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de Oliveira Figueiredo EC, Bondiolotti BM, Laugeray A, Bezzi P. Synaptic Plasticity Dysfunctions in the Pathophysiology of 22q11 Deletion Syndrome: Is There a Role for Astrocytes? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084412. [PMID: 35457231 PMCID: PMC9028090 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The 22q11 deletion syndrome (DS) is the most common microdeletion syndrome in humans and gives a high probability of developing psychiatric disorders. Synaptic and neuronal malfunctions appear to be at the core of the symptoms presented by patients. In fact, it has long been suggested that the behavioural and cognitive impairments observed in 22q11DS are probably due to alterations in the mechanisms regulating synaptic function and plasticity. Often, synaptic changes are related to structural and functional changes observed in patients with cognitive dysfunctions, therefore suggesting that synaptic plasticity has a crucial role in the pathophysiology of the syndrome. Most interestingly, among the genes deleted in 22q11DS, six encode for mitochondrial proteins that, in mouse models, are highly expressed just after birth, when active synaptogenesis occurs, therefore indicating that mitochondrial processes are strictly related to synapse formation and maintenance of a correct synaptic signalling. Because correct synaptic functioning, not only requires correct neuronal function and metabolism, but also needs the active contribution of astrocytes, we summarize in this review recent studies showing the involvement of synaptic plasticity in the pathophysiology of 22q11DS and we discuss the relevance of mitochondria in these processes and the possible involvement of astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bianca Maria Bondiolotti
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland; (E.C.d.O.F.); (B.M.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Anthony Laugeray
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland; (E.C.d.O.F.); (B.M.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Paola Bezzi
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland; (E.C.d.O.F.); (B.M.B.); (A.L.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: or
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Casamassa A, Ferrari D, Gelati M, Carella M, Vescovi AL, Rosati J. A Link between Genetic Disorders and Cellular Impairment, Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Reveal the Functional Consequences of Copy Number Variations in the Central Nervous System-A Close Look at Chromosome 15. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051860. [PMID: 32182809 PMCID: PMC7084702 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent cutting-edge human genetics technology has allowed us to identify copy number variations (CNVs) and has provided new insights for understanding causative mechanisms of human diseases. A growing number of studies show that CNVs could be associated with physiological mechanisms linked to evolutionary trigger, as well as to the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disease and mental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, intellectual disabilities or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Their incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity make diagnosis difficult and hinder comprehension of the mechanistic bases of these disorders. Additional elements such as co-presence of other CNVs, genomic background and environmental factors are involved in determining the final phenotype associated with a CNV. Genetically engineered animal models are helpful tools for understanding the behavioral consequences of CNVs. However, the genetic background and the biology of these animal model systems have sometimes led to confusing results. New cellular models obtained through somatic cellular reprogramming technology that produce induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from human subjects are being used to explore the mechanisms involved in the pathogenic consequences of CNVs. Considering the vast quantity of CNVs found in the human genome, we intend to focus on reviewing the current literature on the use of iPSCs carrying CNVs on chromosome 15, highlighting advantages and limits of this system with respect to mouse model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Casamassa
- Cellular Reprogramming Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale dei Cappuccini 1, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy;
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Viale Abramo Lincoln 5, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Daniela Ferrari
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Gelati
- Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale dei Cappuccini 1, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Massimo Carella
- Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale dei Cappuccini 1, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Angelo Luigi Vescovi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy;
- Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale dei Cappuccini 1, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.L.V.); (J.R.)
| | - Jessica Rosati
- Cellular Reprogramming Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Viale dei Cappuccini 1, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.L.V.); (J.R.)
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Participatory development of a patient-clinician communication tool to enhance healthcare transitions for young people with 22q11.2. Ir J Med Sci 2019; 189:761-769. [PMID: 31802373 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-019-02104-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with the rare genetic disorder, 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2ds), face particular challenges with transition from paediatric to adult health services due to complex physical and mental health care needs, often further complicated by intellectual disability (ID). To date, the lived experience of these young people navigating this complex journey has not been well researched. AIM The project sought to understand the lived experiences of young women with 22q11.2ds transitioning from child to adult health services and to elicit recommendations for improvement. METHODS Following ethical approval, six female participants, aged 19-35 years, were recruited through the family support organisation 22q11 Ireland. Adhering to participatory action research (PAR) principles, four full day sessions using creative research methodologies were conducted over a 4-month period. RESULTS Participants reported significant difficulties navigating transition between and within clinical services, and reported a lack of information transfer between healthcare services which required multiple retelling of their story. They expressed a low sense of confidence in new healthcare providers and reported ambivalence regarding their own agency and ability to manage clinical appointments without family or 'keyworker' support. Participants co-designed a patient-clinician communication tool to assist in information transfer and to capture salient features of any healthcare consultation. CONCLUSIONS There is a recognised need to strengthen transition pathways. This is especially true in this at risk group, given the poorer outcomes associated with transitions in youth with ID along with the additive effect of medical and mental health and learning difficulties that often co-occur in 22q11.2ds. A patient-clinician communication tool, designed by participants, offers a pragmatic approach to optimise healthcare transitions, support continuity of healthcare and personal autonomy.
