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Walendzik K, Kopcewicz M, Wiśniewska J, Opyd P, Machcińska-Zielińska S, Gawrońska-Kozak B. Dermal white adipose tissue development and metabolism: The role of transcription factor Foxn1. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23171. [PMID: 37682531 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300873rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Intradermal adipocytes form dermal white adipose tissue (dWAT), a unique fat depot localized in the lower layer of the dermis. However, recognition of molecular factors regulating dWAT development, homeostasis, and bioactivity is limited. Using Foxn1-/- and Foxn1+/+ mice, we demonstrated that epidermally expressed Foxn1 regulates dWAT development and defines the adipogenic capacity of dermal fibroblasts. In intact and post-wounded skin, Foxn1 contributes to the initial stimulation of dWAT adipogenesis and participates in the modulation of lipid metabolism processes. Furthermore, Foxn1 activity strengthens adipogenic processes through Bmp2 and Igf2 signaling and regulates lipid metabolism in differentiated dermal fibroblasts. The results reveal the contribution of Foxn1 to dWAT metabolism, thus identifying possible targets for modulation and regulation of dWAT in physiological and pathological processes in the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walendzik
- Biological Function of Food, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Kopcewicz
- Biological Function of Food, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Wiśniewska
- Biological Function of Food, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Paulina Opyd
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Sylwia Machcińska-Zielińska
- Biological Function of Food, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Barbara Gawrońska-Kozak
- Biological Function of Food, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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2
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Kadouri N, Givony T, Nevo S, Hey J, Ben Dor S, Damari G, Dassa B, Dobes J, Weichenhan D, Bähr M, Paulsen M, Haffner-Krausz R, Mall MA, Plass C, Goldfarb Y, Abramson J. Transcriptional regulation of the thymus master regulator Foxn1. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabn8144. [PMID: 36026441 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abn8144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
FOXN1 is a transcription factor critical for the development of both thymic epithelial cell (TEC) and hair follicle cell (HFC) compartments. However, mechanisms controlling its expression remain poorly understood. To address this question, we performed thorough analyses of the evolutionary conservation and chromatin status of the Foxn1 locus in different tissues and states and identified several putative cis-regulatory regions unique to TECs versus HFCs. Furthermore, experiments using genetically modified mice with specific deletions in the Foxn1 locus and additional bioinformatic analyses helped us identify key regions and transcription factors involved in either positive or negative regulation of Foxn1 in both TECs and HFCs. Specifically, we identified SIX1 and FOXN1 itself as key factors inducing Foxn1 expression in embryonic and neonatal TECs. Together, our data provide important mechanistic insights into the transcriptional regulation of the Foxn1 gene in TEC versus HFC and highlight the role of FOXN1 in its autoregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam Kadouri
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Tal Givony
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Shir Nevo
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Joschka Hey
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shifra Ben Dor
- Bioinformatics Unit, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Golda Damari
- Department of Veterinary Resources, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bareket Dassa
- Bioinformatics Unit, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jan Dobes
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Dieter Weichenhan
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marion Bähr
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michelle Paulsen
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Translational Pulmonology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Marcus A Mall
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Translational Pulmonology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Plass
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yael Goldfarb
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jakub Abramson
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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3
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Nagakubo D, Hirakawa M, Iwanami N, Boehm T. Limits to in vivo fate changes of epithelia in thymus and parathyroid by ectopic expression of transcription factors Gcm2 and Foxn1. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13554. [PMID: 35941210 PMCID: PMC9360016 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17844-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of the parathyroid and the thymus from the third pharyngeal pouch depends on the activities of the Gcm2 and Foxn1 transcription factors, respectively, whose expression domains sharply demarcate two regions in the developing third pharyngeal pouch. Here, we have generated novel mouse models to examine whether ectopic co-expression of Gcm2 in the thymic epithelium and of Foxn1 in the parathyroid perturbs the establishment of organ fates in vivo. Expression of Gcm2 in the thymic rudiment does not activate a parathyroid-specific expression programme, even in the absence of Foxn1 activity. Co-expression of Foxn1 in the parathyroid fails to impose thymopoietic capacity. We conclude that the actions of Foxn1 and Gcm2 transcription factors are cell context-dependent and that they each require permissive transcription factor landscapes in order to successfully interfere with organ-specific cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Nagakubo
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany.,Division of Health and Hygienic Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Himeji Dokkyo University, 7-2-1 Kamiohno, Himeji, Hyogo, 670-8524, Japan
| | - Mayumi Hirakawa
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany.,Division of Immunology and Allergy, Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, 2669 Yamazaki, Noda-City, Chiba, 278-0022, Japan
| | - Norimasa Iwanami
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Bioscience Research and Education, Utsunomiya University, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 321-8505, Japan
| | - Thomas Boehm
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany.
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4
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Molekularne mechanizmy działania czynnika transkrypcyjnego FOXN1 w skórze. POSTEP HIG MED DOSW 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/ahem-2021-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstrakt
Artykuł jest przeglądem wyników badań dotyczących funkcji i mechanizmu działania czynnika transkrypcyjnego FOXN1. Lokalizacja FOXN1 u przedstawicieli wszystkich ssaków ogranicza się do nabłonka tylko dwóch organów: skóry i grasicy. W skórze FOXN1 stymuluje różnicowanie się keratynocytów, reguluje proces pigmentacji i bierze udział w rozwoju włosów. W skórze objętej urazem FOXN1 jest zaangażowany w bliznowy proces gojenia poprzez udział w reepitelializacji oraz w procesie przejścia epitelialno-mezenchymalnego (epithelial-mesenchymal transition; EMT). Pozbawione aktywnego czynnika transkrypcyjnego FOXN1 dorosłe myszy (Foxn1-/-) goją urazy skórne w unikalnym, charakterystycznym jedynie dla płodów ssaków, procesie bezbliznowej (scar-free) regeneracji. Analiza porównawcza transkryptomów skóry: dorosłych myszy Foxn1-/- oraz skóry płodów myszy (14. dzień rozwoju płodowego) wykazała istotne podobieństwa w ekspresji genów związanych przede wszystkim z przebudową tkanek, budową cytoszkieletu, gojeniem urazów, odpowiedzią immunologiczną oraz różnicowaniem. Wyniki te wskazują, iż FOXN1 może być głównym elementem szlaku sygnałowego na drodze tzw. punktu tranzycyjnego czyli przejścia z etapu gojenia bezbliznowego (płodowego) do bliznowego (dorosłego) w trakcie rozwoju płodowego.
