1
|
Brenner LM, Meyer F, Yang H, Köhler AR, Bashtrykov P, Guo M, Jeltsch A, Lungu C, Olayioye MA. Repeat DNA methylation is modulated by adherens junction signaling. Commun Biol 2024; 7:286. [PMID: 38454140 PMCID: PMC10920906 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05990-4] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Through its involvement in gene transcription and heterochromatin formation, DNA methylation regulates how cells interact with their environment. Nevertheless, the extracellular signaling cues that modulate the distribution of this central chromatin modification are largely unclear. DNA methylation is highly abundant at repetitive elements, but its investigation in live cells has been complicated by methodological challenges. Utilizing a CRISPR/dCas9 biosensor that reads DNA methylation of human α-satellite repeats in live cells, we here uncover a signaling pathway linking the chromatin and transcriptional state of repetitive elements to epithelial adherens junction integrity. Specifically, we find that in confluent breast epithelial cell monolayers, α-satellite repeat methylation is reduced by comparison to low density cultures. This is coupled with increased transcriptional activity at repeats. Through comprehensive perturbation experiments, we identify the junctional protein E-cadherin, which links to the actin cytoskeleton, as a central molecular player for signal relay into the nucleus. Furthermore, we find that this pathway is impaired in cancer cells that lack E-cadherin and are not contact-inhibited. This suggests that the molecular connection between cell density and repetitive element methylation could play a role in the maintenance of epithelial tissue homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Marie Brenner
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Florian Meyer
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Haiqian Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, 02139, MA, USA
| | - Anja R Köhler
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Pavel Bashtrykov
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Ming Guo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, 02139, MA, USA
| | - Albert Jeltsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Cristiana Lungu
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
- Stuttgart Research Center Systems Biology (SRCSB), University of Stuttgart, Nobelstraße 15, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Monilola A Olayioye
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
- Stuttgart Research Center Systems Biology (SRCSB), University of Stuttgart, Nobelstraße 15, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sato Y, Nakao M, Kimura H. Live-Cell Imaging Probes to Track Chromatin Modification Dynamics. Microscopy (Oxf) 2021; 70:415-422. [PMID: 34329472 PMCID: PMC8491620 DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal organization of chromatin is regulated at different levels in the nucleus. Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation and histone modifications are involved in chromatin regulation and play fundamental roles in genome function. While the one-dimensional epigenomic landscape in many cell types has been revealed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing, the dynamic changes of chromatin modifications and their relevance to chromatin organization and genome function remain elusive. Live-cell probes to visualize chromatin and its modifications have become powerful tools to monitor dynamic chromatin regulation. Bulk chromatin can be visualized by both small fluorescent dyes and fluorescent proteins, and specific endogenous genomic loci have been detected by adapting genome-editing tools. To track chromatin modifications in living cells, various types of probes have been developed. Protein domains that bind weakly to specific modifications, such as chromodomains for histone methylation, can be repeated to create a tighter binding probe that can then be tagged with a fluorescent protein. It has also been demonstrated that antigen-binding fragments and single-chain variable fragments from modification-specific antibodies can serve as binding probes without disturbing cell division, development and differentiation. These modification-binding modules are used in modification sensors based on fluorescence/Förster resonance energy transfer to measure the intramolecular conformational changes triggered by modifications. Other probes can be created using a bivalent binding system, such as fluorescence complementation or luciferase chemiluminescence. Live-cell chromatin modification imaging using these probes will address dynamic chromatin regulation and will be useful for assaying and screening effective epigenome drugs in cells and organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Sato
- Cell Biology Center, Institute of Innovative Research, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8503, Japan.,School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8503, Japan
| | - Masaru Nakao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8503, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Cell Biology Center, Institute of Innovative Research, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8503, Japan.,School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, 226-8503, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Muñoz‐López Á, Jung A, Buchmuller B, Wolffgramm J, Maurer S, Witte A, Summerer D. Engineered TALE Repeats for Enhanced Imaging-Based Analysis of Cellular 5-Methylcytosine. Chembiochem 2021; 22:645-651. [PMID: 32991020 PMCID: PMC7894354 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Transcription-activator-like effectors (TALEs) are repeat-based, programmable DNA-binding proteins that can be engineered to recognize sequences of canonical and epigenetically modified nucleobases. Fluorescent TALEs can be used for the imaging-based analysis of cellular 5-methylcytosine (5 mC) in repetitive DNA sequences. This is based on recording fluorescence ratios from cell co-stains with two TALEs: an analytical TALE targeting the cytosine (C) position of interest through a C-selective repeat that is blocked by 5 mC, and a control TALE targeting the position with a universal repeat that binds both C and 5 mC. To enhance this approach, we report herein the development of novel 5 mC-selective repeats and their integration into TALEs that can replace universal TALEs in imaging-based 5 mC analysis, resulting in a methylation-dependent response of both TALEs. We screened a library of size-reduced repeats and identified several 5 mC binders. Compared to the 5 mC-binding repeat of natural TALEs and to the universal repeat, two repeats containing aromatic residues showed enhancement of 5 mC binding and selectivity in cellular transcription activation and electromobility shift assays, respectively. In co-stains of cellular SATIII DNA with a corresponding C-selective TALE, this selectivity results in a positive methylation response of the new TALE, offering perspectives for studying 5 mC functions in chromatin regulation by in situ imaging with increased dynamic range.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Muñoz‐López
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Strasse 644227DortmundGermany
| | - Anne Jung
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Strasse 644227DortmundGermany
| | - Benjamin Buchmuller
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Strasse 644227DortmundGermany
| | - Jan Wolffgramm
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Strasse 644227DortmundGermany
| | - Sara Maurer
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Strasse 644227DortmundGermany
| | - Anna Witte
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Strasse 644227DortmundGermany
| | - Daniel Summerer
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDortmund UniversityOtto-Hahn Strasse 644227DortmundGermany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Muñoz‐López Á, Buchmuller B, Wolffgramm J, Jung A, Hussong M, Kanne J, Schweiger MR, Summerer D. Designer Receptors for Nucleotide‐Resolution Analysis of Genomic 5‐Methylcytosine by Cellular Imaging. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202001935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Muñoz‐López
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology TU Dortmund University Otto-Hahn Str. 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
- International Max Planck Research School Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology Otto-Hahn Str. 10 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Benjamin Buchmuller
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology TU Dortmund University Otto-Hahn Str. 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
- International Max Planck Research School Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology Otto-Hahn Str. 10 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Jan Wolffgramm
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology TU Dortmund University Otto-Hahn Str. 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Anne Jung
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology TU Dortmund University Otto-Hahn Str. 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
| | - Michelle Hussong
- Department of Epigenetics and Tumor Biology, Medical Faculty University of Cologne Kerpener Str. 62 50937 Köln Germany
| | - Julian Kanne
- Department of Epigenetics and Tumor Biology, Medical Faculty University of Cologne Kerpener Str. 62 50937 Köln Germany
| | - Michal R. Schweiger
- Department of Epigenetics and Tumor Biology, Medical Faculty University of Cologne Kerpener Str. 62 50937 Köln Germany
| | - Daniel Summerer
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology TU Dortmund University Otto-Hahn Str. 6 44227 Dortmund Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Muñoz-López Á, Buchmuller B, Wolffgramm J, Jung A, Hussong M, Kanne J, Schweiger MR, Summerer D. Designer Receptors for Nucleotide-Resolution Analysis of Genomic 5-Methylcytosine by Cellular Imaging. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:8927-8931. [PMID: 32167219 PMCID: PMC7318601 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202001935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We report programmable receptors for the imaging‐based analysis of 5‐methylcytosine (5mC) in user‐defined DNA sequences of single cells. Using fluorescent transcription‐activator‐like effectors (TALEs) that can recognize sequences of canonical and epigenetic nucleobases through selective repeats, we imaged cellular SATIII DNA, the origin of nuclear stress bodies (nSB). We achieve high nucleobase selectivity of natural repeats in imaging and demonstrate universal nucleobase binding by an engineered repeat. We use TALE pairs differing in only one such repeat in co‐stains to detect 5mC in SATIII sequences with nucleotide resolution independently of differences in target accessibility. Further, we directly correlate the presence of heat shock factor 1 with 5mC at its recognition sequence, revealing a potential function of 5mC in its recruitment as initial step of nSB formation. This opens a new avenue for studying 5mC functions in chromatin regulation in situ with nucleotide, locus, and cell resolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Muñoz-López
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Str. 6, 44227, Dortmund, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Otto-Hahn Str. 10, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Benjamin Buchmuller
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Str. 6, 44227, Dortmund, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Otto-Hahn Str. 10, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jan Wolffgramm
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Str. 6, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Anne Jung
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Str. 6, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Michelle Hussong
- Department of Epigenetics and Tumor Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Köln, Germany
| | - Julian Kanne
- Department of Epigenetics and Tumor Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Köln, Germany
| | - Michal R Schweiger
- Department of Epigenetics and Tumor Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Köln, Germany
| | - Daniel Summerer
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn Str. 6, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Editing DNA Methylation in Mammalian Embryos. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020637. [PMID: 31963664 PMCID: PMC7014263 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation in mammals is essential for numerous biological functions, such as ensuring chromosomal stability, genomic imprinting, and X-chromosome inactivation through transcriptional regulation. Gene knockout of DNA methyltransferases and demethylation enzymes has made significant contributions to analyzing the functions of DNA methylation in development. By applying epigenome editing, it is now possible to manipulate DNA methylation in specific genomic regions and to understand the functions of these modifications. In this review, we first describe recent DNA methylation editing technology. We then focused on changes in DNA methylation status during mammalian gametogenesis and preimplantation development, and have discussed the implications of applying this technology to early embryos.
