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Tang Y, Xu G, Hu B, Zhu Y. HIVEP3 as a potential prognostic factor promotes the development of acute myeloid leukemia. Growth Factors 2023; 41:43-56. [PMID: 36571205 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2022.2158329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common malignancy worldwide. Human immune deficiency virus type 1 enhancer-binding protein 3 (HIVEP3) was verified to play a vital role in types of cancers. However, the functional role of HIVEP3 in AML was rarely reported. In this study, CCK-8, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and Trans-well chamber experiments were applied for detecting cell proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion in AML cells. The expression of proteins related to TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway was determined by western blot. Our data showed that the expression level of HIVEP3 was closely related to the risk classification and prognosis of AML patients. Moreover, HIVEP3 was highly expressed in AML patients and cells. Knockdown of HIVEP3 significantly repressed cell proliferation invasion, and enhanced cell apoptosis in HL-60 and THP-1 cells. In addition, HIVEP3 donwreglation could inhibit the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. TGF-β overexpression could reverse the inhibition effects of HIVEP3 knockdown on AML development and the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. These findings indicated that HIVEP3 contributed to the progression of AML via regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and had a prognostic value for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Tang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, PR China
| | - Guangtao Xu
- Department of Pathology, Forensci and Pathology Laboratory, Jiaxing University Medical College, Jiaxing, PR China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Pathology and Municipal Key-Innovative Discipline of Molecular Diagnostics, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, PR China
| | - Yuzhang Zhu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, PR China
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2
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Quental R, Borges JP, Santos H, Leão M. Expanding the Phenotypic Spectrum of HIVEP2-Related Intellectual Disability: Description of Two Portuguese Patients and Review of the Literature. Mol Syndromol 2022; 13:397-401. [PMID: 36588750 PMCID: PMC9801332 DOI: 10.1159/000521692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pathogenic variants in HIVEP2 have been associated with a neurodevelopmental disorder mainly characterized by intellectual disability, severe language impairment, and motor developmental delay. Since its first description in 2016, only 15 patients have been described in the literature. Methods Here, we report 2 additional unrelated Portuguese children presenting intellectual disability and motor delay in whom de novo nonsense pathogenic variants in HIVEP2 have been identified by next-generation sequencing analysis. Results In patient 1, the variant c.2827C>T, p.(Arg943*) was detected, whereas patient 2 carried the variant c.6667C>T, p.(Arg2223*). Interestingly, patient 1 presented with a rapid growth of the occipitofrontal diameter in the first months of life due to external hydrocephalus, a feature that, as far as we know, has never been reported in patients with HIVEP2 pathogenic variants. Conclusion This report expands the phenotypic spectrum of this rare syndrome and provides deeper insights by comparing the clinical features of our patients with previously reported affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Quental
- Department of Medical Genetics, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal,*Rita Quental,
| | - Joana Pires Borges
- Paediatrics Department, Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Helena Santos
- Infancy and Adolescent Neurosciences Unit, Paediatrics Department, Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Miguel Leão
- Department of Medical Genetics, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
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Cunha C, Koike T, Seki Y, Yamamoto M, Iwashima M. Schnurri 3 promotes Th2 cytokine production during the late phase of T-cell antigen stimulation. Eur J Immunol 2022; 52:1077-1094. [PMID: 35490426 PMCID: PMC9276650 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Th1 and Th2 polarization is determined by the coordination of numerous factors including the affinity and strength of the antigen-receptor interaction, predominant cytokine environment, and costimulatory molecules present. Here, we show that Schnurri (SHN) proteins have distinct roles in Th1 and Th2 polarization. SHN2 was previously found to block the induction of GATA3 and Th2 differentiation. We found that, in contrast to SHN2, SHN3 is critical for IL-4 production and Th2 polarization. Strength of stimulation controls SHN2 and SHN3 expression patterns, where higher doses of antigen receptor stimulation promoted SHN3 expression and IL-4 production, along with repression of SHN2 expression. SHN3-deficient T cells showed a substantial defect in IL-4 production and expression of AP-1 components, particularly c-Jun and Jun B. This loss of early IL-4 production led to reduced GATA3 expression and impaired Th2 differentiation. Together, these findings uncover SHN3 as a novel, critical regulator of Th2 development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Cunha
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyLoyola UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Toru Koike
- Department of Biology, Faculty of ScienceShizuoka UniversityShizuokaJapan
| | - Yoichi Seki
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyLoyola UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Van Kampen Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Stritch School of MedicineLoyola UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Mutsumi Yamamoto
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyLoyola UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Van Kampen Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Stritch School of MedicineLoyola UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Makio Iwashima
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyLoyola UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Van Kampen Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Stritch School of MedicineLoyola UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Wan S, Ni L, Zhao X, Liu X, Xu W, Jin W, Wang X, Dong C. Costimulation molecules differentially regulate the ERK-Zfp831 axis to shape T follicular helper cell differentiation. Immunity 2021; 54:2740-2755.e6. [PMID: 34644536 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
T follicular helper (Tfh) cells play essential roles in regulating humoral immunity, especially germinal center reactions. However, how CD4+ T cells integrate the antigenic and costimulatory signals in Tfh cell development is still poorly understood. Here, we found that phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) + ionomycin (P+I) stimulation, together with interleukin-6 (IL-6), potently induce Tfh cell-like transcriptomic programs in vitro. The ERK kinase pathway was attenuated under P+I stimulation; ERK2 inhibition enhanced Tfh cell development in vitro and in vivo. We observed that inducible T cell costimulator (ICOS), but not CD28, lacked the ability to activate ERK, which was important in sustaining Tfh cell development. The transcription factor Zfp831, whose expression was repressed by ERK, promoted Tfh cell differentiation by directly upregulating the expression of the transcription factors Bcl6 and Tcf7. We have hence identified an ERK-Zfp831 axis, regulated by costimulation signaling, in critical regulation of Tfh cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Wan
- Institute of Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Ni
- Institute of Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohong Zhao
- Institute of Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xindong Liu
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Institute of Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Jin
- Institute of Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- Institute of Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Dong
- Institute of Immunology and School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; Shanghai Immune Therapy Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine-affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China.
