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Liu Y, Wei C, Yang Y, Zhu Z, Ren Y, Pi R. In situ chemical reprogramming of astrocytes into neurons: A new hope for the treatment of central neurodegenerative diseases? Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 982:176930. [PMID: 39179093 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Central neurodegenerative disorders (e.g. Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD)) are tightly associated with extensive neuron loss. Current therapeutic interventions merely mitigate the symptoms of these diseases, falling short of addressing the fundamental issue of neuron loss. Cell reprogramming, involving the transition of a cell from one gene expression profile to another, has made significant strides in the conversion between diverse somatic cell types. This advancement has been facilitated by gene editing techniques or the synergistic application of small molecules, enabling the conversion of glial cells into functional neurons. Despite this progress, the potential for in situ reprogramming of astrocytes in treating neurodegenerative disorders faces challenges such as immune rejection and genotoxicity. A novel avenue emerges through chemical reprogramming of astrocytes utilizing small molecules, circumventing genotoxic effects and unlocking substantial clinical utility. Recent studies have successfully demonstrated the in situ conversion of astrocytes into neurons using small molecules. Nonetheless, these findings have sparked debates, encompassing queries regarding the origin of newborn neurons, pivotal molecular targets, and alterations in metabolic pathways. This review succinctly delineates the background of astrocytes reprogramming, meticulously surveys the principal classes of small molecule combinations employed thus far, and examines the complex signaling pathways they activate. Finally, this article delves into the potential vistas awaiting exploration in the realm of astrocytes chemical reprogramming, heralding a promising future for advancing our understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Liu
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Cailv Wei
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Zeyu Zhu
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yu Ren
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Rongbiao Pi
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Shenzhen, 518107, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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2
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Sun Z, Kwon JS, Ren Y, Chen S, Walker CK, Lu X, Cates K, Karahan H, Sviben S, Fitzpatrick JAJ, Valdez C, Houlden H, Karch CM, Bateman RJ, Sato C, Mennerick SJ, Diamond MI, Kim J, Tanzi RE, Holtzman DM, Yoo AS. Modeling late-onset Alzheimer's disease neuropathology via direct neuronal reprogramming. Science 2024; 385:adl2992. [PMID: 39088624 DOI: 10.1126/science.adl2992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) is the most common form of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, modeling sporadic LOAD that endogenously captures hallmark neuronal pathologies such as amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition, tau tangles, and neuronal loss remains an unmet need. We demonstrate that neurons generated by microRNA (miRNA)-based direct reprogramming of fibroblasts from individuals affected by autosomal dominant AD (ADAD) and LOAD in a three-dimensional environment effectively recapitulate key neuropathological features of AD. Reprogrammed LOAD neurons exhibit Aβ-dependent neurodegeneration, and treatment with β- or γ-secretase inhibitors before (but not subsequent to) Aβ deposit formation mitigated neuronal death. Moreover inhibiting age-associated retrotransposable elements in LOAD neurons reduced both Aβ deposition and neurodegeneration. Our study underscores the efficacy of modeling late-onset neuropathology of LOAD through high-efficiency miRNA-based neuronal reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Sun
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Ji-Sun Kwon
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Program in Computational and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yudong Ren
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Program in Developmental, Regenerative, and Stem Cell Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Shawei Chen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Courtney K Walker
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Xinguo Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Kitra Cates
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Program in Molecular Genetics and Genomics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Hande Karahan
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Sanja Sviben
- Washington University Center for Cellular Imaging, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - James A J Fitzpatrick
- Washington University Center for Cellular Imaging, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Clarissa Valdez
- Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Henry Houlden
- UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Celeste M Karch
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Randall J Bateman
- Tracy Family SILQ Center for Neurodegenerative Biology, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Chihiro Sato
- Tracy Family SILQ Center for Neurodegenerative Biology, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Steven J Mennerick
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Marc I Diamond
- Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Jungsu Kim
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Rudolph E Tanzi
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, McCance Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - David M Holtzman
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Andrew S Yoo
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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3
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Le N, Vu TD, Palazzo I, Pulya R, Kim Y, Blackshaw S, Hoang T. Robust reprogramming of glia into neurons by inhibition of Notch signaling and nuclear factor I (NFI) factors in adult mammalian retina. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadn2091. [PMID: 38996013 PMCID: PMC11244444 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn2091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Generation of neurons through direct reprogramming has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for treating neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we present an efficient method for reprogramming retinal glial cells into neurons. By suppressing Notch signaling by disrupting either Rbpj or Notch1/2, we induced mature Müller glial cells to reprogram into bipolar- and amacrine-like neurons. We demonstrate that Rbpj directly activates both Notch effector genes and genes specific to mature Müller glia while indirectly repressing expression of neurogenic basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) factors. Combined loss of function of Rbpj and Nfia/b/x resulted in conversion of nearly all Müller glia to neurons. Last, inducing Müller glial proliferation by overexpression of dominant-active Yap promotes neurogenesis in both Rbpj- and Nfia/b/x/Rbpj-deficient Müller glia. These findings demonstrate that Notch signaling and NFI factors act in parallel to inhibit neurogenic competence in mammalian Müller glia and help clarify potential strategies for regenerative therapies aimed at treating retinal dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyet Le
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Trieu-Duc Vu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Isabella Palazzo
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ritvik Pulya
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Yehna Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Seth Blackshaw
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Kavli Neuroscience Discovery Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Thanh Hoang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
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Portela-Lomba M, Simón D, Callejo-Móstoles M, de la Fuente G, Fernández de Sevilla D, García-Escudero V, Moreno-Flores MT, Sierra J. Generation of functional neurons from adult human mucosal olfactory ensheathing glia by direct lineage conversion. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:478. [PMID: 38961086 PMCID: PMC11222439 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06862-9] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
A recent approach to promote central nervous system (CNS) regeneration after injury or disease is direct conversion of somatic cells to neurons. This is achieved by transduction of viral vectors that express neurogenic transcription factors. In this work we propose adult human mucosal olfactory ensheathing glia (hmOEG) as a candidate for direct reprogramming to neurons due to its accessibility and to its well-characterized neuroregenerative capacity. After induction of hmOEG with the single neurogenic transcription factor NEUROD1, the cells under study exhibited morphological and immunolabeling neuronal features, fired action potentials and expressed glutamatergic and GABAergic markers. In addition, after engraftment of transduced hmOEG cells in the mouse hippocampus, these cells showed specific neuronal labeling. Thereby, if we add to the neuroregenerative capacity of hmOEG cultures the conversion to neurons of a fraction of their population through reprogramming techniques, the engraftment of hmOEG and hmOEG-induced neurons could be a procedure to enhance neural repair after central nervous system injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Portela-Lomba
- School of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Diana Simón
- School of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain
| | - Marta Callejo-Móstoles
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gemma de la Fuente
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Fernández de Sevilla
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vega García-Escudero
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Teresa Moreno-Flores
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Javier Sierra
- School of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain.
- School of Medicine, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Spain.