Collapse
|
7
|
Jeltsch A, Broche J, Lungu C, Bashtrykov P. Biotechnological Applications of MBD Domain Proteins for DNA Methylation Analysis. J Mol Biol 2019:S0022-2836(19)30544-3. [PMID: 31493411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
5-Methylcytosine binding domain (MBD) family proteins are essential readers of DNA methylation. Their methylation specific DNA binding has been exploited in the context of two main groups of important biotechnological applications. In the first, an MBD domain is used to bind methylated DNA in vitro. This can be employed for global DNA methylation analysis in MBD-seq assays, where methylated DNA is purified from fragmented genomic DNA by MBD pulldown or capture, followed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) and downstream data analysis as established for ChIP-seq applications. In addition, the ability of MBD domains to bind methylated DNA can be used for in vitro DNMT activity and inhibition assays. In the second type of applications, MBD domains are used to bind methylated DNA in cells. In MBD imaging, these domains are fused to fluorophores and expressed in cells, where they bind to methylated DNA allowing the readout of DNA methylation by fluorescence microscopy. This approach recently has been further developed to allow the locus-specific readout of DNA methylation using bimolecular fluorescence complementation-based bimolecular anchor detector sensors. These tools, which are compatible with live cell imaging, combine the sequence-specific DNA binding of anchor domains and the 5-methylcytosine-specific binding of an MBD domain to chromatin. Depending on the individual assay, MBD-based detection systems for DNA methylation provide important advantages, ranging from cost efficiency and easy workflows to unique opportunities for the readout of methylation levels in living cells with locus-specific resolution during organismic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert Jeltsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Julian Broche
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Cristiana Lungu
- Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Pavel Bashtrykov
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) is an epigenetic phenomenon that equalizes the number of X-linked gene products between male and female eutherian mammals by inactivating one of the two X chromosomes. XCI is essential for female mammalian development, and its failure can lead to embryonic death in mutant mice. The pattern of which X chromosome is inactivated changes dynamically during mouse embryogenesis, depending on developmental stages and tissues. Recent progress in molecular biology, including next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based analyses, enables the analysis of gene expression profiles at a single cell level. Combined with NGS technology, live imaging systems can now be used to track epigenetic events and clarify their casual and spatiotemporal relationships to cell differentiation and embryonic development. Here, I describe a novel live-cell imaging system based on "Momiji" mice for monitoring XCI at the single cell level.
Collapse
|
9
|
Nagashima K, Usui T, Baba T. Behavior of ACRBP-deficient mouse sperm in the female reproductive tract. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:97-102. [PMID: 30606959 PMCID: PMC6473115 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene-knockout mice lacking ACRBP, a proacrosin-binding protein localized in the acrosome of sperm, have been shown to exhibit male subfertility, owing to abnormal formation of the acrosome.
In this study, to elucidate the mechanism contributing to the subfertility phenotype, we examined the behavior of ACRBP-deficient mouse sperm in the female reproductive tract. When sperm
that had migrated into the uterus and oviduct after mating were counted, the number of ACRBP-deficient sperm was noticeably smaller in the oviduct of mice post mating. However,
ACRBP-deficient sperm recovered from the oviduct possessed morphologically normal head shape and retained normal motility. Importantly, ACRBP-deficient sperm displayed a marked reduction in
the ability to successfully gain access to unfertilized oocytes. These data suggest that male subfertility of ACRBP-deficient mice may be attributed to incompleteness of the acrosome
reaction rather than impairment in sperm migration from the uterus to the oviduct.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoshi Nagashima
- Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan.,Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Usui
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Tadashi Baba
- Ph.D. Program in Human Biology, School of Integrative and Global Majors, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan.,Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan.,Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ooga M, Funaya S, Aoki F, Wakayama T. Zygotic Fluorescence Recovery After Photo-bleaching Analysis for Chromatin Looseness That Allows Full-term Development. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29985353 DOI: 10.3791/57068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Live imaging is a powerful tool that allows for the analysis of molecular events during ontogenesis. Recently, chromatin looseness or openness has been shown to be involved in the cellular differentiation potential of pluripotent embryonic stem cells. It was previously reported that compared with embryonic stem cells, zygotes harbor an extremely loosened chromatin structure, suggesting its association with their totipotency. However, until now, it has not been addressed whether this extremely loosened/open chromatin structure is important for embryonic developmental potential. In the present study, to examine this hypothesis, an experimental system in which zygotes that were analyzed by fluorescence recovery after photo-bleaching can develop to term without any significant damage was developed. Importantly, this experimental system needs only a thermos-plate heater in addition to a confocal laser scanning microscope. The findings of this study suggest that fluorescence recovery after photo-bleaching analysis (FRAP) analysis can be used to investigate whether the molecular events in zygotic chromatin are important for full-term development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, University of Yamanashi; Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi;
| | - Satoshi Funaya
- Department of Integrated Bioscience, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo
| | - Fugaku Aoki
- Department of Integrated Bioscience, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, University of Yamanashi; Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kumar N, Hori Y, Kikuchi K. Live-Cell Imaging of DNA Methylation Based on Synthetic-Molecule/Protein Hybrid Probe. CHEM REC 2018; 18:1672-1680. [PMID: 29863802 DOI: 10.1002/tcr.201800039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The epigenetic modification of DNA involves the conversion of cytosine to 5-methylcytosine, also known as DNA methylation. DNA methylation is important in modulating gene expression and thus, regulating genome and cellular functions. Recent studies have shown that aberrations in DNA methylation are associated with various epigenetic disorders or diseases including cancer. This stimulates great interest in the development of methods that can detect and visualize DNA methylation. For instance, fluorescent proteins (FPs) in conjugation with methyl-CpG-binding domain (MBD) have been employed for live-cell imaging of DNA methylation. However, the FP-based approach showed fluorescence signals for both the DNA-bound and -unbound states and thus differentiation between these states is difficult. Synthetic-molecule/protein hybrid probes can provide an alternative to overcome this restriction. In this article, we discuss the synthetic-molecule/protein hybrid probe that we developed recently for live-cell imaging of DNA methylation, which exhibited fluorescence enhancement only after binding to methylated DNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Kumar
- Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Hori
- Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Immunology Fontier Research Center, Osaka University Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kikuchi
- Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Immunology Fontier Research Center, Osaka University Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tsuji S, Shinoda K, Futaki S, Imanishi M. Sequence-specific 5mC detection in live cells based on the TALE-split luciferase complementation system. Analyst 2018; 143:3793-3797. [DOI: 10.1039/c8an00562a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The newly developed TALE-split luciferase complementation system enabled sequence-specific 5mC detection of genomic DNA in live cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Tsuji
- Institute for Chemical Research
- Kyoto University
- Uji
- Japan
| | - Kouki Shinoda
- Institute for Chemical Research
- Kyoto University
- Uji
- Japan
| | - Shiroh Futaki
- Institute for Chemical Research
- Kyoto University
- Uji
- Japan
| | - Miki Imanishi
- Institute for Chemical Research
- Kyoto University
- Uji
- Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Muñoz-López Á, Summerer D. Recognition of Oxidized 5-Methylcytosine Derivatives in DNA by Natural and Engineered Protein Scaffolds. CHEM REC 2017; 18:105-116. [PMID: 29251421 DOI: 10.1002/tcr.201700088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Methylation of genomic cytosine to 5-methylcytosine is a central regulatory element of mammalian gene expression with important roles in development and disease. 5-methylcytosine can be actively reversed to cytosine via oxidation to 5-hydroxymethyl-, 5-formyl-, and 5-carboxylcytosine by ten-eleven-translocation dioxygenases and subsequent base excision repair or replication-dependent dilution. Moreover, the oxidized 5-methylcytosine derivatives are potential epigenetic marks with unique biological roles. Key to a better understanding of these roles are insights into the interactions of the nucleobases with DNA-binding protein scaffolds: Natural scaffolds involved in transcription, 5-methylcytosine-reading and -editing as well as general chromatin organization can be selectively recruited or repulsed by oxidized 5-methylcytosines, forming the basis of their biological functions. Moreover, designer protein scaffolds engineered for the selective recognition of oxidized 5-methylcytosines are valuable tools to analyze their genomic levels and distribution. Here, we review recent structural and functional insights into the molecular recognition of oxidized 5-methylcytosine derivatives in DNA by selected protein scaffolds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Muñoz-López
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn-Str. 4a, 44227, Dortmund
| | - Daniel Summerer
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Otto-Hahn-Str. 4a, 44227, Dortmund
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yoshida W, Baba Y, Banzawa K, Karube I. A quantitative homogeneous assay for global DNA methylation levels using CpG-binding domain- and methyl-CpG-binding domain-fused luciferase. Anal Chim Acta 2017; 990:168-173. [PMID: 29029740 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2017.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Global DNA methylation levels have been considered as biomarkers for cancer diagnostics because transposable elements that constitute approximately 45% of the human genome are hypomethylated in cancer cells. We have previously reported a homogeneous assay for measuring methylated CpG content of genomic DNA based on bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) using methyl-CpG-binding domain (MBD)-fused luciferase (MBD-luciferase). In this study, a homogeneous assay for measuring unmethylated CpG content of genomic DNA in the same platform was developed using CXXC domain-fused luciferase (CXXC-luciferase) that specifically recognizes unmethylated CpG. In this assay, CXXC-luciferase recognizes unmethylated CpG on genomic DNA, whereby BRET between luciferase and the fluorescent DNA intercalating dye is detected. We demonstrated that the BRET signal depended on the genomic DNA concentration (R2 = 0.99) and unmethylated CpG content determined by the bisulfite method (R2 = 0.97). There was a significant negative correlation between the BRET signal of the CXXC-luciferase-based assay and that of the MBD-luciferase-based assay (R2 = 0.92). Moreover, we demonstrated that the global DNA methylation level determined using the bisulfite method was dependent on the ratio of the BRET signal in the MBD-luciferase-based assay to the total BRET signal in the MBD-luciferase- and CXXC-luciferase-based assays (R2 = 0.99, relative standard deviation < 2.2%, and analysis speed < 35 min). These results demonstrated that global DNA methylation levels can be quantified by calculating the BRET signal ratio without any calibration curve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Yoshida
- School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, 1404-1 Katakuramachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0982, Japan.
| | - Yuji Baba
- School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, 1404-1 Katakuramachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0982, Japan.
| | - Kyoko Banzawa
- School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, 1404-1 Katakuramachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0982, Japan.
| | - Isao Karube
- School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Technology, 1404-1 Katakuramachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0982, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lungu C, Pinter S, Broche J, Rathert P, Jeltsch A. Modular fluorescence complementation sensors for live cell detection of epigenetic signals at endogenous genomic sites. Nat Commun 2017; 8:649. [PMID: 28935858 PMCID: PMC5608954 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-00457-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Investigation of the fundamental role of epigenetic processes requires methods for the locus-specific detection of epigenetic modifications in living cells. Here, we address this urgent demand by developing four modular fluorescence complementation-based epigenetic biosensors for live-cell microscopy applications. These tools combine engineered DNA-binding proteins with domains recognizing defined epigenetic marks, both fused to non-fluorescent fragments of a fluorescent protein. The presence of the epigenetic mark at the target DNA sequence leads to the reconstitution of a functional fluorophore. With this approach, we could for the first time directly detect DNA methylation and histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation at endogenous genomic sites in live cells and follow dynamic changes in these marks upon drug treatment, induction of epigenetic enzymes and during the cell cycle. We anticipate that this versatile technology will improve our understanding of how specific epigenetic signatures are set, erased and maintained during embryonic development or disease onset.Tools for imaging epigenetic modifications can shed light on the regulation of epigenetic processes. Here, the authors present a fluorescence complementation approach for detection of DNA and histone methylation at endogenous genomic sites allowing following of dynamic changes of these marks by live-cell microscopy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Lungu
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sabine Pinter
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Julian Broche
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Philipp Rathert
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Albert Jeltsch
