1
|
Borg J, Loy C, Kim J, Buhagiar A, Chin C, Damle N, De Vlaminck I, Felice A, Liu T, Matei I, Meydan C, Muratani M, Mzava O, Overbey E, Ryon KA, Smith SM, Tierney BT, Trudel G, Zwart SR, Beheshti A, Mason CE, Borg J. Spatiotemporal expression and control of haemoglobin in space. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4927. [PMID: 38862545 PMCID: PMC11166948 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49289-8] [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: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
It is now widely recognised that the environment in space activates a diverse set of genes involved in regulating fundamental cellular pathways. This includes the activation of genes associated with blood homoeostasis and erythropoiesis, with a particular emphasis on those involved in globin chain production. Haemoglobin biology provides an intriguing model for studying space omics, as it has been extensively explored at multiple -omic levels, spanning DNA, RNA, and protein analyses, in both experimental and clinical contexts. In this study, we examined the developmental expression of haemoglobin over time and space using a unique suite of multi-omic datasets available on NASA GeneLab, from the NASA Twins Study, the JAXA CFE study, and the Inspiration4 mission. Our findings reveal significant variations in globin gene expression corresponding to the distinct spatiotemporal characteristics of the collected samples. This study sheds light on the dynamic nature of globin gene regulation in response to the space environment and provides valuable insights into the broader implications of space omics research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josef Borg
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta
| | - Conor Loy
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - JangKeun Kim
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alfred Buhagiar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta
| | - Christopher Chin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Namita Damle
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Iwijn De Vlaminck
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alex Felice
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta
| | - Tammy Liu
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Department of Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Irina Matei
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cem Meydan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Masafumi Muratani
- Department of Genome Biology, Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Omary Mzava
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Eliah Overbey
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Krista A Ryon
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott M Smith
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, Human Health and Performance Directorate, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Braden T Tierney
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Guy Trudel
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Department of Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sara R Zwart
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, Human Health and Performance Directorate, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Afshin Beheshti
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, USA.
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Christopher E Mason
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- The WorldQuant Initiative for Quantitative Prediction, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| | - Joseph Borg
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, MSD2080, Malta.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Oni MO, Brito M, Rotman C, Archer NM. Genetic Modifiers of Stroke in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease-A Scoping Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6317. [PMID: 38928024 PMCID: PMC11203960 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126317] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) clinically manifests itself with a myriad of complications. Stroke, both ischemic and hemorrhagic, as well as silent white matter changes, occurs at a relatively high prevalence. Understanding why and in whom stroke is most likely to occur is critical to the effective prevention and treatment of individuals with SCD. Genetic studies, including genome- and exome-wide association studies (GWAS and EWAS), have found several key modifiers associated with increased stroke/stroke risk in SCD via mechanisms including Hemoglobin F (HbF) modulation, inflammation, cellular adhesion, endothelial disruption, and hemolysis. We present a review on the modifiers that have most clearly demonstrated an association to date. More studies are needed to validate other potential polymorphisms and identify new ones. Incorporating gene-focused screenings in clinical care could provide avenues for more targeted, more effective, and less toxic prevention of stroke in this population. The data from this review will be used to inform the initial GWAS performed by the International Hemoglobinopathy Research Network (INHERENT) consortium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morohuntodun O. Oni
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Miguel Brito
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-092 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Chloe Rotman
- Medical Library, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Natasha M. Archer
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gibbons MD, Bungert J. GATA2: sense and (anti)sensibility. Blood 2024; 143:2224-2225. [PMID: 38814656 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2024024549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
|
4
|
Myers G, Sun Y, Wang Y, Benmhammed H, Cui S. Roles of Nuclear Orphan Receptors TR2 and TR4 during Hematopoiesis. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:563. [PMID: 38790192 PMCID: PMC11121135 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050563] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
TR2 and TR4 (NR2C1 and NR2C2, respectively) are evolutionarily conserved nuclear orphan receptors capable of binding direct repeat sequences in a stage-specific manner. Like other nuclear receptors, TR2 and TR4 possess important roles in transcriptional activation or repression with developmental stage and tissue specificity. TR2 and TR4 bind DNA and possess the ability to complex with available cofactors mediating developmental stage-specific actions in primitive and definitive erythrocytes. In erythropoiesis, TR2 and TR4 are required for erythroid development, maturation, and key erythroid transcription factor regulation. TR2 and TR4 recruit and interact with transcriptional corepressors or coactivators to elicit developmental stage-specific gene regulation during hematopoiesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greggory Myers
- Departments of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA; (G.M.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yanan Sun
- Section of Hematology-Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Y.S.); (H.B.)
| | - Yu Wang
- Departments of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA; (G.M.); (Y.W.)
| | - Hajar Benmhammed
- Section of Hematology-Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Y.S.); (H.B.)
| | - Shuaiying Cui
- Section of Hematology-Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Y.S.); (H.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang X, Xia F, Zhang X, Blumenthal RM, Cheng X. C2H2 Zinc Finger Transcription Factors Associated with Hemoglobinopathies. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168343. [PMID: 37924864 PMCID: PMC11185177 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
In humans, specific aberrations in β-globin results in sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia, symptoms of which can be ameliorated by increased expression of fetal globin (HbF). Two recent CRISPR-Cas9 screens, centered on ∼1500 annotated sequence-specific DNA binding proteins and performed in a human erythroid cell line that expresses adult hemoglobin, uncovered four groups of candidate regulators of HbF gene expression. They are (1) members of the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex proteins that are already known for HbF control; (2) seven C2H2 zinc finger (ZF) proteins, including some (ZBTB7A and BCL11A) already known for directly silencing the fetal γ-globin genes in adult human erythroid cells; (3) a few other transcription factors of different structural classes that might indirectly influence HbF gene expression; and (4) DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) that maintains the DNA methylation marks that attract the MBD2-associated NuRD complex to DNA as well as associated histone H3 lysine 9 methylation. Here we briefly discuss the effects of these regulators, particularly C2H2 ZFs, in inducing HbF expression for treating β-hemoglobin disorders, together with recent advances in developing safe and effective small-molecule therapeutics for the regulation of this well-conserved hemoglobin switch.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xing Zhang
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Fangfang Xia
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaotian Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center Houston, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert M Blumenthal
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and Program in Bioinformatics, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yuce K, Ozkan AI. The kruppel-like factor (KLF) family, diseases, and physiological events. Gene 2024; 895:148027. [PMID: 38000704 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.148027] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
The Kruppel-Like Factor family of regulatory proteins, which has 18 members, is transcription factors. This family contains zinc finger proteins, regulates the activation and suppression of transcription, and binds to DNA, RNA, and proteins. Klfs related to the immune system are Klf1, Klf2, Klf3, Klf4, Klf6, and Klf14. Klfs related to adipose tissue development and/or glucose metabolism are Klf3, Klf7, Klf9, Klf10, Klf11, Klf14, Klf15, and Klf16. Klfs related to cancer are Klf3, Klf4, Klf5, Klf6, Klf7, Klf8, Klf9, Klf10, Klf11, Klf12, Klf13, Klf14, Klf16, and Klf17. Klfs related to the cardiovascular system are Klf4, Klf5, Klf10, Klf13, Klf14, and Klf15. Klfs related to the nervous system are Klf4, Klf7, Klf8, and Klf9. Klfs are associated with diseases such as carcinogenesis, oxidative stress, diabetes, liver fibrosis, thalassemia, and the metabolic syndrome. The aim of this review is to provide information about the relationship of Klfs with some diseases and physiological events and to guide future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kemal Yuce
- Selcuk University, Medicine Faculty, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology, Konya, Turkiye.
