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Ghézali G, Ribot J, Curry N, Pillet LE, Boutet-Porretta F, Mozheiko D, Calvo CF, Ezan P, Perfettini I, Lecoin L, Janel S, Zapata J, Escartin C, Etienne-Manneville S, Kaminski CF, Rouach N. Connexin 30 locally controls actin cytoskeleton and mechanical remodeling in motile astrocytes. Glia 2024; 72:1915-1929. [PMID: 38982826 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
During brain maturation, astrocytes establish complex morphologies unveiling intense structural plasticity. Connexin 30 (Cx30), a gap-junction channel-forming protein expressed postnatally, dynamically regulates during development astrocyte morphological properties by controlling ramification and extension of fine processes. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. Here, we found in vitro that Cx30 interacts with the actin cytoskeleton in astrocytes and inhibits its structural reorganization and dynamics during cell migration. This translates into an alteration of local physical surface properties, as assessed by correlative imaging using stimulated emission depletion (STED) super resolution imaging and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Specifically, Cx30 impaired astrocyte cell surface topology and cortical stiffness in motile astrocytes. As Cx30 alters actin organization, dynamics, and membrane physical properties, we assessed whether it controls astrocyte migration. We found that Cx30 reduced persistence and directionality of migrating astrocytes. Altogether, these data reveal Cx30 as a brake for astrocyte structural and mechanical plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégory Ghézali
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Doctoral School N° 158, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Ribot
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Nathan Curry
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Laure-Elise Pillet
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Doctoral School N°562, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Flora Boutet-Porretta
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Doctoral School N° 158, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Daria Mozheiko
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Doctoral School N° 158, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Charles-Félix Calvo
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Pascal Ezan
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Perfettini
- Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS, Cell Polarity, Migration and Cancer Unit, Paris, France
| | - Laure Lecoin
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Sébastien Janel
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, CIIL - Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Jonathan Zapata
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Carole Escartin
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, MIRCen, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | | | - Clemens F Kaminski
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nathalie Rouach
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Labex Memolife, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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2
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Kong C, Yin G, Wang X, Sun Y. In Utero Gene Therapy and its Application in Genetic Hearing Loss. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024:e2400193. [PMID: 39007241 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202400193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
For monogenic genetic diseases, in utero gene therapy (IUGT) shows the potential for early prevention against irreversible and lethal pathological changes. Moreover, animal models have also demonstrated the effectiveness of IUGT in the treatment of coagulation disorders, hemoglobinopathies, neurogenetic disorders, and metabolic and pulmonary diseases. For major alpha thalassemia and severe osteogenesis imperfecta, in utero stem cell transplantation has entered the phase I clinical trial stage. Within the realm of the inner ear, genetic hearing loss significantly hampers speech, cognitive, and intellectual development in children. Nowadays, gene therapies offer substantial promise for deafness, with the success of clinical trials in autosomal recessive deafness 9 using AAV-OTOF gene therapy. However, the majority of genetic mutations that cause deafness affect the development of cochlear structures before the birth of fetuses. Thus, gene therapy before alterations in cochlear structure leading to hearing loss has promising applications. In this review, addressing advances in various fields of IUGT, the progress, and application of IUGT in the treatment of genetic hearing loss are focused, in particular its implementation methods and unique advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Kong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ge Yin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
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3
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Falahatdoost S, Prawer YDJ, Peng D, Chambers A, Zhan H, Pope L, Stacey A, Ahnood A, Al Hashem HN, De León SE, Garrett DJ, Fox K, Clark MB, Ibbotson MR, Prawer S, Tong W. Control of Neuronal Survival and Development Using Conductive Diamond. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:4361-4374. [PMID: 38232177 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c14680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
This study demonstrates the control of neuronal survival and development using nitrogen-doped ultrananocrystalline diamond (N-UNCD). We highlight the role of N-UNCD in regulating neuronal activity via near-infrared illumination, demonstrating the generation of stable photocurrents that enhance neuronal survival and neurite outgrowth and foster a more active, synchronized neuronal network. Whole transcriptome RNA sequencing reveals that diamond substrates improve cellular-substrate interaction by upregulating extracellular matrix and gap junction-related genes. Our findings underscore the potential of conductive diamond as a robust and biocompatible platform for noninvasive and effective neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Falahatdoost
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Yair D J Prawer
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Danli Peng
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Andre Chambers
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Hualin Zhan
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia
| | - Leon Pope
- School of Engineering, STEM College, The RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Alastair Stacey
- School of Science, STEM College, The RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Arman Ahnood
- School of Engineering, The RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Hassan N Al Hashem
- School of Engineering, The RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Sorel E De León
- School of Engineering, The RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - David J Garrett
- School of Engineering, The RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Kate Fox
- School of Engineering, The RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Michael B Clark
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Michael R Ibbotson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Steven Prawer
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Wei Tong
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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4
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Aldè M, Cantarella G, Zanetti D, Pignataro L, La Mantia I, Maiolino L, Ferlito S, Di Mauro P, Cocuzza S, Lechien JR, Iannella G, Simon F, Maniaci A. Autosomal Dominant Non-Syndromic Hearing Loss (DFNA): A Comprehensive Narrative Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1616. [PMID: 37371710 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss (HL) typically occurs when only one dominant allele within the disease gene is sufficient to express the phenotype. Therefore, most patients diagnosed with autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL have a hearing-impaired parent, although de novo mutations should be considered in all cases of negative family history. To date, more than 50 genes and 80 loci have been identified for autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL. DFNA22 (MYO6 gene), DFNA8/12 (TECTA gene), DFNA20/26 (ACTG1 gene), DFNA6/14/38 (WFS1 gene), DFNA15 (POU4F3 gene), DFNA2A (KCNQ4 gene), and DFNA10 (EYA4 gene) are some of the most common forms of autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL. The characteristics of autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL are heterogenous. However, in most cases, HL tends to be bilateral, post-lingual in onset (childhood to early adulthood), high-frequency (sloping audiometric configuration), progressive, and variable in severity (mild to profound degree). DFNA1 (DIAPH1 gene) and DFNA6/14/38 (WFS1 gene) are the most common forms of autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL affecting low frequencies, while DFNA16 (unknown gene) is characterized by fluctuating HL. A long audiological follow-up is of paramount importance to identify hearing threshold deteriorations early and ensure prompt treatment with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Aldè
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Giovanna Cantarella
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Zanetti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Pignataro
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Ignazio La Mantia
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Luigi Maiolino
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Ferlito
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Paola Di Mauro
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cocuzza
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Jérôme René Lechien
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Giannicola Iannella
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Francois Simon
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Antonino Maniaci
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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5
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Huang H, Chen M, Liu X, Xiong X, Zhou L, Su Z, Lu Y, Liang B. A novel variant in the GJB6 gene in a large Chinese family with a unique phenotype of Clouston syndrome. Front Med 2023; 17:330-338. [PMID: 36645631 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-022-0933-2] [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: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Clouston syndrome (OMIM #129500), also known as hidrotic ectodermal dysplasia type 2, is a rare autosomal dominant skin disorder. To date, four mutations in the GJB6 gene, G11R, V37E, A88V, and D50N, have been confirmed to cause this condition. In previous studies, the focus has been mainly on gene sequencing, and there has been a lack of research on clinical manifestations and pathogenesis. To confirm the diagnosis of this pedigree at the molecular level and summarize and analyse the clinical phenotype of patients and to provide a basis for further study of the pathogenesis of the disease, we performed whole-exome and Sanger sequencing on a large Chinese Clouston syndrome pedigree. Detailed clinical examination included histopathology, hair microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. We found a novel heterozygous missense variant (c.134G>C:p.G45A) for Clouston syndrome. We identified a new clinical phenotype involving all nail needling pain in all patients and found a special honeycomb hole structure in the patients' hair under scanning electron microscopy. Our data reveal that a novel variant (c.134G>C:p.G45A) plays a likely pathogenic role in this pedigree and highlight that genetic testing is necessary for the diagnosis of Clouston syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hequn Huang
- Institute of Dermatology and Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230000, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Mengyun Chen
- Institute of Dermatology and Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230000, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Huai'an District Skin Disease Prevention and Treatment Hospital, Huai'an, 223000, China
| | - Xixi Xiong
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Lanbo Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Zhonglan Su
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China.
| | - Bo Liang
- Institute of Dermatology and Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China.
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230000, China.
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, 230000, China.
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China.
