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Dabdoub S, Greenlee A, Abboud G, Brengartner L, Zuiker E, Gorr MW, Wold LE, Kumar PS, Cray J. Acute exposure to electronic cigarette components alters mRNA expression of pre-osteoblasts. FASEB J 2024; 38:e70017. [PMID: 39213037 PMCID: PMC11371384 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302014rrr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The use of traditional nicotine delivery products such as tobacco has long been linked to detrimental health effects. However, little work to date has focused on the emerging market of aerosolized nicotine delivery known as electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) or electronic cigarettes, and their potential for new effects on human health. Challenges studying these devices include heterogeneity in the formulation of the common components of most available ENDS, including nicotine and a carrier (commonly composed of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, or PG/VG). In the present study, we report on experiments interrogating the effects of major identified components in e-cigarettes. Specifically, the potential concomitant effects of nicotine and common carrier ingredients in commercial "vape" products are explored in vitro to inform the potential health effects on the craniofacial skeleton through novel vectors as compared to traditional tobacco products. MC3T3-E1 murine pre-osteoblast cells were cultured in vitro with clinically relevant liquid concentrations of nicotine, propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), Nicotine+PG/VG, and the vape liquid of a commercial product (Juul). Cells were treated acutely for 24 h and RNA-Seq was utilized to determine segregating alteration in mRNA signaling. Influential gene targets identified with sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis (sPLS-DA) implemented in mixOmics were assessed using the PANTHER Classification system for molecular functions, biological processes, cellular components, and pathways of effect. Additional endpoint functional analyses were used to confirm cell cycle changes. The initial excitatory concentration (EC50) studied defined a target concentration of carrier PG/VG liquid that altered the cell cycle of the calvarial cells. Initial sPLS-DA analysis demonstrated the segregation of nicotine and non-nicotine exposures utilized in our in vitro modeling. Pathway analysis suggests a strong influence of nicotine exposures on cellular processes including metabolic processes and response to stimuli including autophagic flux. Further interrogation of the individual treatment conditions demonstrated segregation by treatment modality (Control, Nicotine, Carrier (PG+VG), Nicotine+PG/VG) along three dimensions best characterized by: latent variable 1 (PLSDA-1) showing strong segregation based on nicotine influence on cellular processes associated with cellular adhesion to collagen, osteoblast differentiation, and calcium binding and metabolism; latent variable 2 (PLSDA-2) showing strong segregation of influence based on PG+VG and Control influence on cell migration, survival, and cycle regulation; and latent variable 3 (PLSDA-3) showing strong segregation based on Nicotine and Control exposure influence on cell activity and growth and developmental processes. Further, gene co-expression network analysis implicates targets of the major pathway genes associated with bone growth and development, particularly craniofacial (FGF, Notch, TGFβ, WNT) and analysis of active subnetwork pathways found these additionally overrepresented in the Juul exposure relative to Nicotine+PG/VG. Finally, experimentation confirmed alterations in cell count, and increased evidence of cell stress (markers of autophagy), but no alteration in apoptosis. These data suggest concomitant treatment with Nicotine+PG/VG drives alterations in pre-osteoblast cell cycle signaling, specifically transcriptomic targets related to cell cycle and potentially cell stress. Although we suspected cell stress and well as cytotoxic effects of Nicotine+PG/VG, no great influence on apoptotic factors was observed. Further RNA-Seq analysis allowed for the direct interrogation of molecular targets of major pathways involved in bone and craniofacial development, each demonstrating segregation (altered signaling) due to e-cigarette-type exposure. These data have implications directed toward ENDS formulation as synergistic effects of Nicotine+PG/VG are evidenced here. Thus, future research will continue to interrogate how varied formulation of Nicotine+PG/VG affects overall cell functions in multiple vital systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shareef Dabdoub
- Division of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
- Department of Periodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
| | - Ashley Greenlee
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
| | - George Abboud
- Undergraduate Biomedical Sciences Major, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
| | - Lexie Brengartner
- Undergraduate Biomedical Sciences Major, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
| | - Eryn Zuiker
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
| | - Matthew W. Gorr
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
| | - Loren E. Wold
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
| | - Purnima S. Kumar
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan
| | - James Cray
- Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
- Divisions of Biosciences and Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210, USA
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Bobzin L, Nickle A, Ko S, Ince M, Bhojwani A, Merrill AE. FGF Signaling Regulates Development of the Anterior Fontanelle. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.14.603452. [PMID: 39071418 PMCID: PMC11275813 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.14.603452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The calvarial bones of the infant skull are connected by transient fibrous joints known as sutures and fontanelles, which are essential for reshaping during birth and postnatal growth. Genetic disorders such as Apert, Pfeiffer, Crouzon, and Bent bone dysplasia linked to FGFR2 variants often exhibit multi-suture craniosynostosis and a persistently open anterior fontanelle (AF). This study leverages mouse genetics and single-cell transcriptomics to determine how Fgfr2 regulates closure of the AF closure and its transformation into the frontal suture during postnatal development. We find that cells of the AF, marked by the tendon/ligament factor SCX, are spatially restricted to ecto- or endocranial domains and undergo regionally selective differentiation into ligament, bone, and cartilage. Differentiation of SCX+ AF cells is dependent on FGFR2 signaling in cells of the osteogenic fronts which, when fueled by FGF18 from the ectocranial mesenchyme, express the secreted WNT inhibitor WIF1 to regulate WNT signaling in neighboring AF cells. Upon loss of Fgfr2 , Wif1 expression is lost, and cells of the AF retain a connective tissue-like fate failing to form the posterior frontal suture. This study provides new insights into regional differences in suture development by identifying an FGF-WNT signaling circuit within the AF that links frontal bone advancement with suture joint formation.
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Weng Z, Xu C, Chen X, Yan Q, Fu Z, Jiao J, Xu J, Liu Q, Wang D, Liang J, Li W, Gu A. Sp1-activated FGFR2 is involved in early-life exposure to nickel-induced craniosynostosis by regulating the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 184:108477. [PMID: 38340406 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Nickel, a common environmental hazard, is a risk factor for craniosynostosis. However, the underlying biological mechanism remains unclear. Here, we found that early-life nickel exposure induced craniosynostosis in mice. In vitro, nickel promoted the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), and its osteogenic ability in vivo was confirmed by an ectopic osteogenesis model. Further mRNA sequencing showed that ERK1/2 signaling and FGFR2 were aberrantly activated. FGFR2 was identified as a key regulator of ERK1/2 signaling. By promoter methylation prediction and methylation-specific PCR (MSP) assays, we found that nickel induced hypomethylation in the promoter of FGFR2, which increased its binding affinity to the transcription factor Sp1. During pregnancy and postnatal stages, AZD4547 rescued nickel-induced craniosynostosis by inhibiting FGFR2 and ERK1/2. Compared with normal individuals, nickel levels were increased in the serum of individuals with craniosynostosis. Further logistic and RCS analyses showed that nickel was an independent risk factor for craniosynostosis with a nonlinear correlation. Mediated analysis showed that FGFR2 mediated 30.13% of the association between nickel and craniosynostosis risk. Collectively, we demonstrate that early-life nickel exposure triggers the hypomethylation of FGFR2 and its binding to Sp1, thereby promoting the osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs by ERK1/2 signaling, leading to craniosynostosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenkun Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Second People's Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Cheng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xiu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Qing Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zuqiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; School of Public Health, Southeast University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Jian Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Jin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Department of Maternal, Child, and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Dongmei Wang
- The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Second People's Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Jingjia Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Wenxiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Aihua Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.