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Morimoto R, Swann J, Nusser A, Trancoso I, Schorpp M, Boehm T. Evolution of thymopoietic microenvironments. Open Biol 2021; 11:200383. [PMID: 33622100 PMCID: PMC8061691 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, the development of lymphocytes from undifferentiated haematopoietic precursors takes place in so-called primary lymphoid organs, such as the thymus. Therein, lymphocytes undergo a complex differentiation and selection process that culminates in the generation of a pool of mature T cells that collectively express a self-tolerant repertoire of somatically diversified antigen receptors. Throughout this entire process, the microenvironment of the thymus in large parts dictates the sequence and outcome of the lymphopoietic activity. In vertebrates, direct genetic evidence in some species and circumstantial evidence in others suggest that the formation of a functional thymic microenvironment is controlled by members of the Foxn1/4 family of transcription factors. In teleost fishes, both Foxn1 and Foxn4 contribute to thymopoietic activity, whereas Foxn1 is both necessary and sufficient in the mammalian thymus. The evolutionary history of Foxn1/4 genes suggests that an ancient Foxn4 gene lineage gave rise to the Foxn1 genes in early vertebrates, raising the question of the thymopoietic capacity of the ancestor common to all vertebrates. Recent attempts to reconstruct the early events in the evolution of thymopoietic tissues by replacement of the mouse Foxn1 gene by Foxn1-like genes isolated from various chordate species suggest a plausible scenario. It appears that the primordial thymus was a bi-potent lymphoid organ, supporting both B cell and T cell development; however, during the course of vertebrate, evolution B cell development was gradually diminished converting the thymus into a site specialized in T cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Morimoto
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jeremy Swann
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anja Nusser
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Inês Trancoso
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Schorpp
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Boehm
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
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6
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Song J, Hoenerhoff M, Yang D, Yang Y, Deng C, Wen L, Ma L, Pallas B, Zhao C, Koike Y, Koike T, Lester P, Yang B, Zhang J, Chen YE, Xu J. Development of the Nude Rabbit Model. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:656-665. [PMID: 33606990 PMCID: PMC7940256 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss-of-function mutations in the forkhead box N1 (FOXN1) gene lead to nude severe combined immunodeficiency, a rare inherited syndrome characterized by athymia, severe T cell immunodeficiency, congenital alopecia, and nail dystrophy. We recently produced FOXN1 mutant nude rabbits (NuRabbits) by using CRISPR-Cas9. Here we report the establishment and maintenance of the NuRabbit colony. NuRabbits, like nude mice, are hairless, lack thymic development, and are immunodeficient. To demonstrate the functional applications of NuRabbits in biomedical research, we show that they can successfully serve as the recipient animals in xenotransplantation experiments using human induced pluripotent stem cells or tissue-engineered blood vessels. Our work presents the NuRabbit as a new member of the immunodeficient animal model family. The relatively large size and long lifespan of NuRabbits offer unique applications in regenerative medicine, cancer research, and the study of a variety of other human conditions, including immunodeficiency. NuRabbit colony is established and available for the research community NuRabbits are nude and immunodeficient due to a mutation(s) in the FOXN1 gene NuRabbits support iPSC teratoma assay NuRabbits support xenotransplant of tissue-engineered blood vessels
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Song
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Mark Hoenerhoff
- Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dongshan Yang
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Cheng Deng
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Luan Wen
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Linyuan Ma
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Brooke Pallas
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Changzhi Zhao
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yui Koike
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Tomonari Koike
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Patrick Lester
- Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jifeng Zhang
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Y Eugene Chen
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jie Xu
- Center for Advanced Models and Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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7
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Transcriptome Profiling and Differential Gene Expression in Canine Microdissected Anagen and Telogen Hair Follicles and Interfollicular Epidermis. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11080884. [PMID: 32759649 PMCID: PMC7463739 DOI: 10.3390/genes11080884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcriptome profile and differential gene expression in telogen and late anagen microdissected hair follicles and the interfollicular epidermis of healthy dogs was investigated by using RNAseq. The genes with the highest expression levels in each group were identified and genes known from studies in other species to be associated with structure and function of hair follicles and epidermis were evaluated. Transcriptome profiling revealed that late anagen follicles expressed mainly keratins and telogen follicles expressed GSN and KRT15. The interfollicular epidermis expressed predominately genes encoding for proteins associated with differentiation. All sample groups express genes encoding for proteins involved in cellular growth and signal transduction. The expression pattern of skin-associated genes in dogs is similar to humans. Differences in expression compared to mice and humans include BMP2 expression mainly in telogen and high KRT17 expression in the interfollicular epidermis of dogs. Our data provide the basis for the investigation of the structure and function of canine skin or skin disease and support the use of dogs as a model for human cutaneous disease by assigning gene expression to specific tissue states.
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Weng T, Wu P, Zhang W, Zheng Y, Li Q, Jin R, Chen H, You C, Guo S, Han C, Wang X. Regeneration of skin appendages and nerves: current status and further challenges. J Transl Med 2020; 18:53. [PMID: 32014004 PMCID: PMC6996190 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02248-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-engineered skin (TES), as an analogue of native skin, is promising for wound repair and regeneration. However, a major drawback of TES products is a lack of skin appendages and nerves to enhance skin healing, structural integrity and skin vitality. Skin appendages and nerves are important constituents for fully functional skin. To date, many studies have yielded remarkable results in the field of skin appendages reconstruction and nerve regeneration. However, patients often complain about a loss of skin sensation and even cutaneous chronic pain. Restoration of pain, temperature, and touch perceptions should now be a major challenge to solve in order to improve patients’ quality of life. Current strategies to create skin appendages and sensory nerve regeneration are mainly based on different types of seeding cells, scaffold materials, bioactive factors and involved signaling pathways. This article provides a comprehensive overview of different strategies for, and advances in, skin appendages and sensory nerve regeneration, which is an important issue in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Weng
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Pan Wu
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yurong Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Qiong Li
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Ronghua Jin
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Haojiao Chen
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chuangang You
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Songxue Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chunmao Han
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Xingang Wang
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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9
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Walendzik K, Kopcewicz M, Bukowska J, Panasiewicz G, Szafranska B, Gawronska-Kozak B. The Transcription Factor FOXN1 Regulates Skin Adipogenesis and Affects Susceptibility to Diet-Induced Obesity. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 140:1166-1175.e9. [PMID: 31811821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
FOXN1, a transcription factor expressed in the epidermis, regulates keratinocyte differentiation and participates in skin wound healing. In this study, we explored the impact of FOXN1 insufficiency on diet-stimulated weight gain and dermal white adipose tissue regulation in the intact and wounded skin of FOXN1eGFP/+ (heterozygotes, FOXN1-insufficient) mice in the context of age and diet. The results showed that on a high-fat diet, FOXN1eGFP/+ mice gained significantly less body weight than their FOXN1+/+ counterparts (FOXN1-sufficient mice). The intact and wounded skin of FOXN1eGFP/+ mice displayed abrogated expression of the master regulators of adipogenesis, PPARγ, FABP4, and leptin, which decreased with age in FOXN1+/+ mice. FOXN1 insufficiency also resulted in a decreased percentage of adipocyte-committed precursor cells (CD24+) in the skin. The proadipogenic pathway genes Bmp2, Igf2, and Mest showed a gradual decrease in expression that accompanied the gradual inactivation of FOXN1 in the skin of FOXN1+/+, FOXN1eGFP/+, and FOXN1eGFP/eGFP (lack of FOXN1) mice. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 and insulin-like growth factor 2 signals colocalized with FOXN1-eGFP in the epidermis and in hair follicles. These data demonstrated that FOXN1 initiates the cascade of adipogenic signaling that regulates skin homeostasis and wound healing and affects susceptibility to diet-induced obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walendzik
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Kopcewicz
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Bukowska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Panasiewicz
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Bozena Szafranska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Barbara Gawronska-Kozak
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland.
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10
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Foxn1 in Skin Development, Homeostasis and Wound Healing. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19071956. [PMID: 29973508 PMCID: PMC6073674 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intensive research effort has focused on cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate skin biology, including the phenomenon of scar-free skin healing during foetal life. Transcription factors are the key molecules that tune gene expression and either promote or suppress gene transcription. The epidermis is the source of transcription factors that regulate many functions of epidermal cells such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and migration. Furthermore, the activation of epidermal transcription factors also causes changes in the dermal compartment of the skin. This review focuses on the transcription factor Foxn1 and its role in skin biology. The regulatory function of Foxn1 in the skin relates to physiological (development and homeostasis) and pathological (skin wound healing) conditions. In particular, the pivotal role of Foxn1 in skin development and the acquisition of the adult skin phenotype, which coincides with losing the ability of scar-free healing, is discussed. Thus, genetic manipulations with Foxn1 expression, specifically those introducing conditional Foxn1 silencing in a Foxn1+/+ organism or its knock-in in a Foxn1−/− model, may provide future perspectives for regenerative medicine.