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Functional CRISPR dissection of gene networks controlling human regulatory T cell identity. Nat Immunol 2020; 21:1456-1466. [PMID: 32989329 PMCID: PMC7577958 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-020-0784-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human regulatory T (Treg) cells are essential for immune homeostasis. The transcription factor (TF) FOXP3 maintains Treg cell identity, yet the complete set of key TFs that control Treg cell gene expression remains unknown. Here, we used pooled and arrayed Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) screens to identify TFs that regulate critical proteins in primary human Treg cells under basal and pro-inflammatory conditions. We then generated 54,424 single-cell transcriptomes from Treg cells subjected to genetic perturbations and cytokine stimulation, which revealed distinct gene networks individually regulated by FOXP3 and PRDM1, in addition to a network co-regulated by FOXO1 and IRF4. We also discovered that HIVEP2, not previously implicated in Treg cell function, co-regulates another gene network with SATB1 and is important for Treg cell-mediated immunosuppression. By integrating CRISPR screens and scRNA-seq profiling, we have uncovered novel transcriptional regulators and downstream gene networks in human Treg cells that could be targeted for immunotherapies.
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Regional, cellular and species difference of two key neuroinflammatory genes implicated in schizophrenia. Brain Behav Immun 2020; 88:826-839. [PMID: 32450195 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2020.05.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) regulates the expression of many inflammatory genes that are overexpressed in a subset of people with schizophrenia. Transcriptional reduction in one NF-κB inhibitor, Human Immunodeficiency Virus Enhancer Binding Protein 2 (HIVEP2), is found in the brain of patients, aligning with evidence of NF-κB over-activity. Cellular co-expression of HIVEP2 and cytokine transcripts is a prerequisite for a direct effect of HIVEP2 on pro-inflammatory transcription, and we do not know if changes in HIVEP2 and markers of neuroinflammation are occurring in the same brain cell type. We performed in situ hybridisation on postmortem dorsolateral prefrontal cortex tissue to map and compare the expression of HIVEP2 and Serpin Family A Member 3 (SERPINA3), one of the most consistently increased inflammatory genes in schizophrenia, between schizophrenia patients and controls. We find that HIVEP2 expression is neuronal and is decreased in almost all grey matter cortical layers in schizophrenia patients with neuroinflammation, and that SERPINA3 is increased in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex grey matter and white matter in the same group of patients. We are the first to map the upregulation of SERPINA3 to astrocytes and to some neurons, and find evidence to suggest that blood vessel-associated astrocytes are the main cellular source of SERPINA3 in the schizophrenia cortex. We show that a lack of HIVEP2 in mice does not cause astrocytic upregulation of Serpina3n but does induce its transcription in neurons. We speculate that HIVEP2 downregulation is not a direct cause of astrocytic pro-inflammatory cytokine synthesis in schizophrenia but may contribute to neuronally-mediated neuroinflammation.
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7
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Murphy CE, Lawther AJ, Webster MJ, Asai M, Kondo Y, Matsumoto M, Walker AK, Weickert CS. Nuclear factor kappa B activation appears weaker in schizophrenia patients with high brain cytokines than in non-schizophrenic controls with high brain cytokines. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:215. [PMID: 32680547 PMCID: PMC7368759 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01890-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background High inflammation status despite an absence of known infection characterizes a subpopulation of people with schizophrenia who suffer from more severe cognitive deficits, less cortical grey matter, and worse neuropathology. Transcripts encoding factors upstream of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a major transcriptional activator for the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines, are increased in the frontal cortex in schizophrenia compared to controls. However, the extent to which these changes are disease-specific, restricted to those with schizophrenia and high-neuroinflammatory status, or caused by loss of a key NF-κB inhibitor (HIVEP2) found in schizophrenia brain, has not been tested. Methods Post-mortem prefrontal cortex samples were assessed in 141 human brains (69 controls and 72 schizophrenia) and 13 brains of wild-type mice and mice lacking HIVEP2 (6 wild-type, 7 knockout mice). Gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and acute phase protein SERPINA3 was used to categorize high and low neuroinflammation biotype groups in human samples via cluster analysis. Expression of 18 canonical and non-canonical NF-κB pathway genes was assessed by qPCR in human and mouse tissue. Results In humans, we found non-canonical upstream activators of NF-κB were generally elevated in individuals with neuroinflammation regardless of diagnosis, supporting NF-κB activation in both controls and people with schizophrenia when cytokine mRNAs are high. However, high neuroinflammation schizophrenia patients had weaker (or absent) transcriptional increases of several canonical upstream activators of NF-κB as compared to the high neuroinflammation controls. HIVEP2 mRNA reduction was specific to patients with schizophrenia who also had high neuroinflammatory status, and we also found decreases in NF-κB transcripts typically induced by activated microglia in mice lacking HIVEP2. Conclusions Collectively, our results show that high cortical expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and low cortical expression of HIVEP2 in a subset of people with schizophrenia is associated with a relatively weak NF-κB transcriptional signature compared to non-schizophrenic controls with high cytokine expression. We speculate that this comparatively milder NF-κB induction may reflect schizophrenia-specific suppression possibly related to HIVEP2 deficiency in the cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Murphy
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker Street, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adam J Lawther
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker Street, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Maree J Webster
- Stanley Medical Research Institute, Kensington, Maryland, USA
| | - Makoto Asai
- Astellas Pharma Inc., Drug Discovery Research, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yuji Kondo
- Astellas Pharma Inc., Drug Discovery Research, Tsukuba, Japan
| | | | - Adam K Walker
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker Street, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash University, Parkville, Australia
| | - Cynthia Shannon Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker Street, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia. .,School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia. .,Department of Neuroscience & Physiology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA.
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8
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Fu G, Rybakin V, Brzostek J, Paster W, Acuto O, Gascoigne NRJ. Fine-tuning T cell receptor signaling to control T cell development. Trends Immunol 2014; 35:311-8. [PMID: 24951034 PMCID: PMC4119814 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2014.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
T cell development from immature CD4(+)CD8(+) double-positive (DP) thymocytes to the mature CD4 or CD8 single-positive (SP) stage requires proper T cell receptor (TCR) signaling. The current working model of thymocyte development is that the strength of the TCR-mediated signal - from little-or-none, through intermediate, to strong - received by the immature cells determines whether they will undergo death by neglect, positive selection, or negative selection, respectively. In recent years, several developmentally regulated, stage-specifically expressed proteins and miRNAs have been found that act like fine-tuners for signal transduction and propagation downstream of the TCR. This allows them to govern thymocyte positive selection. Here, we summarize recent findings on these molecules and suggest new concepts of TCR positive-selection signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Fu
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Vasily Rybakin
- Department of Microbiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117597
| | - Joanna Brzostek
- Department of Microbiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117597
| | - Wolfgang Paster
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Oreste Acuto
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Nicholas R J Gascoigne
- Department of Microbiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117597.