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Lin LC, Liu ZY, Tu B, Song K, Sun H, Zhou Y, Sha JM, Zhang Y, Yang JJ, Zhao JY, Tao H. Epigenetic signatures in cardiac fibrosis: Focusing on noncoding RNA regulators as the gatekeepers of cardiac fibroblast identity. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127593. [PMID: 37898244 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac fibroblasts play a pivotal role in cardiac fibrosis by transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, which synthesis and secrete a large number of extracellular matrix proteins. Ultimately, this will lead to cardiac wall stiffness and impaired cardiac performance. The epigenetic regulation and fate reprogramming of cardiac fibroblasts has been advanced considerably in recent decades. Non coding RNAs (microRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs) regulate the functions and behaviors of cardiac fibroblasts, including proliferation, migration, phenotypic transformation, inflammation, pyroptosis, apoptosis, autophagy, which can provide the basis for novel targeted therapeutic treatments that abrogate activation and inflammation of cardiac fibroblasts, induce different death pathways in cardiac fibroblasts, or make it sensitive to established pathogenic cells targeted cytotoxic agents and biotherapy. This review summarizes our current knowledge in this field of ncRNAs function in epigenetic regulation and fate determination of cardiac fibroblasts as well as the details of signaling pathways contribute to cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, we will comment on the emerging landscape of lncRNAs and circRNAs function in regulating signal transduction pathways, gene translation processes and post-translational regulation of gene expression in cardiac fibroblast. In the end, the prospect of cardiac fibroblasts targeted therapy for cardiac fibrosis based on ncRNAs is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Chan Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Zhi-Yan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Bin Tu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Kai Song
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - He Sun
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Ji-Ming Sha
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
| | - Jing-Jing Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
| | - Jian-Yuan Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China; Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China; Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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5
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Smith C, Kitzman JO. Benchmarking splice variant prediction algorithms using massively parallel splicing assays. Genome Biol 2023; 24:294. [PMID: 38129864 PMCID: PMC10734170 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-023-03144-z] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Variants that disrupt mRNA splicing account for a sizable fraction of the pathogenic burden in many genetic disorders, but identifying splice-disruptive variants (SDVs) beyond the essential splice site dinucleotides remains difficult. Computational predictors are often discordant, compounding the challenge of variant interpretation. Because they are primarily validated using clinical variant sets heavily biased to known canonical splice site mutations, it remains unclear how well their performance generalizes. RESULTS We benchmark eight widely used splicing effect prediction algorithms, leveraging massively parallel splicing assays (MPSAs) as a source of experimentally determined ground-truth. MPSAs simultaneously assay many variants to nominate candidate SDVs. We compare experimentally measured splicing outcomes with bioinformatic predictions for 3,616 variants in five genes. Algorithms' concordance with MPSA measurements, and with each other, is lower for exonic than intronic variants, underscoring the difficulty of identifying missense or synonymous SDVs. Deep learning-based predictors trained on gene model annotations achieve the best overall performance at distinguishing disruptive and neutral variants, and controlling for overall call rate genome-wide, SpliceAI and Pangolin have superior sensitivity. Finally, our results highlight two practical considerations when scoring variants genome-wide: finding an optimal score cutoff, and the substantial variability introduced by differences in gene model annotation, and we suggest strategies for optimal splice effect prediction in the face of these issues. CONCLUSION SpliceAI and Pangolin show the best overall performance among predictors tested, however, improvements in splice effect prediction are still needed especially within exons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Smith
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jacob O Kitzman
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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Zhao X, Erhardt S, Sung K, Wang J. FGF signaling in cranial suture development and related diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1112890. [PMID: 37325554 PMCID: PMC10267317 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1112890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Suture mesenchymal stem cells (SMSCs) are a heterogeneous stem cell population with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into multiple cell lineages. The cranial suture provides a niche for SMSCs to maintain suture patency, allowing for cranial bone repair and regeneration. In addition, the cranial suture functions as an intramembranous bone growth site during craniofacial bone development. Defects in suture development have been implicated in various congenital diseases, such as sutural agenesis and craniosynostosis. However, it remains largely unknown how intricate signaling pathways orchestrate suture and SMSC function in craniofacial bone development, homeostasis, repair and diseases. Studies in patients with syndromic craniosynostosis identified fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling as an important signaling pathway that regulates cranial vault development. A series of in vitro and in vivo studies have since revealed the critical roles of FGF signaling in SMSCs, cranial suture and cranial skeleton development, and the pathogenesis of related diseases. Here, we summarize the characteristics of cranial sutures and SMSCs, and the important functions of the FGF signaling pathway in SMSC and cranial suture development as well as diseases caused by suture dysfunction. We also discuss emerging current and future studies of signaling regulation in SMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Shannon Erhardt
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- MD Anderson Cancer Center and UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Kihan Sung
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- MD Anderson Cancer Center and UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas, Houston, TX, United States
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Zhou Y, Zhu P, Shen S, Wang Y, Li B, Guo B, Li H. Overexpression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells enhances osteogenesis and promotes critical cranial bone defect regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1208239. [PMID: 37266455 PMCID: PMC10229770 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1208239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Reconstruction of cranial bone defects is one of the most challenging problems in reconstructive surgery, and several biological tissue engineering methods have been used to promote bone repair, such as genetic engineering of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (Fgfr2) is an important regulator of bone construction and can be used as a potential gene editing site. However, its role in the osteogenesis process of BMSCs remains unclear. This article clarifies the function of Fgfr2 in BMSCs and explores the role of Fgfr2-overexpressed BMSCs carried by light-induced porous hydrogel (GelMA) in the repair of cranial bone defects. Methods: Lenti-virus was used to overexpress Fgfr2 in BMSCs, and cell counting kit-8, transwell, and flow cytometry assays were conducted to investigate the proliferation, migration, and characteristics. After 0, 3, 7, and 10 days of osteogenic or chondrogenic induction, the changes in osteogenic and chondrogenic ability were detected by real-time PCR, western blot, alkaline phosphatase staining, alizarin Red staining, and alcian blue staining. To investigate the viability of BMSCs carried by GelMA, calcein and propyl iodide staining were carried out as well. Finally, a critical cranial bone defect model was established in 6-week-old male mice and micro-computerized tomography, masson staining, and immunohistochemistry of OCN were conducted to test the bone regeneration properties of implanting Fgfr2-overexpressed BMSCs with GelMA in cranial bone defects over 6 weeks. Results: Overexpression of Fgfr2 in BMSCs significantly promoted cell proliferation and migration and increased the percentage of CD200+CD105+ cells. After osteogenic and chondrogenic induction, Fgfr2 overexpression enhanced both osteogenic and chondrogenic ability. Furthermore, in cranial bone defect regeneration, BMSCs carried by light-induced GelMA showed favorable biocompatibility, and Fgfr2-overexpressed BMSCs induced superior cranial bone regeneration compared to a normal BMSCs group and an untreated blank group. Conclusion: In vitro, Fgfr2 enhanced the proliferation, migration, and stemness of BMSCs and promoted osteogenesis and chondrogenesis after parallel induction. In vivo, BMSCs with Fgfr2 overexpression carried by GelMA showed favorable performance in treating critical cranial bone defects. This study clarifies the multiple functions of Fgfr2 in BMSCs and provides a new method for future tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Zhou
