1
|
Miao Y, Pourquié O. Cellular and molecular control of vertebrate somitogenesis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:517-533. [PMID: 38418851 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00709-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Segmentation is a fundamental feature of the vertebrate body plan. This metameric organization is first implemented by somitogenesis in the early embryo, when paired epithelial blocks called somites are rhythmically formed to flank the neural tube. Recent advances in in vitro models have offered new opportunities to elucidate the mechanisms that underlie somitogenesis. Notably, models derived from human pluripotent stem cells introduced an efficient proxy for studying this process during human development. In this Review, we summarize the current understanding of somitogenesis gained from both in vivo studies and in vitro studies. We deconstruct the spatiotemporal dynamics of somitogenesis into four distinct modules: dynamic events in the presomitic mesoderm, segmental determination, somite anteroposterior polarity patterning, and epithelial morphogenesis. We first focus on the segmentation clock, as well as signalling and metabolic gradients along the tissue, before discussing the clock and wavefront and other models that account for segmental determination. We then detail the molecular and cellular mechanisms of anteroposterior polarity patterning and somite epithelialization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuchuan Miao
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Olivier Pourquié
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kruger RE, Frum T, Brumm AS, Hickey SL, Niakan KK, Aziz F, Shammami MA, Roberts JG, Ralston A. Smad4 is essential for epiblast scaling and morphogenesis after implantation, but nonessential before implantation. Development 2024; 151:dev202377. [PMID: 38752427 PMCID: PMC11190579 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signaling plays an essential and highly conserved role in embryo axial patterning in animal species. However, in mammalian embryos, which develop inside the mother, early development includes a preimplantation stage, which does not occur in externally developing embryos. During preimplantation, the epiblast is segregated from extra-embryonic lineages that enable implantation and development in utero. Yet, the requirement for BMP signaling is imprecisely defined in mouse early embryos. Here, we show that, in contrast to previous reports, BMP signaling (SMAD1/5/9 phosphorylation) is not detectable until implantation when it is detected in the primitive endoderm - an extra-embryonic lineage. Moreover, preimplantation development appears to be normal following deletion of maternal and zygotic Smad4, an essential effector of canonical BMP signaling. In fact, mice lacking maternal Smad4 are viable. Finally, we uncover a new requirement for zygotic Smad4 in epiblast scaling and cavitation immediately after implantation, via a mechanism involving FGFR/ERK attenuation. Altogether, our results demonstrate no role for BMP4/SMAD4 in the first lineage decisions during mouse development. Rather, multi-pathway signaling among embryonic and extra-embryonic cell types drives epiblast morphogenesis postimplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin E. Kruger
- Cell and Molecular Biology Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Tristan Frum
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - A. Sophie Brumm
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute,London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Stephanie L. Hickey
- Research Technology Support Facility, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Kathy K. Niakan
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute,London NW1 1AT, UK
- The Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- Wellcome Trust – Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
- Epigenetics Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Farina Aziz
- Cell and Molecular Biology Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Marcelio A. Shammami
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Genetics and Genome Sciences Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Jada G. Roberts
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Amy Ralston
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Manning E, Placzek M. Organizing activities of axial mesoderm. Curr Top Dev Biol 2024; 157:83-123. [PMID: 38556460 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
For almost a century, developmental biologists have appreciated that the ability of the embryonic organizer to induce and pattern the body plan is intertwined with its differentiation into axial mesoderm. Despite this, we still have a relatively poor understanding of the contribution of axial mesoderm to induction and patterning of different body regions, and the manner in which axial mesoderm-derived information is interpreted in tissues of changing competence. Here, with a particular focus on the nervous system, we review the evidence that axial mesoderm notochord and prechordal mesoderm/mesendoderm act as organizers, discuss how their influence extends through the different axes of the developing organism, and describe how the ability of axial mesoderm to direct morphogenesis impacts on its role as a local organizer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Manning
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Marysia Placzek
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kruger RE, Frum T, Brumm AS, Hickey SL, Niakan KK, Aziz F, Shammami MA, Roberts JG, Ralston A. Smad4 is essential for epiblast scaling and morphogenesis after implantation, but nonessential prior to implantation in the mouse. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.23.576717. [PMID: 38328075 PMCID: PMC10849569 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.23.576717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Bone Morphogenic Protein (BMP) signaling plays an essential and highly conserved role in axial patterning in embryos of many externally developing animal species. However, in mammalian embryos, which develop inside the mother, early development includes an additional stage known as preimplantation. During preimplantation, the epiblast lineage is segregated from the extraembryonic lineages that enable implantation and development in utero. Yet, the requirement for BMP signaling in mouse preimplantation is imprecisely defined. We show that, in contrast to prior reports, BMP signaling (as reported by SMAD1/5/9 phosphorylation) is not detectable until implantation, when it is detected in the primitive endoderm - an extraembryonic lineage. Moreover, preimplantation development appears normal following deletion of maternal and zygotic Smad4, an essential effector of BMP signaling. In fact, mice lacking maternal Smad4 are viable. Finally, we uncover a new requirement for zygotic Smad4 in epiblast scaling and cavitation immediately after implantation, via a mechanism involving FGFR/ERK attenuation. Altogether, our results demonstrate no role for BMP4/SMAD4 in the first lineage decisions during mouse development. Rather, multi-pathway signaling among embryonic and extraembryonic cell types drives epiblast morphogenesis post-implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin E. Kruger
- Cell and Molecular Biology Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Tristan Frum
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Current address: Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - A. Sophie Brumm
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute; London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Stephanie L. Hickey
- Research Technology Support Facility, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Kathy K. Niakan
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute; London, NW1 1AT, UK
- The Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
- Wellcome Trust – Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge, CB2 0AW, UK
- Epigenetics Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge, CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Farina Aziz
- Cell and Molecular Biology Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Marcelio A. Shammami
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Genetics and Genome Sciences Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Jada G. Roberts
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology Ph.D. Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Amy Ralston
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dutriaux A, Diazzi S, Bresesti C, Hardouin S, Deshayes F, Collignon J, Flagiello D. LADON, a Natural Antisense Transcript of NODAL, Promotes Tumour Progression and Metastasis in Melanoma. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:71. [PMID: 37987367 PMCID: PMC10661258 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9060071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGFβ family member NODAL, repeatedly required during embryonic development, has also been associated with tumour progression. Our aim was to clarify the controversy surrounding its involvement in melanoma tumour progression. We found that the deletion of the NODAL exon 2 in a metastatic melanoma cell line impairs its ability to form tumours and colonize distant tissues. However, we show that this phenotype does not result from the absence of NODAL, but from a defect in the expression of a natural antisense transcript of NODAL, here called LADON. We show that LADON expression is specifically activated in metastatic melanoma cell lines, that its transcript is packaged in exosomes secreted by melanoma cells, and that, via its differential impact on the expression of oncogenes and tumour suppressors, it promotes the mesenchymal to amoeboid transition that is critical for melanoma cell invasiveness. LADON is, therefore, a new player in the regulatory network governing tumour progression in melanoma and possibly in other types of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jérôme Collignon
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France; (A.D.); (S.D.)
