1
|
Campos TL, Korhonen PK, Young ND, Chang BC, Gasser RB. Inference of essential genes in Brugia malayi and Onchocerca volvulus by machine learning and the implications for discovering new interventions. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:3081-3089. [PMID: 39185442 PMCID: PMC11342751 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.07.025] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Detailed explorations of the model organisms Caenorhabditis elegans (elegant worm) and Drosophila melanogaster (vinegar fly) have substantially improved our knowledge and understanding of biological processes and pathways in metazoan organisms. Extensive functional genomic and multi-omic data sets have enabled the discovery and characterisation of 'essential' genes that are critical for the survival of these organisms. Recently, we showed that a machine learning (ML)-based pipeline could be utilised to predict essential genes in both C. elegans and D. melanogaster using features from DNA, RNA, protein and/or cellular data or associated information. As these distantly-related species are within the Ecdysozoa, we hypothesised that this approach could be suited for non-model organisms within the same group (phylum) of protostome animals. In the present investigation, we cross-predicted essential genes within the phylum Nematoda - between C. elegans and the parasitic filarial nematodes Brugia malayi and Onchocerca volvulus, and then ranked and prioritised these genes. Highly ranked genes were linked to key biological pathways or processes, such as ribosome biogenesis, translation and RNA processing, and were expressed at relatively high levels in the germline, gonad, hypodermis and/or nerves. The present in silico workflow is hoped to expedite the identification of drug targets in parasitic organisms for subsequent experimental validation in the laboratory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Túlio L. Campos
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Núcleo de Bioinformática, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz., Av. Professor Moraes Rego, s/n, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE CEP 50740–465, Brazil
| | - Pasi K. Korhonen
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Neil D. Young
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Bill C.H. Chang
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Beckett LJ, Williams PM, Toh LS, Hessel V, Gerstweiler L, Fisk I, Toronjo-Urquiza L, Chauhan VM. Advancing insights into microgravity induced muscle changes using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:79. [PMID: 39060303 PMCID: PMC11282318 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-024-00418-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight presents significant challenges to the physiological state of living organisms. This can be due to the microgravity environment experienced during long-term space missions, resulting in alterations in muscle structure and function, such as atrophy. However, a comprehensive understanding of the adaptive mechanisms of biological systems is required to devise potential solutions and therapeutic approaches for adapting to spaceflight conditions. This review examines the current understanding of the challenges posed by spaceflight on physiological changes, alterations in metabolism, dysregulation of pathways and the suitability and advantages of using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes to study the effects of spaceflight. Research has shown that changes in the gene and protein composition of nematodes significantly occur across various larval stages and rearing environments, including both microgravity and Earth gravity settings, often mirroring changes observed in astronauts. Additionally, the review explores significant insights into the fundamental metabolic changes associated with muscle atrophy and growth, which could lead to the development of diagnostic biomarkers and innovative techniques to prevent and counteract muscle atrophy. These insights not only advance our understanding of microgravity-induced muscle atrophy but also lay the groundwork for the development of targeted interventions to mitigate its effects in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Beckett
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- School of Chemical Engineering, North Terrace Campus, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Li Shean Toh
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Volker Hessel
- School of Chemical Engineering, North Terrace Campus, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Lukas Gerstweiler
- School of Chemical Engineering, North Terrace Campus, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ian Fisk
- International Flavour Research Centre, Division of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
- International Flavour Research Centre (Adelaide), School of Agriculture, Food and Wine and Waite Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Luis Toronjo-Urquiza
- School of Chemical Engineering, North Terrace Campus, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Campos TL, Korhonen PK, Young ND, Wang T, Song J, Marhoefer R, Chang BCH, Selzer PM, Gasser RB. Inference of Essential Genes of the Parasite Haemonchus contortus via Machine Learning. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7015. [PMID: 39000124 PMCID: PMC11240989 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the years, comprehensive explorations of the model organisms Caenorhabditis elegans (elegant worm) and Drosophila melanogaster (vinegar fly) have contributed substantially to our understanding of complex biological processes and pathways in multicellular organisms generally. Extensive functional genomic-phenomic, genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data sets have enabled the discovery and characterisation of genes that are crucial for life, called 'essential genes'. Recently, we investigated the feasibility of inferring essential genes from such data sets using advanced bioinformatics and showed that a machine learning (ML)-based workflow could be used to extract or engineer features from DNA, RNA, protein, and/or cellular data/information to underpin the reliable prediction of essential genes both within and between C. elegans and D. melanogaster. As these are two distantly related species within the Ecdysozoa, we proposed that this ML approach would be particularly well suited for species that are within the same phylum or evolutionary clade. In the present study, we cross-predicted essential genes within the phylum Nematoda (evolutionary clade V)-between C. elegans and the pathogenic parasitic nematode H. contortus-and then ranked and prioritised H. contortus proteins encoded by these genes as intervention (e.g., drug) target candidates. Using strong, validated predictors, we inferred essential genes of H. contortus that are involved predominantly in crucial biological processes/pathways including ribosome biogenesis, translation, RNA binding/processing, and signalling and which are highly transcribed in the germline, somatic gonad precursors, sex myoblasts, vulva cell precursors, various nerve cells, glia, or hypodermis. The findings indicate that this in silico workflow provides a promising avenue to identify and prioritise panels/groups of drug target candidates in parasitic nematodes for experimental validation in vitro and/or in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Túlio L Campos
