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Mielnicka M, Tabaro F, Sureka R, Acurzio B, Paoletti R, Scavizzi F, Raspa M, Crevenna AH, Lapouge K, Remans K, Boulard M. Trim66's paternal deficiency causes intrauterine overgrowth. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302512. [PMID: 38719749 PMCID: PMC11077763 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The tripartite motif-containing protein 66 (TRIM66, also known as TIF1-delta) is a PHD-Bromo-containing protein primarily expressed in post-meiotic male germ cells known as spermatids. Biophysical assays showed that the TRIM66 PHD-Bromodomain binds to H3 N-terminus only when lysine 4 is unmethylated. We addressed TRIM66's role in reproduction by loss-of-function genetics in the mouse. Males homozygous for Trim66-null mutations produced functional spermatozoa. Round spermatids lacking TRIM66 up-regulated a network of genes involved in histone acetylation and H3K4 methylation. Profiling of H3K4me3 patterns in the sperm produced by the Trim66-null mutant showed minor alterations below statistical significance. Unexpectedly, Trim66-null males, but not females, sired pups overweight at birth, hence revealing that Trim66 mutations cause a paternal effect phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Mielnicka
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Francesco Tabaro
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Rahul Sureka
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Basilia Acurzio
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Scavizzi
- National Research Council (IBBC), CNR-Campus International Development (EMMA-INFRAFRONTIER-IMPC), Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Marcello Raspa
- National Research Council (IBBC), CNR-Campus International Development (EMMA-INFRAFRONTIER-IMPC), Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Alvaro H Crevenna
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Karine Lapouge
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Protein Expression and Purification Core Facility, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kim Remans
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Protein Expression and Purification Core Facility, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthieu Boulard
- https://ror.org/01yr73893 Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, EMBL Rome, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy
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2
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Ferrer P, Upadhyay S, Cai JJ, Clement TM. Novel Nuclear Roles for Testis-Specific ACTL7A and ACTL7B Supported by In Vivo Characterizations and AI Facilitated In Silico Mechanistic Modeling with Implications for Epigenetic Regulation in Spermiogenesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.29.582797. [PMID: 38464253 PMCID: PMC10925299 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.29.582797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
A mechanistic role for nuclear function of testis-specific actin related proteins (ARPs) is proposed here through contributions of ARP subunit swapping in canonical chromatin regulatory complexes. This is significant to our understanding of both mechanisms controlling regulation of spermiogenesis, and the expanding functional roles of the ARPs in cell biology. Among these roles, actins and ARPs are pivotal not only in cytoskeletal regulation, but also in intranuclear chromatin organization, influencing gene regulation and nucleosome remodeling. This study focuses on two testis-specific ARPs, ACTL7A and ACTL7B, exploring their intranuclear activities and broader implications utilizing combined in vivo, in vitro, and in silico approaches. ACTL7A and ACTL7B, previously associated with structural roles, are hypothesized here to serve in chromatin regulation during germline development. This study confirms the intranuclear presence of ACTL7B in spermatocytes and round spermatids, revealing a potential role in intranuclear processes, and identifies a putative nuclear localization sequence conserved across mammalian ACTL7B, indicating a potentially unique mode of nuclear transport which differs from conventional actin. Ablation of ACTL7B leads to varied transcriptional changes reported here. Additionally, in the absence of ACTL7A or ACTL7B there is a loss of intranuclear localization of HDAC1 and HDAC3, which are known regulators of epigenetic associated acetylation changes that in turn regulate gene expression. Thus, these HDACs are implicated as contributors to the aberrant gene expression observed in the KO mouse testis transcriptomic analysis. Furthermore, this study employed and confirmed the accuracy of in silico models to predict ARP interactions with Helicase-SANT-associated (HSA) domains, uncovering putative roles for testis-specific ARPs in nucleosome remodeling complexes. In these models, ACTL7A and ACTL7B were found capable of binding to INO80 and SWI/SNF nucleosome remodeler family members in a manner akin to nuclear actin and ACTL6A. These models thus implicate germline-specific ARP subunit swapping within chromatin regulatory complexes as a potential regulatory mechanism for chromatin and associated molecular machinery adaptations in nuclear reorganizations required during spermiogenesis. These results hold implications for male fertility and epigenetic programing in the male-germline that warrant significant future investigation. In summary, this study reveals that ACTL7A and ACTL7B play intranuclear gene regulation roles in male gametogenesis, adding to the multifaceted roles identified also spanning structural, acrosomal, and flagellar stability. ACTL7A and ACTL7B unique nuclear transport, impact on HDAC nuclear associations, impact on transcriptional processes, and proposed mechanism for involvement in nucleosome remodeling complexes supported by AI facilitated in silico modeling contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the indispensable functions of ARPs broadly in cell biology, and specifically in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Ferrer
- Interdisciplinary Faculty of Toxicology Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Srijana Upadhyay
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - James J Cai
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Tracy M Clement
- Interdisciplinary Faculty of Toxicology Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
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Vukic M, Chouaref J, Della Chiara V, Dogan S, Ratner F, Hogenboom JZM, Epp TA, Chawengsaksophak K, Vonk KKD, Breukel C, Ariyurek Y, San Leon Granado D, Kloet SL, Daxinger L. CDCA7-associated global aberrant DNA hypomethylation translates to localized, tissue-specific transcriptional responses. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk3384. [PMID: 38335290 PMCID: PMC10857554 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk3384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Disruption of cell division cycle associated 7 (CDCA7) has been linked to aberrant DNA hypomethylation, but the impact of DNA methylation loss on transcription has not been investigated. Here, we show that CDCA7 is critical for maintaining global DNA methylation levels across multiple tissues in vivo. A pathogenic Cdca7 missense variant leads to the formation of large, aberrantly hypomethylated domains overlapping with the B genomic compartment but without affecting the deposition of H3K9 trimethylation (H3K9me3). CDCA7-associated aberrant DNA hypomethylation translated to localized, tissue-specific transcriptional dysregulation that affected large gene clusters. In the brain, we identify CDCA7 as a transcriptional repressor and epigenetic regulator of clustered protocadherin isoform choice. Increased protocadherin isoform expression frequency is accompanied by DNA methylation loss, gain of H3K4 trimethylation (H3K4me3), and increased binding of the transcriptional regulator CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF). Overall, our in vivo work identifies a key role for CDCA7 in safeguarding tissue-specific expression of gene clusters via the DNA methylation pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Vukic
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jihed Chouaref
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Serkan Dogan
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Fallon Ratner
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Trevor A. Epp
- Laboratory of Cell Differentiation, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- CZ-OPENSCREEN, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kallayanee Chawengsaksophak
- Laboratory of Cell Differentiation, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kelly K. D. Vonk
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Cor Breukel
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Yavuz Ariyurek
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Genome Technology Center, Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Susan L. Kloet
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Genome Technology Center, Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Lucia Daxinger
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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4
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Karahan G, Martel J, Rahimi S, Farag M, Matias F, MacFarlane AJ, Chan D, Trasler J. Higher incidence of embryonic defects in mouse offspring conceived with assisted reproduction from fathers with sperm epimutations. Hum Mol Genet 2023; 33:48-63. [PMID: 37740387 PMCID: PMC10729866 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddad160] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) account for 1-6% of births in developed countries. While most children conceived are healthy, increases in birth and genomic imprinting defects have been reported; such abnormal outcomes have been attributed to underlying parental infertility and/or the ART used. Here, we assessed whether paternal genetic and lifestyle factors, that are associated with male infertility and affect the sperm epigenome, can influence ART outcomes. We examined how paternal factors, haploinsufficiency for Dnmt3L, an important co-factor for DNA methylation reactions, and/or diet-induced obesity, in combination with ART (superovulation, in vitro fertilization, embryo culture and embryo transfer), could adversely influence embryo development and DNA methylation patterning in mice. While male mice fed high-fat diets (HFD) gained weight and showed perturbed metabolic health, their sperm DNA methylation was minimally affected by the diet. In contrast, Dnmt3L haploinsufficiency induced a marked loss of DNA methylation in sperm; notably, regions affected were associated with neurodevelopmental pathways and enriched in young retrotransposons, sequences that can have functional consequences in the next generation. Following ART, placental imprinted gene methylation and growth parameters were impacted by one or both paternal factors. For embryos conceived by natural conception, abnormality rates were similar for WT and Dnmt3L+/- fathers. In contrast, paternal Dnmt3L+/- genotype, as compared to WT fathers, resulted in a 3-fold increase in the incidence of morphological abnormalities in embryos generated by ART. Together, the results indicate that embryonic morphological and epigenetic defects associated with ART may be exacerbated in offspring conceived by fathers with sperm epimutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurbet Karahan
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 0C7, Canada
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Josée Martel
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Sophia Rahimi
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Mena Farag
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Fernando Matias
- Nutrition Research Division, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | | | - Donovan Chan
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 0C7, Canada
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
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5