| | - Ahmet Ismail Ozkan
- Artvin Coruh University, Medicinal-Aromatic Plants Application and Research Center, Artvin, Turkiye.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zheng G, Orkin SH. Transcriptional Repressor BCL11A in Erythroid Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1459:199-215. [PMID: 39017845 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62731-6_9] [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: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
BCL11A, a zinc finger repressor, is a stage-specific transcription factor that controls the switch from fetal (HbF, α2γ2) to adult (HbA, α2β2) hemoglobin in erythroid cells. While BCL11A was known as a factor critical for B-lymphoid cell development, its relationship to erythroid cells and HbF arose through genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Subsequent work validated its role as a silencer of γ-globin gene expression in cultured cells and mice. Erythroid-specific loss of BCL11A rescues the phenotype of engineered sickle cell disease (SCD) mice, thereby suggesting that downregulation of BCL11A expression might be beneficial in patients with SCD and β-thalassemia. Common genetic variation in GWAS resides in an erythroid-specific enhancer within the BCL11A gene that is required for its own expression. CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing of the enhancer revealed a GATA-binding site that confers a large portion of its regulatory function. Disruption of the GATA site leads to robust HbF reactivation. Advancement of a guide RNA targeting the GATA-binding site in clinical trials has recently led to approval of first-in-man use of ex vivo CRISPR editing of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) as therapy of SCD and β-thalassemia. Future challenges include expanding access and infrastructure for delivery of genetic therapy to eligible patients, reducing potential toxicity and costs, exploring prospects for in vivo targeting of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and developing small molecule drugs that impair function of BCL11A protein as an alternative option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ge Zheng
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School and HHMI, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stuart H Orkin
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School and HHMI, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bieker JJ, Philipsen S. Erythroid Krüppel-Like Factor (KLF1): A Surprisingly Versatile Regulator of Erythroid Differentiation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1459:217-242. [PMID: 39017846 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62731-6_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Erythroid Krüppel-like factor (KLF1), first discovered in 1992, is an erythroid-restricted transcription factor (TF) that is essential for terminal differentiation of erythroid progenitors. At face value, KLF1 is a rather inconspicuous member of the 26-strong SP/KLF TF family. However, 30 years of research have revealed that KLF1 is a jack of all trades in the molecular control of erythropoiesis. Initially described as a one-trick pony required for high-level transcription of the adult HBB gene, we now know that it orchestrates the entire erythroid differentiation program. It does so not only as an activator but also as a repressor. In addition, KLF1 was the first TF shown to be directly involved in enhancer/promoter loop formation. KLF1 variants underlie a wide range of erythroid phenotypes in the human population, varying from very mild conditions such as hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin and the In(Lu) blood type in the case of haploinsufficiency, to much more serious non-spherocytic hemolytic anemias in the case of compound heterozygosity, to dominant congenital dyserythropoietic anemia type IV invariably caused by a de novo variant in a highly conserved amino acid in the KLF1 DNA-binding domain. In this chapter, we present an overview of the past and present of KLF1 research and discuss the significance of human KLF1 variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James J Bieker
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Sjaak Philipsen
- Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hantaweepant C, Suktitipat B, Pithukpakorn M, Chinthammitr Y, Limwongse C, Tansiri N, Sawatnatee S, Takpradit C, Rotchanapanya W, Pongudom S, Charoenprasert K, Paiboonsukwong K, Thamprasert W, Nolwachai N, Rattanasawat W, Sae-Aeng B, Khorwanichakij N, Saetow P, Saengboon S, Kamjornpreecha K, Pholmoo W, Dujjawan B, Siritanaratkul N. Whole exome sequencing and rare variant association study to identify genetic modifiers, KLF1 mutations, and a novel double mutation in Thai patients with hemoglobin E/beta-thalassemia. Hematology 2023; 28:2187155. [PMID: 36939018 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2023.2187155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Clinical manifestations of patients with Hemoglobin E/beta-thalassemia vary from mild to severe phenotypes despite exhibiting the same genotype. Studies have partially identified genetic modifiers. We aimed to study the association between rare variants in protein-coding regions and clinical severity in Thai patients. METHODS From April to November 2018, a case-control study was conducted based on clinical information and DNA samples collected from Thai patients with hemoglobin E/beta-thalassemia over the age of four years. Cases were patients with severe symptoms, while patients with mild symptoms acted as controls. Whole exome sequencing and rare variant association study were used to analyze the data. RESULTS All 338 unrelated patients were classified into 165 severe and 173 mild cases. Genotypes comprised 81.4% of hemoglobin E/beta-thalassemia, 2.7% of homozygous or compound heterozygous beta-thalassemia, and 0.3% of (δβ)0 thalassemia Hb E while 15.7% of samples were not classified as beta-thalassemia. A novel cis heterozygotes of IVS I-7 (A > T) and codon 26 (G > A) was identified. Six genes (COL4A3, DLK1, FAM186A, PZP, THPO, and TRIM51) showed the strongest associations with severity (observed p-values of <0.05; significance lost after correction for multiplicity). Among known modifiers, KLF1 variants were found in four mild patients and one severe patient. CONCLUSION No rare variants were identified as contributors to the clinical heterogeneity of hemoglobin E/beta-thalassemia. KLF1 mutations are potential genetic modifiers. Studies to identify genetic factors are still important and helpful for predicting severity and developing targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chattree Hantaweepant
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Bhoom Suktitipat
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Integrative Computational BioScience (ICBS) Center, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Manop Pithukpakorn
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Siriraj Genomics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yingyong Chinthammitr
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chanin Limwongse
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nawaporn Tansiri
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Uttaradit Hospital, Uttaradit, Thailand
| | - Surasak Sawatnatee
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand
| | - Chayamon Takpradit
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wannaphorn Rotchanapanya
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Chiangrai Prachanukroh Hospital, Chiangrai, Thailand
| | - Saranya Pongudom
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Udonthani Hospital, Udonthani, Thailand
| | | | - Kittiphong Paiboonsukwong
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Wichuda Thamprasert
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Nakhon Pathom Hospital, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Narumol Nolwachai
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Saraburi Hospital, Saraburi, Thailand
| | - Wanlapa Rattanasawat
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Busakorn Sae-Aeng
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Banphaeo General Hospital, Samutsakhon, Thailand
| | - Nisachon Khorwanichakij
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Chaophra Yommarat Hospital, Suphanburi, Thailand
| | - Putchong Saetow
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lerdsin Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Supawee Saengboon
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | | | - Wikanda Pholmoo
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Pathumthani Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Boonyanuch Dujjawan
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Noppadol Siritanaratkul
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ferrer-Vicens I, Ferguson DCJ, Wilson MC, Heesom KJ, Bieker JJ, Frayne J. A novel human cellular model of CDA IV enables comprehensive analysis revealing the molecular basis of the disease phenotype. Blood 2023; 141:3039-3054. [PMID: 37084386 PMCID: PMC10315626 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2022018735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Red blood cell disorders can result in severe anemia. One such disease congenital dyserythropoietic anemia IV (CDA IV) is caused by the heterozygous mutation E325K in the transcription factor KLF1. However, studying the molecular basis of CDA IV is severely impeded by the paucity of suitable and adequate quantities of material from patients with anemia and the rarity of the disease. We, therefore, took a novel approach, creating a human cellular disease model system for CDA IV that accurately recapitulates the disease phenotype. Next, using comparative proteomics, we reveal extensive distortion of the proteome and a wide range of disordered biological processes in CDA IV erythroid cells. These include downregulated pathways the governing cell cycle, chromatin separation, DNA repair, cytokinesis, membrane trafficking, and global transcription, and upregulated networks governing mitochondrial biogenesis. The diversity of such pathways elucidates the spectrum of phenotypic abnormalities that occur with CDA IV and impairment to erythroid cell development and survival, collectively explaining the CDA IV disease phenotype. The data also reveal far more extensive involvement of KLF1 in previously assigned biological processes, along with novel roles in the regulation of intracellular processes not previously attributed to this transcription factor. Overall, the data demonstrate the power of such a model cellular system to unravel the molecular basis of disease and how studying the effects of a rare mutation can reveal fundamental biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marieangela C. Wilson
- Proteomics Facility, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Kate J. Heesom
- Proteomics Facility, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - James J. Bieker
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Jan Frayne
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Qin K, Lan X, Huang P, Saari MS, Khandros E, Keller CA, Giardine B, Abdulmalik O, Shi J, Hardison RC, Blobel GA. Molecular basis of polycomb group protein-mediated fetal hemoglobin repression. Blood 2023; 141:2756-2770. [PMID: 36893455 PMCID: PMC10273169 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2022019578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The switch from fetal hemoglobin (HbF) to adult hemoglobin (HbA) is a paradigm for developmental gene expression control with relevance to sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia. Polycomb repressive complex (PRC) proteins regulate this switch, and an inhibitor of PRC2 has entered a clinical trial for HbF activation. Yet, how PRC complexes function in this process, their target genes, and relevant subunit composition are unknown. Here, we identified the PRC1 subunit BMI1 as a novel HbF repressor. We uncovered the RNA binding proteins LIN28B, IGF2BP1, and IGF2BP3 genes as direct BMI1 targets, and demonstrate that they account for the entirety of BMI1's effect on HbF regulation. BMI1 functions as part of the canonical PRC1 (cPRC1) subcomplex as revealed by the physical and functional dissection of BMI1 protein partners. Lastly, we demonstrate that BMI1/cPRC1 acts in concert with PRC2 to repress HbF through the same target genes. Our study illuminates how PRC silences HbF, highlighting an epigenetic mechanism involved in hemoglobin switching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kunhua Qin
- Division of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Xianjiang Lan
- Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Division of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Megan S. Saari
- Division of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Eugene Khandros
- Division of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Cheryl A. Keller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, State College, PA
| | - Belinda Giardine
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, State College, PA
| | - Osheiza Abdulmalik
- Division of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Junwei Shi
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Ross C. Hardison
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, State College, PA
| | - Gerd A. Blobel
- Division of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Paschoudi K, Yannaki E, Psatha N. Precision Editing as a Therapeutic Approach for β-Hemoglobinopathies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119527. [PMID: 37298481 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119527] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-hemoglobinopathies are the most common genetic disorders worldwide, caused by a wide spectrum of mutations in the β-globin locus, and associated with morbidity and early mortality in case of patient non-adherence to supportive treatment. Allogeneic transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells (allo-HSCT) used to be the only curative option, although the indispensable need for an HLA-matched donor markedly restricted its universal application. The evolution of gene therapy approaches made possible the ex vivo delivery of a therapeutic β- or γ- globin gene into patient-derived hematopoietic stem cells followed by the transplantation of corrected cells into myeloablated patients, having led to high rates of transfusion independence (thalassemia) or complete resolution of painful crises (sickle cell disease-SCD). Hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH), a syndrome characterized by increased γ-globin levels, when co-inherited with β-thalassemia or SCD, converts hemoglobinopathies to a benign condition with mild clinical phenotype. The rapid development of precise genome editing tools (ZFN, TALENs, CRISPR/Cas9) over the last decade has allowed the targeted introduction of mutations, resulting in disease-modifying outcomes. In this context, genome editing tools have successfully been used for the introduction of HPFH-like mutations both in HBG1/HBG2 promoters or/and in the erythroid enhancer of BCL11A to increase HbF expression as an alternative curative approach for β-hemoglobinopathies. The current investigation of new HbF modulators, such as ZBTB7A, KLF-1, SOX6, and ZNF410, further expands the range of possible genome editing targets. Importantly, genome editing approaches have recently reached clinical translation in trials investigating HbF reactivation in both SCD and thalassemic patients. Showing promising outcomes, these approaches are yet to be confirmed in long-term follow-up studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiriaki Paschoudi
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Hematology Clinic, George Papanikolaou Hospital, Exokhi, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evangelia Yannaki
- Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Hematology Clinic, George Papanikolaou Hospital, Exokhi, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Hematology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Nikoletta Psatha
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gnanapragasam MN, Planutis A, Glassberg JA, Bieker JJ. Identification of a genomic DNA sequence that quantitatively modulates KLF1 transcription factor expression in differentiating human hematopoietic cells. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7589. [PMID: 37165057 PMCID: PMC10172341 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34805-5] [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: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The onset of erythropoiesis is under strict developmental control, with direct and indirect inputs influencing its derivation from the hematopoietic stem cell. A major regulator of this transition is KLF1/EKLF, a zinc finger transcription factor that plays a global role in all aspects of erythropoiesis. Here, we have identified a short, conserved enhancer element in KLF1 intron 1 that is important for establishing optimal levels of KLF1 in mouse and human cells. Chromatin accessibility of this site exhibits cell-type specificity and is under developmental control during the differentiation of human CD34+ cells towards the erythroid lineage. This site binds GATA1, SMAD1, TAL1, and ETV6. In vivo editing of this region in cell lines and primary cells reduces KLF1 expression quantitatively. However, we find that, similar to observations seen in pedigrees of families with KLF1 mutations, downstream effects are variable, suggesting that the global architecture of the site is buffered towards keeping the KLF1 genetic region in an active state. We propose that modification of intron 1 in both alleles is not equivalent to complete loss of function of one allele.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M N Gnanapragasam
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1020, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - A Planutis
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1020, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - J A Glassberg
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hematology and Medical Oncology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - J J Bieker
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1020, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA.