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (Fiocruz), Recife 50740-465, PE, Brazil
| | - Pasi K Korhonen
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Neil D Young
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Jiangning Song
- Department of Data Science and AI, Faculty of IT, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Monash Data Futures Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Richard Marhoefer
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Binger Strasse 173, 55216 Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Bill C H Chang
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Paul M Selzer
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Binger Strasse 173, 55216 Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen Y, Jin B, Yu J, Wu L, Wang Y, Tang B, Chen H. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans enhances tolerance to landfill leachate stress by increasing trehalose synthesis. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17332. [PMID: 38799059 PMCID: PMC11127639 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The burgeoning issue of landfill leachate, exacerbated by urbanization, necessitates evaluating its biological impact, traditionally overshadowed by physical and chemical assessments. This study harnesses Caenorhabditis elegans, a model organism, to elucidate the physiological toxicity of landfill leachate subjected to different treatment processes: nanofiltration reverse osmosis tail water (NFRO), membrane bioreactor (MBR), and raw leachate (RAW). Our investigation focuses on the modulation of sugar metabolism, particularly trehalose-a disaccharide serving dual functions as an energy source and an anti-adversity molecule in invertebrates. Upon exposure, C. elegans showcased a 60-70% reduction in glucose and glycogen levels alongside a significant trehalose increase, highlighting an adaptive response to environmental stress by augmenting trehalose synthesis. Notably, trehalose-related genes in the NFRO group were up-regulated, contrasting with the MBR and RAW groups, where trehalose synthesis genes outpaced decomposition genes by 20-30 times. These findings suggest that C. elegans predominantly counters landfill leachate-induced stress through trehalose accumulation. This research not only provides insights into the differential impact of leachate treatment methods on C. elegans but also proposes a molecular framework for assessing the environmental repercussions of landfill leachate, contributing to the development of novel strategies for pollution mitigation and environmental preservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuru Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Binsong Jin
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Yu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liangwei Wu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingying Wang
- National Wetland Museum of China, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bin Tang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huili Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sun S, Defosse T, Boyd A, Sop J, Verderose F, Surray D, Aziz M, Howland M, Wu S, Changela N, Jang J, Schindler K, Xing J, McKim KS. Whole transcriptome screening for novel genes involved in meiosis and fertility in Drosophila melanogaster. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3602. [PMID: 38351116 PMCID: PMC10864285 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53346-z] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Reproductive success requires the development of viable oocytes and the accurate segregation of chromosomes during meiosis. Failure to segregate chromosomes properly can lead to infertility, miscarriages, or developmental disorders. A variety of factors contribute to accurate chromosome segregation and oocyte development, such as spindle assembly and sister chromatid cohesion. However, many proteins required for meiosis remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to develop a screening pipeline for identifying novel meiotic and fertility genes using the genome of Drosophila melanogaster. To accomplish this goal, genes upregulated within meiotically active tissues were identified. More than 240 genes with no known function were silenced using RNA interference (RNAi) and the effects on meiosis and fertility were assessed. We identified 94 genes that when silenced caused infertility and/or high levels of chromosomal nondisjunction. The vast majority of these genes have human and mouse homologs that are also poorly studied. Through this screening process, we identified novel genes that are crucial for meiosis and oocyte development but have not been extensively studied in human or model organisms. Understanding the function of these genes will be an important step towards the understanding of their biological significance during reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Sun
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Tyler Defosse
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Ayla Boyd
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Joel Sop
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Faith Verderose
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Diya Surray
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Mark Aziz
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Margaret Howland
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Siwen Wu
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Neha Changela
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Janet Jang
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Karen Schindler
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 145 Bevier Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Jinchuan Xing
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
- Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 145 Bevier Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA.