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6
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Defourny J, Thiry M. Recent insights into gap junction biogenesis in the cochlea. Dev Dyn 2023; 252:239-246. [PMID: 36106826 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In the cochlea, connexin 26 (Cx26) and connexin 30 (Cx30) co-assemble into two types of homomeric and heteromeric gap junctions between adjacent non-sensory epithelial cells. These channels provide a mechanical coupling between connected cells, and their activity is critical to maintain cochlear homeostasis. Many of the mutations in GJB2 or GJB6, which encode Cx26 and Cx30 in humans, impair the formation of membrane channels and cause autosomal syndromic and non-syndromic hearing loss. Thus, deciphering the connexin trafficking pathways in situ should represent a major step forward in understanding the pathogenic significance of many of these mutations. A growing body of evidence now suggests that Cx26/Cx30 heteromeric and Cx30 homomeric channels display distinct assembly mechanisms. Here, we review the most recent advances that have been made toward unraveling the biogenesis and stability of these gap junctions in the cochlea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Defourny
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marc Thiry
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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7
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Liu W, Rask-Andersen H. GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts in the human cochlea: A study using RNAscope, confocal, and super-resolution structured illumination microscopy. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:973646. [PMID: 36204137 PMCID: PMC9530750 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.973646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gap junction (GJ) proteins, connexin26 and 30, are highly prevalent in the human cochlea (HC), where they are involved in transcellular signaling, metabolic supply, and fluid homeostasis. Their genes, GJB2 and GJB6, are both located at the DFNB1 locus on chromosome 13q12. Mutations in GJB2 may cause mild to profound non-syndromic deafness. Here, we analyzed for the first time the various expressions of GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts in the different cell networks in the HC using the RNAscope technique. Materials and methods Archival paraformaldehyde-fixed sections of surgically obtained HC were used to label single mRNA oligonucleotides using the sensitive multiplex RNAscope® technique with fluorescent-tagged probes. Positive and negative controls also included the localization of ATP1A1, ATP1A2, and KCNJ10 gene transcripts in order to validate the specificity of labeling. Results Confocal and super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM) detected single gene transcripts as brightly stained puncta. The GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts were distributed in the epithelial and connective tissue systems in all three cochlear turns. The largest number of GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts was in the outer sulcus, spiral ligament, and stria vascularis (SV). Oligonucleotides were present in the supporting cells of the organ of Corti (OC), spiral limbus fibrocytes, and the floor of the scala vestibuli. Multiplex gene data suggest that cells in the cochlear lateral wall contain either GJB2 or GJB6 gene transcripts or both. The GJB6, but not GJB2, gene transcripts were found in the intermediate cells but none were found in the marginal cells. There were no GJB2 or GJB6 gene transcripts found in the hair cells and only a few in the spiral ganglion cells. Conclusion Both GJB2 and GJB6 mRNA gene transcripts were localized in cells in the adult HC using RNAscope®in situ hybridization (ISH) and high resolution microscopy. Generally, GJB6 dominated over GJB2, except in the basal cells. Results suggest that cells may contain either GJB2 or GJB6 gene transcripts or both. This may be consistent with specialized GJ plaques having separate channel permeability and gating properties. A reduction in the number of GJB2 gene transcripts was found in the basal turn. Such information may be useful for future gene therapy.
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Jang MW, Lim J, Park MG, Lee JH, Lee CJ. Active role of glia-like supporting cells in the organ of Corti: Membrane proteins and their roles in hearing. Glia 2022; 70:1799-1825. [PMID: 35713516 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The organ of Corti, located in the cochlea in the inner ear, is one of the major sensory organs involved in hearing. The organ of Corti consists of hair cells, glia-like supporting cells, and the cochlear nerve, which work in harmony to receive sound from the outer ear and transmit auditory signals to the cochlear nucleus in the auditory ascending pathway. In this process, maintenance of the endocochlear potential, with a high potassium gradient and clearance of electrolytes and biochemicals in the inner ear, is critical for normal sound transduction. There is an emerging need for a thorough understanding of each cell type involved in this process to understand the sophisticated mechanisms of the organ of Corti. Hair cells have long been thought to be active, playing a primary role in the cochlea in actively detecting and transmitting signals. In contrast, supporting cells are thought to be silent and function to support hair cells. However, growing lines of evidence regarding the membrane proteins that mediate ionic movement in supporting cells have demonstrated that supporting cells are not silent, but actively play important roles in normal signal transduction. In this review, we summarize studies that characterize diverse membrane proteins according to the supporting cell subtypes involved in cochlear physiology and hearing. This review contributes to a better understanding of supporting cell functions and facilitates the development of potential therapeutic tools for hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwoo Wendy Jang
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwoon Lim
- Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,IBS School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Mingu Gordon Park
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hun Lee
- Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - C Justin Lee
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,IBS School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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9
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Kakar MU, Akram M, Zubair Mehboob M, Younus M, Bilal M, Waqas A, Nazir A, Shafi M, Umair M, Ahmad S, Rafeeq MM. Identification of homozygous missense variant in SIX5 gene underlying recessive nonsyndromic hearing impairment. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268078. [PMID: 35709191 PMCID: PMC9202841 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hearing impairment (HI) is a heterogeneous condition that affects many individuals globally with different age groups. HI is a genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous disorder. Over the last several years, many genes/loci causing rare autosomal recessive and dominant forms of hearing impairments have been identified, involved in various aspects of ear development. In the current study, two affected individuals of a consanguineous family exhibiting autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing impairment (AR-NSHI) were clinically and genetically characterized. The single affected individual (IV-2) of the family was subjected to whole-exome sequencing (WES) accompanied by traditional Sanger sequencing. Clinical examinations using air conduction audiograms of both the affected individuals showed profound hearing loss across all frequencies. WES revealed a homozygous missense variant (c.44G>C) in the SIX5 gene located on chromosome 19q13.32. We report the first case of autosomal recessive NSHI due to a biallelic missense variant in the SIX5 gene. This report further supports the evidence that the SIX5 variant might cause profound HI and supports its vital role in auditory function. Identification of novel candidate genes might help in application of future gene therapy strategies that may be implemented for NSHI, such as gene replacement using cDNA, gene silencing using RNA interference, and gene editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohib Ullah Kakar
- Faculty of Marine Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences (LUAWMS), Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Akram
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Science, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Zubair Mehboob
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interaction, College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, China
| | - Muhammad Younus
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Ahmed Waqas
- Division of Science and Technology, Department of Zoology, University of Education Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Amina Nazir
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Province, China
| | - Muhammad Shafi
- Faculty of Marine Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences (LUAWMS), Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan
- * E-mail: (MS); (MU)
| | - Muhammad Umair
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Science, University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, Pakistan
- * E-mail: (MS); (MU)
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences (LUAWMS), Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Misbahuddin M. Rafeeq
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Rabigh King Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah, KSA
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10
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Lukowicz-Bedford RM, Farnsworth DR, Miller AC. Connexinplexity: the spatial and temporal expression of connexin genes during vertebrate organogenesis. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2022; 12:jkac062. [PMID: 35325106 PMCID: PMC9073686 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkac062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Animal development requires coordinated communication between cells. The Connexin family of proteins is a major contributor to intercellular communication in vertebrates by forming gap junction channels that facilitate the movement of ions, small molecules, and metabolites between cells. Additionally, individual hemichannels can provide a conduit to the extracellular space for paracrine and autocrine signaling. Connexin-mediated communication is widely used in epithelial, neural, and vascular development and homeostasis, and most tissues likely use this form of communication. In fact, Connexin disruptions are of major clinical significance contributing to disorders developing from all major germ layers. Despite the fact that Connexins serve as an essential mode of cellular communication, the temporal and cell-type-specific expression patterns of connexin genes remain unknown in vertebrates. A major challenge is the large and complex connexin gene family. To overcome this barrier, we determined the expression of all connexins in zebrafish using single-cell RNA-sequencing of entire animals across several stages of organogenesis. Our analysis of expression patterns has revealed that few connexins are broadly expressed, but rather, most are expressed in tissue- or cell-type-specific patterns. Additionally, most tissues possess a unique combinatorial signature of connexin expression with dynamic temporal changes across the organism, tissue, and cell. Our analysis has identified new patterns for well-known connexins and assigned spatial and temporal expression to genes with no-existing information. We provide a field guide relating zebrafish and human connexin genes as a critical step toward understanding how Connexins contribute to cellular communication and development throughout vertebrate organogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dylan R Farnsworth
- Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Adam C Miller
- Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
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11
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Connexin Mutations and Hereditary Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084255. [PMID: 35457072 PMCID: PMC9027513 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited diseases caused by connexin mutations are found in multiple organs and include hereditary deafness, congenital cataract, congenital heart diseases, hereditary skin diseases, and X-linked Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT1X). A large number of knockout and knock-in animal models have been used to study the pathology and pathogenesis of diseases of different organs. Because the structures of different connexins are highly homologous and the functions of gap junctions formed by these connexins are similar, connexin-related hereditary diseases may share the same pathogenic mechanism. Here, we analyze the similarities and differences of the pathology and pathogenesis in animal models and find that connexin mutations in gap junction genes expressed in the ear, eye, heart, skin, and peripheral nerves can affect cellular proliferation and differentiation of corresponding organs. Additionally, some dominant mutations (e.g., Cx43 p.Gly60Ser, Cx32 p.Arg75Trp, Cx32 p.Asn175Asp, and Cx32 p.Arg142Trp) are identified as gain-of-function variants in vivo, which may play a vital role in the onset of dominant inherited diseases. Specifically, patients with these dominant mutations receive no benefits from gene therapy. Finally, the complete loss of gap junctional function or altered channel function including permeability (ions, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), Ca2+, glucose, miRNA) and electric activity are also identified in vivo or in vitro.