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5
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Zhang Y, Zhang W, Liu T, Ma Z, Zhang W, Guan Y, Chen X. Upregulation of circ0000381 attenuates microglial/macrophage pyroptosis after spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1360-1366. [PMID: 37905886 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.386399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202406000-00041/inline-graphic1/v/2023-10-30T152229Z/r/image-tiff
Neuroinflammation exacerbates secondary damage after spinal cord injury, while microglia/macrophage pyroptosis is important to neuroinflammation. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a role in the central nervous system. However, the functional role and mechanism of circRNAs in regulating microglia/macrophage pyroptosis after spinal cord injury are still poorly studied. In the present study, we detected microglia/macrophage pyroptosis in a female rat model of spinal cord injury, along with upregulated levels of circ0000381 in the spinal cord. Our further experimental results suggest that circ0000381 may function as a sponge to sequester endogenous microRNA423-3p (miR-423-3p), which can increase the expression of NOD-like receptor 3 (NLRP3), a pyroptosis marker. Therefore, upregulation of circ0000381 may be a compensatory change after spinal cord injury to attenuate microglia/macrophage pyroptosis. Indeed, knockdown of circ0000381 expression exacerbated microglia/macrophage pyroptosis. Collectively, our findings provide novel evidence for the upregulation of circ0000381, which may serve as a neuroprotective mechanism to attenuate microglia/macrophage pyroptosis after spinal cord injury. Accordingly, circ0000381 may be a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenkai Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Aerospace Center Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ziqian Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenxiu Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xueming Chen
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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6
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Iyer DP, Moyon L, Wittler L, Cheng CY, Ringeling FR, Canzar S, Marsico A, Bulut-Karslioğlu A. Combinatorial microRNA activity is essential for the transition of pluripotent cells from proliferation into dormancy. Genome Res 2024; 34:572-589. [PMID: 38719471 PMCID: PMC11146600 DOI: 10.1101/gr.278662.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Dormancy is a key feature of stem cell function in adult tissues as well as in embryonic cells in the context of diapause. The establishment of dormancy is an active process that involves extensive transcriptional, epigenetic, and metabolic rewiring. How these processes are coordinated to successfully transition cells to the resting dormant state remains unclear. Here we show that microRNA activity, which is otherwise dispensable for preimplantation development, is essential for the adaptation of early mouse embryos to the dormant state of diapause. In particular, the pluripotent epiblast depends on miRNA activity, the absence of which results in the loss of pluripotent cells. Through the integration of high-sensitivity small RNA expression profiling of individual embryos and protein expression of miRNA targets with public data of protein-protein interactions, we constructed the miRNA-mediated regulatory network of mouse early embryos specific to diapause. We find that individual miRNAs contribute to the combinatorial regulation by the network, and the perturbation of the network compromises embryo survival in diapause. We further identified the nutrient-sensitive transcription factor TFE3 as an upstream regulator of diapause-specific miRNAs, linking cytoplasmic MTOR activity to nuclear miRNA biogenesis. Our results place miRNAs as a critical regulatory layer for the molecular rewiring of early embryos to establish dormancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanur P Iyer
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lambert Moyon
- Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Chieh-Yu Cheng
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Francisca R Ringeling
- Faculty of Informatics and Data Science, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Canzar
- Faculty of Informatics and Data Science, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Annalisa Marsico
- Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Center Munich, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany;
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Aryal S, Chen S, Burbach KF, Yang Y, Capano LS, Kim WK, Bragg DC, Yoo A. SAK3 confers neuroprotection in the neurodegeneration model of X-linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4068432. [PMID: 38746402 PMCID: PMC11092809 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4068432/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Background X-linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism(XDP) is an adult-onset neurodegenerative disorder that results in the loss of striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs). XDP is associated with disease-specific mutations in and around the TAF1 gene. This study highlights the utility of directly reprogrammed MSNs from fibroblasts of affected XDP individuals as a platform that captures cellular and epigenetic phenotypes associated with XDP-related neurodegeneration. In addition, the current study demonstrates the neuroprotective effect of SAK3 currently tested in other neurodegenerative diseases. Methods XDP fibroblasts from three independent patients as well as age- and sex-matched control fibroblasts were used to generate MSNs by direct neuronal reprogramming using miRNA-9/9*-124 and thetranscription factors CTIP2 , DLX1 -P2A- DLX2 , and MYT1L . Neuronal death, DNA damage, and mitochondrial health assays were carried out to assess the neurodegenerative state of directly reprogrammed MSNs from XDP patients (XDP-MSNs). RNA sequencing and ATAC sequencing were performed to infer changes in the transcriptomic and chromatin landscapesof XDP-MSNs compared to those of control MSNs (Ctrl-MSNs). Results Our results show that XDP patient fibroblasts can be successfully reprogrammed into MSNs and XDP-MSNs display several degenerative phenotypes, including neuronal death, DNA damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction, compared to Ctrl-MSNs reprogrammed from age- and sex-matched control individuals' fibroblasts. In addition, XDP-MSNs showed increased vulnerability to TNFα -toxicity compared to Ctrl-MSNs. To dissect the altered cellular state in XDP-MSNs, we conducted transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility analyses using RNA- and ATAC-seq. Our results indicate that pathways related to neuronal function, calcium signaling, and genes related to other neurodegenerative diseases are commonly altered in XDP-MSNs from multiple patients. Interestingly, we found that SAK3, a T-type calcium channel activator, that may have therapeutic values in other neurodegenerative disorders, protected XDP-MSNs from neuronal death. Notably, we found that SAK3-mediated alleviation of neurodegeneration in XDP-MSNs was accompanied by gene expression changes toward Ctrl-MSNs.
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8
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McCoy MJ, Fire AZ. Parallel gene size and isoform expansion of ancient neuronal genes. Curr Biol 2024; 34:1635-1645.e3. [PMID: 38460513 PMCID: PMC11043017 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.02.021] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
How nervous systems evolved is a central question in biology. A diversity of synaptic proteins is thought to play a central role in the formation of specific synapses leading to nervous system complexity. The largest animal genes, often spanning hundreds of thousands of base pairs, are known to be enriched for expression in neurons at synapses and are frequently mutated or misregulated in neurological disorders and diseases. Although many of these genes have been studied independently in the context of nervous system evolution and disease, general principles underlying their parallel evolution remain unknown. To investigate this, we directly compared orthologous gene sizes across eukaryotes. By comparing relative gene sizes within organisms, we identified a distinct class of large genes with origins predating the diversification of animals and, in many cases, the emergence of neurons as dedicated cell types. We traced this class of ancient large genes through evolution and found orthologs of the large synaptic genes potentially driving the immense complexity of metazoan nervous systems, including in humans and cephalopods. Moreover, we found that while these genes are evolving under strong purifying selection, as demonstrated by low dN/dS ratios, they have simultaneously grown larger and gained the most isoforms in animals. This work provides a new lens through which to view this distinctive class of large and multi-isoform genes and demonstrates how intrinsic genomic properties, such as gene length, can provide flexibility in molecular evolution and allow groups of genes and their host organisms to evolve toward complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J McCoy
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Andrew Z Fire
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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9
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Traxler L, Borgogno O, Mertens J. Ignorance is bliss: Inhibition of proteomic stress sensing improves direct neuronal conversion. Neuron 2024; 112:1035-1037. [PMID: 38574725 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Direct conversion of non-neuronal cells to neurons offers opportunities for disease modeling and therapy. In this issue of Neuron, Sonsalla et al.1 reveal the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway as a "proteomic roadblock" to direct neuronal conversion; overcoming this roadblock enhances reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Traxler
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA; Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Oliver Borgogno
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA; Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jerome Mertens
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA; Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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10
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Oh YM, Lee SW. Patient-derived neuron model: Capturing age-dependent adult-onset degenerative pathology in Huntington's disease. Mol Cells 2024; 47:100046. [PMID: 38492889 PMCID: PMC11021366 DOI: 10.1016/j.mocell.2024.100046] [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] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs play a crucial role in directly reprogramming (converting) human fibroblasts into neurons. Specifically, miR-9/9* and miR-124 (miR-9/9*-124) display neurogenic and cell fate-switching activities when ectopically expressed in human fibroblasts by erasing fibroblast identity and inducing a pan-neuronal state. These converted neurons maintain the biological age of the starting fibroblasts and thus provide a human neuron-based platform to study cellular properties in aged neurons and model adult-onset neurodegenerative disorders using patient-derived cells. Furthermore, the expression of striatal-enriched transcription factors in conjunction with miR-9/9*-124 guides the identity of medium spiny neurons (MSNs), the primary targets in Huntington's disease (HD). Converted MSNs from HD patient-derived fibroblasts (HD-MSNs) can replicate HD-related phenotypes including neurodegeneration associated with age-related declines in critical cellular functions such as autophagy. Here, we review the role of microRNAs in the direct conversion of patient-derived fibroblasts into MSNs and the practical application of converted HD-MSNs as a model for studying adult-onset neuropathology in HD. We provide valuable insights into age-related, cell-intrinsic changes contributing to neurodegeneration in HD-MSNs. Ultimately, we address a comprehensive understanding of the complex molecular landscape underlying HD pathology, offering potential avenues for therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Mi Oh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA 31901, USA
| | - Seong Won Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA 31901, USA
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11
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Burbach KF, Yoo AS. Notch Inhibition Enhances Morphological Reprogramming of microRNA-Induced Human Neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.12.575384. [PMID: 38260259 PMCID: PMC10802628 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.12.575384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Although the importance of Notch signaling in brain development is well-known, its specific contribution to cellular reprogramming remains less defined. Here, we use microRNA-induced neurons that are directly reprogrammed from human fibroblasts to determine how Notch signaling contributes to neuronal identity. We found that inhibiting Notch signaling led to an increase in neurite extension, while activating Notch signaling had the opposite effect. Surprisingly, Notch inhibition during the first week of reprogramming was both necessary and sufficient to enhance neurite outgrowth at a later timepoint. This timeframe is when the reprogramming miRNAs, miR-9/9* and miR-124, primarily induce a post-mitotic state and erase fibroblast identity. Accordingly, transcriptomic analysis showed that the effect of Notch inhibition was likely due to improvements in fibroblast fate erasure and silencing of anti-neuronal genes. To this effect, we identify MYLIP , whose downregulation in response to Notch inhibition significantly promoted neurite outgrowth. Moreover, Notch inhibition resulted in cells with neuronal transcriptome signature defined by expressing long genes at a faster rate than the control, demonstrating the effect of accelerated fate erasure on neuronal fate acquisition. Our results demonstrate the critical role of Notch signaling in mediating morphological changes in miRNA-based neuronal reprogramming of human adult fibroblasts.