| | - Kim S McKim
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 190 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Parvez S, Zhang T, Peterson RT. Scalable CRISPR Screens in Zebrafish Using MIC-Drop. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2707:319-334. [PMID: 37668922 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3401-1_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 is a powerful tool to interrogate gene function in a targeted and systematic manner. Although the technology has been scaled up for large-scale genetic screens in cell culture, similar scale screens in vivo have been extremely challenging due to the cost, labor, and time required to generate and keep track of thousands of mutant animals. We reported the development of Multiplexed Intermixed CRISPR Droplets (MIC-Drop), a platform that makes large-scale reverse genetic screens possible in zebrafish. In this chapter, we provide a detailed protocol to conduct large-scale genetic screens using this novel platform.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saba Parvez
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Tejia Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Randall T Peterson
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yamamoto S, Kanca O, Wangler MF, Bellen HJ. Integrating non-mammalian model organisms in the diagnosis of rare genetic diseases in humans. Nat Rev Genet 2024; 25:46-60. [PMID: 37491400 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00633-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing technology has rapidly accelerated the discovery of genetic variants of interest in individuals with rare diseases. However, showing that these variants are causative of the disease in question is complex and may require functional studies. Use of non-mammalian model organisms - mainly fruitflies (Drosophila melanogaster), nematode worms (Caenorhabditis elegans) and zebrafish (Danio rerio) - enables the rapid and cost-effective assessment of the effects of gene variants, which can then be validated in mammalian model organisms such as mice and in human cells. By probing mechanisms of gene action and identifying interacting genes and proteins in vivo, recent studies in these non-mammalian model organisms have facilitated the diagnosis of numerous genetic diseases and have enabled the screening and identification of therapeutic options for patients. Studies in non-mammalian model organisms have also shown that the biological processes underlying rare diseases can provide insight into more common mechanisms of disease and the biological functions of genes. Here, we discuss the opportunities afforded by non-mammalian model organisms, focusing on flies, worms and fish, and provide examples of their use in the diagnosis of rare genetic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Oguz Kanca
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael F Wangler
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Hugo J Bellen
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Davis GM, Hipwell H, Boag PR. Oogenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans. Sex Dev 2023; 17:73-83. [PMID: 37232019 PMCID: PMC10659005 DOI: 10.1159/000531019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans has proven itself as a valuable model for investigating metazoan biology. C. elegans have a transparent body, an invariant cell lineage, and a high level of genetic conservation which makes it a desirable model organism. Although used to elucidate many aspects of somatic biology, a distinct advantage of C. elegans is its well annotated germline which allows all aspects of oogenesis to be observed in real time within a single animal. C. elegans hermaphrodites have two U-shaped gonad arms which produce their own sperm that is later stored to fertilise their own oocytes. These two germlines take up much of the internal space of each animal and germ cells are therefore the most abundant cell present within each animal. This feature and the genetic phenotypes observed for mutant worm gonads have allowed many novel findings that established our early understanding of germ cell dynamics. The mutant phenotypes also allowed key features of meiosis and germ cell