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Wei S, Zhang L, Zhou X, Du M, Jiang Z, Hausman GJ, Bergen WG, Zan L, Dodson MV. Emerging roles of zinc finger proteins in regulating adipogenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:4569-84. [PMID: 23760207 PMCID: PMC4100687 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-013-1395-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Revised: 05/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Proteins containing the zinc finger domain(s) are named zinc finger proteins (ZFPs), one of the largest classes of transcription factors in eukaryotic genomes. A large number of ZFPs have been studied and many of them were found to be involved in regulating normal growth and development of cells and tissues through diverse signal transduction pathways. Recent studies revealed that a small but increasing number of ZFPs could function as key transcriptional regulators involved in adipogenesis. Due to the prevalence of obesity and metabolic disorders, the investigation of molecular regulatory mechanisms of adipocyte development must be more completely understood in order to develop novel and long-term impact strategies for ameliorating obesity. In this review, we discuss recent work that has documented that ZFPs are important functional contributors to the regulation of adipogenesis. Taken together, these data lead to the conclusion that ZFPs may become promising targets to combat human obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengjuan Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi People’s Republic of China
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
| | - Lifan Zhang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
| | - Min Du
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
| | - Zhihua Jiang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
| | - Gary J. Hausman
- Animal Science Department, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-2771 USA
| | - Werner G. Bergen
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biosciences, Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 USA
| | - Linsen Zan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi People’s Republic of China
| | - Michael V. Dodson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
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Ubiquitination-deubiquitination by the TRIM27-USP7 complex regulates tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced apoptosis. Mol Cell Biol 2013; 33:4971-84. [PMID: 24144979 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00465-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) plays a role in apoptosis and proliferation in multiple types of cells, and defects in TNF-α-induced apoptosis are associated with various autoimmune diseases. Here, we show that TRIM27, a tripartite motif (TRIM) protein containing RING finger, B-box, and coiled-coil domains, positively regulates TNF-α-induced apoptosis. Trim27-deficient mice are resistant to TNF-α-d-galactosamine-induced hepatocyte apoptosis. Trim27-deficient mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) are also resistant to TNF-α-cycloheximide-induced apoptosis. TRIM27 forms a complex with and ubiquitinates the ubiquitin-specific protease USP7, which deubiquitinates receptor-interacting protein 1 (RIP1), resulting in the positive regulation of TNF-α-induced apoptosis. Our findings indicate that the ubiquitination-deubiquitination cascade mediated by the TRIM27-USP7 complex plays an important role in TNF-α-induced apoptosis.
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Ma D, Wei Y, Liu F. Regulatory mechanisms of thymus and T cell development. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 39:91-102. [PMID: 22227346 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2011.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2011] [Revised: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is a central hematopoietic organ which produces mature T lymphocytes with diverse antigen specificity. During development, the thymus primordium is derived from the third pharyngeal endodermal pouch, and then differentiates into cortical and medullary thymic epithelial cells (TECs). TECs represent the primary functional cell type that forms the unique thymic epithelial microenvironment which is essential for intrathymic T-cell development, including positive selection, negative selection and emigration out of the thymus. Our understanding of thymopoiesis has been greatly advanced by using several important animal models. This review will describe progress on the molecular mechanisms involved in thymus and T cell development with particular focus on the signaling and transcription factors involved in this process in mouse and zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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12
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Iwashita Y, Fukuchi N, Waki M, Hayashi K, Tahira T. Genome-wide repression of NF-κB target genes by transcription factor MIBP1 and its modulation by O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) transferase. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:9887-9900. [PMID: 22294689 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.298521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor c-MYC intron binding protein 1 (MIBP1) binds to various genomic regulatory regions, including intron 1 of c-MYC. This factor is highly expressed in postmitotic neurons in the fetal brain and may be involved in various biological steps, such as neurological and immunological processes. In this study, we globally characterized the transcriptional targets of MIBP1 and proteins that interact with MIBP1. Microarray hybridization followed by gene set enrichment analysis revealed that genes involved in the pathways downstream of MYC, NF-κB, and TGF-β were down-regulated when HEK293 cells stably overexpressed MIBP1. In silico transcription factor binding site analysis of the promoter regions of these down-regulated genes showed that the NF-κB binding site was the most overrepresented. The up-regulation of genes known to be in the NF-κB pathway after the knockdown of endogenous MIBP1 in HT1080 cells supports the view that MIBP1 is a down-regulator of the NF-κB pathway. We also confirmed the binding of the MIBP1 to the NF-κB site. By immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry, we detected O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) transferase as a prominent binding partner of MIBP1. Analyses using deletion mutants revealed that a 154-amino acid region of MIBP1 was necessary for its O-GlcNAc transferase binding and O-GlcNAcylation. A luciferase reporter assay showed that NF-κB-responsive expression was repressed by MIBP1, and stronger repression by MIBP1 lacking the 154-amino acid region was observed. Our results indicate that the primary effect of MIBP1 expression is the down-regulation of the NF-κB pathway and that this effect is attenuated by O-GlcNAc signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Iwashita
- Division of Genome Analysis, Research Center for Genetic Information, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Naruhiko Fukuchi
- Division of Genome Analysis, Research Center for Genetic Information, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Mariko Waki
- Division of Genome Analysis, Research Center for Genetic Information, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kenshi Hayashi
- Division of Genome Analysis, Research Center for Genetic Information, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Tomoko Tahira
- Division of Genome Analysis, Research Center for Genetic Information, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan; Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
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13