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12
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Cai X, Gao C, Cao M, Su B, Liu X, Wang B, Li C. Genome-wide characterization of gap junction (connexins and pannexins) genes in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.): evolution and immune response following Vibrio anguillarum infection. Gene 2022; 809:146032. [PMID: 34673208 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.146032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction (GJ), a special intercellular junction between different cell types, directly connects the cytoplasm of adjacent cells, allows various molecules, ions and electrical impulses to pass through the intercellular regulatory gate, and plays vital roles in response to bacterial infection. Up to date, the information about the GJ in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.) is still limited. In current study, 43 gap junction genes were identified in turbot, phylogeny analysis suggested that gap junctions from turbot and other species were clustered into six groups, GJA, GJB, GJC, GJD, GJE and PANX, and turbot GJs together with respective GJs from Japanese flounder, half-smooth tongue sole and large yellow croaker, sharing same ancestors. In addition, these 43 GJ genes distributed in different chromosomes unevenly. According to gene structure and domain analysis, these genes (in GJA-GJE group) were highly conserved in that most of them contain the transmembrane area, connexin domain (CNX) and cysteine-rich domain (connexin CCC), while PANXs contain Pfam Innexin. Although only one tandem duplication was identified in turbot gap junction gene, 235 pairs of segmental duplications were identified in the turbot genome. To further investigate their evolutionary relationships, Ka/Ks was calculated, and results showed that most ratios were lower than 1, indicating they had undergone negative selection. Finally, expression analysis showed that gap junction genes were widely distributed in turbot tissues and significantly regulated after Vibrio anguillarum infection. Taken together, our research could provide valuable information for further exploration of the function of gap junction genes in teleost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Cai
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Chengbin Gao
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Min Cao
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Baofeng Su
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, United States
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Beibei Wang
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Chao Li
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China.
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13
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Taukulis IA, Olszewski RT, Korrapati S, Fernandez KA, Boger ET, Fitzgerald TS, Morell RJ, Cunningham LL, Hoa M. Single-Cell RNA-Seq of Cisplatin-Treated Adult Stria Vascularis Identifies Cell Type-Specific Regulatory Networks and Novel Therapeutic Gene Targets. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:718241. [PMID: 34566577 PMCID: PMC8458580 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.718241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocochlear potential (EP) generated by the stria vascularis (SV) is necessary for hair cell mechanotransduction in the mammalian cochlea. We sought to create a model of EP dysfunction for the purposes of transcriptional analysis and treatment testing. By administering a single dose of cisplatin, a commonly prescribed cancer treatment drug with ototoxic side effects, to the adult mouse, we acutely disrupt EP generation. By combining these data with single cell RNA-sequencing findings, we identify transcriptional changes induced by cisplatin exposure, and by extension transcriptional changes accompanying EP reduction, in the major cell types of the SV. We use these data to identify gene regulatory networks unique to cisplatin treated SV, as well as the differentially expressed and druggable gene targets within those networks. Our results reconstruct transcriptional responses that occur in gene expression on the cellular level while identifying possible targets for interventions not only in cisplatin ototoxicity but also in EP dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A. Taukulis
- Auditory Development and Restoration Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rafal T. Olszewski
- Auditory Development and Restoration Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Soumya Korrapati
- Auditory Development and Restoration Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Katharine A. Fernandez
- Laboratory of Hearing Biology and Therapeutics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Erich T. Boger
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Tracy S. Fitzgerald
- Mouse Auditory Testing Core Facility, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Robert J. Morell
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Lisa L. Cunningham
- Laboratory of Hearing Biology and Therapeutics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Michael Hoa
- Auditory Development and Restoration Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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14
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Jones ME, Dupuy E, Luu M. Alopecia, nail dystrophy, and palmoplantar keratoderma in a 7-year-old girl. Pediatr Dermatol 2021; 38:1327-1328. [PMID: 34750880 DOI: 10.1111/pde.14761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Madison E Jones
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Minnelly Luu
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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15
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Gap Junction Channelopathies and Calmodulinopathies. Do Disease-Causing Calmodulin Mutants Affect Direct Cell-Cell Communication? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179169. [PMID: 34502077 PMCID: PMC8431743 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179169] [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: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The cloning of connexins cDNA opened the way to the field of gap junction channelopathies. Thus far, at least 35 genetic diseases, resulting from mutations of 11 different connexin genes, are known to cause numerous structural and functional defects in the central and peripheral nervous system as well as in the heart, skin, eyes, teeth, ears, bone, hair, nails and lymphatic system. While all of these diseases are due to connexin mutations, minimal attention has been paid to the potential diseases of cell–cell communication caused by mutations of Cx-associated molecules. An important Cx accessory protein is calmodulin (CaM), which is the major regulator of gap junction channel gating and a molecule relevant to gap junction formation. Recently, diseases caused by CaM mutations (calmodulinopathies) have been identified, but thus far calmodulinopathy studies have not considered the potential effect of CaM mutations on gap junction function. The major goal of this review is to raise awareness on the likely role of CaM mutations in defects of gap junction mediated cell communication. Our studies have demonstrated that certain CaM mutants affect gap junction channel gating or expression, so it would not be surprising to learn that CaM mutations known to cause diseases also affect cell communication mediated by gap junction channels.
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16
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Defourny J, Audouard C, Davy A, Thiry M. Efnb2 haploinsufficiency induces early gap junction plaque disassembly and endocytosis in the cochlea. Brain Res Bull 2021; 174:153-160. [PMID: 34139316 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Chromosome 13q deletions encompassing EFNB2, which encodes the transmembrane protein ephrin-B2, are likely to cause syndromic forms of sensorineural hearing loss of unclear origin. Thus, unravelling the pathogenic mechanisms could help to improve therapeutic strategies. In the cochlea, adjacent non-sensory epithelial cells are connected via gap junction channels, the activity of which is critical to maintain cochlear homeostasis. Here we show that ephrin-B2 promotes the assembly of connexin 30 (Cx30) gap junction plaques (GJPs) between adjacent non-sensory Deiters' cells. An in situ proximity ligation assay revealed that ephrin-B2 preferentially interacts with Cx30 in the periphery of the GJPs, i.e. where newly synthesized connexin hemichannels accrue to the GJP. Moreover, we observed that heterozygous mice encoding an Efnb2 null allele display excessive clathrin-mediated internalization of Cx30 GJPs in early postnatal stages. Finally, an in vitro organotypic assay revealed that ectopic activation of ephrin-B2 reverse signalling promotes the internalization of Cx30 GJPs. These data argue in favor of a cell-autonomous, Eph receptor-independent role of ephrin-B2 in the assembly of Cx30 GJPs. According to recent observations, early GJP degradation could certainly play a role in the pathogenic process leading to progressive sensorineural hearing loss due to Efnb2/EFNB2 haploinsufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Defourny
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, CHU B36, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Christophe Audouard
- Center for Developmental Biology, Center for Integrative Biology, University of Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 118 route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | - Alice Davy
- Center for Developmental Biology, Center for Integrative Biology, University of Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 118 route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | - Marc Thiry
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, CHU B36, 4000, Liège, Belgium
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17
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Neagu A, Mocanu AI, Bonciu A, Coadă G, Mocanu H. Prevalence of GJB2 gene mutations correlated to presence of clinical and environmental risk factors in the etiology of congenital sensorineural hearing loss of the Romanian population. Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:612. [PMID: 33936269 PMCID: PMC8082587 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Although etiologically heterogeneous at least 50% of all early on-set hearing losses have a genetic cause and of these, the large majority, 75-80% are most probably autosomal recessive and 70% are non-syndromic. The rest of the congenital hearing losses are determined by clinical and environmental factors such as ototoxic medication, prematurity, and complications at birth. During the last decade it became clear that 50-80% of all such afflictions result from mutations in a single gene, GJB2, which encodes the protein Connexin 26. In order to, at least partially clarify this problem, especially in an emerging country such as Romania, where the problem is not studied adequately, we developed a comprehensive study of genetic, clinical and environmental risk factors for congenital hearing loss. The two most common variations of this gene, 35delG and W24X in children with positive diagnosis of bilateral severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss were investigated. A cohort of 34 children (20 female and 14 male), ages between 2 and 10 (mean age 4.62 years), coming from 33 non-related families were evaluated. All cases were diagnosed with severe or profound bilateral congenital SNHL. A statistical comparison of genetic and environmental/clinical prevalence was also attempted since the presence of a genetic disorder cannot rule out the role of other documented risk factors in the etiology of SNHL. The results showed that, 29.4% of cases (10/34) were homozygotic for the 35delG mutation 35delG/35delG), also known as genotype Δ/Δ. 5.88% of cases (2/34) belong to the heterozygotic bi-genic group 35delG/W24X. The clinical factors with high statistical significance for SNHL in a non-genetic group have no significance for genetic SNHL patients. Thus, the present study confirms the relatively high prevalence of the 35delG and W24X mutations in cases of congenital non-syndromic severe of profound bilateral SNHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Neagu
- Department of ENT&HNS, ‘Marie S. Curie’ Emergency Children Hospital Bucharest, 041434 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adela-Ioana Mocanu
- Department of ENT&HNS, Bucharest Emergency University Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Bonciu
- Department of ENT&HNS, ‘Dr. Carol Davila’ Central Military Emergency University Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gabriella Coadă
- Department of ENT&HNS, ‘Sfânta Maria’ Clinical Hospital, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Horia Mocanu
- Department of ENT&HNS, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Titu Maiorescu’ University, 031593 Bucharest, Romania
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18
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Association Analysis of Candidate Gene Polymorphisms and Audiometric Measures of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Young Musicians. Otol Neurotol 2021; 41:e538-e547. [PMID: 32176153 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000002615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to investigate the association between candidate genetic variants and audiometric measures of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in young musicians. METHODS The study analyzed a database by Phillips et al. (Feasibility of a bilateral 4000-6000 Hz notch as a phenotype for genetic association analysis. Int J Audiol 2015;54:645-52.) which included behavioral hearing thresholds, distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE), tympanometric, and genetic data of 166 participants meeting the inclusion criteria. Nineteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 13 cochlear genes previously associated with NIHL in factory workers were included in the present investigation. The average hearing threshold at 3000 and 4000 Hz (AHT) and average DPOAE signal to noise ratio (DPOAE SNR) in both ears were calculated. RESULTS The regression analyses showed that two SNPs- one in KCNE1 (rs2070358) and the other in CAT (rs12273124) revealed a statistically significant relationship with DPOAE SNR in both ears. Two SNPs in MYH14 and one in GJB4 revealed a significant association with DPOAE SNR in the left ear. Two SNPs in HSP70, one in CDH23 and one in KCNJ10 showed significant association with DPOAE SNR in the right ear. None of the included SNPs showed association with AHT in both ears. CONCLUSIONS A genetic variant in KCNE1 was associated with the strength of the cochlear amplifier as assessed by DPOAE SNR. Musicians carrying causal genetic variants to NIHL might exhibit changes in their auditory functions early in the lifespan even when most subjects had their hearing thresholds within normal limits. These participants are likely to show the clinical manifestation of NIHL in the future if no preventive measures are applied.