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11
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Schiavo G, Bertolini F, Utzeri VJ, Ribani A, Geraci C, Santoro L, Óvilo C, Fernández AI, Gallo M, Fontanesi L. Taking advantage from phenotype variability in a local animal genetic resource: identification of genomic regions associated with the hairless phenotype in Casertana pigs. Anim Genet 2018; 49:321-325. [DOI: 10.1111/age.12665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Schiavo
- Division of Animal Sciences; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences; University of Bologna; Viale Fanin 46 40127 Bologna Italy
| | - F. Bertolini
- Division of Animal Sciences; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences; University of Bologna; Viale Fanin 46 40127 Bologna Italy
- Department of Animal Science; Iowa State University; 2255 Kildee Hall 50011 Ames IA USA
- Department of Bio and Health Informatics; Technical University of Denmark; Kemitorvet; Building 208 Room 007, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby Denmark
| | - V. J. Utzeri
- Division of Animal Sciences; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences; University of Bologna; Viale Fanin 46 40127 Bologna Italy
| | - A. Ribani
- Division of Animal Sciences; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences; University of Bologna; Viale Fanin 46 40127 Bologna Italy
| | - C. Geraci
- Division of Animal Sciences; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences; University of Bologna; Viale Fanin 46 40127 Bologna Italy
| | - L. Santoro
- ConSDABI - National Focal Point Italiano FAO; Contrada Piano Cappelle 82100 Benevento Italy
| | - C. Óvilo
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal; Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA); Ctra. de la Coruña km. 7.5 28040 Madrid Spain
| | - A. I. Fernández
- Departamento de Mejora Genética Animal; Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA); Ctra. de la Coruña km. 7.5 28040 Madrid Spain
| | - M. Gallo
- Associazione Nazionale Allevatori Suini; Via Nizza 53 00198 Roma Italy
| | - L. Fontanesi
- Division of Animal Sciences; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences; University of Bologna; Viale Fanin 46 40127 Bologna Italy
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12
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Kahata K, Dadras MS, Moustakas A. TGF-β Family Signaling in Epithelial Differentiation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2018; 10:cshperspect.a022194. [PMID: 28246184 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a022194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Epithelia exist in the animal body since the onset of embryonic development; they generate tissue barriers and specify organs and glands. Through epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMTs), epithelia generate mesenchymal cells that form new tissues and promote healing or disease manifestation when epithelial homeostasis is challenged physiologically or pathologically. Transforming growth factor-βs (TGF-βs), activins, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and growth and differentiation factors (GDFs) have been implicated in the regulation of epithelial differentiation. These TGF-β family ligands are expressed and secreted at sites where the epithelium interacts with the mesenchyme and provide paracrine queues from the mesenchyme to the neighboring epithelium, helping the specification of differentiated epithelial cell types within an organ. TGF-β ligands signal via Smads and cooperating kinase pathways and control the expression or activities of key transcription factors that promote either epithelial differentiation or mesenchymal transitions. In this review, we discuss evidence that illustrates how TGF-β family ligands contribute to epithelial differentiation and induce mesenchymal transitions, by focusing on the embryonic ectoderm and tissues that form the external mammalian body lining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoru Kahata
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mahsa Shahidi Dadras
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
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13
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Song J, Yang D, Ruan J, Zhang J, Chen YE, Xu J. Production of immunodeficient rabbits by multiplex embryo transfer and multiplex gene targeting. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12202. [PMID: 28939872 PMCID: PMC5610260 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12201-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunodeficient mice have been used predominantly in biomedical research. Realizing that large animal species may have an enhanced ability to predict clinical outcome relative to mice, we worked to develop immunodeficient rabbits by CRISPR/Cas9. We first demonstrated that multiplex embryo transfer efficiently produced multiple lines of single-gene mutant (SGM) founders. Embryos microinjected with single sgRNA targeting FOXN1, RAG2, IL2RG or PRKDC were pooled for embryo transfer. As few as three recipients were used to produce twenty SGM founders for four genes. We then demonstrated the powerful multiplex targeting capacity of CRISPR/Cas9. First, two genes on the same chromosome were targeted simultaneously, resulting in three RAG1/RAG2 double-gene mutant (DGM) founders. Next we microinjected forty-five embryos each with five sgRNAs targeting FOXN1, RAG1, RAG2, IL2RG and PRKDC, and transferred them to two recipients. Five founders were produced: one SGM, two DGM, one triple-gene mutant and one quadruple-gene mutant. The present work demonstrates that multiplex embryo transfer and multiplex gene targeting can be used to quickly and efficiently generate mutant rabbit founders. Four lines of SGM (e.g. FOXN1, RAG2, IL2RG, and PRKDC) immunodeficient rabbits, as well as multigenic mutant immunodeficient rabbits have been produced. These animals may prove useful for biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Song
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Dongshan Yang
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Jinxue Ruan
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Jifeng Zhang
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Yuqing Eugene Chen
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA.
| | - Jie Xu
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA.
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14
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Gallo V, Cirillo E, Giardino G, Pignata C. FOXN1 Deficiency: from the Discovery to Novel Therapeutic Approaches. J Clin Immunol 2017; 37:751-758. [DOI: 10.1007/s10875-017-0445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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15
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Abstract
FOXN1 is a prodifferentiation transcription factor in the skin epithelium. Recently, it has also emerged as an important player in controlling the skin wound healing process, as it actively participates in reepithelialization and is thought to be responsible for scar formation. FOXN1 positivity is also a feature of pigmented keratinocytes, including nevi, and FOXN1 is an attribute of benign epithelial tumors. The lack of FOXN1 favors the skin regeneration process displayed by nude mice, pointing to FOXN1 as a switch between regeneration and reparative processes. The stem cell niche provides a functional source of cells after the loss of tissue following wounding. The involvement of prodifferentiation factors in the regulation of this pool of stem cells is suggested. However, the exact mechanism is still under question, and we speculate that the FOXN1 transcription factor is involved in this process. This review analyzes the pleiotropic effects of FOXN1 in the skin, its function in the tumorigenesis process, and its potential role in depletion of the stem cell niche after injury, as well as its suggested mechanistic role, acting in a cell-autonomous and a non-cell-autonomous manner during skin self-renewal.
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16
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Kopcewicz MM, Kur-Piotrowska A, Bukowska J, Gimble JM, Gawronska-Kozak B. Foxn1 and Mmp-9 expression in intact skin and during excisional wound repair in young, adult, and old C57Bl/6 mice. Wound Repair Regen 2017; 25:248-259. [PMID: 28371152 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor Foxn1 is essential for skin development. Our previous studies performed on young C57BL/6J mice model showed that Foxn1 acts as regulator of the skin wound healing process. The present study extended our initial research regarding the expression and potential role of Foxn1 in the intact and wounded skin as a function of animal age and stage of the wound healing process. We analyzed Foxn1 and Mmp-9 expression in the intact and postinjured skin of young, adult, and old C57BL/6J and transgenic Foxn1::Egfp mice. The similar levels of epidermal Foxn1 mRNA expression were detected in young and adult C57BL/6J mice and higher levels in old animals. Postinjured skin tissues displayed a gradual decrease of Foxn1 mRNA expression at Days 1, 5, and 7 after injury. Foxn1-eGFP positive cells were abundant at wound margin and in re-epithelialized epidermis at postwounded Days 1, 5, and 7 and colocalized with E-cadherin and Mmp-9. Postwounded skin at Days 14-36 displayed Foxn1-eGFP cells in the epidermis and in the dermal part of the skin (papillary dermis). A subset of Foxn1-eGFP positive cells in the papillary dermis expressed the myofibroblast marker αSMA. Flow cytometric analysis of cells isolated from postwounded (Day 7) skin tissues showed a significant increase in the percentage of Foxn1-eGFP positive cells with phenotype of double positivity for E-cadherin/N-cadherin (epithelial/mesenchymal markers). Collectively, these data identify the transcription factor Foxn1 as a potential key epidermal regulator modifying both epidermal and dermal healing processes after cutaneous wounding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta M Kopcewicz
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Anna Kur-Piotrowska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Bukowska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jeffrey M Gimble
- LaCell LLC, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.,Departments of Medicine, Structural and Cellular Biology, and Surgery and Center for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Barbara Gawronska-Kozak
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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17
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Uddin MM, Ohigashi I, Motosugi R, Nakayama T, Sakata M, Hamazaki J, Nishito Y, Rode I, Tanaka K, Takemoto T, Murata S, Takahama Y. Foxn1-β5t transcriptional axis controls CD8 + T-cell production in the thymus. Nat Commun 2017; 8:14419. [PMID: 28176764 PMCID: PMC5309848 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms14419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is an organ that produces functionally competent T cells that protect us from pathogens and malignancies. Foxn1 is a transcription factor that is essential for thymus organogenesis; however, the direct target for Foxn1 to actuate thymic T-cell production is unknown. Here we show that a Foxn1-binding cis-regulatory element promotes the transcription of β5t, which has an essential role in cortical thymic epithelial cells to induce positive selection of functionally competent CD8+ T cells. A point mutation in this genome element results in a defect in β5t expression and CD8+ T-cell production in mice. The results reveal a Foxn1-β5t transcriptional axis that governs CD8+ T-cell production in the thymus. Foxn1 is involved in thymic epithelial cell (TEC) and CD8+ T cell development. Here the authors show this development requires Foxn1 binding proximal to, and inducing transcription of, the gene encoding β5t in cortical TECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Myn Uddin
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Izumi Ohigashi
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Ryo Motosugi
- Laboratory of Protein Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Tomomi Nakayama
- Laboratory of Protein Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Mie Sakata
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Jun Hamazaki
- Laboratory of Protein Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Nishito
- Core Technology and Research Center, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Immanuel Rode
- Division of Cellular Immunology, German Cancer Research Center, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Keiji Tanaka
- Laboratory of Protein Metabolism, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Takemoto
- Laboratory for Embryology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Shigeo Murata
- Laboratory of Protein Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yousuke Takahama
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
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18
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Rota IA, Dhalla F. FOXN1 deficient nude severe combined immunodeficiency. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2017; 12:6. [PMID: 28077132 PMCID: PMC5225657 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-016-0557-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nude severe combined immunodeficiency is a rare inherited disease caused by autosomal recessive loss-of-function mutations in FOXN1. This gene encodes a transcription factor essential for the development of the thymus, the primary lymphoid organ that supports T-cell development and selection. To date nine cases have been reported presenting with the clinical triad of absent thymus resulting in severe T-cell immunodeficiency, congenital alopecia universalis and nail dystrophy. Diagnosis relies on testing for FOXN1 mutations, which allows genetic counselling and guides therapeutic management. Options for treating the underlying immune deficiency include HLA-matched genoidentical haematopoietic cell transplantation containing mature donor T-cells or thymus tissue transplantation. Experience from other severe combined immune deficiency syndromes suggests that early diagnosis, supportive care and definitive management result in better patient outcomes. Without these the prognosis is poor due to early-onset life threatening infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna A Rota
- Developmental Immunology Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Fatima Dhalla
- Developmental Immunology Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. .,Department of Clinical Immunology, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK.