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Kelsey EM, Luo X, Brückner K, Jasper H. Schnurri regulates hemocyte function to promote tissue recovery after DNA damage. J Cell Sci 2012; 125:1393-400. [PMID: 22275438 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.095323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue recovery after injury requires coordinated regulation of cell repair and apoptosis, removal of dead cells and regeneration. A critical step in this process is the recruitment of blood cells that mediate local inflammatory and immune responses, promoting tissue recovery. Here we identify a new role for the transcriptional regulator Schnurri (Shn) in the recovery of UV-damaged Drosophila retina. Using an experimental paradigm that allows precise quantification of tissue recovery after a defined dose of UV, we find that Shn activity in the retina is required to limit tissue damage. This function of Shn relies on its transcriptional induction of the PDGF-related growth factor Pvf1, which signals to tissue-associated hemocytes. We show that the Pvf1 receptor PVR acts in hemocytes to induce a macrophage-like morphology and that this is required to limit tissue loss after irradiation. Our results identify a new Shn-regulated paracrine signaling interaction between damaged retinal cells and hemocytes that ensures recovery and homeostasis of the challenged tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Miriam Kelsey
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Box 633, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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Shukla A, Yuspa SH. CLIC4 and Schnurri-2: a dynamic duo in TGF-beta signaling with broader implications in cellular homeostasis and disease. NUCLEUS (AUSTIN, TEX.) 2012; 1:144-9. [PMID: 20617112 DOI: 10.4161/nucl.1.2.10920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
CLIC4 is a highly conserved, multifunctional member of the chloride intracellular channel family of proteins. The protein is largely cytoplasmic but translocates to the nucleus upon a variety of stimuli including TGF-beta, TNF-alpha and etoposide. Nuclear resident CLIC4 causes growth arrest, terminal differentiation and apoptosis. Recently, it was discovered that TGF-beta causes CLIC4 to associate with Schnurri-2 and together they translocate to the nucleus and dissociate thereafter. The nuclear function of CLIC4 was further illuminated by the discovery that CLIC4 enhances TGF-beta signaling by associating with phospho-Smad2 and 3 and preventing their dephosphorylation. Enhanced TGF-beta dependent gene expression and growth inhibition are downstream consequences of this activity of CLIC4. In this article, we speculate on other consequences of the CLIC4 relation to TGF-beta signaling and the potential for CLIC4 to participate in other cellular functions related to normal homeostasis and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Shukla
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, 37 Convent Drive, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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15
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Yamashita J, Iwamura C, Mitsumori K, Hosokawa H, Sasaki T, Takahashi M, Tanaka H, Kaneko K, Hanazawa A, Watanabe Y, Shinoda K, Tumes D, Motohashi S, Nakayama T. Murine Schnurri-2 controls natural killer cell function and lymphoma development. Leuk Lymphoma 2011; 53:479-86. [PMID: 21936769 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2011.625099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Schnurri (Shn)-2 is a large zinc finger-containing protein implicated in cell growth, signal transduction and lymphocyte development. Here, we report that Shn-2-deficient (Shn-2(-/-)) mice develop CD3-positive lymphoma spontaneously. In Shn-2(-/-) mice, we observed decreased cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells accompanied by decreased expression of perforin and granzyme-B. In addition, phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 5 was reduced in Shn-2(-/-) NK cells, while phosphorylation of STAT3 and protein expression of nuclear factor-κB p65 subunit were enhanced in Shn-2(-/-) NK cells. Moreover, cell-surface expression of activation molecules such as CD27, CD69 and CD122 were decreased on Shn-2(-/-) NK cells. Thus, Shn-2 is considered to play an important role in the activation and function of NK cells and the development of T cell lymphoma in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junji Yamashita
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan
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16
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Staton TL, Lazarevic V, Jones DC, Lanser AJ, Takagi T, Ishii S, Glimcher LH. Dampening of death pathways by schnurri-2 is essential for T-cell development. Nature 2011; 472:105-9. [PMID: 21475200 PMCID: PMC3077958 DOI: 10.1038/nature09848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2010] [Accepted: 01/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Generation of a diverse and self-tolerant T cell repertoire requires appropriate interpretation of T cell receptor (TCR) signals by CD4+CD8+ double positive (DP) thymocytes. Thymocyte cell fate is dictated by the nature of TCR:MHC-peptide interactions, with signals of higher strength leading to death (negative selection) and signals of intermediate strength leading to differentiation (positive selection)1. Molecules that regulate T cell development by modulating TCR signal strength have been described but components that specifically define the boundaries between positive and negative selection remain unknown. Here we show that repression of TCR-induced death pathways is critical for proper interpretation of positive selecting signals in vivo, and identify Schnurri2 (Shn2) as a crucial death dampener. Our results indicate that Shn2−/− DP thymocytes inappropriately undergo negative selection in response to positive selecting signals, thus leading to disrupted T cell development. Shn2−/− DP thymocytes are more sensitive to TCR-induced death in vitro and die in response to positive selection interactions in vivo. However, Shn2-deficient thymocytes can be positively selected when TCR-induced death is genetically-ablated. Shn2 levels increase after TCR stimulation suggesting that integration of multiple TCR:MHC-peptide interactions may fine tune the death threshold. Mechanistically, Shn2 functions downstream of TCR proximal signaling compenents to dampen Bax activation and the mitochondrial death pathway. Our findings uncover a critical regulator of T cell development that controls the balance between death and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Staton
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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17
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Nagao M, Saita Y, Hanyu R, Hemmi H, Notomi T, Hayata T, Nakamoto T, Nakashima K, Kaneko K, Kurosawa H, Ishii S, Ezura Y, Noda M. Schnurri-2 deficiency counteracts against bone loss induced by ovariectomy. J Cell Physiol 2011; 226:573-8. [PMID: 21069746 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Schnurri (Shn)-2 is a transcriptional modulator of bone formation and bone resorption and its deficiency causes low turnover state with higher cancellous bone mass due to the defects in osteoclasts that exceeds the defects in osteoblasts in mice. We addressed whether such low turnover of bone remodeling in Shn2 deficiency may be modulated in the absence of estrogen that induces high turnover state in vivo. Ovariectomy reduced bone mass in wild type compared to sham operated control mice and such reduction in bone mass was also observed in Shn2 deficient mice. However, due to the high levels of basal bone mass in Shn2 deficient mice, the bone mass levels after ovariectomy were still comparable to sham operated wild-type mice. Analysis indicated that estrogen depletion increased bone resorption at similar levels in wild type and Shn2 deficient mice though the basal levels of osteoclast number was slightly lower in Shn2-deficient mice. In contrast, basal levels of bone marrow cell mineralization in cultures were low in Shn2-deficeint mice while estrogen depletion increased the mineralization levels to those that were comparable to sham wild type. This indicates that Shn2-deficient mice maintain bone mass at the levels comparable to wild-type sham mice even after ovariectomy-induced bone loss and this correlates with the high levels of mineralization activity in bone marrow cells after ovariectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Nagao
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.
