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Afzal Z, Lange JJ, Nolte C, McKinney S, Wood C, Paulson A, De Kumar B, Unruh J, Slaughter BD, Krumlauf R. Shared retinoic acid responsive enhancers coordinately regulate nascent transcription of Hoxb coding and non-coding RNAs in the developing mouse neural tube. Development 2023; 150:dev201259. [PMID: 37102683 PMCID: PMC10233718 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Signaling pathways regulate the patterns of Hox gene expression that underlie their functions in the specification of axial identity. Little is known about the properties of cis-regulatory elements and underlying transcriptional mechanisms that integrate graded signaling inputs to coordinately control Hox expression. Here, we optimized a single molecule fluorescent in situ hybridization (smFISH) technique with probes spanning introns to evaluate how three shared retinoic acid response element (RARE)-dependent enhancers in the Hoxb cluster regulate patterns of nascent transcription in vivo at the level of single cells in wild-type and mutant embryos. We predominately detect nascent transcription of only a single Hoxb gene in each cell, with no evidence for simultaneous co-transcriptional coupling of all or specific subsets of genes. Single and/or compound RARE mutations indicate that each enhancer differentially impacts global and local patterns of nascent transcription, suggesting that selectivity and competitive interactions between these enhancers is important to robustly maintain the proper levels and patterns of nascent Hoxb transcription. This implies that rapid and dynamic regulatory interactions potentiate transcription of genes through combined inputs from these enhancers in coordinating the retinoic acid response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Afzal
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
- Anatomy and Cell Biology Department, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Jeffrey J. Lange
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Christof Nolte
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Sean McKinney
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Christopher Wood
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Ariel Paulson
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Bony De Kumar
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Jay Unruh
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | | | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
- Anatomy and Cell Biology Department, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
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2
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Lee S, Kim KH, Lee ES, Kim VJ, Kim SP, Ban S, Wang KC, Lee JY. The transcriptomic landscape of caudal cell mass in different developmental stages of the chick embryo. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:2101-2111. [PMID: 36181521 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05675-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The caudal cell mass (CCM) is an aggregate of undifferentiated pluripotent cells and the main player in secondary neurulation. Previous studies have elucidated the dynamic fate of the multipotent cell lineages, with a recent interest in the neuromesodermal progenitors. However, a transcriptomic analysis of the CCM during secondary neurulation has not been performed yet. METHODS We analyzed RNA sequencing data of CCM samples at three different developmental stages of chicken embryos; HH16 (largest CCM phase), HH20 (secondary neural tube formation phase), and HH28 (degeneration phase). RESULTS The transcriptomic profiles were clearly distinguishable according to developmental stage, and HH20 was shown to have not only intermediate, but also unique properties in secondary neurulation. A total of 10,666 differentially expressed genes, including FGF18 and GDF11, were identified and enriched in several gene ontologies related to embryogenesis or organogenesis. We also found that genes encoding transcription factors, such as TWIST2, IRX4, HOXB4, HOXD13, LIN28A, CDX4, and Brachyury, were among the top-ranked differentially expressed genes. CONCLUSION Through transcriptomic profiling, we provided a picture of the developmental process of the CCM. We identified several key molecules or pathways involved in secondary neurulation and the pathogenesis of related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungbok Lee
- Department of Genomic Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hyun Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehakro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Sun Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehakro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Veronica Jihyun Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehakro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Saet Pyoul Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehakro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Saeli Ban
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehakro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Chang Wang
- Center for Rare Cancers, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Yeoun Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehakro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea. .,Genomic Medicine Institute, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Chen S, An G, Wang H, Wu X, Ping P, Hu L, Chen Y, Fan J, Cheng CY, Sun F. Human obstructive (postvasectomy) and nonobstructive azoospermia - Insights from scRNA-Seq and transcriptome analysis. Genes Dis 2022; 9:766-776. [PMID: 35782978 PMCID: PMC9243341 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A substantial number of male infertility is caused by azoospermia. However, the underlying etiology and the molecular basis remain largely unknown. Through single-cell (sc)RNA sequencing, we had analyzed testis biopsy samples from two patients with obstructive azoospermia (OA) and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). We found only somatic cells in the NOA samples and explored the transcriptional changes in Sertoli cells in response to a loss of interactions with germ cells. Moreover, we observed a germ cell population discrepancy between an OA (postvasectomy) patient and a healthy individual. We confirmed this observation in a secondary study with two datasets at GSM3526588 and GSE124263 for detailed analysis wherein the regulatory mechanisms at the transcriptional level were identified. These findings thus provide valuable information on human spermatogenesis, and we also identified insightful information for further research on reproduction-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shitao Chen
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Geng An
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510150, PR China
| | - Hanshu Wang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, PR China
| | - Ping Ping
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, PR China
| | - Longfei Hu
- Singleron Biotechnologies Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, PR China
| | - Yunmei Chen
- Singleron Biotechnologies Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, PR China
| | - Jue Fan
- Singleron Biotechnologies Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, PR China
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Fei Sun
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200030, PR China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, PR China
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O’Connor C, Varshosaz P, Moise AR. Mechanisms of Feedback Regulation of Vitamin A Metabolism. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14061312. [PMID: 35334970 PMCID: PMC8950952 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient required throughout life. Through its various metabolites, vitamin A sustains fetal development, immunity, vision, and the maintenance, regulation, and repair of adult tissues. Abnormal tissue levels of the vitamin A metabolite, retinoic acid, can result in detrimental effects which can include congenital defects, immune deficiencies, proliferative defects, and toxicity. For this reason, intricate feedback mechanisms have evolved to allow tissues to generate appropriate levels of active retinoid metabolites despite variations in the level and format, or in the absorption and conversion efficiency of dietary vitamin A precursors. Here, we review basic mechanisms that govern vitamin A signaling and metabolism, and we focus on retinoic acid-controlled feedback mechanisms that contribute to vitamin A homeostasis. Several approaches to investigate mechanistic details of the vitamin A homeostatic regulation using genomic, gene editing, and chromatin capture technologies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine O’Connor
- MD Program, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, 317-MSE Bldg., 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
| | - Parisa Varshosaz
- Biology and Biomolecular Sciences Ph.D. Program, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
| | - Alexander R. Moise
- Medical Sciences Division, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, 317-MSE Bldg., 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Biology and Biomolecular Sciences Program, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-705-662-7253
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5
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Needham J, Metzis V. Heads or tails: Making the spinal cord. Dev Biol 2022; 485:80-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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6
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Hua T(T, Bejoy J, Song L, Wang Z, Zeng Z, Zhou Y, Li Y, Sang QXA. Cerebellar Differentiation from Human Stem Cells Through Retinoid, Wnt, and Sonic Hedgehog Pathways. Tissue Eng Part A 2021; 27:881-893. [PMID: 32873223 PMCID: PMC8336229 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2020.0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiating cerebellar organoids can be challenging due to complex cell organization and structure in the cerebellum. Different approaches were investigated to recapitulate differentiation process of the cerebellum from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) without high efficiency. This study was carried out to test the hypothesis that the combination of different signaling factors including retinoic acid (RA), Wnt activator, and sonic hedgehog (SHH) activator promotes the cerebellar differentiation of hiPSCs. Wnt, RA, and SHH pathways were activated by CHIR99021 (CHIR), RA, and purmorphamine (PMR), respectively. Different combinations of the morphogens (RA/CHIR, RA/PMR, CHIR/PMR, and RA/CHIR/PMR) were utilized, and the spheroids (day 35) were characterized for the markers of three cerebellum layers (the molecular layer, the Purkinje cell layer, and the granule cell layer). Of all the combinations tested, RA/CHIR/PMR promoted both the Purkinje cell layer and the granule cell layer differentiation. The cells also exhibited electrophysiological characteristics using whole-cell patch clamp recording, especially demonstrating Purkinje cell electrophysiology. This study should advance the understanding of different signaling pathways during cerebellar development to engineer cerebellum organoids for drug screening and disease modeling. Impact statement This study investigated the synergistic effects of retinoic acid, Wnt activator, and sonic hedgehog activator on cerebellar patterning of human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) spheroids and organoids. The results indicate that the combination promotes the differentiation of the Purkinje cell layer and the granule cell layer. The cells also exhibit electrophysiological characteristics using whole-cell patch clamp recording, especially demonstrating Purkinje cell electrophysiology. The findings are significant for understanding the biochemical signaling of three-dimensional microenvironment on neural patterning of hiPSCs for applications in organoid engineering, disease modeling, and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thien (Timothy) Hua
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Julie Bejoy
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Liqing Song
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Ziwei Zeng
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Qing-Xiang Amy Sang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
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7
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The Hox protein conundrum: The "specifics" of DNA binding for Hox proteins and their partners. Dev Biol 2021; 477:284-292. [PMID: 34102167 PMCID: PMC8846413 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Homeotic genes (Hox genes) are homeodomain-transcription factors involved in conferring segmental identity along the anterior-posterior body axis. Molecular characterization of HOX protein function raises some interesting questions regarding the source of the binding specificity of the HOX proteins. How do HOX proteins regulate common and unique target specificity across space and time? This review attempts to summarize and interpret findings in this area, largely focused on results from in vitro and in vivo studies in Drosophila and mouse systems. Recent studies related to HOX protein binding specificity compel us to reconsider some of our current models for transcription factor-DNA interactions. It is crucial to study transcription factor binding by incorporating components of more complex, multi-protein interactions in concert with small changes in binding motifs that can significantly impact DNA binding specificity and subsequent alterations in gene expression. To incorporate the multiple elements that can determine HOX protein binding specificity, we propose a more integrative Cooperative Binding model.