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19
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Aliazami F, Farhud D, Zarif-Yeganeh M, Salehi S, Hosseinipour A, Sasanfar R, Eslami M. Gjb3 Gene Mutations in Non-Syndromic Hearing Loss of Bloch, Kurd, and Turkmen Ethnicities in Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 49:2128-2135. [PMID: 33708733 PMCID: PMC7917519 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v49i11.4730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Hearing loss (HL) is one of the most common heterogeneous congenital disabilities worldwide. Gap junction protein β-3 (GJB3) gene encodes Connexin31 protein (Cx31). The hereditary type of hearing impairment in this gene are known to cause both autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant form. In addition, GJB3 mutations have been involved in sensorineural deafness, erythrokeratodermia variabilis (EKV), and neuropathy diseases. We aimed to investigate GJB3 mutations in people suffering from HL among three different ethnicities of Iranian population (Baloch, Kurd, and Turkmen). Methods: In this descriptive study, 50 GJB2-negative non-syndromic hearing loss (NSHL) Iranian individuals from 3 ethnic groups of Baloch (n=17), Kurd (n =15) and Turkmen (n=18) were enrolled. DNA extractions, PCR, and mutation detection was carried out for the two large deletions of the GJB6, del (GJB6 -D13S1830,) and del (GJB6 -D13S1854) followed by direct DNA sequencing method for the GJB3. Results: DNA sequencing of GJB3 was shown a missense heterozygous mutation rs199689484 (NM_024009.3) GJB3: c.340G>A (p.Ala114Thr) in a Baloch patient, and a polymorphism rs35983826 (NM_024009.3) GJB3: c.798C>T (p.Asn266=) in a Turkman patient, in coding region of the GJB3. We did not detect del (GJB6 -D13S1830) and del (GJB6 -D13S1854) among these three ethnicities in Iran. Conclusion: Deafness is a heterogeneous disorder. Specific genes and mutations contribute to hearing loss that varies from locus to locus as well as from population to population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnoush Aliazami
- Department of Genetics, Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.,Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Dariush Farhud
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences, Iranian Academy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marjan Zarif-Yeganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Siamak Salehi
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Azam Hosseinipour
- Department of Exceptional Children, Ministry of Education and Training of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roxana Sasanfar
- Psychiatric and Neurodevelopmental Genetic Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Maryam Eslami
- Department of Genetics, Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.,Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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20
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Defourny J, Thiry M. Tricellular adherens junctions provide a cell surface delivery platform for connexin 26/30 oligomers in the cochlea. Hear Res 2020; 400:108137. [PMID: 33291008 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.108137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the cochlea, connexins 26 (Cx26) and 30 (Cx30) largely co-assemble into heteromeric gap junctions, which connect adjacent non-sensory epithelial cells. These channels are believed to ensure the rapid removal of K+ away from the base of sensory hair cells, resulting in K+ recycling back to the endolymph to maintain cochlear homeostasis. Many of the mutations in GJB2 and GJB6, which encode CX26 and CX30, impair the formation of membrane channels and cause autosomal hearing loss in humans. Although recent advances have been made, several important questions remain about connexin trafficking and gap junction biogenesis. Here we show that tricellular adherens junctions present at the crossroad between adjacent gap junction plaques, provide an unexpected cell surface delivery platform for Cx26/Cx30 oligomers. Using an in situ proximity ligation assay, we detected the presence of non-junctional Cx26/Cx30 oligomers within lipid raft-enriched tricellular junction sites. In addition, we observed that cadherin homophilic interactions are critically involved in microtubule-mediated trafficking of Cx26/Cx30 oligomers to the cell surface. Overall, our results unveil an unexpected role for tricellular junctions in the trafficking and assembly of membrane channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Defourny
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, C.H.U B36, B-4000 Liège, Belgium.
| | - Marc Thiry
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, C.H.U B36, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
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21
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Vona B, Doll J, Hofrichter MAH, Haaf T, Varshney GK. Small fish, big prospects: using zebrafish to unravel the mechanisms of hereditary hearing loss. Hear Res 2020; 397:107906. [PMID: 32063424 PMCID: PMC7415493 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, advancements in high-throughput sequencing have greatly enhanced our knowledge of the mutational signatures responsible for hereditary hearing loss. In its present state, the field has a largely uncensored view of protein coding changes in a growing number of genes that have been associated with hereditary hearing loss, and many more that have been proposed as candidate genes. Sequencing data can now be generated using methods that have become widespread and affordable. The greatest hurdles facing the field concern functional validation of uncharacterized genes and rapid application to human diseases, including hearing and balance disorders. To date, over 30 hearing-related disease models exist in zebrafish. New genome editing technologies, including CRISPR/Cas9 will accelerate the functional validation of hearing loss genes and variants in zebrafish. Here, we discuss current progress in the field and recent advances in genome editing approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Vona
- Department of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Julia Doll
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Haaf
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Gaurav K Varshney
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.
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22
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Adadey SM, Wonkam-Tingang E, Twumasi Aboagye E, Nayo-Gyan DW, Boatemaa Ansong M, Quaye O, Awandare GA, Wonkam A. Connexin Genes Variants Associated with Non-Syndromic Hearing Impairment: A Systematic Review of the Global Burden. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:life10110258. [PMID: 33126609 PMCID: PMC7693846 DOI: 10.3390/life10110258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in connexins are the most common causes of hearing impairment (HI) in many populations. Our aim was to review the global burden of pathogenic and likely pathogenic (PLP) variants in connexin genes associated with HI. We conducted a systematic review of the literature based on targeted inclusion/exclusion criteria of publications from 1997 to 2020. The databases used were PubMed, Scopus, Africa-Wide Information, and Web of Science. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO, the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews, with the registration number “CRD42020169697”. The data extracted were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 25 (IBM, Armonk, New York, United States). A total of 571 independent studies were retrieved and considered for data extraction with the majority of studies (47.8% (n = 289)) done in Asia. Targeted sequencing was found to be the most common technique used in investigating connexin gene mutations. We identified seven connexin genes that were associated with HI, and GJB2 (520/571 publications) was the most studied among the seven. Excluding PLP in GJB2, GJB6, and GJA1 the other connexin gene variants (thus GJB3, GJB4, GJC3, and GJC1 variants) had conflicting association with HI. Biallelic GJB2 PLP variants were the most common and widespread variants associated with non-syndromic hearing impairment (NSHI) in different global populations but absent in most African populations. The most common GJB2 alleles found to be predominant in specific populations include; p.Gly12ValfsTer2 in Europeans, North Africans, Brazilians, and Americans; p.V37I and p.L79Cfs in Asians; p.W24X in Indians; p.L56Rfs in Americans; and the founder mutation p.R143W in Africans from Ghana, or with putative Ghanaian ancestry. The present review suggests that only GJB2 and GJB3 are recognized and validated HI genes. The findings call for an extensive investigation of the other connexin genes in many populations to elucidate their contributions to HI, in order to improve gene-disease pair curations, globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Mawuli Adadey
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon GA184, Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (S.M.A.); (O.Q.); (G.A.A.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon Accra GA184, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (E.T.A.); (M.B.A.)
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa;
| | - Edmond Wonkam-Tingang
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa;
| | - Elvis Twumasi Aboagye
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon Accra GA184, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (E.T.A.); (M.B.A.)