- Department of Orthodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peixiang Zhu
- Department of Orthodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Siyu Shen
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanyi Wang
- Department of Orthodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Baochao Li
- Department of Orthodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Baosheng Guo
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huang Li
- Department of Orthodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Smith C, Kitzman JO. Benchmarking splice variant prediction algorithms using massively parallel splicing assays. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.04.539398. [PMID: 37205456 PMCID: PMC10187268 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.04.539398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Background Variants that disrupt mRNA splicing account for a sizable fraction of the pathogenic burden in many genetic disorders, but identifying splice-disruptive variants (SDVs) beyond the essential splice site dinucleotides remains difficult. Computational predictors are often discordant, compounding the challenge of variant interpretation. Because they are primarily validated using clinical variant sets heavily biased to known canonical splice site mutations, it remains unclear how well their performance generalizes. Results We benchmarked eight widely used splicing effect prediction algorithms, leveraging massively parallel splicing assays (MPSAs) as a source of experimentally determined ground-truth. MPSAs simultaneously assay many variants to nominate candidate SDVs. We compared experimentally measured splicing outcomes with bioinformatic predictions for 3,616 variants in five genes. Algorithms' concordance with MPSA measurements, and with each other, was lower for exonic than intronic variants, underscoring the difficulty of identifying missense or synonymous SDVs. Deep learning-based predictors trained on gene model annotations achieved the best overall performance at distinguishing disruptive and neutral variants. Controlling for overall call rate genome-wide, SpliceAI and Pangolin also showed superior overall sensitivity for identifying SDVs. Finally, our results highlight two practical considerations when scoring variants genome-wide: finding an optimal score cutoff, and the substantial variability introduced by differences in gene model annotation, and we suggest strategies for optimal splice effect prediction in the face of these issues. Conclusion SpliceAI and Pangolin showed the best overall performance among predictors tested, however, improvements in splice effect prediction are still needed especially within exons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Smith
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jacob O. Kitzman
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Vogiatzi A, Keklikoglou K, Makris K, Argyrou DS, Zacharopoulos A, Sotiropoulou V, Parthenios N, Gkikas A, Kokkori M, Richardson MSW, Fenwick AL, Archontidi S, Arvanitidis C, Robertson J, Parthenios J, Zacharakis G, Twigg SRF, Wilkie AOM, Mavrothalassitis G. Development of Erf-Mediated Craniosynostosis and Pharmacological Amelioration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7961. [PMID: 37175668 PMCID: PMC10178537 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097961] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
ETS2 repressor factor (ERF) insufficiency causes craniosynostosis (CRS4) in humans and mice. ERF is an ETS domain transcriptional repressor regulated by Erk1/2 phosphorylation via nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling. Here, we analyze the onset and development of the craniosynostosis phenotype in an Erf-insufficient mouse model and evaluate the potential of the residual Erf activity augmented by pharmacological compounds to ameliorate the disease. Erf insufficiency appears to cause an initially compromised frontal bone formation and subsequent multisuture synostosis, reflecting distinct roles of Erf on the cells that give rise to skull and facial bones. We treated animals with Mek1/2 and nuclear export inhibitors, U0126 and KPT-330, respectively, to increase Erf activity by two independent pathways. We implemented both a low dosage locally over the calvaria and a systemic drug administration scheme to evaluate the possible indirect effects from other systems and minimize toxicity. The treatment of mice with either the inhibitors or the administration scheme alleviated the synostosis phenotype with minimal adverse effects. Our data suggest that the ERF level is an important regulator of cranial bone development and that pharmacological modulation of its activity may represent a valid intervention approach both in CRS4 and in other syndromic forms of craniosynostosis mediated by the FGFR-RAS-ERK-ERF pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeliki Vogiatzi
- Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- IMBB, FORTH, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Kleoniki Keklikoglou
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture (IMBBC), Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), P.O. Box 2214, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Biology Department, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Angelos Gkikas
- Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Maria Kokkori
- Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Melodie S. W. Richardson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Aimée L. Fenwick
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Sofia Archontidi
- Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Christos Arvanitidis
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture (IMBBC), Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), P.O. Box 2214, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- LifeWatch ERIC, Sector II-II, Plaza de España, 41071 Seville, Spain
| | - Jeremy Robertson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK
| | | | | | - Stephen R. F. Twigg
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Andrew O. M. Wilkie
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - George Mavrothalassitis
- Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- IMBB, FORTH, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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10
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Zhu XC, Zhu MZ, Lu J, Yao QY, Hu JW, Long WJ, Ruan SS, Dai WZ, Li R. MicroRNA-125a-3p Modulate Amyloid β-Protein through the MAPK Pathway in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2023; 20:471-480. [PMID: 37711111 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666230913105811] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNA (miR)-125a-3p is reported to play an important role in some central nervous system diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, a study has not been conducted on the mechanism of miR-125a-3p in the pathological process of AD. METHODS First, we assessed the expression of miR-125a-3p in AD cohort. Subsequently, we altered the expressions of miR-125a-3p to assess its role in cell viability, cell apoptosis, amyloid-β (Aβ) metabolism, and synaptic activity. Finally, we identified its potential mechanism underlying AD pathology. RESULTS This study unveiled the potential function of miR-125a-3p through modulating amyloid precursor protein processing. Additionally, miR-125a-3p influenced cell survival and activated synaptic expression through the modulation of Aβ metabolism in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway via fibroblast growth factor receptor 2. CONCLUSION Our study indicates that targeting miR-125a-3p may be an applicable therapy for AD in the future. However, more in vitro and in vivo studies with more samples are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Chen Zhu