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8
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Genome-Wide Binding Analyses of HOXB1 Revealed a Novel DNA Binding Motif Associated with Gene Repression. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9010006. [PMID: 33546292 PMCID: PMC7931043 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of the diverse DNA binding specificities of transcription factors is important for understanding their specific regulatory functions in animal development and evolution. We have examined the genome-wide binding properties of the mouse HOXB1 protein in embryonic stem cells differentiated into neural fates. Unexpectedly, only a small number of HOXB1 bound regions (7%) correlate with binding of the known HOX cofactors PBX and MEIS. In contrast, 22% of the HOXB1 binding peaks display co-occupancy with the transcriptional repressor REST. Analyses revealed that co-binding of HOXB1 with PBX correlates with active histone marks and high levels of expression, while co-occupancy with REST correlates with repressive histone marks and repression of the target genes. Analysis of HOXB1 bound regions uncovered enrichment of a novel 15 base pair HOXB1 binding motif HB1RE (HOXB1 response element). In vitro template binding assays showed that HOXB1, PBX1, and MEIS can bind to this motif. In vivo, this motif is sufficient for direct expression of a reporter gene and over-expression of HOXB1 selectively represses this activity. Our analyses suggest that HOXB1 has evolved an association with REST in gene regulation and the novel HB1RE motif contributes to HOXB1 function in part through a repressive role in gene expression.
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9
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Pai P, Sukumar S. HOX genes and the NF-κB pathway: A convergence of developmental biology, inflammation and cancer biology. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1874:188450. [PMID: 33049277 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The roles of HOX transcription factors as oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, and the NF-KB pathway in chronic inflammation, both leading to cancer are well-established. HOX transcription factors are members of an evolutionarily conserved family of proteins required for anteroposterior body axis patterning during embryonic development, and are often dysregulated in cancer. The NF-KB pathway aids inflammation and immunity but it is also important during embryonic development. It is frequently activated in both solid and hematological malignancies. NF-KB and HOX proteins can influence each other through mutual transcriptional regulation, protein-protein interactions, and regulation of upstream and downstream interactors. These interactions have important implications both in homeostasis and in disease. In this review, we summarize the role of HOX proteins in regulating inflammation in homeostasis and disease- with a particular emphasis on cancer. We also describe the relationship between HOX genes and the NF-KB pathway, and discuss potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Pai
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Saraswati Sukumar
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
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10
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Itoh T, Takeuchi M, Sakagami M, Asakawa K, Sumiyama K, Kawakami K, Shimizu T, Hibi M. Gsx2 is required for specification of neurons in the inferior olivary nuclei from Ptf1a-expressing neural progenitors in zebrafish. Development 2020; 147:dev.190603. [PMID: 32928905 DOI: 10.1242/dev.190603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurons in the inferior olivary nuclei (IO neurons) send climbing fibers to Purkinje cells to elicit functions of the cerebellum. IO neurons and Purkinje cells are derived from neural progenitors expressing the proneural gene ptf1a In this study, we found that the homeobox gene gsx2 was co-expressed with ptf1a in IO progenitors in zebrafish. Both gsx2 and ptf1a zebrafish mutants showed a strong reduction or loss of IO neurons. The expression of ptf1a was not affected in gsx2 mutants, and vice versa. In IO progenitors, the ptf1a mutation increased apoptosis whereas the gsx2 mutation did not, suggesting that ptf1a and gsx2 are regulated independently of each other and have distinct roles. The fibroblast growth factors (Fgf) 3 and 8a, and retinoic acid signals negatively and positively, respectively, regulated gsx2 expression and thereby the development of IO neurons. mafba and Hox genes are at least partly involved in the Fgf- and retinoic acid-dependent regulation of IO neuronal development. Our results indicate that gsx2 mediates the rostro-caudal positional signals to specify the identity of IO neurons from ptf1a-expressing neural progenitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsubasa Itoh
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Miki Takeuchi
- Bioscience and Biotechnology Center, Nagoya University, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Marina Sakagami
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Asakawa
- Laboratory of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Kenta Sumiyama
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Koichi Kawakami
- Laboratory of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Takashi Shimizu
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan.,Bioscience and Biotechnology Center, Nagoya University, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Masahiko Hibi
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan .,Bioscience and Biotechnology Center, Nagoya University, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
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11
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Méndez-Maldonado K, Vega-López GA, Aybar MJ, Velasco I. Neurogenesis From Neural Crest Cells: Molecular Mechanisms in the Formation of Cranial Nerves and Ganglia. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:635. [PMID: 32850790 PMCID: PMC7427511 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The neural crest (NC) is a transient multipotent cell population that originates in the dorsal neural tube. Cells of the NC are highly migratory, as they travel considerable distances through the body to reach their final sites. Derivatives of the NC are neurons and glia of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and the enteric nervous system as well as non-neural cells. Different signaling pathways triggered by Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs), Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs), Wnt proteins, Notch ligands, retinoic acid (RA), and Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) participate in the processes of induction, specification, cell migration and neural differentiation of the NC. A specific set of signaling pathways and transcription factors are initially expressed in the neural plate border and then in the NC cell precursors to the formation of cranial nerves. The molecular mechanisms of control during embryonic development have been gradually elucidated, pointing to an important role of transcriptional regulators when neural differentiation occurs. However, some of these proteins have an important participation in malformations of the cranial portion and their mutation results in aberrant neurogenesis. This review aims to give an overview of the role of cell signaling and of the function of transcription factors involved in the specification of ganglia precursors and neurogenesis to form the NC-derived cranial nerves during organogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Méndez-Maldonado
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular - Neurociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.,Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Guillermo A Vega-López
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO, CONICET-UNT), San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina.,Instituto de Biología "Dr. Francisco D. Barbieri", Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Manuel J Aybar
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO, CONICET-UNT), San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina.,Instituto de Biología "Dr. Francisco D. Barbieri", Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Iván Velasco
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular - Neurociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.,Laboratorio de Reprogramación Celular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía "Manuel Velasco Suárez", Ciudad de México, Mexico
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12
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Olmsted ZT, Stigliano C, Badri A, Zhang F, Williams A, Koffas MAG, Xie Y, Linhardt RJ, Cibelli J, Horner PJ, Paluh JL. Fabrication of homotypic neural ribbons as a multiplex platform optimized for spinal cord delivery. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12939. [PMID: 32737387 PMCID: PMC7395100 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69274-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy for the injured spinal cord will rely on combined advances in human stem cell technologies and delivery strategies. Here we encapsulate homotypic spinal cord neural stem cells (scNSCs) in an alginate-based neural ribbon delivery platform. We perform a comprehensive in vitro analysis and qualitatively demonstrate graft survival and injury site retention using a rat C4 hemi-contusion model. Pre-configured neural ribbons are transport-stable modules that enable site-ready injection, and can support scNSC survival and retention in vivo. Neural ribbons offer multifunctionality in vitro including co-encapsulation of the injury site extracellular matrix modifier chondroitinase ABC (chABC), tested here in glial scar models, and ability of cervically-patterned scNSCs to differentiate within neural ribbons and project axons for integration with 3-D external matrices. This is the first extensive in vitro characterization of neural ribbon technology, and constitutes a plausible method for reproducible delivery, placement, and retention of viable neural cells in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary T Olmsted
- Nanobioscience Constellation, Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, NanoFab East, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY, 12203, USA
| | - Cinzia Stigliano
- Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave. R10-North, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Abinaya Badri
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th St, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Fuming Zhang
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th St, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Asher Williams
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th St, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Mattheos A G Koffas
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th St, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Yubing Xie
- Nanobioscience Constellation, Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, NanoFab East, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY, 12203, USA
| | - Robert J Linhardt
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th St, Troy, NY, 12180, USA
| | - Jose Cibelli
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Philip J Horner
- Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave. R10-North, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Janet L Paluh
- Nanobioscience Constellation, Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, NanoFab East, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY, 12203, USA.