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa;
| | - Daniel Wonder Nayo-Gyan
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, C. K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, P.O. Box 24, Navrongo 00000, Upper East Region, Ghana;
| | - Maame Boatemaa Ansong
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon Accra GA184, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (E.T.A.); (M.B.A.)
| | - Osbourne Quaye
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon GA184, Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (S.M.A.); (O.Q.); (G.A.A.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon Accra GA184, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (E.T.A.); (M.B.A.)
| | - Gordon A. Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon GA184, Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (S.M.A.); (O.Q.); (G.A.A.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 54, Legon Accra GA184, Greater Accra Region, Ghana; (E.T.A.); (M.B.A.)
| | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-21-4066307
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Zhang L, Wu X, Lin X. Gene therapy for genetic mutations affecting non-sensory cells in the cochlea. Hear Res 2020; 394:107858. [PMID: 31791650 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.107858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Congenital hearing loss (HL) affects about 1 in every 500 infants. Among those affected more than half are caused by genetic mutations. According to the cellular sites affected by mutations in the cochlea, deafness genes could be classified into three major groups: those affecting the function of hair cells and synapses, cochlear supporting cells, and cells in the stria vascularis (SV) as well as in the lateral wall. The second and third groups account for more than half of all sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) cases caused by genetic mutations. Current major treatment options for SNHL patients are hearing aids and cochlear implants (CIs). Hearing aids can only help patients with moderate to severe HL. Resolution of CIs is still improving and these devices are quite expensive especially when lifetime rehabilitation and maintenance costs are included. Tremendous efforts have been made to find novel treatments that are expected to restore hearing with higher-resolution and more natural quality, and to have a significantly lower cost over the lifetime of uses. Gene therapy studies have made impressive progresses in preclinical trials. This review focuses on deafness genes that affect supporting cells and cells in the SV of the cochlea. We will discuss recent progresses and remaining challenges for gene therapies targeting mutations in deafness genes belonging to this category.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA 30322-3030, USA
| | - Xuewen Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China; Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA 30322-3030, USA
| | - Xi Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA 30322-3030, USA.
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24
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Chen B, Xu H, Mi Y, Jiang W, Guo D, Zhang J, Zhao Y, Tang W. Mechanisms of hearing loss and cell death in the cochlea of connexin mutant mice. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 319:C569-C578. [PMID: 32755449 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00483.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in connexin 30 (Cx30) are known to cause severe congenital hearing impairment; however, the mechanism by which Cx30 mediates homeostasis of endocochlear gap junctions is unclear. We used a gene deletion mouse model to explore the mechanisms of Cx30 in preventing hearing loss. Our results suggest that despite severe loss of the auditory brain-stem response and endocochlear potential at postnatal day 18, Cx30-/- mice only show sporadic loss of the outer hair cells. This inconsistency in the time course and severity of hearing and hair cell losses in Cx30-/- mice might be explained, in part, by an increase in reactive oxygen species generation beginning at postnatal day 10. The expression of oxidative stress genes was increased in Cx30-/- mice in the stria vascularis, spiral ligament, and organ of Corti. Furthermore, Cx30 deficiency caused mitochondrial dysfunction at postnatal day 18, as assessed by decreased ATP levels and decreased expression of mitochondrial complex I proteins, especially in the stria vascularis. Proteomic analysis further identified 444 proteins that were dysregulated in Cx30-/- mice, including several that are involved in mitochondria electron transport, ATP synthesis, or ion transport. Additionally, proapoptotic proteins, including Bax, Bad, and caspase-3, were upregulated at postnatal day 18, providing a molecular basis to explain the loss of hearing that occurs before hair cell loss. Therefore, our results are consistent with an environment of oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage in the cochlea of Cx30-/- mice that is coincident with hearing loss but precedes hair cell loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Chen
- Department of Otology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongen Xu
- Center for Precision Medicine of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanfang Mi
- Department of Otolaryngology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Center for Precision Medicine of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dan Guo
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Henan Medical College, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinhui Zhang
- Department of Otology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yulin Zhao
- Department of Otology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenxue Tang
- Center for Precision Medicine of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Otolaryngology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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25
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Gene therapy development in hearing research in China. Gene Ther 2020; 27:349-359. [PMID: 32681137 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-0177-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sensorineural hearing loss, the most common form of hearing impairment, is mainly attributable to genetic mutations or acquired factors, such as aging, noise exposure, and ototoxic drugs. In the field of gene therapy, advances in genetic and physiological studies and profound increases in knowledge regarding the underlying mechanisms have yielded great progress in terms of restoring the auditory function in animal models of deafness. Nonetheless, many challenges associated with the translation from basic research to clinical therapies remain to be overcome before a total restoration of auditory function can be expected. In recent years, Chinese research teams have promoted various developmental efforts in this field, including gene sequencing to identify additional potential loci that cause deafness, studies to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, and research to optimize vectors and delivery routes. In this review, we summarize the state of the field and focus mainly on the progress of gene therapy in animal model studies and the optimization of therapeutic strategies in China.
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Ahmadmehrabi S, Brant J, Epstein DJ, Ruckenstein MJ, Rader DJ. Genetics of Postlingual Sensorineural Hearing Loss. Laryngoscope 2020; 131:401-409. [PMID: 32243624 DOI: 10.1002/lary.28646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Literature and clinical practice around adult-onset hearing loss (HL) has traditionally focused on environmental risk factors, including noise exposure, ototoxic drug exposure, and cardiovascular disease. The most common diagnosis in adult-onset HL is presbycusis. However, the age of onset of presbycusis varies, and patients often describe family history of HL as well as individual variation in progression and severity. In recent years, there has been accumulating evidence of gene-environment interactions underlying adult cases of HL. Susceptibility loci for age-related HL have been identified, and genes related to postlingual nonsyndromic HL continue to be discovered through individual reports and genome-wide association studies. This review will outline main concepts in genetics as related to HL, identify implicated genes, and discuss clinical implications. Laryngoscope, 131:401-409, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Ahmadmehrabi
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jason Brant
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Douglas J Epstein
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael J Ruckenstein
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel J Rader
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Ghézali G, Vasile F, Curry N, Fantham M, Cheung G, Ezan P, Cohen-Salmon M, Kaminski C, Rouach N. Neuronal Activity Drives Astroglial Connexin 30 in Perisynaptic Processes and Shapes Its Functions. Cereb Cortex 2020; 30:753-766. [PMID: 31271200 PMCID: PMC7086174 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhz123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes play key roles in brain functions through dynamic interactions with neurons. One of their typical features is to express high levels of connexins (Cxs), Cx43 and Cx30, the gap junction (GJ)-forming proteins. Cx30 is involved in basic cognitive processes and shapes synaptic and network activities, as shown by recent studies in transgenic animals. Yet it remains unknown whether astroglial Cx30 expression, localization, and functions are endogenously and dynamically regulated by neuronal activity and could therefore play physiological roles in neurotransmission. We here show that neuronal activity increased hippocampal Cx30 protein levels via a posttranslational mechanism regulating lysosomal degradation. Neuronal activity also increased Cx30 protein levels at membranes and perisynaptic processes, as revealed by superresolution imaging. This translated at the functional level in the activation of Cx30 hemichannels and in Cx30-mediated remodeling of astrocyte morphology independently of GJ biochemical coupling. Altogether, these data show activity-dependent dynamics of Cx30 expression, perisynaptic localization, and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégory Ghézali
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
- Doctoral School N° 158, Pierre and Marie Curie University, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Flora Vasile
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
- Doctoral School N°474, Rene Descartes University, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Nathan Curry
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Marcus Fantham
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Giselle Cheung
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Pascal Ezan
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Martine Cohen-Salmon
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Clemens Kaminski
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Nathalie Rouach
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, 75005 Paris, France
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28
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Beckner ME. A roadmap for potassium buffering/dispersion via the glial network of the CNS. Neurochem Int 2020; 136:104727. [PMID: 32194142 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glia use multiple mechanisms to mediate potassium fluxes that support neuronal function. In addition to changes in potassium levels within synapses, these ions are dynamically dispersed through the interstitial parenchyma, perivascular spaces, leptomeninges, cerebrospinal fluid, choroid plexus, blood, vitreous, and endolymph. Neural circuits drive diversity in the glia that buffer potassium and this is reciprocal. Glia mediate buffering of potassium locally at glial-neuronal interfaces and via widespread networked connections. Control of potassium levels in the central nervous system is mediated by mechanisms operating at various loci with complexity that is difficult to model. However, major components of networked glial buffering are known. The role that potassium buffering plays in homeostasis of the CNS underlies some pathologic phenomena. An overview of potassium fluxes in the CNS is relevant for understanding consequences of pathogenic sequence variants in genes that encode potassium buffering proteins. Potassium flows in the CNS are described as follows: K1, the coordinated potassium fluxes within the astrocytic cradle around the synapse; K2, temporary storage of potassium within astrocytic processes in proposed microdomains; K3, potassium fluxes between oligodendrocytes and astrocytes; K4, potassium fluxes between astrocytes; K5, astrocytic potassium flux mediation of neurovasular coupling; K6, CSF delivery of potassium to perivascular spaces with dispersion to interstitial fluid between astrocytic endfeet; K7, astrocytic delivery of potassium to CSF and K8, choroid plexus (modified glia) regulation of potassium at the blood-CSF barrier. Components, mainly potassium channels, transporters, connexins and modulators, and the pathogenic sequence variants of their genes with the associated diseases are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie E Beckner
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA.