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LaMantia A. The strengths of the genetic approach to understanding neural systems development and function: Ray Guillery's synthesis. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 49:888-899. [PMID: 29883004 PMCID: PMC6369024 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The organization and function of sensory systems, especially the mammalian visual system, has been the focus of philosophers and scientists for centuries-from Descartes and Newton onward. Nevertheless, the utility of understanding development and its genetic foundations for deeper insight into neural function has been debated: Do you need to know how something is assembled-a car, for example-to understand how it works or how to use it-to turn on the ignition and drive? This review addresses this issue for sensory pathways. The pioneering work of the late Rainer W. (Ray) Guillery provides an unequivocal answer to this central question: Using genetics for mechanistic exploration of sensory system development yields essential knowledge of organization and function. Ray truly built the foundation for this now accepted tenet of modern neuroscience. His work on the development and reorganization of visual pathways in albino mammals-all with primary genetic mutations in genes for pigmentation-defined the genetic approach to neural systems development, function and plasticity. The work that followed his lead in a variety of sensory systems, including my own work in the developing olfactory system, proceeds directly from Ray's fundamental contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony‐Samuel LaMantia
- Institute for Neuroscience and Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyThe George Washington University School of Medicine and Health SciencesWashingtonDistrict of Columbia
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Oh AK, Workman LA, Wong GB. Clinical Correlation of Chromosome 22q11.2 Fluorescent in Situ Hybridization Analysis and Velocardiofacial Syndrome. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2017; 44:62-6. [PMID: 17214538 DOI: 10.1597/05-192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify characteristics associated with microdeletions of chromosome 22q11.2 ascertained by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis in patients with velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI), cleft palate, or other clinical features of velocardiofacial syndrome (VCFS). Design/Setting: Retrospective review of all patients entered at one tertiary-level multidisciplinary cleft lip and palate and craniofacial anomalies panel from January 2000 to December 2003. Patients: The study consisted of 115 patients. The presence or absence of the following clinical features was documented: cleft palate (submucous and overt), VPI, cardiac anomalies, renal anomalies, small stature, characteristic facies, developmental delay, psychiatric dysfunction, and family history. Main Outcome Measure: Correlation between presence or absence of clinical features of VCFS and presence or absence of 22q11.2 microdeletion by FISH analysis. Results: Of the 16 patients (13.9%) who demonstrated 22q11.2 microdeletion by FISH analysis, 16 had VPI (100%), 16 had small stature (100%), 14 had cleft palate (88%), and 13 had characteristic facies (81%). Developmental delay was also present in 13 of these patients (81%), and seven had cardiac anomalies (44%). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the presence of characteristic facies and small stature statistically correlated with microdeletions of chromosome 22q11.2 by FISH studies (p < .05). Conclusions: Patients with microdeletions of chromosome 22q11.2 as demonstrated by FISH analysis were more likely to have VPI, small stature, cleft palate, characteristic facies, and developmental delay, in descending order. Statistical analysis showed that only characteristic facies and small stature correlated with 22q11.2 microdeletions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert K Oh
- Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Bakker G, Caan MWA, Schluter RS, Bloemen OJN, da Silva-Alves F, de Koning MB, Boot E, Vingerhoets WAM, Nieman DH, de Haan L, Booij J, van Amelsvoort TAMJ. Distinct white-matter aberrations in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and patients at ultra-high risk for psychosis. Psychol Med 2016; 46:2299-2311. [PMID: 27193339 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291716000970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with a deletion at chromosome 22q11.2 (22q11DS) have 30% lifetime risk of developing a psychosis. People fulfilling clinical criteria for ultra-high risk (UHR) for psychosis have 30% risk of developing a psychosis within 2 years. Both high-risk groups show white-matter (WM) abnormalities in microstructure and volume compared to healthy controls (HC), which have been related to psychotic symptoms. Comparisons of WM pathology between these two groups may specify WM markers related to genetic and clinical risk factors. METHOD Fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD) and mean diffusivity (MD) were assessed using diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and WM volume with structural MRI, in 23 UHR patients, 21 22q11DS patients, and 33 HC. RESULTS Compared to UHR patients 22q11DS patients had (1) lower AD and RD in corpus callosum (CC), cortical fasciculi, and anterior thalamic radiation (ATR), (2) higher FA in CC and ATR, and (3) lower occipital and superior temporal gyrus WM volume. Compared to HC, 22q11DS patients had (1) lower AD and RD throughout cortical fasciculi and (2) higher FA in ATR, CC and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus. Compared to HC, UHR patients had (1) higher mean MD, RD, and AD in CC, ATR and cortical fasciculi, (2) no differences in FA. CONCLUSIONS UHR and 22q11DS patients share a susceptibility for developing psychosis yet were characterized by distinct patterns of WM alterations relative to HC. While UHR patients were typified by signs suggestive of aberrant myelination, 22q11DS subjects showed signs suggestive of lower axonal integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bakker
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology,University of Maastricht,The Netherlands
| | - M W A Caan
- Department of Radiology,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
| | - R S Schluter
- Department of Radiology,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
| | - O J N Bloemen
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology,University of Maastricht,The Netherlands
| | - F da Silva-Alves
- Department of Psychiatry,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
| | - M B de Koning
- Department of Psychiatry,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
| | - E Boot
- Department of Nuclear Medicine,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
| | - W A M Vingerhoets
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology,University of Maastricht,The Netherlands
| | - D H Nieman
- Department of Psychiatry,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
| | - L de Haan
- Department of Psychiatry,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
| | - J Booij
- Department of Nuclear Medicine,Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam,Amsterdam,The Netherlands
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Muldoon M, Ousley OY, Kobrynski LJ, Patel S, Oster ME, Fernandez-Carriba S, Cubells JF, Coleman K, Pearce BD. The effect of hypocalcemia in early childhood on autism-related social and communication skills in patients with 22q11 deletion syndrome. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2015; 265:519-24. [PMID: 25267002 PMCID: PMC4379129 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-014-0546-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