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13
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Yasuoka Y. Enhancer evolution in chordates: Lessons from functional analyses of cephalochordate cis‐regulatory modules. Dev Growth Differ 2020; 62:279-300. [DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuuri Yasuoka
- Laboratory for Comprehensive Genomic Analysis RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences Tsurumi‐ku Japan
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14
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Parker HJ, Krumlauf R. A Hox gene regulatory network for hindbrain segmentation. Curr Top Dev Biol 2020; 139:169-203. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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15
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Cambronero F, Ariza‐McNaughton L, Wiedemann LM, Krumlauf R. Inter‐rhombomeric interactions reveal roles for fibroblast growth factors signaling in segmental regulation of
EphA4
expression. Dev Dyn 2019; 249:354-368. [DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leanne M. Wiedemann
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research Kansas City Missouri
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineKansas University Medical Center Kansas City Kansas
| | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research Kansas City Missouri
- Division of Developmental NeurobiologyNational Institute for Medical Research London UK
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyKansas University Medical School Kansas City Kansas
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16
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Durston AJ. What are the roles of retinoids, other morphogens, and Hox genes in setting up the vertebrate body axis? Genesis 2019; 57:e23296. [PMID: 31021058 PMCID: PMC6767176 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
This article is concerned with the roles of retinoids and other known anterior-posterior morphogens in setting up the embryonic vertebrate anterior-posterior axis. The discussion is restricted to the very earliest events in setting up the anterior-posterior axis (from blastula to tailbud stages in Xenopus embryos). In these earliest developmental stages, morphogen concentration gradients are not relevant for setting up this axis. It emerges that at these stages, the core patterning mechanism is timing: BMP-anti BMP mediated time space translation that regulates Hox temporal and spatial collinearities and Hox-Hox auto- and cross- regulation. The known anterior-posterior morphogens and signaling pathways--retinoids, FGF's, Cdx, Wnts, Gdf11 and others--interact with this core mechanism at and after space-time defined "decision points," leading to the separation of distinct axial domains. There are also other roles for signaling pathways. Besides the Hox regulated hindbrain/trunk part of the axis, there is a rostral part (including the anterior part of the head and the extreme anterior domain [EAD]) that appears to be regulated by additional mechanisms. Key aspects of anterior-posterior axial patterning, including: the nature of different phases in early patterning and in the whole process; the specificities of Hox action and of intercellular signaling; and the mechanisms of Hox temporal and spatial collinearities, are discussed in relation to the facts and hypotheses proposed above.
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17
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Suh J, Eom JH, Kim NK, Woo KM, Baek JH, Ryoo HM, Lee SJ, Lee YS. Growth differentiation factor 11 locally controls anterior-posterior patterning of the axial skeleton. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:23360-23368. [PMID: 31183862 PMCID: PMC6772169 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Growth and differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a transforming growth factor β family member that has been identified as the central player of anterior-posterior (A-P) axial skeletal patterning. Mice homozygous for Gdf11 deletion exhibit severe anterior homeotic transformations of the vertebrae and craniofacial defects. During early embryogenesis, Gdf11 is expressed predominantly in the primitive streak and tail bud regions, where new mesodermal cells arise. On the basis of this expression pattern of Gdf11 and the phenotype of Gdf11 mutant mice, it has been suggested that GDF11 acts to specify positional identity along the A-P axis either by local changes in levels of signaling as development proceeds or by acting as a morphogen. To further investigate the mechanism of action of GDF11 in the vertebral specification, we used a Cdx2-Cre transgene to generate mosaic mice in which Gdf11 expression is removed in posterior regions including the tail bud, but not in anterior regions. The skeletal analysis revealed that these mosaic mice display patterning defects limited to posterior regions where Gdf11 expression is deficient, whereas displaying normal skeletal phenotype in anterior regions where Gdf11 is normally expressed. Specifically, the mosaic mice exhibited seven true ribs, a pattern observed in wild-type (wt) mice (vs. 10 true ribs in Gdf11-/- mice), in the anterior axis and nine lumbar vertebrae, a pattern observed in Gdf11 null mice (vs. six lumbar vertebrae in wt mice), in the posterior axis. Our findings suggest that GDF11, rather than globally acting as a morphogen secreted from the tail bud, locally regulates axial vertebral patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonho Suh
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Hyun Eom
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Na-Kyung Kim
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Mi Woo
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hwa Baek
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Mo Ryoo
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Jin Lee
- The Jackson Laboratory, Farmington, Connecticut.,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Yun-Sil Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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18
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Nolte C, De Kumar B, Krumlauf R. Hox genes: Downstream "effectors" of retinoic acid signaling in vertebrate embryogenesis. Genesis 2019; 57:e23306. [PMID: 31111645 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
One of the major regulatory challenges of animal development is to precisely coordinate in space and time the formation, specification, and patterning of cells that underlie elaboration of the basic body plan. How does the vertebrate plan for the nervous and hematopoietic systems, heart, limbs, digestive, and reproductive organs derive from seemingly similar population of cells? These systems are initially established and patterned along the anteroposterior axis (AP) by opposing signaling gradients that lead to the activation of gene regulatory networks involved in axial specification, including the Hox genes. The retinoid signaling pathway is one of the key signaling gradients coupled to the establishment of axial patterning. The nested domains of Hox gene expression, which provide a combinatorial code for axial patterning, arise in part through a differential response to retinoic acid (RA) diffusing from anabolic centers established within the embryo during development. Hence, Hox genes are important direct effectors of retinoid signaling in embryogenesis. This review focuses on describing current knowledge on the complex mechanisms and regulatory processes, which govern the response of Hox genes to RA in several tissue contexts including the nervous system during vertebrate development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christof Nolte
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Bony De Kumar
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
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19
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Parker HJ, Bronner ME, Krumlauf R. An atlas of anterior hox gene expression in the embryonic sea lamprey head: Hox-code evolution in vertebrates. Dev Biol 2019; 453:19-33. [PMID: 31071313 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In the hindbrain and the adjacent cranial neural crest (NC) cells of jawed vertebrates (gnathostomes), nested and segmentally-restricted domains of Hox gene expression provide a combinatorial Hox-code for specifying regional properties during head development. Extant jawless vertebrates, such as the sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus), can provide insights into the evolution and diversification of this Hox-code in vertebrates. There is evidence for gnathostome-like spatial patterns of Hox expression in lamprey; however, the expression domains of the majority of lamprey hox genes from paralogy groups (PG) 1-4 are yet to be characterized, so it is unknown whether they are coupled to hindbrain segments (rhombomeres) and NC. In this study, we systematically describe the spatiotemporal expression of all 14 sea lamprey hox genes from PG1-PG4 in the developing hindbrain and pharynx to investigate the extent to which their expression conforms to the archetypal gnathostome hindbrain and pharyngeal hox-codes. We find many similarities in Hox expression between lamprey and gnathostome species, particularly in rhombomeric domains during hindbrain segmentation and in the cranial neural crest, enabling inference of aspects of Hox expression in the ancestral vertebrate embryonic head. These data are consistent with the idea that a Hox regulatory network underlying hindbrain segmentation is a pan vertebrate trait. We also reveal differences in hindbrain domains at later stages, as well as expression in the endostyle and in pharyngeal arch (PA) 1 mesoderm. Our analysis suggests that many Hox expression domains that are observed in extant gnathostomes were present in ancestral vertebrates but have been partitioned differently across Hox clusters in gnathostome and cyclostome lineages after duplication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo J Parker
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Marianne E Bronner
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
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20
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Frank D, Sela-Donenfeld D. Hindbrain induction and patterning during early vertebrate development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:941-960. [PMID: 30519881 PMCID: PMC11105337 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2974-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The hindbrain is a key relay hub of the central nervous system (CNS), linking the bilaterally symmetric half-sides of lower and upper CNS centers via an extensive network of neural pathways. Dedicated neural assemblies within the hindbrain control many physiological processes, including respiration, blood pressure, motor coordination and different sensations. During early development, the hindbrain forms metameric segmented units known as rhombomeres along the antero-posterior (AP) axis of the nervous system. These compartmentalized units are highly conserved during vertebrate evolution and act as the template for adult brainstem structure and function. TALE and HOX homeodomain family transcription factors play a key role in the initial induction of the hindbrain and its specification into rhombomeric cell fate identities along the AP axis. Signaling pathways, such as canonical-Wnt, FGF and retinoic acid, play multiple roles to initially induce the hindbrain and regulate Hox gene-family expression to control rhombomeric identity. Additional transcription factors including Krox20, Kreisler and others act both upstream and downstream to Hox genes, modulating their expression and protein activity. In this review, we will examine the earliest embryonic signaling pathways that induce the hindbrain and subsequent rhombomeric segmentation via Hox and other gene expression. We will examine how these signaling pathways and transcription factors interact to activate downstream targets that organize the segmented AP pattern of the embryonic vertebrate hindbrain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale Frank
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Rappaport Family Institute for Research in the Medical Sciences, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 31096, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Dalit Sela-Donenfeld
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 76100, Rehovot, Israel.