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19
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Goto T, Hara H, Nakauchi H, Hochi S, Hirabayashi M. Hypomorphic phenotype of Foxn1 gene-modified rats by CRISPR/Cas9 system. Transgenic Res 2016; 25:533-44. [PMID: 26931321 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-016-9941-9] [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: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Foxn1 gene is known as a critical factor for the differentiation of thymic and skin epithelial cells. This study was designed to examine the phenotype of Foxn1-modified rats generated by the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Guide-RNA designed for first exon of the Foxn1 and mRNA of Cas9 were co-injected into the pronucleus of Crlj:WI zygotes. Transfer of 158 injected zygotes resulted in the birth of 50 offspring (32 %), and PCR identified five (10 %) as Foxn1-edited. Genomic sequencing revealed the deletion of 44 or 60 bp from and/or insertion of 4 bp into the Foxn1 gene in a single allele. The number of T-cells in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of mutant rats decreased markedly. While homozygous deleted mutant rats had no thymus, the mutant rats were not completely hairless and showed normal performance in delivery and nursing. Splicing variants of the indel-mutation in the Foxn1 gene may cause hypomorphic allele, resulting in the phenotype of thymus deficiency and incomplete hairless. In conclusion, the mutant rats in Foxn1 gene edited by the CRISPR/Cas9 system showed the phenotype of thymus deficiency and incomplete hairless which was characterized by splicing variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teppei Goto
- Section of Mammalian Transgenesis, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji-cho, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Hara
- Section of Mammalian Transgenesis, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji-cho, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Nakauchi
- Japan Science Technology Agency, ERATO, Nakauchi Stem Cell and Organ Regeneration Project, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.,The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Hochi
- Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda, Nagano, Japan
| | - Masumi Hirabayashi
- Section of Mammalian Transgenesis, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji-cho, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan.
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20
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Lanzini J, Dargère D, Regazzetti A, Tebani A, Laprévote O, Auzeil N. Changing in lipid profile induced by the mutation of Foxn1 gene: A lipidomic analysis of Nude mice skin. Biochimie 2015; 118:234-43. [PMID: 26427556 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Nude mice carry a spontaneous mutation affecting the gene Foxn1 mainly expressed in the epidermis. This gene is involved in several skin functions, especially in the proliferation and the differentiation of keratinocytes which are key cells of epithelial barrier. The skin, a protective barrier for the body, is essentially composed of lipids. Taking into account these factors, we conducted a lipidomic study to search for any changes in lipid composition of skin possibly related to Foxn1 mutation. Lipids were extracted from skin biopsies of Nude and BALB/c mice to be analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to a high resolution mass spectrometer (HRMS). Multivariate and univariate data analyses were carried out to compare lipid extracts. Identification was performed using HRMS data, retention time and mass spectrometry fragmentation study. These results indicate that mutation of Foxn1 leads to significant modifications in the lipidome in Nude mice skin. An increase in cholesterol sulfate, phospholipids, sphingolipids and fatty acids associated with a decrease in glycerolipids suggest that the lipidome in mice skin is regulated by the Foxn1 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Lanzini
- UMR CNRS 8638, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Descartes, 4 Avenue de L'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Delphine Dargère
- UMR CNRS 8638, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Descartes, 4 Avenue de L'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Anne Regazzetti
- UMR CNRS 8638, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Descartes, 4 Avenue de L'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Abdellah Tebani
- UMR CNRS 8638, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Descartes, 4 Avenue de L'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Laprévote
- UMR CNRS 8638, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Descartes, 4 Avenue de L'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France; AP-HP, Service de Toxicologie Biologique, Hôpital Lariboisière, 4 Rue Ambroise Paré, 75475 Paris Cedex 10, France
| | - Nicolas Auzeil
- UMR CNRS 8638, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris Descartes, 4 Avenue de L'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France.
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21
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Swann JB, Weyn A, Nagakubo D, Bleul CC, Toyoda A, Happe C, Netuschil N, Hess I, Haas-Assenbaum A, Taniguchi Y, Schorpp M, Boehm T. Conversion of the thymus into a bipotent lymphoid organ by replacement of FOXN1 with its paralog, FOXN4. Cell Rep 2014; 8:1184-97. [PMID: 25131198 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is a lymphoid organ unique to vertebrates, and it provides a unique microenvironment that facilitates the differentiation of immature hematopoietic precursors into mature T cells. We subjected the evolutionary trajectory of the thymic microenvironment to experimental analysis. A hypothetical primordial form of the thymus was established in mice by replacing FOXN1, the vertebrate-specific master regulator of thymic epithelial cell function, with its metazoan ancestor, FOXN4, thereby resetting the regulatory and coding changes that have occurred since the divergence of these two paralogs. FOXN4 exhibited substantial thymopoietic activity. Unexpectedly, histological changes and a functional imbalance between the lymphopoietic cytokine IL7 and the T cell specification factor DLL4 within the reconstructed thymus resulted in coincident but spatially segregated T and B cell development. Our results identify an evolutionary mechanism underlying the conversion of a general lymphopoietic organ to a site of exclusive T cell generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy B Swann
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Annelies Weyn
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daisuke Nagakubo
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Conrad C Bleul
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Atsushi Toyoda
- Comparative Genomics Laboratory, Center for Genetic Resource Information, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Christiane Happe
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Nikolai Netuschil
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Isabell Hess
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Annette Haas-Assenbaum
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yoshihito Taniguchi
- Department of Radiation Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Michael Schorpp
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Boehm
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany.