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, Stuttgart University, Allmandring 31, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yamazaki T, Hatano Y, Handa T, Kato S, Hoida K, Yamamura R, Fukuyama T, Uematsu T, Kobayashi N, Kimura H, Yamagata K. Targeted DNA methylation in pericentromeres with genome editing-based artificial DNA methyltransferase. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177764. [PMID: 28542388 PMCID: PMC5436701 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
To study the impact of epigenetic changes on biological functions, the ability to manipulate the epigenetic status of certain genomic regions artificially could be an indispensable technology. “Epigenome editing” techniques have gradually emerged that apply TALE or CRISPR/Cas9 technologies with various effector domains isolated from epigenetic code writers or erasers such as DNA methyltransferase, 5-methylcytosine oxidase, and histone modification enzymes. Here we demonstrate that a TALE recognizing a major satellite, consisting of a repeated sequence in pericentromeres, could be fused with the bacterial CpG methyltransferase, SssI. ChIP-qPCR assays demonstrated that the fusion protein TALMaj-SssI preferentially bound to major chromosomal satellites in cultured cell lines. Then, TALMaj-SssI was expressed in fertilized mouse oocytes with hypomethylated major satellites (10–20% CpG islands). Bisulfite sequencing revealed that the DNA methylation status was increased specifically in major satellites (50–60%), but not in minor satellites or other repeat elements, such as Intracisternal A-particle (IAP) or long interspersed nuclear elements-1 (Line1) when the expression level of TALMaj-SssI is optimized in the cell. At a microscopic level, distal ends of chromosomes at the first mitotic stage were dramatically highlighted by the mCherry-tagged methyl CpG binding domain of human MBD1 (mCherry-MBD-NLS). Moreover, targeted DNA methylation to major satellites did not interfere with kinetochore function during early embryonic cleavages. Co-injection of dCas9 fused with SssI and guide RNA (gRNA) recognizing major satellite sequences enabled increment of the DNA methylation in the satellites, but a few off-target effects were also observed in minor satellites and retrotransposons. Although CRISPR can be applied instead of the TALE system, technical improvements to reduce off-target effects are required. We have demonstrated a new method of introducing DNA methylation without the need of other binding partners using the CpG methyltransferase, SssI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taiga Yamazaki
- Division of Biomedical Research, Kitasato University Medical Center, Kitasato University, Kitamoto, Saitama, Japan
- * E-mail: (TY); (KY)
| | - Yu Hatano
- Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, KINDAI University, Kinokawa, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Handa
- Cell Biology Unit, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Sakiko Kato
- Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, KINDAI University, Kinokawa, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Kensuke Hoida
- Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, KINDAI University, Kinokawa, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Rui Yamamura
- Division of Biomedical Research, Kitasato University Medical Center, Kitasato University, Kitamoto, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takashi Fukuyama
- Division of Biomedical Research, Kitasato University Medical Center, Kitasato University, Kitamoto, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takayuki Uematsu
- Division of Biomedical Research, Kitasato University Medical Center, Kitasato University, Kitamoto, Saitama, Japan
| | - Noritada Kobayashi
- Division of Biomedical Research, Kitasato University Medical Center, Kitasato University, Kitamoto, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Cell Biology Unit, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuo Yamagata
- Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, KINDAI University, Kinokawa, Wakayama, Japan
- * E-mail: (TY); (KY)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Time-lapse embryo imaging and morphokinetic profiling: Towards a general characterisation of embryogenesis. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 174:2-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
18
|
Li Y, Seah MKY, O'Neill C. Mapping global changes in nuclear cytosine base modifications in the early mouse embryo. Reproduction 2016; 151:83-95. [PMID: 26660107 PMCID: PMC4676261 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Reprogramming epigenetic modifications to cytosine is required for normal embryo development. We used improved immunolocalization techniques to simultaneously map global changes in the levels of 5'-methylcytosine (5meC) and 5'-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) in each cell of the embryo from fertilization through the first rounds of cellular differentiation. The male and female pronuclei of the zygote showed similar staining levels, and these remained elevated over the next three cell cycles. The inner cells of the morula showed a progressive reduction in global levels of both 5meC and 5hmC and further losses occurred in the pluripotent inner cell mass (ICM) of the blastocyst. This was accompanied by undetectable levels of DNA methyltransferase of each class in the nuclei of the ICM, while DNA methyltransferase 3B was elevated in the hypermethylated nuclei of the trophectoderm (TE). Segregation of the ICM into hypoblast and epiblast was accompanied by increased levels in the hypoblast compared with the epiblast. Blastocyst outgrowth in vitro is a model for implantation and showed that a demethylated state persisted in the epiblast while the hypoblast had higher levels of both 5meC and 5hmC staining. The high levels of 5meC and 5hmC evident in the TE persisted in trophoblast and trophoblast giant cells after attachment of the blastocyst to the substratum in vitro. This study shows that global cytosine hypomethylation and hypohydroxymethylation accompanied the formation of the pluripotent ICM and this persisted into the epiblast after blastocyst outgrowth, and each differentiated lineage formed in the early embryo showed higher global levels of 5meC and 5hmC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Li
- Centre for Developmental and Regenerative MedicineKolling Institute for Medical Research, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - Michelle K Y Seah
- Centre for Developmental and Regenerative MedicineKolling Institute for Medical Research, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - C O'Neill
- Centre for Developmental and Regenerative MedicineKolling Institute for Medical Research, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Biogenesis of sperm acrosome is regulated by pre-mRNA alternative splicing of Acrbp in the mouse. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E3696-705. [PMID: 27303034 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1522333113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper biogenesis of a sperm-specific organelle, the acrosome, is essential for gamete interaction. An acrosomal matrix protein, ACRBP, is known as a proacrosin-binding protein. In mice, two forms of ACRBP, wild-type ACRBP-W and variant ACRBP-V5, are generated by pre-mRNA alternative splicing of Acrbp Here, we demonstrate the functional roles of these two ACRBP proteins. ACRBP-null male mice lacking both proteins showed a severely reduced fertility, because of malformation of the acrosome. Notably, ACRBP-null spermatids failed to form a large acrosomal granule, leading to the fragmented structure of the acrosome. The acrosome malformation was rescued by transgenic expression of ACRBP-V5 in ACRBP-null spermatids. Moreover, exogenously expressed ACRBP-W blocked autoactivation of proacrosin in the acrosome. Thus, ACRBP-V5 functions in the formation and configuration of the acrosomal granule during early spermiogenesis. The major function of ACRBP-W is to retain the inactive status of proacrosin in the acrosome until acrosomal exocytosis.