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Lee SW, Oh YM, Victor MB, Yang Y, Chen S, Strunilin I, Dahiya S, Dolle RE, Pak SC, Silverman GA, Perlmutter DH, Yoo AS. Longitudinal modeling of human neuronal aging reveals the contribution of the RCAN1-TFEB pathway to Huntington's disease neurodegeneration. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:95-109. [PMID: 38066314 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00538-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a common risk factor in neurodegenerative disorders. Investigating neuronal aging in an isogenic background stands to facilitate analysis of the interplay between neuronal aging and neurodegeneration. Here we perform direct neuronal reprogramming of longitudinally collected human fibroblasts to reveal genetic pathways altered at different ages. Comparative transcriptome analysis of longitudinally aged striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in Huntington's disease identified pathways involving RCAN1, a negative regulator of calcineurin. Notably, RCAN1 protein increased with age in reprogrammed MSNs as well as in human postmortem striatum and RCAN1 knockdown rescued patient-derived MSNs of Huntington's disease from degeneration. RCAN1 knockdown enhanced chromatin accessibility of genes involved in longevity and autophagy, mediated through enhanced calcineurin activity, leading to TFEB's nuclear localization by dephosphorylation. Furthermore, G2-115, an analog of glibenclamide with autophagy-enhancing activities, reduced the RCAN1-calcineurin interaction, phenocopying the effect of RCAN1 knockdown. Our results demonstrate that targeting RCAN1 genetically or pharmacologically can increase neuronal resilience in Huntington's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Won Lee
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA, USA
| | - Young Mi Oh
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA, USA
| | - Matheus B Victor
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Shawei Chen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ilya Strunilin
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sonika Dahiya
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Roland E Dolle
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Stephen C Pak
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gary A Silverman
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David H Perlmutter
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrew S Yoo
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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13
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Lyu Y, Xie F, Chen B, Shin WS, Chen W, He Y, Leung KT, Tse GMK, Yu J, To KF, Kang W. The nerve cells in gastrointestinal cancers: from molecular mechanisms to clinical intervention. Oncogene 2024; 43:77-91. [PMID: 38081962 PMCID: PMC10774121 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02909-x] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a formidable malignancy with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Recent studies have shed light on the complex interplay between the nervous system and the GI system, influencing various aspects of GI tumorigenesis, such as the malignance of cancer cells, the conformation of tumor microenvironment (TME), and the resistance to chemotherapies. The discussion in this review first focused on exploring the intricate details of the biological function of the nervous system in the development of the GI tract and the progression of tumors within it. Meanwhile, the cancer cell-originated feedback regulation on the nervous system is revealed to play a crucial role in the growth and development of nerve cells within tumor tissues. This interaction is vital for understanding the complex relationship between the nervous system and GI oncogenesis. Additionally, the study identified various components within the TME that possess a significant influence on the occurrence and progression of GI cancer, including microbiota, immune cells, and fibroblasts. Moreover, we highlighted the transformation relationship between non-neuronal cells and neuronal cells during GI cancer progression, inspiring the development of strategies for nervous system-guided anti-tumor drugs. By further elucidating the deep mechanism of various neuroregulatory signals and neuronal intervention, we underlined the potential of these targeted drugs translating into effective therapies for GI cancer treatment. In summary, this review provides an overview of the mechanisms of neuromodulation and explores potential therapeutic opportunities, providing insights into the understanding and management of GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Lyu
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fuda Xie
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bonan Chen
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wing Sum Shin
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, Digestive Diseases Center, Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yulong He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, Digestive Diseases Center, Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kam Tong Leung
- Department of Pediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gary M K Tse
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ka Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wei Kang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- CUHK-Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China.
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Wang NB, Lende-Dorn BA, Adewumi HO, Beitz AM, Han P, O'Shea TM, Galloway KE. Proliferation history and transcription factor levels drive direct conversion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.26.568736. [PMID: 38077004 PMCID: PMC10705288 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.26.568736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The sparse and stochastic nature of reprogramming has obscured our understanding of how transcription factors drive cells to new identities. To overcome this limit, we developed a compact, portable reprogramming system that increases direct conversion of fibroblasts to motor neurons by two orders of magnitude. We show that subpopulations with different reprogramming potentials are distinguishable by proliferation history. By controlling for proliferation history and titrating each transcription factor, we find that conversion correlates with levels of the pioneer transcription factor Ngn2, whereas conversion shows a biphasic response to Lhx3. Increasing the proliferation rate of adult human fibroblasts generates morphologically mature, induced motor neurons at high rates. Using compact, optimized, polycistronic cassettes, we generate motor neurons that graft with the murine central nervous system, demonstrating the potential for in vivo therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Honour O Adewumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Adam M Beitz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Patrick Han
- Department of Chemical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Timothy M O'Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Kate E Galloway
- Department of Chemical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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Le N, Vu TD, Palazzo I, Pulya R, Kim Y, Blackshaw S, Hoang T. Robust reprogramming of glia into neurons by inhibition of Notch signaling and NFI factors in adult mammalian retina. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.29.560483. [PMID: 37961663 PMCID: PMC10634926 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.29.560483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Generation of neurons through direct reprogramming has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative diseases. Despite successful applications in vitro , in vivo implementation has been hampered by low efficiency. In this study, we present a highly efficient strategy for reprogramming retinal glial cells into neurons by simultaneously inhibiting key negative regulators. By suppressing Notch signaling through the removal of its central mediator Rbpj, we induced mature Müller glial cells to reprogram into bipolar and amacrine neurons in uninjured adult mouse retinas, and observed that this effect was further enhanced by retinal injury. We found that specific loss of function of Notch1 and Notch2 receptors in Müller glia mimicked the effect of Rbpj deletion on Müller glia-derived neurogenesis. Integrated analysis of multiome (scRNA- and scATAC-seq) and CUT&Tag data revealed that Rbpj directly activates Notch effector genes and genes specific to mature Müller glia while also indirectly represses the expression of neurogenic bHLH factors. Furthermore, we found that combined loss of function of Rbpj and Nfia/b/x resulted in a robust conversion of nearly all Müller glia to neurons. Finally, we demonstrated that inducing Müller glial proliferation by AAV (adeno-associated virus)-mediated overexpression of dominant- active Yap supports efficient levels of Müller glia-derived neurogenesis in both Rbpj - and Nfia/b/x/Rbpj - deficient Müller glia. These findings demonstrate that, much like in zebrafish, Notch signaling actively represses neurogenic competence in mammalian Müller glia, and suggest that inhibition of Notch signaling and Nfia/b/x in combination with overexpression of activated Yap could serve as an effective component of regenerative therapies for degenerative retinal diseases.