| | - Domenico Flagiello
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France; (A.D.); (S.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wu B, Yang Z, Liu Y, Li J, Chen C, Li X, Bao S. A chemically defined system supports two distinct types of stem cell from a single blastocyst and their self-assembly to generate blastoid. Cell Prolif 2023:e13396. [PMID: 36593753 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The pluripotent stem cells exist in a narrow window during early development and its derivation depends on intrinsic and extrinsic growth signalling in vitro. It has remained challenging to derive two or three distinct cell lines that are representative of blastocyst-stage lineages from one preimplantation embryo simultaneously in a chemical defined condition. Therefore, it is desirable to establish a system by manipulating extrinsic signalling in culture to derive multiple types of stem cells from a single blastocyst. This study used a defined medium containing Activin A, WNT activator and LIF (ACL medium), enabling establishment of ACL-ESCs and ACL-XEN cells from one blastocyst. ACL-blastoids were generated by suspending ACL-ESCs and ACL-XEN cells with ACL-blastoid medium in three-dimensional culture system. Lineage markers expression of ACL-blastoids were performed by immunofluorescence. Our results indicate that ACL-ESCs and ACL-XEN cells derived from one blastocyst represent ICM and PrE lineages. Importantly, we obtained ACL-blastoid from ACL-ESCs and ACL-XEN cells self-aggregation, partially recapitulating early development and initiation of early implantation events. This study would not only provide ACL culture system for derivation and maintenance of two types of cell lines corresponding to ICM as well as PrE, but also reconstruct blastoids with them to deepen our understanding of early embryogenesis and widen insights into translational application of stem cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baojiang Wu
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Research Centre for Animal Genetic Resources of Mongolia Plateau, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Zhiqing Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Research Centre for Animal Genetic Resources of Mongolia Plateau, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yijie Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Research Centre for Animal Genetic Resources of Mongolia Plateau, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jianwen Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Research Centre for Animal Genetic Resources of Mongolia Plateau, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Chen Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Research Centre for Animal Genetic Resources of Mongolia Plateau, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xihe Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Research Centre for Animal Genetic Resources of Mongolia Plateau, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Inner Mongolia Saikexing Institute of Breeding and Reproductive Biotechnology in Domestic Animal, Hohhot, China
| | - Siqin Bao
- The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China.,Research Centre for Animal Genetic Resources of Mongolia Plateau, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Humphreys PA, Mancini FE, Ferreira MJS, Woods S, Ogene L, Kimber SJ. Developmental principles informing human pluripotent stem cell differentiation to cartilage and bone. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 127:17-36. [PMID: 34949507 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into any cell type given appropriate signals and hence have been used to research early human development of many tissues and diseases. Here, we review the major biological factors that regulate cartilage and bone development through the three main routes of neural crest, lateral plate mesoderm and paraxial mesoderm. We examine how these routes have been used in differentiation protocols that replicate skeletal development using human pluripotent stem cells and how these methods have been refined and improved over time. Finally, we discuss how pluripotent stem cells can be employed to understand human skeletal genetic diseases with a developmental origin and phenotype, and how developmental protocols have been applied to gain a better understanding of these conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Humphreys
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering & Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Fabrizio E Mancini
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Miguel J S Ferreira
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering & Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Steven Woods
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Leona Ogene
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cheng W, Liu F, Ren Z, Chen W, Chen Y, Liu T, Ma Y, Cao N, Wang J. Parallel functional assessment of m6A sites in human endodermal differentiation with base editor screens. Nat Commun 2022; 13:478. [PMID: 35078991 PMCID: PMC8789821 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28106-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractN6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays important role in lineage specifications of embryonic stem cells. However, it is still difficult to systematically dissect the specific m6A sites that are essential for early lineage differentiation. Here, we develop an adenine base editor-based strategy to systematically identify functional m6A sites that control lineage decisions of human embryonic stem cells. We design 7999 sgRNAs targeting 6048 m6A sites to screen for m6A sites that act as either boosters or barriers to definitive endoderm specification of human embryonic stem cells. We identify 78 sgRNAs enriched in the non-definitive endoderm cells and 137 sgRNAs enriched in the definitive endoderm cells. We successfully validate two definitive endoderm promoting m6A sites on SOX2 and SDHAF1 as well as a definitive endoderm inhibiting m6A site on ADM. Our study provides a functional screening of m6A sites and paves the way for functional studies of m6A at individual m6A site level.
Collapse
|
9
|
Pour M, Kumar AS, Farag N, Bolondi A, Kretzmer H, Walther M, Wittler L, Meissner A, Nachman I. Emergence and patterning dynamics of mouse-definitive endoderm. iScience 2022; 25:103556. [PMID: 34988400 PMCID: PMC8693470 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The segregation of definitive endoderm (DE) from bipotent mesendoderm progenitors leads to the formation of two distinct germ layers. Dissecting DE commitment and onset has been challenging as it occurs within a narrow spatiotemporal window in the embryo. Here, we employ a dual Bra/Sox17 reporter cell line to study DE onset dynamics. We find Sox17 expression initiates in vivo in isolated cells within a temporally restricted window. In 2D and 3D in vitro models, DE cells emerge from mesendoderm progenitors at a temporally regular, but spatially stochastic pattern, which is subsequently arranged by self-sorting of Sox17 + cells. A subpopulation of Bra-high cells commits to a Sox17+ fate independent of external Wnt signal. Self-sorting coincides with upregulation of E-cadherin but is not necessary for DE differentiation or proliferation. Our in vivo and in vitro results highlight basic rules governing DE onset and patterning through the commonalities and differences between these systems. Sox17 onsets in a few isolated cells within Bra-expressing population Sox17 onset followed by expansion and self-sorting Final number of Sox17+ cells does not depend on self-sorting or cell movement The DE segregation pattern is similar in in vivo and in 2D, 3D in vitro systems
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maayan Pour
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Abhishek Sampath Kumar
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Naama Farag
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Adriano Bolondi
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Helene Kretzmer
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Walther
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Meissner
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany.,Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Iftach Nachman
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Stronati E, Giraldez S, Huang L, Abraham E, McGuire GR, Hsu HT, Jones KA, Estarás C. YAP1 regulates the self-organized fate patterning of hESC-derived gastruloids. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:211-220. [PMID: 35063126 PMCID: PMC8828531 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The gastrulation process relies on complex interactions between developmental signaling pathways that are not completely understood. Here, we interrogated the contribution of the Hippo signaling effector YAP1 to the formation of the three germ layers by analyzing human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived 2D-micropatterned gastruloids. YAP1 knockout gastruloids display a reduced ectoderm layer and enlarged mesoderm and endoderm layers compared with wild type. Furthermore, our epigenome and transcriptome analysis revealed that YAP1 attenuates Nodal signaling by directly repressing the chromatin accessibility and transcription of key genes in the Nodal pathway, including the NODAL and FOXH1 genes. Hence, in the absence of YAP1, hyperactive Nodal signaling retains SMAD2/3 in the nuclei, impeding ectoderm differentiation of hESCs. Thus, our work revealed that YAP1 is a master regulator of Nodal signaling, essential for instructing germ layer fate patterning in human gastruloids. YAP1 deletion compromises cell-fate patterning of hESC-derived 2D gastruloids YAP1 is required for ectoderm differentiation in hESCs YAP1 transcriptionally represses Nodal signaling genes during ectoderm induction Reducing Nodal signaling rescues YAP1 knockout gastrulation defects
Collapse
|
11
|
Zeng TB, Pierce N, Liao J, Singh P, Lau K, Zhou W, Szabó PE. EHMT2 suppresses the variation of transcriptional switches in the mouse embryo. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009908. [PMID: 34793451 PMCID: PMC8601470 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
EHMT2 is the main euchromatic H3K9 methyltransferase. Embryos with zygotic, or maternal mutation in the Ehmt2 gene exhibit variable developmental delay. To understand how EHMT2 prevents variable developmental delay we performed RNA sequencing of mutant and somite stage-matched normal embryos at 8.5–9.5 days of gestation. Using four-way comparisons between delayed and normal embryos we clarified what it takes to be normal and what it takes to develop. We identified differentially expressed genes, for example Hox genes that simply reflected the difference in developmental progression of wild type and the delayed mutant uterus-mate embryos. By comparing wild type and zygotic mutant embryos along the same developmental window we detected a role of EHMT2 in suppressing variation in the transcriptional switches. We identified transcription changes where precise switching during development occurred only in the normal but not in the mutant embryo. At the 6-somite stage, gastrulation-specific genes were not precisely switched off in the Ehmt2−/− zygotic mutant embryos, while genes involved in organ growth, connective tissue development, striated muscle development, muscle differentiation, and cartilage development were not precisely switched on. The Ehmt2mat−/+ maternal mutant embryos displayed high transcriptional variation consistent with their variable survival. Variable derepression of transcripts occurred dominantly in the maternally inherited allele. Transcription was normal in the parental haploinsufficient wild type embryos despite their delay, consistent with their good prospects. Global profiling of transposable elements revealed EHMT2 targeted DNA methylation and suppression at LTR repeats, mostly ERVKs. In Ehmt2−/− embryos, transcription over very long distances initiated from such misregulated ‘driver’ ERVK repeats, encompassing a multitude of misexpressed ‘passenger’ repeats. In summary, EHMT2 reduced transcriptional variation of developmental switch genes and developmentally switching repeat elements at the six-somite stage embryos. These findings establish EHMT2 as a suppressor of transcriptional and developmental variation at the transition between gastrulation and organ specification. Developmental variation is the property of normal development, and its regulation is poorly understood. Variable developmental delay is found in embryos that carry mutations of epigenetic modifiers, suggesting a role of chromatin in controlling developmental delay and its variable nature. We analyzed a genetic series of mutations and found that EHMT2 suppresses variation of developmental delay and also suppresses the variation of transcriptional switches at the transition between gastrulation and organ specification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tie-Bo Zeng