22q11 deletion syndrome (22qDS), also known as DiGeorge syndrome, is a copy number variant disorder that has a diverse clinical presentation including hypocalcaemia, learning disabilities, and psychiatric disorders. Many patients with 22q11DS present with signs that overlap with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) yet the possible physiological mechanisms that link 22q11DS with ASD are unknown. We hypothesized that early childhood hypocalcemia influences the neurobehavioral phenotype of 22q11DS. Drawing on a longitudinal cohort of 22q11DS patients, we abstracted albumin-adjusted serum calcium levels from 151 participants ranging in age from newborn to 19.5 years (mean 2.5 years). We then examined a subset of 20 infants and toddlers from this group for the association between the lowest calcium level on record and scores on the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales-Developmental Profile Infant-Toddler Checklist (CSBS-DP ITC). The mean (SD) age at calcium testing was 6.2 (8.5) months, whereas the mean (SD) age at the CSBS-DP ITC assessment was 14.7 (3.8) months. Lower calcium was associated with significantly greater impairment in the CSBS-DP ITC Social (p < 0.05), Speech (p < 0.01), and Symbolic domains (p < 0.05), in regression models adjusted for sex, age at blood draw, and age at the psychological assessment. Nevertheless, these findings are limited by the small sample size of children with combined data on calcium and CSBS-DP ITC, and hence will require replication in a larger cohort with longitudinal assessments. Considering the role of calcium regulation in neurodevelopment and neuroplasticity, low calcium during early brain development could be a risk factor for adverse neurobehavioral outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Muldoon
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Dept. of Epidemiology. 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Opal Y. Ousley
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322,Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Autism Center, Department of Psychiatry, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Lisa J. Kobrynski
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 1405 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329
| | - Sheena Patel
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Dept. of Epidemiology. 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Matthew E. Oster
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Dept. of Epidemiology. 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322,Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 1405 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329
| | - Samuel Fernandez-Carriba
- Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Autism Center, Department of Psychiatry, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Joseph F. Cubells
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322,Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Autism Center, Department of Psychiatry, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322,Dept of Human Genetics, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Karlene Coleman
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta; Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 1405 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329,Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Bradley D. Pearce
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Dept. of Epidemiology. 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322,Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, 101 Woodruff Circle Atlanta, GA 30322
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Weischenfeldt J, Symmons O, Spitz F, Korbel JO. Phenotypic impact of genomic structural variation: insights from and for human disease. Nat Rev Genet 2013; 14:125-38. [PMID: 23329113 DOI: 10.1038/nrg3373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 374] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genomic structural variants have long been implicated in phenotypic diversity and human disease, but dissecting the mechanisms by which they exert their functional impact has proven elusive. Recently however, developments in high-throughput DNA sequencing and chromosomal engineering technology have facilitated the analysis of structural variants in human populations and model systems in unprecedented detail. In this Review, we describe how structural variants can affect molecular and cellular processes, leading to complex organismal phenotypes, including human disease. We further present advances in delineating disease-causing elements that are affected by structural variants, and we discuss future directions for research on the functional consequences of structural variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Weischenfeldt
- Genome Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Meyerhofstrasse 1, Heidelberg, 69117, Germany
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Ganji H, Salehi M, Sedghi M, Abdali H, Nouri N, Sadri L, Hosseinzadeh M, Vakili B, Lotfi M. Investigation of TBX1 gene deletion in Iranian children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: correlation with conotruncal heart defects. HEART ASIA 2013; 5:200-2. [PMID: 27326128 DOI: 10.1136/heartasia-2013-010327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND DiGeorge syndrome (DGS) is the result of a microdeletion in chromosome 22q11.2 in over 90% of cases. DGS is the second most frequent syndrome after Down syndrome and has an incidence of 1/4000 births. Unequal crossover between low-copy repeats, on the proximal part of the long arm of chromosome 22, usually results in a 3 Mb deletion in one of the chromosome 22 and a reciprocal and similarly sized duplication on the other one. Several studies have indicated that TBX1 (T-box 1) haploinsufficiency is responsible for many of the phenotypic traits of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Conotruncal heart defects (CTDs) are present in 75-85% of patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in Western countries. METHODS Among 78 patients fulfilling the criteria for DGS diagnosed by the fluorescence in situ hybridisation test, 24 had 22q11.2 deletion. Screening for TBX1 gene deletion was performed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA). RESULTS Our results revealed that of 24 patients with TBX1 gene deletion, 12 had CTDs while 12 did not show any heart defects. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that other genes or gene interactions may play a role in penetrance or the severity of heart disease among patients with DGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Ganji
- Pediatric Inherited Disease Research Center (PIDRC), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mansoor Salehi
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Medical School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Sedghi
- Pediatric Inherited Disease Research Center (PIDRC), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Abdali
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery , Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Nayereh Nouri
- Pediatric Inherited Disease Research Center (PIDRC), Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Leyli Sadri
- Students' Research Center, School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Majid Hosseinzadeh
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory , Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Bahareh Vakili
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory , Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Mahdi Lotfi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery , Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