Collapse
|
20
|
Ishikawa Y, Usui T, Yamashita M, Kanemori Y, Baba T. Surfing and Swimming of Ejaculated Sperm in the Mouse Oviduct1. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:89. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.135418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
|
21
|
Kurotaki YK, Hatanaka Y, Kamimura S, Oikawa M, Inoue H, Ogonuki N, Inoue K, Ogura A. Impaired active DNA demethylation in zygotes generated by round spermatid injection. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1178-87. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
|
22
|
Mizutani E, Oikawa M, Kassai H, Inoue K, Shiura H, Hirasawa R, Kamimura S, Matoba S, Ogonuki N, Nagatomo H, Abe K, Wakayama T, Aiba A, Ogura A. Generation of Cloned Mice from Adult Neurons by Direct Nuclear Transfer1. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:81. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.123455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
|
23
|
Okamoto A. DNA-Osmium Complexes: Recent Developments in the Operative Chemical Analysis of DNA Epigenetic Modifications. ChemMedChem 2014; 9:1958-65. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201402114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
24
|
Miyagaki Y, Kanemori Y, Tanaka F, Baba T. Possible role of p38 MAPK-MNK1-EMI2 cascade in metaphase-II arrest of mouse oocytes. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:45. [PMID: 24920040 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.116962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The Mos-MAPK signaling pathway involving the Mos-MEK1/2-ERK1/2-RSK1/2/3 or MSK1-EMI2 cascade is directly linked to metaphase-II arrest of vertebrate oocytes. In this study, we examined whether p38, a member of the MAPK subfamily, is regulated under the control of Mos and contributes to metaphase-II arrest in the mouse oocyte. Morpholino oligonucleotide-mediated depletion of Mos revealed a remarkable decrease in phosphorylation of p38. Simultaneous treatment of oocytes with two chemical inhibitors of p38 and MEK1/2 induced both release from metaphase II and degradation of cyclin B1, whereas the treatment with each of these two inhibitors had little effect. Moreover, phosphorylation of EMI2 was dramatically abolished by addition of the two inhibitors. Indeed, MNK1, a kinase downstream of p38, exhibited the ability to phosphorylate EMI2. These results suggest that in addition to the Mos-MEK1/2 pathway, the Mos-mediated p38 pathway may be implicated in metaphase-II arrest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Miyagaki
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kanemori
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Fumi Tanaka
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tadashi Baba
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki, Japan Life Science Center of Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ueda J, Maehara K, Mashiko D, Ichinose T, Yao T, Hori M, Sato Y, Kimura H, Ohkawa Y, Yamagata K. Heterochromatin dynamics during the differentiation process revealed by the DNA methylation reporter mouse, MethylRO. Stem Cell Reports 2014; 2:910-24. [PMID: 24936475 PMCID: PMC4050349 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Revised: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, DNA is methylated at CpG sites, which play pivotal roles in gene silencing and chromatin organization. Furthermore, DNA methylation undergoes dynamic changes during development, differentiation, and in pathological processes. The conventional methods represent snapshots; therefore, the dynamics of this marker within living organisms remains unclear. To track this dynamics, we made a knockin mouse that expresses a red fluorescent protein (RFP)-fused methyl-CpG-binding domain (MBD) protein from the ROSA26 locus ubiquitously; we named it MethylRO (methylation probe in ROSA26 locus). Using this mouse, we performed RFP-mediated methylated DNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeDIP-seq), whole-body section analysis, and live-cell imaging. We discovered that mobility and pattern of heterochromatin as well as DNA methylation signal intensity inside the nuclei can be markers for cellular differentiation status. Thus, the MethylRO mouse represents a powerful bioresource and technique for DNA methylation dynamics studies in developmental biology, stem cell biology, as well as in disease states. Changes in DNA methylation are tracked in living mice Heterochromatin structure changes dynamically during development and differentiation Heterochromatin of preimplantation embryonic cells is highly dynamic than ESCs Heterochromatin pattern in nucleus can be a marker for cell differentiation states
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ueda
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kazumitsu Maehara
- Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives, JST-CREST, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Daisuke Mashiko
- Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takako Ichinose
- Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives, JST-CREST, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Tatsuma Yao
- Research and Development Center, Fuso Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., Osaka 536-8523, Japan
| | - Mayuko Hori
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuko Sato
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Ohkawa
- Department of Advanced Medical Initiatives, JST-CREST, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuo Yamagata
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Beaujean N. Histone post-translational modifications in preimplantation mouse embryos and their role in nuclear architecture. Mol Reprod Dev 2013; 81:100-12. [PMID: 24150914 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, epigenetic modifications are globally rearranged after fertilization, when gametes fuse to form the embryo. While gametes carry special epigenetic signatures and a unique nuclear organization, they attain embryo-specific patterns after fertilization. This "reprogramming" is promoted by intimate contact between the parental inherited genomes and the oocyte cytoplasm over the first cell cycles of development. Although the mechanisms of this reprogramming remain poorly understood, it appears that the particular epigenetic landscape established after fertilization is essential for further development. This review looks at histone post-translational modifications, focusing on their functions in chromatin organization and their role in nuclear architecture during mouse embryonic development. Epigenetic changes linked to the use of assisted reproductive technologies are also considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Beaujean
- UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, INRA Domaine de Vilvert, Jouy-en-Josas, France; ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Li Y, Miyanari Y, Shirane K, Nitta H, Kubota T, Ohashi H, Okamoto A, Sasaki H. Sequence-specific microscopic visualization of DNA methylation status at satellite repeats in individual cell nuclei and chromosomes. Nucleic Acids Res 2013; 41:e186. [PMID: 23990328 PMCID: PMC3799461 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylation-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization (MeFISH) was developed for microscopic visualization of DNA methylation status at specific repeat sequences in individual cells. MeFISH is based on the differential reactivity of 5-methylcytosine and cytosine in target DNA for interstrand complex formation with osmium and bipyridine-containing nucleic acids (ICON). Cell nuclei and chromosomes hybridized with fluorescence-labeled ICON probes for mouse major and minor satellite repeats were treated with osmium for crosslinking. After denaturation, fluorescent signals were retained specifically at satellite repeats in wild-type, but not in DNA methyltransferase triple-knockout (negative control) mouse embryonic stem cells. Moreover, using MeFISH, we successfully detected hypomethylated satellite repeats in cells from patients with immunodeficiency, centromeric instability and facial anomalies syndrome and 5-hydroxymethylated satellite repeats in male germ cells, the latter of which had been considered to be unmethylated based on anti-5-methylcytosine antibody staining. MeFISH will be suitable for a wide range of applications in epigenetics research and medical diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Li
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, and Epigenome Network Research Center, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan, The Cancer Institute, Tangshan People's Hospital, Hebei 063001, China, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Université de Strasbourg, F-67404 Illkirch, Cité Universitaire de Strasbourg, France, Department of Epigenetics Medicine, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan, Division of Medical Genetics, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama 339-8551, Japan and Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Kanemori Y, Ryu JH, Sudo M, Niida-Araida Y, Kodaira K, Takenaka M, Kohno N, Sugiura S, Kashiwabara SI, Baba T. Two Functional Forms of ACRBP/sp32 Are Produced by Pre-mRNA Alternative Splicing in the Mouse1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:105. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.107425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
|
29
|
Yamagata K, Ueda J. Long-term live-cell imaging of mammalian preimplantation development and derivation process of pluripotent stem cells from the embryos. Dev Growth Differ 2013; 55:378-89. [PMID: 23495974 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a process in which two highly specialized haploid gametes unite and endow totipotency to the resulting diploid zygote. This is followed by cell proliferation and the onset of differentiation during the brief period leading up to implantation. In these processes, a number of cellular components and structures are regulated spatially and temporally, as seen in repeated cell division, cell cycle progression, and epigenetic reprogramming. In mammals, the numbers of oocytes and embryos that can be collected are very limited. Therefore, analyses of molecular mechanisms are hampered because of difficulties in conducting biochemical analyses on such limited material. Furthermore, immunostaining methods require cell fixation and are insufficient for understanding ontogeny, because the processes observed in fertilization and early embryonic development progress in time-dependent manners and each phenomenon is connected with others by cause-and-effect relationships. Consequently, it is important to develop an experimental system that enables molecular imaging without affecting embryonic development. To achieve the above advantages, especially retrospective and prospective analyses, we have established a live-cell imaging system that enables observations under minimally invasive conditions. Using this approach, we have succeeded in visualizing and predicting the developmental potential of embryos after various perturbations. We also succeeded in imaging embryonic stem (ES) cell derivation in natural conditions. In this review, we describe a brief history of embryonic imaging and detailed protocols. We also discuss promising aspects of imaging in the fields of developmental and stem cell biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Yamagata
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Epigenetics in fertilization and preimplantation embryo development. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 113:423-32. [PMID: 23454467 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2012] [Revised: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic reprogramming of the parental genomes upon fertilization is required for proper embryonic development. It has long been appreciated that asymmetric distribution of histone modifications as well as differences in the level of DNA methylation exist between the parental pronuclei in mammalian zygotes and during preimplantation development. The speed at which the paternal genome is demethylated after entering the oocyte and the fact that rapid demethylation occurs in the absence of DNA replication have led many to hypothesize that a DNA demethylase must exist. However, such an enzyme has not been found. That the genome of mammalian preimplantation embryos undergo a wave of global demethylation was first reported 25 years ago but only in the past three years has data surfaced that can partially explain the elusive nature of this phenomenon. In addition to the global reorganization of the methylation and histone modification patterns, oocyte development prior to germinal vesicle breakdown involves the production of numerous small RNA, including miRNA. Despite their presence, miRNA functional activity is thought to be limited in the mature mouse oocyte. Additionally, molecular signatures in the 3' untranslated region of maternally expressed transcripts may impact mRNA stability during the transcriptionally quiescent period following germinal vesicle breakdown and prior to the maternal to zygote transition. In this review, we reference some of the recent works which attempt to shed light into the importance of the dynamic epigenetic landscape observed during oocyte maturation and preimplantation embryo development in mammals.