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29
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Pandya A, O'Brien A, Kovasala M, Bademci G, Tekin M, Arnos KS. Analyses of del(GJB6-D13S1830) and del(GJB6-D13S1834) deletions in a large cohort with hearing loss: Caveats to interpretation of molecular test results in multiplex families. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1171. [PMID: 32067424 PMCID: PMC7196463 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations involving the closely linked GJB2 and GJB6 at the DFNB1 locus are a common genetic cause of profound congenital hearing loss in many populations. In some deaf GJB2 heterozygotes, a 309 kb deletion involving the GJB6 has been found to be the cause for hearing loss when inherited in trans to a GJB2 mutation. METHODS We screened 2,376 probands from a National DNA Repository of deaf individuals. RESULTS Fifty-two of 318 heterozygous probands with pathogenic GJB2 sequence variants had a GJB6 deletion. Additionally, eight probands had an isolated heterozygous GJB6 deletion that did not explain their hearing loss. In two deaf subjects, including one proband, a homozygous GJB6 deletion was the cause for their hearing loss, a rare occurrence not reported to date. CONCLUSION This study represents the largest US cohort of deaf individuals harboring GJB2 and GJB6 variants, including unique subsets of families with deaf parents. Testing additional members to clarify the phase of GJB2/GJB6 variants in multiplex families was crucial in interpreting clinical significance of the variants in the proband. It highlights the importance of determining the phase of GJB2/GJB6 variants when interpreting molecular test results especially in multiplex families with assortative mating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arti Pandya
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Metabolism, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Alexander O'Brien
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Metabolism, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michael Kovasala
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Metabolism, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Guney Bademci
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Mustafa Tekin
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kathleen S Arnos
- Department of Science, Technology, & Mathematics, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC, USA
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Wu X, Zhang W, Li Y, Lin X. Structure and Function of Cochlear Gap Junctions and Implications for the Translation of Cochlear Gene Therapies. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:529. [PMID: 31827424 PMCID: PMC6892400 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) are ubiquitous membrane proteins that are found throughout vertebrate organs, acting as building blocks of the gap junctions (GJs) known to play vital roles in the normal function of many organs. Mutations in Cx genes (particularly GJB2, which encodes Cx26) cause approximately half of all cases of congenital hearing loss in newborns. Great progress has been made in understanding GJ function and the molecular mechanisms for the role of Cxs in the cochlea. Data reveal that multiple types of Cxs work together to ensure normal development and function of the cochlea. These findings include many aspects not proposed in the classic K+ recycling theory, such as the formation of normal cochlear morphology (e.g., the opening of the tunnel of Corti), the fine-tuning of the innervation of nerve fibers to the hair cells (HCs), the maturation of the ribbon synapses, and the initiation of the endocochlear potential (EP). New data, especially those collected from targeted modification of major Cx genes in the mouse cochlea, have demonstrated that Cx26 plays an essential role in the postnatal maturation of the cochlea. Studies also show that Cx26 and Cx30 assume very different roles in the EP generation, given that only Cx26 is required for normal hearing. This article will review our current understanding of the molecular structure, cellular distribution, and major functions of cochlear GJs. Potential implications of the knowledge of cochlear GJs on the design and implementation of translational studies of cochlear gene therapies for Cx mutations are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuewen Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head-Neck and Surgery, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Wenjuan Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yihui Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Changsha Hospital of Traditional Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Xi Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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31
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Taiber S, Avraham KB. Genetic Therapies for Hearing Loss: Accomplishments and Remaining Challenges. Neurosci Lett 2019; 713:134527. [PMID: 31586696 PMCID: PMC7219656 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
More than 15 years have passed since the official completion of the Human Genome Project. Predominantly due to this project, over one hundred genes have now been linked to hearing loss. Although major advancements have been made in the understanding of underlying pathologies in deafness as a consequence of these gene discoveries, biological treatments for these conditions are still not available and current treatments rely on amplification or prosthetics. A promising approach for developing treatments for genetic hearing loss is the most simplistic one, that of gene therapy. Gene therapy would intuitively be ideal for these conditions since it is directed at the very source of the problem. Recent achievements in this field in laboratory models spike hope and optimism among scientists, patients, and industry, and suggest that this approach can mature into clinical trials in the coming years. Here we review the existing literature and discuss the different aspects of developing gene therapy for genetic hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahar Taiber
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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32
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Mammano F. Inner Ear Connexin Channels: Roles in Development and Maintenance of Cochlear Function. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:a033233. [PMID: 30181354 PMCID: PMC6601451 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a033233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Connexin 26 and connexin 30 are the prevailing isoforms in the epithelial and connective tissue gap junction systems of the developing and mature cochlea. The most frequently encountered variants of the genes that encode these connexins, which are transcriptionally coregulated, determine complete loss of protein function and are the predominant cause of prelingual hereditary deafness. Reducing connexin 26 expression by Cre/loxP recombination in the inner ear of adult mice results in a decreased endocochlear potential, increased hearing thresholds, and loss of >90% of outer hair cells, indicating that this connexin is essential for maintenance of cochlear function. In the developing cochlea, connexins are necessary for intercellular calcium signaling activity. Ribbon synapses and basolateral membrane currents fail to mature in inner hair cells of mice that are born with reduced connexin expression, even though hair cells do not express any connexin. In contrast, pannexin 1, an alternative mediator of intercellular signaling, is dispensable for hearing acquisition and auditory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Mammano
- University of Padova, Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei," Padova 35129, Italy
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Monterotondo 00015, Italy
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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33
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Hernández-Guerra M, Hadjihambi A, Jalan R. Gap junctions in liver disease: Implications for pathogenesis and therapy. J Hepatol 2019; 70:759-772. [PMID: 30599172 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the normal liver, cells interact closely through gap junctions. By providing a pathway for the trafficking of low molecular mass molecules, these channels contribute to tissue homeostasis and maintenance of hepatic function. Thus, dysfunction of gap junctions affects a wide variety of liver processes, such as differentiation, cell death, inflammation and fibrosis. In fact, dysfunctional gap junctions have been implicated, for more than a decade, in cholestatic disease, hepatic cancer and cirrhosis. Additionally, in recent years there is an increasing body of evidence that these channels are also involved in other relevant and prevalent liver pathological processes, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, acute liver injury and portal hypertension. In parallel to these new clinical implications the available data include controversial observations. Thus, a comprehensive overview is required to better understand the functional complexity of these pores. This paper will review the most recent knowledge concerning gap junction dysfunction, with a special focus on the role of these channels in the pathogenesis of relevant clinical entities and on potential therapeutic targets that are amenable to modification by drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rajiv Jalan
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Medical School, London, UK
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Defourny J, Thelen N, Thiry M. Actin-independent trafficking of cochlear connexin 26 to non-lipid raft gap junction plaques. Hear Res 2019; 374:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Pannasch U, Dossi E, Ezan P, Rouach N. Astroglial Cx30 sustains neuronal population bursts independently of gap-junction mediated biochemical coupling. Glia 2019; 67:1104-1112. [PMID: 30794327 PMCID: PMC6519011 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Astroglial networks mediated by gap junction channels contribute to neurotransmission and promote neuronal coordination. Connexin 30, one of the two main astroglial gap junction forming protein, alters at the behavioral level the reactivity of mice to novel environment and at the synaptic level excitatory transmission. However, the role and function of Cx30 at the neuronal network level remain unclear. We thus investigated whether Cx30 regulates neuronal population bursts and associated convulsive behavior. We found in vivo that Cx30 is upregulated by kainate-induced seizures and that it regulates in turn the severity of associated behavioral seizures. Using electrophysiology ex vivo, we report that Cx30 regulates aberrant network activity via control of astroglial glutamate clearance independently of gap-junction mediated biochemical coupling. Altogether, our results indicate that astroglial Cx30 is an important player in orchestrating neuronal network activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Pannasch
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 7241, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Elena Dossi
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 7241, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Pascal Ezan
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 7241, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Rouach
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 7241, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France
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Defourny J. Eph/ephrin signalling in the development and function of the mammalian cochlea. Dev Biol 2019; 449:35-40. [PMID: 30771305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, the functional development of the cochlea requires the tight regulation of multiple molecules and signalling pathways including fibroblast growth factors, bone morphogenetic proteins, Wnt and Notch signalling pathways. Over the last decade, the Eph/ephrin system also emerged as a key player of the development and function of the mammalian cochlea. In this review, we discuss the recent advances on the role of Eph/ephrin signalling in patterning the cochlear sensory epithelium and the complex innervation of mechanosensory hair cells by spiral ganglion neurons. Finally, we address the issue of a syndromic form of hearing loss caused by a deficient member of the Eph/ephrin family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Defourny
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, C.H.U. B36, B-4000, Liège, Belgium.
