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Li Z, Lin J, Wu J, Suo J, Wang Z. The Hippo signalling pathway in bone homeostasis: Under the regulation of mechanics and aging. Cell Prolif 2024; 57:e13652. [PMID: 38700015 PMCID: PMC11471399 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The Hippo signalling pathway is a conserved kinase cascade that orchestrates diverse cellular processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis, lineage commitment and stemness. With the onset of society ages, research on skeletal aging-mechanics-bone homeostasis has exploded. In recent years, aging and mechanical force in the skeletal system have gained groundbreaking research progress. Under the regulation of mechanics and aging, the Hippo signalling pathway has a crucial role in the development and homeostasis of bone. We synthesize the current knowledge on the role of the Hippo signalling pathway, particularly its downstream effectors yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), in bone homeostasis. We discuss the regulation of the lineage specification and function of different skeletal cell types by the Hippo signalling pathway. The interactions of the Hippo signalling pathway with other pathways, such as Wnt, transforming growth factor beta and nuclear factor kappa-B, are also mentioned because of their importance for modulating bone homeostasis. Furthermore, YAP/TAZ have been extensively studied as mechanotransducers. Due to space limitations, we focus on reviewing how mechanical forces and aging influence cell fate, communications and homeostasis through a dysregulated Hippo signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengda Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Jing'an District Central HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Junqing Lin
- Institute of Microsurgery on Extremities, and Department of Orthopedic SurgeryShanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine ShanghaiShanghaiChina
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Jing'an District Central HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jinlong Suo
- Institute of Microsurgery on Extremities, and Department of Orthopedic SurgeryShanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine ShanghaiShanghaiChina
| | - Zuoyun Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Jing'an District Central HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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2
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Dissection of mendelian predisposition and complex genetic architecture of craniovertebral junction malformation. Hum Genet 2023; 142:89-101. [PMID: 36098810 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-022-02474-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The craniovertebral junction (CVJ) is an anatomically complex region of the axial skeleton that provides protection of the brainstem and the upper cervical spinal cord. Structural malformation of the CVJ gives rise to life-threatening neurological deficits, such as quadriplegia and dyspnea. Unfortunately, genetic studies on human subjects with CVJ malformation are limited and the pathogenesis remains largely elusive. In this study, we recruited 93 individuals with CVJ malformation and performed exome sequencing. Manual interpretation of the data identified three pathogenic variants in genes associated with Mendelian diseases, including CSNK2A1, MSX2, and DDX3X. In addition, the contribution of copy number variations (CNVs) to CVJ malformation was investigated and three pathogenic CNVs were identified in three affected individuals. To further dissect the complex mutational architecture of CVJ malformation, we performed a gene-based rare variant association analysis utilizing 4371 in-house exomes as control. Rare variants in LGI4 (carrier rate = 3.26%, p = 3.3 × 10-5) and BEST1 (carrier rate = 5.43%, p = 5.77 × 10-6) were identified to be associated with CVJ malformation. Furthermore, gene set analyses revealed that extracellular matrix- and RHO GTPase-associated biological pathways were found to be involved in the etiology of CVJ malformation. Overall, we comprehensively dissected the genetic underpinnings of CVJ malformation and identified several novel disease-associated genes and biological pathways.