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18
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Wang L, Xiong Y, Bosselut R. Tenuous paths in unexplored territory: From T cell receptor signaling to effector gene expression during thymocyte selection. Semin Immunol 2010; 22:294-302. [PMID: 20537906 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2010.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2010] [Accepted: 04/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
During the last step of alphabeta T cell development, thymocytes that have rearranged genes encoding TCR chains and express CD4 and CD8 coreceptors are selected on the basis of their TCR reactivity to escape programmed cell death and become mature CD4 or CD8 T cells. This process is triggered by intrathymic TCR signaling, that activates 'sensor' transcription factors 'constitutively' expressed in DP thymocytes. Eventually, TCR-signaled thymocytes evolve effector transcriptional circuits that control basal metabolism, migration, survival and initiation of lineage-specific gene expression. This review examines how components of the 'sensing' transcription apparatus responds to positive selection signals, and highlights important differences with mature T cell responses. In a second part, we evaluate current observations and hypotheses on the connections between sensing transcription factors and effector circuitries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lie Wang
- Laboratory of Immune Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-4259, USA
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19
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Yin J, Yu L, Savage-Dunn C. Alternative trans-splicing of Caenorhabditis elegans sma-9/schnurri generates a short transcript that provides tissue-specific function in BMP signaling. BMC Mol Biol 2010; 11:46. [PMID: 20565799 PMCID: PMC2904332 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2199-11-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transcription cofactors related to Drosophila Schnurri facilitate the transcriptional programs regulated by BMP signaling in C. elegans, Drosophila, Xenopus, and mouse. In different systems, Schnurri homologs have been shown to act as either agonists or antagonists of Smad function, and as either positive or negative regulators of transcription. How Schnurri proteins achieve this diversity of activities is not clear. The C. elegans sma-9/schnurri locus undergoes alternative splicing, including an unusual trans-splicing event that could generate two non-overlapping shorter transcripts. Results We demonstrate here that the shorter transcripts are expressed in vivo. Furthermore, we find that one of the short transcripts plays a tissue-specific role in sma-9 function, contributing to the patterning of male-specific sensory rays, but not to the regulation of body size. Based on previous results, we suggest that this transcript encodes a C-terminal SMA-9 isoform that may provide transcriptional activation activity, while full length isoforms may mediate transcriptional repression and/or activation in a context-dependent manner. Conclusion The alternative trans-splicing of sma-9 may contribute to the diversity of functions necessary to mediate tissue-specific outputs of BMP signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghua Yin
- Department of Biology, Queens College, and Biochemistry PhD Program, Graduate School and University Center, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, USA
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20
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Uncoupling of growth plate maturation and bone formation in mice lacking both Schnurri-2 and Schnurri-3. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:8254-8. [PMID: 20404140 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1003727107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Formation and remodeling of the skeleton relies on precise temporal and spatial regulation of genes expressed in cartilage and bone cells. Debilitating diseases of the skeletal system occur when mutations arise that disrupt these intricate genetic regulatory programs. Here, we report that mice bearing parallel null mutations in the adapter proteins Schnurri2 (Shn2) and Schnurri3 (Shn3) exhibit defects in patterning of the axial skeleton during embryogenesis. Postnatally, these compound mutant mice develop a unique osteochondrodysplasia. The deletion of Shn2 and Shn3 impairs growth plate maturation during endochondral ossification but simultaneously results in massively elevated trabecular bone formation. Hence, growth plate maturation and bone formation can be uncoupled under certain circumstances. These unexpected findings demonstrate that both unique and redundant functions reside in the Schnurri protein family that are required for proper skeletal patterning and remodeling.
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Feng X, Ippolito GC, Tian L, Wiehagen K, Oh S, Sambandam A, Willen J, Bunte RM, Maika SD, Harriss JV, Caton AJ, Bhandoola A, Tucker PW, Hu H. Foxp1 is an essential transcriptional regulator for the generation of quiescent naive T cells during thymocyte development. Blood 2010; 115:510-8. [PMID: 19965654 PMCID: PMC2810984 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2009-07-232694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2009] [Accepted: 10/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper thymocyte development is required to establish T-cell central tolerance and to generate naive T cells, both of which are essential for T-cell homeostasis and a functional immune system. Here we demonstrate that the loss of transcription factor Foxp1 results in the abnormal development of T cells. Instead of generating naive T cells, Foxp1-deficient single-positive thymocytes acquire an activated phenotype prematurely in the thymus and lead to the generation of peripheral CD4(+) T and CD8(+) T cells that exhibit an activated phenotype and increased apoptosis and readily produce cytokines upon T-cell receptor engagement. These results identify Foxp1 as an essential transcriptional regulator for thymocyte development and the generation of quiescent naive T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Feng
- Immunology Program and Wistar Vaccine Center, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Nakayama T, Kimura MY. Memory Th1/Th2 cell generation controlled by Schnurri-2. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2010; 684:1-10. [PMID: 20795536 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-6451-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Schnurri (Shn) is a large zinc-finger containingprotein, which plays a critical role in cell growth, signal transduction and lymphocyte development. There are three orthologues (Shn-1, Shn-2 and Shn-3) in vertebrates. In Shn-2-deficient mice, the activation of NF-kappaB in CD4 T cells is upregulated and their ability to differentiate into Th2 cells is enhanced in part through the increased expression of GATA3. Shn-2 is found to compete with p50 NF-kappaB for binding to a consensus NF-kappaB motif and inhibit the NF-kappaB-driven promoter activity. In addition, Th2-driven allergic airway inflammation was enhanced in Shn-2-deficient mice. Therefore, Shn-2 appears to negatively control the differentiation of Th2 cells and Th2 responses through the repression of NF-kappaB function. Memory Th1/Th2 cells are not properly generated from Shn-2-deficient effector Th1/Th2 cells. The expression levels of CD69 and the number ofapoptotic cells are selectively increased in Shn-2-deficient Thl/Th2 cells when they are transferred into syngeneic host animals, in which memoryh Th1/Th2 cells are generated within a month. In addition, an increased susceptibility to apoptotic cell death is also observed in vitro accompanied with the increased expression of FasL, one of the NF-kappaB-dependent genes. Th2 effector cells overexpressing the p65 subunit of NF-kappaB demonstrate a decreased cell survival particularly in the lymph node. These results indicate that Shn-2-mediated repression of NF-kappaB is required for cell survival and the successful generation of memory Th1/Th2 cells. This may point to the possibility that after antigen clearance the recovery of the quiescent state in effector Th cells is required for the generation of memory Th cells. A repressor molecule Shn-2 plays an important role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshinori Nakayama
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan.