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37
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Cochlear connexin 30 homomeric and heteromeric channels exhibit distinct assembly mechanisms. Mech Dev 2019; 155:8-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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38
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Carpena NT, Lee MY. Genetic Hearing Loss and Gene Therapy. Genomics Inform 2018; 16:e20. [PMID: 30602081 PMCID: PMC6440668 DOI: 10.5808/gi.2018.16.4.e20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic hearing loss crosses almost all the categories of hearing loss which includes the following: conductive, sensory, and neural; syndromic and nonsyndromic; congenital, progressive, and adult onset; high-frequency, low-frequency, or mixed frequency; mild or profound; and recessive, dominant, or sex-linked. Genes play a role in almost half of all cases of hearing loss but effective treatment options are very limited. Genetic hearing loss is considered to be extremely genetically heterogeneous. The advancements in genomics have been instrumental to the identification of more than 6,000 causative variants in more than 150 genes causing hearing loss. Identification of genes for hearing impairment provides an increased insight into the normal development and function of cells in the auditory system. These defective genes will ultimately be important therapeutic targets. However, the auditory system is extremely complex which requires tremendous advances in gene therapy including gene vectors, routes of administration, and therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes and discusses recent advances in elucidating the genomics of genetic hearing loss and technologies aimed at developing a gene therapy that may become a treatment option for in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathanial T Carpena
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Min Young Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan 31116, Korea.,Beckman Laser Institute Korea, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
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39
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DiStefano MT, Hemphill SE, Cushman BJ, Bowser MJ, Hynes E, Grant AR, Siegert RK, Oza AM, Gonzalez MA, Amr SS, Rehm HL, Abou Tayoun AN. Curating Clinically Relevant Transcripts for the Interpretation of Sequence Variants. J Mol Diagn 2018; 20:789-801. [PMID: 30096381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Revised: 05/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Variant interpretation depends on accurate annotations using biologically relevant transcripts. We have developed a systematic strategy for designating primary transcripts and have applied it to 109 hearing loss-associated genes that were divided into three categories. Category 1 genes (n = 38) had a single transcript; category 2 genes (n = 33) had multiple transcripts, but a single transcript was sufficient to represent all exons; and category 3 genes (n = 38) had multiple transcripts with unique exons. Transcripts were curated with respect to gene expression reported in the literature and the Genotype-Tissue Expression Project. In addition, high-frequency loss-of-function variants in the Genome Aggregation Database and disease-causing variants in ClinVar and the Human Gene Mutation Database across the 109 genes were queried. These data were used to classify exons as clinically significant, insignificant, or of uncertain significance. Interestingly, 6% of all exons, containing 124 reportedly disease-causing variants, were of uncertain significance. Finally, we used exon-level next-generation sequencing quality metrics generated at two clinical laboratories and identified a total of 43 technically challenging exons in 20 different genes that had inadequate coverage and/or homology issues that might lead to false-variant calls. We have demonstrated that transcript analysis plays a critical role in accurate clinical variant interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina T DiStefano
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Sarah E Hemphill
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Brandon J Cushman
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Mark J Bowser
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth Hynes
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew R Grant
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Rebecca K Siegert
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Andrea M Oza
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Michael A Gonzalez
- Division of Genomic Diagnostics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sami S Amr
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Heidi L Rehm
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Medical and Population Genetics, The Broad Institute of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ahmad N Abou Tayoun
- Division of Genomic Diagnostics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Genetics Department, Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
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Ghézali G, Calvo CF, Pillet LE, Llense F, Ezan P, Pannasch U, Bemelmans AP, Etienne Manneville S, Rouach N. Connexin 30 controls astroglial polarization during postnatal brain development. Development 2018; 145:145/4/dev155275. [PMID: 29475972 PMCID: PMC5869003 DOI: 10.1242/dev.155275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes undergo intense morphological maturation during development, changing from individual sparsely branched cells to polarized and tremendously ramified cells. Connexin 30, an astroglial gap-junction channel-forming protein expressed postnatally, regulates in situ the extension and ramification of astroglial processes. However, the involvement of connexin 30 in astroglial polarization, which is known to control cell morphology, remains unexplored. We found that connexin 30, independently of gap-junction-mediated intercellular biochemical coupling, alters the orientation of astrocyte protrusion, centrosome and Golgi apparatus during polarized migration in an in vitro wound-healing assay. Connexin 30 sets the orientation of astroglial motile protrusions via modulation of the laminin/β1 integrin/Cdc42 polarity pathway. Connexin 30 indeed reduces laminin levels, inhibits the redistribution of the β1-integrin extracellular matrix receptors, and inhibits the recruitment and activation of the small Rho GTPase Cdc42 at the leading edge of migrating astrocytes. In vivo, connexin 30, the expression of which is developmentally regulated, also contributes to the establishment of hippocampal astrocyte polarity during postnatal maturation. This study thus reveals that connexin 30 controls astroglial polarity during development. Summary: Connexin 30 sets the orientation of astroglial motile protrusions during polarized migration in vitro and contributes in vivo to the establishment of hippocampal astrocyte polarity during postnatal maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégory Ghézali
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris 75005, France.,Doctoral School N°158, Pierre and Marie Curie University, Paris 75005, France
| | - Charles-Félix Calvo
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris 75005, France
| | - Laure-Elise Pillet
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris 75005, France.,Doctoral School N°562, Paris Descartes University, Paris 75006, France
| | - Flora Llense
- Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3691, Cell Polarity, Migration and Cancer Unit, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
| | - Pascal Ezan
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris 75005, France
| | - Ulrike Pannasch
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris 75005, France
| | - Alexis-Pierre Bemelmans
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Département de la Recherche Fondamentale, Institut de biologie François Jacob, MIRCen, and CNRS UMR 9199, Université Paris-Sud, Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Fontenay-aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Sandrine Etienne Manneville
- Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3691, Cell Polarity, Migration and Cancer Unit, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
| | - Nathalie Rouach
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris 75005, France
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41
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del Castillo FJ, del Castillo I. DFNB1 Non-syndromic Hearing Impairment: Diversity of Mutations and Associated Phenotypes. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:428. [PMID: 29311818 PMCID: PMC5743749 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The inner ear is a very complex sensory organ whose development and function depend on finely balanced interactions among diverse cell types. The many different kinds of inner ear supporting cells play the essential roles of providing physical and physiological support to sensory hair cells and of maintaining cochlear homeostasis. Appropriately enough, the gene most commonly mutated among subjects with hereditary hearing impairment (HI), GJB2, encodes the connexin-26 (Cx26) gap-junction channel protein that underlies both intercellular communication among supporting cells and homeostasis of the cochlear fluids, endolymph and perilymph. GJB2 lies at the DFNB1 locus on 13q12. The specific kind of HI associated with this locus is caused by recessively-inherited mutations that inactivate the two alleles of the GJB2 gene, either in homozygous or compound heterozygous states. We describe the many diverse classes of genetic alterations that result in DFNB1 HI, such as large deletions that either destroy the GJB2 gene or remove a regulatory element essential for GJB2 expression, point mutations that interfere with promoter function or splicing, and small insertions or deletions and nucleotide substitutions that target the GJB2 coding sequence. We focus on how these alterations disrupt GJB2 and Cx26 functions and on their different effects on cochlear development and physiology. We finally discuss the diversity of clinical features of DFNB1 HI as regards severity, age of onset, inner ear malformations and vestibular dysfunction, highlighting the areas where future research should be concentrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J. del Castillo
- Servicio de Genética, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio del Castillo
- Servicio de Genética, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
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42
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Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Hearing Loss. JOURNAL OF OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY, HEARING AND BALANCE MEDICINE 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/ohbm1010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Huang S, Huang B, Wang G, Kang DY, Zhang X, Meng X, Dai P. The relationship between the GJB3 c.538C>T variant and hearing phenotype in the Chinese population. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2017; 102:67-70. [PMID: 29106878 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in GJB3 were originally shown to underlie an autosomal dominant form of non-syndromic deafness in Chinese patients and the c.538C>T (p.R180*) variants caused high-frequency hearing loss. But after that, few reports have reported this mutation. This study investigated the relationship between the GJB3 c.538C>T variant and hearing phenotype in Chinese to assist with risk assessment and genetic counseling for hearing loss patients and their families. METHOD The study enrolled 5700 patients with hearing loss and 4600 normal subjects. Deafness gene mutations were distinguished using a gene chip. The GJB3 c.538C>T variant rate was calculated from the results. RESULT Of the 5700 patients, 23 (0.40%) carried a GJB3 c.538C>T heterozygous variant; of these, 11 patients had other gene (GJB2/SLC26A4) mutations simultaneously. Most patients had moderate to profound hearing loss. All 23 patients were sporadic cases and had no family history of deafness. Of the 4600 normal individuals, 11 (0.24%) had GJB3 c.538C>T heterozygous variant. There was no statistical difference in incidence between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that the GJB3 c.538C>T variant has a very low incidence in the Chinese population, and there was no clear evidence to support a role of the GJB3 c.538C>T variant in the autosomal dominant form of non-syndromic deafness. Our findings suggested that GJB3 c.538C>T does not contribute to hearing loss, and this conclusion will assist with genetic counseling and risk prediction for deafness related to the GJB3 c.538C>T variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology, PLA General Hospital, Do.28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangqing Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hainan Branch of PLA General Hospital, Haitang Bay, Sanya 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Guojian Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, PLA General Hospital, Do.28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Yang Kang
- Department of Otolaryngology, PLA General Hospital, Do.28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, PLA General Hospital, Do.28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Meng
- Department of Otolaryngology, PLA General Hospital, Do.28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, People's Republic of China
| | - Pu Dai
- Department of Otolaryngology, PLA General Hospital, Do.28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, People's Republic of China.