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Yang SG, Wang XW, Li CP, Huang T, Li Q, Zhao LR, Qian C, Saijilafu, Liu CM, Zhou FQ. X chromosome encoded histone demethylase UTX regulates mammalian axon regeneration via microRNA-124. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.12.557354. [PMID: 37745499 PMCID: PMC10515817 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.12.557354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Neurons in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) gradually lose their intrinsic regeneration capacity during maturation mainly because of altered transcription profile. Recent studies have made great progress by identifying genes that can be manipulated to enhance CNS regeneration. However, as a complex process involving many genes and signaling networks, it is of great importance to deciphering the underlying neuronal chromatin and transcriptomic landscape coordinating CNS regeneration. Here we identify UTX, an X-chromosome associated gene encoding a histone demethylase, as a novel regulator of mammalian neural regeneration. We demonstrate that UTX acts as a repressor of spontaneous axon regeneration in the peripheral nerve system (PNS). In the CNS, either knocking out or pharmacological inhibiting UTX in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) leads to significantly enhanced neuronal survival and optic nerve regeneration. RNA-seq profiling revealed that deleting UTX switches the RGC transcriptomics into a developmental-like state. Moreover, microRNA-124, one of the most abundant microRNAs in mature neurons, is identified as a downstream target of UTX and blocking endogenous microRNA124-5p results in robust optic nerve regeneration. These findings revealed a novel histone modification-microRNA epigenetic signaling network orchestrating transcriptomic landscape supporting CNS neural regeneration.
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17
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Fang YM, Chen WC, Zheng WJ, Yang YS, Zhang Y, Chen XL, Pei MQ, Lin S, He HF. A cutting-edge strategy for spinal cord injury treatment: resident cellular transdifferentiation. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1237641. [PMID: 37711511 PMCID: PMC10498389 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1237641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury causes varying degrees of motor and sensory function loss. However, there are no effective treatments for spinal cord repair following an injury. Moreover, significant preclinical advances in bioengineering and regenerative medicine have not yet been translated into effective clinical therapies. The spinal cord's poor regenerative capacity makes repairing damaged and lost neurons a critical treatment step. Reprogramming-based neuronal transdifferentiation has recently shown great potential in repair and plasticity, as it can convert mature somatic cells into functional neurons for spinal cord injury repair in vitro and in vivo, effectively halting the progression of spinal cord injury and promoting functional improvement. However, the mechanisms of the neuronal transdifferentiation and the induced neuronal subtypes are not yet well understood. This review analyzes the mechanisms of resident cellular transdifferentiation based on a review of the relevant recent literature, describes different molecular approaches to obtain different neuronal subtypes, discusses the current challenges and improvement methods, and provides new ideas for exploring therapeutic approaches for spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ming Fang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Wei-Can Chen
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Wan-Jing Zheng
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yu-Shen Yang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Xin-Li Chen
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Meng-Qin Pei
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- Neuroendocrinology Group, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - He-Fan He
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
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McCoy MJ, Fire AZ. Ancient origins of complex neuronal genes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.28.534655. [PMID: 37034725 PMCID: PMC10081198 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.28.534655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
How nervous systems evolved is a central question in biology. An increasing diversity of synaptic proteins is thought to play a central role in the formation of specific synapses leading to nervous system complexity. The largest animal genes, often spanning millions of base pairs, are known to be enriched for expression in neurons at synapses and are frequently mutated or misregulated in neurological disorders and diseases. While many of these genes have been studied independently in the context of nervous system evolution and disease, general principles underlying their parallel evolution remain unknown. To investigate this, we directly compared orthologous gene sizes across eukaryotes. By comparing relative gene sizes within organisms, we identified a distinct class of large genes with origins predating the diversification of animals and in many cases the emergence of dedicated neuronal cell types. We traced this class of ancient large genes through evolution and found orthologs of the large synaptic genes driving the immense complexity of metazoan nervous systems, including in humans and cephalopods. Moreover, we found that while these genes are evolving under strong purifying selection as demonstrated by low dN/dS scores, they have simultaneously grown larger and gained the most isoforms in animals. This work provides a new lens through which to view this distinctive class of large and multi-isoform genes and demonstrates how intrinsic genomic properties, such as gene length, can provide flexibility in molecular evolution and allow groups of genes and their host organisms to evolve toward complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. McCoy
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Whitman Center, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Andrew Z. Fire
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Lear BP, Moore DL. Moving CNS axon growth and regeneration research into human model systems. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1198041. [PMID: 37425013 PMCID: PMC10324669 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1198041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Axon regeneration is limited in the adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS) due to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Rodent studies have shown that developmental age can drive differences in intrinsic axon growth ability, such that embryonic rodent CNS neurons extend long axons while postnatal and adult CNS neurons do not. In recent decades, scientists have identified several intrinsic developmental regulators in rodents that modulate growth. However, whether this developmentally programmed decline in CNS axon growth is conserved in humans is not yet known. Until recently, there have been limited human neuronal model systems, and even fewer age-specific human models. Human in vitro models range from pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons to directly reprogrammed (transdifferentiated) neurons derived from human somatic cells. In this review, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each system, and how studying axon growth in human neurons can provide species-specific knowledge in the field of CNS axon regeneration with the goal of bridging basic science studies to clinical trials. Additionally, with the increased availability and quality of 'omics datasets of human cortical tissue across development and lifespan, scientists can mine these datasets for developmentally regulated pathways and genes. As there has been little research performed in human neurons to study modulators of axon growth, here we provide a summary of approaches to begin to shift the field of CNS axon growth and regeneration into human model systems to uncover novel drivers of axon growth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Darcie L. Moore
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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Kciuk M, Yahya EB, Mohamed MMI, Abdulsamad MA, Allaq AA, Gielecińska A, Kontek R. Insights into the Role of LncRNAs and miRNAs in Glioma Progression and Their Potential as Novel Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3298. [PMID: 37444408 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133298] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence supports that both long non-coding and micro RNAs (lncRNAs and miRNAs) are implicated in glioma tumorigenesis and progression. Poor outcome of gliomas has been linked to late-stage diagnosis and mostly ineffectiveness of conventional treatment due to low knowledge about the early stage of gliomas, which are not possible to observe with conventional diagnostic approaches. The past few years witnessed a revolutionary advance in biotechnology and neuroscience with the understanding of tumor-related molecules, including non-coding RNAs that are involved in the angiogenesis and progression of glioma cells and thus are used as prognostic biomarkers as well as novel therapeutic targets. The emerging research on lncRNAs and miRNAs highlights their crucial role in glioma progression, offering new insights into the disease. These non-coding RNAs hold significant potential as novel therapeutic targets, paving the way for innovative treatment approaches against glioma. This review encompasses a comprehensive discussion about the role of lncRNAs and miRNAs in gene regulation that is responsible for the promotion or the inhibition of glioma progression and collects the existing links between these key cancer-related molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Kciuk
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
| | - Esam Bashir Yahya
- Bioprocess Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | | | - Muhanad A Abdulsamad
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Sabratha University, Sabratha 00218, Libya
| | - Abdulmutalib A Allaq
- Faculty of Applied Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam 40450, Malaysia
| | - Adrianna Gielecińska
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