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
- Brain Institue, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Affiliated Wuxi Clinical College of Nantong University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Neurology, the Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Meng-Zhuo Zhu
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Affiliated Wuxi Clinical College of Nantong University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Department of Neurology, the Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qing-Yu Yao
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jia-Wei Hu
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wen-Jun Long
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Sha-Sha Ruan
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
- Brain Institue, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wen-Zhuo Dai
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
- Brain Institue, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Rong Li
- Department of Neurology, the Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Affiliated Wuxi Clinical College of Nantong University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Pharmacy, the Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
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11
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Huang C, Wang R, Lu J, He Y, Wu Y, Ma W, Xu J, Wu Z, Feng Z, Wu M. MicroRNA
‐338‐3p as a therapeutic target in cardiac fibrosis through
FGFR2
suppression. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24584. [PMID: 35792028 PMCID: PMC9396162 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The development of cardiac fibrosis involves the activation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and their differentiation into myofibroblasts, which leads to the disruption of the extracellular matrix network. In the past few years, microRNAs (miRNA) have been described as potential targets for treating cardiac diseases. Although miR‐338‐3p has been shown to participate in the development of carcinoma, whether it affects cardiac fibrosis is unclear. Methods We examined the expression profiles of microRNAs in left ventricular samples of heart failure mice established by thoracic aortic constriction (TAC). Real‐time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was used to detect the expression of miR‐338‐3p. CCK‐8 assay/Transwell migration assay was used to measure the proliferation rate/migration of CFs. Luciferase reporter gene assay was used to test the binding between miR‐338‐3p and FGFR2. Results This study demonstrated that miR‐338‐3p was significantly decreased in thoracic aortic constriction mice. Cardiac miR‐338‐3p amounts were also reduced in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Interestingly, miR‐338‐3p overexpression inhibited α‐SMA, COL1A1, and COL3A1 expression, as well as cell proliferation and migration in CFs. Bioinformatics analysis and dual‐luciferase reporter assays revealed FGFR2 was targeted by miR‐338‐3p, whose antifibrotic effect could be alleviated by overexpression of FGFR2. Moreover, in DCM cases, serum miR‐338‐3p levels were markedly elevated in individuals with worse outcomes. Conclusions The present study provides evidence that miR‐338‐3p suppresses cardiac fibroblast activation, proliferation, and migration by directly targeting FGFR2 in mice. Besides, serum miR‐338‐3p might constitute a potential prognostic biomarker of dilated cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute Guangzhou China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute Guangzhou China
| | - Jianjun Lu
- Department of Medical Services The First Affiliated Hopital of Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
| | - Yongli He
- Department of Intensive Care Unit Guangdong General Hospital Zhuhai Hospital Zhuhai Golden Bay Center Hospital Zhuhai China
| | - Yueheng Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute Guangzhou China
| | - Wuxia Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute Guangzhou China
| | - Jindong Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital Guangzhou China
| | - Zejia Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute Guangzhou China
| | - Zhe Feng
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute Guangzhou China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute Guangzhou China
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12
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Ornitz DM, Itoh N. New developments in the biology of fibroblast growth factors. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1549. [PMID: 35142107 PMCID: PMC10115509 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family is composed of 18 secreted signaling proteins consisting of canonical FGFs and endocrine FGFs that activate four receptor tyrosine kinases (FGFRs 1-4) and four intracellular proteins (intracellular FGFs or iFGFs) that primarily function to regulate the activity of voltage-gated sodium channels and other molecules. The canonical FGFs, endocrine FGFs, and iFGFs have been reviewed extensively by us and others. In this review, we briefly summarize past reviews and then focus on new developments in the FGF field since our last review in 2015. Some of the highlights in the past 6 years include the use of optogenetic tools, viral vectors, and inducible transgenes to experimentally modulate FGF signaling, the clinical use of small molecule FGFR inhibitors, an expanded understanding of endocrine FGF signaling, functions for FGF signaling in stem cell pluripotency and differentiation, roles for FGF signaling in tissue homeostasis and regeneration, a continuing elaboration of mechanisms of FGF signaling in development, and an expanding appreciation of roles for FGF signaling in neuropsychiatric diseases. This article is categorized under: Cardiovascular Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Congenital Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Cancer > Stem Cells and Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Ornitz
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Nobuyuki Itoh
- Kyoto University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sakyo, Kyoto, Japan
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13
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The Effect of Yes-Associated Protein on the Interaction Between the MEK/Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase and Hippo Pathways in Osteoblasts Co-Cultured With Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2-Mutated Dura Cells. J Craniofac Surg 2022; 33:1250-1254. [DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000008115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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14
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Al-Namnam NM, Jayash SN, Hariri F, Rahman ZAA, Alshawsh MA. Insights and future directions of potential genetic therapy for Apert syndrome: A systematic review. Gene Ther 2021; 28:620-633. [PMID: 33619359 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00238-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Apert syndrome is a genetic disorder characterised by craniosynostosis and structural discrepancy of the craniofacial region as well as the hands and feet. This condition is closely linked with fibroblast growth factor receptor-2 (FGFR2) gene mutations. Gene therapies are progressively being tested in advanced clinical trials, leading to a rise of its potential clinical indications. In recent years, research has made great progress in the gene therapy of craniosynostosis syndromes and several studies have investigated its influences in preventing/diminishing the complications of Apert syndrome. This article reviewed and exhibited different techniques of gene therapy and their influences in Apert syndrome progression. A systematic search was executed using electronic bibliographic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, SciFinder and Web of Science for all studies of gene therapy for Apert syndrome. The primary outcomes measurements vary from protein to gene expressions. According to the findings of included studies, we conclude that the gene therapy using FGF in Apert syndrome was critical in the regulation of suture fusion and patency, occurred via alterations in cellular proliferation. The superior outcome could be brought by biological therapies targeting the FGF/FGFR signalling. More studies in molecular genetics in Apert syndrome are recommended. This study reviews the current literature and provides insights to future possibilities of genetic therapy as intervention in Apert syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Soher Nagi Jayash