maturation to be unveiled. SUMMARY This review will focus on the key aspects that make C. elegans an outstanding model for exploring each feature of oogenesis. This will include the fundamental steps associated with germline function and germ cell maturation and will be of use for those interested in exploring reproductive metazoan biology. KEY MESSAGES Since germ cell biology is highly conserved in animals, much can be gained from study of a simple metazoan like C. elegans. Past findings have enhanced understanding on topics that would be more laborious or challenging in more complex animal models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M. Davis
- Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University, Churchill, VIC, Australia
| | - Hayleigh Hipwell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter R. Boag
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hu C, Garey KW. Nonmammalian models to study Clostridioides difficile infection; a systematic review. Anaerobe 2023; 79:102694. [PMID: 36626950 PMCID: PMC9975065 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2023.102694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Clostridioide difficile is the leading cause of diarrhea disease worldwide and is a CDC-designated urgent threat level pathogen. Mammalian models are commonly utilized as gold standard to study the pathogenesis of C. difficile infection (CDI); however, alternatives are needed due to cost, higher throughput ability, and mammalian animal ethics. Nonmammalian models such as great wax worm, nematode, fruit fly, and zebrafish have been used as CDI models. This review provides a comprehensive summary of nonmammalian models used to study CDI. Multiple studies were identified using these models to study C. difficile infection, pathogenicity, colonization, host immunity, and therapy. Translational outcomes and strength and weakness of each nonmammalian model are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenlin Hu
- University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, 77204, USA
| | - Kevin W Garey
- University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, 77204, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Santos-Silva T, Lopes CFB, Guimarães JDS, Valer FB, Kuhn GCSE, Romero TRL, Naves LA, Duarte IDG. Classical analgesic drugs modulate nociceptive-like escape behavior in Drosophila melanogaster larvae. RESEARCH RESULTS IN PHARMACOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.3897/rrpharmacology.8.91390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Nociceptive stimulus triggers escape responses in Drosophila melanogaster larvae, characterized by 360° rolling behavior along its own body axis. Therefore, it is possible to study analgesic drugs based on this stereotypical nociceptive-like escape behavior. Here, we aimed to develop an analgesic predictive validity test of thermal nociception through D. melanogaster larvae.
Materials and methods: We evaluated the effect of classical analgesics (morphine, dipyrone, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and dexamethasone (DXM)) in the rolling behavior latency of D. melanogaster larvae exposed to thermal-acute noxious stimulus and nociceptive sensitization paradigm. Drugs were injected into hemocoel (100 nL) before nociceptive measurement.
Results and discussion: Rolling behavior latency was increased by morphine (2, 4, 8 and 16 ng) in dose-dependent manner. Naloxone (4 ng) fully reversed maximum effect of morphine. Dipyrone (32, 64 and 128 ng) and DXM (8 and 16 ng) elicited dose-dependent antinociceptive effects. Exposure of larvae to 97% of maximal infrared intensity induced nociceptive sensitization, i.e., latency changed from 12 to 7.5 seconds. ASA (25, 50 and 100 ng) and DXM (4, 8 and 16 ng) were administered 150 min after nociceptive sensitization and displayed reverse sensitization in rapid onset (30 min after injection). DXM (16 ng), injected prior to nociceptive sensitization, displayed a delay in the onset of action (150 min after injection). Locomotor behaviors were not affected by analgesic substances.
Conclusion: Our findings open perspectives for evaluation and discovery of antinociceptive drugs using D. melanogaster larvae model.