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Squarcione C, Torti MC, Di Fabio F, Biondi M. 22q11 deletion syndrome: a review of the neuropsychiatric features and their neurobiological basis. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2013; 9:1873-84. [PMID: 24353423 PMCID: PMC3862513 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s52188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is caused by an autosomal dominant microdeletion of chromosome 22 at the long arm (q) 11.2 band. The 22q11DS is among the most clinically variable syndromes, with more than 180 features related with the deletion, and is associated with an increased risk of psychiatric disorders, accounting for up to 1%-2% of schizophrenia cases. In recent years, several genes located on chromosome 22q11 have been linked to schizophrenia, including those encoding catechol-O-methyltransferase and proline dehydrogenase, and the interaction between these and other candidate genes in the deleted region is an important area of research. It has been suggested that haploinsufficiency of some genes within the 22q11.2 region may contribute to the characteristic psychiatric phenotype and cognitive functioning of schizophrenia. Moreover, an extensive literature on neuroimaging shows reductions of the volumes of both gray and white matter, and these findings suggest that this reduction may be predictive of increased risk of prodromal psychotic symptoms in 22q11DS patients. Experimental and standardized cognitive assessments alongside neuroimaging may be important to identify one or more endophenotypes of schizophrenia, as well as a predictive prodrome that can be preventively treated during childhood and adolescence. In this review, we summarize recent data about the 22q11DS, in particular those addressing the neuropsychiatric and cognitive phenotypes associated with the deletion, underlining the recent advances in the studies about the genetic architecture of the syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Squarcione
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Torti
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Di Fabio
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Biondi
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Maria K, Charalampos T, Vassilakopoulou D, Stavroula S, Vasiliki K, Nikolaos D. Frequency Distribution of COMT Polymorphisms in Greek Patients with Schizophrenia and Controls: A Study of SNPs rs737865, rs4680, and rs165599. ISRN PSYCHIATRY 2012; 2012:651613. [PMID: 23762769 PMCID: PMC3671694 DOI: 10.5402/2012/651613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia, a severe psychiatric condition, is characterized by disturbances of cognition, emotion, and social functioning. The disease affects almost 1% of world population. Recent studies evaluating the role of catechol-O-methyltransferase enzyme (COMT) polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia have resulted in ambiguous findings. The current study examined the association of schizophrenia with three COMT polymorphisms, namely, rs737865, rs4680, and rs165599 in a Greek population. There was no significant association between schizophrenia and any of the three SNPs examined. However, haplotype analysis showed that cases have higher frequency of the T-A-A haplotype, and participants with that haplotype were at increased risk for developing schizophrenia (OR = 1.52; CL : 1.12–2.08; P = 0.008). Furthermore, patients with schizophrenia displayed an excess of TC/AA/AA and the TT/AA/GA genotypes. Similarly a protective effect of TT/GG/GG and TT/GA/GG was suggested by our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kotrotsou Maria
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, 15771 Athens, Greece
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Chakraborty D, Bernal AJ, Schoch K, Howard TD, Ip EH, Hooper SR, Keshavan MS, Jirtle RL, Shashi V, Shashi V. Dysregulation of DGCR6 and DGCR6L: psychopathological outcomes in chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Transl Psychiatry 2012; 2:e105. [PMID: 22832905 PMCID: PMC3337078 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2012.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is the most common microdeletion syndrome in humans. It is typified by highly variable symptoms, which might be explained by epigenetic regulation of genes in the interval. Using computational algorithms, our laboratory previously predicted that DiGeorge critical region 6 (DGCR6), which lies within the deletion interval, is imprinted in humans. Expression and epigenetic regulation of this gene have not, however, been examined in 22q11DS subjects. The purpose of this study was to determine if the expression levels of DGCR6 and its duplicate copy DGCR6L in 22q11DS subjects are associated with the parent-of-origin of the deletion and childhood psychopathologies. Our investigation showed no evidence of parent-of-origin-related differences in expression of both DGCR6 and DGCR6L. However, we found that the variability in DGCR6 expression was significantly greater in 22q11DS children than in age and gender-matched control individuals. Children with 22q11DS who had anxiety disorders had significantly lower DGCR6 expression, especially in subjects with the deletion on the maternal chromosome, despite the lack of imprinting. Our findings indicate that epigenetic mechanisms other than imprinting contribute to the dysregulation of these genes and the associated childhood psychopathologies observed in individuals with 22q11DS. Further studies are now needed to test the usefulness of DGCR6 and DGCR6L expression and alterations in the epigenome at these loci in predicting childhood anxiety and associated adult-onset pathologies in 22q11DS subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Chakraborty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - A J Bernal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - K Schoch
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - T D Howard
- Center for Genomics & Personalized Medicine Research and Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - E H Ip
- Center for Genomics & Personalized Medicine Research and Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - S R Hooper
- Department of Psychiatry and the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - M S Keshavan
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R L Jirtle
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - V Shashi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA,Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Box 102857, DUMC, 595 LaSalle Street, Durham, NC 27710, USA. E-mail:
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13
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Tunbridge EM. The catechol-O-methyltransferase gene: its regulation and polymorphisms. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2010; 95:7-27. [PMID: 21095457 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-381326-8.00002-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene is of significant interest to neuroscience, due to its role in modulating dopamine function. COMT is dynamically regulated; its expression is altered during normal brain development and in response to environmental stimuli. In many cases the underlying molecular basis for these effects is unknown; however, in some cases (e.g., estrogenic regulation in the case of sex differences) regulatory mechanisms have been identified. COMT contains several functional polymorphisms and haplotypes, including the well-studied Val158Met polymorphism. Here I review the regulation of COMT and the functional polymorphisms within its sequence with respect to brain function.