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA.
- Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jung MM, Shen S, Botten GA, Olender T, Katsumura KR, Johnson KD, Soukup AA, Liu P, Zhang Q, Jensvold ZD, Lewis PW, Beagrie RA, Low JK, Yang L, Mackay JP, Godley LA, Brand M, Xu J, Keles S, Bresnick EH. Pathogenic human variant that dislocates GATA2 zinc fingers disrupts hematopoietic gene expression and signaling networks. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e162685. [PMID: 36809258 PMCID: PMC10065080 DOI: 10.1172/jci162685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Although certain human genetic variants are conspicuously loss of function, decoding the impact of many variants is challenging. Previously, we described a patient with leukemia predisposition syndrome (GATA2 deficiency) with a germline GATA2 variant that inserts 9 amino acids between the 2 zinc fingers (9aa-Ins). Here, we conducted mechanistic analyses using genomic technologies and a genetic rescue system with Gata2 enhancer-mutant hematopoietic progenitor cells to compare how GATA2 and 9aa-Ins function genome-wide. Despite nuclear localization, 9aa-Ins was severely defective in occupying and remodeling chromatin and regulating transcription. Variation of the inter-zinc finger spacer length revealed that insertions were more deleterious to activation than repression. GATA2 deficiency generated a lineage-diverting gene expression program and a hematopoiesis-disrupting signaling network in progenitors with reduced granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and elevated IL-6 signaling. As insufficient GM-CSF signaling caused pulmonary alveolar proteinosis and excessive IL-6 signaling promoted bone marrow failure and GATA2 deficiency patient phenotypes, these results provide insight into mechanisms underlying GATA2-linked pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mabel Minji Jung
- Wisconsin Blood Cancer Research Institute, Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, Carbone Cancer Center, and
| | - Siqi Shen
- Department of Biostatistics and Biomedical Informatics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Giovanni A. Botten
- Children’s Medical Center Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Thomas Olender
- Sprott Center for Stem Cell Research, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute–General Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Koichi R. Katsumura
- Wisconsin Blood Cancer Research Institute, Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, Carbone Cancer Center, and
| | - Kirby D. Johnson
- Wisconsin Blood Cancer Research Institute, Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, Carbone Cancer Center, and
| | - Alexandra A. Soukup
- Wisconsin Blood Cancer Research Institute, Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, Carbone Cancer Center, and
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Biostatistics and Biomedical Informatics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Qingzhou Zhang
- Sprott Center for Stem Cell Research, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute–General Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zena D. Jensvold
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Peter W. Lewis
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Robert A. Beagrie
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jason K.K. Low
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lihua Yang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joel P. Mackay
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lucy A. Godley
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Marjorie Brand
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jian Xu
- Children’s Medical Center Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sunduz Keles
- Department of Biostatistics and Biomedical Informatics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Emery H. Bresnick
- Wisconsin Blood Cancer Research Institute, Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, Carbone Cancer Center, and
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Thalassemia syndromes are common monogenic disorders and represent a significant health issue worldwide. In this review, the authors elaborate on fundamental genetic knowledge about thalassemias, including the structure and location of globin genes, the production of hemoglobin during development, the molecular lesions causing α-, β-, and other thalassemia syndromes, the genotype-phenotype correlation, and the genetic modifiers of these conditions. In addition, they briefly discuss the molecular techniques applied for diagnosis and innovative cell and gene therapy strategies to cure these conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Tesio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, University of Torino, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy. https://twitter.com/nicolotesio
| | - Daniel E Bauer
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Broad Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Impact of Genetic Polymorphisms in Modifier Genes in Determining Fetal Hemoglobin Levels in Beta-Thalassemia. THALASSEMIA REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/thalassrep13010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic polymorphisms in Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) genes such as BCL11A, HBS1L-MYB and KLF1 have been reported to influence fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels. This prospective study was planned to evaluate the role of genetic polymorphisms in QTL genes as determinant of HbF levels in beta thalassemia major patients. The study was carried out on 100 thalassemia major patients. Blood samples were collected in EDTA and plain vials for biochemical and molecular evaluation. The BCL11A, HBS1L-MYB and KLF1 genotypes were determined using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method. Red Blood Cell (RBC) indices and HbF levels were assessed. In silico analysis was assessed using loss-of-function tool (Lof Tool). Statistical difference and genetic comparisons between groups were evaluated by using SPSS for Windows, version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Comparisons between quantitative variables were carried out after data explored for normality using Kolmogorov–Smirnov test of normality. Logistic regression was used for computation of ORs and 95% CIs (Confidence Interval). We observed association of HbF levels in thalassemia major patients with the polymorphisms in BCL11A (rs11886868 rs7557939; rs1427407 and rs766432) and HBS1L-MYB (rs9399137) gene. The results of this study indicated that the presence of polymorphisms on modifier genes are strongly associated with an increase in HbF levels in thalassemia major patients. Further research with a larger sample size and with other genes of modifier genes is required.
Collapse
|
17
|
In Vitro Human Haematopoietic Stem Cell Expansion and Differentiation. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060896. [PMID: 36980237 PMCID: PMC10046976 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The haematopoietic system plays an essential role in our health and survival. It is comprised of a range of mature blood and immune cell types, including oxygen-carrying erythrocytes, platelet-producing megakaryocytes and infection-fighting myeloid and lymphoid cells. Self-renewing multipotent haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and a range of intermediate haematopoietic progenitor cell types differentiate into these mature cell types to continuously support haematopoietic system homeostasis throughout life. This process of haematopoiesis is tightly regulated in vivo and primarily takes place in the bone marrow. Over the years, a range of in vitro culture systems have been developed, either to expand haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells or to differentiate them into the various haematopoietic lineages, based on the use of recombinant cytokines, co-culture systems and/or small molecules. These approaches provide important tractable models to study human haematopoiesis in vitro. Additionally, haematopoietic cell culture systems are being developed and clinical tested as a source of cell products for transplantation and transfusion medicine. This review discusses the in vitro culture protocols for human HSC expansion and differentiation, and summarises the key factors involved in these biological processes.