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Sakashita A, Ooga M, Otsuka K, Maezawa S, Takeuchi C, Wakayama S, Wakayama T, Namekawa S. Polycomb protein SCML2 mediates paternal epigenetic inheritance through sperm chromatin. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:6668-6683. [PMID: 37283086 PMCID: PMC10359620 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm chromatin retains small amounts of histones, and chromatin states of sperm mirror gene expression programs of the next generation. However, it remains largely unknown how paternal epigenetic information is transmitted through sperm chromatin. Here, we present a novel mouse model of paternal epigenetic inheritance, in which deposition of Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) mediated-repressive H3K27me3 is attenuated in the paternal germline. By applying modified methods of assisted reproductive technology using testicular sperm, we rescued infertility of mice missing Polycomb protein SCML2, which regulates germline gene expression by establishing H3K27me3 on bivalent promoters with other active marks H3K4me2/3. We profiled epigenomic states (H3K27me3 and H3K4me3) of testicular sperm and epididymal sperm, demonstrating that the epididymal pattern of the sperm epigenome is already established in testicular sperm and that SCML2 is required for this process. In F1 males of X-linked Scml2-knockout mice, which have a wild-type genotype, gene expression is dysregulated in the male germline during spermiogenesis. These dysregulated genes are targets of SCML2-mediated H3K27me3 in F0 sperm. Further, dysregulation of gene expression was observed in the mutant-derived wild-type F1 preimplantation embryos. Together, we present functional evidence that the classic epigenetic regulator Polycomb mediates paternal epigenetic inheritance through sperm chromatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Sakashita
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45229, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo160-8582, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, Davis, CA95616, USA
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa252-5201, Japan
| | - Kai Otsuka
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, Davis, CA95616, USA
| | - So Maezawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45229, USA
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa252-5201, Japan
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba278-8510, Japan
| | - Chikara Takeuchi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo160-8582, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu400-8510, Japan
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH45229, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, Davis, CA95616, USA
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6
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Wilson R, Le Bourgeois M, Perez M, Sarkies P. Fluctuations in chromatin state at regulatory loci occur spontaneously under relaxed selection and are associated with epigenetically inherited variation in C. elegans gene expression. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010647. [PMID: 36862744 PMCID: PMC10013927 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Some epigenetic information can be transmitted between generations without changes in the underlying DNA sequence. Changes in epigenetic regulators, termed epimutations, can occur spontaneously and be propagated in populations in a manner reminiscent of DNA mutations. Small RNA-based epimutations occur in C. elegans and persist for around 3-5 generations on average. Here, we explored whether chromatin states also undergo spontaneous change and whether this could be a potential alternative mechanism for transgenerational inheritance of gene expression changes. We compared the chromatin and gene expression profiles at matched time points from three independent lineages of C. elegans propagated at minimal population size. Spontaneous changes in chromatin occurred in around 1% of regulatory regions each generation. Some were heritable epimutations and were significantly enriched for heritable changes in expression of nearby protein-coding genes. Most chromatin-based epimutations were short-lived but a subset had longer duration. Genes subject to long-lived epimutations were enriched for multiple components of xenobiotic response pathways. This points to a possible role for epimutations in adaptation to environmental stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Wilson
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, United Kingdom.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marcos Perez
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Sarkies
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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7
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Isbel L, Grand RS, Schübeler D. Generating specificity in genome regulation through transcription factor sensitivity to chromatin. Nat Rev Genet 2022; 23:728-740. [PMID: 35831531 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-022-00512-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cell type-specific gene expression relies on transcription factors (TFs) binding DNA sequence motifs embedded in chromatin. Understanding how motifs are accessed in chromatin is crucial to comprehend differential transcriptional responses and the phenotypic impact of sequence variation. Chromatin obstacles to TF binding range from DNA methylation to restriction of DNA access by nucleosomes depending on their position, composition and modification. In vivo and in vitro approaches now enable the study of TF binding in chromatin at unprecedented resolution. Emerging insights suggest that TFs vary in their ability to navigate chromatin states. However, it remains challenging to link binding and transcriptional outcomes to molecular characteristics of TFs or the local chromatin substrate. Here, we discuss our current understanding of how TFs access DNA in chromatin and novel techniques and directions towards a better understanding of this critical step in genome regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Isbel
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland.,School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ralph S Grand
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland.,Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Schübeler
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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8
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BAF complex-mediated chromatin relaxation is required for establishment of X chromosome inactivation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1658. [PMID: 35351876 PMCID: PMC8964718 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29333-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of epigenetic silencing, while fundamentally important, is not yet completely understood. Here we report a replenishable female mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) system, Xmas, that allows rapid assessment of X chromosome inactivation (XCI), the epigenetic silencing mechanism of one of the two X chromosomes that enables dosage compensation in female mammals. Through a targeted genetic screen in differentiating Xmas mESCs, we reveal that the BAF complex is required to create nucleosome-depleted regions at promoters on the inactive X chromosome during the earliest stages of establishment of XCI. Without this action gene silencing fails. Xmas mESCs provide a tractable model for screen-based approaches that enable the discovery of unknown facets of the female-specific process of XCI and epigenetic silencing more broadly. Female embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are the ideal model to study X chromosome inactivation (XCI) establishment; however, these cells are challenging to keep in culture. Here the authors create fluorescent ‘Xmas’ reporter mice as a renewable source of ESCs and show nucleosome remodelers Smarcc1 and Smarca4 create a nucleosome-free promoter region prior to the establishment of silencing.
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9
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An N-ethyl-N-Nitrosourea Mutagenesis Screen in Mice Reveals a Mutation in Nuclear Respiratory Factor 1 ( Nrf1) Altering the DNA Methylation State and Correct Embryonic Development. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11072103. [PMID: 34359231 PMCID: PMC8300126 DOI: 10.3390/ani11072103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this work, we aimed to discover unknown genes that are important in the regulation of other genes. These genes often play an important role during the development of the embryo. By screening thousands of mice, we found a gene, namely, Nuclear Respiratory Factor 1 (Nrf1), that controls the switching on and off of other genes. Mice with a defective Nrf1 present lesser levels of the gene and embryonic delay. When the mutation is in both chains of the DNA, mice are not born and die in the uterus. Our work unveils a novel, previously unknown functionality of Nrf1 and provides a new mice model for the study of diseases caused by a defective Nrf1. Abstract We have established a genome-wide N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis screen to identify novel genes playing a role in epigenetic regulation in mammals. We hypothesize that the ENU mutagenesis screen will lead to the discovery of unknown genes responsible of the maintenance of the epigenetic state as the genes found are modifiers of variegation of the transgene green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression in erythrocytes, which are named MommeD. Here we report the generation of a novel mutant mouse line, MommeD46, that carries a new missense mutation producing an amino acid transversion (L71P) in the dimerization domain of Nuclear Respiratory Factor 1 (Nrf1). The molecular characterization of the mutation reveals a decrease in the Nrf1 mRNA levels and a novel role of Nrf1 in the maintenance of the DNA hypomethylation in vivo. The heritability of the mutation is consistent with paternal imprinting and haploinsufficiency. Homozygous mutants display embryonic lethality at 14.5 days post-coitum and developmental delay. This work adds a new epi-regulatory role to Nrf1 and uncovers unknown phenotypical defects of the Nrf1 hypomorph. The generated mouse line represents a valuable resource for studying NRF1-related diseases.
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10
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Borba LA, Broseghini LDR, Manosso LM, de Moura AB, Botelho MEM, Arent CO, Behenck JP, Hilsendeger A, Kammer LH, Valvassori SS, Quevedo J, Réus GZ. Environmental enrichment improves lifelong persistent behavioral and epigenetic changes induced by early-life stress. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 138:107-116. [PMID: 33848966 PMCID: PMC10494235 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of environmental enrichment (EE) in Wistar rats subjected to maternal deprivation (MD). MD was performed in the first post-natal days (PND) ten for 3 h/day. The groups were: control; deprived without EE; and deprived with EE. The EE was applied for 3 h/day. Forced swimming test (FST) and open field test were performed, and histone deacetylase (HDAC) and DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activities in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus were evaluated on 31, 41, and 61 PND. MD altered spontaneous locomotor activity and immobility time in FST, but the effects were sex- and developmental period dependent. In deprived females at PND 31, 41, and 61, HDAC and DNMT increased in the PFC and hippocampus. In females exposed to EE for 20 days, there was a decrease of HDAC in the hippocampus and DNMT in the PFC and hippocampus. Exposure of females to EE for 40 days can reverse HDAC and DNMT increase in all brain areas. In deprived males at PND 31, 41, and 61, HDAC and DNMT increased in the hippocampus, and in the group exposed to EE for 40 days, there was a decrease in hippocampal activity. In PFC of male deprived rats at PND 61 and EE for 40 days, there was a reduction of HDAC and DNMT. MD induced lifelong persistent behavioral and epigenetic changes, and such effects were more evident in female than male rats. EE can be considered an essential non-pharmacological strategy to treat long-term trauma-induced early life changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Borba
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Lia D R Broseghini
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Luana M Manosso
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Airam B de Moura
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Maria Eduarda M Botelho
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Camila O Arent
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - João Paulo Behenck
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Amanda Hilsendeger
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Letícia H Kammer
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Samira S Valvassori
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - João Quevedo
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil; Translational Psychiatry Program, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA; Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gislaine Z Réus
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciuma, SC, Brazil.