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Nicholas Pierce
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Ji Liao
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Purnima Singh
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, City of Hope Cancer Center, Duarte, California, United States of America
| | - Kin Lau
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Core, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Wanding Zhou
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Piroska E. Szabó
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Guglielmi L, Heliot C, Kumar S, Alexandrov Y, Gori I, Papaleonidopoulou F, Barrington C, East P, Economou AD, French PMW, McGinty J, Hill CS. Smad4 controls signaling robustness and morphogenesis by differentially contributing to the Nodal and BMP pathways. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6374. [PMID: 34737283 PMCID: PMC8569018 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26486-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcriptional effector SMAD4 is a core component of the TGF-β family signaling pathways. However, its role in vertebrate embryo development remains unresolved. To address this, we deleted Smad4 in zebrafish and investigated the consequences of this on signaling by the TGF-β family morphogens, BMPs and Nodal. We demonstrate that in the absence of Smad4, dorsal/ventral embryo patterning is disrupted due to the loss of BMP signaling. However, unexpectedly, Nodal signaling is maintained, but lacks robustness. This Smad4-independent Nodal signaling is sufficient for mesoderm specification, but not for optimal endoderm specification. Furthermore, using Optical Projection Tomography in combination with 3D embryo morphometry, we have generated a BMP morphospace and demonstrate that Smad4 mutants are morphologically indistinguishable from embryos in which BMP signaling has been genetically/pharmacologically perturbed. Smad4 is thus differentially required for signaling by different TGF-β family ligands, which has implications for diseases where Smad4 is mutated or deleted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Guglielmi
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Claire Heliot
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Sunil Kumar
- Advanced Light Microscopy, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Yuriy Alexandrov
- Advanced Light Microscopy, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Ilaria Gori
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | | | - Christopher Barrington
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Facility, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Philip East
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Facility, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Andrew D Economou
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Paul M W French
- Department of Physics, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ, London, UK
| | - James McGinty
- Department of Physics, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ, London, UK
| | - Caroline S Hill
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Senft AD, Macfarlan TS. Transposable elements shape the evolution of mammalian development. Nat Rev Genet 2021; 22:691-711. [PMID: 34354263 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-021-00385-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) promote genetic innovation but also threaten genome stability. Despite multiple layers of host defence, TEs actively shape mammalian-specific developmental processes, particularly during pre-implantation and extra-embryonic development and at the maternal-fetal interface. Here, we review how TEs influence mammalian genomes both directly by providing the raw material for genetic change and indirectly via co-evolving TE-binding Krüppel-associated box zinc finger proteins (KRAB-ZFPs). Throughout mammalian evolution, individual activities of ancient TEs were co-opted to enable invasive placentation that characterizes live-born mammals. By contrast, the widespread activity of evolutionarily young TEs may reflect an ongoing co-evolution that continues to impact mammalian development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna D Senft
- The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Todd S Macfarlan
- The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yan L, Rodríguez-delaRosa A, Pourquié O. Human muscle production in vitro from pluripotent stem cells: Basic and clinical applications. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 119:39-48. [PMID: 33941447 PMCID: PMC8530835 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), which have the capacity to self-renew and differentiate into multiple cell types, offer tremendous therapeutic potential and invaluable flexibility as research tools. Recently, remarkable progress has been made in directing myogenic differentiation of human PSCs. The differentiation strategies, which were inspired by our knowledge of myogenesis in vivo, have provided an important platform for the study of human muscle development and modeling of muscular diseases, as well as a promising source of cells for cell therapy to treat muscular dystrophies. In this review, we summarize the current state of skeletal muscle generation from human PSCs, including transgene-based and transgene-free differentiation protocols, and 3D muscle tissue production through bioengineering approaches. We also highlight their basic and clinical applications, which facilitate the study of human muscle biology and deliver new hope for muscular disease treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yan
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alejandra Rodríguez-delaRosa
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Olivier Pourquié
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ajima R, Sakakibara Y, Sakurai-Yamatani N, Muraoka M, Saga Y. Formal proof of the requirement of MESP1 and MESP2 in mesoderm specification and their transcriptional control via specific enhancers in mice. Development 2021; 148:272544. [PMID: 34679163 DOI: 10.1242/dev.194613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
MESP1 and MESP2 are transcriptional factors involved in mesoderm specification, somite boundary formation and somite polarity regulation. However, Mesp quadruple mutant zebrafish displayed only abnormal somite polarity without mesoderm specification defects. In order to re-evaluate Mesp1/Mesp2 mutants in mice, Mesp1 and Mesp2 single knockouts (KOs), and a Mesp1/Mesp2 double KO were established using genome-editing techniques without introducing selection markers commonly used before. The Mesp1/Mesp2 double KO embryos exhibited markedly severe mesoderm formation defects that were similar to the previously reported Mesp1/Mesp2 double KO embryos, indicating species differences in the function of MESP family proteins. However, the Mesp1 KO did not display any phenotype, including heart formation defects, which have been reported previously. We noted upregulation of Mesp2 in the Mesp1 KO embryos, suggesting that MESP2 rescues the loss of MESP1 in mesoderm specification. We also found that Mesp1 and Mesp2 expression in the early mesoderm is regulated by the cooperation of two independent enhancers containing T-box- and TCF/Lef-binding sites. Deletion of both enhancers caused the downregulation of both genes, resulting in heart formation defects. This study suggests dose-dependent roles of MESP1 and MESP2 in early mesoderm formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rieko Ajima
- Mammalian Development Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Division for Development of Genetic-engineered Mouse Resource, Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Yuko Sakakibara
- Division for Development of Genetic-engineered Mouse Resource, Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Noriko Sakurai-Yamatani
- Division for Development of Genetic-engineered Mouse Resource, Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Masafumi Muraoka
- Mammalian Development Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Yumiko Saga
- Mammalian Development Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Division for Development of Genetic-engineered Mouse Resource, Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sozen B, Cornwall-Scoones J, Zernicka-Goetz M. The dynamics of morphogenesis in stem cell-based embryology: Novel insights for symmetry breaking. Dev Biol 2021; 474:82-90. [PMID: 33333067 PMCID: PMC8259461 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Breaking embryonic symmetry is an essential prerequisite to shape the initially symmetric embryo into a highly organized body plan that serves as the blueprint of the adult organism. This critical process is driven by morphogen signaling gradients that instruct anteroposterior axis specification. Despite its fundamental importance, what triggers symmetry breaking and how the signaling gradients are established in time and space in the mammalian embryo remain largely unknown. Stem cell-based in vitro models of embryogenesis offer an unprecedented opportunity to quantitatively dissect the multiple physical and molecular processes that shape the mammalian embryo. Here we review biochemical mechanisms governing early mammalian patterning in vivo and highlight recent advances to recreate this in vitro using stem cells. We discuss how the novel insights from these model systems extend previously proposed concepts to illuminate the extent to which embryonic cells have the intrinsic capability to generate specific, reproducible patterns during embryogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Berna Sozen
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Genetics, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
| | - Jake Cornwall-Scoones
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA; Developmental Dynamics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA; Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hayes K, Kim YK, Pera MF. A case for revisiting Nodal signaling in human pluripotent stem cells. STEM CELLS (DAYTON, OHIO) 2021; 39:1137-1144. [PMID: 33932319 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Nodal is a transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily member that plays a number of critical roles in mammalian embryonic development. Nodal is essential for the support of the peri-implantation epiblast in the mouse embryo and subsequently acts to specify mesendodermal fate at the time of gastrulation and, later, left-right asymmetry. Maintenance of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) in vitro is dependent on Nodal signaling. Because it has proven difficult to prepare a biologically active form of recombinant Nodal protein, Activin or TGFB1 are widely used as surrogates for NODAL in hPSC culture. Nonetheless, the expression of the components of an endogenous Nodal signaling pathway in hPSC provides a potential autocrine pathway for the regulation of self-renewal in this system. Here we review recent studies that have clarified the role of Nodal signaling in pluripotent stem cell populations, highlighted spatial restrictions on Nodal signaling, and shown that Nodal functions in vivo as a heterodimer with GDF3, another TGF-β superfamily member expressed by hPSC. We discuss the role of this pathway in the maintenance of the epiblast and hPSC in light of these new advances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Hayes
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
| | - Yun-Kyo Kim
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dinh TTH, Iseki H, Mizuno S, Iijima-Mizuno S, Tanimoto Y, Daitoku Y, Kato K, Hamada Y, Hasan ASH, Suzuki H, Murata K, Muratani M, Ema M, Kim JD, Ishida J, Fukamizu A, Kato M, Takahashi S, Yagami KI, Wilson V, Arkell RM, Sugiyama F. Disruption of entire Cables2 locus leads to embryonic lethality by diminished Rps21 gene expression and enhanced p53 pathway. eLife 2021; 10:50346. [PMID: 33949947 PMCID: PMC8099427 DOI: 10.7554/elife.50346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo function of CDK5 and Abl enzyme substrate 2 (Cables2), belonging to the Cables protein family, is unknown. Here, we found that targeted disruption of the entire Cables2 locus (Cables2d) caused growth retardation and enhanced apoptosis at the gastrulation stage and then induced embryonic lethality in mice. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed disruption of Cables2, 50% down-regulation of Rps21 abutting on the Cables2 locus, and up-regulation of p53-target genes in Cables2d gastrulas. We further revealed the lethality phenotype in Rps21-deleted mice and unexpectedly, the exon 1-deleted Cables2 mice survived. Interestingly, chimeric mice derived from Cables2d ESCs carrying exogenous Cables2 and tetraploid wild-type embryo overcame gastrulation. These results suggest that the diminished expression of Rps21 and the completed lack of Cables2 expression are intricately involved in the embryonic lethality via the p53 pathway. This study sheds light on the importance of Cables2 locus in mouse embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tra Thi Huong Dinh