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Catechol-O-methyltransferase polymorphism modulates cognitive control in children with chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. COGNITIVE AFFECTIVE & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2009; 9:83-90. [PMID: 19246329 DOI: 10.3758/cabn.9.1.83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Dopamine plays a critical role in regulating neural activity in prefrontal cortex (PFC) and modulates cognition via a hypothesized inverse U function. We investigated PFC function in children with chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) in which one copy of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is deleted, thereby shifting them toward the lower end of dopamine turnover on the nonlinear function. A common polymorphism with valine to methionine substitution alters COMT activity that results in higher enzyme activity in the valine variant. Twenty-seven children with 22q11.2DS between 7 and 14 years old, and 21 age-matched typically developing children, performed a modified version of the Attention Network Test. Children with a single valine allele showed a reduction in response times when trials with incongruent flankers were repeated, whereas those who were hemizygous for the methionine allele did not show the same context-based response facilitation. Our results support that a single gene, COMT, could modulate PFC-dependent cognition.
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Addington AM, Rapoport JL. The genetics of childhood-onset schizophrenia: when madness strikes the prepubescent. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2009; 11:156-61. [PMID: 19302770 PMCID: PMC2763299 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-009-0024-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Stratification by age at onset has been useful for genetic studies across all of medicine. For the past 20 years, the National Institute of Mental Health has been systematically recruiting patients with onset of schizophrenia before age 13 years. Examination of familial transmission of known candidate risk genes was carried out, and a 10% rate of cytogenetic abnormalities was found. Most recently, high-density, array-based scans for submicroscopic rare copy number variations (CNVs) have suggested that this kind of genetic variation occurs more frequently than expected by chance in childhood-onset schizophrenia (COS) and at a higher rate than observed in adult-onset disorder. Several CNVs and cytogenetic abnormalities associated with COS are also seen in autism and mental retardation. Populations with COS may have more salient genetic influence than adult-onset cases. The relationship of rare CNVs to prepsychotic development is being studied further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjené M Addington
- Child Psychiatry Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Building 10, Room 3N202, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Gothelf D, Frisch A, Michaelovsky E, Weizman A, Shprintzen RJ. Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome. JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2009; 2:149-167. [PMID: 20111667 PMCID: PMC2811959 DOI: 10.1080/19315860902756136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Velocardiofacial syndrome (VCFS) also known as DiGeorge, conotruncal anomaly face and Cayler syndromes is caused by a microdeletion in the long arm of chromosome 22. We review the history of the syndrome from the first clinical reports almost half a century ago to the current intriguing molecular findings associating genes from the microdeletion region and the physical and neuropsychiatric phenotype of the syndrome. Velocardiofacial syndrome has a wide spectrum of more than 200 physical manifestations including palate and cardiac anomalies. Yet, the most challenging manifestations of VCFS are the learning disabilities and neuropsychiatric disorders. As VCFS is relatively common and as up to one third of the subjects with VCFS develop schizophrenia like psychotic disorder the syndrome is the most commonly known genetic risk factor to schizophrenia. Identifying the genetic, cognitive and psychiatric risk factors for VCFS-schizophrenia is under the focus of intensive research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doron Gothelf
- The Behavioral Neurogenetics Center, Feinberg Department of Child Psychiatry Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, Petah Tiqwa, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
| | - Amos Frisch
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqwa, Israel
| | - Elena Michaelovsky
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqwa, Israel
| | - Abraham Weizman
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Israel
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqwa, Israel
- Research Unit, Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqwa, Israel
| | - Robert J. Shprintzen
- Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome International Center and the Center for Genetic Communicative Disorders, Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Science, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
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Crespi B, Summers K, Dorus S. Genomic sister-disorders of neurodevelopment: an evolutionary approach. Evol Appl 2009; 2:81-100. [PMID: 25567849 PMCID: PMC3352408 DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-4571.2008.00056.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2008] [Accepted: 11/26/2008] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic sister-disorders are defined here as diseases mediated by duplications versus deletions of the same region. Such disorders can provide unique information concerning the genomic underpinnings of human neurodevelopment because effects of diametric variation in gene copy number on cognitive and behavioral phenotypes can be inferred. We describe evidence from the literature on deletions versus duplications for the regions underlying the best-known human neurogenetic sister-disorders, including Williams syndrome, Velocardiofacial syndrome, and Smith-Magenis syndrome, as well as the X-chromosomal conditions Klinefelter and Turner syndromes. These data suggest that diametric copy-number alterations can, like diametric alterations to imprinted genes, generate contrasting phenotypes associated with autistic-spectrum and psychotic-spectrum conditions. Genomically based perturbations to the development of the human social brain are thus apparently mediated to a notable degree by effects of variation in gene copy number. We also conducted the first analyses of positive selection for genes in the regions affected by these disorders. We found evidence consistent with adaptive evolution of protein-coding genes, or selective sweeps, for three of the four sets of sister-syndromes analyzed. These studies of selection facilitate identification of candidate genes for the phenotypes observed and lend a novel evolutionary dimension to the analysis of human cognitive architecture and neurogenetic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Crespi
- Department of Biosciences, Simon Fraser University Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Kyle Summers
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Steve Dorus
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath Bath, UK
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Abstract
PURPOSE 22q11 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is a very common, but commonly overlooked, disorder that has many variable features, such as serious heart defects, speech and articulation problems, immune compromise, learning problems, pervasive developmental disorders, and a late appearing phenotype of this condition--mental illness. CONCLUSION Persons with 22q11DS are likely to be medically complex patients with pervasive developmental disorders and late appearing mental problems. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Establishing this diagnosis is useful to families and healthcare providers to anticipate and address immediate and future issues surrounding health promotion, disease prevention, and health maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Grace Umlauf
- Capstone College of Nursing, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.