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22
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Rishikaysh P, Dev K, Diaz D, Qureshi WMS, Filip S, Mokry J. Signaling involved in hair follicle morphogenesis and development. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:1647-70. [PMID: 24451143 PMCID: PMC3907891 DOI: 10.3390/ijms15011647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 239] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2013] [Revised: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hair follicle morphogenesis depends on Wnt, Shh, Notch, BMP and other signaling pathways interplay between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. The Wnt pathway plays an essential role during hair follicle induction, Shh is involved in morphogenesis and late stage differentiation, Notch signaling determines stem cell fate while BMP is involved in cellular differentiation. The Wnt pathway is considered to be the master regulator during hair follicle morphogenesis. Wnt signaling proceeds through EDA/EDAR/NF-κB signaling. NF-κB regulates the Wnt pathway and acts as a signal mediator by upregulating the expression of Shh ligand. Signal crosstalk between epithelial and mesenchymal cells takes place mainly through primary cilia. Primary cilia formation is initiated with epithelial laminin-511 interaction with dermal β-1 integrin, which also upregulates expression of downstream effectors of Shh pathway in dermal lineage. PDGF signal transduction essential for crosstalk is mediated through epithelial PDGF-A and PDGFRα expressed on the primary cilia. Dermal Shh and PDGF signaling up-regulates dermal noggin expression; noggin is a potent inhibitor of BMP signaling which helps in counteracting BMP mediated β-catenin inhibition. This interplay of signaling between the epithelial and dermal lineage helps in epithelial Shh signal amplification. The dermal Wnt pathway helps in upregulation of epithelial Notch expression. Dysregulation of these pathways leads to certain abnormalities and in some cases even tumor outgrowth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pisal Rishikaysh
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty in Hradec Kralove, Charles University in Prague, Simkova 870, 500 38 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Kapil Dev
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty in Hradec Kralove, Charles University in Prague, Simkova 870, 500 38 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Daniel Diaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty in Hradec Kralove, Charles University in Prague, Simkova 870, 500 38 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Wasay Mohiuddin Shaikh Qureshi
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty in Hradec Kralove, Charles University in Prague, Simkova 870, 500 38 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Stanislav Filip
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Medical Faculty in Hradec Kralove, Charles University in Prague, Simkova 870, 500 38 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | - Jaroslav Mokry
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty in Hradec Kralove, Charles University in Prague, Simkova 870, 500 38 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
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23
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Palamaro L, Romano R, Fusco A, Giardino G, Gallo V, Pignata C. FOXN1 in Organ Development and Human Diseases. Int Rev Immunol 2014; 33:83-93. [DOI: 10.3109/08830185.2013.870171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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24
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Boehm T, Swann JB. Thymus involution and regeneration: two sides of the same coin? Nat Rev Immunol 2013; 13:831-8. [DOI: 10.1038/nri3534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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25
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Abstract
Micro X-ray computed tomography (micro-CT) is widely used in preclinical studies of small animals. However, due to the low soft tissue contrast, segmentation of soft tissues in the micro-CT image is a challenging problem. To gain a better understanding of the macroscopic anatomy of the mouse embryo, 3 fixation methods and 3 metal stainings were examined for micro-CT using C57BL/6J mouse embryos in the present study. The examination demonstrated that 1% acetic acid/95% ethanol fixative together with zinc staining provided a high contrast micro-CT image, enabling the segmentation of soft tissues. Then, using this condition, the macroscopic embryo structure of the nude mouse was examined, revealing lack of a thymus. It appears that micro-CT with the fixation and staining condition devised in the present study could be a powerful tool in detecting the effects of various mutations at embryonic stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Hiraiwa
- RIKEN BioResource Center, 3-1-1 Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
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26
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Hairless down-regulates expression of Msx2 and its related target genes in hair follicles. J Dermatol Sci 2013; 71:203-9. [PMID: 23702391 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2013.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hairless (HR), a transcriptional cofactor, plays important roles in hair follicle (HF) morphogenesis and cycling. Recently, we reported the new Hr mutant mouse called "Hairpoor" (Hr(Hp)) that causes HR overexpression through translational de-repression. The Msh homeobox 2 (Msx2) is a homolog of the Drosophila muscle segment homeobox (msh) gene, which expressed in the hair bulb, including in the germinal matrix, and its expression spreads into the upper region of the HF including the hair cortex. OBJECTIVE Although Msx2 is regarded as an important gene in hair cycle control and hair shaft differentiation, the regulation of Msx2 expression is not well-known. METHODS Using realtime polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blot, we investigated the relationship between HR and Msx2 in the Hr(Hp)/Hr(Hp) mouse during the HF morphogenesis. Immunohistochemistry was performed to compare the pattern of expression of MSX2 in Hr(Hp)/Hr(Hp) mouse skin with that in wild-type skin. Msx2 mRNA expression and promoter activity was estimated using a transient expression system to see whether HR down-regulates Msx2 expression in vitro. We also investigated whether downregulation of MSX2 by HR also affects the MSX2 regulatory pathway in the Hr(Hp)/Hr(Hp) mouse and in an in vitro system. RESULTS We found that the expression of Msx2 was down-regulated by HR, which in turn down-regulated expression of Foxn1 and Lef1, MSX2 target genes, in vivo as well as in vitro. CONCLUSION Our results show that HR regulates expression of genes in the MSX2 regulatory pathway, which explains abnormal HF formation in Hr(Hp)/Hr(Hp) skin.
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Lo Vasco VR. Role of the phosphoinositide signal transduction pathway in the endometrium. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s2305-0500(13)60086-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Cai J, Ma L. Msx2 and Foxn1 regulate nail homeostasis. Genesis 2011; 49:449-59. [PMID: 21387539 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.20744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2010] [Revised: 02/10/2011] [Accepted: 02/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal interactions underlie the foundation for ectodermal appendage formation. Signal molecules such as BMPs and WNTs mediate crosstalk between the two tissue layers and coordinate both the induction and morphogenesis of ectodermal appendages. Here, we analyzed the function of two BMP downstream transcription factors, Msx2 and Foxn1, in nail differentiation. First, we show that Msx2 function is required during onychocyte (nail cell) terminal differentiation. Second, the Msx2/Foxn1/hair keratin pathway controlling hair differentiation is also conserved during onychocyte differentiation. Finally, the Msx2-/-; Foxn1-/- double-mutant nails exhibit a more severe phenotype than either single mutant including nail bed hyperplasia. Together, our data implicate important functions for Msx2 and Foxn1 in regulating differentiation of the keratogenous zone, proliferation of distal nail matrix cells, and organization of the nail bed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cai
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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The nude mutant gene Foxn1 is a HOXC13 regulatory target during hair follicle and nail differentiation. J Invest Dermatol 2010; 131:828-37. [PMID: 21191399 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2010.391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Among the Hox genes, homeobox C13 (Hoxc13) has been shown to be essential for proper hair shaft differentiation, as Hoxc13 gene-targeted (Hoxc13(tm1Mrc)) mice completely lack external hair. Because of the remarkable overt phenotypic parallels to the Foxn1(nu) (nude) mutant mice, we sought to determine whether Hoxc13 and forkhead box N1 (Foxn1) might act in a common pathway of hair follicle (HF) differentiation. We show that the alopecia exhibited by both the Hoxc13(tm1Mrc) and Foxn1(nu) mice is because of strikingly similar defects in hair shaft differentiation and that both mutants suffer from a severe nail dystrophy. These phenotypic similarities are consistent with the extensive overlap between Hoxc13 and Foxn1 expression patterns in the HF and the nail matrix. Furthermore, DNA microarray analysis of skin from Hoxc13(tm1Mrc) mice identified Foxn1 as significantly downregulated along with numerous hair keratin genes. This Foxn1 downregulation apparently reflects the loss of direct transcriptional control by HOXC13 as indicated by our results obtained through co-transfection and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. As presented in the discussion, these data support a regulatory model of keratinocyte differentiation in which HOXC13-dependent activation of Foxn1 is part of a regulatory cascade controlling the expression of terminal differentiation markers.
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Thymopoiesis in mice depends on a Foxn1-positive thymic epithelial cell lineage. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:16613-8. [PMID: 20823228 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1004623107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus is essential for T-cell development. Here, we focus on the role of the transcription factor Foxn1 in the development and function of thymic epithelial cells (TECs) of the mouse. TECs are of endodermal origin; they initially express Foxn1 and give rise to orthotopic (thoracic) and additional (cervical) thymi. Using Foxn1-directed cytoablation, we show that during embryogenesis, cervical thymi develop a few days after the thoracic lobes, and that bipotent epithelial progenitors of cortical and medullary compartments express Foxn1. We also show that following acute selective near-total ablation during embryogenesis, complete regeneration of TECs does not occur, providing an animal model for human thymic aplasia syndromes. Finally, we address the functional role of Foxn1-negative TECs that arise postnatally in the mouse. Lineage tracing shows that such Foxn1-negative TECs are descendants of Foxn1-positive progenitors; furthermore, Foxn1-directed subacute intoxication of TECs by polyglutamine-containing EGFP proteins indicates that a presumptive Foxn1-independent lineage does not contribute to thymopoietic function of the adult thymus. Our findings therefore support the notion that Foxn1 is the essential transcription factor regulating the differentiation of TECs and that its expression marks the major functional lineage of TECs in embryonic and adult thymic tissue.
