potential to generate ontogenic changes and redirect the evolutionary trajectory. Over time, evolutionary significant, stably acquired variations could be generated through the process. The interplay between these elements defines the concept of "evolutionary field", a self-consistent, comprehensive information-containing platform and a source of discontinuous evolutionary novelty.
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Paternal spatial training enhances offspring's cognitive performance and synaptic plasticity in wild-type but not improve memory deficit in Alzheimer's mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1521. [PMID: 28484240 PMCID: PMC5431522 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01811-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that spatial training can maintain associative memory capacity in Tg2576 mice, but it is not known whether the beneficial effects can be inherited from the trained fathers to their offspring. Here, we exposed male wild-type and male 3XTg Alzheimer disease (AD) mice (3-m old) respectively to spatial training for one week and assessed the transgenerational effects in the F1 offspring when they were grown to 7-m old. We found that the paternal spatial training significantly enhanced progeny’s spatial cognitive performance and synaptic transmission in wild-type mice. Among several synapse- or memory-associated proteins, we observed that the expression level of synaptotagmin 1 (SYT1) was significantly increased in the hippocampus of the paternally trained-offspring. Paternal training increased histone acetylation at the promoter of SYT1 in both fathers’ and the offspring’s hippocampus, and as well as in the fathers’ sperm. Finally, paternal spatial training for one week did not improve memory and synaptic plasticity in 3XTg AD F1 offspring. Our findings suggest paternal spatial training for one week benefits the offspring’s cognitive performance in wild-type mice with the mechanisms involving an enhanced transgenerational histone acetylation at SYT1 promoter.
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Sharma A. Transgenerational epigenetics: Integrating soma to germline communication with gametic inheritance. Mech Ageing Dev 2017; 163:15-22. [PMID: 28093237 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2016.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Evidence supporting germline mediated epigenetic inheritance of environmentally induced traits has increasingly emerged over the past several years. Although the mechanisms underlying this inheritance remain unclear, recent findings suggest that parental gamete-borne epigenetic factors, particularly RNAs, affect post-fertilization and developmental gene regulation, ultimately leading to phenotypic appearance in the offspring. Complex processes involving gene expression and epigenetic regulation are considered to perpetuate across generations. In addition to transfer of germline factors, epigenetic inheritance via gametes also requires a mechanism whereby the information pertaining to the induced traits is communicated from soma to germline. Despite violating a century-old view in biology, this communication seems to play a role in transmission of environmental effects across generations. Circulating RNAs, especially those associated with extracellular vesicles like exosomes, are emerging as promising candidates that can transmit gene regulatory information in this direction. Cumulatively, these new observations provide a basis to integrate epigenetic inheritance. With significant implications in health, disease and ageing, the latter appears poised to revolutionize biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhay Sharma
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Sukhdev Vihar, Mathura Road, New Delhi, 110025, India.
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7
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Aucamp J, Bronkhorst AJ, Badenhorst CPS, Pretorius PJ. A historical and evolutionary perspective on the biological significance of circulating DNA and extracellular vesicles. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:4355-4381. [PMID: 27652382 PMCID: PMC11108302 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2370-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Revised: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of quantitative and qualitative differences of the circulating DNA (cirDNA) between healthy and diseased individuals inclined researchers to investigate these molecules as potential biomarkers for non-invasive diagnosis and prognosis of various pathologies. However, except for some prenatal tests, cirDNA analyses have not been readily translated to clinical practice due to a lack of knowledge regarding its composition, function, and biological and evolutionary origins. We believe that, to fully grasp the nature of cirDNA and the extracellular vesicles (EVs) and protein complexes with which it is associated, it is necessary to probe the early and badly neglected work that contributed to the discovery and development of these concepts. Accordingly, this review consists of a schematic summary of the major events that developed and integrated the concepts of heredity, genetic information, cirDNA, EVs, and protein complexes. CirDNA enters target cells and provokes a myriad of gene regulatory effects associated with the messaging functions of various natures, disease progression, somatic genome variation, and transgenerational inheritance. This challenges the traditional views on each of the former topics. All of these discoveries can be traced directly back to the iconic works of Darwin, Lamarck, and their followers. The history of cirDNA that has been revisited here is rich in information that should be considered in clinical practice, when designing new experiments, and should be very useful for generating an empirically up-to-date view of cirDNA and EVs. Furthermore, we hope that it will invite many flights of speculation and stimulate further inquiry into its biological and evolutionary origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Aucamp
- Centre for Human Metabolomics, Biochemistry Division, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - Abel J Bronkhorst
- Centre for Human Metabolomics, Biochemistry Division, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Christoffel P S Badenhorst
- Department of Biotechnology and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, Greifswald University, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4, 17487, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Piet J Pretorius