Collapse
|
31
|
Mason K, Liu Z, Aguirre-Lavin T, Beaujean N. Chromatin and epigenetic modifications during early mammalian development. Anim Reprod Sci 2012; 134:45-55. [PMID: 22921722 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, the embryonic genome is transcriptionally inactive after fertilization and embryonic gene expression is initiated during the preimplantation developmental period, during so-called "embryonic genome activation (EGA)". EGA is dependent on the presence of the basal transcriptional machinery components but also on the parental genome reorganization after fertilization. Indeed, during the first cell cycles, the embryonic nuclei undergo intense remodelling that participates in the regulation of embryonic development. Among the mechanisms of this remodeling, it appears that modifications of epigenetic marks are essential especially at the time of embryonic genome activation. This review will focus on DNA methylation and histone modifications such as acetylation or methylation which are important to produce healthy embryos. We will also consider nuclear higher-order structures, such as chromosomes territories and pericentric heterochromatin clusters. The relevance of these chromatin epigenetic modifications has been sustained by the work performed on cloned embryos produced through nuclear transfer of somatic donor cells. It is indeed believed that incomplete reprogramming of the somatic nucleus, in other words, the incomplete re-establishment of the embryonic epigenetic patterns and peculiar nuclear organization may be among the causes of development failure of cloned animals. This will also be discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karlla Mason
- INRA, UMR 1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy en Josas, France
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Salvaing J, Aguirre-Lavin T, Boulesteix C, Lehmann G, Debey P, Beaujean N. 5-Methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine spatiotemporal profiles in the mouse zygote. PLoS One 2012; 7:e38156. [PMID: 22693592 PMCID: PMC3364968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0038156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 05/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the mouse zygote, DNA methylation patterns are heavily modified, and differ between the maternal and paternal pronucleus. Demethylation of the paternal genome has been described as an active and replication-independent process, although the mechanisms responsible for it remain elusive. Recently, 5-hydroxymethylcytosine has been suggested as an intermediate in this demethylation. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS In this study, we quantified DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation in both pronuclei of the mouse zygote during the replication period and we examined their patterns on the pericentric heterochromatin using 3D immuno-FISH. Our results demonstrate that 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine localizations on the pericentric sequences are not complementary; indeed we observe no enrichment of either marks on some regions and an enrichment of both on others. In addition, we show that DNA demethylation continues during DNA replication, and is inhibited by aphidicolin. Finally, we observe notable differences in the kinetics of demethylation and hydroxymethylation; in particular, a peak of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, unrelated to any change in 5-methylcytosine level, is observed after completion of replication. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Together our results support the already proposed hypothesis that 5-hydroxymethylcytosine is not a simple intermediate in an active demethylation process and could play a role of its own during early development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Salvaing
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mizutani E, Yamagata K, Ono T, Akagi S, Geshi M, Wakayama T. Abnormal chromosome segregation at early cleavage is a major cause of the full-term developmental failure of mouse clones. Dev Biol 2012; 364:56-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2011] [Revised: 12/27/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
|
34
|
Miyagaki Y, Kanemori Y, Baba T. Possible involvement of mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1, MSK1, in metaphase-II arrest through phosphorylation of EMI2 in mouse oocytes. Dev Biol 2011; 359:73-81. [PMID: 21924255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2011.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2011] [Revised: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Ovulated oocytes are arrested at the metaphase of second meiotic division. The metaphase-II arrest in Xenopus oocytes is regulated by RSKs located downstream of the Mos-MAPK pathway. In mice, other kinase(s) besides RSKs may be responsible for the metaphase-II arrest, because RSK1/RSK2/RSK3-triple knockout mice exhibit no obvious phenotype. Here, we show the subcellular localization and possible role of mitogen- and stress-activated kinase 1, MSK1 known as another downstream kinase of the Mos-MAPK pathway, in the mouse oocytes. Immunostaining analysis indicated that MSK1 is present in the germinal vesicle (GV) and cytoplasm of oocytes at the GV and metaphase-II stages, respectively. An active, phosphorylated form of MSK1 was predominantly localized to the metaphase-II spindle. The inhibition of the MSK1 activity failed to maintain the sister chromatid alignment within the metaphase-II plate. Importantly, MSK1 exhibited the ability to phosphorylate four Ser/Thr residues of meiotic cell-cycle regulator EMI2. The phosphorylation was required for up-regulation of the EMI2 activity in the oocytes. These results suggest that mouse MSK1 may play a key role in the metaphase-II arrest through phosphorylation of EMI2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Miyagaki
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kanemori
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Tadashi Baba
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Interspecies intracytoplasmic sperm injection has been carried out to understand species-specific differences in oocyte environments and sperm components during fertilization. While sperm aster organization during cat fertilization requires a paternally derived centriole, mouse and hamster fertilization occur within the maternal centrosomal components. To address the questions of where sperm aster assembly occurs and whether complete fertilization is achieved in cat oocytes by interspecies sperm, we studied the fertilization processes of cat oocytes following the injection of cat, mouse, or hamster sperm. Male and female pronuclear formations were not different in the cat oocytes at 6 h following cat, mouse or hamster sperm injection. Microtubule asters were seen in all oocytes following intracytoplasmic injection of cat, mouse or hamster sperm. Immunocytochemical staining with a histone H3-m2K9 antibody revealed that mouse sperm chromatin is incorporated normally with cat egg chromatin, and that the cat eggs fertilized with mouse sperm enter metaphase and become normal 2-cell stage embryos. These results suggest that sperm aster formation is maternally dependent, and that fertilization processes and cleavage occur in a non-species specific manner in cat oocytes.