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors (SIGMA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Department of Traditional Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.,Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hiroyoshi Iseki
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Seiya Mizuno
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Saori Iijima-Mizuno
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Experimental Animal Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yoko Tanimoto
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yoko Daitoku
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Kanako Kato
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yuko Hamada
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ammar Shaker Hamed Hasan
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Doctor's Program in Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hayate Suzuki
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Doctor's Program in Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Kazuya Murata
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Masafumi Muratani
- Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Department of Genome Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Ema
- Department of Stem Cells and Human Disease Models, Research Center for Animal Life Science, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan.,Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jun-Dal Kim
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Division of Complex Bioscience Research, Department of Research and Development, Institute of National Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Junji Ishida
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Fukamizu
- Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Mitsuyasu Kato
- Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Department of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of. Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Yagami
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Valerie Wilson
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, SCRM Building, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth M Arkell
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Fumihiro Sugiyama
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu L, Warmflash A. Self-organized signaling in stem cell models of embryos. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1065-1077. [PMID: 33979594 PMCID: PMC8185436 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian embryonic development is a complex process driven by self-organization. Understanding how a fertilized egg develops into an embryo composed of more than 200 cell types in precise spatial patterns remains one of the fundamental challenges in biology. Pluripotent stem cells have been used as in vitro models for investigating mammalian development, and represent promising building blocks for regenerative therapies. Recently, sophisticated stem cell-based models that recapitulate early embryonic fate patterning and morphogenesis have been developed. In this article, we review recent advances in stem cell models of embryos in particular focusing on signaling activities underpinning cell fate decisions in space and time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lizhong Liu
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Frum T, Spence JR. hPSC-derived organoids: models of human development and disease. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:463-473. [PMID: 32857169 PMCID: PMC7914270 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01969-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have emerged as important models for investigating human-specific aspects of development and disease. Here we discuss hPSC-derived organoids through the lens of development-highlighting how stages of human development align with the development of hPSC-derived organoids in the tissue culture dish. Using hPSC-derived lung and intestinal organoids as examples, we discuss the value and application of such systems for understanding human biology, as well as strategies for enhancing organoid complexity and maturity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Frum
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jason R Spence
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan College of Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Figiel DM, Elsayed R, Nelson AC. Investigating the molecular guts of endoderm formation using zebrafish. Brief Funct Genomics 2021:elab013. [PMID: 33754635 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elab013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The vertebrate endoderm makes major contributions to the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts and all associated organs. Zebrafish and humans share a high degree of genetic homology and strikingly similar endodermal organ systems. Combined with a multitude of experimental advantages, zebrafish are an attractive model organism to study endoderm development and disease. Recent functional genomics studies have shed considerable light on the gene regulatory programs governing early zebrafish endoderm development, while advances in biological and technological approaches stand to further revolutionize our ability to investigate endoderm formation, function and disease. Here, we discuss the present understanding of endoderm specification in zebrafish compared to other vertebrates, how current and emerging methods will allow refined and enhanced analysis of endoderm formation, and how integration with human data will allow modeling of the link between non-coding sequence variants and human disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela M Figiel
- Medical Research Council Doctoral Training Partnership in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research at Warwick Medical School
| | - Randa Elsayed
- Medical Research Council Doctoral Training Partnership in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research at Warwick Medical School
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling family is evolutionarily conserved in metazoans. The signal transduction mechanisms of TGFβ family members have been expansively investigated and are well understood. During development and homeostasis, numerous TGFβ family members are expressed in various cell types with temporally changing levels, playing diverse roles in embryonic development, adult tissue homeostasis and human diseases by regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration and apoptosis. Here, we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying signal transduction and regulation of the TGFβ subfamily pathways, and then highlight their key functions in mesendoderm induction, dorsoventral patterning and laterality development, as well as in the formation of several representative tissues/organs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shunji Jia
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Anming Meng
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kinoshita M, Barber M, Mansfield W, Cui Y, Spindlow D, Stirparo GG, Dietmann S, Nichols J, Smith A. Capture of Mouse and Human Stem Cells with Features of Formative Pluripotency. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:453-471.e8. [PMID: 33271069 PMCID: PMC7939546 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pluripotent cells emerge as a naive founder population in the blastocyst, acquire capacity for germline and soma formation, and then undergo lineage priming. Mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and epiblast-derived stem cells (EpiSCs) represent the initial naive and final primed phases of pluripotency, respectively. Here, we investigate the intermediate formative stage. Using minimal exposure to specification cues, we derive stem cells from formative mouse epiblast. Unlike ESCs or EpiSCs, formative stem (FS) cells respond directly to germ cell induction. They colonize somatic tissues and germline in chimeras. Whole-transcriptome analyses show similarity to pre-gastrulation formative epiblast. Signal responsiveness and chromatin accessibility features reflect lineage capacitation. Furthermore, FS cells show distinct transcription factor dependencies, relying critically on Otx2. Finally, FS cell culture conditions applied to human naive cells or embryos support expansion of similar stem cells, consistent with a conserved staging post on the trajectory of mammalian pluripotency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Kinoshita
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK.
| | - Michael Barber
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - William Mansfield
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Yingzhi Cui
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Daniel Spindlow
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Giuliano Giuseppe Stirparo
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Sabine Dietmann
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Jennifer Nichols
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Austin Smith
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Diaz‐Cuadros M, Pourquie O. In vitro systems: A new window to the segmentation clock. Dev Growth Differ 2021; 63:140-153. [PMID: 33460448 PMCID: PMC8048467 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Segmental organization of the vertebrate body plan is established by the segmentation clock, a molecular oscillator that controls the periodicity of somite formation. Given the dynamic nature of the segmentation clock, in vivo studies in vertebrate embryos pose technical challenges. As an alternative, simpler models of the segmentation clock based on primary explants and pluripotent stem cells have recently been developed. These ex vivo and in vitro systems enable more quantitative analysis of oscillatory properties and expand the experimental repertoire applicable to the segmentation clock. Crucially, by eliminating the need for model organisms, in vitro models allow us to study the segmentation clock in new species, including our own. The human oscillator was recently recapitulated using induced pluripotent stem cells, providing a window into human development. Certainly, a combination of in vivo and in vitro work holds the most promising potential to unravel the mechanisms behind vertebrate segmentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarete Diaz‐Cuadros
- Department of GeneticsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of PathologyBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Olivier Pourquie
- Department of GeneticsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of PathologyBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Stem Cell InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tani S, Okada H, Chung UI, Ohba S, Hojo H. The Progress of Stem Cell Technology for Skeletal Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1404. [PMID: 33573345 PMCID: PMC7866793 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal disorders, such as osteoarthritis and bone fractures, are among the major conditions that can compromise the quality of daily life of elderly individuals. To treat them, regenerative therapies using skeletal cells have been an attractive choice for patients with unmet clinical needs. Currently, there are two major strategies to prepare the cell sources. The first is to use induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) or embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which can recapitulate the skeletal developmental process and differentiate into various skeletal cells. Skeletal tissues are derived from three distinct origins: the neural crest, paraxial mesoderm, and lateral plate mesoderm. Thus, various protocols have been proposed to recapitulate the sequential process of skeletal development. The second strategy is to extract stem cells from skeletal tissues. In addition to mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), multiple cell types have been identified as alternative cell sources. These cells have distinct multipotent properties allowing them to differentiate into skeletal cells and various potential applications for skeletal regeneration. In this review, we summarize state-of-the-art research in stem cell differentiation based on the understanding of embryogenic skeletal development and stem cells existing in skeletal tissues. We then discuss the potential applications of these cell types for regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shoichiro Tani
- Sensory & Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan; (S.T.); (H.O.)