Collapse
|
18
|
Buoninfante OA, Pilzecker B, Spanjaard A, de Groot D, Prekovic S, Song JY, Lieftink C, Ayidah M, Pritchard CEJ, Vivié J, Mcgrath KE, Huijbers IJ, Philipsen S, von Lindern M, Zwart W, Beijersbergen R, Palis J, van den Berk PCM, Jacobs H. Mammalian life depends on two distinct pathways of DNA damage tolerance. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2216055120. [PMID: 36669105 PMCID: PMC9942833 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2216055120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA damage threatens genomic integrity and instigates stem cell failure. To bypass genotoxic lesions during replication, cells employ DNA damage tolerance (DDT), which is regulated via PCNA ubiquitination and REV1. DDT is conserved in all domains of life, yet its relevance in mammals remains unclear. Here, we show that inactivation of both PCNA-ubiquitination and REV1 results in embryonic and adult lethality, and the accumulation of DNA damage in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) that ultimately resulted in their depletion. Our results reveal the crucial relevance of DDT in the maintenance of stem cell compartments and mammalian life in unperturbed conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bas Pilzecker
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aldo Spanjaard
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniël de Groot
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Prekovic
- Division of Oncogenomics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht and Utrecht University, 3584 CXUtrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ji-Ying Song
- Division of Experimental Animal Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cor Lieftink
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute Robotics and Screening Center, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matilda Ayidah
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Colin E. J. Pritchard
- Mouse Clinic for Cancer and Aging Research, Transgenic Facility, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Vivié
- Hubrecht Institute-Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 3584 CTUtrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kathleen E. Mcgrath
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY14642
| | - Ivo J. Huijbers
- Mouse Clinic for Cancer and Aging Research, Transgenic Facility, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjaak Philipsen
- Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015CNRotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke von Lindern
- Department of Hematopoiesis, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratories, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Zwart
- Division of Oncogenomics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roderick L. Beijersbergen
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute Robotics and Screening Center, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James Palis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY14642
| | - Paul C. M. van den Berk
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Heinz Jacobs
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CXAmsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Elagooz R, Dhara AR, Gott RM, Adams SE, White RA, Ghosh A, Ganguly S, Man Y, Owusu-Ansah A, Mian OY, Gurkan UA, Komar AA, Ramamoorthy M, Gnanapragasam MN. PUM1 mediates the posttranscriptional regulation of human fetal hemoglobin. Blood Adv 2022; 6:6016-6022. [PMID: 35667093 PMCID: PMC9699939 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2021006730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switching at about the time of birth involves a shift in expression from γ-globin to β-globin in erythroid cells. Effective re-expression of fetal γ-globin can ameliorate sickle cell anemia and β-thalassemia. Despite the physiological and clinical relevance of this switch, its posttranscriptional regulation is poorly understood. Here, we identify Pumilo 1 (PUM1), an RNA-binding protein with no previously reported functions in erythropoiesis, as a direct posttranscriptional regulator of β-globin switching. PUM1, whose expression is regulated by the erythroid master transcription factor erythroid Krüppel-like factor (EKLF/KLF1), peaks during erythroid differentiation, binds γ-globin messenger RNA (mRNA), and reduces γ-globin (HBG1) mRNA stability and translational efficiency, which culminates in reduced γ-globin protein levels. Knockdown of PUM1 leads to a robust increase in fetal hemoglobin (∼22% HbF) without affecting β-globin levels in human erythroid cells. Importantly, targeting PUM1 does not limit the progression of erythropoiesis, which provides a potentially safe and effective treatment strategy for sickle cell anemia and β-thalassemia. In support of this idea, we report elevated levels of HbF in the absence of anemia in an individual with a novel heterozygous PUM1 mutation in the RNA-binding domain (p.(His1090Profs∗16); c.3267_3270delTCAC), which suggests that PUM1-mediated posttranscriptional regulation is a critical player during human hemoglobin switching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reem Elagooz
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Anita R. Dhara
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Rose M. Gott
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Sarah E. Adams
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Rachael A. White
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Arnab Ghosh
- Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Shinjini Ganguly
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Yuncheng Man
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Amma Owusu-Ansah
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Omar Y. Mian
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Umut A. Gurkan
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Anton A. Komar
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
- Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Mahesh Ramamoorthy
- Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Merlin Nithya Gnanapragasam
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
- Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kruppel-like Factors in Skeletal Physiology and Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315174. [PMID: 36499521 PMCID: PMC9741390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) belong to a large group of zinc finger-containing transcription factors with amino acid sequences resembling the Drosophila gap gene Krüppel. Since the first report of molecular cloning of the KLF family gene, the number of KLFs has increased rapidly. Currently, 17 murine and human KLFs are known to play crucial roles in the regulation of transcription, cell proliferation, cellular differentiation, stem cell maintenance, and tissue and organ pathogenesis. Recent evidence has shown that many KLF family molecules affect skeletal cells and regulate their differentiation and function. This review summarizes the current understanding of the unique roles of each KLF in skeletal cells during normal development and skeletal pathologies.
Collapse
|
21
|
Genetic Modifiers of Sickle Cell Disease. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:1097-1124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
22
|
Krüppel-Like Factor 1: A Pivotal Gene Regulator in Erythropoiesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193069. [PMID: 36231031 PMCID: PMC9561966 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193069] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factor 1 (KLF1) plays a crucial role in erythropoiesis. In-depth studies conducted on mice and humans have highlighted its importance in erythroid lineage commitment, terminal erythropoiesis progression and the switching of globin genes from γ to β. The role of KLF1 in haemoglobin switching is exerted by the direct activation of β-globin gene and by the silencing of γ-globin through activation of BCL11A, an important γ-globin gene repressor. The link between KLF1 and γ-globin silencing identifies this transcription factor as a possible therapeutic target for β-hemoglobinopathies. Moreover, several mutations have been identified in the human genes that are responsible for various benign phenotypes and erythroid disorders. The study of the phenotype associated with each mutation has greatly contributed to the current understanding of the complex role of KLF1 in erythropoiesis. This review will focus on some of the principal functions of KLF1 on erythroid cell commitment and differentiation, spanning from primitive to definitive erythropoiesis. The fundamental role of KLF1 in haemoglobin switching will be also highlighted. Finally, an overview of the principal human mutations and relative phenotypes and disorders will be described.
Collapse
|
23
|
Crosstalk between Glycogen-Selective Autophagy, Autophagy and Apoptosis as a Road towards Modifier Gene Discovery and New Therapeutic Strategies for Glycogen Storage Diseases. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12091396. [PMID: 36143432 PMCID: PMC9504455 DOI: 10.3390/life12091396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycogen storage diseases (GSDs) are rare metabolic monogenic disorders characterized by an excessive accumulation of glycogen in the cell. However, monogenic disorders are not simple regarding genotype–phenotype correlation. Genes outside the major disease-causing locus could have modulatory effect on GSDs, and thus explain the genotype–phenotype inconsistencies observed in these patients. Nowadays, when the sequencing of all clinically relevant genes, whole human exomes, and even whole human genomes is fast, easily available and affordable, we have a scientific obligation to holistically analyze data and draw smarter connections between genotype and phenotype. Recently, the importance of glycogen-selective autophagy for the pathophysiology of disorders of glycogen metabolism have been described. Therefore, in this manuscript, we review the potential role of genes involved in glycogen-selective autophagy as modifiers of GSDs. Given the small number of genes associated with glycogen-selective autophagy, we also include genes, transcription factors, and non-coding RNAs involved in autophagy. A cross-link with apoptosis is addressed. All these genes could be analyzed in GSD patients with unusual discrepancies between genotype and phenotype in order to discover genetic variants potentially modifying their phenotype. The discovery of modifier genes related to glycogen-selective autophagy and autophagy will start a new chapter in understanding of GSDs and enable the usage of autophagy-inducing drugs for the treatment of this group of rare-disease patients.
Collapse
|
24
|
NGS4THAL, a one-stop molecular diagnosis and carrier screening tool for thalassemia and other hemoglobinopathies by next-generation sequencing. J Mol Diagn 2022; 24:1089-1099. [PMID: 35868510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2022.06.006] [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: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Thalassemia is one of the most common genetic diseases and a major health threat worldwide. Accurate, efficient and scalable analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data is much needed for its molecular diagnosis and carrier screening. We developed NGS4THAL, a bioinformatics analysis pipeline analyzing next generation sequencing (NGS) data to detect pathogenic variants for thalassemia and other hemoglobinopathies. NGS4THAL realigns ambiguously mapped NGS reads derived from the homologous hemoglobin gene clusters for accurate detection of point mutations and small insertion/deletions (InDels). It uses a combination of complementary structural variant (SV) detection tools and an inhouse database of control data containing specific SVs to achieve accurate detection of the complex SV types. Detected variants are matched with those in HbVar database, allowing recognition of known pathogenic variants, including disease modifiers. Tested on simulation data, NGS4THAL achieved high sensitivity and specificity. For targeted NGS sequencing data from samples with laboratory-confirmed pathogenic hemoglobin variants, it achieved 100% detection accuracy. Application of NGS4THAL on whole genome sequencing data from unrelated studies revealed thalassemia mutation carrier rates for Hong Kong Chinese and Northern Vietnamese that were consistent with previous reports. NGS4THAL is a highly accurate and efficient molecular diagnosis tool for thalassemia and other hemoglobinopathies based on tailored analysis of NGS data and is potentially scalable for population carrier screening.
Collapse
|
25
|
LRF Promotes Indirectly Advantageous Chromatin Conformation via BGLT3-lncRNA Expression and Switch from Fetal to Adult Hemoglobin. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137025. [PMID: 35806029 PMCID: PMC9266405 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The hemoglobin switch from fetal (HbF) to adult (HbA) has been studied intensively as an essential model for gene expression regulation, but also as a beneficial therapeutic approach for β-hemoglobinopathies, towards the objective of reactivating HbF. The transcription factor LRF (Leukemia/lymphoma-related), encoded from the ZBTB7A gene has been implicated in fetal hemoglobin silencing, though has a wide range of functions that have not been fully clarified. We thus established the LRF/ZBTB7A-overexpressing and ZBTB7A-knockdown K562 (human erythroleukemia cell line) clones to assess fetal vs. adult hemoglobin production pre- and post-induction. Transgenic K562 clones were further developed and studied under the influence of epigenetic chromatin regulators, such as DNA methyl transferase 3 (DNMT3) and Histone Deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), to evaluate LRF’s potential disturbance upon the aberrant epigenetic background and provide valuable information of the preferable epigenetic frame, in which LRF unfolds its action on the β-type globin’s expression. The ChIP-seq analysis demonstrated that LRF binds to γ-globin genes (HBG2/1) and apparently associates BCL11A for their silencing, but also during erythropoiesis induction, LRF binds the BGLT3 gene, promoting BGLT3-lncRNA production through the γ-δ intergenic region of β-type globin’s locus, triggering the transcriptional events from γ- to β-globin switch. Our findings are supported by an up-to-date looping model, which highlights chromatin alterations during erythropoiesis at late stages of gestation, to establish an “open” chromatin conformation across the γ-δ intergenic region and accomplish β-globin expression and hemoglobin switch.