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Kokitsu-Nakata NM, Guion-Almeida ML, Richieri-Costa A. 22q11 deletion syndrome and limb anomalies: report on two Brazilian patients. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2008; 45:561-6. [PMID: 18788865 DOI: 10.1597/06-170.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report on two Brazilian patients with chromosome 22q11 deletion who presented with velopharyngeal insufficiency, congenital heart anomalies, developmental delay, and limb anomalies. The pattern of limb anomalies in these patients, which range from ectrodactyly to limb synostosis, is very uncommon in 22q11 deletion syndrome. CONCLUSION These patients widen the spectrum of clinical signs of the 22q11 deletion syndrome and alert researchers to conduct additional investigation in patients with limb involvement with velopharyngeal insufficiency and/or cardiac anomalies, along with developmental delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Mizue Kokitsu-Nakata
- Hospital de Reabilitação de Anomalias Craniofaciais, Universidade de São Paulo, Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Mehler-Wex C, J. Renner T. Genetische Befunde zu Schizophrenie. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER-UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2008; 36:17-26. [DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917.36.1.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung: Schizophrene Erkrankungen zeichnen sich durch eine sehr heterogene Symptomatik mit übergreifenden Funktionsstörungen verschiedenster kognitiver Bereiche aus. Die vielfältigen Phänotypen werden durch das Zusammenwirken von genetischer Prädisposition und Umwelteinflüssen erklärt. Pathophysiologische Modelle beinhalten die Dopamin-Überschuss- sowie Glutamat-Mangel-Hypothese, die Radikal-Hypothese und die Hypothese entwicklungsbedingter versus degenerativer Genese. Neben den neurobiologischen Erklärungsansätzen geben Kopplungsstudien mit nachfolgenden Feinkartierungen Hinweise auf potentiell an der Pathophysiologie beteiligte Gene. Den wichtigsten Kandidatengenen, wie Dysbindin (DTNBP1), Neuregulin1 (NRG1) oder DISC-1 (disrupted-in schizophrenia-1), werden Einfluss auf die Signalübertragung sowie der Ausbildung und dem Erhalt der Struktur von neuronalen Netzwerken zugeschrieben. Zu ihnen werden zahlreiche weitere Gene gezählt. Insgesamt ist bei der Pathogenese der Schizophrenie von einer multifaktoriellen Entstehung mit der Interaktion von verschiedenen genetischen und neurobiologischen sowie exogenen Komponenten auszugehen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Mehler-Wex
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie / Psychotherapie, Universität Ulm
| | - Tobias J. Renner
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie / Psychotherapie, Universität Würzburg
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21
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Abstract
Schizophrenia is widely held to stem from the combined effects of multiple common polymorphisms, each with a small impact on disease risk. We suggest an alternative view: that schizophrenia is highly heterogeneous genetically and that many predisposing mutations are highly penetrant and individually rare, even specific to single cases or families. This "common disease--rare alleles" hypothesis is supported by recent findings in human genomics and by allelic and locus heterogeneity for other complex traits. We review the implications of this model for gene discovery research in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon M McClellan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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Meechan DW, Maynard TM, Gopalakrishna D, Wu Y, LaMantia AS. When half is not enough: gene expression and dosage in the 22q11 deletion syndrome. Gene Expr 2007; 13:299-310. [PMID: 17708416 PMCID: PMC6032457 DOI: 10.3727/000000006781510697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The 22q11 Deletion Syndrome (22q11DS, also known as DiGeorge or Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome) has a variable constellation of phenotypes including life-threatening cardiac malformations, craniofacial, limb, and digit anomalies, a high incidence of learning, language, and behavioral disorders, and increased vulnerability for psychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia. There is still little clear understanding of how heterozygous microdeletion of approximately 30-50 genes on chromosome 22 leads to this diverse spectrum of phenotypes, especially in the brain. Three possibilities exist: 1) 22q11DS may reflect haploinsufficiency, homozygous loss of function, or heterozygous gain of function of a single gene within the deleted region; 2) 22q11DS may result from haploinsufficiency, homozygous loss of function, or heterozygous gain of function of a few genes in the deleted region acting at distinct phenotypically compromised sites; 3) 22q11DS may reflect combinatorial effects of reduced dosage of multiple genes acting in concert at all phenotypically compromised sites. Here, we consider evidence for each of these possibilities. Our review of the literature, as well as interpretation of work from our laboratory, favors the third possibility: 22q11DS reflects diminished expression of multiple 22q11 genes acting on common cellular processes during brain as well as heart, face, and limb development, and subsequently in the adolescent and adult brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Meechan
- Department of Cell & Molecular Physiology, UNC Neuroscience Center, & Silvio M. Conte Center for Research in Mental Diseases, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516-3005, USA
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Maynard TM, Meechan DW, Heindel CC, Peters AZ, Hamer RM, Lieberman JA, LaMantia AS. No evidence for parental imprinting of mouse 22q11 gene orthologs. Mamm Genome 2006; 17:822-32. [PMID: 16897343 PMCID: PMC2663429 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-006-0011-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2006] [Accepted: 03/27/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Non-Mendelian factors may influence central nervous system (CNS) phenotypes in patients with 22q11 Deletion Syndrome (22q11DS, also known as DiGeorge or Velocardiofacial Syndrome), and similar mechanisms may operate in mice carrying a deletion of one or more 22q11 gene orthologs. Accordingly, we examined the influence of parent of origin on expression of 25 murine 22q11 orthologs in the developing and mature CNS using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based analysis in interspecific crosses and quantification of mRNA in a murine model of 22q11DS. We found no evidence for absolute genomic imprinting or silencing. All 25 genes are biallelically expressed in the developing and adult brains. Furthermore, if more subtle forms of allelic biasing are present, they are very small in magnitude and most likely beyond the resolution of currently available quantitative approaches. Given the high degree of similarity of human 22q11 and the orthologous region of mmChr16, genomic imprinting most likely cannot explain apparent parent-of-origin effects in 22q11DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Maynard
- UNC Silvio O. Conte Center for the Neuroscience of Mental Disorders, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
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Tunbridge EM, Harrison PJ, Weinberger DR. Catechol-o-methyltransferase, cognition, and psychosis: Val158Met and beyond. Biol Psychiatry 2006; 60:141-51. [PMID: 16476412 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2005.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 526] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2005] [Revised: 10/10/2005] [Accepted: 10/22/2005] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes our current understanding of catechol-o-methyltransferase (COMT) and how it relates to brain function and schizophrenia. We begin by considering the COMT gene, its transcripts and proteins, and its relevance for central catecholamine function. We then describe how variation in COMT activity affects the function of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and associated areas, reviewing evidence that COMT modulates executive function and working memory and highlighting recent data that also implicate it in emotional processing. Finally, we discuss briefly the genetic association between COMT and schizophrenia, focusing in particular on the complex interaction of functional loci within the gene that may underlie the mixed results of studies to date. We conclude by outlining preliminary data indicating that COMT is a promising therapeutic target for ameliorating the cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia.