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21
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Li J, Zhao Y, He L, Huang Y, Yang X, Yu L, Zhao Q, Dong X. Znfl1s are essential for patterning the anterior-posterior axis of zebrafish posterior hindbrain by acting as direct target genes of retinoic acid. Mech Dev 2018; 155:27-33. [PMID: 30472261 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
RA (retinoic acid) signaling is essential for the patterning the hindbrain of vertebrates. Although hundreds of potential RA targets genes are identified, the ones other than hox genes playing roles in patterning anterior-posterior axis of hindbrain by mediating RA signaling remains largely unknown. Previously, we reported that znfl1s play essential roles in the formation of posterior neuroectoderm in zebrafish embryos. Here, we revealed that znfl1s play a critical role in patterning the posterior axis of hindbrain by maintaining the homeostasis of RA signaling in zebrafish embryos. Knocking down znfl1s shortened the length of the posterior hindbrain in a similar way of reducing RA signaling in zebrafish embryos and the defective posterior hindbrain was effectively rescued by elevating RA signaling. By performing mutagenesis assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays on the promoter of znfl1s, we demonstrated that znfl1s are direct target genes of RA to mediate RA signaling through a functional DR1 RA response element. Taken together, our results showed that Znfl1s are essential for patterning the anterior-posterior axis development of posterior hindbrain by acting as direct target genes of RA signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyun Li
- Maternal and Child Health Medical Institute, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing, China
| | - Yingmin Zhao
- Department of Pediatric, Jingjiang People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Jingjiang 214500, China
| | - Luqingqing He
- Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210061, China
| | - Yun Huang
- Department of Pediatric, Jingjiang People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Jingjiang 214500, China
| | - Xiaojing Yang
- Department of Pediatric, Jingjiang People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Jingjiang 214500, China
| | - Lingling Yu
- Department of Pediatric, Jingjiang People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Jingjiang 214500, China
| | - Qingshun Zhao
- Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210061, China.
| | - Xiaohua Dong
- Department of Pediatric, Jingjiang People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Jingjiang 214500, China.
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22
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Dumas PY, Mansier O, Prouzet-Mauleon V, Koya J, Villacreces A, Brunet de la Grange P, Luque Paz D, Bidet A, Pasquet JM, Praloran V, Salin F, Kurokawa M, Mahon FX, Cardinaud B, Lippert E. MiR-10a and HOXB4 are overexpressed in atypical myeloproliferative neoplasms. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:1098. [PMID: 30419846 PMCID: PMC6233495 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4993-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Atypical Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (aMPN) share characteristics of MPN and Myelodysplastic Syndromes. Although abnormalities in cytokine signaling are common in MPN, the pathophysiology of atypical MPN still remains elusive. Since deregulation of microRNAs is involved in the biology of various cancers, we studied the miRNome of aMPN patients. Methods MiRNome and mutations in epigenetic regulator genes ASXL1, TET2, DNMT3A, EZH2 and IDH1/2 were explored in aMPN patients. Epigenetic regulation of miR-10a and HOXB4 expression was investigated by treating hematopoietic cell lines with 5-aza-2’deoxycytidine, valproic acid and retinoic acid. Functional effects of miR-10a overexpression on cell proliferation, differentiation and self-renewal were studied by transducing CD34+ cells with lentiviral vectors encoding the pri-miR-10a precursor. Results MiR-10a was identified as the most significantly up-regulated microRNA in aMPN. MiR-10a expression correlated with that of HOXB4, sitting in the same genomic locus. The transcription of these two genes was increased by DNA demethylation and histone acetylation, both necessary for optimal expression induction by retinoic acid. Moreover, miR-10a and HOXB4 overexpression seemed associated with DNMT3A mutation in hematological malignancies. However, overexpression of miR-10a had no effect on proliferation, differentiation or self-renewal of normal hematopoietic progenitors. Conclusions MiR-10a and HOXB4 are overexpressed in aMPN. This overexpression seems to be the result of abnormalities in epigenetic regulation mechanisms. Our data suggest that miR-10a could represent a simple marker of transcription at this genomic locus including HOXB4, widely recognized as involved in stem cell expansion. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-018-4993-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Yves Dumas
- CHU de Bordeaux, Hématologie Clinique et Thérapie Cellulaire, F-33000, Bordeaux, France.,INSERM U1035, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Olivier Mansier
- INSERM U1218, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,CHU de Bordeaux, Laboratoire d'Hématologie, F-33000, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Junji Koya
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | | | - Philippe Brunet de la Grange
- Etablissement Français du Sang - Aquitaine Limousin, Laboratoire R&D d'Ingénierie Cellulaire, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Audrey Bidet
- CHU de Bordeaux, Laboratoire d'Hématologie, F-33000, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Vincent Praloran
- INSERM U1035, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,CHU de Bordeaux, Laboratoire d'Hématologie, F-33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Franck Salin
- INRA, Plateforme Génome Transcriptome de Bordeaux, BIOGECO, UMR 1202, F-33610, Cestas, France
| | - Mineo Kurokawa
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - François-Xavier Mahon
- INSERM U1218, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
| | - Bruno Cardinaud
- INSERM U1218, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,Bordeaux Institut National Polytechnique, F-33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Eric Lippert
- INSERM U1035, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France. .,CHU de Bordeaux, Laboratoire d'Hématologie, F-33000, Bordeaux, France. .,CHRU de Brest, Service d'Hématologie Biologique et INSERM U1078, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France.
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23
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Role of HOX Genes in Stem Cell Differentiation and Cancer. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2018:3569493. [PMID: 30154863 PMCID: PMC6081605 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3569493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
HOX genes encode an evolutionarily conserved set of transcription factors that control how the phenotype of an organism becomes organized during development based on its genetic makeup. For example, in bilaterian-type animals, HOX genes are organized in gene clusters that encode anatomic segment identity, that is, whether the embryo will form with bilateral symmetry with a head (anterior), tail (posterior), back (dorsal), and belly (ventral). Although HOX genes are known to regulate stem cell (SC) differentiation and HOX genes are dysregulated in cancer, the mechanisms by which dysregulation of HOX genes in SCs causes cancer development is not fully understood. Therefore, the purpose of this manuscript was (i) to review the role of HOX genes in SC differentiation, particularly in embryonic, adult tissue-specific, and induced pluripotent SC, and (ii) to investigate how dysregulated HOX genes in SCs are responsible for the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We analyzed HOX gene expression in CRC and AML using information from The Cancer Genome Atlas study. Finally, we reviewed the literature on HOX genes and related therapeutics that might help us understand ways to develop SC-specific therapies that target aberrant HOX gene expression that contributes to cancer development.
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24
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Coupling the roles of Hox genes to regulatory networks patterning cranial neural crest. Dev Biol 2018; 444 Suppl 1:S67-S78. [PMID: 29571614 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2018.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The neural crest is a transient population of cells that forms within the developing central nervous system and migrates away to generate a wide range of derivatives throughout the body during vertebrate embryogenesis. These cells are of evolutionary and clinical interest, constituting a key defining trait in the evolution of vertebrates and alterations in their development are implicated in a high proportion of birth defects and craniofacial abnormalities. In the hindbrain and the adjacent cranial neural crest cells (cNCCs), nested domains of Hox gene expression provide a combinatorial'Hox-code' for specifying regional properties in the developing head. Hox genes have been shown to play important roles at multiple stages in cNCC development, including specification, migration, and differentiation. However, relatively little is known about the underlying gene-regulatory mechanisms involved, both upstream and downstream of Hox genes. Furthermore, it is still an open question as to how the genes of the neural crest GRN are linked to Hox-dependent pathways. In this review, we describe Hox gene expression, function and regulation in cNCCs with a view to integrating these genes within the emerging gene regulatory network for cNCC development. We highlight early roles for Hox1 genes in cNCC specification, proposing that this may be achieved, in part, by regulation of the balance between pluripotency and differentiation in precursor cells within the neuro-epithelium. We then describe what is known about the regulation of Hox gene expression in cNCCs and discuss this from the perspective of early vertebrate evolution.