Graphical abstract
Collapse
|
11
|
Stern CD. Reflections on the past, present and future of developmental biology. Dev Biol 2022; 488:30-34. [PMID: 35550127 PMCID: PMC10442289 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Developmental Biology embodies some of the most fundamental questions in Biology and can trace its roots back to several thousand years ago; the last 100 years have been particularly extraordinary. In part the advances have been fuelled by new technical advances and knowledge in many other areas, which have contributed to shaping the field as truly interdisciplinary. During those 100 years some of our predecessors identified some key questions and a few important principles especially by trying to find general rules that govern what cells are able to do and how they choose between different options, as well as principles of experimental design that can be used to uncover those rules even before we know their physicochemical underpinnings. But the field has been changing rapidly in the last two decades. Here I present a brief overview of some of the changes that have taken place over the last Century and a personal view of current directions. The picture that emerges is of some dark clouds on the horizon, so this is also a call to arms for our colleagues to try to regain what the field has been losing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D Stern
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Anatomy Building, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
In Darwin's and Mendel's times, researchers investigated a wealth of organisms, chosen to solve particular problems for which they seemed especially well suited. Later, a focus on a few organisms, which are accessible to systematic genetic investigations, resulted in larger repertoires of methods and applications in these few species. Genetic animal model organisms with large research communities are the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the fly Drosophila melanogaster, the zebrafish Danio rerio, and the mouse Mus musculus. Due to their specific strengths, these model organisms have their strongest impacts in rather different areas of biology. C. elegans is unbeatable in the analysis of cell-to-cell contacts by saturation mutagenesis, as worms can be grown very fast in very high numbers. In Drosophila, a rich pattern is generated in the embryo as well as in adults that is used to unravel the underlying mechanisms of morphogenesis. The transparent larvae of zebrafish are uniquely suited to study organ development in a vertebrate, and the superb versatility of reverse genetics in the mouse made it the model organism to study human physiology and diseases. The combination of these models allows the in-depth genetic analysis of many fundamental biological processes using a plethora of different methods, finally providing many specific approaches to combat human diseases. The plant model Arabidopsis thaliana provides an understanding of many aspects of plant biology that might ultimately be useful for breeding crops.
Collapse
|
13
|
De Robertis EM. The impact of developmental biology in the last 100 years. Dev Biol 2022; 489:118-121. [PMID: 35716718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
14
|
Haynes EM, Ulland TK, Eliceiri KW. A Model of Discovery: The Role of Imaging Established and Emerging Non-mammalian Models in Neuroscience. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:867010. [PMID: 35493325 PMCID: PMC9046975 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.867010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Rodents have been the dominant animal models in neurobiology and neurological disease research over the past 60 years. The prevalent use of rats and mice in neuroscience research has been driven by several key attributes including their organ physiology being more similar to humans, the availability of a broad variety of behavioral tests and genetic tools, and widely accessible reagents. However, despite the many advances in understanding neurobiology that have been achieved using rodent models, there remain key limitations in the questions that can be addressed in these and other mammalian models. In particular, in vivo imaging in mammals at the cell-resolution level remains technically difficult and demands large investments in time and cost. The simpler nervous systems of many non-mammalian models allow for precise mapping of circuits and even the whole brain with impressive subcellular resolution. The types of non-mammalian neuroscience models available spans vertebrates and non-vertebrates, so that an appropriate model for most cell biological questions in neurodegenerative disease likely exists. A push to diversify the models used in neuroscience research could help address current gaps in knowledge, complement existing rodent-based bodies of work, and bring new insight into our understanding of human disease. Moreover, there are inherent aspects of many non-mammalian models such as lifespan and tissue transparency that can make them specifically advantageous for neuroscience studies. Crispr/Cas9 gene editing and decreased cost of genome sequencing combined with advances in optical microscopy enhances the utility of new animal models to address specific questions. This review seeks to synthesize current knowledge of established and emerging non-mammalian model organisms with advances in cellular-resolution in vivo imaging techniques to suggest new approaches to understand neurodegeneration and neurobiological processes. We will summarize current tools and in vivo imaging approaches at the single cell scale that could help lead to increased consideration of non-mammalian models in neuroscience research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M. Haynes
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, United States
- Center for Quantitative Cell Imaging, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Tyler K. Ulland
- Department of Pathology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Kevin W. Eliceiri
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, United States
- Center for Quantitative Cell Imaging, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Evo-Devo of Urbilateria and its larval forms. Dev Biol 2022; 487:10-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|