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Sanusi KO, Ibrahim KG, Abubakar B, Malami I, Bello MB, Imam MU, Abubakar MB. Effect of maternal zinc deficiency on offspring health: The epigenetic impact. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021; 65:126731. [PMID: 33610057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zinc deficiency is associated with adverse effects on maternal health and pregnancy outcomes. These consequences have been reported over the years from zinc supplementation trials and observational studies whereby outcomes of maternal, foetal and infant health were measured. Owing to the importance of zinc in the functions of epigenetic enzymes, pre-clinical studies have shown that its deficiency could disrupt biological activities that involve epigenetic mechanisms in offspring. Thus, this review assessed the link between epigenetics and the effects of maternal zinc deficiency on the offspring's health in animal studies. METHODS Research articles were retrieved without date restriction from PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases, as well as reference lists of relevant articles. The search terms used were "zinc deficiency", "maternal zinc deficiency", "epigenetics", and "offspring." Six studies met the eligibility criteria and were reviewed. RESULTS All the eligible studies reported maternal zinc deficiency and observed changes in epigenetic markers on the progeny during prenatal and postnatal stages of development. The main epigenetic markers reported were global and gene specific methylation and/ or acetylation. The epigenetic changes led to mortality, disruption in development, and risk of later life diseases. CONCLUSION Maternal zinc deficiency is associated with epigenetic modifications in offspring, which induce pathologies and increase the risk of later life diseases. More research and insight into the epigenetic mechanisms could spring up new approaches to combat the associated disease conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamaldeen Olalekan Sanusi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria; Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
| | - Kasimu Ghandi Ibrahim
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria; Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
| | - Bilyaminu Abubakar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria; Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
| | - Ibrahim Malami
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Ethnopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria; Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
| | - Muhammad Bashir Bello
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria; Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
| | - Mustapha Umar Imam
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria; Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
| | - Murtala Bello Abubakar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria; Centre for Advanced Medical Research and Training, Usmanu Danfodiyo University PMB, 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
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12
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Strain-Specific Epigenetic Regulation of Endogenous Retroviruses: The Role of Trans-Acting Modifiers. Viruses 2020; 12:v12080810. [PMID: 32727076 PMCID: PMC7472028 DOI: 10.3390/v12080810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10 percent of the mouse genome consists of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), relics of ancient retroviral infections that are classified based on their relatedness to exogenous retroviral genera. Because of the ability of ERVs to retrotranspose, as well as their cis-acting regulatory potential due to functional elements located within the elements, mammalian ERVs are generally subject to epigenetic silencing by DNA methylation and repressive histone modifications. The mobilisation and expansion of ERV elements is strain-specific, leading to ERVs being highly polymorphic between inbred mouse strains, hinting at the possibility of the strain-specific regulation of ERVs. In this review, we describe the existing evidence of mouse strain-specific epigenetic control of ERVs and discuss the implications of differential ERV regulation on epigenetic inheritance models. We consider Krüppel-associated box domain (KRAB) zinc finger proteins as likely candidates for strain-specific ERV modifiers, drawing on insights gained from the study of the strain-specific behaviour of transgenes. We conclude by considering the coevolution of KRAB zinc finger proteins and actively transposing ERV elements, and highlight the importance of cross-strain studies in elucidating the mechanisms and consequences of strain-specific ERV regulation.
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13
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Genetic control of non-genetic inheritance in mammals: state-of-the-art and perspectives. Mamm Genome 2020; 31:146-156. [PMID: 32529318 PMCID: PMC7369129 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-020-09841-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Thought to be directly and uniquely dependent from genotypes, the ontogeny of individual phenotypes is much more complicated. Individual genetics, environmental exposures, and their interaction are the three main determinants of individual's phenotype. This picture has been further complicated a decade ago when the Lamarckian theory of acquired inheritance has been rekindled with the discovery of epigenetic inheritance, according to which acquired phenotypes can be transmitted through fertilization and affect phenotypes across generations. The results of Genome-Wide Association Studies have also highlighted a big degree of missing heritability in genetics and have provided hints that not only acquired phenotypes, but also individual's genotypes affect phenotypes intergenerationally through indirect genetic effects. Here, we review available examples of indirect genetic effects in mammals, what is known of the underlying molecular mechanisms and their potential impact for our understanding of missing heritability, phenotypic variation. and individual disease risk.
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14
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Bertozzi TM, Ferguson-Smith AC. Metastable epialleles and their contribution to epigenetic inheritance in mammals. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 97:93-105. [PMID: 31551132 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Many epigenetic differences between individuals are driven by genetic variation. Mammalian metastable epialleles are unusual in that they show variable DNA methylation states between genetically identical individuals. The occurrence of such states across generations has resulted in their consideration by many as strong evidence for epigenetic inheritance in mammals, with the classic Avy and AxinFu mouse models - each products of repeat element insertions - being the most widely accepted examples. Equally, there has been interest in exploring their use as epigenetic biosensors given their susceptibility to environmental compromise. Here we review the classic murine metastable epialleles as well as more recently identified candidates, with the aim of providing a more holistic understanding of their biology. We consider the extent to which epigenetic inheritance occurs at metastable epialleles and explore the limited mechanistic insights into the establishment of their variable epigenetic states. We discuss their environmental modulation and their potential relevance in genome regulation. In light of recent whole-genome screens for novel metastable epialleles, we point out the need to reassess their biological relevance in multi-generational studies and we highlight their value as a model to study repeat element silencing as well as the mechanisms and consequences of mammalian epigenetic stochasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa M Bertozzi
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
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15
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Han F, Jiang X, Li ZM, Zhuang X, Zhang X, Ouyang WM, Liu WB, Mao CY, Chen Q, Huang CS, Gao F, Cui ZH, Ao L, Li YF, Cao J, Liu JY. Epigenetic Inactivation of SOX30 Is Associated with Male Infertility and Offers a Therapy Target for Non-obstructive Azoospermia. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 19:72-83. [PMID: 31835093 PMCID: PMC6926170 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.10.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most severe form of male infertility. However, the etiology of NOA is largely unknown, resulting in a lack of clinical treatments. Here, we performed a comparative genome-wide profiling of DNA methylation and identified SOX30 as the most notably hyper-methylated gene at promoter in testicular tissues from NOA patients. This hyper-methylation at promoter of SOX30 directly causes its silencing of expression in NOA. The reduced levels of SOX30 expression are correlated with severity of NOA disease. Deletion of Sox30 in mice uniquely impairs testis development and spermatogenesis with complete absence of spermatozoa in testes leading to male infertility, but does not influence ovary development and female fertility. The pathology and testicular size of Sox30 null mice highly simulate those of NOA patients. Re-expression of Sox30 in Sox30 null mice at adult age reverses the pathological damage of testis and restores the spermatogenesis. The re-presented spermatozoa after re-expression of Sox30 in Sox30 null mice have the ability to start a pregnancy. Moreover, the male offspring of Sox30 re-expression Sox30 null mice still can father children, and these male offspring and their children can live normally more than 1 year without significant difference of physical appearance compared with wild-type mice. In summary, methylated inactivation of SOX30 uniquely impairs spermatogenesis, probably causing NOA disease, and re-expression of SOX30 can successfully restore the spermatogenesis and actual fertility. This study advances our understanding of the pathogenesis of NOA, offering a promising therapy target for NOA disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Han
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Jiang
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi-ming Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xuan Zhuang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei-ming Ouyang
- Office of Biotechnology Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Wen-bin Liu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng-yi Mao
- Department of Pathology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Chen
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan-shu Huang
- Nelson Institute of Environmental Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fei Gao
- Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Zhi-hong Cui
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Ao
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan-feng Li
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jia Cao
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Corresponding author: Jia Cao, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jin-yi Liu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Corresponding author: Jin-yi Liu, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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16
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Sharma U. Paternal Contributions to Offspring Health: Role of Sperm Small RNAs in Intergenerational Transmission of Epigenetic Information. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:215. [PMID: 31681757 PMCID: PMC6803970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The most fundamental process for the perpetuation of a species is the transfer of information from parent to offspring. Although genomic DNA contributes to the majority of the inheritance, it is now clear that epigenetic information −information beyond the underlying DNA sequence − is also passed on to future generations. However, the mechanism and extent of such inheritance are not well-understood. Here, I review some of the concepts, evidence, and mechanisms of intergenerational epigenetic inheritance via sperm small RNAs. Recent studies provide evidence that mature sperm are highly abundant in small non-coding RNAs. These RNAs are modulated by paternal environmental conditions and potentially delivered to the zygote at fertilization, where they can regulate early embryonic development. Intriguingly, sperm small RNA payload undergoes dramatic changes during testicular and post-testicular maturation, making the mature sperm epigenome highly unique and distinct from testicular germ cells. I explore the mechanism of sperm small RNA remodeling during post-testicular maturation in the epididymis, and the potential role of this reprograming in intergenerational epigenetic inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upasna Sharma
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
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17
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Xavier MJ, Roman SD, Aitken RJ, Nixon B. Transgenerational inheritance: how impacts to the epigenetic and genetic information of parents affect offspring health. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 25:518-540. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND
A defining feature of sexual reproduction is the transmission of genomic information from both parents to the offspring. There is now compelling evidence that the inheritance of such genetic information is accompanied by additional epigenetic marks, or stable heritable information that is not accounted for by variations in DNA sequence. The reversible nature of epigenetic marks coupled with multiple rounds of epigenetic reprogramming that erase the majority of existing patterns have made the investigation of this phenomenon challenging. However, continual advances in molecular methods are allowing closer examination of the dynamic alterations to histone composition and DNA methylation patterns that accompany development and, in particular, how these modifications can occur in an individual’s germline and be transmitted to the following generation. While the underlying mechanisms that permit this form of transgenerational inheritance remain unclear, it is increasingly apparent that a combination of genetic and epigenetic modifications plays major roles in determining the phenotypes of individuals and their offspring.
OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE
Information pertaining to transgenerational inheritance was systematically reviewed focusing primarily on mammalian cells to the exclusion of inheritance in plants, due to inherent differences in the means by which information is transmitted between generations. The effects of environmental factors and biological processes on both epigenetic and genetic information were reviewed to determine their contribution to modulating inheritable phenotypes.
SEARCH METHODS
Articles indexed in PubMed were searched using keywords related to transgenerational inheritance, epigenetic modifications, paternal and maternal inheritable traits and environmental and biological factors influencing transgenerational modifications. We sought to clarify the role of epigenetic reprogramming events during the life cycle of mammals and provide a comprehensive review of how the genomic and epigenomic make-up of progenitors may determine the phenotype of its descendants.
OUTCOMES
We found strong evidence supporting the role of DNA methylation patterns, histone modifications and even non-protein-coding RNA in altering the epigenetic composition of individuals and producing stable epigenetic effects that were transmitted from parents to offspring, in both humans and rodent species. Multiple genomic domains and several histone modification sites were found to resist demethylation and endure genome-wide reprogramming events. Epigenetic modifications integrated into the genome of individuals were shown to modulate gene expression and activity at enhancer and promoter domains, while genetic mutations were shown to alter sequence availability for methylation and histone binding. Fundamentally, alterations to the nuclear composition of the germline in response to environmental factors, ageing, diet and toxicant exposure have the potential to become hereditably transmitted.
WIDER IMPLICATIONS
The environment influences the health and well-being of progeny by working through the germline to introduce spontaneous genetic mutations as well as a variety of epigenetic changes, including alterations in DNA methylation status and the post-translational modification of histones. In evolutionary terms, these changes create the phenotypic diversity that fuels the fires of natural selection. However, rather than being adaptive, such variation may also generate a plethora of pathological disease states ranging from dominant genetic disorders to neurological conditions, including spontaneous schizophrenia and autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel João Xavier
- Reproductive Science Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Shaun D Roman
- Reproductive Science Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Chemical Biology and Clinical Pharmacology, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Reproductive Science Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Reproductive Science Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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18
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Lesch BJ, Tothova Z, Morgan EA, Liao Z, Bronson RT, Ebert BL, Page DC. Intergenerational epigenetic inheritance of cancer susceptibility in mammals. eLife 2019; 8:e39380. [PMID: 30963999 PMCID: PMC6456297 DOI: 10.7554/elife.39380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Susceptibility to cancer is heritable, but much of this heritability remains unexplained. Some 'missing' heritability may be mediated by epigenetic changes in the parental germ line that do not involve transmission of genetic variants from parent to offspring. We report that deletion of the chromatin regulator Kdm6a (Utx) in the paternal germ line results in elevated tumor incidence in genetically wild type mice. This effect increases following passage through two successive generations of Kdm6a male germline deletion, but is lost following passage through a wild type germ line. The H3K27me3 mark is redistributed in sperm of Kdm6a mutants, and we define approximately 200 H3K27me3-marked regions that exhibit increased DNA methylation, both in sperm of Kdm6a mutants and in somatic tissue of progeny. Hypermethylated regions in enhancers may alter regulation of genes involved in cancer initiation or progression. Epigenetic changes in male gametes may therefore impact cancer susceptibility in adult offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zuzana Tothova
- Department of Medicine, Division of HematologyBrigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Broad Institute of MIT and HarvardCambridgeUnited States
| | - Elizabeth A Morgan
- Department of PathologyBrigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Zhicong Liao
- Department of GeneticsYale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Yale Cancer CenterYale School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Roderick T Bronson
- Department of PathologyTufts University School of Medicine and Veterinary MedicineNorth GraftonUnited States
| | - Benjamin L Ebert
- Department of Medicine, Division of HematologyBrigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Broad Institute of MIT and HarvardCambridgeUnited States
| | - David C Page
- Whitehead InstituteCambridgeUnited States
- Department of BiologyMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead InstituteCambridgeUnited States
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19
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Research update and opportunity of non-hormonal male contraception: Histone demethylase KDM5B-based targeting. Pharmacol Res 2019; 141:1-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Kirsch-Volders M, Pacchierotti F, Parry EM, Russo A, Eichenlaub-Ritter U, Adler ID. Risks of aneuploidy induction from chemical exposure: Twenty years of collaborative research in Europe from basic science to regulatory implications. MUTATION RESEARCH-REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2018; 779:126-147. [PMID: 31097149 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although Theodor Boveri linked abnormal chromosome numbers and disease more than a century ago, an in-depth understanding of the impact of mitotic and meiotic chromosome segregation errors on cell proliferation and diseases is still lacking. This review reflects on the efforts and results of a large European research network that, from the 1980's until 2004, focused on protection against aneuploidy-inducing factors and tackled the following problems: 1) the origin and consequences of chromosome imbalance in somatic and germ cells; 2) aneuploidy as a result of environmental factors; 3) dose-effect relationships; 4) the need for validated assays to identify aneugenic factors and classify them according to their modes of action; 5) the need for reliable, quantitative data suitable for regulating exposure and preventing aneuploidy induction; 6) the need for mechanistic insight into the consequences of aneuploidy for human health. This activity brought together a consortium of experts from basic science and applied genetic toxicology to prepare the basis for defining guidelines and to encourage regulatory activities for the prevention of induced aneuploidy. Major strengths of the EU research programmes on aneuploidy were having a valuable scientific approach based on well-selected compounds and accurate methods that allow the determination of precise dose-effect relationships, reproducibility and inter-laboratory comparisons. The work was conducted by experienced scientists stimulated by a fascination with the complex scientific issues surrounding aneuploidy; a key strength was asking the right questions at the right time. The strength of the data permitted evaluation at the regulatory level. Finally, the entire enterprise benefited from a solid partnership under the lead of an inspired and stimulating coordinator. The research programme elucidated the major modes of action of aneugens, developed scientifically sound assays to assess aneugens in different tissues, and achieved the international validation of relevant assays with the goal of protecting human populations from aneugenic chemicals. The role of aneuploidy in tumorigenesis will require additional research, and the study of effects of exposure to multiple agents should become a priority. It is hoped that these reflections will stimulate the implementation of aneuploidy testing in national and OECD guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micheline Kirsch-Volders
- Laboratory for Cell Genetics, Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | | | | | - Antonella Russo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Ursula Eichenlaub-Ritter
- Institute of Gene Technology/Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
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21
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Western PS. Epigenomic drugs and the germline: Collateral damage in the home of heritability? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:121-133. [PMID: 29471014 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The testis and ovary provide specialised environments that nurture germ cells and facilitate their maturation, culminating in the production of mature gametes that can found the following generation. The sperm and egg not only transmit genetic information, but also epigenetic modifications that affect the development and physiology of offspring. Importantly, the epigenetic information contained in mature sperm and oocytes can be influenced by a range of environmental factors, such as diet, chemicals and drugs. An increasing range of studies are revealing how gene-environment interactions are mediated through the germline. Outside the germline, altered epigenetic state is common in a range of diseases, including many cancers. As epigenetic modifications are reversible, pharmaceuticals that directly target epigenetic modifying proteins have been developed and are delivering substantial benefits to patients, particularly in oncology. While providing the most effective patient treatment is clearly the primary concern, some patients will want to conceive children after treatment. However, the impacts of epigenomic drugs on the male and female gametes are poorly understood and whether these drugs will have lasting effects on patients' germline epigenome and subsequent offspring remains largely undetermined. Currently, evidence based clinical guidelines for use of epigenomic drugs in patients of reproductive age are limited in this context. Developing a deeper understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms regulating the germline epigenome and its impact on inherited traits and disease susceptibility is required to determine how specific epigenomic drugs might affect the germline and inheritance. Understanding these potential effects will facilitate the development of informed clinical guidelines appropriate for the use of epigenomic drugs in patients of reproductive age, ultimately improving the safety of these therapies in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S Western
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.