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Liao J, Huang Y, Wang Q, Chen S, Zhang C, Wang D, Lv Z, Zhang X, Wu M, Chen G. Gene regulatory network from cranial neural crest cells to osteoblast differentiation and calvarial bone development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:158. [PMID: 35220463 PMCID: PMC11072871 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04208-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Calvarial bone is one of the most complex sequences of developmental events in embryology, featuring a uniquely transient, pluripotent stem cell-like population known as the cranial neural crest (CNC). The skull is formed through intramembranous ossification with distinct tissue lineages (e.g. neural crest derived frontal bone and mesoderm derived parietal bone). Due to CNC's vast cell fate potential, in response to a series of inductive secreted cues including BMP/TGF-β, Wnt, FGF, Notch, Hedgehog, Hippo and PDGF signaling, CNC enables generations of a diverse spectrum of differentiated cell types in vivo such as osteoblasts and chondrocytes at the craniofacial level. In recent years, since the studies from a genetic mouse model and single-cell sequencing, new discoveries are uncovered upon CNC patterning, differentiation, and the contribution to the development of cranial bones. In this review, we summarized the differences upon the potential gene regulatory network to regulate CNC derived osteogenic potential in mouse and human, and highlighted specific functions of genetic molecules from multiple signaling pathways and the crosstalk, transcription factors and epigenetic factors in orchestrating CNC commitment and differentiation into osteogenic mesenchyme and bone formation. Disorders in gene regulatory network in CNC patterning indicate highly close relevance to clinical birth defects and diseases, providing valuable transgenic mouse models for subsequent discoveries in delineating the underlying molecular mechanisms. We also emphasized the potential regenerative alternative through scientific discoveries from CNC patterning and genetic molecules in interfering with or alleviating clinical disorders or diseases, which will be beneficial for the molecular targets to be integrated for novel therapeutic strategies in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junguang Liao
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yuping Huang
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Sisi Chen
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Chenyang Zhang
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Dan Wang
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Zhengbing Lv
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xingen Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Minimally Invasive Surgery in Orthopaedics & Skeletal Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, 314001, China
| | - Mengrui Wu
- Institute of Genetics, College of Life Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Guiqian Chen
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
- Institute of Genetics, College of Life Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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4
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Babushkina A, Lwigale P. Periocular neural crest cell differentiation into corneal endothelium is influenced by signals in the nascent corneal environment. Dev Biol 2020; 465:119-129. [PMID: 32697973 PMCID: PMC7484247 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
During ocular development, periocular neural crest cells (pNC) migrate into the region between the lens and presumptive corneal epithelium to form the corneal endothelium and stromal keratocytes. Although defects in neural crest cell development are associated with ocular dysgenesis, very little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved in this process. This study focuses on the corneal endothelium, a monolayer of specialized cells that are essential for maintaining normal hydration and transparency of the cornea. In avians, corneal endothelial cells are first to be specified from the pNC during their migration into the presumptive corneal region. To investigate the signals required for formation of the corneal endothelium, we utilized orthotopic and heterotopic injections of dissociated quail pNC into chick ocular regions. We find that pNC are multipotent and that the nascent cornea is competent to induce differentiation of ectopically injected pNC into corneal endothelium. Injected pNC downregulate expression of multipotency transcription factors and upregulate genes that are consistent with ontogenesis of the chick corneal endothelium. Importantly, we showed that TGFβ2 is expressed by the nascent lens and the corneal endothelium, and that TGFβ signaling plays a critical role in changing the molecular signature of pNC in vitro. Collectively, our results demonstrate the significance of the ocular environmental cues towards pNC differentiation, and have potential implications for clinical application of stem cells in the anterior segment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Babushkina
- BioSciences, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peter Lwigale
- BioSciences, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, USA.