| | - Renata Kontek
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
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Sun Z, Kwon JS, Ren Y, Chen S, Cates K, Lu X, Walker CK, Karahan H, Sviben S, Fitzpatrick JAJ, Valdez C, Houlden H, Karch CM, Bateman RJ, Sato C, Mennerick SJ, Diamond MI, Kim J, Tanzi RE, Holtzman DM, Yoo AS. Endogenous recapitulation of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology through human 3D direct neuronal reprogramming. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.24.542155. [PMID: 37292658 PMCID: PMC10245934 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.24.542155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects elderly individuals, and is characterized by hallmark neuronal pathologies including extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque deposition, intracellular tau tangles, and neuronal death. However, recapitulating these age-associated neuronal pathologies in patient-derived neurons has remained a significant challenge, especially for late-onset AD (LOAD), the most common form of the disorder. Here, we applied the high efficiency microRNA-mediated direct neuronal reprogramming of fibroblasts from AD patients to generate cortical neurons in three-dimensional (3D) Matrigel and self-assembled neuronal spheroids. Our findings indicate that neurons and spheroids reprogrammed from both autosomal dominant AD (ADAD) and LOAD patients exhibited AD-like phenotypes linked to neurons, including extracellular Aβ deposition, dystrophic neurites with hyperphosphorylated, K63-ubiquitin-positive, seed-competent tau, and spontaneous neuronal death in culture. Moreover, treatment with β- or γ-secretase inhibitors in LOAD patient-derived neurons and spheroids before Aβ deposit formation significantly lowered Aβ deposition, as well as tauopathy and neurodegeneration. However, the same treatment after the cells already formed Aβ deposits only had a mild effect. Additionally, inhibiting the synthesis of age-associated retrotransposable elements (RTEs) by treating LOAD neurons and spheroids with the reverse transcriptase inhibitor, lamivudine, alleviated AD neuropathology. Overall, our results demonstrate that direct neuronal reprogramming of AD patient fibroblasts in a 3D environment can capture age-related neuropathology and reflect the interplay between Aβ accumulation, tau dysregulation, and neuronal death. Moreover, miRNA-based 3D neuronal conversion provides a human-relevant AD model that can be used to identify compounds that can potentially ameliorate AD-associated pathologies and neurodegeneration.
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Direct Cell Reprogramming and Phenotypic Conversion: An Analysis of Experimental Attempts to Transform Astrocytes into Neurons in Adult Animals. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040618. [PMID: 36831283 PMCID: PMC9954435 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) repair after injury or disease remains an unresolved problem in neurobiology research and an unmet medical need. Directly reprogramming or converting astrocytes to neurons (AtN) in adult animals has been investigated as a potential strategy to facilitate brain and spinal cord recovery and advance fundamental biology. Conceptually, AtN strategies rely on forced expression or repression of lineage-specific transcription factors to make endogenous astrocytes become "induced neurons" (iNs), presumably without re-entering any pluripotent or multipotent states. The AtN-derived cells have been reported to manifest certain neuronal functions in vivo. However, this approach has raised many new questions and alternative explanations regarding the biological features of the end products (e.g., iNs versus neuron-like cells, neural functional changes, etc.), developmental biology underpinnings, and neurobiological essentials. For this paper per se, we proposed to draw an unconventional distinction between direct cell conversion and direct cell reprogramming, relative to somatic nuclear transfer, based on the experimental methods utilized to initiate the transformation process, aiming to promote a more in-depth mechanistic exploration. Moreover, we have summarized the current tactics employed for AtN induction, comparisons between the bench endeavors concerning outcome tangibility, and discussion of the issues of published AtN protocols. Lastly, the urgency to clearly define/devise the theoretical frameworks, cell biological bases, and bench specifics to experimentally validate primary data of AtN studies was highlighted.
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23
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Oh YM, Lee SW, Kim WK, Chen S, Church VA, Cates K, Li T, Zhang B, Dolle RE, Dahiya S, Pak SC, Silverman GA, Perlmutter DH, Yoo AS. Age-related Huntington's disease progression modeled in directly reprogrammed patient-derived striatal neurons highlights impaired autophagy. Nat Neurosci 2022; 25:1420-1433. [PMID: 36303071 PMCID: PMC10162007 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-022-01185-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder with adult-onset clinical symptoms, but the mechanism by which aging drives the onset of neurodegeneration in patients with HD remains unclear. In this study we examined striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) directly reprogrammed from fibroblasts of patients with HD to model the age-dependent onset of pathology. We found that pronounced neuronal death occurred selectively in reprogrammed MSNs from symptomatic patients with HD (HD-MSNs) compared to MSNs derived from younger, pre-symptomatic patients (pre-HD-MSNs) and control MSNs from age-matched healthy individuals. We observed age-associated alterations in chromatin accessibility between HD-MSNs and pre-HD-MSNs and identified miR-29b-3p, whose age-associated upregulation promotes HD-MSN degeneration by impairing autophagic function through human-specific targeting of the STAT3 3' untranslated region. Reducing miR-29b-3p or chemically promoting autophagy increased the resilience of HD-MSNs against neurodegeneration. Our results demonstrate miRNA upregulation with aging in HD as a detrimental process driving MSN degeneration and potential approaches for enhancing autophagy and resilience of HD-MSNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Mi Oh
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Seong Won Lee
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Woo Kyung Kim
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Shawei Chen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Victoria A Church
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kitra Cates
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tiandao Li
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Roland E Dolle
- Department of Biochemistry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sonika Dahiya
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Stephen C Pak
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gary A Silverman
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David H Perlmutter
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrew S Yoo
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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24
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Kim H, Kim S, Cho B, Shin J, Kim J. APOE ε4-dependent effects on the early amyloid pathology in induced neurons of patients with Alzheimer's disease. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:45. [PMID: 36284363 PMCID: PMC9594913 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00319-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ε4 allele of apolipoprotein E (APOE ε4) is the strongest known genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), associated with amyloid pathogenesis. However, it is not clear how APOE ε4 accelerates amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition during the seeding stage of amyloid development in AD patient neurons. Methods AD patient induced neurons (iNs) with an APOE ε4 inducible system were prepared from skin fibroblasts of AD patients. Transcriptome analysis was performed using RNA isolated from the AD patient iNs expressing APOE ε4 at amyloid-seeding and amyloid-aggregation stages. Knockdown of IGFBP3 was applied in the iNs to investigate the role of IGFBP3 in the APOE ε4-mediated amyloidosis. Results We optimized amyloid seeding stage in the iNs of AD patients that transiently expressed APOE ε4. Remarkably, we demonstrated that Aβ pathology was aggravated by the induction of APOE ε4 gene expression at the amyloid early-seeding stage in the iNs of AD patients. Moreover, transcriptome analysis in the early-seeding stage revealed that IGFBP3 was functionally important in the molecular pathology of APOE ε4-associated AD. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the presence of APOE ε4 at the early Aβ-seeding stage in patient iNs is critical for aggravation of sporadic AD pathology. These results provide insights into the importance of APOE ε4 expression for the progression and pathogenesis of sporadic AD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40035-022-00319-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwon Kim
- grid.255168.d0000 0001 0671 5021Department of Biomedical Engineering, Dongguk University, Pildong-ro 1-gil 30, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04620 Republic of Korea ,grid.255168.d0000 0001 0671 5021Laboratory of Stem Cells & Gene Editing, Department of Chemistry, Dongguk University, Pildong-ro 1-gil 30, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04620 Republic of Korea
| | - Siyoung Kim
- grid.255168.d0000 0001 0671 5021Laboratory of Stem Cells & Gene Editing, Department of Chemistry, Dongguk University, Pildong-ro 1-gil 30, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04620 Republic of Korea
| | - Byounggook Cho
- grid.255168.d0000 0001 0671 5021Laboratory of Stem Cells & Gene Editing, Department of Chemistry, Dongguk University, Pildong-ro 1-gil 30, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04620 Republic of Korea
| | - Jaein Shin
- grid.255168.d0000 0001 0671 5021Laboratory of Stem Cells & Gene Editing, Department of Chemistry, Dongguk University, Pildong-ro 1-gil 30, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04620 Republic of Korea
| | - Jongpil Kim