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22
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Abstract
Environmental factors, particularly during early life, are important for the later metabolic health of the individual. In our obesogenic environment, it is of major socio-economic importance to investigate the mechanisms that contribute to the risk of metabolic ill health. Increasing evidence from a variety of model organisms suggests that non-genetically determined phenotypes, including metabolic effects such as glucose intolerance and obesity, can be passed between generations, which encourages us to revisit heredity. Inheritance of altered epigenetic information through the germ line has been proposed as one plausible mechanism. Whether the germline epigenome can be altered by environmental conditions such as diet and the extent to which this occurs in humans are the subject of intense current interest and debate, especially given that extensive germline epigenetic reprogramming is known to occur. As epigenetic mechanisms are often highly conserved between organisms, studying epigenetic inheritance in plants and lower metazoans has the potential to inform our investigation in mammals. This Review explores the extent to which epigenetic inheritance contributes to heredity in these different organisms, whether the environment can affect epigenetic inheritance and whether there is any evidence for the inheritance of acquired phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Radford
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.
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Panzeri I, Pospisilik JA. Epigenetic control of variation and stochasticity in metabolic disease. Mol Metab 2018; 14:26-38. [PMID: 29909200 PMCID: PMC6034039 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2018.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The alarming rise of obesity and its associated comorbidities represents a medical burden and a major global health and economic issue. Understanding etiological mechanisms underpinning susceptibility and therapeutic response is of primary importance. Obesity, diabetes, and metabolic diseases are complex trait disorders with only partial genetic heritability, indicating important roles for environmental programing and epigenetic effects. SCOPE OF THE REVIEW We will highlight some of the reasons for the scarce predictability of metabolic diseases. We will outline how genetic variants generate phenotypic variation in disease susceptibility across populations. We will then focus on recent conclusions about epigenetic mechanisms playing a fundamental role in increasing variability and subsequently disease triggering. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Currently, we are unable to predict or mechanistically define how "missing heritability" drives disease. Unravelling this black box of regulatory processes will allow us to move towards a truly personalized and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Panzeri
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany
| | - John Andrew Pospisilik
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stuebeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany.
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Goodwin LR, Picketts DJ. The role of ISWI chromatin remodeling complexes in brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders. Mol Cell Neurosci 2017; 87:55-64. [PMID: 29249292 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian ISWI (Imitation Switch) genes SMARCA1 and SMARCA5 encode the ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling proteins SNF2L and SNF2H. The ISWI proteins interact with BAZ (bromodomain adjacent to PHD zinc finger) domain containing proteins to generate eight distinct remodeling complexes. ISWI complex-mediated nucleosome positioning within genes and gene regulatory elements is proving important for the transition from a committed progenitor state to a differentiated cell state. Genetic studies have implicated the involvement of many ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling proteins in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including SMARCA1. Here we review the characterization of mice inactivated for ISWI and their interacting proteins, as it pertains to brain development and disease. A better understanding of chromatin dynamics during neural development is a prerequisite to understanding disease pathologies and the development of therapeutics for these complex disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura R Goodwin
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - David J Picketts
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
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25
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Li J, Li H, Makunin I, Thompson BA, Tao K, Young EL, Lopez J, Camp NJ, Tavtigian SV, John EM, Andrulis IL, Khanna KK, Goldgar D, Chenevix-Trench G. Panel sequencing of 264 candidate susceptibility genes and segregation analysis in a cohort of non-BRCA1, non-BRCA2 breast cancer families. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2017; 166:937-949. [PMID: 28840378 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-017-4469-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The main aim of this study was to screen epigenetic modifier genes and known breast cancer driver genes for germline mutations in non-BRCA1/2 (BRCAx) breast cancer families in order to identify novel susceptibility genes of moderate-high penetrance. METHODS We screened 264 candidate susceptibility genes in 656 index cases from non-BRCA1/2 families. Potentially pathogenic candidate mutations were then genotyped in all available family members for the assessment of co-segregation of the variant with disease in the family in order to estimate the breast cancer risks associated with these mutations. For 11 of the candidate susceptibility genes, we screened an additional 800 non-BRCA1/2 breast cancer cases and 787 controls. RESULTS Only two genes, CHD8 and USH2A showed any evidence of an increased risk of breast cancer (RR = 2.40 (95% CI 1.0-7.32) and 2.48 (95% CI 1.11-6.67), respectively). CONCLUSIONS We found no convincing evidence that epigenetic modifier and known breast cancer driver genes carry germline mutations that increase breast cancer risk. USH2A is no longer regarded as a breast cancer driver gene and seems an implausible candidate given its association with Usher syndrome. However, somatic mutations in CHD8 have been recently reported, making it an even more promising candidate, but further analysis of CHD8 in very large cohorts of families or case-control studies would be required to determine if it is a moderate-risk breast cancer susceptibility gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- QIMR Berghofer, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Hongyan Li
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Igor Makunin
- QIMR Berghofer, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia.,Research Computing Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | | | - Bryony A Thompson
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Kayoko Tao
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Erin L Young
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Jacqueline Lopez
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Nicola J Camp
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Sean V Tavtigian
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Esther M John
- Department of Epidemiology, Cancer Prevention Institute of California, Fremont, CA, 94538, USA.,Department of Health Research and Policy (Epidemiology) and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Irene L Andrulis
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X5, Canada
| | | | - David Goldgar
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
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26
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Sharma U, Rando OJ. Metabolic Inputs into the Epigenome. Cell Metab 2017; 25:544-558. [PMID: 28273477 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A number of molecular pathways play key roles in transmitting information in addition to the genomic sequence-epigenetic information-from one generation to the next. However, so-called epigenetic marks also impact an enormous variety of physiological processes, even under circumstances that do not result in heritable consequences. Perhaps inevitably, the epigenetic regulatory machinery is highly responsive to metabolic cues, as, for example, central metabolites are the substrates for the enzymes that catalyze the deposition of covalent modifications on histones, DNA, and RNA. Interestingly, in addition to the effects that metabolites exert over biological regulation in somatic cells, over the past decade multiple studies have shown that ancestral nutrition can alter the metabolic phenotype of offspring, raising the question of how metabolism regulates the epigenome of germ cells. Here, we review the widespread links between metabolism and epigenetic modifications, both in somatic cells and in the germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upasna Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Oliver J Rando
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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27
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Gerlinskaya LA, Maslennikova SO, Anisimova MV, Feofanova NA, Zavjalov EL, Kontsevaya GV, Moshkin YM, Moshkin MP. Modulation of embryonic development due to mating with immunised males. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:565-574. [DOI: 10.1071/rd15173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The modification of pre- and postnatal development conferred by immunogenic stimulation of mothers provides a population-level adaptation mechanism for non-genetic transfer of maternal experiences to progeny. However little is known about the transmission of paternal immune experiences to offspring. Here, we show that immune priming of males 3–9 days before mating affects the growth and humoral environment of developing embryos of outbred (ICR) and inbred (C57BL and BALB/c) mice. Antigenic stimulation of fathers caused a significant increase in embryonic bodyweight as measured on Day 16 of pregnancy and altered other gestation parameters, such as feto–placental ratio. Pregnant females mated with immunised males were also characterised by changes in humoral conditions as shown by measurements of blood and amniotic progesterone, testosterone and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) cytokine concentrations. These results emphasise the role of paternal effects of immune priming on the in utero environment and fetal growth.