Collapse
|
26
|
Exploring the crosstalk between long non-coding RNAs and microRNAs to unravel potential prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers in β-thalassemia. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:7057-7068. [PMID: 35717472 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07629-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a prevalent monogenic disorder characterized by reduced or absent synthesis of the β-globin chain. Although great effort has been made to ameliorate the disease severity of β-thalassemic patients, progress has been stymied due to limited understanding of the detailed molecular mechanism of disease pathogenesis. Recently, non-coding RNAs have been established as key players in regulating various physiological and pathological processes. Many ncRNAs are involved in hematopoiesis and erythroid development. Furthermore, various studies have also reported the complex interplay between different ncRNAs, such as miRNA, lncRNAs, etc. in regulating disease progression and pathogenesis. Both lncRNAs and miRNAs have been identified as independent regulators of globin gene expression and are intricately involved in disease pathogenesis; yet accumulating evidence suggests that the cross-talk between lncRNAs and miRNAs is intricately involved in the underlying globin gene expression, fine-tuning the effect of their independent regulation. In this review, we summarize the current progress of research on the roles of lncRNAs and miRNAs implicated in β-thalassemia disease, including their interactions and regulatory networks. This can provide important insights into the detailed epigenetic regulation of globin gene switching and has the potential to develop novel therapeutic approaches against β-thalassemia.
Collapse
|
27
|
An Q, Fan C, Xu S. Recent perspectives of pediatric β-thalassemia. Minerva Pediatr (Torino) 2022; 74:365-372. [DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5276.18.04872-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
28
|
Andrieu-Soler C, Soler E. Erythroid Cell Research: 3D Chromatin, Transcription Factors and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116149. [PMID: 35682828 PMCID: PMC9181152 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies of the regulatory networks and signals controlling erythropoiesis have brought important insights in several research fields of biology and have been a rich source of discoveries with far-reaching implications beyond erythroid cells biology. The aim of this review is to highlight key recent discoveries and show how studies of erythroid cells bring forward novel concepts and refine current models related to genome and 3D chromatin organization, signaling and disease, with broad interest in life sciences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Soler
- IGMM, Université Montpellier, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France;
- Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Université de Paris, 75015 Paris, France
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Starlard-Davenport A, Gu Q, Pace BS. Targeting Genetic Modifiers of HBG Gene Expression in Sickle Cell Disease: The miRNA Option. Mol Diagn Ther 2022; 26:497-509. [PMID: 35553407 PMCID: PMC9098152 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-022-00589-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most common inherited hemoglobinopathy disorders that affects millions of people worldwide. Reactivation of HBG (HBG1, HBG2) gene expression and induction of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) is an important therapeutic strategy for ameliorating the clinical symptoms and severity of SCD. Hydroxyurea is the only US FDA-approved drug with proven efficacy to induce HbF in SCD patients, yet serious complications have been associated with its use. Over the last three decades, numerous additional pharmacological agents that reactivate HBG transcription in vitro have been investigated, but few have proceeded to FDA approval, with the exception of arginine butyrate and decitabine; however, neither drug met the requirements for routine clinical use due to difficulties with oral delivery and inability to achieve therapeutic levels. Thus, novel approaches that produce sufficient efficacy, specificity, and sustainable HbF induction with low adverse effects are desirable. More recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have gained attention for their diagnostic and therapeutic potential to treat various diseases ranging from cancer to Alzheimer’s disease via targeting oncogenes and their gene products. Thus, it is plausible that miRNAs that target HBG regulatory genes may be useful for inducing HbF as a treatment for SCD. Our laboratory and others have documented the association of miRNAs with HBG activation or suppression via silencing transcriptional repressors and activators, respectively, of HBG expression. Herein, we review progress made in understanding molecular mechanisms of miRNA-mediated HBG regulation and discuss the extent to which molecular targets of HBG might be suitable prospects for development of SCD clinical therapy. Lastly, we discuss challenges with the application of miRNA delivery in vivo and provide potential strategies for overcoming barriers in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athena Starlard-Davenport
- College of Medicine, Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
| | - Qingqing Gu
- College of Medicine, Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.,Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Betty S Pace
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Caulier AL, Sankaran VG. Molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate human erythropoiesis. Blood 2022; 139:2450-2459. [PMID: 34936695 PMCID: PMC9029096 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021011044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
To enable effective oxygen transport, ∼200 billion red blood cells (RBCs) need to be produced every day in the bone marrow through the fine-tuned process of erythropoiesis. Erythropoiesis is regulated at multiple levels to ensure that defective RBC maturation or overproduction can be avoided. Here, we provide an overview of different layers of this control, ranging from cytokine signaling mechanisms that enable extrinsic regulation of RBC production to intrinsic transcriptional pathways necessary for effective erythropoiesis. Recent studies have also elucidated the importance of posttranscriptional regulation and highlighted additional gatekeeping mechanisms necessary for effective erythropoiesis. We additionally discuss the insights gained by studying human genetic variation affecting erythropoiesis and highlight the discovery of BCL11A as a regulator of hemoglobin switching through genetic studies. Finally, we provide an outlook of how our ability to measure multiple facets of this process at single-cell resolution, while accounting for the impact of human variation, will continue to refine our knowledge of erythropoiesis and how this process is perturbed in disease. As we learn more about this intricate and important process, additional opportunities to modulate erythropoiesis for therapeutic purposes will undoubtedly emerge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis L Caulier
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA
| | - Vijay G Sankaran
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Wells M, Steiner L. Epigenetic and Transcriptional Control of Erythropoiesis. Front Genet 2022; 13:805265. [PMID: 35330735 PMCID: PMC8940284 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.805265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Erythropoiesis is a process of enormous magnitude, with the average person generating two to three million red cells every second. Erythroid progenitors start as large cells with large nuclei, and over the course of three to four cell divisions they undergo a dramatic decrease in cell size accompanied by profound nuclear condensation, which culminates in enucleation. As maturing erythroblasts are undergoing these dramatic phenotypic changes, they accumulate hemoglobin and express high levels of other erythroid-specific genes, while silencing much of the non-erythroid transcriptome. These phenotypic and gene expression changes are associated with distinct changes in the chromatin landscape, and require close coordination between transcription factors and epigenetic regulators, as well as precise regulation of RNA polymerase II activity. Disruption of these processes are associated with inherited anemias and myelodysplastic syndromes. Here, we review the epigenetic mechanisms that govern terminal erythroid maturation, and their role in human disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maeve Wells
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Laurie Steiner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Trudel G, Shahin N, Ramsay T, Laneuville O, Louati H. Hemolysis contributes to anemia during long-duration space flight. Nat Med 2022; 28:59-62. [PMID: 35031790 PMCID: PMC8799460 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-021-01637-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Anemia in astronauts has been noted since the first space missions, but the mechanisms contributing to anemia in space flight have remained unclear. Here, we show that space flight is associated with persistently increased levels of products of hemoglobin degradation, carbon monoxide in alveolar air and iron in serum, in 14 astronauts throughout their 6-month missions onboard the International Space Station. One year after landing, erythrocytic effects persisted, including increased levels of hemolysis, reticulocytosis and hemoglobin. These findings suggest that the destruction of red blood cells, termed hemolysis, is a primary effect of microgravity in space flight and support the hypothesis that the anemia associated with space flight is a hemolytic condition that should be considered in the screening and monitoring of both astronauts and space tourists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guy Trudel
- Bone and Joint Research Laboratory, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. .,Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Nibras Shahin
- Bone and Joint Research Laboratory, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Timothy Ramsay
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Odette Laneuville
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Onatrio, Canada
| | - Hakim Louati
- Bone and Joint Research Laboratory, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Epigenomic analysis of KLF1 haploinsufficiency in primary human erythroblasts. Sci Rep 2022; 12:336. [PMID: 35013432 PMCID: PMC8748495 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04126-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Haploinsufficiency for the erythroid-specific transcription factor KLF1 is associated with hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH). Increased HbF ameliorates the symptoms of β-hemoglobinopathies and downregulation of KLF1 activity has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy. However, the feasibility of this approach has been challenged by the observation that KLF1 haploinsufficient individuals with the same KLF1 variant, within the same family, display a wide range of HbF levels. This phenotypic variability is not readily explained by co-inheritance of known HbF-modulating variants in the HBB, HBS1L-MYB and/or BCL11A loci. We studied cultured erythroid progenitors obtained from Maltese individuals in which KLF1 p.K288X carriers display HbF levels ranging between 1.3 and 12.3% of total Hb. Using a combination of gene expression analysis, chromatin accessibility assays and promoter activity tests we find that variation in expression of the wildtype KLF1 allele may explain a significant part of the variability in HbF levels observed in KLF1 haploinsufficiency. Our results have general bearing on the variable penetrance of haploinsufficiency phenotypes and on conflicting interpretations of pathogenicity of variants in other transcriptional regulators such as EP300, GATA2 and RUNX1.