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5
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Wang H, Wang M, Wang Y, Wen Y, Chen X, Wu D, Su P, Zhou W, Shi L, Zhou J. MSX2 suppression through inhibition of TGFβ signaling enhances hematopoietic differentiation of human embryonic stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:147. [PMID: 32248833 PMCID: PMC7132876 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01653-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Strategies of generating functional blood cells from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) remain largely unsuccessful due to the lack of a comprehensive understanding of hematopoietic development. Endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition (EHT) serves as the pivotal mechanism for the onset of hematopoiesis and is negatively regulated by TGF-β signaling. However, little is known about the underlying details of TGF-β signaling during EHT. Methods In this study, by applying genome-wide gene profiling, we identified muscle segment homeobox2 (MSX2) as a potential mediator of TGF-β signaling during EHT. We generated MSX2-deleted human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology and induced them to undergo hematopoietic differentiation. The role of MSX2 in hematopoiesis and functional regulation of TGFβ signaling in EHT was studied. Results We identified MSX2 as a novel regulator of human hematopoiesis. MSX2 deletion promotes the production of hematopoietic cells from hESCs. Functional and bioinformatics studies further demonstrated that MSX2 deletion augments hematopoietic differentiation of hESCs by facilitating EHT. Mechanistically, MSX2 acts as a downstream target of TGFβ signaling to mediate its function during EHT. Conclusions Our results not only improve the understanding of EHT, but may also provide novel insight into the efficient production of functional blood cells from hPSCs for regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongtao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Mengge Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Yu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Yuqi Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Dan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Pei Su
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Wen Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning Commission; Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lihong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Jiaxi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China. .,Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China.
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6
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Mekonen HK, Hikspoors JPJM, Mommen G, Kruepunga N, Köhler SE, Lamers WH. Closure of the vertebral canal in human embryos and fetuses. J Anat 2017; 231:260-274. [PMID: 28585249 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The vertebral column is the paradigm of the metameric architecture of the vertebrate body. Because the number of somites is a convenient parameter to stage early human embryos, we explored whether the closure of the vertebral canal could be used similarly for staging embryos between 7 and 10 weeks of development. Human embryos (5-10 weeks of development) were visualized using Amira 3D® reconstruction and Cinema 4D® remodelling software. Vertebral bodies were identifiable as loose mesenchymal structures between the dense mesenchymal intervertebral discs up to 6 weeks and then differentiated into cartilaginous structures in the 7th week. In this week, the dense mesenchymal neural processes also differentiated into cartilaginous structures. Transverse processes became identifiable at 6 weeks. The growth rate of all vertebral bodies was exponential and similar between 6 and 10 weeks, whereas the intervertebral discs hardly increased in size between 6 and 8 weeks and then followed vertebral growth between 8 and 10 weeks. The neural processes extended dorsolaterally (6th week), dorsally (7th week) and finally dorsomedially (8th and 9th weeks) to fuse at the midthoracic level at 9 weeks. From there, fusion extended cranially and caudally in the 10th week. Closure of the foramen magnum required the development of the supraoccipital bone as a craniomedial extension of the exoccipitals (neural processes of occipital vertebra 4), whereas a growth burst of sacral vertebra 1 delayed closure until 15 weeks. Both the cranial- and caudal-most vertebral bodies fused to form the basioccipital (occipital vertebrae 1-4) and sacrum (sacral vertebrae 1-5). In the sacrum, fusion of its so-called alar processes preceded that of the bodies by at least 6 weeks. In conclusion, the highly ordered and substantial changes in shape of the vertebral bodies leading to the formation of the vertebral canal make the development of the spine an excellent, continuous staging system for the (human) embryo between 6 and 10 weeks of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayelom K Mekonen
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jill P J M Hikspoors
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Greet Mommen
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nutmethee Kruepunga
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - S Eleonore Köhler
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter H Lamers
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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7
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McCarthy N, Sidik A, Bertrand JY, Eberhart JK. An Fgf-Shh signaling hierarchy regulates early specification of the zebrafish skull. Dev Biol 2016; 415:261-277. [PMID: 27060628 PMCID: PMC4967541 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The neurocranium generates most of the craniofacial skeleton and consists of prechordal and postchordal regions. Although development of the prechordal is well studied, little is known of the postchordal region. Here we characterize a signaling hierarchy necessary for postchordal neurocranial development involving Fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) signaling for early specification of mesodermally-derived progenitor cells. The expression of hyaluron synthetase 2 (has2) in the cephalic mesoderm requires Fgf signaling and Has2 function, in turn, is required for postchordal neurocranial development. While Hedgehog (Hh)-deficient embryos also lack a postchordal neurocranium, this appears primarily due to a later defect in chondrocyte differentiation. Inhibitor studies demonstrate that postchordal neurocranial development requires early Fgf and later Hh signaling. Collectively, our results provide a mechanistic understanding of early postchordal neurocranial development and demonstrate a hierarchy of signaling between Fgf and Hh in the development of this structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil McCarthy
- Department of Molecular Biosciences; Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Alcohol Addiction Research, University of Texas, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Alfire Sidik
- Department of Molecular Biosciences; Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Alcohol Addiction Research, University of Texas, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Julien Y Bertrand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Johann K Eberhart
- Department of Molecular Biosciences; Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Alcohol Addiction Research, University of Texas, Austin, TX, United States; Department of Molecular Biosciences; Institute of Neurobiology, University of Texas, Austin, TX, United States.