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Mao B, Moss CF, Wilkinson GS. Age-dependent gene expression in the inner ear of big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186667. [PMID: 29073148 PMCID: PMC5658057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
For echolocating bats, hearing is essential for survival. Specializations for detecting and processing high frequency sounds are apparent throughout their auditory systems. Recent studies on echolocating mammals have reported evidence of parallel evolution in some hearing-related genes in which distantly related groups of echolocating animals (bats and toothed whales), cluster together in gene trees due to apparent amino acid convergence. However, molecular adaptations can occur not only in coding sequences, but also in the regulation of gene expression. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of hearing-related genes in the inner ear of developing big brown bats, Eptesicus fuscus, during the period in which echolocation vocalizations increase dramatically in frequency. We found that seven genes were significantly upregulated in juveniles relative to adults, and that the expression of four genes through development correlated with estimated age. Compared to available data for mice, it appears that expression of some hearing genes is extended in juvenile bats. These results are consistent with a prolonged growth period required to develop larger cochlea relative to body size, a later maturation of high frequency hearing, and a greater dependence on high frequency hearing in echolocating bats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Mao
- Department of Biology, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Cynthia F. Moss
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Zanvyl Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Gerald S. Wilkinson
- Department of Biology, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
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45
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Verselis VK. Connexin hemichannels and cochlear function. Neurosci Lett 2017; 695:40-45. [PMID: 28917982 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Connexins play vital roles in hearing, including promoting cochlear development and sustaining auditory function in the mature cochlea. Mutations in connexins expressed in the cochlear epithelium, Cx26 and Cx30, cause sensorineural deafness and in the case of Cx26, is one of the most common causes of non-syndromic, hereditary deafness. Connexins function as gap junction channels and as hemichannels, which mediate intercellular and transmembrane signaling, respectively. Both channel configurations can play important, but very different roles in the cochlea. The potential roles connexin hemichannels can play are discussed both in normal cochlear function and in promoting pathogenesis that can lead to hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vytas K Verselis
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, United States.
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46
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Alkowari MK, Vozzi D, Bhagat S, Krishnamoorthy N, Morgan A, Hayder Y, Logendra B, Najjar N, Gandin I, Gasparini P, Badii R, Girotto G, Abdulhadi K. Targeted sequencing identifies novel variants involved in autosomal recessive hereditary hearing loss in Qatari families. Mutat Res 2017; 800-802:29-36. [PMID: 28501645 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary hearing loss is characterized by a very high genetic heterogeneity. In the Qatari population the role of GJB2, the worldwide HHL major player, seems to be quite limited compared to Caucasian populations. In this study we analysed 18 Qatari families affected by non-syndromic hearing loss using a targeted sequencing approach that allowed us to analyse 81 genes simultaneously. Thanks to this approach, 50% of these families (9 out of 18) resulted positive for the presence of likely causative alleles in 6 different genes: CDH23, MYO6, GJB6, OTOF, TMC1 and OTOA. In particular, 4 novel alleles were detected while the remaining ones were already described to be associated to HHL in other ethnic groups. Molecular modelling has been used to further investigate the role of novel alleles identified in CDH23 and TMC1 genes demonstrating their crucial role in Ca2+ binding and therefore possible functional role in proteins. Present study showed that an accurate molecular diagnosis based on next generation sequencing technologies might largely improve molecular diagnostics outcome leading to benefits for both genetic counseling and definition of recurrence risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moza K Alkowari
- Division of Experimental Genetics, Sidra Medical and Research Centre, Doha, Qatar
| | - Diego Vozzi
- Medical Genetics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Navaneethakrishnan Krishnamoorthy
- Division of Experimental Genetics, Sidra Medical and Research Centre, Doha, Qatar; Heart Science Centre, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Morgan
- Medical Genetics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy; Medical Sciences, Chirurgical and Health Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Ilaria Gandin
- Medical Genetics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Paolo Gasparini
- Medical Genetics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy; Medical Sciences, Chirurgical and Health Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Ramin Badii
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, HMC, Doha, Qatar
| | - Giorgia Girotto
- Medical Genetics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy; Medical Sciences, Chirurgical and Health Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
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47
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Liu W, Li H, Edin F, Brännström J, Glueckert R, Schrott-Fischer A, Molnar M, Pacholsky D, Pfaller K, Rask-Andersen H. Molecular composition and distribution of gap junctions in the sensory epithelium of the human cochlea-a super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM) study. Ups J Med Sci 2017; 122:160-170. [PMID: 28513246 PMCID: PMC5649321 DOI: 10.1080/03009734.2017.1322645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in the GJB2 gene, which encodes the Connexin26 (Cx26) protein, are the most common cause of childhood hearing loss in American and European populations. The cochlea contains a gap junction (GJ) network in the sensory epithelium and two connective tissue networks in the lateral wall and spiral limbus. The syncytia contain the GJ proteins beta 2 (GJB2/Cx26) and beta 6 (GJB6/Cx30). Our knowledge of their expression in humans is insufficient due to the limited availability of tissue. Here, we sought to establish the molecular arrangement of GJs in the epithelial network of the human cochlea using surgically obtained samples. METHODS We analyzed Cx26 and Cx30 expression in GJ networks in well-preserved adult human auditory sensory epithelium using confocal, electron, and super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM). RESULTS Cx30 plaques (<5 μm) dominated, while Cx26 plaques were subtle and appeared as 'mini-junctions' (2-300 nm). 3-D volume rendering of Z-stacks and orthogonal projections from single optical sections suggested that the GJs are homomeric/homotypic and consist of assemblies of identical GJs composed of either Cx26 or Cx30. Occasionally, the two protein types were co-expressed, suggesting functional cooperation. CONCLUSIONS Establishing the molecular composition and distribution of the GJ networks in the human cochlea may increase our understanding of the pathophysiology of Cx-related hearing loss. This information may also assist in developing future strategies to treat genetic hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Fredrik Edin
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Johan Brännström
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, The Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Rudolf Glueckert
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria;
| | | | - Matyas Molnar
- Science for Life Laboratory, BioVis Facility, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Dirk Pacholsky
- Science for Life Laboratory, BioVis Facility, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Kristian Pfaller
- Department of Histology and Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy and Histology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helge Rask-Andersen
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden;
- CONTACT Helge Rask-Andersen Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
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48
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Srinivas M, Verselis VK, White TW. Human diseases associated with connexin mutations. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:192-201. [PMID: 28457858 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions and hemichannels comprised of connexins impact many cellular processes. Significant advances in our understanding of the functional role of these channels have been made by the identification of a host of genetic diseases caused by connexin mutations. Prominent features of connexin disorders are the inability of other connexins expressed in the same cell type to compensate for the mutated one, and the ability of connexin mutants to dominantly influence the activity of other wild-type connexins. Functional studies have begun to identify some of the underlying mechanisms whereby connexin channel mutation contributes to the disease state. Detailed mechanistic understanding of these functional differences will help to facilitate new pathophysiology driven therapies for the diverse array of connexin genetic disorders. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miduturu Srinivas
- Department of Biological and Vision Sciences, SUNY College of Optometry, New York, NY 10036, USA
| | - Vytas K Verselis
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Thomas W White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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49
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Leone MP, Palumbo P, Ortore R, Castellana S, Palumbo O, Melchionda S, Palladino T, Stallone R, Mazza T, Cocchi R, Carella M. Putative TMPRSS3/GJB2 digenic inheritance of hearing loss detected by targeted resequencing. Mol Cell Probes 2017; 33:24-27. [PMID: 28263784 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The paper describes a putative digenic form of deafness in two siblings affected by non-syndromic hereditary hearing loss, detected by a Targeted resequencing approach. Given that a previous paper suggested TMPRSS3 and GJB2 genes as responsible for a digenic form of hearing loss, our data support and reinforce this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pia Leone
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Palumbo
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Rocco Ortore
- Oto-Rhino-Laryngology Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Stefano Castellana
- Bioinformatics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Orazio Palumbo
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Melchionda
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Teresa Palladino
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Raffaella Stallone
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Tommaso Mazza
- Bioinformatics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Roberto Cocchi
- Oto-Rhino-Laryngology Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Massimo Carella
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
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50
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Wong SH, Wang WH, Chen PH, Li SY, Yang JJ. Functional analysis of a nonsyndromic hearing loss-associated mutation in the transmembrane II domain of the GJC3 gene. Int J Med Sci 2017; 14:246-256. [PMID: 28367085 PMCID: PMC5370287 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.17785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In a previous study, we identified a novel missense mutation, p.W77S, in the GJC3 gene encoding connexin30.2/connexin31.3 (CX30.2/CX31.3) from patients with hearing loss. The functional alteration of CX30.2/CX31.3 caused by the p.W77S mutant of GJC3 gene, however, remains unclear. In the current study, our result indicated that the p.W77 is localized at the second membrane-spanning segments (TM2) and near border of the E1 domain of the CX30.2/CX31.3 protein and highly conserved (Conseq score = 8~9) in all species. The p.W77S missense mutation proteins in the intracellular distribution are different CX30.2/CX31.3WT and an accumulation of the mutant protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of the HeLa cell. Furthermore, co-expression of WT and p.W77S mutant chimerae proteins showed that the heteromeric connexon accumulated in the cytoplasm, thereby impairing the WT proteins' expression in the cell membranes. In addition, we found that CX30.2/CX31.3W77S missense mutant proteins were degraded by lysosomes and proteosomes in the transfected HeLa cell. Based on these findings, we suggest that p.W77S mutant has a dominant negative effect on the formation and function of the gap junction. These results give a novel molecular elucidation for the mutation of GJC3 in the development of hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swee-Hee Wong
- Department of BioMedical Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan;; Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Hung Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Hua Chen
- Department of BioMedical Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shuan-Yow Li
- Department of BioMedical Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan;; Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jiann-Jou Yang
- Department of BioMedical Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan;; Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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