- Centre for Human Metabolomics, Biochemistry Division, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
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8
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Gupta K, Sengupta A, Chakraborty M, Gupta B. Hydrogen Peroxide and Polyamines Act as Double Edged Swords in Plant Abiotic Stress Responses. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 7:1343. [PMID: 27672389 PMCID: PMC5018498 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.01343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The specific genetic changes through which plants adapt to the multitude of environmental stresses are possible because of the molecular regulations in the system. These intricate regulatory mechanisms once unveiled will surely raise interesting questions. Polyamines and hydrogen peroxide have been suggested to be important signaling molecules during biotic and abiotic stresses. Hydrogen peroxide plays a versatile role from orchestrating physiological processes to stress response. It helps to achieve acclimatization and tolerance to stress by coordinating intra-cellular and systemic signaling systems. Polyamines, on the other hand, are low molecular weight polycationic aliphatic amines, which have been implicated in various stress responses. It is quite interesting to note that both hydrogen peroxide and polyamines have a fine line of inter-relation between them since the catabolic pathways of the latter releases hydrogen peroxide. In this review we have tried to illustrate the roles and their multifaceted functions of these two important signaling molecules based on current literature. This review also highlights the fact that over accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and polyamines can be detrimental for plant cells leading to toxicity and pre-mature cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamala Gupta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Presidency UniversityKolkata, India
- Department of Botany, Government General Degree College, Affiliated to University of BurdwanSingur, India
| | - Atreyee Sengupta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Presidency UniversityKolkata, India
| | | | - Bhaskar Gupta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Presidency UniversityKolkata, India
- Department of Zoology, Government General Degree College, Affiliated to University of BurdwanSingur, India
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Szabó PE. Response to "Variable directionality of gene expression changes across generations does not constitute negative evidence of epigenetic inheritance" Sharma, A. Environmental Epigenetics, 2015, 1-5. Genome Biol 2016; 17:105. [PMID: 27184890 PMCID: PMC4868108 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-016-0978-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Abhay Sharma brings two arguments in favor of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance (TGEI) in mammals when criticizing our work. He uses probability calculations and finds that the probability of obtaining the number of common changes in the in utero-exposed prospermatogonia and the same cells in the next generation is significant in our study. He also compares our results to other published datasets and concludes that the probability for the observed overlap between independent studies is significant. We disagree with both arguments of Sharma and show here that his meta-analysis and statistical calculations are not correct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piroska E Szabó
- Van Andel Research Institute, Center for Epigenetics, 333 Bostwick Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
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10
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Klosin A, Lehner B. Mechanisms, timescales and principles of trans-generational epigenetic inheritance in animals. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2016; 36:41-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Noncoding RNA as regulators of cardiac fibrosis: current insight and the road ahead. Pflugers Arch 2016; 468:1103-11. [PMID: 26786602 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-016-1792-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is an important pathological feature of cardiac remodeling in heart diseases. The molecular mechanisms of cardiac fibrosis are unknown. Genomic analyses estimated that many noncoding DNA regions generate noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). ncRNAs have emerged as key molecular players in the regulation of gene expression in different biological processes. Recent studies have started to reveal the importance of ncRNAs in heart development and suggest also an involvement in cardiac fibrosis. These molecules are emerging as important regulators of cellular process. Here, we review particularly focuses on the involvement of two large families of ncRNAs, namely microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) in the regulation of cardiac fibrosis. Furthermore, we review the functions and role of ncRNAs in cardiac biology and discuss these reports and the therapeutic potential of ncRNAs for cardiac fibrosis associated with fibroblast activation and proliferation.
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The Role of Extracellular Vesicles: An Epigenetic View of the Cancer Microenvironment. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:649161. [PMID: 26582468 PMCID: PMC4637039 DOI: 10.1155/2015/649161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes, microvesicles, and other extracellular vesicles are released by many cell types, including cancer cells and cancer-related immune cells. Extracellular vesicles can directly or indirectly facilitate the transfer of bioinformation to recipient cells or to the extracellular environment. In cancer, exosomes have been implicated in tumor initiation, proliferation, and metastasis. Extracellular vesicles can transmit proteins and nucleic acids that participate in DNA methylation, histone modification, and posttranscriptional regulation of RNA. Factors transmitted by extracellular vesicles reflect the donor cell status, and extracellular vesicles derived from tumor cells may be also responsible for altering expression of tumor promoting and tumor suppressing genes in recipient cells. Thus, circulating extracellular vesicles may act as biomarkers of cancer, and detection of these biomarkers may be applied to diagnosis or assessment of prognosis in patients with cancer.