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan;
| | - Hiroyuki Okada
- Sensory & Motor System Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan; (S.T.); (H.O.)
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan;
| | - Ung-il Chung
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan;
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Ohba
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8588, Japan;
| | - Hironori Hojo
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan;
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Probst S, Sagar, Tosic J, Schwan C, Grün D, Arnold SJ. Spatiotemporal sequence of mesoderm and endoderm lineage segregation during mouse gastrulation. Development 2021; 148:dev.193789. [PMID: 33199445 DOI: 10.1242/dev.193789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Anterior mesoderm (AM) and definitive endoderm (DE) progenitors represent the earliest embryonic cell types that are specified during germ layer formation at the primitive streak (PS) of the mouse embryo. Genetic experiments indicate that both lineages segregate from Eomes-expressing progenitors in response to different Nodal signaling levels. However, the precise spatiotemporal pattern of the emergence of these cell types and molecular details of lineage segregation remain unexplored. We combined genetic fate labeling and imaging approaches with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to follow the transcriptional identities and define lineage trajectories of Eomes-dependent cell types. Accordingly, all cells moving through the PS during the first day of gastrulation express Eomes AM and DE specification occurs before cells leave the PS from Eomes-positive progenitors in a distinct spatiotemporal pattern. ScRNA-seq analysis further suggested the immediate and complete separation of AM and DE lineages from Eomes-expressing cells as last common bipotential progenitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Probst
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 25, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany .,Signaling Research Centers BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestrasse18, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sagar
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stübeweg 51, D-79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jelena Tosic
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 25, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany.,Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 19a, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestrasse 1, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Schwan
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 25, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominic Grün
- Signaling Research Centers BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestrasse18, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany.,Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stübeweg 51, D-79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian J Arnold
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 25, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany .,Signaling Research Centers BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestrasse18, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Hayashi K. In vitro reconstitution of germ cell development†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:567-578. [PMID: 31295346 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell development is a series of highly specialized processes through which diploid pluripotent cells differentiate into haploid gametes. The processes include biologically important events such as epigenetic reprogramming, sex determination, and meiosis. The mechanisms underlying these events are key issues in reproductive and developmental biology, yet they still remain elusive. As a tool to elucidate these mechanisms, in vitro gametogenesis, which reproduces germ cell development in culture, has long been sought for decades. Recently, methods of in vitro gametogenesis have undergone rapid development in association with stem cell biology, opening many possibilities in this field. This new technology is considered an alternative source of gametes for the reproduction of animals and perhaps humans. This review summarizes current advances and problems in in vitro gametogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Hong M, Christ A, Christa A, Willnow TE, Krauss RS. Cdon mutation and fetal alcohol converge on Nodal signaling in a mouse model of holoprosencephaly. eLife 2020; 9:60351. [PMID: 32876567 PMCID: PMC7467722 DOI: 10.7554/elife.60351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Holoprosencephaly (HPE), a defect in midline patterning of the forebrain and midface, arises ~1 in 250 conceptions. It is associated with predisposing mutations in the Nodal and Hedgehog (HH) pathways, with penetrance and expressivity graded by genetic and environmental modifiers, via poorly understood mechanisms. CDON is a multifunctional co-receptor, including for the HH pathway. In mice, Cdon mutation synergizes with fetal alcohol exposure, producing HPE phenotypes closely resembling those seen in humans. We report here that, unexpectedly, Nodal signaling is a major point of synergistic interaction between Cdon mutation and fetal alcohol. Window-of-sensitivity, genetic, and in vitro findings are consistent with a model whereby brief exposure of Cdon mutant embryos to ethanol during gastrulation transiently and partially inhibits Nodal pathway activity, with consequent effects on midline patterning. These results illuminate mechanisms of gene-environment interaction in a multifactorial model of a common birth defect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingi Hong
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, United States
| | - Annabel Christ
- Max-Delbruck-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Christa
- Max-Delbruck-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Robert S Krauss
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Spatiotemporal control of gene expression during development requires orchestrated activities of numerous enhancers, which are cis-regulatory DNA sequences that, when bound by transcription factors, support selective activation or repression of associated genes. Proper activation of enhancers is critical during embryonic development, adult tissue homeostasis, and regeneration, and inappropriate enhancer activity is often associated with pathological conditions such as cancer. Multiple consortia [e.g., the Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) Consortium and National Institutes of Health Roadmap Epigenomics Mapping Consortium] and independent investigators have mapped putative regulatory regions in a large number of cell types and tissues, but the sequence determinants of cell-specific enhancers are not yet fully understood. Machine learning approaches trained on large sets of these regulatory regions can identify core transcription factor binding sites and generate quantitative predictions of enhancer activity and the impact of sequence variants on activity. Here, we review these computational methods in the context of enhancer prediction and gene regulatory network models specifying cell fate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Beer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA;
| | - Dustin Shigaki
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA;
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Understanding paraxial mesoderm development and sclerotome specification for skeletal repair. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:1166-1177. [PMID: 32788657 PMCID: PMC8080658 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0482-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are attractive regenerative therapy tools for skeletal tissues. However, a deep understanding of skeletal development is required in order to model this development with PSCs, and for the application of PSCs in clinical settings. Skeletal tissues originate from three types of cell populations: the paraxial mesoderm, lateral plate mesoderm, and neural crest. The paraxial mesoderm gives rise to the sclerotome mainly through somitogenesis. In this process, key developmental processes, including initiation of the segmentation clock, formation of the determination front, and the mesenchymal–epithelial transition, are sequentially coordinated. The sclerotome further forms vertebral columns and contributes to various other tissues, such as tendons, vessels (including the dorsal aorta), and even meninges. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying these developmental processes, extensive studies have been conducted. These studies have demonstrated that a gradient of activities involving multiple signaling pathways specify the embryonic axis and induce cell-type-specific master transcription factors in a spatiotemporal manner. Moreover, applying the knowledge of mesoderm development, researchers have attempted to recapitulate the in vivo development processes in in vitro settings, using mouse and human PSCs. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art understanding of mesoderm development and in vitro modeling of mesoderm development using PSCs. We also discuss future perspectives on the use of PSCs to generate skeletal tissues for basic research and clinical applications. A deeper understanding of skeletal tissue development and improvements in tissue engineering will help pluripotent stem cell (PSC) therapies to reach their full potential for skeletal repair. The paraxial mesoderm, an embryonic germ layer, is crucial to the formation of healthy axial skeleton. Shoichiro Tani at the University of Tokyo, Japan, and co-workers reviewed current understanding of paraxial mesoderm development and studies involving in vitro PSC skeletal modeling. The formation of the paraxial mesoderm and associated connective tissues comprises multiple stages, and studies in vertebrate embryos have uncovered critical signaling pathways and cellular components important to PSC modeling. Although many individual cellular components can now be modeled, it remains challenging to recreate three-dimensional skeletal tissues. Such an achievement would facilitate a functioning model of bone metabolism, the next step in achieving skeletal regeneration.