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25
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Selland LG, Koch S, Laraque M, Waskiewicz AJ. Coordinate regulation of retinoic acid synthesis by pbx genes and fibroblast growth factor signaling by hoxb1b is required for hindbrain patterning and development. Mech Dev 2018; 150:28-41. [PMID: 29496480 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The vertebrate hindbrain is composed of a series of lineage-restricted segments termed rhombomeres. Segment-specific gene expression drives unique programs of neuronal differentiation. Two critical embryonic signaling pathways, Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) and Retinoic Acid (RA), regulate early embryonic rhombomere patterning. The earliest expressed hox genes, hoxb1b and hoxb1a in zebrafish, are logical candidates for establishing signaling networks that specify segmental identity. We sought to determine the mechanism by which hox genes regulate hindbrain patterning in zebrafish. We demonstrate that hoxb1a regulates r4-specific patterning, while hoxb1b regulates rhombomere segmentation and size. Hoxb1a and hoxb1b redundantly regulate vhnf1 expression. Loss of hoxb1b together with pbx4 reverts the hindbrain to a groundstate identity, demonstrating the importance of hox genes in patterning nearly the entire hindbrain, and a key requirement for Pbx in this process. Additionally, we provide evidence that while pbx genes regulate RA signaling, hoxb1b regulates hindbrain identity through complex regulation of FGF signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsay G Selland
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sophie Koch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Malcolm Laraque
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrew J Waskiewicz
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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26
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Parker HJ, Krumlauf R. Segmental arithmetic: summing up the Hox gene regulatory network for hindbrain development in chordates. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2017; 6. [PMID: 28771970 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Organization and development of the early vertebrate hindbrain are controlled by a cascade of regulatory interactions that govern the process of segmentation and patterning along the anterior-posterior axis via Hox genes. These interactions can be assembled into a gene regulatory network that provides a framework to interpret experimental data, generate hypotheses, and identify gaps in our understanding of the progressive process of hindbrain segmentation. The network can be broadly separated into a series of interconnected programs that govern early signaling, segmental subdivision, secondary signaling, segmentation, and ultimately specification of segmental identity. Hox genes play crucial roles in multiple programs within this network. Furthermore, the network reveals properties and principles that are likely to be general to other complex developmental systems. Data from vertebrate and invertebrate chordate models are shedding light on the origin and diversification of the network. Comprehensive cis-regulatory analyses of vertebrate Hox gene regulation have enabled powerful cross-species gene regulatory comparisons. Such an approach in the sea lamprey has revealed that the network mediating segmental Hox expression was present in ancestral vertebrates and has been maintained across diverse vertebrate lineages. Invertebrate chordates lack hindbrain segmentation but exhibit conservation of some aspects of the network, such as a role for retinoic acid in establishing nested Hox expression domains. These comparisons lead to a model in which early vertebrates underwent an elaboration of the network between anterior-posterior patterning and Hox gene expression, leading to the gene-regulatory programs for segmental subdivision and rhombomeric segmentation. WIREs Dev Biol 2017, 6:e286. doi: 10.1002/wdev.286 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo J Parker
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
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27
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Matsuoka AJ, Morrissey ZD, Zhang C, Homma K, Belmadani A, Miller CA, Chadly DM, Kobayashi S, Edelbrock AN, Tanaka‐Matakatsu M, Whitlon DS, Lyass L, McGuire TL, Stupp SI, Kessler JA. Directed Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells Toward Placode-Derived Spiral Ganglion-Like Sensory Neurons. Stem Cells Transl Med 2017; 6:923-936. [PMID: 28186679 PMCID: PMC5442760 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.16-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2016] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to generate spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) from stem cells is a necessary prerequisite for development of cell-replacement therapies for sensorineural hearing loss. We present a protocol that directs human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) toward a purified population of otic neuronal progenitors (ONPs) and SGN-like cells. Between 82% and 95% of these cells express SGN molecular markers, they preferentially extend neurites to the cochlear nucleus rather than nonauditory nuclei, and they generate action potentials. The protocol follows an in vitro stepwise recapitulation of developmental events inherent to normal differentiation of hESCs into SGNs, resulting in efficient sequential generation of nonneuronal ectoderm, preplacodal ectoderm, early prosensory ONPs, late ONPs, and cells with cellular and molecular characteristics of human SGNs. We thus describe the sequential signaling pathways that generate the early and later lineage species in the human SGN lineage, thereby better describing key developmental processes. The results indicate that our protocol generates cells that closely replicate the phenotypic characteristics of human SGNs, advancing the process of guiding hESCs to states serving inner-ear cell-replacement therapies and possible next-generation hybrid auditory prostheses. © Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:923-936.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro J. Matsuoka
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck SurgeryChicagoILUSA
- Department of Communication Sciences and DisordersChicagoILUSA
- Knowles Hearing CenterChicagoILUSA
| | | | - Chaoying Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck SurgeryChicagoILUSA
| | - Kazuaki Homma
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck SurgeryChicagoILUSA
- Knowles Hearing CenterChicagoILUSA
| | - Abdelhak Belmadani
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Biological ChemistryChicagoILUSA
| | | | - Duncan M. Chadly
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck SurgeryChicagoILUSA
| | - Shun Kobayashi
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck SurgeryChicagoILUSA
| | | | | | - Donna S. Whitlon
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck SurgeryChicagoILUSA
- Knowles Hearing CenterChicagoILUSA
| | - Ljuba Lyass
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChicagoILUSA
| | | | - Samuel I. Stupp
- Department of MedicineChicagoILUSA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChicagoILUSA
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnologyChicagoILUSA
- Department of ChemistryNorthwestern University
- Department of Materials Science & EngineeringNorthwestern University
| | - John A. Kessler
- Department of NeurologyFeinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern UniversityChicagoILUSA
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McGuigan AP, Javaherian S. Tissue Patterning: Translating Design Principles from In Vivo to In Vitro. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2016; 18:1-24. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-083115-032943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison P. McGuigan
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry and
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E5, Canada;
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Parker HJ, Bronner ME, Krumlauf R. The vertebrate Hox gene regulatory network for hindbrain segmentation: Evolution and diversification: Coupling of a Hox gene regulatory network to hindbrain segmentation is an ancient trait originating at the base of vertebrates. Bioessays 2016; 38:526-38. [PMID: 27027928 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201600010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hindbrain development is orchestrated by a vertebrate gene regulatory network that generates segmental patterning along the anterior-posterior axis via Hox genes. Here, we review analyses of vertebrate and invertebrate chordate models that inform upon the evolutionary origin and diversification of this network. Evidence from the sea lamprey reveals that the hindbrain regulatory network generates rhombomeric compartments with segmental Hox expression and an underlying Hox code. We infer that this basal feature was present in ancestral vertebrates and, as an evolutionarily constrained developmental state, is fundamentally important for patterning of the vertebrate hindbrain across diverse lineages. Despite the common ground plan, vertebrates exhibit neuroanatomical diversity in lineage-specific patterns, with different vertebrates revealing variations of Hox expression in the hindbrain that could underlie this diversification. Invertebrate chordates lack hindbrain segmentation but exhibit some conserved aspects of this network, with retinoic acid signaling playing a role in establishing nested domains of Hox expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo J Parker
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Marianne E Bronner
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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30
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Chang J, Skromne I, Ho RK. CDX4 and retinoic acid interact to position the hindbrain-spinal cord transition. Dev Biol 2016; 410:178-189. [PMID: 26773000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2015.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The sub-division of the posterior-most territory of the neural plate results in the formation of two distinct neural structures, the hindbrain and the spinal cord. Although many of the molecular signals regulating the development of these individual structures have been elucidated, the mechanisms involved in delineating the boundary between the hindbrain and spinal cord remain elusive. Two molecules, retinoic acid (RA) and the Cdx4 transcription factor have been previously implicated as important regulators of hindbrain and spinal cord development, respectively. Here, we provide evidence that suggests multiple regulatory interactions occur between RA signaling and the Cdx4 transcription factor to establish the anterior-posterior (AP) position of the transition between the hindbrain and spinal cord. Using chemical inhibitors to alter RA concentrations and morpholinos to knock-down Cdx4 function in zebrafish, we show that Cdx4 acts to prevent RA degradation in the presumptive spinal cord domain by suppressing expression of the RA degradation enzyme, Cyp26a1. In the hindbrain, RA signaling modulates its own concentration by activating the expression of cyp26a1 and inhibiting the expansion of cdx4. Therefore, interactions between Cyp26a1 and Cdx4 modulate RA levels along the AP axis to segregate the posterior neural plate into the hindbrain and spinal cord territories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie Chang
- Committee on Developmental Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Isaac Skromne
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Robert K Ho
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, University of Chicago, 1027 E. 57th St, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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31
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32
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Meinhardt H. Models for patterning primary embryonic body axes: The role of space and time. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 42:103-17. [PMID: 26126935 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Models for the generation and interpretation of spatial patterns are discussed. Crucial for these processes is an intimate link between self-enhancing and antagonistic reactions. For spatial patterning, long-ranging antagonistic reactions are required that restrict the self-enhancing reactions to generate organizing regions. Self-enhancement is also required for a permanent switch-like activation of genes. This self-enhancement is antagonized by the mutual repression of genes, making sure that in a particular cell only one gene of a set of possible genes become activated - a long range inhibition in the 'gene space'. The understanding how the main body axes are initiated becomes more straightforward if the evolutionary ancestral head/brain pattern and the trunk pattern is considered separately. To activate a specific gene at particular concentration of morphogenetic gradient, observations are compatible with a systematic and time-requiring 'promotion' from one gene to the next until the local concentration is insufficient to accomplish a further promotion. The achieved determination is stable against a fading of the morphogen, as required to allow substantial growth. Minor modifications lead to a purely time-dependent activation of genes; both mechanisms are involved to pattern the anteroposterior axis. A mutual activation of cell states that locally exclude each other accounts for many features of the segmental patterning of the trunk. A possible scenario for the evolutionary invention of segmentation is discussed that is based on a reemployment of interactions involved in asexual reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Meinhardt
- Max-Planck-Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie, Spemannstr. 35, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany.