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8
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The human occipital bone: review and update on its embryology and molecular development. Childs Nerv Syst 2015; 31:2217-23. [PMID: 26280629 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-015-2870-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The formation of the occipital bone is intricate and has been extensively studied with many controversial conclusions, but with minimal effort being focused on the genes and molecular interactions necessary for its formation. A better understanding of this bone of the calvarial and skull base may shed light on pathologies where the occiput is often considered the offending entity. METHODS A review of the germane medical literature using textbooks and standard search engines was performed to gather information about previous conclusions as it pertains to the embryology and ossification of the occipital bone. RESULTS The occipital bone has both membranous and cartilaginous origin with ossification occurring as early as week 9 of fetal gestation. Its formations is dependent on complex interacts between genes and molecules with pathologies resulting from disruption of this delicate process. CONCLUSION There has been much controversy in the past in regards to the development and ossification process necessary for occipital bone formation, which has only recently been clarified with documentation of the genes and molecular interactions necessary for its formation. Lastly, this improved knowledge might improve our understanding of such congenital derailments as the Chiari malformations.
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Markunas CA, Lock E, Soldano K, Cope H, Ding CKC, Enterline DS, Grant G, Fuchs H, Ashley-Koch AE, Gregory SG. Identification of Chiari Type I Malformation subtypes using whole genome expression profiles and cranial base morphometrics. BMC Med Genomics 2014; 7:39. [PMID: 24962150 PMCID: PMC4082616 DOI: 10.1186/1755-8794-7-39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chiari Type I Malformation (CMI) is characterized by herniation of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum at the base of the skull, resulting in significant neurologic morbidity. As CMI patients display a high degree of clinical variability and multiple mechanisms have been proposed for tonsillar herniation, it is hypothesized that this heterogeneous disorder is due to multiple genetic and environmental factors. The purpose of the present study was to gain a better understanding of what factors contribute to this heterogeneity by using an unsupervised statistical approach to define disease subtypes within a case-only pediatric population. Methods A collection of forty-four pediatric CMI patients were ascertained to identify disease subtypes using whole genome expression profiles generated from patient blood and dura mater tissue samples, and radiological data consisting of posterior fossa (PF) morphometrics. Sparse k-means clustering and an extension to accommodate multiple data sources were used to cluster patients into more homogeneous groups using biological and radiological data both individually and collectively. Results All clustering analyses resulted in the significant identification of patient classes, with the pure biological classes derived from patient blood and dura mater samples demonstrating the strongest evidence. Those patient classes were further characterized by identifying enriched biological pathways, as well as correlated cranial base morphological and clinical traits. Conclusions Our results implicate several strong biological candidates warranting further investigation from the dura expression analysis and also identified a blood gene expression profile corresponding to a global down-regulation in protein synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Simon G Gregory
- Duke Center for Human Genetics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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10
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Mirzayans F, Lavy R, Penner-Chea J, Berry FB. Initiation of early osteoblast differentiation events through the direct transcriptional regulation of Msx2 by FOXC1. PLoS One 2012; 7:e49095. [PMID: 23145080 PMCID: PMC3492307 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2012] [Accepted: 10/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hierarchal transcriptional regulatory networks function to control the correct spatiotemporal patterning of the mammalian skeletal system. One such factor, the forkhead box transcription factor FOXC1 is necessary for the correct formation of the axial and craniofacial skeleton. Previous studies have demonstrated that the frontal and parietal bones of the skull fail to develop in mice deficient for Foxc1. Furthermore expression of the Msx2 homeobox gene, an essential regulator of calvarial bone development is absent in the skull mesenchymal progenitors of Foxc1 mutant mice. Thus we sought to determine whether Msx2 was a direct target of FOXC1 transcriptional regulation. Here, we demonstrate that elevated expression of FOXC1 can increase endogenous Msx2 mRNA levels. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments reveal that FOXC1 occupies a conserved element in the MSX2 promoter. Using a luciferase reporter assay, we demonstrate that FOXC1 can stimulate the activity of the both human and mouse MSX2 promoters. We also report that reducing FOXC1 levels by RNA interference leads to a decrease in MSX2 expression. Finally, we demonstrate that heterologous expression of Foxc1 in C2C12 cells results in elevated alkaline phosphatase activity and increased expression of Runx2 and Msx2. These data indicate that Foxc1 expression leads to a similar enhanced osteogenic differentiation phenotype as observed with Msx2 overexpression. Together these findings suggest that a Foxc1->Msx2 regulatory network functions in the initial stages of osteoblast differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farideh Mirzayans
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rotem Lavy
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan Penner-Chea
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Fred B. Berry
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- * E-mail:
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11
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Janeczek M, Chrószcz A, Czerski A. Morphological investigations of the occipital area in adult American Staffordshire Terriers. Anat Histol Embryol 2011; 40:278-82. [PMID: 21517942 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0264.2011.01071.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Morphological investigations into the occipital area were carried out on the skulls of 24 adult American Staffordshire Terriers. The dorsal notch was found in one skull. The normal height (h) and width (W) of the foramen magnum was measured, and the foramen magnum index was calculated. In the case of the presence of the dorsal notch, total height (H) and normal height (h) of foramen magnum were measured, and dorsal notch height (N) was estimated. The mean value of the foramen magnum index (FMIa = W/H × 100) was 82.7. The foramen magnum index with the exception of the skull with dorsal notch (FMIb = W/h × 100) was 77.89. The dysplasia index (ISD = N/h × 100) was 44.05. A radiographic evaluation was made according to the method introduced by Rusbridge. Occipital dysplasia is not a clinical problem itself but can provoke one.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Janeczek
- Department of Biostructure and Animal Physiology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Kożuchowska, Wrocław, Poland.
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12
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Jinno H, Morozova O, Jones KL, Biernaskie JA, Paris M, Hosokawa R, Rudnicki MA, Chai Y, Rossi F, Marra MA, Miller FD. Convergent genesis of an adult neural crest-like dermal stem cell from distinct developmental origins. Stem Cells 2011; 28:2027-40. [PMID: 20848654 DOI: 10.1002/stem.525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Skin-derived precursors (SKPs) are multipotent dermal stem cells that reside within a hair follicle niche and that share properties with embryonic neural crest precursors. Here, we have asked whether SKPs and their endogenous dermal precursors originate from the neural crest or whether, like the dermis itself, they originate from multiple developmental origins. To do this, we used two different mouse Cre lines that allow us to perform lineage tracing: Wnt1-cre, which targets cells deriving from the neural crest, and Myf5-cre, which targets cells of a somite origin. By crossing these Cre lines to reporter mice, we show that the endogenous follicle-associated dermal precursors in the face derive from the neural crest, and those in the dorsal trunk derive from the somites, as do the SKPs they generate. Despite these different developmental origins, SKPs from these two locations are functionally similar, even with regard to their ability to differentiate into Schwann cells, a cell type only thought to be generated from the neural crest. Analysis of global gene expression using microarrays confirmed that facial and dorsal SKPs exhibit a very high degree of similarity, and that they are also very similar to SKPs derived from ventral dermis, which has a lateral plate origin. However, these developmentally distinct SKPs also retain differential expression of a small number of genes that reflect their developmental origins. Thus, an adult neural crest-like dermal precursor can be generated from a non-neural crest origin, a finding with broad implications for the many neuroendocrine cells in the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Jinno