Collapse
|
31
|
Luo X, van der Veer BK, Sun L, Bartoccetti M, Boretto M, Vankelecom H, Khoueiry R, Koh KP. Coordination of germ layer lineage choice by TET1 during primed pluripotency. Genes Dev 2020; 34:598-618. [PMID: 32115407 PMCID: PMC7111260 DOI: 10.1101/gad.329474.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Here, Luo et al. show how the DNA dioxygenase Tet1 plays a pivotal role upstream of germ layer lineage bifurcation. A permissive role for Tet1 in neural fate induction is identified, and involves Zic2-dependent engagement at neural target genes at lineage priming, is dependent on the signaling environment during gastrulation, and impacts neural tube closure after gastrulation. Gastrulation in the early postimplantation stage mammalian embryo begins when epiblast cells ingress to form the primitive streak or develop as the embryonic ectoderm. The DNA dioxygenase Tet1 is highly expressed in the epiblast and yet continues to regulate lineage specification during gastrulation when its expression is diminished. Here, we show how Tet1 plays a pivotal role upstream of germ layer lineage bifurcation. During the transition from naive pluripotency to lineage priming, a global reconfiguration redistributes Tet1 from Oct4-cobound promoters to distal regulatory elements at lineage differentiation genes, which are distinct from high-affinity sites engaged by Oct4. An altered chromatin landscape in Tet1-deficient primed epiblast-like cells is associated with enhanced Oct4 expression and binding to Nodal and Wnt target genes, resulting in collaborative signals that enhance mesendodermal and inhibit neuroectodermal gene expression during lineage segregation. A permissive role for Tet1 in neural fate induction involves Zic2-dependent engagement at neural target genes at lineage priming, is dependent on the signaling environment during gastrulation, and impacts neural tube closure after gastrulation. Our findings provide mechanistic information for epigenetic integration of pluripotency and signal-induced differentiation cues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinlong Luo
- Laboratory for Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bernard K van der Veer
- Laboratory for Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lei Sun
- Laboratory for Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michela Bartoccetti
- Laboratory for Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Matteo Boretto
- Laboratory of Tissue Plasticity in Health and Disease, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hugo Vankelecom
- Laboratory of Tissue Plasticity in Health and Disease, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rita Khoueiry
- Laboratory for Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kian Peng Koh
- Laboratory for Stem Cell and Developmental Epigenetics, Department of Development and Regeneration, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Camacho-Aguilar E, Warmflash A. Insights into mammalian morphogen dynamics from embryonic stem cell systems. Curr Top Dev Biol 2020; 137:279-305. [PMID: 32143746 PMCID: PMC7713707 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Morphogens play an essential role in cell fate specification and patterning including in laying out the mammalian body plan during gastrulation. In vivo studies have shed light on the signaling pathways involved in this process and the phenotypes associated with their disruption, however, several important open questions remain regarding how morphogens function in space and time. Self-organized patterning systems based on embryonic stem cells have emerged as a powerful platform for beginning to address these questions that is complementary to in vivo approaches. Here we review recent progress in understanding morphogen signaling dynamics and patterning in early mammalian development by taking advantage of cutting-edge embryonic stem cell technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Senft AD, Costello I, King HW, Mould AW, Bikoff EK, Robertson EJ. Combinatorial Smad2/3 Activities Downstream of Nodal Signaling Maintain Embryonic/Extra-Embryonic Cell Identities during Lineage Priming. Cell Rep 2020; 24:1977-1985.e7. [PMID: 30134160 PMCID: PMC6113931 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.07.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Epiblast cells in the early post-implantation stage mammalian embryo undergo a transition described as lineage priming before cell fate allocation, but signaling pathways acting upstream remain ill defined. Genetic studies demonstrate that Smad2/3 double-mutant mouse embryos die shortly after implantation. To learn more about the molecular disturbances underlying this abrupt failure, here we characterized Smad2/3-deficient embryonic stem cells (ESCs). We found that Smad2/3 double-knockout ESCs induced to form epiblast-like cells (EpiLCs) display changes in naive and primed pluripotency marker gene expression, associated with the disruption of Oct4-bound distal regulatory elements. In the absence of Smad2/3, we observed enhanced Bmp target gene expression and de-repression of extra-embryonic gene expression. Cell fate allocation into all three embryonic germ layers is disrupted. Collectively, these experiments demonstrate that combinatorial Smad2/3 functional activities are required to maintain distinct embryonic and/or extra-embryonic cell identity during lineage priming in the epiblast before gastrulation. Smad2/3 alters the transcriptome and activity of distal regulatory elements in EpiLCs Smad2 prevents expression of extra-embryonic genes during priming and differentiation Smad2/3 is essential for mesoderm and definitive endoderm cell fate allocation Smad2/3 signaling balances Bmp signaling during neural precursor differentiation
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna D Senft
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Ita Costello
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Hamish W King
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Arne W Mould
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Elizabeth K Bikoff
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
|
35
|
HAMADA H. Molecular and cellular basis of left-right asymmetry in vertebrates. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2020; 96:273-296. [PMID: 32788551 PMCID: PMC7443379 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.96.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Although the human body appears superficially symmetrical with regard to the left-right (L-R) axis, most visceral organs are asymmetric in terms of their size, shape, or position. Such morphological asymmetries of visceral organs, which are essential for their proper function, are under the control of a genetic pathway that operates in the developing embryo. In many vertebrates including mammals, the breaking of L-R symmetry occurs at a structure known as the L-R organizer (LRO) located at the midline of the developing embryo. This symmetry breaking is followed by transfer of an active form of the signaling molecule Nodal from the LRO to the lateral plate mesoderm (LPM) on the left side, which results in asymmetric expression of Nodal (a left-side determinant) in the left LPM. Finally, L-R asymmetric morphogenesis of visceral organs is induced by Nodal-Pitx2 signaling. This review will describe our current understanding of the mechanisms that underlie the generation of L-R asymmetry in vertebrates, with a focus on mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi HAMADA
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- Correspondence should be addressed: H. Hamada, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan (e-mail: )
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Molè MA, Weberling A, Zernicka-Goetz M. Comparative analysis of human and mouse development: From zygote to pre-gastrulation. Curr Top Dev Biol 2019; 136:113-138. [PMID: 31959285 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Development of the mammalian embryo begins with formation of the totipotent zygote during fertilization. This initial cell is able to give rise to every embryonic tissue of the developing organism as well as all extra-embryonic lineages, such as the placenta and the yolk sac, which are essential for the initial patterning and support growth of the fetus until birth. As the embryo transits from pre- to post-implantation, major structural and transcriptional changes occur within the embryonic lineage to set up the basis for the subsequent phase of gastrulation. Fine-tuned coordination of cell division, morphogenesis and differentiation is essential to ultimately promote assembly of the future fetus. Here, we review the current knowledge of mammalian development of both mouse and human focusing on morphogenetic processes leading to the onset of gastrulation, when the embryonic anterior-posterior axis becomes established and the three germ layers start to be specified.