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33
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De Kumar B, Parrish ME, Slaughter BD, Unruh JR, Gogol M, Seidel C, Paulson A, Li H, Gaudenz K, Peak A, McDowell W, Fleharty B, Ahn Y, Lin C, Smith E, Shilatifard A, Krumlauf R. Analysis of dynamic changes in retinoid-induced transcription and epigenetic profiles of murine Hox clusters in ES cells. Genome Res 2015; 25:1229-43. [PMID: 26025802 PMCID: PMC4510006 DOI: 10.1101/gr.184978.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The clustered Hox genes, which are highly conserved across metazoans, encode homeodomain-containing transcription factors that provide a blueprint for segmental identity along the body axis. Recent studies have underscored that in addition to encoding Hox genes, the homeotic clusters contain key noncoding RNA genes that play a central role in development. In this study, we have taken advantage of genome-wide approaches to provide a detailed analysis of retinoic acid (RA)-induced transcriptional and epigenetic changes within the homeotic clusters of mouse embryonic stem cells. Although there is a general colinear response, our analyses suggest a lack of strict colinearity for several genes in the HoxA and HoxB clusters. We have identified transcribed novel noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and their cis-regulatory elements that function in response to RA and demonstrated that the expression of these ncRNAs from both strands represent some of the most rapidly induced transcripts in ES cells. Finally, we have provided dynamic analyses of chromatin modifications for the coding and noncoding genes expressed upon activation and suggest that active transcription can occur in the presence of chromatin modifications and machineries associated with repressed transcription state over the clusters. Overall, our data provide a resource for a better understanding of the dynamic nature of the coding and noncoding transcripts and their associated chromatin marks in the regulation of homeotic gene transcription during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bony De Kumar
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Mark E Parrish
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Brian D Slaughter
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Jay R Unruh
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Madelaine Gogol
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Christopher Seidel
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Ariel Paulson
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Hua Li
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Karin Gaudenz
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Allison Peak
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - William McDowell
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Brian Fleharty
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Youngwook Ahn
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Chengqi Lin
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Edwin Smith
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Ali Shilatifard
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA
| | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri 64110, USA; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
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Seifert A, Werheid DF, Knapp SM, Tobiasch E. Role of Hox genes in stem cell differentiation. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:583-595. [PMID: 25914765 PMCID: PMC4404393 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i3.583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hox genes are an evolutionary highly conserved gene family. They determine the anterior-posterior body axis in bilateral organisms and influence the developmental fate of cells. Embryonic stem cells are usually devoid of any Hox gene expression, but these transcription factors are activated in varying spatial and temporal patterns defining the development of various body regions. In the adult body, Hox genes are among others responsible for driving the differentiation of tissue stem cells towards their respective lineages in order to repair and maintain the correct function of tissues and organs. Due to their involvement in the embryonic and adult body, they have been suggested to be useable for improving stem cell differentiations in vitro and in vivo. In many studies Hox genes have been found as driving factors in stem cell differentiation towards adipogenesis, in lineages involved in bone and joint formation, mainly chondrogenesis and osteogenesis, in cardiovascular lineages including endothelial and smooth muscle cell differentiations, and in neurogenesis. As life expectancy is rising, the demand for tissue reconstruction continues to increase. Stem cells have become an increasingly popular choice for creating therapies in regenerative medicine due to their self-renewal and differentiation potential. Especially mesenchymal stem cells are used more and more frequently due to their easy handling and accessibility, combined with a low tumorgenicity and little ethical concerns. This review therefore intends to summarize to date known correlations between natural Hox gene expression patterns in body tissues and during the differentiation of various stem cells towards their respective lineages with a major focus on mesenchymal stem cell differentiations. This overview shall help to understand the complex interactions of Hox genes and differentiation processes all over the body as well as in vitro for further improvement of stem cell treatments in future regenerative medicine approaches.
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MOZ and BMI1 play opposing roles during Hox gene activation in ES cells and in body segment identity specification in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:5437-42. [PMID: 25922517 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1422872112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hox genes underlie the specification of body segment identity in the anterior-posterior axis. They are activated during gastrulation and undergo a dynamic shift from a transcriptionally repressed to an active chromatin state in a sequence that reflects their chromosomal location. Nevertheless, the precise role of chromatin modifying complexes during the initial activation phase remains unclear. In the current study, we examined the role of chromatin regulators during Hox gene activation. Using embryonic stem cell lines lacking the transcriptional activator MOZ and the polycomb-family repressor BMI1, we showed that MOZ and BMI1, respectively, promoted and repressed Hox genes during the shift from the transcriptionally repressed to the active state. Strikingly however, MOZ but not BMI1 was required to regulate Hox mRNA levels after the initial activation phase. To determine the interaction of MOZ and BMI1 in vivo, we interrogated their role in regulating Hox genes and body segment identity using Moz;Bmi1 double deficient mice. We found that the homeotic transformations and shifts in Hox gene expression boundaries observed in single Moz and Bmi1 mutant mice were rescued to a wild type identity in Moz;Bmi1 double knockout animals. Together, our findings establish that MOZ and BMI1 play opposing roles during the onset of Hox gene expression in the ES cell model and during body segment identity specification in vivo. We propose that chromatin-modifying complexes have a previously unappreciated role during the initiation phase of Hox gene expression, which is critical for the correct specification of body segment identity.
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36
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Deterministic HOX patterning in human pluripotent stem cell-derived neuroectoderm. Stem Cell Reports 2015; 4:632-44. [PMID: 25843047 PMCID: PMC4400649 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2015.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Colinear HOX expression during hindbrain and spinal cord development diversifies and assigns regional neural phenotypes to discrete rhombomeric and vertebral domains. Despite the precision of HOX patterning in vivo, in vitro approaches for differentiating human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to posterior neural fates coarsely pattern HOX expression thereby generating cultures broadly specified to hindbrain or spinal cord regions. Here, we demonstrate that successive activation of fibroblast growth factor, Wnt/β-catenin, and growth differentiation factor signaling during hPSC differentiation generates stable, homogenous SOX2+/Brachyury+ neuromesoderm that exhibits progressive, full colinear HOX activation over 7 days. Switching to retinoic acid treatment at any point during this process halts colinear HOX activation and transitions the neuromesoderm into SOX2+/PAX6+ neuroectoderm with predictable, discrete HOX gene/protein profiles that can be further differentiated into region-specific cells, e.g., motor neurons. This fully defined approach significantly expands capabilities to derive regional neural phenotypes from diverse hindbrain and spinal cord domains. Deterministic HOX expression in hPSC-derived neuromesoderm progenitors (NMPs) Wnt/β-catenin, FGF, and GDF signaling regulate HOX activation in NMPs Retinoic acid (RA) transitions NMPs to neuroectoderm and halts HOX activation Neural cells can be patterned to any rostrocaudal hindbrain or spinal cord domain
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37
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Willaredt MA, Schlüter T, Nothwang HG. The gene regulatory networks underlying formation of the auditory hindbrain. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:519-535. [PMID: 25332098 PMCID: PMC11113740 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1759-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Development and evolution of auditory hindbrain nuclei are two major unsolved issues in hearing research. Recent characterization of transgenic mice identified the rhombomeric origins of mammalian auditory nuclei and unraveled genes involved in their formation. Here, we provide an overview on these data by assembling them into rhombomere-specific gene regulatory networks (GRNs), as they underlie developmental and evolutionary processes. To explore evolutionary mechanisms, we compare the GRNs operating in the mammalian auditory hindbrain with data available from the inner ear and other vertebrate groups. Finally, we propose that the availability of genomic sequences from all major vertebrate taxa and novel genetic techniques for non-model organisms provide an unprecedented opportunity to investigate development and evolution of the auditory hindbrain by comparative molecular approaches. The dissection of the molecular mechanisms leading to auditory structures will also provide an important framework for auditory processing disorders, a clinical problem difficult to tackle so far. These data will, therefore, foster basic and clinical hearing research alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc A Willaredt
- Neurogenetics group, Center of Excellence Hearing4All, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Tina Schlüter
- Neurogenetics group, Center of Excellence Hearing4All, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Hans Gerd Nothwang
- Neurogenetics group, Center of Excellence Hearing4All, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany.
- Research Center for Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany.