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31
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Bragulla HH, Homberger DG. Structure and functions of keratin proteins in simple, stratified, keratinized and cornified epithelia. J Anat 2010; 214:516-59. [PMID: 19422428 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2009.01066.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 409] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, the term 'keratin' stood for all of the proteins extracted from skin modifications, such as horns, claws and hooves. Subsequently, it was realized that this keratin is actually a mixture of keratins, keratin filament-associated proteins and other proteins, such as enzymes. Keratins were then defined as certain filament-forming proteins with specific physicochemical properties and extracted from the cornified layer of the epidermis, whereas those filament-forming proteins that were extracted from the living layers of the epidermis were grouped as 'prekeratins' or 'cytokeratins'. Currently, the term 'keratin' covers all intermediate filament-forming proteins with specific physicochemical properties and produced in any vertebrate epithelia. Similarly, the nomenclature of epithelia as cornified, keratinized or non-keratinized is based historically on the notion that only the epidermis of skin modifications such as horns, claws and hooves is cornified, that the non-modified epidermis is a keratinized stratified epithelium, and that all other stratified and non-stratified epithelia are non-keratinized epithelia. At this point in time, the concepts of keratins and of keratinized or cornified epithelia need clarification and revision concerning the structure and function of keratin and keratin filaments in various epithelia of different species, as well as of keratin genes and their modifications, in view of recent research, such as the sequencing of keratin proteins and their genes, cell culture, transfection of epithelial cells, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. Recently, new functions of keratins and keratin filaments in cell signaling and intracellular vesicle transport have been discovered. It is currently understood that all stratified epithelia are keratinized and that some of these keratinized stratified epithelia cornify by forming a Stratum corneum. The processes of keratinization and cornification in skin modifications are different especially with respect to the keratins that are produced. Future research in keratins will provide a better understanding of the processes of keratinization and cornification of stratified epithelia, including those of skin modifications, of the adaptability of epithelia in general, of skin diseases, and of the changes in structure and function of epithelia in the course of evolution. This review focuses on keratins and keratin filaments in mammalian tissue but keratins in the tissues of some other vertebrates are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann H Bragulla
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, 70803, USA.
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Suzuki K, Yamaguchi Y, Villacorte M, Mihara K, Akiyama M, Shimizu H, Taketo MM, Nakagata N, Tsukiyama T, Yamaguchi TP, Birchmeier W, Kato S, Yamada G. Embryonic hair follicle fate change by augmented beta-catenin through Shh and Bmp signaling. Development 2009; 136:367-72. [PMID: 19141668 DOI: 10.1242/dev.021295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
beta-catenin signaling is one of the key factors regulating the fate of hair follicles (HFs). To elucidate the regulatory mechanism of embryonic HF fate determination during epidermal development/differentiation, we analyzed conditional mutant mice with keratinocytes expressing constitutively active beta-catenin (K5-Cre Catnb(ex3)fl/+). The mutant mice developed scaly skin with a thickened epidermis and showed impaired epidermal stratification. The hair shaft keratins were broadly expressed in the epidermis but there was no expression of the terminal differentiation markers K1 and loricrin. Hair placode markers (Bmp2 and Shh) and follicular dermal condensate markers (noggin, patched 1 and Pdgfra) were expressed throughout the epidermis and the upper dermis, respectively. These results indicate that the embryonic epidermal keratinocytes have switched extensively to the HF fate. A series of genetic studies demonstrated that the epidermal switching to HF fate was suppressed by introducing the conditional mutation K5-Cre Catnb(ex3)fl/+Shhfl/- (with additional mutation of Shh signaling) or K5-Cre Catnb(ex3)fl/+BmprIAfl/fl (with additional mutation of Bmp signaling). These results demonstrate that Wnt/beta-catenin signaling relayed through Shh and Bmp signals is the principal regulatory mechanism underlying the HF cell fate change. Assessment of Bmp2 promoter activities suggested a putative regulation by beta-catenin signaling relayed by Shh signaling towards Bmp2. We also found that Shh protein expression was increased and expanded in the epidermis of K5-Cre Catnb(ex3)fl/+BmprIAfl/fl mice. These results indicate the presence of growth factor signal cross-talk involving beta-catenin signaling, which regulates the HF fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Suzuki
- Center for Animal Resources and Development, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan
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Cai J, Lee J, Kopan R, Ma L. Genetic interplays between Msx2 and Foxn1 are required for Notch1 expression and hair shaft differentiation. Dev Biol 2008; 326:420-30. [PMID: 19103190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2008.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2008] [Revised: 11/04/2008] [Accepted: 11/26/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hair shafts are produced from stem cells located in the bulge. Our knowledge of the genetic pathways regulating cell fate acquisition in the immediate descendents of these stem cells, and fate maintenance in their committed progeny, is still incomplete. One pathway involved in fate maintenance within the hair matrix is the Notch pathway. Here we use compound genetic mutants to demonstrate that two transcription factors, Msx2 and Foxn1, are both required to maintain Notch1 expression in the hair follicle matrix. In their absence, Notch1 is markedly reduced in hair matrix; as a consequence, medulla and inner root sheath (IRS) differentiation is impaired. Our studies also suggest that Foxn1 is a direct activator of the Notch1 promoter activity through one or more putative Foxn1 consensus binding sites located within the 4.7 kb of mouse Notch1 promoter. Since recombinant human BMP4 can induce Foxn1 expression in Msx2-deficient hair follicles, and that their effect on cortical keratin expression appears synergistic, we suggest that these two genes function in parallel pathways downstream of BMP signaling and upstream of Notch1. Independent from their role in Notch activation, Msx2 and Foxn1 also contribute to the expression of several cortical and cuticle keratins. The impact of these additional defects is the complete loss of all visible external hairs, not seen in Notch1 mutants. Our results position Msx2 and Foxn1 upstream of Notch1 within the hair matrix and demonstrate that together these factors play a pivotal role in IRS, cortex and medulla differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cai
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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Hwang J, Mehrani T, Millar SE, Morasso MI. Dlx3 is a crucial regulator of hair follicle differentiation and cycling. Development 2008; 135:3149-59. [PMID: 18684741 DOI: 10.1242/dev.022202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Dlx homeobox transcription factors regulate epidermal, neural and osteogenic cellular differentiation. Here, we demonstrate the central role of Dlx3 as a crucial transcriptional regulator of hair formation and regeneration. The selective ablation of Dlx3 in the epidermis results in complete alopecia owing to failure of the hair shaft and inner root sheath to form, which is caused by the abnormal differentiation of the cortex. Significantly, we elucidate the regulatory cascade that positions Dlx3 downstream of Wnt signaling and as an upstream regulator of other transcription factors that regulate hair follicle differentiation, such as Hoxc13 and Gata3. Colocalization of phospho-Smad1/5/8 and Dlx3 is consistent with a regulatory role for BMP signaling to Dlx3 during hair morphogenesis. Importantly, mutant catagen follicles undergo delayed regression and display persistent proliferation. Moreover, ablation of Dlx3 expression in the telogen bulge stem cells is associated with a loss of BMP signaling, precluding re-initiation of the hair follicle growth cycle. Taken together with hair follicle abnormalities in humans with Tricho-Dento-Osseous (TDO) syndrome, an autosomal dominant ectodermal dysplasia linked to mutations in the DLX3 gene, our results establish that Dlx3 is essential for hair morphogenesis, differentiation and cycling programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonsung Hwang
- Developmental Skin Biology Unit, NIAMS, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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35
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Suh PG, Park JI, Manzoli L, Cocco L, Peak JC, Katan M, Fukami K, Kataoka T, Yun SU, Ryu SH. Multiple roles of phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C isozymes. BMB Rep 2008; 41:415-34. [DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2008.41.6.415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 369] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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36
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Gilon M, Sher N, Cohen S, Gat U. Transcriptional activation of a subset of hair keratin genes by the NF-κB effector p65/RelA. Differentiation 2008; 76:518-30. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-0436.2007.00246.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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37
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Fukami K, Ichinohe M, Hirata M, Nakamura Y. Physiological functions of phospholipase C delta-type. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 48:261-73. [PMID: 18177742 DOI: 10.1016/j.advenzreg.2007.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoko Fukami
- Laboratory of Genome and Biosignal, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Science, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji 192-0392, Tokyo, Japan.