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhou FC, Chen Y, Love A. Cellular DNA methylation program during neurulation and its alteration by alcohol exposure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 91:703-15. [PMID: 21630420 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.20820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2010] [Revised: 02/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/04/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic changes are believed to be among the earliest key regulators for cell fate and embryonic development. To support this premise, it is important to understand whether or not systemic epigenetic changes coordinate with the progression of development. We have demonstrated that DNA methylation is programmed when neural stem cells differentiate (Zhou et al.,2011). Here, we analyzed the DNA methylation events that occur during early neural tube development. METHODS AND RESULTS Using immunocytochemistry, we demonstrated that the DNA methylation marks - 5-methylcytosine (5-MeC), DNA methylation binding domain 1 (MBD1), and DNA methytransferases 1 (DNMT1) were highly coordinated in temporal and spatial patterns that paralleled the progress of embryonic development. The above ontogenic program of DNA methylation was, however, subjected to environmental modification. Alcohol exposure during fetal development, which is known to cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, altered the density and distribution of the DNA methylation marks. The alcohol exposure (88 mM) over 6 or 44 hours at gestation day 8 (GD-8) to GD-10 altered timely DNA methylation and retarded embryonic growth. We further demonstrated that the direct inhibiting of DNA methylation with 5-aza-cytidine (5-AZA) resulted in similar growth retardation. CONCLUSIONS We identified a temporal and spatial cellular DNA methylation program after initial erasure, which parallels embryonic maturation. Alcohol delayed the cellular DNA methylation program and also retarded embryonic growth. Since direct inhibiting of DNA methylation resulted in similar retardation, alcohol thus can affect embryonic development through a epigenetic pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng C Zhou
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Yamagata K, Okada Y. Understanding paternal genome demethylation through live-cell imaging and siRNA. Cell Mol Life Sci 2011; 68:1669-79. [PMID: 21234640 PMCID: PMC11114819 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-010-0623-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2010] [Revised: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 12/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Identification of a DNA demethylase responsible for zygotic paternal DNA demethylation has been one of the most challenging goals in the field of epigenetics. Several candidate molecules have been proposed, but their involvement in the demethylation remains controversial, partly due to the difficulty of preparing a sufficient quantity of materials for biochemical analysis. In this review, we utilize a recently developed method for live-cell imaging of mouse zygotes combined with RNA interference (RNAi) to search for factors that affect zygotic paternal DNA demethylation. The combined use of various fluorescent probes and RNAi is a useful approach for the study of not only DNA demethylation but also the spatiotemporal dynamics of histone depositions in zygotes, although it is not appropriate for large-scale screening or knockdown of genes that are abundantly expressed before fertilization. This new technique enables us to understand the epigenetic hierarchy during cellular response and differentiation in preimplantation embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Yamagata
- Laboratory for Genomic Reprogramming, Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0047 Japan
| | - Yuki Okada
- Career-Path Promotion Unit for Young Life Scientists, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), 4-1-8 Honcho Kawaguchi, Saitama, 332-0012 Japan
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Xu YN, Cui XS, Tae JC, Jin YX, Kim NH. DNA synthesis and epigenetic modification during mouse oocyte fertilization by human or hamster sperm injection. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 28:325-33. [PMID: 21107900 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9509-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2010] [Accepted: 11/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate DNA synthesis and epigenetic modification in mouse oocytes during the first cell cycle following the injection of human or hamster sperm. METHODS Mouse oocytes following the injection of human and hamster sperm and cultured in M16 medium. RESULTS Male and female pronucleus formation, DNA synthesis, histone protein modification, and heterochromatin formation were similar in mouse oocytes injected with human or hamster sperm. However, DNA methylation patterns were altered in mouse oocytes following human sperm injection. Immunocytochemical staining with a histone H3-MeK9 antibody revealed that human and hamster sperm chromatin associated normally with female mouse chromatin, then entered into the metaphase and formed normal, two-cell stage embryos. CONCLUSIONS Although differences in epigenetic modification of DNA were observed, fertilization and cleavage occurred in a species non-specific manner in mouse oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Nan Xu
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Gaesin-dong, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, South Korea
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Kimura H, Hayashi-Takanaka Y, Yamagata K. Visualization of DNA methylation and histone modifications in living cells. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2010; 22:412-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2010.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2010] [Revised: 02/10/2010] [Accepted: 02/11/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
40
|
OGUSHI S, SAITOU M. The nucleolus in the mouse oocyte is required for the early step of both female and male pronucleus organization. J Reprod Dev 2010; 56:495-501. [PMID: 20519829 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.09-184h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
During oocyte growth in the ovary, the nucleolus is mainly responsible for ribosome biogenesis. However, in the fully-grown oocyte, all transcription ceases, including ribosomal RNA synthesis, and the nucleolus adopts a specific monotonous fibrillar morphology without chromatin. The function of this inactive nucleolus in oocytes and embryos is still unknown. We previously reported that the embryo lacking an inactive nucleolus failed to develop past the first few cleavages, indicating the requirement of a nucleolus for preimplantation development. Here, we reinjected the nucleolus into oocytes and zygotes without nucleoli at various time points to examine the timing of the nucleolus requirement during meiosis and early embryonic development. When we put the nucleolus back into oocytes lacking a nucleolus at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage and at second metaphase (MII), these oocytes were fertilized, formed pronuclei with nucleoli and developed to full term. When the nucleolus was reinjected at the pronucleus (PN) stage, most of the reconstructed zygotes cleaved and formed nuclei with nucleoli at the 2-cell stage, but the rate of blastocyst formation and the numbers of surviving pups were profoundly reduced. Moreover, the zygotes without nucleoli showed a disorder of higher chromatin organization not only in the female pronucleus but also, interestingly, in the male pronucleus. Thus, the critical time point when the nucleolus is required for progression of early embryonic development appears to be at the point of the early step of pronucleus organization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sugako OGUSHI
- RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Japan.
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Kawano N, Kang W, Yamashita M, Koga Y, Yamazaki T, Hata T, Miyado K, Baba T. Mice lacking two sperm serine proteases, ACR and PRSS21, are subfertile, but the mutant sperm are infertile in vitro. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:359-69. [PMID: 20484738 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.083089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Although sperm serine protease and proteasome have long been believed to play an important role in the fertilization process, the molecular mechanism is still controversial. In this study, we have produced double-knockout mice lacking two sperm serine proteases, ACR and PRSS21, to uncover the functional role of the trypsinlike activity in fertilization. The double-knockout male mice were subfertile, likely owing to the incompleteness of fertilization in the oviductal ampulla. Despite male subfertility, the mutant epididymal sperm exhibited the inability to undergo acrosomal exocytosis on the zona pellucida (ZP) surface and to traverse the ZP, thus resulting in the failure of fertilization in vitro. The double-knockout epididymal sperm were also defective in penetration through the cumulus matrix to reach the ZP. When epididymal sperm were artificially injected into the uterus of wild-type mice, the 2-cell embryos, which had previously been fertilized by double-knockout sperm, were recovered at a low but significant level. The mutant epididymal sperm were also capable of fertilizing the oocytes in the presence of uterine fluids in vitro. These data demonstrate that the trypsinlike protease activity of ACR and PRSS21 is essential for the process of sperm penetration through the cumulus matrix and ZP in vitro, and suggest that the female reproductive tract partially compensates for the loss of the sperm function. We therefore conclude that the sperm trypsinlike activity is still important but not essential for fertilization in vivo in the mouse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natsuko Kawano