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28
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Camprubí C, Salas-Huetos A, Aiese-Cigliano R, Godo A, Pons MC, Castellano G, Grossmann M, Sanseverino W, Martin-Subero JI, Garrido N, Blanco J. Spermatozoa from infertile patients exhibit differences of DNA methylation associated with spermatogenesis-related processes: an array-based analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2016; 33:709-719. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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29
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Benonisdottir S, Oddsson A, Helgason A, Kristjansson RP, Sveinbjornsson G, Oskarsdottir A, Thorleifsson G, Davidsson OB, Arnadottir GA, Sulem G, Jensson BO, Holm H, Alexandersson KF, Tryggvadottir L, Walters GB, Gudjonsson SA, Ward LD, Sigurdsson JK, Iordache PD, Frigge ML, Rafnar T, Kong A, Masson G, Helgason H, Thorsteinsdottir U, Gudbjartsson DF, Sulem P, Stefansson K. Epigenetic and genetic components of height regulation. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13490. [PMID: 27848971 PMCID: PMC5116096 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult height is a highly heritable trait. Here we identified 31.6 million sequence variants by whole-genome sequencing of 8,453 Icelanders and tested them for association with adult height by imputing them into 88,835 Icelanders. Here we discovered 13 novel height associations by testing four different models including parent-of-origin (|β|=0.4-10.6 cm). The minor alleles of three parent-of-origin signals associate with less height only when inherited from the father and are located within imprinted regions (IGF2-H19 and DLK1-MEG3). We also examined the association of these sequence variants in a set of 12,645 Icelanders with birth length measurements. Two of the novel variants, (IGF2-H19 and TET1), show significant association with both adult height and birth length, indicating a role in early growth regulation. Among the parent-of-origin signals, we observed opposing parental effects raising questions about underlying mechanisms. These findings demonstrate that common variations affect human growth by parental imprinting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Agnar Helgason
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,Department of Anthropology, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gerald Sulem
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Hilma Holm
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Laufey Tryggvadottir
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,Icelandic Cancer Registry, 105 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | | | - Lucas D Ward
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Paul D Iordache
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,Reykjavik University, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | | | - Augustine Kong
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Iceland, 107 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Gisli Masson
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Hannes Helgason
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Iceland, 107 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Unnur Thorsteinsdottir
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Daniel F Gudbjartsson
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Iceland, 107 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Kari Stefansson
- deCODE Genetics/Amgen, Inc., 101 Reykjavik, Iceland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
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30
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Chen Q, Yan W, Duan E. Epigenetic inheritance of acquired traits through sperm RNAs and sperm RNA modifications. Nat Rev Genet 2016; 17:733-743. [PMID: 27694809 DOI: 10.1038/nrg.2016.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 303] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Once deemed heretical, emerging evidence now supports the notion that the inheritance of acquired characteristics can occur through ancestral exposures or experiences and that certain paternally acquired traits can be 'memorized' in the sperm as epigenetic information. The search for epigenetic factors in mammalian sperm that transmit acquired phenotypes has recently focused on RNAs and, more recently, RNA modifications. Here, we review insights that have been gained from studying sperm RNAs and RNA modifications, and their roles in influencing offspring phenotypes. We discuss the possible mechanisms by which sperm become acquisitive following environmental-somatic-germline interactions, and how they transmit paternally acquired phenotypes by shaping early embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada 89512, USA
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada 89512, USA
| | - Enkui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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31
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Cui X, Jing X, Wu X, Yan M, Li Q, Shen Y, Wang Z. DNA methylation in spermatogenesis and male infertility. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:1973-1979. [PMID: 27698683 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a significant problem for human reproduction, with males and females equally affected. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying male infertility remain unclear. Spermatogenesis is a highly complex process involving mitotic cell division, meiosis cell division and spermiogenesis; during this period, unique and extensive chromatin and epigenetic modifications occur to bring about specific epigenetic profiles in spermatozoa. It has recently been suggested that the dysregulation of epigenetic modifications, in particular the methylation of sperm genomic DNA, may serve an important role in the development of numerous diseases. The present study is a comprehensive review on the topic of male infertility, aiming to elucidate the association between sperm genomic DNA methylation and poor semen quality in male infertility. In addition, the current status of the genetic and epigenetic determinants of spermatogenesis in humans is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangrong Cui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030000, P.R. China; Division of Clinical Microbiology The Center Hospital of Linfen, Linfen, Shanxi 041000, P.R. China
| | - Xuan Jing
- Clinical Laboratory, Shanxi Province People's Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, P.R. China
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030000, P.R. China
| | - Meiqin Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030000, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030000, P.R. China
| | - Yan Shen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030000, P.R. China
| | - Zhenqiang Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030000, P.R. China
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32
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Unravelling the complex mechanisms of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2016; 33:101-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2016.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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33
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Rando OJ. Intergenerational Transfer of Epigenetic Information in Sperm. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2016; 6:cshperspect.a022988. [PMID: 26801897 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a022988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The inheritance of information beyond DNA sequence, known as epigenetic inheritance, has been implicated in a multitude of biological processes from control of plant flowering time to cancer in humans. In addition to epigenetic inheritance that occurs in dividing cells of a multicellular organism, it is also increasingly clear that at least some epigenetic information is transmitted via the gametes in a multitude of organisms, including mammals. Here, I review the evidence for epigenetic information carriers in mammalian sperm, and explore the emerging field of intergenerational transfer of environmental information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver J Rando
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605
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34
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Hypomethylation of ERVs in the sperm of mice haploinsufficient for the histone methyltransferase Setdb1 correlates with a paternal effect on phenotype. Sci Rep 2016; 6:25004. [PMID: 27112447 PMCID: PMC4845014 DOI: 10.1038/srep25004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of reports of paternal epigenetic influences on the phenotype of offspring in rodents is increasing but the molecular events involved remain unclear. Here, we show that haploinsufficiency for the histone 3 lysine 9 methyltransferase Setdb1 in the sire can influence the coat colour phenotype of wild type offspring. This effect occurs when the allele that directly drives coat colour is inherited from the dam, inferring that the effect involves an “in trans” step. The implication of this finding is that epigenetic state of the sperm can alter the expression of genes inherited on the maternally derived chromosomes. Whole genome bisulphite sequencing revealed that Setdb1 mutant mice show DNA hypomethylation at specific classes of transposable elements in the sperm. Our results identify Setdb1 as a paternal effect gene in the mouse and suggest that epigenetic inheritance may be more likely in individuals with altered levels of epigenetic modifiers.
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35
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Timms RT, Tchasovnikarova IA, Lehner PJ. Position-effect variegation revisited: HUSHing up heterochromatin in human cells. Bioessays 2016; 38:333-43. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201500184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard T. Timms
- Department of Medicine, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research; Addenbrooke's Hospital; Cambridge UK
| | - Iva A. Tchasovnikarova
- Department of Medicine, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research; Addenbrooke's Hospital; Cambridge UK
| | - Paul J. Lehner
- Department of Medicine, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research; Addenbrooke's Hospital; Cambridge UK
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36
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Klosin A, Lehner B. Mechanisms, timescales and principles of trans-generational epigenetic inheritance in animals. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2016; 36:41-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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37
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Sarkar DK. Male germline transmits fetal alcohol epigenetic marks for multiple generations: a review. Addict Biol 2016; 21:23-34. [PMID: 25581210 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol exposure during fetal and early postnatal development can lead to an increased incidence of later life adult-onset diseases. Examples include central nervous system dysfunction, depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, and an inability to deal with stressful situations, increased infection and cancer. Direct effects of alcohol leading to developmental abnormalities often involve epigenetic modifications of genes that regulate cellular functions. Epigenetic marks carried over from the parents are known to undergo molecular programming events that happen early in embryonic development by a wave of DNA demethylation, which leaves the embryo with a fresh genomic composition. The proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) gene controls neuroendocrine-immune functions and is imprinted by fetal alcohol exposure. Recently, this gene has been shown to be hypermethylated through three generations. Additionally, the alcohol epigenetic marks on the Pomc gene are maintained in the male but not in the female germline during this transgenerational transmission. These data suggest that the male-specific chromosome might be involved in transmitting alcohol epigenetic marks through multiple generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak K. Sarkar
- Rutgers Endocrine Program; Department of Animal Sciences; Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey; Piscataway Township NJ USA
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38
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Zhao XC, An P, Wu XY, Zhang LM, Long B, Tian Y, Chi XY, Tong DY. Overexpression of hSNF2H in glioma promotes cell proliferation, invasion, and chemoresistance through its interaction with Rsf-1. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:7203-12. [PMID: 26666816 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-4579-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