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38
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Cunningham TJ, Duester G. Mechanisms of retinoic acid signalling and its roles in organ and limb development. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2015; 16:110-23. [PMID: 25560970 PMCID: PMC4636111 DOI: 10.1038/nrm3932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 387] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) signalling has a central role during vertebrate development. RA synthesized in specific locations regulates transcription by interacting with nuclear RA receptors (RARs) bound to RA response elements (RAREs) near target genes. RA was first implicated in signalling on the basis of its teratogenic effects on limb development. Genetic studies later revealed that endogenous RA promotes forelimb initiation by repressing fibroblast growth factor 8 (Fgf8). Insights into RA function in the limb serve as a paradigm for understanding how RA regulates other developmental processes. In vivo studies have identified RAREs that control repression of Fgf8 during body axis extension or activation of homeobox (Hox) genes and other key regulators during neuronal differentiation and organogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Cunningham
- Development, Aging, and Regeneration Program, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Gregg Duester
- Development, Aging, and Regeneration Program, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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39
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Lee K, Skromne I. Retinoic acid regulates size, pattern and alignment of tissues at the head-trunk transition. Development 2015; 141:4375-84. [PMID: 25371368 DOI: 10.1242/dev.109603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
At the head-trunk transition, hindbrain and spinal cord alignment to occipital and vertebral bones is crucial for coherent neural and skeletal system organization. Changes in neural or mesodermal tissue configuration arising from defects in the specification, patterning or relative axial placement of territories can severely compromise their integration and function. Here, we show that coordination of neural and mesodermal tissue at the zebrafish head-trunk transition crucially depends on two novel activities of the signaling factor retinoic acid (RA): one specifying the size and the other specifying the axial position relative to mesodermal structures of the hindbrain territory. These activities are each independent but coordinated with the well-established function of RA in hindbrain patterning. Using neural and mesodermal landmarks we demonstrate that the functions of RA in aligning neural and mesodermal tissues temporally precede the specification of hindbrain and spinal cord territories and the activation of hox transcription. Using cell transplantation assays we show that RA activity in the neuroepithelium regulates hindbrain patterning directly and territory size specification indirectly. This indirect function is partially dependent on Wnts but independent of FGFs. Importantly, RA specifies and patterns the hindbrain territory by antagonizing the activity of the spinal cord specification gene cdx4; loss of Cdx4 rescues the defects associated with the loss of RA, including the reduction in hindbrain size and the loss of posterior rhombomeres. We propose that at the head-trunk transition, RA coordinates specification, patterning and alignment of neural and mesodermal tissues that are essential for the organization and function of the neural and skeletal systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keun Lee
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Isaac Skromne
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
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40
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Hutlet B, Theys N, Coste C, Ahn MT, Doshishti-Agolli K, Lizen B, Gofflot F. Systematic expression analysis of Hox genes at adulthood reveals novel patterns in the central nervous system. Brain Struct Funct 2014; 221:1223-43. [PMID: 25527350 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-014-0965-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Hox proteins are key regulators of animal development, providing positional identity and patterning information to cells along the rostrocaudal axis of the embryo. Although their embryonic expression and function are well characterized, their presence and biological importance in adulthood remains poorly investigated. We provide here the first detailed quantitative and neuroanatomical characterization of the expression of the 39 Hox genes in the adult mouse brain. Using RT-qPCR we determined the expression of 24 Hox genes mainly in the brainstem of the adult brain, with low expression of a few genes in the cerebellum and the forebrain. Using in situ hybridization (ISH) we have demonstrated that expression of Hox genes is maintained in territories derived from the early segmental Hox expression domains in the hindbrain. Indeed, we show that expression of genes belonging to paralogy groups PG2-8 is maintained in the hindbrain derivatives at adulthood. The spatial colinearity, which characterizes the early embryonic expression of Hox genes, is still observed in sequential antero-posterior boundaries of expression. Moreover, the main mossy and climbing fibres precerebellar nuclei express PG2-8 Hox genes according to their migration origins. Second, ISH confirms the presence of Hox gene transcripts in territories where they are not detected during development, suggesting neo-expression in these territories in adulthood. Within the forebrain, we have mapped Hoxb1, Hoxb3, Hoxb4, Hoxd3 and Hoxa5 expression in restricted areas of the sensory cerebral cortices as well as in specific thalamic relay nuclei. Our data thus suggest a requirement of Hox genes beyond their role of patterning genes, providing a new dimension to their functional relevance in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertrand Hutlet
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, 1348, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Theys
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, 1348, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Cécile Coste
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, 1348, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium.,Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, GIGA-Neurosciences Research Center, University of Liège, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marie-Thérèse Ahn
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, 1348, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
| | | | - Benoît Lizen
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, 1348, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Françoise Gofflot
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, 1348, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium.
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41
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Vertical signalling involves transmission of Hox information from gastrula mesoderm to neurectoderm. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115208. [PMID: 25514127 PMCID: PMC4267835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Development and patterning of neural tissue in the vertebrate embryo involves a set of molecules and processes whose relationships are not fully understood. Classical embryology revealed a remarkable phenomenon known as vertical signalling, a gastrulation stage mechanism that copies anterior-posterior positional information from mesoderm to prospective neural tissue. Vertical signalling mediates unambiguous copying of complex information from one tissue layer to another. In this study, we report an investigation of this process in recombinates of mesoderm and ectoderm from gastrulae of Xenopus laevis. Our results show that copying of positional information involves non cell autonomous autoregulation of particular Hox genes whose expression is copied from mesoderm to neurectoderm in the gastrula. Furthermore, this information sharing mechanism involves unconventional translocation of the homeoproteins themselves. This conserved primitive mechanism has been known for three decades but has only recently been put into any developmental context. It provides a simple, robust way to pattern the neurectoderm using the Hox pattern already present in the mesoderm during gastrulation. We suggest that this mechanism was selected during evolution to enable unambiguous copying of rather complex information from cell to cell and that it is a key part of the original ancestral mechanism mediating axial patterning by the highly conserved Hox genes.
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42
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A Hox regulatory network of hindbrain segmentation is conserved to the base of vertebrates. Nature 2014; 514:490-3. [PMID: 25219855 PMCID: PMC4209185 DOI: 10.1038/nature13723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A defining feature governing head patterning of jawed vertebrates is a highly conserved gene regulatory network that integrates hindbrain segmentation with segmentally restricted domains of Hox gene expression. Although non-vertebrate chordates display nested domains of axial Hox expression, they lack hindbrain segmentation. The sea lamprey, a jawless fish, can provide unique insights into vertebrate origins owing to its phylogenetic position at the base of the vertebrate tree. It has been suggested that lamprey may represent an intermediate state where nested Hox expression has not been coupled to the process of hindbrain segmentation. However, little is known about the regulatory network underlying Hox expression in lamprey or its relationship to hindbrain segmentation. Here, using a novel tool that allows cross-species comparisons of regulatory elements between jawed and jawless vertebrates, we report deep conservation of both upstream regulators and segmental activity of enhancer elements across these distant species. Regulatory regions from diverse gnathostomes drive segmental reporter expression in the lamprey hindbrain and require the same transcriptional inputs (for example, Kreisler (also known as Mafba), Krox20 (also known as Egr2a)) in both lamprey and zebrafish. We find that lamprey hox genes display dynamic segmentally restricted domains of expression; we also isolated a conserved exonic hox2 enhancer from lamprey that drives segmental expression in rhombomeres 2 and 4. Our results show that coupling of Hox gene expression to segmentation of the hindbrain is an ancient trait with origin at the base of vertebrates that probably led to the formation of rhombomeric compartments with an underlying Hox code.