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Yamagata K. DNA methylation profiling using live-cell imaging. Methods 2010; 52:259-66. [PMID: 20412856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2010.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2010] [Revised: 04/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in DNA methylation status at specific gene loci are key epigenetic modifications, which regulate corresponding gene expression patterns. During embryogenesis, de novo methylation takes place in particular genes and this is thought to be associated with cellular differentiation. In contrast, genome-wide changes in DNA methylation are known to occur at particular developmental stages, such as global DNA demethylation during preimplantation development and germ cell formation. These alterations are considered to be the erasure of epigenetic memory or genomic reprogramming. Conventionally, immunostaining using an antibody against 5'-methylcytosine has been performed to analyze global DNA methylation status in situ. We developed a live-cell imaging technique that allows the capture of long-term dynamic changes in DNA methylation three-dimensionally. This technique consists of the construction of a fluorescent probe that can bind specifically to methylated DNA using human methyl-CpG binding domain protein 1, expression of the probe in the cell and prolonged three-dimensional imaging. Using this technique, we were able to observe time-dependent changes in DNA methylation status in living preimplantation mouse embryos. Other groups have used this approach to analyze the drastic differentiation of embryonic stem cells. In this review, I describe the theoretical basis of this imaging and discuss its usefulness and potential for studies on epigenetic regulation, especially in early mammalian development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Yamagata
- Laboratory for Genomic Reprogramming, Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN-Kobe, Minatojima-minamimachi 2-2-3, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo 651-0047, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Hayashi-Takanaka Y, Yamagata K, Nozaki N, Kimura H. Visualizing histone modifications in living cells: spatiotemporal dynamics of H3 phosphorylation during interphase. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 187:781-90. [PMID: 19995936 PMCID: PMC2806314 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.200904137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A new technique illuminates differential H3S10 phosphorylation dynamics in normal and cancer cells; spatial and temporal regulation of this process by aurora B kinase is required for accurate chromosome segregation. Posttranslational histone modifications regulate both gene expression and genome integrity. Despite the dynamic nature of these modifications, appropriate real-time monitoring systems are lacking. In this study, we developed a method to visualize histone modifications in living somatic cells and preimplantation embryos by loading fluorescently labeled specific Fab antibody fragments. The technique was used to study histone H3 Ser10 (H3S10) phosphorylation, which occurs during chromosome condensation in mitosis mediated by the aurora B kinase. In aneuploid cancer cells that frequently missegregate chromosomes, H3S10 is phosphorylated just before the chromosomes condense, whereas aurora B already accumulates in nuclei during S phase. In contrast, in nontransformed cells, phosphorylated H3S10 foci appear for a few hours during interphase, and transient exposure to an aurora B–selective inhibitor during this period induces chromosome missegregation. These results suggest that, during interphase, moderate aurora B activity or H3S10 phosphorylation is required for accurate chromosome segregation. Visualizing histone modifications in living cells will facilitate future epigenetic and cell regulation studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Hayashi-Takanaka
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Poon HK, Lee KH, Wong CL, O WS, Chow PH. A Lack of Contact of Sperm with Accessory Sex Gland Secretions Deregulates DNA Methylation and Imprinted Gene Expression in Rodent Embryos. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2009; 55:200-13. [DOI: 10.3109/19396360903165256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
45
|
Kuznetsova IS, Noniashvili EM, Gavrilova EV, Dyban AP. Modifications in major satellite methylation in the nucleus of a two-cell mouse embryo with respect to developmental conditions. Russ J Dev Biol 2009. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360409050051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
46
|
Abdalla H, Yoshizawa Y, Hochi S. Active demethylation of paternal genome in mammalian zygotes. J Reprod Dev 2009; 55:356-60. [PMID: 19721335 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.20234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic reprogramming in early preimplantation embryos, that refers to erasing and remodeling epigenetic marks such as DNA methylation, is essential for differentiation and development. In many species, paternal genome is subjected to genome-wide active demethylation before the DNA replication commences, while maternal genome maintains its methylation status until being demethylated passively during the subsequent cleavage divisions. The purpose of this manuscript was to review the available knowledge about the paternal genome active demethylation process concerning the possible mechanisms, species variation and the factors affecting the active demethylation dynamics such as in vitro protocols for production of pronuclear-stage zygotes. Better understanding the mechanisms by which the epigenetic reprogramming is occurred may contribute to clarify the biological significance of this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hany Abdalla
- Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Nagano, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Yamanaka KI, Sugimura S, Wakai T, Kawahara M, Sato E. Acetylation level of histone H3 in early embryonic stages affects subsequent development of miniature pig somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos. J Reprod Dev 2009; 55:638-44. [PMID: 19700928 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.20245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) requires a reprogramming process in which the epigenetic state of a differentiated donor nucleus must be converted into an embryonic totipotent state. However, this epigenetic reprogramming is incomplete in SCNT embryos, causing low production efficiency. Recently, it has been reported that trichostatin A (TSA), an inhibitor of histone deacetylase, potentially enhances cloning efficiency. The aim of the present study was to optimize the TSA treatment for miniature pig SCNT embryos and investigate the effect of the acetylation level of histone on developmental competence of SCNT embryos. In order to optimize the TSA treatment, we examined the developmental competence of SCNT embryos under various exposure times (0-50 h) and concentrations (0-500 nM). Treatment with 5 nM TSA for 15 and 20 h beginning at the start of activation significantly increased the blastocyst formation rate (34.6 and 32.4 vs. 18.2%, respectively) and mean cell number (57.0 +/- 2.7 and 56.6 +/- 2.7 vs. 43.5 +/- 2.1, respectively) as compared with the non-treated group (0 h). We then investigated the acetylation levels of histone H3 in SCNT embryos treated with or without TSA (TSA (+) or TSA (-)) as compared with in vitro- fertilized (IVF) embryos. The acetylation levels of the TSA (-) SCNT embryos at the pseudo-pronuclear and 2-cell stages were significantly lower than those of the IVF embryos at the same developmental stages. In contrast, the acetylation levels of the TSA (+) SCNT embryos were similar to those of the IVF embryos. There was no difference in the acetylation levels of all groups at the blastocyst stage. Our data therefore suggests that the acetylation level of histone H3 at the pseudo-pronuclear and 2-cell stages is positively correlated with subsequent development of SCNT embryos, which may be an important event for the vital development of SCNT embryos in miniature pigs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ken-ichi Yamanaka
- National Agricultural Research Center for Kyushu Okinawa Region (KONARC), Kumamoto, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Kimura M, Kim E, Kang W, Yamashita M, Saigo M, Yamazaki T, Nakanishi T, Kashiwabara SI, Baba T. Functional roles of mouse sperm hyaluronidases, HYAL5 and SPAM1, in fertilization. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:939-47. [PMID: 19605784 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.078816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although sperm entry into the oocyte-cumulus complex and subsequent sperm penetration through the cumulus matrix to reach the oocyte zona pellucida are essential for mammalian fertilization, the molecular mechanism remains controversial. Previously, we have shown that mouse sperm lacking SPAM1 are capable of penetrating the cumulus matrix despite a delayed dispersal of cumulus cells. We also have identified another sperm hyaluronidase, HYAL5, as a candidate enzyme involved in sperm penetration through the cumulus. In the present study, we produced HYAL5-deficient mice to uncover the functional roles of HYAL5 and SPAM1 in fertilization. The HYAL5-deficient mice were fully fertile and yielded normal litter sizes. In vitro fertilization assays demonstrated that HYAL5-deficient epididymal sperm is functionally normal. We thus conclude that HYAL5 may be dispensable for fertilization. Comparative analysis among wild-type, HYAL5-deficient, and SPAM1-deficient epididymal sperm revealed that only SPAM1 is probably involved in sperm penetration through the cumulus matrix. Notably, the loss of SPAM1 resulted in a remarkably increased accumulation of sperm on the surface or outer edge of the cumulus. These data suggest that SPAM1 may function in sperm entry into the cumulus and sperm penetration through the cumulus matrix.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Kimura
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Yamagata K, Suetsugu R, Wakayama T. Assessment of chromosomal integrity using a novel live-cell imaging technique in mouse embryos produced by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:2490-9. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
|
50
|
YAMAGATA K, SUETSUGU R, WAKAYAMA T. Long-Term, Six-Dimensional Live-Cell Imaging for the Mouse Preimplantation Embryo That Does Not Affect Full-Term Development. J Reprod Dev 2009; 55:343-50. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.20166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo YAMAGATA
- Laboratory for Genomic Reprogramming, Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN-Kobe
| | - Rinako SUETSUGU
- Laboratory for Genomic Reprogramming, Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN-Kobe
| | - Teruhiko WAKAYAMA
- Laboratory for Genomic Reprogramming, Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN-Kobe
| |
Collapse
|