Collapse
|
37
|
Sun C, Serra C, Lee G, Wagner KR. Stem cell-based therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Exp Neurol 2019; 323:113086. [PMID: 31639376 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Muscular dystrophies are a group of genetic muscle disorders that cause progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. Within this group, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common and one of the most severe. DMD is an X chromosome linked disease that occurs to 1 in 3500 to 1 in 5000 boys. The cause of DMD is a mutation in the dystrophin gene, whose encoded protein provides both structural support and cell signaling capabilities. So far, there are very limited therapeutic options available and there is no cure for this disease. In this review, we discuss the existing cell therapy research, especially stem cell-based, which utilize myoblasts, satellite cells, bone marrow cells, mesoangioblasts and CD133+ cells. Finally, we focus on human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) which hold great potential in treating DMD. hPSCs can be used for autologous transplantation after being specified to a myogenic lineage. Over the last few years, there has been a rapid development of isolation, as well as differentiation, techniques in order to achieve effective transplantation results of myogenic cells specified from hPSCs. In this review, we summarize the current methods of hPSCs myogenic commitment/differentiation, and describe the current status of hPSC-derived myogenic cell transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Congshan Sun
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA; Center for Genetic Muscle Disorders, Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Carlo Serra
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA; Center for Genetic Muscle Disorders, Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Gabsang Lee
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kathryn R Wagner
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA; Center for Genetic Muscle Disorders, Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Chhabra S, Liu L, Goh R, Kong X, Warmflash A. Dissecting the dynamics of signaling events in the BMP, WNT, and NODAL cascade during self-organized fate patterning in human gastruloids. PLoS Biol 2019; 17:e3000498. [PMID: 31613879 PMCID: PMC6814242 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
During gastrulation, the pluripotent epiblast self-organizes into the 3 germ layers-endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm, which eventually form the entire embryo. Decades of research in the mouse embryo have revealed that a signaling cascade involving the Bone Morphogenic Protein (BMP), WNT, and NODAL pathways is necessary for gastrulation. In vivo, WNT and NODAL ligands are expressed near the site of gastrulation in the posterior of the embryo, and knockout of these ligands leads to a failure to gastrulate. These data have led to the prevailing view that a signaling gradient in WNT and NODAL underlies patterning during gastrulation; however, the activities of these pathways in space and time have never been directly observed. In this study, we quantify BMP, WNT, and NODAL signaling dynamics in an in vitro model of human gastrulation. Our data suggest that BMP signaling initiates waves of WNT and NODAL signaling activity that move toward the colony center at a constant rate. Using a simple mathematical model, we show that this wave-like behavior is inconsistent with a reaction-diffusion-based Turing system, indicating that there is no stable signaling gradient of WNT/NODAL. Instead, the final signaling state is homogeneous, and spatial differences arise only from boundary effects. We further show that the durations of WNT and NODAL signaling control mesoderm differentiation, while the duration of BMP signaling controls differentiation of CDX2-positive extra-embryonic cells. The identity of these extra-embryonic cells has been controversial, and we use RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to obtain their transcriptomes and show that they closely resemble human trophoblast cells in vivo. The domain of BMP signaling is identical to the domain of differentiation of these trophoblast-like cells; however, neither WNT nor NODAL forms a spatial pattern that maps directly to the mesodermal region, suggesting that mesoderm differentiation is controlled dynamically by the combinatorial effect of multiple signals. We synthesize our data into a mathematical model that accurately recapitulates signaling dynamics and predicts cell fate patterning upon chemical and physical perturbations. Taken together, our study shows that the dynamics of signaling events in the BMP, WNT, and NODAL cascade in the absence of a stable signaling gradient control fate patterning of human gastruloids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Chhabra
- Systems, Synthetic and Physical Biology, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lizhong Liu
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ryan Goh
- Department of Mathematics, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Xiangyu Kong
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Luo M, Bai J, Liu B, Yan P, Zuo F, Sun H, Sun Y, Xu X, Song Z, Yang Y, Massagué J, Lan X, Lu Z, Chen YG, Deng H, Xie W, Xi Q. H3K18ac Primes Mesendodermal Differentiation upon Nodal Signaling. Stem Cell Reports 2019; 13:642-656. [PMID: 31564646 PMCID: PMC6830056 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2019.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular responses to transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) depend on cell context. Here, we explored how TGF-β/nodal signaling crosstalks with the epigenome to promote mesendodermal differentiation. We find that expression of a group of mesendodermal genes depends on both TRIM33 and nodal signaling in embryoid bodies (EBs) but not in embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Only in EBs, TRIM33 binds these genes in the presence of expanded H3K18ac marks. Furthermore, the H3K18ac landscape at mesendodermal genes promotes TRIM33 recruitment. We reveal that HDAC1 binds to active gene promoters and interferes with TRIM33 recruitment to mesendodermal gene promoters. However, the TRIM33-interacting protein p300 deposits H3K18ac and further enhances TRIM33 recruitment. ATAC-seq data demonstrate that TRIM33 primes mesendodermal genes for activation by maintaining chromatin accessibility at their regulatory regions. Altogether, our study suggests that HDAC1 and p300 are key factors linking the epigenome through TRIM33 to the cell context-dependent nodal response during mesendodermal differentiation. The H3K18ac landscape changes at gene promoters during mesendodermal differentiation Histone acetylation facilitates TRIM33 recruitment to the chromatin HDAC1 and p300 are the key factors for nodal signaling crosstalk with epigenome Chromatin accessibility at mesendodermal genes depends on TRIM33
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maoguo Luo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jianbo Bai
- Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Bofeng Liu
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, THU-PKU Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Peiqiang Yan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Feifei Zuo
- Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Hongyao Sun
- Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ye Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xuanhao Xu
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhihong Song
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Joan Massagué
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Xun Lan
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhi Lu
- Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics and the Center of Biomedical Analysis, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ye-Guang Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Haiteng Deng
- Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics and the Center of Biomedical Analysis, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, THU-PKU Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Qiaoran Xi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Genome-scale screens identify JNK-JUN signaling as a barrier for pluripotency exit and endoderm differentiation. Nat Genet 2019; 51:999-1010. [PMID: 31110351 PMCID: PMC6545159 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-019-0408-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (hESCs/hiPSCs) hold great promise for cell-based therapies and drug discovery. However, homogeneous differentiation remains a major challenge, highlighting the need for understanding developmental mechanisms. We performed genome-scale CRISPR screens to uncover regulators of definitive endoderm (DE) differentiation, which unexpectedly uncovered five JNK/JUN family genes as key barriers of DE differentiation. The JNK/JUN pathway does not act through directly inhibiting the DE enhancers. Instead JUN co-occupies ESC enhancers with OCT4, NANOG and SMAD2/3, and specifically inhibits the exit from the pluripotent state by impeding the decommissioning of ESC enhancers and inhibiting the reconfiguration of SMAD2/3 chromatin binding from ESC to DE enhancers. Therefore, the JNK/JUN pathway safeguards pluripotency from precocious DE differentiation. Direct pharmacological inhibition of JNK significantly improves the efficiencies of generating DE and DE-derived pancreatic and lung progenitor cells, highlighting the potential of harnessing the knowledge from developmental studies for regenerative medicine.
Collapse
|
41
|
Senft AD, Bikoff EK, Robertson EJ, Costello I. Genetic dissection of Nodal and Bmp signalling requirements during primordial germ cell development in mouse. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1089. [PMID: 30842446 PMCID: PMC6403387 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09052-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The essential roles played by Nodal and Bmp signalling during early mouse development have been extensively documented. Here we use conditional deletion strategies to investigate functional contributions made by Nodal, Bmp and Smad downstream effectors during primordial germ cell (PGC) development. We demonstrate that Nodal and its target gene Eomes provide early instructions during formation of the PGC lineage. We discover that Smad2 inactivation in the visceral endoderm results in increased numbers of PGCs due to an expansion of the PGC niche. Smad1 is required for specification, whereas in contrast Smad4 controls the maintenance and migration of PGCs. Additionally we find that beside Blimp1, down-regulated phospho-Smad159 levels also distinguishes PGCs from their somatic neighbours so that emerging PGCs become refractory to Bmp signalling that otherwise promotes mesodermal development in the posterior epiblast. Thus balanced Nodal/Bmp signalling cues regulate germ cell versus somatic cell fate decisions in the early posterior epiblast.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna D Senft
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Elizabeth K Bikoff
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| | | | - Ita Costello
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Cheng S, Pei Y, He L, Peng G, Reinius B, Tam PP, Jing N, Deng Q. Single-Cell RNA-Seq Reveals Cellular Heterogeneity of Pluripotency Transition and X Chromosome Dynamics during Early Mouse Development. Cell Rep 2019; 26:2593-2607.e3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
|
43
|
Zhang S, Chen T, Chen N, Gao D, Shi B, Kong S, West RC, Yuan Y, Zhi M, Wei Q, Xiang J, Mu H, Yue L, Lei X, Wang X, Zhong L, Liang H, Cao S, Belmonte JCI, Wang H, Han J. Implantation initiation of self-assembled embryo-like structures generated using three types of mouse blastocyst-derived stem cells. Nat Commun 2019; 10:496. [PMID: 30700702 PMCID: PMC6353907 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08378-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Spatially ordered embryo-like structures self-assembled from blastocyst-derived stem cells can be generated to mimic embryogenesis in vitro. However, the assembly system and developmental potential of such structures needs to be further studied. Here, we devise a nonadherent-suspension-shaking system to generate self-assembled embryo-like structures (ETX-embryoids) using mouse embryonic, trophoblast and extra-embryonic endoderm stem cells. When cultured together, the three cell types aggregate and sort into lineage-specific compartments. Signaling among these compartments results in molecular and morphogenic events that closely mimic those observed in wild-type embryos. These ETX-embryoids exhibit lumenogenesis, asymmetric patterns of gene expression for markers of mesoderm and primordial germ cell precursors, and formation of anterior visceral endoderm-like tissues. After transplantation into the pseudopregnant mouse uterus, ETX-embryoids efficiently initiate implantation and trigger the formation of decidual tissues. The ability of the three cell types to self-assemble into an embryo-like structure in vitro provides a powerful model system for studying embryogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaopeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Tianzhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Naixin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Dengfeng Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Bingbo Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | | | - Ye Yuan
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, 80124, USA
| | - Minglei Zhi
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Qingqing Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Jinzhu Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Haiyuan Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Liang Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Xiaohua Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xuepeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Liang Zhong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hui Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Suying Cao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, 102206, China
| | | | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Jianyong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China. .,Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
SCL/TAL1 cooperates with Polycomb RYBP-PRC1 to suppress alternative lineages in blood-fated cells. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5375. [PMID: 30560907 PMCID: PMC6299140 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07787-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
During development, it is unclear if lineage-fated cells derive from multilineage-primed progenitors and whether active mechanisms operate to restrict cell fate. Here we investigate how mesoderm specifies into blood-fated cells. We document temporally restricted co-expression of blood (Scl/Tal1), cardiac (Mesp1) and paraxial (Tbx6) lineage-affiliated transcription factors in single cells, at the onset of blood specification, supporting the existence of common progenitors. At the same time-restricted stage, absence of SCL results in expansion of cardiac/paraxial cell populations and increased cardiac/paraxial gene expression, suggesting active suppression of alternative fates. Indeed, SCL normally activates expression of co-repressor ETO2 and Polycomb-PRC1 subunits (RYBP, PCGF5) and maintains levels of Polycomb-associated histone marks (H2AK119ub/H3K27me3). Genome-wide analyses reveal ETO2 and RYBP co-occupy most SCL target genes, including cardiac/paraxial loci. Reduction of Eto2 or Rybp expression mimics Scl-null cardiac phenotype. Therefore, SCL-mediated transcriptional repression prevents mis-specification of blood-fated cells, establishing active repression as central to fate determination processes. Mechanisms that operate during embryonic development to restrict cell fate are currently under investigation. Here the authors characterise the role of SCL/TAL1 at the onset of blood specification in embryonic development using mouse EB differentiation culture as a model system.