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McGargill MA, Ch'en IL, Katayama CD, Pagès G, Pouysségur J, Hedrick SM. Cutting edge: Extracellular signal-related kinase is not required for negative selection of developing T cells. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2009; 183:4838-42. [PMID: 19801509 PMCID: PMC2847885 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0902208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Signals initiated through the TCR during development can result in either survival and differentiation or cell death. High affinity signals that induce death elicit a robust yet transient activation of signaling pathways, including Erk, whereas low affinity ligands, which promote survival, generate a gradual and weaker activation of the same pathways. It was recently demonstrated that Erk localizes to distinct cellular locations in response to high and low affinity ligands. Although a requirement for Erk in positive selection is well established, its role in negative selection is controversial and, thus, the importance of Erk relocalization during development is not understood. In this study, we examined the role of Erk in negative selection using mice that are genetically deficient in both Erk1 and Erk2 in T cells. Results from three different models reveal that thymocyte deletion remains intact in the absence of Erk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen A. McGargill
- Molecular Biology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Irene L. Ch'en
- Molecular Biology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Carol D. Katayama
- Molecular Biology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Gilles Pagès
- University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Institute of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, UMR Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 6543, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France
| | - Jacques Pouysségur
- University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Institute of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, UMR Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 6543, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France
| | - Stephen M. Hedrick
- Molecular Biology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093
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24
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Cai Y, Laughon A. The Drosophila Smad cofactor Schnurri engages in redundant and synergistic interactions with multiple corepressors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2009; 1789:232-45. [PMID: 19437622 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2009.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In Drosophila a large zinc finger protein, Schnurri, functions as a Smad cofactor required for repression of brinker and other negative targets in response to signaling by the transforming growth factor beta ligand, Decapentaplegic. Schnurri binds to the silencer-bound Smads through a cluster of zinc fingers located near its carboxy-terminus and silences via a separate repression domain adjacent to this zinc-finger cluster. Here we show that this repression domain functions through interaction with two corepressors, dCtBP and dSin3A, and that either interaction is sufficient for repression. We also report that Schnurri contains additional repression domains that function through interaction with dCtBP, Groucho, dSin3A and SMRTER. By testing for the ability to rescue a shn RNAi phenotype we provide evidence that these diverse repression domains are both cooperative and partially redundant. In addition we find that Shn harbors a region capable of transcriptional activation, consistent with evidence that Schnurri can function as an activator as well as a repressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Cai
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin, 425G Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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25
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Shukla A, Malik M, Cataisson C, Ho Y, Friesen T, Suh KS, Yuspa SH. TGF-beta signalling is regulated by Schnurri-2-dependent nuclear translocation of CLIC4 and consequent stabilization of phospho-Smad2 and 3. Nat Cell Biol 2009; 11:777-84. [PMID: 19448624 PMCID: PMC2825893 DOI: 10.1038/ncb1885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2008] [Accepted: 03/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CLIC4 (chloride intracellular channel 4), a multifunctional protein that traffics between the cytoplasm and nucleus, interacts with Schnurri-2, a transcription factor in the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling pathway. Here we show that transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) promotes the expression of CLIC4 and Schnurri-2 as well as their association in the cytoplasm and their translocation to the nucleus. In the absence of CLIC4 or Schnurri-2, TGF-beta signalling is abrogated. Direct nuclear targeting of CLIC4 enhances TGF-beta signalling and removes the requirement for Schnurri-2. Nuclear CLIC4 associates with phospho (p)-Smad2 and p-Smad3, protecting them from dephosphorylation by nuclear phosphatases. An intact TGF-beta signalling pathway is essential for CLIC4-mediated growth-arrest. These results newly identify Schnurri-2 and CLIC4 as modifiers of TGF-beta signalling through their stabilization of p-Smad2 and 3 in the nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Shukla
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, 37 Convent Drive, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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26
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Jones DC, Glimcher LH. Regulation of bone formation and immune cell development by Schnurri proteins. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2009; 658:117-22. [PMID: 19950022 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-1050-9_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although identified over a decade ago, the function and physiological significance of the mammalian Schnurri protein family remained largely unknown. However, the recent generation and characterization of mice bearing null mutations in the individual Schnurri genes has led to the discovery of unexpected yet central roles for these large zinc-finger proteins in several biological processes. Here, we review findings of these studies and discuss the importance of the Schnurri protein family in regulating both the immune and skeletal systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas C Jones
- Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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27
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Lauritsen JPH, Kurella S, Lee SY, Lefebvre JM, Rhodes M, Alberola-Ila J, Wiest DL. Egr2 is required for Bcl-2 induction during positive selection. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2008; 181:7778-85. [PMID: 19017967 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.181.11.7778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The repertoire of TCR specificities is established by a selection process in the thymus, during which precursor survival and maturation is dictated by the nature of the TCR signals. The differences in signals that determine whether precursors will survive and mature or be induced to die remain poorly understood. Among the molecular effectors involved in executing the differentiation process initiated by TCR-ligand interactions is a family of Zn-finger transcription factors termed early growth response genes (Egr). Indeed, ablation of the Egr1 gene impairs ligand-induced maturation (positive selection) but not ligand-induced deletion (negative selection). The partial impairment of positive selection by Egr1 deficiency is not enhanced by simultaneous deletion of another Egr family member, Egr3. Accordingly, we asked whether this results from compensation by another family member, Egr2. In this manuscript, we demonstrate that deletion of Egr2 impairs positive selection of both CD4 and CD8 single-positive thymocytes. Interestingly, many of the genes involved in positive selection and T cell differentiation are up-regulated normally in the Egr2-deficient thymocytes. However, Bcl-2 up-regulation is not sustained during late stages of positive selection. This defect is at least partially responsible for the developmental blockade in Egr2-deficient thymocytes, as enforced expression of Bcl-2 rescues T cell development in Egr2(-/-) thymocytes. Taken together, these data suggest that Egr2 plays a central role in the up-regulation of the survival molecule Bcl-2 during positive selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens-Peter Holst Lauritsen