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38
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Weiner L, Han R, Scicchitano BM, Li J, Hasegawa K, Grossi M, Lee D, Brissette JL. Dedicated epithelial recipient cells determine pigmentation patterns. Cell 2007; 130:932-42. [PMID: 17803914 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2007.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2007] [Revised: 05/28/2007] [Accepted: 07/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Mammals generate external coloration via dedicated pigment-producing cells but arrange pigment into patterns through mechanisms largely unknown. Here, using mice as models, we show that patterns ultimately emanate from dedicated pigment-receiving cells. These pigment recipients are epithelial cells that recruit melanocytes to their position in the skin and induce the transfer of melanin. We identify Foxn1 (a transcription factor) as an activator of this "pigment recipient phenotype" and Fgf2 (a growth factor and Foxn1 target) as a signal released by recipients. When Foxn1 - and thus dedicated recipients - are redistributed in the skin, new patterns of pigmentation develop, suggesting a mechanism for the evolution of coloration. We conclude that recipients provide a cutaneous template or blueprint that instructs melanocytes where to place pigment. As Foxn1 and Fgf2 also modulate epithelial growth and differentiation, the Foxn1 pathway should serve as a nexus coordinating cell division, differentiation, and pigmentation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies
- Cell Differentiation
- Cell Movement
- Cell Proliferation
- Cells, Cultured
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/genetics
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/immunology
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/metabolism
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/deficiency
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Hair Color/physiology
- Hair Follicle/metabolism
- Humans
- Keratin-15
- Keratin-5/genetics
- Keratinocytes/metabolism
- Melanins/metabolism
- Melanocytes/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Inbred DBA
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, Nude
- Mice, Transgenic
- Phenotype
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Skin/cytology
- Skin/growth & development
- Skin/metabolism
- Skin Pigmentation/physiology
- Time Factors
- Transcription, Genetic
- Transduction, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorin Weiner
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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39
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Nakamura Y, Ichinohe M, Hirata M, Matsuura H, Fujiwara T, Igarashi T, Nakahara M, Yamaguchi H, Yasugi S, Takenawa T, Fukami K. Phospholipase C‐δ1 is an essential molecule downstream ofFoxnl,the gene responsible for the nude mutation, in normal hair development. FASEB J 2007; 22:841-9. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.07-9239com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshikazu Nakamura
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Manabu Ichinohe
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Masayuki Hirata
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Hirokazu Matsuura
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Fujiwara
- Department of Biological ResourcesIntegrated Center for SciencesEhime University, ShitsukawaToon CityEhimeJapan
| | - Takahiro Igarashi
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Masamichi Nakahara
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Hideki Yamaguchi
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Sadao Yasugi
- Department of Biological SciencesGraduate School of ScienceTokyo Metropolitan UniversityHachiojiTokyoJapan
| | - Tadaomi Takenawa
- Department of Lipid BiochemistryGraduate School of MedicineKobe University, Chuou‐kuKobe CityJapan
| | - Kiyoko Fukami
- Laboratory of Genome and BiosignalTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesHachiojiTokyoJapan
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40
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Liu Y, Das S, Olszewski RE, Carpenter DA, Culiat CT, Sundberg JP, Soteropoulos P, Liu X, Doktycz MJ, Michaud EJ, Voy BH. The Near-Naked Hairless (Hr) Mutation Disrupts Hair Formation but Is Not Due to a Mutation in the Hairless Coding Region. J Invest Dermatol 2007; 127:1605-14. [PMID: 17330134 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jid.5700755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Near-naked hairless (Hr(N)) is a semi-dominant, spontaneous mutation that was suggested by allelism testing to be allelic with mouse Hairless (Hr). Hr(N) mice differ from other Hr mutants in that hair loss appears as the postnatal coat begins to emerge, rather than as an inability to regrow hair after the first catagen and that the mutation displays semi-dominant inheritance. We sequenced the Hr cDNA in Hr(N)/Hr(N) mice and characterized the pathological and molecular phenotypes to identify the basis for hair loss in this model. Hr(N)/Hr(N) mice exhibit dystrophic hairs that are unable to emerge consistently from the hair follicle, whereas Hr(N)/+ mice display a sparse coat of hair and a milder degree of follicular dystrophy than their homozygous littermates. DNA microarray analysis of cutaneous gene expression demonstrates that numerous genes are downregulated in Hr(N)/Hr(N) mice, primarily genes important for hair structure. By contrast, Hr expression is significantly increased. Sequencing the Hr-coding region, intron-exon boundaries, 5'- and 3'-untranslated region, and immediate upstream region did not reveal the underlying mutation. Therefore, Hr(N) does not appear to be an allele of Hr but may result from a mutation in a closely linked gene or from a regulatory mutation in Hr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Liu
- Life Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
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41
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Schlake T. Determination of hair structure and shape. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2007; 18:267-73. [PMID: 17324597 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2007.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2006] [Revised: 01/11/2007] [Accepted: 01/15/2007] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The hair follicle attracted significant attention as a model for the investigation of diverse biological problems. Whereas its morphology and the structure of the hair shaft are known in detail, the molecular biology of this miniorgan is significantly less characterised. Many efforts focussed on the development of the hair follicle and its stem cell reservoir; by contrast, the follicular product, the hair, which is interesting not only in terms of cosmetics was neglected. This review highlights our current knowledge of the control of hair structure and shape with emphasis on mouse hair follicle biology and discusses continuing problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schlake
- Max-Planck Institute of Immunobiology, Stuebeweg 51, 79108 Freiburg, Germany.
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42
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Abstract
Alopecia, that is, lack of hair in any quantity, is a frequent complaint of pet owners. Although mostly acquired, rare congenital forms of alopecia exist that are associated with abnormalities in hair follicle morphogenesis. Congenital alopecias can result in changes in quality or quantity of hair follicles and the hair fibres produced by them. They vary in terms of clinical presentation and mode of inheritance. Histopathology is usually needed in order to differentiate between a reduced number of otherwise normal hair follicles and qualitative hair follicle abnormalities. Although our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive hair follicle morphogenesis in mice and humans has significantly increased during the last decade, still very little is known about congenital alopecias in domestic animals. Because of their rarity and the general lack of knowledge about their pathophysiology, classification of congenital alopecias in domestic animals is still unsatisfactory. This article reviews hair follicle morphogenesis and its most important molecular mechanisms, and it discusses the various forms of congenital alopecia occurring in domestic animals that have been described in the literature, differentiating between hair follicle aplasia, hair follicle dysplasia (i.e. defects associated with hair follicle development and defects associated with hair shaft formation), and neuroectodermal dysplasias, the latter involving the hair follicle pigmentary system.