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13
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Nagy C, Turecki G. Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance: an open discussion. Epigenomics 2015; 7:781-90. [DOI: 10.2217/epi.15.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Much controversy surrounds the idea of transgenerational epigenetics. Recent papers argue that epigenetic marks acquired through experience are passed to offspring, but as in much of the field of epigenetics, there is lack of precision in the definitions and perhaps too much eagerness to translate animal research to humans. Here, we review operational definitions of transgenerational inheritance and the processes of epigenetic programing during early development. Subsequently, based on this background, we critically examine some recent findings of studies investigating transgenerational inheritance. Finally, we discuss possible mechanisms that may explain transgenerational inheritance, including transmission of an epigenetic blueprint, which may predispose offspring to specific epigenetic patterning. Taken together, we conclude that presently, the evidence suggesting that acquired epigenetic marks are passed to the subsequent generation remains limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Nagy
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital University Institute, 6875 Lasalle boul, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Hospital University Institute, 6875 Lasalle boul, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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14
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Sharma A. Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance: Emerging concepts and future prospects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrhm.2015.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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15
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Bhandari RK, Deem SL, Holliday DK, Jandegian CM, Kassotis CD, Nagel SC, Tillitt DE, Vom Saal FS, Rosenfeld CS. Effects of the environmental estrogenic contaminants bisphenol A and 17α-ethinyl estradiol on sexual development and adult behaviors in aquatic wildlife species. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 214:195-219. [PMID: 25277515 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2014] [Revised: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including the mass-produced component of plastics, bisphenol A (BPA) are widely prevalent in aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Many aquatic species, such as fish, amphibians, aquatic reptiles and mammals, are exposed daily to high concentrations of BPA and ethinyl estradiol (EE2), estrogen in birth control pills. In this review, we will predominantly focus on BPA and EE2, well-described estrogenic EDCs. First, the evidence that BPA and EE2 are detectable in almost all bodies of water will be discussed. We will consider how BPA affects sexual and neural development in these species, as these effects have been the best characterized across taxa. For instance, such chemicals have been in many cases reported to cause sex-reversal of males to females. Even if these chemicals do not overtly alter the gonadal sex, there are indications that several EDCs might demasculinize male-specific behaviors that are essential for attracting a mate. In so doing, these chemicals may reduce the likelihood that these males reproduce. If exposed males do reproduce, the concern is that they will then be passing on compromised genetic fitness to their offspring and transmitting potential transgenerational effects through their sperm epigenome. We will thus consider how diverse epigenetic changes might be a unifying mechanism of how BPA and EE2 disrupt several processes across species. Such changes might also serve as universal species diagnostic biomarkers of BPA and other EDCs exposure. Lastly, the evidence that estrogenic EDCs-induced effects in aquatic species might translate to humans will be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramji K Bhandari
- Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Sharon L Deem
- Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA; Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Dawn K Holliday
- Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Westminster College, Fulton, MO 65251, USA; Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Caitlin M Jandegian
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, MO 65201, USA; Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA; Masters in Public Health Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | | | - Susan C Nagel
- Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Donald E Tillitt
- Columbia Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | | | - Cheryl S Rosenfeld
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Genetics Area Program Faculty Member, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
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Jiménez-Chillarón JC, Nijland MJ, Ascensão AA, Sardão VA, Magalhães J, Hitchler MJ, Domann FE, Oliveira PJ. Back to the future: transgenerational transmission of xenobiotic-induced epigenetic remodeling. Epigenetics 2015; 10:259-73. [PMID: 25774863 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2015.1020267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics, or regulation of gene expression independent of DNA sequence, is the missing link between genotype and phenotype. Epigenetic memory, mediated by histone and DNA modifications, is controlled by a set of specialized enzymes, metabolite availability, and signaling pathways. A mostly unstudied subject is how sub-toxic exposure to several xenobiotics during specific developmental stages can alter the epigenome and contribute to the development of disease phenotypes later in life. Furthermore, it has been shown that exposure to low-dose xenobiotics can also result in further epigenetic remodeling in the germ line and contribute to increase disease risk in the next generation (multigenerational and transgenerational effects). We here offer a perspective on current but still incomplete knowledge of xenobiotic-induced epigenetic alterations, and their possible transgenerational transmission. We also propose several molecular mechanisms by which the epigenetic landscape may be altered by environmental xenobiotics and hypothesize how diet and physical activity may counteract epigenetic alterations.