- grid.255168.d0000 0001 0671 5021Department of Biomedical Engineering, Dongguk University, Pildong-ro 1-gil 30, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04620 Republic of Korea ,grid.255168.d0000 0001 0671 5021Laboratory of Stem Cells & Gene Editing, Department of Chemistry, Dongguk University, Pildong-ro 1-gil 30, Jung-Gu, Seoul, 04620 Republic of Korea
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25
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Sheridan SD, Horng JE, Perlis RH. Patient-Derived In Vitro Models of Microglial Function and Synaptic Engulfment in Schizophrenia. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 92:470-479. [PMID: 35232567 PMCID: PMC10039432 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Multiple lines of evidence implicate dysregulated microglia-mediated synaptic pruning in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. In vitro human cellular studies represent a promising means of pursuing this hypothesis, complementing efforts with animal models and postmortem human data while addressing their limitations. The challenges in culturing homogeneous populations of cells derived from postmortem or surgical biopsy brain material from patients, and their limited availability, has led to a focus on differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells. These methods too have limitations, in that they disrupt the epigenome and can demonstrate line-to-line variability due in part to extended time in culture, partial reprogramming, and/or residual epigenetic memory from the cell source, yielding large technical artifacts. Yet another strategy uses direct transdifferentiation of peripheral mononuclear blood cells, or umbilical cord blood cells, to microglia-like cells. Any of these approaches can be paired with patient-derived synaptosomes from differentiated neurons as a simpler alternative to co-culture. Patient-derived microglia models may facilitate identification of novel modulators of synaptic pruning and identification of biomarkers that may allow more targeted early interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Sheridan
- Center for Genomic Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joy E Horng
- Center for Genomic Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Roy H Perlis
- Center for Genomic Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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26
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Ji C, Deng C, Antor K, Bischler T, Schneider C, Fischer U, Sendtner M, Briese M. hnRNP
R negatively regulates transcription by modulating the association of
P‐TEFb
with
7SK
and
BRD4. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e55432. [PMID: 35856391 PMCID: PMC9442301 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202255432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Changhe Ji
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology University Hospital Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Chunchu Deng
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology University Hospital Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Katharina Antor
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology University Hospital Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Thorsten Bischler
- Core Unit Systems Medicine University of Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Cornelius Schneider
- Department of Biochemistry, Theodor Boveri Institute University of Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Utz Fischer
- Department of Biochemistry, Theodor Boveri Institute University of Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Michael Sendtner
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology University Hospital Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
| | - Michael Briese
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology University Hospital Wuerzburg Wuerzburg Germany
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27
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Hersbach BA, Fischer DS, Masserdotti G, Deeksha, Mojžišová K, Waltzhöni T, Rodriguez-Terrones D, Heinig M, Theis FJ, Götz M, Stricker SH. Probing cell identity hierarchies by fate titration and collision during direct reprogramming. Mol Syst Biol 2022; 18:e11129. [PMID: 36106915 PMCID: PMC9476893 DOI: 10.15252/msb.202211129] [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: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the therapeutic promise of direct reprogramming, basic principles concerning fate erasure and the mechanisms to resolve cell identity conflicts remain unclear. To tackle these fundamental questions, we established a single‐cell protocol for the simultaneous analysis of multiple cell fate conversion events based on combinatorial and traceable reprogramming factor expression: Collide‐seq. Collide‐seq revealed the lack of a common mechanism through which fibroblast‐specific gene expression loss is initiated. Moreover, we found that the transcriptome of converting cells abruptly changes when a critical level of each reprogramming factor is attained, with higher or lower levels not contributing to major changes. By simultaneously inducing multiple competing reprogramming factors, we also found a deterministic system, in which titration of fates against each other yields dominant or colliding fates. By investigating one collision in detail, we show that reprogramming factors can disturb cell identity programs independent of their ability to bind their target genes. Taken together, Collide‐seq has shed light on several fundamental principles of fate conversion that may aid in improving current reprogramming paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bob A Hersbach
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Biocenter, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - David S Fischer
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany.,Department of Informatics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Giacomo Masserdotti
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Deeksha
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Karolina Mojžišová
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Thomas Waltzhöni
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,Core Facility Genomics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Diego Rodriguez-Terrones
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Matthias Heinig
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,Department of Informatics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabian J Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany.,Department of Informatics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Excellence Cluster of Systems Neurology, Biomedical Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Magdalena Götz
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.,German Excellence Cluster of Systems Neurology, Biomedical Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan H Stricker
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Oberschleißheim, Germany.,Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
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28
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Inagaki E, Yoshimatsu S, Okano H. Accelerated neuronal aging in vitro ∼melting watch ∼. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:868770. [PMID: 36016855 PMCID: PMC9397486 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.868770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In developed countries, the aging of the population and the associated increase in age-related diseases are causing major unresolved medical, social, and environmental matters. Therefore, research on aging has become one of the most important and urgent issues in life sciences. If the molecular mechanisms of the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases are elucidated, we can expect to develop disease-modifying methods to prevent neurodegeneration itself. Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), there has been an explosion of disease models using disease-specific iPSCs derived from patient-derived somatic cells. By inducing the differentiation of iPSCs into neurons, disease models that reflect the patient-derived pathology can be reproduced in culture dishes, and are playing an active role in elucidating new pathological mechanisms and as a platform for new drug discovery. At the same time, however, we are faced with a new problem: how to recapitulate aging in culture dishes. It has been pointed out that cells differentiated from pluripotent stem cells are juvenile, retain embryonic traits, and may not be fully mature. Therefore, attempts are being made to induce cell maturation, senescence, and stress signals through culture conditions. It has also been reported that direct conversion of fibroblasts into neurons can reproduce human neurons with an aged phenotype. Here, we outline some state-of-the-art insights into models of neuronal aging in vitro. New frontiers in which stem cells and methods for inducing differentiation of tissue regeneration can be applied to aging research are just now approaching, and we need to keep a close eye on them. These models are forefront and intended to advance our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of aging and contribute to the development of novel therapies for human neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Inagaki
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sho Yoshimatsu
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Hideyuki Okano,
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29
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Shao X, Hu Z, Zhan Y, Ma W, Quan L, Lin Y. MiR‐26a‐tetrahedral