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43
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Mikkola ML, Millar SE. The mammary bud as a skin appendage: unique and shared aspects of development. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2006; 11:187-203. [PMID: 17111222 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-006-9029-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Like other skin appendages, the embryonic mammary gland develops via extensive epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. Early stages in embryonic mammary development strikingly resemble analogous steps in the development of hair follicles and teeth. In each case the first morphological sign of development is a localized thickening in the surface epithelium that subsequently invaginates to form a mammary, hair follicle or tooth bud. Similar sets of intersecting signaling pathways are involved in patterning the mammary, hair follicle and dental epithelium, directing placode formation, and controlling bud invagination. Despite these similarities, subsequent events in the formation of these appendages are diverse. The mammary bud extends to form a sprout that begins to branch upon contact with the mammary fat pad. Hair follicles also extend into the underlying mesenchyme, but instead of branching, hair follicle epithelium folds around a condensation of dermal cells. In contrast, teeth undergo a more complex folding morphogenesis. Here, we review what is known of the molecular and cellular mechanisms controlling early steps in the development of these organs, attempt to unravel both common themes and unique aspects that can begin to explain the diversity of appendage formation, and discuss human genetic diseases that affect appendage morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marja L Mikkola
- Developmental Biology Program, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, PO Box 56, Viikinkaari 9, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
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44
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Abstract
In mice, rats, and humans, loss of function of Foxn1, a member of the winged helix/forkhead family of transcription factors, leads to macroscopic nudity and an inborn dysgenesis of the thymus. Nude (Foxn1(nu)/Foxn1(nu)) mice develop largely normal hair follicles and produce hair shafts. However, presumably because of a lack of certain hair keratins, the hair shafts that are generated twist and coil in the hair follicle infundibulum, which becomes dilated. Since hair shafts fail to penetrate the epidermis, macroscopic nudity results and generates the - grossly misleading - impression that nude mice are hairless. Here, we provide an overview of what is known on the role of Foxn1 in mammalian skin biology, its expression patterns in the hair follicle, its influence on hair follicle function, and onychocyte differentiation. We focus on the mechanisms and signaling pathways by which Foxn1 modulates keratinocyte differentiation in the hair follicle and nail apparatus and summarize the current knowledge on the molecular and functional consequences of a loss of function of the Foxn1 protein in skin. Foxn1 target genes, gene regulation of Foxn, and pharmacological manipulation of the nude phenotype (e.g. by cyclosporine A, KGF, and vitamin D3) are discussed, and important open questions as well as promising research strategies in Foxn1 biology are defined. Taken together, this review aims at delineating why enhanced research efforts in this comparatively neglected field of investigative dermatology promise important new insights into the controls of epithelial differentiation in mammalian skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Mecklenburg
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA
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Rogers MA, Langbein L, Praetzel-Wunder S, Winter H, Schweizer J. Human hair keratin-associated proteins (KAPs). INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CYTOLOGY 2006; 251:209-63. [PMID: 16939781 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7696(06)51006-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Elucidation of the genes encoding structural proteins of the human hair follicle has advanced rapidly during the last decade, complementing nearly three previous decades of research on this subject in other species. Primary among these advances was both the characterization of human hair keratins, as well as the hair keratin associated proteins (KAPs). This review describes the currently known human KAP families, their genomic organization, and their characteristics of expression. Furthermore, this report delves into further aspects, such as polymorphic variations in human KAP genes, the role that KAP proteins might play in hereditary hair diseases, as well as their modulation in several different transgenic mouse models displaying hair abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Rogers
- Section of Normal and Neoplastic Epidermal Differentiation, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
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Johns SA, Soullier S, Rashbass P, Cunliffe VT. Foxn1 is required for tissue assembly and desmosomal cadherin expression in the hair shaft. Dev Dyn 2005; 232:1062-8. [PMID: 15739220 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The mouse nude mutation inactivates the gene encoding the Foxn1 transcription factor, causing defective hair morphogenesis. Here, we show for the first time that Foxn1 is required for proper assembly of the hair medulla, and we identify Foxn1-regulated genes by transcript profiling. One such gene encodes the desmosomal cadherin, Dsc2. Significantly, Foxn1-dependent Dsc2 expression is restricted to the hair medulla, and within these cells, Dsc2 protein is predominantly localized to specialized adhesion junctions between the cortex and the medulla. Our results reveal Foxn1 as an essential regulator of tissue assembly in the growing hair shaft and implicate Dsc2 as a downstream effector of this activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Johns
- Centre for Developmental Genetics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, United Kingdom
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Mecklenburg L, Paus R, Halata Z, Bechtold LS, Fleckman P, Sundberg JP. FOXN1 is critical for onycholemmal terminal differentiation in nude (Foxn1) mice. J Invest Dermatol 2005; 123:1001-11. [PMID: 15610506 DOI: 10.1111/j.0022-202x.2004.23442.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Nude mice have a mutation in the transcription factor Foxn1(nu), resulting in downregulation of hair keratins. Although hair follicles develop normally, the hair fibers become structurally weak, curl, and break off at the surface. Nails in nude mice are deformed, based on alterations of the onychocyte differentiation process. Elemental microanalysis of the nail plate reveals marked decreases in sulfur concentrations in the nude mouse nail plates. Immunohistochemistry shows a lack of keratin 1 expression in terminally differentiating keratinocytes of the nail matrix. Instead, the typical differentiation process of the matrix is altered toward an epidermis-like differentiation pattern, comprising the production of filaggrin-containing keratohyalin granules in cells resembling those of the stratum granulosum, which are never observed in normally haired mice. The nail plate has diffuse basophilic stippling. It is thinner than normal, weak, and in most Foxn1(nu)/Foxn1(nu) mice breaks where it separates from the hyponychium. These studies indicate that the Foxn1(nu) mutated gene has effects beyond downregulating keratin expression, including changes in filaggrin expression, and is critical for normal onycholemmal differentiation. The nails of nude mice provide new insights into the molecular controls of onychocyte differentiation, and they offer a useful model to investigate the pathogenesis of nail hypergranulosis, a common feature in human nail diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Mecklenburg
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Abstract
Substantial progress has been made regarding the elucidation of differentiation processes of the human hair follicle. This review first describes the genomic organization of the human hair keratin gene family and the complex expression characteristics of hair keratins in the hair-forming compartment. Sections describe the role and fate of hair keratins in the diseased hair follicle, particularly hereditary disorders and hair follicle-derived tumors. Also included is a report on the actual state of knowledge concerning the regulation of hair keratin expression. In the second part of this review, essentially the same principles are applied to outline more recent and, thus, occasionally fewer data on specialized epithelial keratins expressed in various tissue constituents of the external sheaths and the companion layer of the follicle. A closing outlook highlights issues that need to be explored further to deepen our insight into the biology and genetics of the hair follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lutz Langbein
- Division of Cell Biology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
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Janes SM, Ofstad TA, Campbell DH, Watt FM, Prowse DM. Transient activation of FOXN1 in keratinocytes induces a transcriptional programme that promotes terminal differentiation: contrasting roles of FOXN1 and Akt. J Cell Sci 2004; 117:4157-68. [PMID: 15316080 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.01302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The forkhead transcription factor FOXN1 is required for normal cutaneous and thymic epithelial development. Mutations in FOXN1 give rise to the nude phenotype in mice, rats and man. However, the genes that are regulated by FOXN1 are unknown. To investigate FOXN1 function we expressed an inducible form of the protein, FOXN1ER, that is activated by 4-hydroxytamoxifen in primary human epidermal keratinocytes. Transient activation of FOXN1 decreased the proportion of keratinocytes that formed actively growing clones attributable to stem cell founders and increased the number of abortive clones, without inducing apoptosis. Within 24 hours the majority of cells had initiated terminal differentiation, as assessed by involucrin expression. We performed a cDNA microarray experiment to analyse changes in the transcription of approximately 6000 genes. Following FOXN1 activation we detected increases of two fold or greater in the RNA levels of over 30 genes. Genes promoting growth arrest, survival and differentiation featured prominently and markers of early events in keratinocyte differentiation were also detected. Since one of the induced genes was Akt we investigated whether Akt played a role in terminal differentiation. Activation of PI 3-kinase but not Akt was necessary for FOXN1-induced differentiation. In reconstituted epidermis FOXN1 promoted early stages of terminal differentiation whereas Akt activation was sufficient to induce late stages, including formation of the cornified layers. These results establish a role for FOXN1 in initiation of terminal differentiation and implicate Akt in subsequent events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam M Janes
- Keratinocyte Laboratory, Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, 44 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PX, UK
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Cribier B, Peltre B, Grosshans E, Langbein L, Schweizer J. On the regulation of hair keratin expression: lessons from studies in pilomatricomas. J Invest Dermatol 2004; 122:1078-83. [PMID: 15140206 DOI: 10.1111/j.0022-202x.2004.22513.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Human hair follicles exhibit a complex pattern of sequential hair keratin expression in the hair matrix, cuticle, and cortex. In pilomatricomas, that is, benign skin tumors thought to arise from germinative matrix cells of the hair follicle and retaining morphological signs of cortical differentiation, this differential hair keratin pattern has been shown to be faithfully preserved in the lower and upper transitional cell compartments of the tumors. Here we show that also the co-expression of hair keratin hHa5 with its regulatory nuclear homeoprotein HOXC13 in matrix cells of the hair follicle is maintained in lower transitional cells of pilomatricomas. In contrast, the nuclear co-expression of LEF1 and beta-catenin, which in the hair follicle has been postulated to initiate cortex cell differentiation through the induction of hair keratin hHa1 expression (Merill et al, Genes Dev 15:1688-1705, 2001), is not preserved in upper transitional cells of pilomatricomas. Although these cells correctly express hHa1, they are completely devoid of LEF1 and nuclear LEF1/beta-catenin co-expression is shifted to a subpopulation of hair keratin-free basaloid cells of the tumors. These data imply that unlike the normal hair follicle, cortical differentiation in pilomatricomas is not under the control of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway.
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