- School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, 5 Mill Pool Way, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Firdaus Hariri
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zainal Ariff Abdul Rahman
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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15
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Yang Z, Zou L, Sun T, Xu W, Zeng L, Jia Y, Jiang J, Deng J, Yang X. Genome-Wide Association Study Using Whole-Genome Sequencing Identifies a Genomic Region on Chromosome 6 Associated With Comb Traits in Nandan-Yao Chicken. Front Genet 2021; 12:682501. [PMID: 34408769 PMCID: PMC8365347 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.682501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Comb traits have potential economic value in the breeding of indigenous chickens in China. Identifying and understanding relevant molecular markers for comb traits can be beneficial for genetic improvement. The purpose of this study was to utilize genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to detect promising loci and candidate genes related to comb traits, namely, comb thickness (CT), comb weight (CW), comb height, comb length (CL), and comb area. Genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and small insertions/deletions (INDELs) in 300 Nandan-Yao chickens were detected using whole-genome sequencing. In total, we identified 134 SNPs and 25 INDELs that were strongly associated with the five comb traits. A remarkable region spanning from 29.6 to 31.4 Mb on chromosome 6 was found to be significantly associated with comb traits in both SNP- and INDEL-based GWAS. In this region, two lead SNPs (6:30,354,876 for CW and CT and 6:30,264,318 for CL) and one lead INDEL (a deletion from 30,376,404 to 30,376,405 bp for CL and CT) were identified. Additionally, two genes were identified as potential candidates for comb development. The nearby gene fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2)-associated with epithelial cell migration and proliferation-and the gene cytochrome b5 reductase 2 (CYB5R2)-identified on chromosome 5 from INDEL-based GWAS-are significantly correlated with collagen maturation. The findings of this study could provide promising genes and biomarkers to accelerate genetic improvement of comb development based on molecular marker-assisted breeding in Nandan-Yao chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuliang Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Leqin Zou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Tiantian Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Wenwen Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Linghu Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yinhai Jia
- Guangxi Institute of Animal Science, Nanning, China
| | - Jianping Jiang
- Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Jixian Deng
- Guangxi Institute of Animal Science, Nanning, China
| | - Xiurong Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
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16
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Vogiatzi A, Baltsavia I, Dialynas E, Theodorou V, Zhou Y, Deligianni E, Iliopoulos I, Wilkie AOM, Twigg SRF, Mavrothalassitis G. Erf Affects Commitment and Differentiation of Osteoprogenitor Cells in Cranial Sutures via the Retinoic Acid Pathway. Mol Cell Biol 2021; 41:e0014921. [PMID: 33972395 PMCID: PMC8300784 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00149-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ETS2 repressor factor (ERF) haploinsufficiency causes late-onset craniosynostosis (CRS) (OMIM entry 600775; CRS4) in humans, while in mice Erf insufficiency also leads to a similar multisuture synostosis phenotype preceded by mildly reduced calvarium ossification. However, neither the cell types affected nor the effects per se have been identified so far. Here, we establish an ex vivo system for the expansion of suture-derived mesenchymal stem and progenitor cells (sdMSCs) and analyze the role of Erf levels in their differentiation. Cellular data suggest that Erf insufficiency specifically decreases osteogenic differentiation of sdMSCs, resulting in the initially delayed mineralization of the calvarium. Transcriptome analysis indicates that Erf is required for efficient osteogenic lineage commitment of sdMSCs. Elevated retinoic acid catabolism due to increased levels of the cytochrome P450 superfamily member Cyp26b1 as a result of decreased Erf levels appears to be the underlying mechanism leading to defective differentiation. Exogenous addition of retinoic acid can rescue the osteogenic differentiation defect, suggesting that Erf affects cranial bone mineralization during skull development through retinoic acid gradient regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yan Zhou
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Andrew O. M. Wilkie
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen R. F. Twigg
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - George Mavrothalassitis
- Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- IMBB, FORTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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17
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Epstein RJ, Tian LJ, Gu YF. 2b or Not 2b: How Opposing FGF Receptor Splice Variants Are Blocking Progress in Precision Oncology. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2021; 2021:9955456. [PMID: 34007277 PMCID: PMC8110382 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9955456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
More than ten thousand peer-reviewed studies have assessed the role of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors (FGFRs) in cancer, but few patients have yet benefited from drugs targeting this molecular family. Strategizing how best to use FGFR-targeted drugs is complicated by multiple variables, including RNA splicing events that alter the affinity of ligands for FGFRs and hence change the outcomes of stromal-epithelial interactions. The effects of splicing are most relevant to FGFR2; expression of the FGFR2b splice isoform can restore apoptotic sensitivity to cancer cells, whereas switching to FGFR2c may drive tumor progression by triggering epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The differentiating and regulatory actions of wild-type FGFR2b contrast with the proliferative actions of FGFR1 and FGFR3, and may be converted to mitogenicity either by splice switching or by silencing of tumor suppressor genes such as CDH1 or PTEN. Exclusive use of small-molecule pan-FGFR inhibitors may thus cause nonselective blockade of FGFR2 isoforms with opposing actions, undermining the rationale of FGFR2 drug targeting. This splice-dependent ability of FGFR2 to switch between tumor-suppressing and -driving functions highlights an unmet oncologic need for isoform-specific drug targeting, e.g., by antibody inhibition of ligand-FGFR2c binding, as well as for more nuanced molecular pathology prediction of FGFR2 actions in different stromal-tumor contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J. Epstein
- New Hope Cancer Center, Beijing United Hospital, 9-11 Jiangtai West Rd, Chaoyang, Beijing 100015, China
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research and UNSW Clinical School, 84 Victoria St, Darlinghurst 2010 Sydney, Australia
| | - Li Jun Tian
- New Hope Cancer Center, Beijing United Hospital, 9-11 Jiangtai West Rd, Chaoyang, Beijing 100015, China
| | - Yan Fei Gu
- New Hope Cancer Center, Beijing United Hospital, 9-11 Jiangtai West Rd, Chaoyang, Beijing 100015, China
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18
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Torii D, Kobayashi T, Horie T, Tsutsui TW. Characterization of dental pulp stem cells isolated from a patient diagnosed with Crouzon syndrome. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:5317-5324. [PMID: 33386632 PMCID: PMC8048801 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Stem cells isolated from patients with rare diseases are important to elucidate their pathogeny and mechanisms to enable regenerative therapy. However, the mechanisms underlying tissue regeneration using patient‐derived dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are unclear. In this study, we investigated the levels of mRNA and protein expression related to cellular differentiation of Crouzon syndrome patient‐derived DPSCs (CS‐DPSCs) with a Gly338Arg fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 mutation. Multipotency‐related gene expression levels were equivalent in both healthy donor DPSCs and CS‐DPSCs. CS‐DPSCs showed higher osteocalcin (OCN) expression than healthy donor DPSCs. CS‐DPSCs showed a lower increase in the rate of OCN expression among phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA)‐treated cells than healthy donor DPSCs compared with untreated control cells. CS‐DPSCs showed a lower phosphorylation rate of p38 and p44/42 in PMA‐treated cells than healthy donor DPSCs compared with untreated control cells. These results demonstrate that CS‐DPSCs have higher OCN expression and lower PMA stimulation‐responsiveness than healthy donor DPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Torii