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Uddin RK, Zhang Y, Siu VM, Fan YS, O'Reilly RL, Rao J, Singh SM. Breakpoint Associated with a novel 2.3 Mb deletion in the VCFS region of 22q11 and the role of Alu (SINE) in recurring microdeletions. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2006; 7:18. [PMID: 16512914 PMCID: PMC1413517 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2350-7-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2005] [Accepted: 03/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chromosome 22q11.2 region is highly susceptible to rearrangement, specifically deletions that give rise to a variety of genomic disorders including velocardiofacial or DiGeorge syndrome. Individuals with this 22q11 microdeletion syndrome are at a greatly increased risk to develop schizophrenia. METHODS Genotype analysis was carried out on the DNA from a patient with the 22q11 microdeletion using genetic markers and custom primer sets to define the deletion. Bioinformatic analysis was performed for molecular characterization of the deletion breakpoint sequences in this patient. RESULTS This 22q11 deletion patient was established to have a novel 2.3 Mb deletion with a proximal breakpoint located between genetic markers RH48663 and RH48348 and a distal breakpoint between markers D22S1138 and SHGC-145314. Molecular characterization of the sequences at the breakpoints revealed a 270 bp shared sequence of the breakpoint regions (SSBR) common to both ends that share >90% sequence similarity to each other and also to short interspersed nuclear elements/Alu elements. CONCLUSION This Alu sequence like SSBR is commonly in the proximity of all known deletion breakpoints of 22q11 region and also in the low copy repeat regions (LCRs). This sequence may represent a preferred sequence in the breakpoint regions or LCRs for intra-chromosomal homologous recombination mechanisms resulting in common 22q11 deletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raihan K Uddin
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Victoria Mok Siu
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Yao-Shan Fan
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Richard L O'Reilly
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Jay Rao
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Shiva M Singh
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6A 5B7, Canada
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Councill JH, Tucker ES, Haskell GT, Maynard TM, Meechan DW, Hamer RM, Lieberman JA, LaMantia AS. Limited influence of olanzapine on adult forebrain neural precursors in vitro. Neuroscience 2006; 140:111-22. [PMID: 16564641 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2005] [Revised: 02/01/2006] [Accepted: 02/02/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated the activity of the atypical antipsychotic drug olanzapine on differentiation and gene expression in adult neural precursor cells in vitro. Neural precursors obtained from forebrain subventricular zone (SVZ)-derived neurospheres express a subset (13/24) of receptors known to bind olanzapine at high to intermediate affinities; in contrast, all 24 are expressed in the SVZ. In the presence of 10 nM, 100 nM or 1 microM olanzapine, there is no significant change in the frequency of oligodendrocytes, neurons, GABAergic neurons and astrocytes generated from neurosphere precursors. In parallel, there is no apparent change in cell proliferation in response to olanzapine, based upon bromodeoxyuridine incorporation. There are no major changes in cytological differentiation in response to the drug; however, at one concentration (10 nM) there is a small but statistically significant increase in the size of glial fibrillary acidic protein-labeled astrocytes derived from neurosphere precursors. In addition, olanzapine apparently modulates expression of one serotonin receptor -- 5HT2A -- in differentiating neurosphere cultures; however, it does not modify expression of several other receptors or schizophrenia vulnerability genes. Thus, olanzapine has a limited influence on differentiation and gene expression in adult neural precursor cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Councill
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, UNC Neuroscience Center, and Silvio M. Conte Center for Research in Mental Disorders, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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D'Antoni S, Mattina T, Di Mare P, Federico C, Motta S, Saccone S. Altered replication timing of the HIRA/Tuple1 locus in the DiGeorge and Velocardiofacial syndromes. Gene 2004; 333:111-9. [PMID: 15177686 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2004.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2003] [Revised: 12/19/2003] [Accepted: 02/10/2004] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
DiGeorge and Velocardiofacial syndromes (DGS/VCFS) are endowed by a similar complex phenotype including cardiovascular, craniofacial, and thymic malformations, and are associated with heterozygous deletions of 22q11 chromosomal band. The Typically Deleted Region in the 22q11.21 subband (here called TDR22) is very gene-dense, and the extent of the deletion has been defined precisely in several studies. However, to date there is no evidence for a mechanism of haploinsufficiency that can fully explain the DGS/VCFS phenotype. In this study, we show that the candidate gene HIRA/Tuple1 mapping on the non-deleted TDR22, in DGS/VCFS subjects presents a delayed replication timing. Moreover, we observed an increase in the cell ratio showing the HIRA/Tuple1 locus localised toward the nuclear periphery. It is known that replication timing and nuclear location are generally correlated to the transcription activity of the relative DNA region. We propose that the alteration in the replication/nuclear location pattern of the non-deleted TDR22 indicates an altered gene regulation hence an altered transcritpion in DGS/VCFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona D'Antoni
- Dipartimento di Pediatria, University of Catania, via S. Sofia 78, Catania I-95123, Italy
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Abstract
This article presents a conceptual review of the genetic underpinnings of psychotic mood disorders. Both unipolar and bipolar forms of mood disorder sometimes feature psychotic symptoms. Some evidence from epidemiological research suggests that psychotic forms of mood disorder specifically might be heritable. Linkage studies of mood disorders in general have also provided some support for that notion, as have associated studies involving serotonin and dopamine genes and psychotic mood disorder. Some research suggests there might be a genetic connection between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, undermining the Kraepelinian dichotomous classification of the psychoses. Future research should continue to examine psychotic forms of mood disorder using both epidemiological and molecular approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming T Tsuang
- Harvard Medical School Department of Psychiatry at the Massachusetts Mental Health Center, 74 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA, USA.