Collapse
|
34
|
Jaing TH, Chang TY, Chen SH, Lin CW, Wen YC, Chiu CC. Molecular genetics of β-thalassemia: A narrative review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e27522. [PMID: 34766559 PMCID: PMC8589257 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000027522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT β-thalassemia is a hereditary hematological disease caused by over 350 mutations in the β-globin gene (HBB). Identifying the genetic variants affecting fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production combined with the α-globin genotype provides some prediction of disease severity for β-thalassemia. However, the generation of an additive composite genetic risk score predicts prognosis, and guide management requires a larger panel of genetic modifiers yet to be discovered.Presently, using data from prior clinical trials guides the design of further research and academic studies based on gene augmentation, while fundamental insights into globin switching and new technology developments have inspired the investigation of novel gene therapy approaches.Genetic studies have successfully characterized the causal variants and pathways involved in HbF regulation, providing novel therapeutic targets for HbF reactivation. In addition to these HBB mutation-independent strategies involving HbF synthesis de-repression, the expanding genome editing toolkit provides increased accuracy to HBB mutation-specific strategies encompassing adult hemoglobin restoration for personalized treatment of hemoglobinopathies. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was, until very recently, the curative option available for patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia. Gene therapy currently represents a novel therapeutic promise after many years of extensive preclinical research to optimize gene transfer protocols.We summarize the current state of developments in the molecular genetics of β-thalassemia over the last decade, including the mechanisms associated with ineffective erythropoiesis, which have also provided valid therapeutic targets, some of which have been shown as a proof-of-concept.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tang-Her Jaing
- Divisions of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Yen Chang
- Divisions of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hsiang Chen
- Divisions of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Wei Lin
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chuan Wen
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Chiu
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mussolino C, Strouboulis J. Recent Approaches for Manipulating Globin Gene Expression in Treating Hemoglobinopathies. Front Genome Ed 2021; 3:618111. [PMID: 34713248 PMCID: PMC8525358 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2021.618111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue oxygenation throughout life depends on the activity of hemoglobin (Hb) one of the hemeproteins that binds oxygen in the lungs and secures its delivery throughout the body. Hb is composed of four monomers encoded by eight different genes the expression of which is tightly regulated during development, resulting in the formation of distinct hemoglobin tetramers in each developmental stage. Mutations that alter hemoglobin structure or its regulated expression result in a large group of diseases typically referred to as hemoglobinopathies that are amongst the most common genetic defects worldwide. Unprecedented efforts in the last decades have partially unraveled the complex mechanisms that control globin gene expression throughout development. In addition, genome wide association studies have revealed protective genetic traits capable of ameliorating the clinical manifestations of severe hemoglobinopathies. This knowledge has fueled the exploration of innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at modifying the genome or the epigenome of the affected cells to either restore hemoglobin function or to mimic the effect of protective traits. Here we describe the key steps that control the switch in gene expression that concerns the different globin genes during development and highlight the latest efforts in altering globin regulation for therapeutic purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Mussolino
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Gene Therapy, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - John Strouboulis
- Laboratory of Molecular Erythropoiesis, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Barbarani G, Łabedz A, Ronchi AE. β-Hemoglobinopathies: The Test Bench for Genome Editing-Based Therapeutic Strategies. Front Genome Ed 2021; 2:571239. [PMID: 34713219 PMCID: PMC8525389 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2020.571239] [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: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemoglobin is a tetrameric protein composed of two α and two β chains, each containing a heme group that reversibly binds oxygen. The composition of hemoglobin changes during development in order to fulfill the need of the growing organism, stably maintaining a balanced production of α-like and β-like chains in a 1:1 ratio. Adult hemoglobin (HbA) is composed of two α and two β subunits (α2β2 tetramer), whereas fetal hemoglobin (HbF) is composed of two γ and two α subunits (α2γ2 tetramer). Qualitative or quantitative defects in β-globin production cause two of the most common monogenic-inherited disorders: β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. The high frequency of these diseases and the relative accessibility of hematopoietic stem cells make them an ideal candidate for therapeutic interventions based on genome editing. These strategies move in two directions: the correction of the disease-causing mutation and the reactivation of the expression of HbF in adult cells, in the attempt to recreate the effect of hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH) natural mutations, which mitigate the severity of β-hemoglobinopathies. Both lines of research rely on the knowledge gained so far on the regulatory mechanisms controlling the differential expression of globin genes during development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Barbarani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Agata Łabedz
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Eernstman J, Veldhuisen B, Ligthart P, von Lindern M, van der Schoot CE, van den Akker E. Novel variants in Krueppel like factor 1 that cause persistence of fetal hemoglobin in In(Lu) individuals. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18557. [PMID: 34535703 PMCID: PMC8448862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97149-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Beta-hemoglobinopathies become prominent after birth due to a switch from γ-globin to the mutated β-globin. Haploinsufficiency for the erythroid specific indispensable transcription factor Krueppel-like factor 1 (KLF1) is associated with high persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH). The In(Lu) phenotype, characterized by low to undetectable Lutheran blood group expression is caused by mutations within KLF1 gene. Here we screened a blood donor cohort of 55 Lutheran weak or negative donors for KLF1 variants and evaluated their effect on KLF1 target gene expression. To discriminate between weak and negative Lutheran expression, a flow cytometry (FCM) assay was developed to detect Lu antigen expression. The Lu(a-b-) (negative) donor group, showing a significant decreased CD44 (Indian blood group) expression, also showed increased HbF and HbA2 levels, with one individual expressing HbF as high as 5%. KLF1 exons and promoter sequencing revealed variants in 80% of the Lutheran negative donors. Thirteen different variants plus one high frequency SNP (c.304 T > C) were identified of which 6 were novel. In primary erythroblasts, knockdown of endogenous KLF1 resulted in decreased CD44, Lu and increased HbF expression, while KLF1 over-expressing cells were comparable to wild type (WT). In line with the pleiotropic effects of KLF1 during erythropoiesis, distinct KLF1 mutants expressed in erythroblasts display different abilities to rescue CD44 and Lu expression and/or to affect fetal (HbF) or adult (HbA) hemoglobin expression. With this study we identified novel KLF1 variants to be include into blood group typing analysis. In addition, we provide further insights into the regulation of genes by KLF1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Eernstman
- Sanquin Research, Department of Hematopoiesis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Sanquin Research, department of Immunohematology Experimental, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Barbera Veldhuisen
- Sanquin Research, department of Immunohematology Experimental, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Immunohematology Experimental, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Ligthart
- Sanquin Research, department of Immunohematology Experimental, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Immunohematology Experimental, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke von Lindern
- Sanquin Research, Department of Hematopoiesis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Sanquin Research, department of Immunohematology Experimental, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Ellen van der Schoot
- Sanquin Research, department of Immunohematology Experimental, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Immunohematology Experimental, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emile van den Akker
- Sanquin Research, Department of Hematopoiesis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Sanquin Research, department of Immunohematology Experimental, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Khamphikham P, Jearawiriyapaisarn N, Tangprasittipap A, Hongeng S. Downregulation of KLF4 activates embryonic and fetal globin mRNA expression in human erythroid progenitor cells. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1105. [PMID: 34504559 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The Krüppel-like factor (KLF) family dominates highly conserved three zinc finger DNA binding domains at the C-terminus and variable transactivation domains at the N-terminus. Humans possess 18 KLF genes that are differentially expressed in various tissues. Several KLFs recognize a specific CACCC DNA motif that is commonly found within hematopoietic-specific promoters. To investigate those KLFs that are involved in human hemoglobin (Hb) switching, the present study analyzed a previous microarray data set from fetal and adult erythroid cells and validated the mRNA expression levels of 18 KLFs by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). KLF with a decreased expression level in the fetuses was selected for a functional study in human erythroid progenitor cells using lentiviral-based short hairpin RNA knockdown. The fetuses demonstrated a lower level of KLF4 mRNA expression when compared with the adults. Downregulation of KLF4 in erythroid progenitor cells from healthy individuals and individuals with β0-thalassemia/HbE evidenced the increasing embryonic and fetal globin mRNA expression with neither significant cytotoxicity nor gene expression alteration of the examined globin regulators, KLF1, B-cell lymphoma/leukemia 11A and lymphoma/leukemia-related factor. These findings demonstrate that the downregulation of KLF4 is associated with increased embryonic and fetal globin gene expression in human erythroid progenitor cells. Moreover, identifying putative compounds or molecular approaches that effectively downregulate KLF4 and further induce embryonic globin expression may provide an alternative therapeutic strategy for α-globin substitution in severe α-thalassemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pinyaphat Khamphikham
- Department of Forensic Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani 12121, Thailand.,Division of Clinical Microscopy, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Natee Jearawiriyapaisarn
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Amornrat Tangprasittipap
- Office of Research, Academic Affairs and Innovations, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Suradej Hongeng
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Industrially Compatible Transfusable iPSC-Derived RBCs: Progress, Challenges and Prospective Solutions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189808. [PMID: 34575977 PMCID: PMC8472628 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Amidst the global shortfalls in blood supply, storage limitations of donor blood and the availability of potential blood substitutes for transfusion applications, society has pivoted towards in vitro generation of red blood cells (RBCs) as a means to solve these issues. Many conventional research studies over the past few decades have found success in differentiating hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) from cord blood, adult bone marrow and peripheral blood sources. More recently, techniques that involve immortalization of erythroblast sources have also gained traction in tackling this problem. However, the RBCs generated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) still remain as the most favorable solution due to many of its added advantages. In this review, we focus on the breakthroughs for high-density cultures of hiPSC-derived RBCs, and highlight the major challenges and prospective solutions throughout the whole process of erythropoiesis for hiPSC-derived RBCs. Furthermore, we elaborate on the recent advances and techniques used to achieve cost-effective, high-density cultures of GMP-compliant RBCs, and on their relevant novel applications after downstream processing and purification.