- Division of Basic Sciences, Immunobiology Working Group, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
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28
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Tzachanis D, Li L, Lafuente EM, Berezovskaya A, Freeman GJ, Boussiotis VA. Twisted gastrulation (Tsg) is regulated by Tob and enhances TGF-beta signaling in activated T lymphocytes. Blood 2007; 109:2944-52. [PMID: 17164348 PMCID: PMC1852213 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2006-03-006510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Quiescent T cells express Tob, an APRO gene family member, which functions as a transcriptional regulator. Subtractive hybridization identified Twisted gastrulation (Tsg) as one of the genes suppressed by Tob. Tsg is a secreted protein that interacts with Drosophila decapentaplegic (Dpp) and its vertebrate orthologs BMP2/4 and regulates morphogenetic effects in embryos. Here, we report the expression and function of Tsg in human T cells. Tsg mRNA was almost undetectable in unstimulated T cells and was up-regulated after activation by TCR/CD3 and either CD28, IL-2, or PMA. Tsg protein had no effect on responses of primary T cells to TCR/CD3 stimulation but had a potent inhibitory effect on proliferation and cytokine production of primed alloreactive CD4+ cells. Surprisingly, Tsg did not affect phosphorylation of the BMP-specific Smad1 but induced phosphorylation of the TGF-beta-specific Smad2 and mediated DNA binding on Smad3/4 consensus-binding sites, suggesting that it acted downstream of TGF-beta. In vitro association assays revealed a direct interaction of Tsg and TGF-beta proteins. Thus, Tsg functions as an agonist synergizing with TGF-beta to inhibit T-cell activation. Modulation of Tsg signaling may represent a novel target for molecular intervention toward control of aberrant T-cell responses during ongoing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Tzachanis
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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29
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Kimura MY, Iwamura C, Suzuki A, Miki T, Hasegawa A, Sugaya K, Yamashita M, Ishii S, Nakayama T. Schnurri-2 controls memory Th1 and Th2 cell numbers in vivo. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2007; 178:4926-36. [PMID: 17404274 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.178.8.4926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Schnurri-2 (Shn-2) is a large zinc-finger containing protein, and it plays a critical role in cell growth, signal transduction and lymphocyte development. In Shn-2-deficient CD4 T cells, the activation of NF-kappaB was up-regulated and their ability to differentiate into Th2 cells was enhanced. We herein demonstrate that Th1 and Th2 memory cells are not properly generated from Shn-2-deficient effector Th1/Th2 cells. Even a week after the transfer of effector Th1/Th2 cells into syngeneic mice, a dramatic decrease in the number of Shn-2-deficient donor T cells was detected particularly in the lymphoid organs. The transferred Shn-2-deficient Th1/Th2 cells express higher levels of the activation marker CD69. No significant defect in the BrdU incorporation in the Shn-2-deficient transferred CD4 T cells was observed. The numbers of apoptotic cells were selectively higher in Shn-2-deficient donor Th1/Th2 cell population. Moreover, Shn-2-deficient effector Th1 and Th2 cells showed an increased susceptibility to cell death in in vitro cultures with increased expression of FasL. Transfer of Th2 effector cells over-expressing the p65 subunit of NF-kappaB resulted in a decreased number of p65-expressing cells in the lymphoid organs. As expected, T cell-dependent Ab responses after in vivo immunization of Shn-2-deficient mice were significantly reduced. Thus, Shn-2 appears to control the generation of memory Th1/Th2 cells through a change in their susceptibility to cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoko Y Kimura
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
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30
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Liang J, Yu L, Yin J, Savage-Dunn C. Transcriptional repressor and activator activities of SMA-9 contribute differentially to BMP-related signaling outputs. Dev Biol 2007; 305:714-25. [PMID: 17397820 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2007.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2006] [Revised: 01/09/2007] [Accepted: 02/27/2007] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the BMP-related growth factor DBL-1 regulates body size and male tail morphogenesis via a conserved receptor/Smad signaling pathway. Smads are transcription factors, but rely on transcription cofactors for appropriate regulation of target genes in response to TGF-beta- and BMP-related signals. In the DBL-1 pathway, sma-9 encodes multiple zinc finger transcription factors homologous to Drosophila Schnurri, which functions in Dpp/BMP signaling. We have studied the molecular functions of SMA-9 as a model for transcription cofactor-dependent regulation of gene expression. Using SMA-9 fusions to known transcriptional activators and repressors, we demonstrate that SMA-9 acts primarily as a transcriptional repressor in body size regulation in vivo. In contrast, both activator and repressor functions contribute to male tail patterning. We further show that different SMA-9 regions have intrinsic repressor and activator activities using a yeast transcription assay. We use microarray analysis to identify transcriptional target genes in body size regulation. Consistent with the importance of repression in mediating body size regulation, we find more repressed genes than activated genes in this pool. Finally, we identify five transcriptional targets with body size and/or male tail patterning phenotypes, including transcription factors related to Runx and fos and signaling molecules related to hedgehog and patched. Our results thus suggest that SMA-9 products function differentially as transcriptional repressors and activators in DBL-1/BMP pathway regulated body size and male tail morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liang
- Department of Biology, Queens College, and Biochemistry PhD Program, the Graduate School and University Center, the City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA
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31
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Saita Y, Takagi T, Kitahara K, Usui M, Miyazono K, Ezura Y, Nakashima K, Kurosawa H, Ishii S, Noda M. Lack of Schnurri-2 expression associates with reduced bone remodeling and osteopenia. J Biol Chem 2007; 282:12907-15. [PMID: 17311925 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m611203200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulation of bone remodeling determines the levels of bone mass and its imbalance causes major skeletal diseases such as osteoporosis. A zinc finger protein, Schnurri-2 (SHN-2), was recently demonstrated to regulate bone morphogenetic protein-dependent adipogenesis and lymphogenesis. However, the role of SHN-2 in bone is not known. Here, we investigated the effects of Shn-2 deficiency on bone metabolism and cell function in Shn-2-null mice. Lack of SHN-2 expression reduced bone remodeling by suppressing both osteoblastic bone formation and osteoclastic bone resorption activities in vivo. Shn-2 deficiency suppressed osterix and osteocalcin expression as well as in vitro mineralization. Conversely, Shn-2 overexpression enhanced osteocalcin promoter activity and bone morphogenetic protein-dependent osteoblastic differentiation. Shn-2 deficiency suppressed Nfatc1 and c-fos expression leading to reduction of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive cell development in vivo as well as in the cultures of bone marrow cells. These studies demonstrate that SHN-2 regulates the activities of critical transcription factors required for normal bone remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitomo Saita
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
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32