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Bhasin N, Kernick E, Luo X, Seidel HE, Weiss ER, Lauder JM. Differential regulation of chondrogenic differentiation by the serotonin2B receptor and retinoic acid in the embryonic mouse hindlimb. Dev Dyn 2004; 230:201-9. [PMID: 15162499 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) synthesizing and metabolizing enzymes are coordinately expressed with serotonin 2B (5-HT2B) receptors at sites of epithelial-mesenchymal (E-M) interaction in the mouse embryo (Bhasin et al., 1999). The promoter of the 5-HT2B receptor contains potential RA response element (RAREs) as well as an AP-2 site. Because both retinoid and serotonergic signaling have been implicated in the regulation of chondrogenic differentiation, the present study investigated whether these signals may work together to regulate this morphogenetic process in hindlimb bud micromass cultures. Results indicate that 5-HT promotes [35S]sulfate incorporation (chondrogenic differentiation) by activation of 5-HT2B receptors, which use the mitogen activated protein kinase (p42 MAPK) signal transduction pathway, whereas RA dose-dependently inhibits sulfate incorporation and promotes expression of RARbeta, which could lead to inhibition of p38 MAPK. No evidence was found to support the possibility that RA negatively regulates expression of 5-HT2B receptors. Taken together, these results suggest that 5-HT and RA may act as opposing signals to regulate chondrogenic differentiation in the developing hindlimb, possibly mediated by different MAPK signal transduction pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Bhasin
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7090, USA
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30
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Maynard TM, Haskell GT, Peters AZ, Sikich L, Lieberman JA, LaMantia AS. A comprehensive analysis of 22q11 gene expression in the developing and adult brain. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2003; 100:14433-8. [PMID: 14614146 PMCID: PMC283609 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2235651100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Deletions at 22q11.2 are linked to DiGeorge or velocardiofacial syndrome (VCFS), whose hallmarks include heart, limb, and craniofacial anomalies, as well as learning disabilities and increased incidence of schizophrenia. To assess the potential contribution of 22q11 genes to cognitive and psychiatric phenotypes, we determined the CNS expression of 32 mouse orthologs of 22q11 genes, primarily in the 1.5-Mb minimal critical region consistently deleted in VCFS. None are uniquely expressed in the developing or adult mouse brain. Instead, 27 are localized in the embryonic forebrain as well as aortic arches, branchial arches, and limb buds. Each continues to be expressed at apparently constant levels in the fetal, postnatal, and adult brain, except for Tbx1, ProDH2, and T10, which increase in adolescence and decline in maturity. At least six 22q11 proteins are seen primarily in subsets of neurons, including some in forebrain regions thought to be altered in schizophrenia. Thus, 22q11 deletion may disrupt expression of multiple genes during development and maturation of neurons and circuits compromised by cognitive and psychiatric disorders associated with VCFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Maynard
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders Research Center, Silvio O. Conte Center for the Neuroscience of Mental Disorders, Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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31
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Abstract
The pediatric neurologist can fulfill a useful role as a subspecialty consultant concerning the fetus with a suspected brain disorder, given that neurologic disease may occur before the intrapartum period. Brain disorders detected in the neonatal period may also reflect fetal brain damage before dysfunction is first documented. Medical conditions during the antepartum or intrapartum periods can alternatively predispose the fetus or neonate to express brain dysfunction at a later period, with either de novo or compounded brain injury. The pediatric neurologist must, therefore, consider maternal, placental, and fetal diseases on which a neonatal encephalopathy may be superimposed. This review article provides the neurologist with an integrative approach to fetal neurology, emphasizing perspectives from other subspecialties concerning maternal-fetal medicine, pathology, and neonatology, as well as other pediatric subspecialties. Evaluation of future strategies for either fetal or neonatal brain resuscitation will need to consider the developmental context in which a suspected brain injury occurred during the antepartum, intrapartum, and neonatal periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Scher
- Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case-Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106-6090, USA
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