framework nucleic acids mediated osteogenesis of adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. Cell Prolif 2022; 55:e13272. [PMID: 35661456 PMCID: PMC9251048 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Delivery systems that provide time and space control have a good application prospect in tissue regeneration applications, as they can effectively improve the process of wound healing and tissue repair. In our experiments, we constructed a novel micro‐RNA delivery system by linking framework nucleic acid nanomaterials to micro‐RNAs to promote osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Materials and Methods To verify the successful preparation of tFNAs–miR‐26a, the size of tFNAs–miR‐26a were observed by non‐denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and dynamic light scattering techniques. The expression of osteogenic differentiation‐related genes and proteins was investigated by confocal microscope, PCR and western blot to detect the impact of tFNAs–miR‐26a on ADSCs. And finally, Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway related proteins and genes were detected by confocal microscope, PCR and western blot to study the relevant mechanism. Results By adding this novel complex, the osteogenic differentiation ability of mesenchymal stem cells was significantly improved, and the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) on the surface of the cell membrane and the formation of calcium nodules in mesenchymal stem cells were significantly increased on days 7 and 14 of induction of osteogenic differentiation, respectively. Gene and protein expression levels of ALP (an early marker associated with osteogenic differentiation), RUNX2 (a metaphase marker), and OPN (a late marker) were significantly increased. We also studied the relevant mechanism of action and found that the novel nucleic acid complex promoted osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells by activating the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Conclusions This study may provide a new research direction for the application of novel nucleic acid nanomaterials in bone tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoru Shao
- Department of Stomatology Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University Jining Shandong China
- College of TCM, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Jinan Shandong China
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China
| | - Zhong Hu
- Department of Stomatology Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University Jining Shandong China
| | - Yuxi Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China
| | - Wenjuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China
| | - Li Quan
- Business College China West Normal University Nanchong Sichuan China
- Sichuan Inspection and Testing Center for Dental Devices and Materials Ziyang Sichuan China
| | - Yunfeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China
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30
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Capano LS, Sato C, Ficulle E, Yu A, Horie K, Kwon JS, Burbach KF, Barthélemy NR, Fox SG, Karch CM, Bateman RJ, Houlden H, Morimoto RI, Holtzman DM, Duff KE, Yoo AS. Recapitulation of endogenous 4R tau expression and formation of insoluble tau in directly reprogrammed human neurons. Cell Stem Cell 2022; 29:918-932.e8. [PMID: 35659876 PMCID: PMC9176216 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Tau is a microtubule-binding protein expressed in neurons, and the equal ratios between 4-repeat (4R) and 3-repeat (3R) isoforms are maintained in normal adult brain function. Dysregulation of 3R:4R ratio causes tauopathy, and human neurons that recapitulate tau isoforms in health and disease will provide a platform for elucidating pathogenic processes involving tau pathology. We carried out extensive characterizations of tau isoforms expressed in human neurons derived by microRNA-induced neuronal reprogramming of adult fibroblasts. Transcript and protein analyses showed that miR neurons expressed all six isoforms with the 3R:4R isoform ratio equivalent to that detected in human adult brains. Also, miR neurons derived from familial tauopathy patients with a 3R:4R ratio altering mutation showed increased 4R tau and the formation of insoluble tau with seeding activity. Our results collectively demonstrate the utility of miRNA-induced neuronal reprogramming to recapitulate endogenous tau regulation comparable with the adult brain in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia S Capano
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Program in Molecular and Cell Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Chihiro Sato
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Elena Ficulle
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Anan Yu
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Rice Institute for Biomedical Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Kanta Horie
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Ji-Sun Kwon
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Program in Computational and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kyle F Burbach
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Program in Molecular Genetics and Genomics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Nicolas R Barthélemy
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Susan G Fox
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Rice Institute for Biomedical Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Celeste M Karch
- Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight ADRC, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Randall J Bateman
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight ADRC, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Henry Houlden
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Richard I Morimoto
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Rice Institute for Biomedical Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - David M Holtzman
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight ADRC, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Karen E Duff
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Andrew S Yoo
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight ADRC, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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31
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Pascale E, Caiazza C, Paladino M, Parisi S, Passaro F, Caiazzo M. MicroRNA Roles in Cell Reprogramming Mechanisms. Cells 2022; 11:940. [PMID: 35326391 PMCID: PMC8946776 DOI: 10.3390/cells11060940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell reprogramming is a groundbreaking technology that, in few decades, generated a new paradigm in biomedical science. To date we can use cell reprogramming to potentially generate every cell type by converting somatic cells and suitably modulating the expression of key transcription factors. This approach can be used to convert skin fibroblasts into pluripotent stem cells as well as into a variety of differentiated and medically relevant cell types, including cardiomyocytes and neural cells. The molecular mechanisms underlying such striking cell phenotypes are still largely unknown, but in the last decade it has been proven that cell reprogramming approaches are significantly influenced by non-coding RNAs. Specifically, this review will focus on the role of microRNAs in the reprogramming processes that lead to the generation of pluripotent stem cells, neurons, and cardiomyocytes. As highlighted here, non-coding RNA-forced expression can be sufficient to support some cell reprogramming processes, and, therefore, we will also discuss how these molecular determinants could be used in the future for biomedical purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Pascale
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (M.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Carmen Caiazza
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (M.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Martina Paladino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (M.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Silvia Parisi
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (M.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Fabiana Passaro
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (M.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Massimiliano Caiazzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (M.P.); (S.P.)
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
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32
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Abstract
Cellular identity is established through complex layers of genetic regulation, forged over a developmental lifetime. An expanding molecular toolbox is allowing us to manipulate these gene regulatory networks in specific cell types in vivo. In principle, if we found the right molecular tricks, we could rewrite cell identity and harness the rich repertoire of possible cellular functions and attributes. Recent work suggests that this rewriting of cell identity is not only possible, but that newly induced cells can mitigate disease phenotypes in animal models of major human diseases. So, is the sky the limit, or do we need to keep our feet on the ground? This Spotlight synthesises key concepts emerging from recent efforts to reprogramme cellular identity in vivo. We provide our perspectives on recent controversies in the field of glia-to-neuron reprogramming and identify important gaps in our understanding that present barriers to progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Leaman
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK.,MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Nicolás Marichal
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Benedikt Berninger
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK.,MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK.,Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz 55128, Germany.,The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
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33
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Direct neuronal reprogramming: Fast forward from new concepts toward therapeutic approaches. Neuron 2021; 110:366-393. [PMID: 34921778 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Differentiated cells have long been considered fixed in their identity. However, about 20 years ago, the first direct conversion of glial cells into neurons in vitro opened the field of "direct neuronal reprogramming." Since then, neuronal reprogramming has achieved the generation of fully functional, mature neurons with remarkable efficiency, even in diseased brain environments. Beyond their clinical implications, these discoveries provided basic insights into crucial mechanisms underlying conversion of specific cell types into neurons and maintenance of neuronal identity. Here we discuss such principles, including the importance of the starter cell for shaping the outcome of neuronal reprogramming. We further highlight technical concerns for in vivo reprogramming and propose a code of conduct to avoid artifacts and pitfalls. We end by pointing out next challenges for development of less invasive cell replacement therapies for humans.