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Sharma A. Variable directionality of gene expression changes across generations does not constitute negative evidence of epigenetic inheritance. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2015; 1:dvv005. [PMID: 29492280 PMCID: PMC5804684 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvv005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mammals has been controversial due to inherent difficulties in its experimental demonstration. A recent report has, however, opened a new front in the ongoing debate by claiming that endocrine disrupting chemicals, contrary to previous findings, do not cause effects across generations. This claim is based on the observation that gene expression changes induced by these chemicals in the exposed and unexposed generations are mainly in the opposite direction. This analysis shows that the pattern of gene expression reported in the two generations is not expected by chance and is suggestive of transmission across generations. A meta-analysis of diverse data sets related to endocrine disruptor-induced transgenerational gene expression alterations, including the data provided in the said report, further suggests that effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals persist in unexposed generations. Based on the prior evidence of phenotypic variability and gene expression alterations in opposite direction between generations, it is argued here that calling evidence of mismatched directionality in gene expression in experiments testing potential of environmental agents in inducing epigenetic inheritance of phenotypic traits as negative is untenable. This is expected to settle the newly raised doubts over epigenetic inheritance in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhay Sharma
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Council of Scientific
and Industrial Research, Sukhdev Vihar, Mathura Road, New Delhi 110025, India
- *Correspondence address. CSIR-Institute of Genomics and
Integrative Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Sukhdev Vihar, Mathura
Road, New Delhi 110025, India. Tel: +91-11-26932421; Fax:
+91-11-27662407;
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18
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Sharma A. Bioinformatic analysis revealing association of exosomal mRNAs and proteins in epigenetic inheritance. J Theor Biol 2014; 357:143-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2014.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Revised: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Minocha R, Majumdar R, Minocha SC. Polyamines and abiotic stress in plants: a complex relationship. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2014; 5:175. [PMID: 24847338 PMCID: PMC4017135 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2014.00175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The physiological relationship between abiotic stress in plants and polyamines was reported more than 40 years ago. Ever since there has been a debate as to whether increased polyamines protect plants against abiotic stress (e.g., due to their ability to deal with oxidative radicals) or cause damage to them (perhaps due to hydrogen peroxide produced by their catabolism). The observation that cellular polyamines are typically elevated in plants under both short-term as well as long-term abiotic stress conditions is consistent with the possibility of their dual effects, i.e., being protectors from as well as perpetrators of stress damage to the cells. The observed increase in tolerance of plants to abiotic stress when their cellular contents are elevated by either exogenous treatment with polyamines or through genetic engineering with genes encoding polyamine biosynthetic enzymes is indicative of a protective role for them. However, through their catabolic production of hydrogen peroxide and acrolein, both strong oxidizers, they can potentially be the cause of cellular harm during stress. In fact, somewhat enigmatic but strong positive relationship between abiotic stress and foliar polyamines has been proposed as a potential biochemical marker of persistent environmental stress in forest trees in which phenotypic symptoms of stress are not yet visible. Such markers may help forewarn forest managers to undertake amelioration strategies before the appearance of visual symptoms of stress and damage at which stage it is often too late for implementing strategies for stress remediation and reversal of damage. This review provides a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the published literature on interactions between abiotic stress and polyamines in plants, and examines the experimental strategies used to understand the functional significance of this relationship with the aim of improving plant productivity, especially under conditions of abiotic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Minocha
- US Forest Service, Northern Research StationDurham, NH, USA
| | - Rajtilak Majumdar
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research ServiceGeneva, NY, USA
| | - Subhash C. Minocha
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New HampshireDurham, NH, USA
- *Correspondence: Subhash C. Minocha, Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Rudman Hall, 46 College Road, Durham, NH 03824, USA e-mail:
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Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small nonprotein-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that have been shown to promote the degradation of target messenger RNAs and inhibit the translation of networks of protein-coding genes to control the development of cells and tissues, and facilitate their adaptation to environmental forces. In this chapter, we will discuss recent data that show that miRNAs are an important component of the epigenetic landscape that regulates the transcription as well as the translation of protein-coding gene networks. We will discuss the evidence that implicates miRNAs in both developmental and adult effects of alcohol consumption. Understanding the interactions of this novel class of ncRNAs with the epigenome will be important for understanding the etiology of alcohol teratology and addiction as well as potential new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh C Miranda
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics and Women's Health in Neuroscience Program, A&M Health Science Center, College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas, USA.
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