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Influence of Teratogenic Factors on Mouse 39hoxGene Expression. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2014; 73:2416-21. [DOI: 10.1271/bbb.90378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Prin F, Serpente P, Itasaki N, Gould AP. Hox proteins drive cell segregation and non-autonomous apical remodelling during hindbrain segmentation. Development 2014; 141:1492-502. [PMID: 24574009 PMCID: PMC3957373 DOI: 10.1242/dev.098954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Hox genes encode a conserved family of homeodomain transcription factors regulating development along the major body axis. During embryogenesis, Hox proteins are expressed in segment-specific patterns and control numerous different segment-specific cell fates. It has been unclear, however, whether Hox proteins drive the epithelial cell segregation mechanism that is thought to initiate the segmentation process. Here, we investigate the role of vertebrate Hox proteins during the partitioning of the developing hindbrain into lineage-restricted units called rhombomeres. Loss-of-function mutants and ectopic expression assays reveal that Hoxb4 and its paralogue Hoxd4 are necessary and sufficient for cell segregation, and for the most caudal rhombomere boundary (r6/r7). Hox4 proteins regulate Eph/ephrins and other cell-surface proteins, and can function in a non-cell-autonomous manner to induce apical cell enlargement on both sides of their expression border. Similarly, other Hox proteins expressed at more rostral rhombomere interfaces can also regulate Eph/ephrins, induce apical remodelling and drive cell segregation in ectopic expression assays. However, Krox20, a key segmentation factor expressed in odd rhombomeres (r3 and r5), can largely override Hox proteins at the level of regulation of a cell surface target, Epha4. This study suggests that most, if not all, Hox proteins share a common potential to induce cell segregation but in some contexts this is masked or modulated by other transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Prin
- Division of Physiology and Metabolism, Medical Research Council, National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London, NW7 1AA, UK
| | - Patricia Serpente
- Division of Physiology and Metabolism, Medical Research Council, National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London, NW7 1AA, UK
| | - Nobue Itasaki
- Division of Developmental Neurobiology, Medical Research Council, National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London, NW7 1AA, UK
| | - Alex P. Gould
- Division of Physiology and Metabolism, Medical Research Council, National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London, NW7 1AA, UK
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Ahn Y, Mullan HE, Krumlauf R. Long-range regulation by shared retinoic acid response elements modulates dynamic expression of posterior Hoxb genes in CNS development. Dev Biol 2014; 388:134-44. [PMID: 24525295 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Revised: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/31/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) signaling plays an important role in determining the anterior boundary of Hox gene expression in the neural tube during embryogenesis. In particular, RA signaling is implicated in a rostral expansion of the neural expression domain of 5׳ Hoxb genes (Hoxb9-Hoxb5) in mice. However, underlying mechanisms for this gene regulation have remained elusive due to the lack of RA responsive element (RARE) in the 5׳ half of the HoxB cluster. To identify cis-regulatory elements required for the rostral expansion, we developed a recombineering technology to serially label multiple genes with different reporters in a single bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) vector containing the mouse HoxB cluster. This allowed us to simultaneously monitor the expression of multiple genes. In contrast to plasmid-based reporters, transgenic BAC reporters faithfully recapitulated endogenous gene expression patterns of the Hoxb genes including the rostral expansion. Combined inactivation of two RAREs, DE-RARE and ENE-RARE, in the BAC completely abolished the rostral expansion of the 5׳ Hoxb genes. Knock-out of endogenous DE-RARE lead to significantly reduced expression of multiple Hoxb genes and attenuated Hox gene response to exogenous RA treatment in utero. Regulatory potential of DE-RARE was further demonstrated by its ability to anteriorize 5׳ Hoxa gene expression in the neural tube when inserted into a HoxA BAC reporter. Our data demonstrate that multiple RAREs cooperate to remotely regulate 5׳ Hoxb genes during CNS development, providing a new insight into the mechanisms for gene regulation within the Hox clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngwook Ahn
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Hillary E Mullan
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Robb Krumlauf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
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Schulte D, Frank D. TALE transcription factors during early development of the vertebrate brain and eye. Dev Dyn 2013; 243:99-116. [DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Revised: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea Schulte
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute); University Hospital Frankfurt, J.W. Goethe University; Frankfurt Germany
| | - Dale Frank
- Department of Biochemistry; The Rappaport Family Institute for Research in the Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology; Haifa Israel
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Drummond DL, Cheng CS, Selland LG, Hocking JC, Prichard LB, Waskiewicz AJ. The role of Zic transcription factors in regulating hindbrain retinoic acid signaling. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2013; 13:31. [PMID: 23937294 PMCID: PMC3751700 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-13-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background The reiterated architecture of cranial motor neurons aligns with the segmented structure of the embryonic vertebrate hindbrain. Anterior-posterior identity of cranial motor neurons depends, in part, on retinoic acid signaling levels. The early vertebrate embryo maintains a balance between retinoic acid synthetic and degradative zones on the basis of reciprocal expression domains of the retinoic acid synthesis gene aldhehyde dehydrogenase 1a2 (aldh1a2) posteriorly and the oxidative gene cytochrome p450 type 26a1 (cyp26a1) in the forebrain, midbrain, and anterior hindbrain. Results This manuscript investigates the role of zinc finger of the cerebellum (zic) transcription factors in regulating levels of retinoic acid and differentiation of cranial motor neurons. Depletion of zebrafish Zic2a and Zic2b results in a strong downregulation of aldh1a2 expression and a concomitant reduction in activity of a retinoid-dependent transgene. The vagal motor neuron phenotype caused by loss of Zic2a/2b mimics a depletion of Aldh1a2 and is rescued by exogenously supplied retinoic acid. Conclusion Zic transcription factors function in patterning hindbrain motor neurons through their regulation of embryonic retinoic acid signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danna L Drummond
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, CW405, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
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Morishita Y, Hironaka KI. Systems approach to developmental biology--designs for robust patterning. IET Syst Biol 2013; 7:38-49. [PMID: 23847812 DOI: 10.1049/iet-syb.2012.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Patterning is an important step in animal development that generates spatially non-uniform gene expression patterns or spatially heterogeneous cellular responses. Patterning is realised by the generation and reading of positional information provided by spatial gradients of morphogens, diffusive chemicals in the extracellular environment. To achieve normal development, accurate patterning that is robust against noise is necessary. Here the authors describe how morphogen gradient formation and gradient interpretation processes are designed to achieve highly reproducible patterning. Furthermore, recent advancements in measurement and imaging techniques have enabled researchers to obtain quantitative dynamic and multi-physical data, not only for chemical events, but also for the geometrical and mechanical properties of cells in vivo. The authors briefly review some recent studies on the effects of such non-chemical events on patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Morishita
- Laboratory for Developmental Morphogeometry, Center for Developmental Biology, RIKEN, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.
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Di Meglio T, Kratochwil CF, Vilain N, Loche A, Vitobello A, Yonehara K, Hrycaj SM, Roska B, Peters AHFM, Eichmann A, Wellik D, Ducret S, Rijli FM. Ezh2 orchestrates topographic migration and connectivity of mouse precerebellar neurons. Science 2013; 339:204-7. [PMID: 23307742 DOI: 10.1126/science.1229326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the role of histone methyltransferase Ezh2 in tangential migration of mouse precerebellar pontine nuclei, the main relay between neocortex and cerebellum. By counteracting the sonic hedgehog pathway, Ezh2 represses Netrin1 in dorsal hindbrain, which allows normal pontine neuron migration. In Ezh2 mutants, ectopic Netrin1 derepression results in abnormal migration and supernumerary nuclei integrating in brain circuitry. Moreover, intrinsic topographic organization of pontine nuclei according to rostrocaudal progenitor origin is maintained throughout migration and correlates with patterned cortical input. Ezh2 maintains spatially restricted Hox expression, which, in turn, regulates differential expression of the repulsive receptor Unc5b in migrating neurons; together, they generate subsets with distinct responsiveness to environmental Netrin1. Thus, Ezh2-dependent epigenetic regulation of intrinsic and extrinsic transcriptional programs controls topographic neuronal guidance and connectivity in the cortico-ponto-cerebellar pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Di Meglio
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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Pascual-Anaya J, Adachi N, Alvarez S, Kuratani S, D'Aniello S, Garcia-Fernàndez J. Broken colinearity of the amphioxus Hox cluster. EvoDevo 2012. [PMID: 23198682 PMCID: PMC3534614 DOI: 10.1186/2041-9139-3-28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In most eumetazoans studied so far, Hox genes determine the identity of structures along the main body axis. They are usually linked in genomic clusters and, in the case of the vertebrate embryo, are expressed with spatial and temporal colinearity. Outside vertebrates, temporal colinearity has been reported in the cephalochordate amphioxus (the least derived living relative of the chordate ancestor) but only for anterior and central genes, namely Hox1 to Hox4 and Hox6. However, most of the Hox gene expression patterns in amphioxus have not been reported. To gain global insights into the evolution of Hox clusters in chordates, we investigated a more extended expression profile of amphioxus Hox genes. Results Here we report an extended expression profile of the European amphioxus Branchiostoma lanceolatum Hox genes and describe that all Hox genes, except Hox13, are expressed during development. Interestingly, we report the breaking of both spatial and temporal colinearity for at least Hox6 and Hox14, which thus have escaped from the classical Hox code concept. We show a previously unidentified Hox6 expression pattern and a faint expression for posterior Hox genes in structures such as the posterior mesoderm, notochord, and hindgut. Unexpectedly, we found that amphioxus Hox14 had the most divergent expression pattern. This gene is expressed in the anterior cerebral vesicle and pharyngeal endoderm. Amphioxus Hox14 expression represents the first report of Hox gene expression in the most anterior part of the central nervous system. Nevertheless, despite these divergent expression patterns, amphioxus Hox6 and Hox14 seem to be still regulated by retinoic acid. Conclusions Escape from colinearity by Hox genes is not unusual in either vertebrates or amphioxus and we suggest that those genes escaping from it are probably associated with the patterning of lineage-specific morphological traits, requiring the loss of those developmental constraints that kept them colinear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pascual-Anaya
- Departament de Genètica and Institut de Biomedicina (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av, Diagonal, 643, Barcelona, 08028, Spain.
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