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34
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Han JK, Shin Y, Kim HS. Direct Conversion of Cell Fate and Induced Endothelial Cells. Circ J 2021; 86:1925-1933. [PMID: 34732599 DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-21-0703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Advances in nuclear reprogramming technology have enabled the dedifferentiation and transdifferentiation of mammalian cells. Forced induction of the key transcription factors constituting a transcriptional network can convert cells back to their pluripotent status or directly to another cell fate without inducing pluripotency. To date, direct conversion to several cell types, including cardiomyocytes, various types of neurons, and pancreatic β-cells, has been reported. We previously demonstrated direct lineage reprogramming of adult fibroblasts into induced endothelial cells (iECs) in mice and humans. In contrast to induced pluripotent stem cells, for which there is consensus on the criteria defining pluripotency, such criteria have not yet been established in the field of direct conversion. We thus suggest that careful assessment of the status of converted cells using genetic and epigenetic profiling, various functional assays, and the use of multiple readouts is essential to determine successful conversion. As direct conversion does not go through pluripotent status, this technique can be utilized for therapeutic purposes without the risk of tumorigenesis. Further, direct conversion can be induced in vivo by gene delivery to the target tissue or organ in situ. Thus, direct conversion technology can be developed into cell therapy or gene therapy for regenerative purposes. Here, we review the potential and future directions of direct cell fate conversion and iECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Kyu Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, and Strategic Center of Cell and Bio Therapy for Heart, Diabetes and Cancer, Seoul National University Hospital
| | - Youngchul Shin
- Department of Internal Medicine, and Strategic Center of Cell and Bio Therapy for Heart, Diabetes and Cancer, Seoul National University Hospital
| | - Hyo-Soo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, and Strategic Center of Cell and Bio Therapy for Heart, Diabetes and Cancer, Seoul National University Hospital
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35
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Falk S, Han D, Karow M. Cellular identity through the lens of direct lineage reprogramming. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2021; 70:97-103. [PMID: 34333231 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2021.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Direct lineage reprogramming challenges our traditional view on basic aspects of cellular identity, and in particular on processes crucial for identity acquisition. This is partly because in direct lineage reprogramming but not during natural differentiation processes changing cellular identity can occur in the absence of mitosis. Only recently, technologies emerged to deconstruct the cellular and molecular processes governing the transitory states a cell passes through on the journey from its original identity to the new target cell fate. Here we discuss arising concepts on the nature of these transitory states and the challenges and decisions cells must conquer to reach their new cellular identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Falk
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Fahrstrasse 17, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Dandan Han
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Fahrstrasse 17, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marisa Karow
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Fahrstrasse 17, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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36
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Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by progressive neural loss, have been some of the most challenging medical problems in aging societies. Treatment strategies such as symptom management have little impact on dis-ease progression, while intervention with specific disease mechanisms may only slow down disease progression. One therapeutic strategy that has the potential to reverse the disease phenotype is to replenish neurons and re-build the pathway lost to degeneration. Although it is generally believed that the central nervous system has lost the capability to regenerate, increasing evidence indicates that the brain is more plastic than previously thought, containing perhaps the biggest repertoire of cells with latent neurogenic programs in the body. This review focuses on key advances in generating new neurons through in situ neuronal reprogramming, which is tied to fun-damental questions regarding adult neurogenesis, cell source, and mecha-nisms for neuronal reprogramming, as well as the ability of new neurons to integrate into the existing circuitry. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Genetics, Volume 55 is November 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Qian
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0651, USA;
| | - Xiang-Dong Fu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0651, USA;
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37
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Vasan L, Park E, David LA, Fleming T, Schuurmans C. Direct Neuronal Reprogramming: Bridging the Gap Between Basic Science and Clinical Application. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:681087. [PMID: 34291049 PMCID: PMC8287587 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.681087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct neuronal reprogramming is an innovative new technology that involves the conversion of somatic cells to induced neurons (iNs) without passing through a pluripotent state. The capacity to make new neurons in the brain, which previously was not achievable, has created great excitement in the field as it has opened the door for the potential treatment of incurable neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries such as stroke. These neurological disorders are associated with frank neuronal loss, and as new neurons are not made in most of the adult brain, treatment options are limited. Developmental biologists have paved the way for the field of direct neuronal reprogramming by identifying both intrinsic cues, primarily transcription factors (TFs) and miRNAs, and extrinsic cues, including growth factors and other signaling molecules, that induce neurogenesis and specify neuronal subtype identities in the embryonic brain. The striking observation that postmitotic, terminally differentiated somatic cells can be converted to iNs by mis-expression of TFs or miRNAs involved in neural lineage development, and/or by exposure to growth factors or small molecule cocktails that recapitulate the signaling environment of the developing brain, has opened the door to the rapid expansion of new neuronal reprogramming methodologies. Furthermore, the more recent applications of neuronal lineage conversion strategies that target resident glial cells in situ has expanded the clinical potential of direct neuronal reprogramming techniques. Herein, we present an overview of the history, accomplishments, and therapeutic potential of direct neuronal reprogramming as revealed over the last two decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmy Vasan
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eunjee Park
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Luke Ajay David
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Taylor Fleming
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Carol Schuurmans
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Biological Sciences Platform, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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38
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Briese M, Sendtner M. Keeping the balance: The noncoding RNA 7SK as a master regulator for neuron development and function. Bioessays 2021; 43:e2100092. [PMID: 34050960 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202100092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The noncoding RNA 7SK is a critical regulator of transcription by adjusting the activity of the kinase complex P-TEFb. Release of P-TEFb from 7SK stimulates transcription at many genes by promoting productive elongation. Conversely, P-TEFb sequestration by 7SK inhibits transcription. Recent studies have shown that 7SK functions are particularly important for neuron development and maintenance and it can thus be hypothesized that 7SK is at the center of many signaling pathways contributing to neuron function. 7SK activates neuronal gene expression programs that are key for terminal differentiation of neurons. Proteomics studies revealed a complex protein interactome of 7SK that includes several RNA-binding proteins. Some of these novel 7SK subcomplexes exert non-canonical cytosolic functions in neurons by regulating axonal mRNA transport and fine-tuning spliceosome production in response to transcription alterations. Thus, a picture emerges according to which 7SK acts as a multi-functional RNA scaffold that is integral for neuron homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Briese
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Sendtner
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
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39
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MiR-124 synergism with ELAVL3 enhances target gene expression to promote neuronal maturity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2015454118. [PMID: 34031238 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2015454118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuron-enriched microRNAs (miRNAs), miR-9/9* and miR-124 (miR-9/9*-124), direct cell fate switching of human fibroblasts to neurons when ectopically expressed by repressing antineurogenic genes. How these miRNAs function after the repression of fibroblast genes for neuronal fate remains unclear. Here, we identified targets of miR-9/9*-124 as reprogramming cells activate the neuronal program and reveal the role of miR-124 that directly promotes the expression of its target genes associated with neuronal development and function. The mode of miR-124 as a positive regulator is determined by the binding of both AGO and a neuron-enriched RNA-binding protein, ELAVL3, to target transcripts. Although existing literature indicates that miRNA-ELAVL family protein interaction can result in either target gene up-regulation or down-regulation in a context-dependent manner, we specifically identified neuronal ELAVL3 as the driver for miR-124 target gene up-regulation in neurons. In primary human neurons, repressing miR-124 and ELAVL3 led to the down-regulation of genes involved in neuronal function and process outgrowth and cellular phenotypes of reduced inward currents and neurite outgrowth. Our results highlight the synergistic role between miR-124 and RNA-binding proteins to promote target gene regulation and neuronal function.
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40
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Abstract
Direct cell fate conversion of human somatic cells into induced neurons (iNs) is often regarded as a highly concerted one-step process. In this issue of Cell Stem Cell, Cates et al. (2021) dissect the iN conversion trajectory into two largely independent steps and identify key players at each stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph R Herdy
- Neural Aging Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Biology, CMBI, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Austria; Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Lukas Karbacher
- Neural Aging Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Biology, CMBI, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jerome Mertens
- Neural Aging Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Biology, CMBI, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Austria; Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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41
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Kim KM, Thaqi M, Peterson DA, Marr RA. Induced Neurons for Disease Modeling and Repair: A Focus on Non-fibroblastic Cell Sources in Direct Reprogramming. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:658498. [PMID: 33777923 PMCID: PMC7995206 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.658498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct cellular reprogramming exhibits distinct advantages over reprogramming from an induced pluripotent stem cell intermediate. These include a reduced risk of tumorigenesis and the likely preservation of epigenetic data. In vitro direct reprogramming approaches primarily aim to model the pathophysiological development of neurological disease and identify therapeutic targets, while in vivo direct reprogramming aims to develop treatments for various neurological disorders, including cerebral injury and cancer. In both approaches, there is progress toward developing increased control of subtype-specific production of induced neurons. A majority of research primarily utilizes fibroblasts as the donor cells. However, there are a variety of other somatic cell types that have demonstrated the potential for reprogramming into induced neurons. This review highlights studies that utilize non-fibroblastic cell sources for reprogramming, such as astrocytes, olfactory ensheathing cells, peripheral blood cells, Müller glia, and more. We will examine benefits and obstructions for translation into therapeutics or disease modeling, as well as efficiency of the conversion. A summary of donor cells, induced neuron types, and methods of induction is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M. Kim
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Mentor Thaqi
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
- Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Daniel A. Peterson
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Robert A. Marr
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
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