- Department of Pharmacology, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoko Kobayashi
- Research Center for Odontology, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Developmental and Regenerative Dentistry, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Horie
- Research Center for Odontology, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Oral Health, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeo W Tsutsui
- Department of Pharmacology, The Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan
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19
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Siismets EM, Hatch NE. Cranial Neural Crest Cells and Their Role in the Pathogenesis of Craniofacial Anomalies and Coronal Craniosynostosis. J Dev Biol 2020; 8:jdb8030018. [PMID: 32916911 PMCID: PMC7558351 DOI: 10.3390/jdb8030018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Craniofacial anomalies are among the most common of birth defects. The pathogenesis of craniofacial anomalies frequently involves defects in the migration, proliferation, and fate of neural crest cells destined for the craniofacial skeleton. Genetic mutations causing deficient cranial neural crest migration and proliferation can result in Treacher Collins syndrome, Pierre Robin sequence, and cleft palate. Defects in post-migratory neural crest cells can result in pre- or post-ossification defects in the developing craniofacial skeleton and craniosynostosis (premature fusion of cranial bones/cranial sutures). The coronal suture is the most frequently fused suture in craniosynostosis syndromes. It exists as a biological boundary between the neural crest-derived frontal bone and paraxial mesoderm-derived parietal bone. The objective of this review is to frame our current understanding of neural crest cells in craniofacial development, craniofacial anomalies, and the pathogenesis of coronal craniosynostosis. We will also discuss novel approaches for advancing our knowledge and developing prevention and/or treatment strategies for craniofacial tissue regeneration and craniosynostosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica M. Siismets
- Oral Health Sciences PhD Program, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078, USA;
| | - Nan E. Hatch
- Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-734-647-6567
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20
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Hasan MR, Takatalo M, Ma H, Rice R, Mustonen T, Rice DP. RAB23 coordinates early osteogenesis by repressing FGF10-pERK1/2 and GLI1. eLife 2020; 9:55829. [PMID: 32662771 PMCID: PMC7423339 DOI: 10.7554/elife.55829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the gene encoding Ras-associated binding protein 23 (RAB23) cause Carpenter Syndrome, which is characterized by multiple developmental abnormalities including polysyndactyly and defects in skull morphogenesis. To understand how RAB23 regulates skull development, we generated Rab23-deficient mice that survive to an age where skeletal development can be studied. Along with polysyndactyly, these mice exhibit premature fusion of multiple sutures resultant from aberrant osteoprogenitor proliferation and elevated osteogenesis in the suture. FGF10-driven FGFR1 signaling is elevated in Rab23-/-sutures with a consequent imbalance in MAPK, Hedgehog signaling and RUNX2 expression. Inhibition of elevated pERK1/2 signaling results in the normalization of osteoprogenitor proliferation with a concomitant reduction of osteogenic gene expression, and prevention of craniosynostosis. Our results suggest a novel role for RAB23 as an upstream negative regulator of both FGFR and canonical Hh-GLI1 signaling, and additionally in the non-canonical regulation of GLI1 through pERK1/2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Rakibul Hasan
- Craniofacial Development and Malformations research group, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maarit Takatalo
- Craniofacial Development and Malformations research group, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hongqiang Ma
- Craniofacial Development and Malformations research group, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ritva Rice
- Craniofacial Development and Malformations research group, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuija Mustonen
- Craniofacial Development and Malformations research group, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - David Pc Rice
- Craniofacial Development and Malformations research group, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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21
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Nam HK, Vesela I, Schutte SD, Hatch NE. Viral delivery of tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase diminishes craniosynostosis in one of two FGFR2C342Y/+ mouse models of Crouzon syndrome. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234073. [PMID: 32470062 PMCID: PMC7259715 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Craniosynostosis is the premature fusion of cranial bones. The goal of this study was to determine if delivery of recombinant tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) could prevent or diminish the severity of craniosynostosis in a C57BL/6 FGFR2C342Y/+ model of neonatal onset craniosynostosis or a BALB/c FGFR2C342Y/+ model of postnatal onset craniosynostosis. Mice were injected with a lentivirus encoding a mineral targeted form of TNAP immediately after birth. Cranial bone fusion as well as cranial bone volume, mineral content and density were assessed by micro CT. Craniofacial shape was measured with calipers. Alkaline phosphatase, alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) activity levels were measured in serum. Neonatal delivery of TNAP diminished craniosynostosis severity from 94% suture obliteration in vehicle treated mice to 67% suture obliteration in treated mice, p<0.02) and the incidence of malocclusion from 82.4% to 34.7% (p<0.03), with no effect on cranial bone in C57BL/6 FGFR2C342Y/+ mice. In contrast, treatment with TNAP increased cranial bone volume (p< 0.01), density (p< 0.01) and mineral content (p< 0.01) as compared to vehicle treated controls, but had no effect on craniosynostosis or malocclusion in BALB/c FGFR2C342Y/+ mice. These results indicate that postnatal recombinant TNAP enzyme therapy diminishes craniosynostosis severity in the C57BL/6 FGFR2C342Y/+ neonatal onset mouse model of Crouzon syndrome, and that effects of exogenous TNAP are genetic background dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwa Kyung Nam
- Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Iva Vesela
- Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sara Dean Schutte
- Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Nan E. Hatch
- Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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22
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Hou B, Cai W, Chen T, Zhang Z, Gong H, Yang W, Qiu L. Vaccarin hastens wound healing by promoting angiogenesis via activation of MAPK/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways in vivo. Acta Cir Bras 2020; 34:e201901202. [PMID: 32049183 PMCID: PMC7006371 DOI: 10.1590/s0102-865020190120000002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore the potential role and unclear molecular mechanisms of vaccarin in wound healing. Methods Rats’ skin excision model to study the effects of vaccarin on wound healing in vivo . Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to evaluate Histopathologic characteristics. Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the effects of vaccarin in accelerating angiogenesis. Western blot was used to evaluate relative protein expressed levels. Results Vaccarin could significantly promote wound healing and endothelial cells and fibroblasts proliferation in the wound site. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot studies showed that the nodal proteins and receptor (bFGFR) related to angiogenesis signaling pathway were activated, and the microvascular density in the wound site was markedly higher than that in the control group. Conclusions The present study was the first to demonstrate that vaccarin is able to induce angiogenesis and accelerate wound healing in vivo by increasing expressions of p-Akt, p-Erk and p-bFGFR. This process is mediated by MAPK/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.