Collapse
|
45
|
Taniguchi K, Heemskerk I, Gumucio DL. Opening the black box: Stem cell-based modeling of human post-implantation development. J Cell Biol 2018; 218:410-421. [PMID: 30552099 PMCID: PMC6363460 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201810084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper development of the human embryo following its implantation into the uterine wall is critical for the successful continuation of pregnancy. However, the complex cellular and molecular changes that occur during this post-implantation period of human development are not amenable to study in vivo. Recently, several new embryo-like human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-based platforms have emerged, which are beginning to illuminate the current black box state of early human post-implantation biology. In this review, we will discuss how these experimental models are carving a way for understanding novel molecular and cellular mechanisms during early human development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenichiro Taniguchi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Idse Heemskerk
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Deborah L Gumucio
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Yoney A, Etoc F, Ruzo A, Carroll T, Metzger JJ, Martyn I, Li S, Kirst C, Siggia ED, Brivanlou AH. WNT signaling memory is required for ACTIVIN to function as a morphogen in human gastruloids. eLife 2018; 7:38279. [PMID: 30311909 PMCID: PMC6234031 DOI: 10.7554/elife.38279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-organization of discrete fates in human gastruloids is mediated by a hierarchy of signaling pathways. How these pathways are integrated in time, and whether cells maintain a memory of their signaling history remains obscure. Here, we dissect the temporal integration of two key pathways, WNT and ACTIVIN, which along with BMP control gastrulation. CRISPR/Cas9-engineered live reporters of SMAD1, 2 and 4 demonstrate that in contrast to the stable signaling by SMAD1, signaling and transcriptional response by SMAD2 is transient, and while necessary for pluripotency, it is insufficient for differentiation. Pre-exposure to WNT, however, endows cells with the competence to respond to graded levels of ACTIVIN, which induces differentiation without changing SMAD2 dynamics. This cellular memory of WNT signaling is necessary for ACTIVIN morphogen activity. A re-evaluation of the evidence gathered over decades in model systems, re-enforces our conclusions and points to an evolutionarily conserved mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Yoney
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States.,Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Fred Etoc
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States.,Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Albert Ruzo
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Thomas Carroll
- Bioinformatics Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Jakob J Metzger
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States.,Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Iain Martyn
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States.,Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Shu Li
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Christoph Kirst
- Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Eric D Siggia
- Center for Studies in Physics and Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Ali H Brivanlou
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Sun J, Yan L, Shen W, Meng A. Maternal Ybx1 safeguards zebrafish oocyte maturation and maternal-to-zygotic transition by repressing global translation. Development 2018; 145:dev.166587. [PMID: 30135188 DOI: 10.1242/dev.166587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Maternal mRNAs and proteins dictate early embryonic development before zygotic genome activation. In the absence of transcription, elaborate control of maternal mRNA translation is of particular importance for oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis. By analyzing zebrafish ybx1 mutants with a null allele, we demonstrate an essential role of maternal ybx1 in repressing global translation in oocytes and embryos. Loss of maternal Ybx1 leads to impaired oocyte maturation and egg activation. Maternal ybx1 (Mybx1) mutant embryos fail to undergo normal cleavage and the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT). Morpholino knockdown of ybx1 also results in MZT loss and epiboly failure, suggesting the postfertilization requirement of Ybx1. In addition, elevated global translation level and the unfolded protein response were found in Ybx1-depleted embryos. Supplementing translational repression by eIF4E inhibition markedly rescues the Mybx1 phenotype. Mechanistically, Ybx1 in embryos may associate with processing body components and repress translation when tethered to target mRNAs. Collectively, our results identify maternal Ybx1 as a global translational repressor required for oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Sun
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Lu Yan
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Weimin Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Anming Meng
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
|
49
|
Bragança J. SMAD2/3, versatile molecular tools for cellular engineering. Stem Cell Investig 2018; 5:24. [PMID: 30148157 DOI: 10.21037/sci.2018.07.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- José Bragança
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Medicine, University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal.,Centre for Biomedical Research-CBMR, University of Algarve, Campus of Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal.,ABC - Algarve Biomedical Centre, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Roessler E, Hu P, Marino J, Hong S, Hart R, Berger S, Martinez A, Abe Y, Kruszka P, Thomas JW, Mullikin JC, Wang Y, Wong WSW, Niederhuber JE, Solomon BD, Richieri-Costa A, Ribeiro-Bicudo LA, Muenke M. Common genetic causes of holoprosencephaly are limited to a small set of evolutionarily conserved driver genes of midline development coordinated by TGF-β, hedgehog, and FGF signaling. Hum Mutat 2018; 39:1416-1427. [PMID: 29992659 DOI: 10.1002/humu.23590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Here, we applied targeted capture to examine 153 genes representative of all the major vertebrate developmental pathways among 333 probands to rank their relative significance as causes for holoprosencephaly (HPE). We now show that comparisons of variant transmission versus nontransmission among 136 HPE Trios indicates some reported genes now lack confirmation, while novel genes are implicated. Furthermore, we demonstrate that variation of modest intrinsic effect can synergize with these driver mutations as gene modifiers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erich Roessler
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ping Hu
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Sungkook Hong
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Rachel Hart
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Seth Berger
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Ariel Martinez
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yu Abe
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Paul Kruszka
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - James W Thomas
- NIH Intramural Sequencing Center, NISC, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - James C Mullikin
- NIH Intramural Sequencing Center, NISC, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | -
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Yupeng Wang
- Inova Translational Medicine Institute, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Falls Church, Virginia
| | - Wendy S W Wong
- Inova Translational Medicine Institute, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Falls Church, Virginia
| | - John E Niederhuber
- Inova Translational Medicine Institute, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Falls Church, Virginia
| | - Benjamin D Solomon
- Inova Translational Medicine Institute, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Falls Church, Virginia.,Presently the Managing Director, GeneDx, Gaithersburg, Maryland
| | - Antônio Richieri-Costa
- Hospital for the Rehabilitation of Craniofacial Anomalies, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L A Ribeiro-Bicudo
- Institute of Bioscience, Department of Genetics, Federal University of Goias, Goias, Brazil
| | - Maximilian Muenke
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|