hSNF2H partners with Rsf-1 to compose the Rsf complex to regulate gene expression. Recent studies indicated that hSNF2H was overexpressed in several human cancers. However, its expression pattern and biological mechanism in glioma remain unexplored. In this study, we found that hSNF2H was overexpressed in 32 % of glioma specimens. hSNF2H overexpression correlated with advanced tumor grade (p = 0.0338) and Rsf-1 positivity in glioma tissues (p = 0.016). Small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown was performed in A172 and U87 cell lines. MTT, colony formation assay, and cell cycle analysis showed that knockdown of hSNF2H inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation ability, and cell cycle transition. Matrigel invasion assay showed that hSNF2H depletion inhibited invasive ability of glioma cells. In addition, we demonstrated that hSNF2H depletion decreased temozolomide resistance of A172 and U87 cell lines and increased temozolomide induced apoptosis. Furthermore, hSNF2H depletion decreased cyclin D1, cyclin E, p-Rb, MMP2, cIAP1, Bcl-2 expression, and phosphorylation of IκBα and p65, suggesting hSNF2H regulates apoptosis through NF-κB pathway. Immunoprecipitation showed that hSNF2H could interact with Rsf-1 in both cell lines. To validate the involvement of Rsf-1, we checked the change of its downstream targets in Rsf-1 depleted cells. In Rsf-1 depleted cells, changes of cyclin E, Bcl-2, and p-IκBα were not significant using hSNF2H siRNA treatment. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that hSNF2H was overexpressed in human gliomas and contributed to glioma proliferation, invasion, and chemoresistance through regulation of cyclin E and NF-κB pathway, which is dependent on its interaction with Rsf-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Chun Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ping An
- Department of Neurobiology, College of Basic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Xiu-Ying Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Li-Min Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, China
| | - Bo Long
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yue Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiao-Ying Chi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong-Yi Tong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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39
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Oey H, Isbel L, Hickey P, Ebaid B, Whitelaw E. Genetic and epigenetic variation among inbred mouse littermates: identification of inter-individual differentially methylated regions. Epigenetics Chromatin 2015; 8:54. [PMID: 26692901 PMCID: PMC4676890 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-015-0047-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Phenotypic variability among inbred littermates reared in controlled environments remains poorly understood. Metastable epialleles refer to loci that intrinsically behave in this way and a few examples have been described. They display differential methylation in association with differential expression. For example, inbred mice carrying the agouti viable yellow (Avy) allele show a range of coat colours associated with different DNA methylation states at the locus. The availability of next-generation sequencing, in particular whole genome sequencing of bisulphite converted DNA, allows us, for the first time, to search for metastable epialleles at base pair resolution. Results Using whole genome bisulphite sequencing of DNA from the livers of five mice from the Avy colony, we searched for sites at which DNA methylation differed among the mice. A small number of loci, 356, were detected and we call these inter-individual Differentially Methylated Regions, iiDMRs, 55 of which overlap with endogenous retroviral elements (ERVs). Whole genome resequencing of two mice from the colony identified very few differences and these did not occur at or near the iiDMRs. Further work suggested that the majority of ERV iiDMRs are metastable epialleles; the level of methylation was maintained in tissue from other germ layers and the level of mRNA from the neighbouring gene inversely correlated with methylation state. Most iiDMRs that were not overlapping ERV insertions occurred at tissue-specific DMRs and it cannot be ruled out that these are driven by changes in the ratio of cell types in the tissues analysed. Conclusions Using the most thorough genome-wide profiling technologies for differentially methylated regions, we find very few intrinsically epigenetically variable regions that we term iiDMRs. The most robust of these are at retroviral elements and appear to be metastable epialleles. The non-ERV iiDMRs cannot be described as metastable epialleles at this stage but provide a novel class of variably methylated elements for further study. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13072-015-0047-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Oey
- Department of Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC 3086 Australia.,University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4102 Australia
| | - Luke Isbel
- Department of Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC 3086 Australia
| | - Peter Hickey
- Bioinformatics Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
| | - Basant Ebaid
- Department of Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC 3086 Australia
| | - Emma Whitelaw
- Department of Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC 3086 Australia
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Siklenka K, Erkek S, Godmann M, Lambrot R, McGraw S, Lafleur C, Cohen T, Xia J, Suderman M, Hallett M, Trasler J, Peters AHFM, Kimmins S. Disruption of histone methylation in developing sperm impairs offspring health transgenerationally. Science 2015; 350:aab2006. [PMID: 26449473 DOI: 10.1126/science.aab2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 326] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A father's lifetime experiences can be transmitted to his offspring to affect health and development. However, the mechanisms underlying paternal epigenetic transmission are unclear. Unlike in somatic cells, there are few nucleosomes in sperm, and their function in epigenetic inheritance is unknown. We generated transgenic mice in which overexpression of the histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) demethylase KDM1A (also known as LSD1) during spermatogenesis reduced H3K4 dimethylation in sperm. KDM1A overexpression in one generation severely impaired development and survivability of offspring. These defects persisted transgenerationally in the absence of KDM1A germline expression and were associated with altered RNA profiles in sperm and offspring. We show that epigenetic inheritance of aberrant development can be initiated by histone demethylase activity in developing sperm, without changes to DNA methylation at CpG-rich regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Siklenka
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Serap Erkek
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research (FMI), CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland. Faculty of Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maren Godmann
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Romain Lambrot
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Serge McGraw
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christine Lafleur
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tamara Cohen
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jianguo Xia
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Matthew Suderman
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unity, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Michael Hallett
- McGill Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Computer Science, Faculty of Science, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Department of Human Genetics and Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre at the Montreal Children's Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Antoine H F M Peters
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research (FMI), CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland. Faculty of Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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41
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Prokopuk L, Western PS, Stringer JM. Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance: adaptation through the germline epigenome? Epigenomics 2015; 7:829-46. [PMID: 26367077 DOI: 10.2217/epi.15.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications direct the way DNA is packaged into the nucleus, making genes more or less accessible to transcriptional machinery and influencing genomic stability. Environmental factors have the potential to alter the epigenome, allowing genes that are silenced to be activated and vice versa. This ultimately influences disease susceptibility and health in an individual. Furthermore, altered chromatin states can be transmitted to subsequent generations, thus epigenetic modifications may provide evolutionary mechanisms that impact on adaptation to changed environments. However, the mechanisms involved in establishing and maintaining these epigenetic modifications during development remain unclear. This review discusses current evidence for transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, confounding issues associated with its study, and the biological relevance of altered epigenetic states for subsequent generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lexie Prokopuk
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Molecular & Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Patrick S Western
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Molecular & Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jessica M Stringer
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Molecular & Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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42
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Russo A, Pacchierotti F, Cimini D, Ganem NJ, Genescà A, Natarajan AT, Pavanello S, Valle G, Degrassi F. Genomic instability: Crossing pathways at the origin of structural and numerical chromosome changes. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2015; 56:563-580. [PMID: 25784636 DOI: 10.1002/em.21945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Genomic instability leads to a wide spectrum of genetic changes, including single nucleotide mutations, structural chromosome alterations, and numerical chromosome changes. The accepted view on how these events are generated predicts that separate cellular mechanisms and genetic events explain the occurrence of these types of genetic variation. Recently, new findings have shed light on the complexity of the mechanisms leading to structural and numerical chromosome aberrations, their intertwining pathways, and their dynamic evolution, in somatic as well as in germ cells. In this review, we present a critical analysis of these recent discoveries in this area, with the aim to contribute to a deeper knowledge of the molecular networks leading to adverse outcomes in humans following exposure to environmental factors. The review illustrates how several technological advances, including DNA sequencing methods, bioinformatics, and live-cell imaging approaches, have contributed to produce a renewed concept of the mechanisms causing genomic instability. Special attention is also given to the specific pathways causing genomic instability in mammalian germ cells. Remarkably, the same scenario emerged from some pioneering studies published in the 1980s to 1990s, when the evolution of polyploidy, the chromosomal effects of spindle poisons, the fate of micronuclei, were intuitively proposed to share mechanisms and pathways. Thus, an old working hypothesis has eventually found proper validation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Pacchierotti
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Unit of Radiation Biology and Human Health, ENEA CR Casaccia, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Cimini
- Department of Biological Sciences and Virginia Bioinformatics Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Neil J Ganem
- Department of Pharmacology, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anna Genescà
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | | | - Sofia Pavanello
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Unit of Occupational Medicine, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgio Valle
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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43
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Developmental windows of susceptibility for epigenetic inheritance through the male germline. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 43:96-105. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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44
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Warzak DA, Johnson SA, Ellersieck MR, Roberts RM, Zhang X, Ho SM, Rosenfeld CS. Effects of post-weaning diet on metabolic parameters and DNA methylation status of the cryptic promoter in the A(vy) allele of viable yellow mice. J Nutr Biochem 2015; 26:667-74. [PMID: 25818200 PMCID: PMC4431896 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2015.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Revised: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Mice carrying the A(vy) allele are epigenetic mosaics. If the majority of cells have an active (demethylated) intracisternal A particle (IAP), mice have a yellow coat color and develop adult-onset obesity and diabetes, while mice whose mosaicism predominantly reflects an inactive (methylated) IAP are pseudoagouti (brown) and less prone to metabolic disease. Brown and yellow coat color A(vy)/a post-weaning mice were placed on one of three diets [AIN, and two lower-calorie diets National Institutes of Health (NIH) and methyl-supplemented, NIHMe] to determine whether coat color, weight gain, blood glucose and methylation of hepatic IAP became altered. None of the diets altered A(vy)/a mice coat color. NIHMe did not protect against increasing obesity or the usual onset of hyperglycemia in males. Nor did it promote increased methylation of A(vy) IAP in liver tissue. By contrast, AIN, despite its higher content of fat and carbohydrate and ability to promote greater weight gains than the NIH and NIHMe diets, protected males better against hyperglycemia than either the NIH or NIHMe diets. This diet led to a significantly reduced (~50%; P = .003) average methylation state of all CpG sites within the hepatic IAP for the pseudoagouti mice. On AIN, but not on the other diets, extent of hepatic IAP methylation was negatively correlated (R = 0.97, P ≤ .001) with body weight of pseudoagouti mice. The findings indicate that post-weaning diet might influence interpretation of studies with A(vy)/a mice because IAP methylation patterns may be malleable in certain organs and influenced by post-weaning diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise A Warzak
- Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Sarah A Johnson
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Mark R Ellersieck
- Agriculture Experimental Station-Statistics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - R Michael Roberts
- Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Genetics Area Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Cheryl S Rosenfeld
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Genetics Area Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
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Broering TJ, Wang YL, Pandey RN, Hegde RS, Wang SC, Namekawa SH. BAZ1B is dispensable for H2AX phosphorylation on Tyrosine 142 during spermatogenesis. Biol Open 2015; 4:873-84. [PMID: 25979708 PMCID: PMC4571090 DOI: 10.1242/bio.011734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is precisely regulated by the factors involved in DNA damage response in somatic cells. Among them, phosphorylation of H2AX on Serine 139 (γH2AX) is an essential signal for the silencing of unsynapsed sex chromosomes during male meiosis. However, it remains unknown how adjacent H2AX phosphorylation on Tyrosine 142 (pTyr142) is regulated in meiosis. Here we investigate the meiotic functions of BAZ1B (WSTF), the only known Tyr142 kinase in somatic cells, using mice possessing a conditional deletion of BAZ1B. Although BAZ1B deletion causes ectopic γH2AX signals on synapsed autosomes during the early pachytene stage, BAZ1B is dispensable for fertility and critical events during spermatogenesis. BAZ1B deletion does not alter events on unsynapsed axes and pericentric heterochromatin formation. Furthermore, BAZ1B is dispensable for localization of the ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling protein SMARCA5 (SNF2h) during spermatogenesis despite the complex formation between BAZ1B and SMARCA5, known as the WICH complex, in somatic cells. Notably, pTyr142 is regulated independently of BAZ1B and is dephosphorylated on the sex chromosomes during meiosis in contrast with the presence of adjacent γH2AX. Dephosphorylation of pTyr142 is regulated by MDC1, a binding partner of γH2AX. These results reveal the distinct regulation of two adjacent phosphorylation sites of H2AX during meiosis, and suggest that another kinase mediates Tyr142 phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler J Broering
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Yuan-Liang Wang
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Ram Naresh Pandey
- Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Rashmi S Hegde
- Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Shao-Chun Wang
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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Daxinger L, Harten SK, Oey H, Epp T, Isbel L, Huang E, Whitelaw N, Apedaile A, Sorolla A, Yong J, Bharti V, Sutton J, Ashe A, Pang Z, Wallace N, Gerhardt DJ, Blewitt ME, Jeddeloh JA, Whitelaw E. An ENU mutagenesis screen identifies novel and known genes involved in epigenetic processes in the mouse. Genome Biol 2015; 14:R96. [PMID: 24025402 PMCID: PMC4053835 DOI: 10.1186/gb-2013-14-9-r96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We have used a sensitized ENU mutagenesis screen to produce mouse lines that carry mutations in genes required for epigenetic regulation. We call these lines Modifiers of murine metastable epialleles (Mommes). Results We report a basic molecular and phenotypic characterization for twenty of the Momme mouse lines, and in each case we also identify the causative mutation. Three of the lines carry a mutation in a novel epigenetic modifier, Rearranged L-myc fusion (Rlf), and one gene, Rap-interacting factor 1 (Rif1), has not previously been reported to be involved in transcriptional regulation in mammals. Many of the other lines are novel alleles of known epigenetic regulators. For two genes, Rlf and Widely-interspaced zinc finger (Wiz), we describe the first mouse mutants. All of the Momme mutants show some degree of homozygous embryonic lethality, emphasizing the importance of epigenetic processes. The penetrance of lethality is incomplete in a number of cases. Similarly, abnormalities in phenotype seen in the heterozygous individuals of some lines occur with incomplete penetrance. Conclusions Recent advances in sequencing enhance the power of sensitized mutagenesis screens to identify the function of previously uncharacterized factors and to discover additional functions for previously characterized proteins. The observation of incomplete penetrance of phenotypes in these inbred mutant mice, at various stages of development, is of interest. Overall, the Momme collection of mouse mutants provides a valuable resource for researchers across many disciplines.
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Toth M. Mechanisms of non-genetic inheritance and psychiatric disorders. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:129-40. [PMID: 24889369 PMCID: PMC4262890 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Revised: 05/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Inheritance is typically associated with the Mendelian transmission of information from parents to offspring by alleles (DNA sequence). However, empirical data clearly suggest that traits can be acquired from ancestors by mechanisms that do not involve genetic alleles, referred to as non-genetic inheritance. Information that is non-genetically transmitted across generations includes parental experience and exposure to certain environments, but also parental mutations and polymorphisms, because they can change the parental 'intrinsic' environment. Non-genetic inheritance is not limited to the first generation of the progeny, but can involve the grandchildren and even further generations. Non-genetic inheritance has been observed for multiple traits including overall development, cardiovascular risk and metabolic symptoms, but this review will focus on the inheritance of behavioral abnormalities pertinent to psychiatric disorders. Multigenerational non-genetic inheritance is often interpreted as the transmission of epigenetic marks, such as DNA methylation and chromatin modifications, via the gametes (transgenerational epigenetic inheritance). However, information can be carried across generations by a large number of bioactive substances, including hormones, cytokines, and even microorganisms, without the involvement of the gametes. We reason that this broader definition of non-genetic inheritance is more appropriate, especially in the context of psychiatric disorders, because of the well-recognized role of parental and early life environmental factors in later life psychopathology. Here we discuss the various forms of non-genetic inheritance in humans and animals, as well as rodent models of psychiatric conditions to illustrate possible mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miklos Toth
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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48
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McCarrey JR. Distinctions between transgenerational and non-transgenerational epimutations. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 398:13-23. [PMID: 25079508 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have described numerous environmentally-induced disruptions of the epigenome (epimutations) in mammals. While some of these appear to be corrected by normal germline-specific epigenetic reprogramming and are therefore not transmitted transgenerationally, others are not corrected and are transmitted over multiple subsequent generations. The mechanism(s) that distinguish transgenerational and non-transgenerational epimutations have not been delineated. This review examines several potential molecular and developmental distinctions between transgenerational and non-transgenerational epimutations in the context of the likelihood that any of these may or may not contribute to transgenerational inheritance of epimutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R McCarrey
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, USA.
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49
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Wei Y, Schatten H, Sun QY. Environmental epigenetic inheritance through gametes and implications for human reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 21:194-208. [PMID: 25416302 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional studies focused on DNA as the heritable information carrier that passes the phenotype from parents to offspring. However, increasing evidence suggests that information, that is independent of the DNA sequence, termed epigenetic information, can be inherited between generations. Recently, in our lab, we found that prediabetes in fathers increases the susceptibility to diabetes in offspring through gametic cytosine methylation changes. Paternal prediabetes changed overall methylation patterns in sperm, and a large portion of differentially methylated loci can be transmitted to pancreatic islets of offspring up to the second generation. In this review, we survey the extensive examples of environmentally induced epigenetic inheritance in various species, ranging from Caenorhabditis elegans to humans. We focus mainly on elucidating the molecular basis of environmental epigenetic inheritance through gametes, which is an emerging theme and has important implications for explaining the prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes and other chronic non-genetic diseases, which is also important for understanding the influence of environmental exposures on reproductive and overall health in offspring. METHODS For this review, we included relevant data and information obtained through a PubMed database search for all English language articles published up to August 2014 which included the term 'environmental epigenetic inheritance' and 'transgenerational epigenetic inheritance'. We focused on research papers using animal models including Drosophila, C. elegans, mouse and rat. Human data were also included. RESULTS Evidence from animal models suggests that environmental epigenetic inheritance through gametes exists in various species. Extensive molecular evidence suggests that epigenetic information carriers including DNA methylation, non-coding RNAs and chromatin proteins in gametes play important roles in the transmission of phenotypes from parents to offspring. CONCLUSIONS Given the large number of experimental evidence from various organisms, it is clear that parental environmental alterations can affect the phenotypes of offspring through gametic epigenetic alterations. This more recent thinking based on new data may have implications in explaining the prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes and other chronic non-genetic diseases. This also implies that, in the near future, epigenetic factors which are heritable should be regarded important in determining the risk of certain diseases. Moreover, identification of epigenetic markers in gametes (polar body or sperm) may hold great promise for predicting susceptibility to and preventing certain non-genetic diseases in offspring, as well as providing indications on parental environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanchang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Heide Schatten
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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Overexpression of SMARCA5 correlates with cell proliferation and migration in breast cancer. Tumour Biol 2014; 36:1895-902. [PMID: 25377162 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-014-2791-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
SMARCA5 partners with RSF-1 to compose the RSF complex, which belongs to the ISWI family of chromatin remodelers. Recent studies referred that SMARCA5 was overexpressed in some malignant tumors. However, expression pattern and biological roles of SMARCA5 in breast cancer have not been examined. In the present study, we found that SMARCA5 was overexpressed in breast cancer specimens by immunohistochemistry. Significant association was observed between SMARCA5 overexpression and TNM stage (p = 0.0199), tumor size (p = 0.0066), high proliferation index (p = 0.0366), and poor overall survival (p = 0.0141). SMARCA5 overexpression also correlated with Rsf-1 expression levels (p = 0.0120). Furthermore, colony formation assay and Matrigel invasion assay showed that knockdown of SMARCA5 expression in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-435s cell lines with high endogenous expression decreased cell proliferation and cell invasion. Flow cytometry showed knockdown of SMARCA5-arrested cell cycle. Further analysis of cell cycle and invasion-related molecules showed that SMARCA5 downregulated cyclin A, MMP2 expression and upregulated p21 expression. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that SMARCA5 was overexpressed in human breast cancers and correlated with poor prognosis. SMARCA5 contributes to breast cancer cell proliferation and invasion.
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