Collapse
|
40
|
Wang H, Chen M, Xu S, Pan Y, Zhang Y, Huang H, Xu L. Abnormal regulation of microRNAs and related genes in pediatric β-thalassemia. J Clin Lab Anal 2021; 35:e23945. [PMID: 34398996 PMCID: PMC8418487 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.23945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background MicroRNAs (miRNAs) participate in the reactivation of γ‐globin expression in β‐thalassemia. However, the miRNA transcriptional profiles of pediatric β‐thalassemia remain unclear. Accordingly, in this study, we assessed miRNA expression in pediatric patients with β‐thalassemia. Methods Differentially expressed miRNAs in pediatric patients with β‐thalassemia were determined using microRNA sequencing. Results Hsa‐miR‐483‐3p, hsa‐let‐7f‐1‐3p, hsa‐let‐7a‐3p, hsa‐miR‐543, hsa‐miR‐433‐3p, hsa‐miR‐4435, hsa‐miR‐329‐3p, hsa‐miR‐92b‐5p, hsa‐miR‐6747‐3p and hsa‐miR‐495‐3p were significantly upregulated, whereas hsa‐miR‐4508, hsa‐miR‐20a‐5p, hsa‐let‐7b‐5p, hsa‐miR‐93‐5p, hsa‐let‐7i‐5p, hsa‐miR‐6501‐5p, hsa‐miR‐221‐3p, hsa‐let‐7g‐5p, hsa‐miR‐106a‐5p, and hsa‐miR‐17‐5p were significantly downregulated in pediatric patients with β‐thalassemia. After integrating our data with a previously published dataset, we found that hsa‐let‐7b‐5p and hsa‐let‐7i‐5p expression levels were also lower in adolescent or adult patients with β‐thalassemia. The predicted target genes of hsa‐let‐7b‐5p and hsa‐let‐7i‐5p were associated with the transforming growth factor β receptor, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/AKT, FoxO, Hippo, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathways. We also identified 12 target genes of hsa‐let‐7a‐3p and hsa‐let‐7f‐1‐3p and 21 target genes of hsa‐let‐7a‐3p and hsa‐let‐7f‐1‐3p, which were differentially expressed in patients with β‐thalassemia. Finally, we found that hsa‐miR‐190‐5p and hsa‐miR‐1278‐5p may regulate hemoglobin switching by modulation of the B‐cell lymphoma/leukemia 11A gene. Conclusion The results of the study show that several microRNAs are dysregulated in pediatric β‐thalassemia. Further, the results also indicate toward a critical role of let7 miRNAs in the pathogenesis of pediatric β‐thalassemia, which needs to be investigated further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haiwei Wang
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Meihuan Chen
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shiyi Xu
- Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yali Pan
- Medical Technology and Engineering College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yanhong Zhang
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hailong Huang
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liangpu Xu
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Starlard-Davenport A, Fitzgerald A, Pace BS. Exploring epigenetic and microRNA approaches for γ-globin gene regulation. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2021; 246:2347-2357. [PMID: 34292080 DOI: 10.1177/15353702211028195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic interventions aimed at inducing fetal hemoglobin and reducing the concentration of sickle hemoglobin is an effective approach to ameliorating acute and chronic complications of sickle cell disease, exemplified by the long-term use of hydroxyurea. However, there remains an unmet need for the development of additional safe and effective drugs for single agent or combination therapy for individuals with β-hemoglobinopathies. Regulation of the γ-globin to β-globin switch is achieved by chromatin remodeling at the HBB locus on chromosome 11 and interactions of major DNA binding proteins, such as KLF1 and BCL11A in the proximal promoters of the globin genes. Experimental evidence also supports a role of epigenetic modifications including DNA methylation, histone acetylation/methylation, and microRNA expression in γ-globin gene silencing during development. In this review, we will critically evaluate the role of epigenetic mechanisms in γ-globin gene regulation and discuss data generated in tissue culture, pre-clinical animal models, and clinical trials to support drug development to date. The question remains whether modulation of epigenetic pathways will produce sufficient efficacy and specificity for fetal hemoglobin induction and to what extent targeting these pathways form the basis of prospects for clinical therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athena Starlard-Davenport
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Ashley Fitzgerald
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Betty S Pace
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Tangsricharoen T, Natesirinilkul R, Phusua A, Fanhchaksai K, Ittiwut C, Chetruengchai W, Juntharaniyom M, Charoenkwan P, Viprakasit V, Phokaew C, Shotelersuk V. Severe neonatal haemolytic anaemia caused by compound heterozygous KLF1 mutations: report of four families and literature review. Br J Haematol 2021; 194:626-634. [PMID: 34227100 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17616] [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: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the KLF1 gene, which encodes a transcription factor playing a role in erythropoiesis, have recently been demonstrated to be a rare cause of hereditary haemolytic anaemia. We described the genotypic and phenotypic spectra of four unrelated families with compound heterozygous class 2/class 3 KLF1 mutations. All patients had p.G176RfsX179 on one allele and either p.A298P, p.R301H or p.G335R on the other allele. All presented on the first day of life with severe haemolytic anaemia with abnormal red blood cell morphology, markedly increased nucleated red blood cells and hyperbilirubinaemia. Three patients later became transfusion-dependent. All parents with heterozygous KLF1 mutation without co-inherited thalassaemia had normal to borderline mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and normal to slightly elevated Hb F. Fifteen previously reported cases of biallelic KLF1 mutations were identified from a literature review. All except one presented with severe haemolytic anaemia in the neonatal period. Our finding substantiates that compound heterozygous KLF1 mutations are associated with severe neonatal haemolytic anaemia and expands the haematologic phenotypic spectrum. In carriers, the previously suggested findings of low MCV, high Hb A2 and high Hb F are inconsistent; thus this necessitates molecular studies for the identification of carriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanu Tangsricharoen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Rungrote Natesirinilkul
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Arunee Phusua
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kanda Fanhchaksai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Chupong Ittiwut
- Department of Pediatrics, Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Medical Genomics Cluster, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wanna Chetruengchai
- Department of Pediatrics, Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Medical Genomics Cluster, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Monthana Juntharaniyom
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Khon Kaen Regional Hospital, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Pimlak Charoenkwan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Vip Viprakasit
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chureerat Phokaew
- Department of Pediatrics, Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Medical Genomics Cluster, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Vorasuk Shotelersuk
- Department of Pediatrics, Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Medical Genomics Cluster, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Pace BS, Perrine S, Li B, Makala L, Xu H, Takezaki M, Wolf RF, Wang A, Xu X, Huang J, Alimardanov A, Tawa GJ, Sangerman J, Faller A, Zheng W, Toney L, Haugabook SJ. Benserazide racemate and enantiomers induce fetal globin gene expression in vivo: Studies to guide clinical development for beta thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2021; 89:102561. [PMID: 33744514 PMCID: PMC8409227 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2021.102561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Increased expression of developmentally silenced fetal globin (HBG) reduces the clinical severity of β-hemoglobinopathies. Benserazide has a relatively benign safety profile having been approved for 50 years in Europe and Canada for Parkinson's disease treatment. Benserazide was shown to activate HBG gene transcription in a high throughput screen, and subsequent studies confirmed fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction in erythroid progenitors from hemoglobinopathy patients, transgenic mice containing the entire human β-globin gene (β-YAC) and anemic baboons. The goal of this study is to evaluate efficacies and plasma exposure profiles of benserazide racemate and its enantiomers to select the chemical form for clinical development. Intermittent treatment with all forms of benserazide in β-YAC mice significantly increased proportions of red blood cells expressing HbF and HbF protein per cell with similar pharmacokinetic profiles and with no cytopenia. These data contribute to the regulatory justification for development of the benserazide racemate. Additionally, dose ranges and frequencies required for HbF induction using racemic benserazide were explored. Orally administered escalating doses of benserazide in an anemic baboon induced γ-globin mRNA up to 13-fold and establish an intermittent dose regimen for clinical studies as a therapeutic candidate for potential treatment of β-hemoglobinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Betty S Pace
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Susan Perrine
- Phoenicia BioSciences, Weston, MA 02493, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hemoglobinopathy Thalassemia Research Unit, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Biaoru Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Levi Makala
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Mayuko Takezaki
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Roman F Wolf
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Amy Wang
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Xin Xu
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Junfeng Huang
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Asaf Alimardanov
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Gregory J Tawa
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jose Sangerman
- Phoenicia BioSciences, Weston, MA 02493, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hemoglobinopathy Thalassemia Research Unit, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Aidan Faller
- Phoenicia BioSciences, Weston, MA 02493, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hemoglobinopathy Thalassemia Research Unit, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Wei Zheng
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - London Toney
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sharie J Haugabook
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Xu L, Zhu D, Zhang Y, Liang G, Liang M, Wei X, Feng X, Wu X, Shang X. Compound Heterozygosity for KLF1 Mutations Causing Hemolytic Anemia in Children: A Case Report and Literature Review. Front Genet 2021; 12:691461. [PMID: 34249106 PMCID: PMC8267787 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.691461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anemia is one of the most common diseases affecting children worldwide. Hereditary forms of anemia due to gene mutations are difficult to diagnose because they only rely on clinical manifestations. In regions with high prevalence of thalassemia such as southern China, pediatric patients with a hereditary hemolytic anemia (HHA) phenotype are often diagnosed with β-thalassemia. However, HHA can be caused by other gene defects. Here, a case previously diagnosed with thalassemia in a local hospital was sent to our laboratory for further genetic diagnosis. Preliminary molecular testing did not identify any mutations in globin genes. Methods All blood samples were collected after informed consent had been obtain from the proband’s parents. Both clinical and genetic analyses were conducted for the patient and her family members, including clinical data collection and sequencing of the KLF1 gene. Relevant literature was reviewed, including genetically confirmed cases with well-documented clinical summaries. Results Based on the detailed clinical data for this case, we diagnosed the patient with severe HHA. Sanger sequencing confirmed that there was a mutation on each KLF1 allele in the proband, which is missense mutation c.892G > C (p.Ala298Pro) inherited from father and frameshift mutation c.525_526insCGGCGCC (p.Gly176Argfs∗179) from the mother, respectively. A summary of the KLF1 mutation spectrum and a clarification of genotype–phenotype correlation were performed through a combined analysis of the case and literature studies. Conclusion This study corrected the misdiagnosis and identified the etiology in a Chinese patient with HHA. Identification of the disease-causing gene is important for the treatment and care of the patient and prevention of another affected childbirth in her family. In addition, this study provided insight to better distinguish HHA patients with β-thalassemia mutations from those with KLF1 mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Xu
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dina Zhu
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanxia Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guanxia Liang