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23
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Batista FP, de Aguiar RB, Sumikawa JT, Lobo YA, Bonturi CR, Ferreira RDS, Andrade SS, Guedes Paiva PM, dos Santos Correia MT, Vicente CM, Toma L, Sampaio MU, Paschoalin T, Girão MJBC, de Moraes JZ, de Paula CAA, Oliva MLV. Crataeva tapia bark lectin (CrataBL) is a chemoattractant for endothelial cells that targets heparan sulfate and promotes in vitro angiogenesis. Biochimie 2019; 166:173-183. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Abstract
Management strategies for syndromic craniosynostosis patients require multidisciplinary subspecialty teams to provide optimal care for complex reconstructive approaches. The most common craniosynostosis syndromes include Apert (FGFR2), Crouzon (FGFR2), Muenke (FGFR3), Pfeiffer (FGFR1 and FGFR2), and Saethre-Chotzen (TWIST). Bicoronal craniosynostosis (turribrachycephaly) is most commonly associated with syndromic craniosynostosis. Disease presentation varies from mild sutural involvement to severe pansynostoses, with a spectrum of extracraniofacial dysmorphic manifestations. Understanding the multifaceted syndromic presentations while appreciating the panoply of variable presentations is central to delivering necessary individualized care. Cranial vault remodeling aims to relieve restriction of cranial development and elevated intracranial pressure and restore normal morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajendra Sawh-Martinez
- Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale University, 330 Cedar Street, Boardman Building, 3rd Floor, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Derek M Steinbacher
- Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale-New Haven Hospital, Yale University, 330 Cedar Street, Boardman Building, 3rd Floor, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
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25
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Abstract
Deviations from the precisely coordinated programme of human head development can lead to craniofacial and orofacial malformations often including a variety of dental abnormalities too. Although the aetiology is still unknown in many cases, during the last decades different intracellular signalling pathways have been genetically linked to specific disorders. Among these pathways, the RAS/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signalling cascade is the focus of this review since it encompasses a large group of genes that when mutated cause some of the most common and severe developmental anomalies in humans. We present the components of the RAS/ERK pathway implicated in craniofacial and orodental disorders through a series of human and animal studies. We attempt to unravel the specific molecular targets downstream of ERK that act on particular cell types and regulate key steps in the associated developmental processes. Finally we point to ambiguities in our current knowledge that need to be clarified before RAS/ERK-targeting therapeutic approaches can be implemented.
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26
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Abstract
Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors (FGFRs) are expressed throughout all stages of skeletal development. In the limb bud and in cranial mesenchyme, FGF signaling is important for formation of mesenchymal condensations that give rise to bone. Once skeletal elements are initiated and patterned, FGFs regulate both endochondral and intramembranous ossification programs. In this chapter, we review functions of the FGF signaling pathway during these critical stages of skeletogenesis, and explore skeletal malformations in humans that are caused by mutations in FGF signaling molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Ornitz
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.
| | - Pierre J Marie
- UMR-1132 Inserm (Institut national de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale) and University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Hôpital Lariboisière, Paris, France
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27
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28
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Ferguson JW, Devarajan M, Atit RP. Stage-specific roles of Ezh2 and Retinoic acid signaling ensure calvarial bone lineage commitment. Dev Biol 2018; 443:173-187. [PMID: 30222957 PMCID: PMC6217976 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Development of the skull bones requires the coordination of two stem progenitor populations, the cranial neural crest cells (CNCC) and head paraxial mesoderm (PM), to ensure cell fate selection and morphogenesis. The epigenetic methyltransferase, Ezh2, plays a role in skull bone formation, but the spatiotemporal function of Ezh2 between the CNCC- and PM-derived bone formation in vivo remains undefined. Here, using a temporally-inducible conditional deletion of Ezh2 in both the CNCC- and PM- derived cranial mesenchyme between E8.5 and E9.5, we find a reduction of the CNCC-derived calvarial bones and a near complete loss of the PM-derived calvarial bones due to an arrest in calvarial bone fate commitment. In contrast, deletion of Ezh2 after E9.5 permits PM-derived skull bone development, suggesting that Ezh2 is required early to guide calvarial bone progenitor commitment. Furthermore, exposure to all-trans Retinoic acid at E10.0 can mimic the Ezh2 mutant calvarial phenotype, and administration of the pan retinoic acid receptor (RAR) antagonist, BMS-453, to Ezh2 mutants partially restores the commitment to the calvarial bone lineage and PM-derived bone development in vivo. Exogenous RA signaling activation in the Ezh2 mutants leads to synergistic activation of the anti-osteogenic factors in the cranial mesenchyme in vivo. Thus, RA signaling and EZH2 can function in parallel to guide calvarial bone progenitor commitment by balancing the suppression of anti-osteogenic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Ferguson
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States
| | - Mahima Devarajan
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States
| | - Radhika P Atit
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States; Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States.