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
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Abstract
Cleft palate, a malformation of the secondary palate development, is one of the most common human congenital birth defects. Palate formation is a complex process resulting in the separation of the oral and nasal cavities that involves multiple events, including palatal growth, elevation, and fusion. Recent findings show that transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling plays crucial roles in regulating palate development in both the palatal epithelium and mesenchyme. Here, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of TGF-β signaling during palate development.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Iwata
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Yan J, Stringer SE, Hamilton A, Charlton-Menys V, Götting C, Müller B, Aeschlimann D, Alexander MY. Decorin GAG synthesis and TGF-β signaling mediate Ox-LDL-induced mineralization of human vascular smooth muscle cells. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2011; 31:608-15. [PMID: 21205989 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.110.220749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Decorin and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) independently induce osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). We aimed to determine whether decorin glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chain synthesis contributes to Ox-LDL-induced differentiation and calcification of human VSMCs in vitro. METHODS AND RESULTS Human VSMCs treated with Ox-LDL to induce oxidative stress showed increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, accelerated mineralization, and a difference in both decorin GAG chain biosynthesis and CS/DS structure compared with untreated controls. Ox-LDL increased mRNA abundance of both xylosyltransferase (XT)-I, the key enzyme responsible for GAG chain biosynthesis and Msx2, a marker of osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, downregulation of XT-I expression using small interfering RNA blocked Ox-LDL-induced VSMC mineralization. Adenoviral-mediated overexpression of decorin, but not a mutated unglycanated form, accelerated mineralization of VSMCs, suggesting GAG chain addition on decorin is crucial for the process of differentiation. The decorin-induced VSMC osteogenic differentiation involved activation of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β pathway, because it was attenuated by blocking of TGF-β receptor signaling and because decorin overexpression potentiated phosphorylation of the downstream signaling molecule smad2. CONCLUSIONS These studies provide direct evidence that oxidative stress-mediated decorin GAG chain synthesis triggers TGF-β signaling and mineralization of VSMCs in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyun Yan
- Cardiovascular Research Group, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
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Extensive expression of craniofacial related homeobox genes in canine mammary sarcomas. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2008; 118:333-43. [PMID: 19048371 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-008-0243-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2008] [Accepted: 10/30/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The global gene expression in three types of canine mammary tumors: carcinoma, fibrosarcoma and osteosarcoma were investigated by Affymetrix gene array technology. Unsupervised clustering analysis revealed a close clustering of the respective tumor types, with fibrosarcomas clustering close to the osteosarcomas and the carcinomas clustering closer to non-malignant mammary tissues (NMTs). A number of epithelial markers were expressed in both carcinomas and NMTs, whereas the sarcomas expressed genes related to mesenchymal differentiation. A comparison of the gene expression profile of the sarcomas versus carcinoma/NMTs revealed that the sarcomas, in particular the osteosarcomas, showed a striking upregulation of a panel of homeobox genes previously linked to craniofacial bone formation. In line with this finding, osteosarcomas showed an upregulation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and of genes associated with retinoic acid signaling. Increased homeobox gene expression in sarcomas was also confirmed at the protein level by immunohistochemical analysis of tumor tissue, and in an osteosarcoma cell line after stimulation by BMP-2. These findings suggest that the development of mammary sarcomas specifically involves triggering of a set of homeobox genes related to neural crest and craniofacial bone development.
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