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Liang
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wei
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqing Feng
- Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuedong Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Shang
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Cheng L, Li Y, Qi Q, Xu P, Feng R, Palmer L, Chen J, Wu R, Yee T, Zhang J, Yao Y, Sharma A, Hardison RC, Weiss MJ, Cheng Y. Single-nucleotide-level mapping of DNA regulatory elements that control fetal hemoglobin expression. Nat Genet 2021; 53:869-880. [PMID: 33958780 PMCID: PMC8628368 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-021-00861-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Pinpointing functional noncoding DNA sequences and defining their contributions to health-related traits is a major challenge for modern genetics. We developed a high-throughput framework to map noncoding DNA functions with single-nucleotide resolution in four loci that control erythroid fetal hemoglobin (HbF) expression, a genetically determined trait that modifies sickle cell disease (SCD) phenotypes. Specifically, we used the adenine base editor ABEmax to introduce 10,156 separate A•T to G•C conversions in 307 predicted regulatory elements and quantified the effects on erythroid HbF expression. We identified numerous regulatory elements, defined their epigenomic structures and linked them to low-frequency variants associated with HbF expression in an SCD cohort. Targeting a newly discovered γ-globin gene repressor element in SCD donor CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors raised HbF levels in the erythroid progeny, inhibiting hypoxia-induced sickling. Our findings reveal previously unappreciated genetic complexities of HbF regulation and provide potentially therapeutic insights into SCD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Cheng
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Yichao Li
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Qian Qi
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ruopeng Feng
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Lance Palmer
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jingjing Chen
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ruiqiong Wu
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Tiffany Yee
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Yu Yao
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Akshay Sharma
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ross C Hardison
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Mitchell J Weiss
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | - Yong Cheng
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Grech L, Borg K, Borg J. Novel therapies in β-thalassaemia. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 88:2509-2524. [PMID: 34004015 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-thalassaemia is one of the most significant haemoglobinopathies worldwide resulting in the synthesis of little or no β-globin chains. Without treatment, β-thalassaemia major is lethal within the first decade of life due to the complex pathophysiology, which leads to wide clinical manifestations. Current clinical management for these patients depends on repeated transfusions followed by iron-chelating therapy. Several novel approaches to correct the resulting α/β-globin chain imbalance, treat ineffective erythropoiesis and improve iron overload are currently being developed. Up to now, the only curative treatment for β-thalassemia is haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation, but this is a risky and costly procedure. Gene therapy, gene editing and base editing are emerging as a powerful approach to treat this disease. In β-thalassaemia, gene therapy involves the insertion of a vector containing the normal β-globin or γ-globin gene into haematopoietic stem cells to permanently produce normal red blood cells. Gene editing and base editing involves the use of zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like nucleases and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/Cas9 to either correct the causative mutation or else insert a single nucleotide variant that will increase foetal haemoglobin. In this review, we will examine the current management strategies used to treat β-thalassaemia and focus on the novel therapies targeting ineffective erythropoiesis, improving iron overload and correction of the globin chain imbalance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Grech
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Biobanking, University of Malta, Malta
| | - Karen Borg
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Ministry for Health, Malta
| | - Joseph Borg
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Biobanking, University of Malta, Malta.,Applied Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Malta
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Ali H, Khan F, Ghulam Musharraf S. Acyclovir induces fetal hemoglobin via downregulation of γ-globin repressors, BCL11A and SOX6 trans-acting factors. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 190:114612. [PMID: 34010599 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological reactivation of developmentally silenced fetal hemoglobin (HbF) is an attractive approach to ameliorate the clinical manifestations of β-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. Hydroxyurea, the only HbF inducer, has obtained regulatory approval. However, hydroxyurea non-responders and associated myelosuppression making its widespread use undesirable. A high level of HbF with safe and effective agents remains an elusive therapeutic goal for this global health burden. This study demonstrated the effect of acyclovir on γ-globin expression and erythropoiesis, associated with increased HbF production. In vitro, human erythroleukemia cells and human CD34+ erythroid progenitors, and in vivo β-YAC transgenic mice were used as experimental models. We found that acyclovir significantly induces expression of the γ-globin gene and HbF synthesis in CD34+ erythroid progenitors, without affecting terminal erythroid differentiation and erythroid cell proliferation. In contrast to other HbF inducers, no associated cytotoxicity with acyclovir was observed. Further, we reported the effect of acyclovir on γ-globin gene transcriptional regulators including BCL11A, FOP1, KLF1 SOX6, and GATA-1. Significant downregulation of the γ-globin repressors BCL11A and SOX6 was observed at both mRNA and protein levels. Whereas, GATA-1, a master erythroid transcription factor, was upregulated in acyclovir treated human CD34+ erythroid culture. Similarly, the HbF inducing effect of acyclovir in β-YAC transgenic mice revealed a good in vitro correlation, with a substantial increase in fetal globin mRNA, and F cells population. These findings collectively suggest acyclovir as an effective HbF inducer and pave the way to evaluate its clinical efficacy in treating β-globin disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamad Ali
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Faisal Khan
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Syed Ghulam Musharraf
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan; H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wessels MW, Cnossen MH, van Dijk TB, Gillemans N, Schmidt KLJ, van Lom K, Vinjamur DS, Coyne S, Kurita R, Nakamura Y, de Man SA, Pfundt R, Azmani Z, Brouwer RWW, Bauer DE, van den Hout MCGN, van IJcken WFJ, Philipsen S. Molecular analysis of the erythroid phenotype of a patient with BCL11A haploinsufficiency. Blood Adv 2021; 5:2339-2349. [PMID: 33938942 PMCID: PMC8114548 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020003753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The BCL11A gene encodes a transcriptional repressor with essential functions in multiple tissues during human development. Haploinsufficiency for BCL11A causes Dias-Logan syndrome (OMIM 617101), an intellectual developmental disorder with hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH). Due to the severe phenotype, disease-causing variants in BCL11A occur de novo. We describe a patient with a de novo heterozygous variant, c.1453G>T, in the BCL11A gene, resulting in truncation of the BCL11A-XL protein (p.Glu485X). The truncated protein lacks the 3 C-terminal DNA-binding zinc fingers and the nuclear localization signal, rendering it inactive. The patient displayed high fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels (12.1-18.7% of total hemoglobin), in contrast to the parents who had HbF levels of 0.3%. We used cultures of patient-derived erythroid progenitors to determine changes in gene expression and chromatin accessibility. In addition, we investigated DNA methylation of the promoters of the γ-globin genes HBG1 and HBG2. HUDEP1 and HUDEP2 cells were used as models for fetal and adult human erythropoiesis, respectively. Similar to HUDEP1 cells, the patient's cells displayed Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin (ATAC) peaks at the HBG1/2 promoters and significant expression of HBG1/2 genes. In contrast, HBG1/2 promoter methylation and genome-wide gene expression profiling were consistent with normal adult erythropoiesis. We conclude that HPFH is the major erythroid phenotype of constitutive BCL11A haploinsufficiency. Given the essential functions of BCL11A in other hematopoietic lineages and the neuronal system, erythroid-specific targeting of the BCL11A gene has been proposed for reactivation of γ-globin expression in β-hemoglobinopathy patients. Our data strongly support this approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marjon H Cnossen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
| | - Thamar B van Dijk
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
| | - Nynke Gillemans
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
| | - K L Juliëtte Schmidt
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
| | - Kirsten van Lom
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Divya S Vinjamur
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Steven Coyne
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ryo Kurita
- Department of Research and Development, Central Blood Institute, Blood Service Headquarters, Japanese Red Cross Society, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukio Nakamura
- Cell Engineering Division, RIKEN, BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Stella A de Man
- Department of Pediatrics, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Rolph Pfundt
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; and
| | - Zakia Azmani
- Department of Cell Biology, and
- Center for Biomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rutger W W Brouwer
- Department of Cell Biology, and
- Center for Biomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel E Bauer
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Wilfred F J van IJcken
- Department of Cell Biology, and
- Center for Biomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjaak Philipsen
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Small amounts of fetal hemoglobin can be expressed in a subset of adult red blood cells called F-cells. This review examines the potential mechanisms and clinical implications of the heterogeneity of fetal hemoglobin expression. RECENT FINDINGS Although the heterocellular nature of fetal hemoglobin expression in adult red blood cells has been noted for over 70 years, the molecular basis of this phenomenon has been unclear. Recent discoveries of novel regulators of fetal hemoglobin as well as technological advances have shed new light on these cells. SUMMARY Fetal hemoglobin reactivation in adult red blood cells through genetic or pharmacological approaches can involve both increasing the number of F-cells and cellular fetal hemoglobin content. New technologies enable the study and eventually the improvement of these parameters in patients with sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Khandros
- Division of Hematology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Barbarani G, Labedz A, Stucchi S, Abbiati A, Ronchi AE. Physiological and Aberrant γ-Globin Transcription During Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:640060. [PMID: 33869190 PMCID: PMC8047207 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.640060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of the fetal Gγ- and Aγ-globin genes in normal development is confined to the fetal period, where two γ-globin chains assemble with two α-globin chains to form α2γ2 tetramers (HbF). HbF sustains oxygen delivery to tissues until birth, when β-globin replaces γ-globin, leading to the formation of α2β2 tetramers (HbA). However, in different benign and pathological conditions, HbF is expressed in adult cells, as it happens in the hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin, in anemias and in some leukemias. The molecular basis of γ-globin differential expression in the fetus and of its inappropriate activation in adult cells is largely unknown, although in recent years, a few transcription factors involved in this process have been identified. The recent discovery that fetal cells can persist to adulthood and contribute to disease raises the possibility that postnatal γ-globin expression could, in some cases, represent the signature of the fetal cellular origin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Barbarani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Agata Labedz
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Sarah Stucchi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessia Abbiati
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonella E Ronchi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|