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29
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Lee KKL, Peskett E, Quinn CM, Aiello R, Adeeva L, Moulding DA, Stanier P, Pauws E. Overexpression of Fgfr2c causes craniofacial bone hypoplasia and ameliorates craniosynostosis in the Crouzon mouse. Dis Model Mech 2018; 11:dmm035311. [PMID: 30266836 PMCID: PMC6262810 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.035311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
FGFR2c regulates many aspects of craniofacial and skeletal development. Mutations in the FGFR2 gene are causative of multiple forms of syndromic craniosynostosis, including Crouzon syndrome. Paradoxically, mouse studies have shown that the activation (Fgfr2cC342Y; a mouse model for human Crouzon syndrome), as well as the removal (Fgfr2cnull), of the FGFR2c isoform can drive suture abolishment. This study aims to address the downstream effects of pathogenic FGFR2c signalling by studying the effects of Fgfr2c overexpression. Conditional overexpression of Fgfr2c (R26RFgfr2c;βact) results in craniofacial hypoplasia as well as microtia and cleft palate. Contrary to Fgfr2cnull and Fgfr2cC342Y, Fgfr2c overexpression is insufficient to drive onset of craniosynostosis. Examination of the MAPK/ERK pathway in the embryonic sutures of Fgfr2cC342Y and R26RFgfr2c;βact mice reveals that both mutants have increased pERK expression. The contrasting phenotypes between Fgfr2cC342Y and R26RFgfr2c;βact mice prompted us to assess the impact of the Fgfr2c overexpression allele on the Crouzon mouse (Fgfr2cC342Y), in particular its effects on the coronal suture. Our results demonstrate that Fgfr2c overexpression is sufficient to partially rescue craniosynostosis through increased proliferation and reduced osteogenic activity in E18.5 Fgfr2cC342Y embryos. This study demonstrates the intricate balance of FGF signalling required for correct calvarial bone and suture morphogenesis, and that increasing the expression of the wild-type FGFR2c isoform could be a way to prevent or delay craniosynostosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin K L Lee
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Emma Peskett
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Charlotte M Quinn
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Rosanna Aiello
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Liliya Adeeva
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Dale A Moulding
- ICH GOSH Light Microscopy Core Facility, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Philip Stanier
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Erwin Pauws
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
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30
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Abstract
Craniosynostosis is a common craniofacial birth defect. This review focusses on the advances that have been achieved through studying the pathogenesis of craniosynostosis using mouse models. Classic methods of gene targeting which generate individual gene knockout models have successfully identified numerous genes required for normal development of the skull bones and sutures. However, the study of syndromic craniosynostosis has largely benefited from the production of knockin models that precisely mimic human mutations. These have allowed the detailed investigation of downstream events at the cellular and molecular level following otherwise unpredictable gain-of-function effects. This has greatly enhanced our understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease and has the potential to translate into improvement of the clinical management of this condition in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin K L Lee
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Philip Stanier
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Erwin Pauws
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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31
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Azoury SC, Reddy S, Shukla V, Deng CX. Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2 ( FGFR2) Mutation Related Syndromic Craniosynostosis. Int J Biol Sci 2017; 13:1479-1488. [PMID: 29230096 PMCID: PMC5723914 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.22373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Craniosynostosis results from the premature fusion of cranial sutures, with an incidence of 1 in 2,100-2,500 live births. The majority of cases are non-syndromic and involve single suture fusion, whereas syndromic cases often involve complex multiple suture fusion. The fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) gene is perhaps the most extensively studied gene that is mutated in various craniosynostotic syndromes including Crouzon, Apert, Pfeiffer, Antley-Bixler, Beare-Stevenson cutis gyrata, Jackson-Weiss, Bent Bone Dysplasia, and Seathre-Chotzen-like syndromes. The majority of these mutations are missense mutations that result in constitutive activation of the receptor and downstream molecular pathways. Treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach with ultimate surgical fixation of the cranial deformity to prevent further sequelae. Understanding the molecular mechanisms has allowed for the investigation of different therapeutic agents that can potentially be used to prevent the disorders. Further research efforts are need to better understand screening and effective methods of early intervention and prevention. Herein, the authors provide a comprehensive update on FGFR2-related syndromic craniosynostosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saïd C. Azoury
- Department of Surgery, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sashank Reddy
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vivek Shukla
- TGIB, NCI, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
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32
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Peskett E, Kumar S, Baird W, Jaiswal J, Li M, Patel P, Britto JA, Pauws E. Analysis of the Fgfr2C342Y mouse model shows condensation defects due to misregulation of Sox9 expression in prechondrocytic mesenchyme. Biol Open 2017; 6:223-231. [PMID: 28069589 PMCID: PMC5312100 DOI: 10.1242/bio.022178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Syndromic craniosynostosis caused by mutations in FGFR2 is characterised by developmental pathology in both endochondral and membranous skeletogenesis. Detailed phenotypic characterisation of features in the membranous calvarium, the endochondral cranial base and other structures in the axial and appendicular skeleton has not been performed at embryonic stages. We investigated bone development in the Crouzon mouse model (Fgfr2C342Y) at pre- and post-ossification stages to improve understanding of the underlying pathogenesis. Phenotypic analysis was performed by whole-mount skeletal staining (Alcian Blue/Alizarin Red) and histological staining of sections of CD1 wild-type (WT), Fgfr2C342Y/+ heterozygous (HET) and Fgfr2C342Y/C342Y homozygous (HOM) mouse embryos from embryonic day (E)12.5-E17.5 stages. Gene expression (Sox9, Shh, Fgf10 and Runx2) was studied by in situ hybridisation and protein expression (COL2A1) by immunohistochemistry. Our analysis has identified severely decreased osteogenesis in parts of the craniofacial skeleton together with increased chondrogenesis in parts of the endochondral and cartilaginous skeleton in HOM embryos. The Sox9 expression domain in tracheal and basi-cranial chondrocytic precursors at E13.5 in HOM embryos is increased and expanded, correlating with the phenotypic observations which suggest FGFR2 signalling regulates Sox9 expression. Combined with abnormal staining of type II collagen in pre-chondrocytic mesenchyme, this is indicative of a mesenchymal condensation defect. An expanded spectrum of phenotypic features observed in the Fgfr2C342Y/C342Y mouse embryo paves the way towards better understanding the clinical attributes of human Crouzon-Pfeiffer syndrome. FGFR2 mutation results in impaired skeletogenesis; however, our findings suggest that many phenotypic aberrations stem from a primary failure of pre-chondrogenic/osteogenic mesenchymal condensation and link FGFR2 to SOX9, a principal regulator of skeletogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Peskett
- UCL Great Ormond Street, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Samin Kumar
- UCL Great Ormond Street, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - William Baird
- UCL Great Ormond Street, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Janhvi Jaiswal
- UCL Great Ormond Street, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Ming Li
- UCL Great Ormond Street, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Priyanca Patel
- UCL Great Ormond Street, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Jonathan A Britto
- Craniofacial Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Erwin Pauws
- UCL Great Ormond Street, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
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33
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Salva JE, Merrill AE. Signaling networks in joint development. Dev Dyn 2016; 246:262-274. [PMID: 27859991 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we review studies identifying regulatory networks responsible for synovial, cartilaginous, and fibrous joint development. Synovial joints, characterized by the fluid-filled synovial space between the bones, are found in high-mobility regions and are the most common type of joint. Cartilaginous joints such as the intervertebral disc unite adjacent bones through either a hyaline cartilage or a fibrocartilage intermediate. Fibrous joints, which include the cranial sutures, form a direct union between bones through fibrous connective tissue. We describe how the distinct morphologic and histogenic characteristics of these joint classes are established during embryonic development. Collectively, these studies reveal that despite the heterogeneity of joint strength and mobility, joint development throughout the skeleton utilizes common signaling networks via long-range morphogen gradients and direct cell-cell contact. This suggests that different joint types represent specialized variants of homologous developmental modules. Identifying the unifying aspects of the signaling networks between joint classes allows a more complete understanding of the signaling code for joint formation, which is critical to improving strategies for joint regeneration and repair. Developmental Dynamics 246:262-274, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna E Salva
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Amy E Merrill
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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