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Licona-Limón P, Soldevila G. The role of TGF-beta superfamily during T cell development: new insights. Immunol Lett 2007; 109:1-12. [PMID: 17287030 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2006.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2006] [Revised: 12/21/2006] [Accepted: 12/23/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Members of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily are soluble factors that regulate a variety of functional responses including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and cell cycle, among others, depending not only on the cell type and its differentiation state, but also on the milieu of cytokines present. All three members of this superfamily: TGF-betas, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and Activins, have been shown to be expressed in the thymus suggesting their potential role as regulators of the T lymphocyte differentiation process. Although initial reports described the role of TGF-beta in controlling specific checkpoints during thymocyte development, recent data has provided new evidence on the role of BMPs and Activins in this process. This review provides new insights on the function of members of the TGF-beta superfamily at different stages of thymocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Licona-Limón
- Department of Immunology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Escolar s/n, México DF-04510, Mexico
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33
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Allen CE, Richards J, Muthusamy N, Auer H, Liu Y, Robinson ML, Barnard JA, Wu LC. Disruption of ZAS3 in mice alters NF-kappaB and AP-1 DNA binding and T-cell development. Gene Expr 2007; 14:83-100. [PMID: 18257392 PMCID: PMC6042042 DOI: 10.3727/105221607783417574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The large zinc finger proteins, ZAS, regulate the transcription of a variety of genes involved in cell growth, development, and metastasis. They also function in the signal transduction of the TGF-beta and TNF-alpha pathways. However, the endogenous protein of a representative member, ZAS3, is rapidly degraded in primary lymphocytes, which limits the determination of its physiological function in vitro. Therefore, we have generated mice with targeted disruption of ZAS3. Oligonucleotide-based microarray analyses revealed subtle but consistent differences in the expression of genes, many of which are associated with receptor or signal transduction activities between ZAS3+/+ and ZAS3-/- thymi. Gel mobility shift assays showed altered DNA binding activities of NF-kappaB and AP-1 proteins in ZAS3-deficient tissues, including the thymus. Lymphocyte analysis suggested a subtle but broad function of ZAS3 in regulating T-cell development and activation. In CD3+ ZAS3-/- thymocytes, the CD4/ CD8 ratio was decreased and CD69 expression was decreased. In peripheral CD4+ ZAS3-/- lymphocytes we observed an increased number of memory T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl E. Allen
- *Department of Pediatrics and Center for Cell and Developmental Biology, Columbus Children’s Research Institute, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- †Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - John Richards
- ‡Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Natarajan Muthusamy
- §Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Herbert Auer
- *Department of Pediatrics and Center for Cell and Developmental Biology, Columbus Children’s Research Institute, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- ‡Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Michael L. Robinson
- *Department of Pediatrics and Center for Cell and Developmental Biology, Columbus Children’s Research Institute, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - John A. Barnard
- *Department of Pediatrics and Center for Cell and Developmental Biology, Columbus Children’s Research Institute, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Lai-Chu Wu
- †Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- §Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- ¶Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Foehr ML, Lindy AS, Fairbank RC, Amin NM, Xu M, Yanowitz J, Fire AZ, Liu J. An antagonistic role for theC. elegansSchnurri homolog SMA-9 in modulating TGFβ signaling during mesodermal patterning. Development 2006; 133:2887-96. [PMID: 16790477 DOI: 10.1242/dev.02476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In C. elegans, the Sma/Mab TGFβ signaling pathway regulates body size and male tail patterning. SMA-9, the C. elegans homolog of Schnurri, has been shown to function as a downstream component to mediate the Sma/Mab TGFβ signaling pathway in these processes. We have discovered a new role for SMA-9 in dorsoventral patterning of the C. eleganspost-embryonic mesoderm, the M lineage. In addition to a small body size, sma-9 mutant animals exhibit a dorsal-to-ventral fate transformation within the M lineage. This M lineage defect of sma-9 mutants is unique in that animals carrying mutations in all other known components of the TGFβ pathway exhibit no M lineage defects. Surprisingly, mutations in the core components of the Sma/Mab TGFβ signaling pathway suppressed the M lineage defects of sma-9 mutants without suppressing their body size defects. We show that this suppression specifically happens within the M lineage. Our studies have uncovered an unexpected role of SMA-9 in antagonizing the TGFβ signaling pathway during mesodermal patterning,suggesting a novel mode of function for the SMA-9/Schnurri family of proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa L Foehr
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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35
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Takagi T, Jin W, Taya K, Watanabe G, Mori K, Ishii S. Schnurri-2 mutant mice are hypersensitive to stress and hyperactive. Brain Res 2006; 1108:88-97. [PMID: 16836985 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2005] [Revised: 06/05/2006] [Accepted: 06/05/2006] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)/transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta)/activin superfamily regulates development of the nervous system during embryogenesis and is also suggested to be involved in adult brain function. However, how BMP/TGF-beta/activin signals modulate neuronal function remains unknown. Schnurri is a transcription factor that contains two metal finger regions. Mammalian Shn-2 enters the nucleus from the cytoplasm in response to BMP-2 stimulation and plays an important role in BMP-dependent adipogenesis. To investigate whether mammalian Shn plays a role in adult brain function, we examined the behaviors of mutant mice lacking Shn-2 (Shn-2(-/-)). Shn-2(-/-) mice exhibited hypersensitivity to stress accompanied by anxiety-like behavior. Consistent with this, stress-induced corticosterone levels were significantly higher in Shn-2(-/-) mice compared to wild-type controls. Interestingly, Shn-2(-/-) mice were more active than wild-type mice in a familiar environment. The basal and stress-induced expression levels of the immediate early genes, including c-Fos, were decreased in Shn-2(-/-) mice compared to wild-type mice. Thus, Shn-2 plays a critical role in locomotion and anxiety-like behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Takagi
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, RIKEN Tsukuba Institute, 3-1-1 Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
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36
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Jin W, Takagi T, Kanesashi SN, Kurahashi T, Nomura T, Harada J, Ishii S. Schnurri-2 controls BMP-dependent adipogenesis via interaction with Smad proteins. Dev Cell 2006; 10:461-71. [PMID: 16580992 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2006.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2005] [Revised: 11/25/2005] [Accepted: 02/21/2006] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Adipocyte differentiation is an important component of obesity, but how hormonal cues mediate adipocyte differentiation remains elusive. BMP stimulates in vitro adipocyte differentiation, but the role of BMP in adipogenesis in vivo is unknown. Drosophila Schnurri (Shn) is required for the signaling of Decapentaplegic, a Drosophila BMP homolog, via interaction with the Mad/Medea transcription factors. Vertebrates have three Shn orthologs, Shn-1, -2, and -3. Here, we report that Shn-2(-/-) mice have reduced white adipose tissue and that Shn-2(-/-) mouse embryonic fibroblasts cannot efficiently differentiate into adipocytes in vitro. Shn-2 enters the nucleus upon BMP-2 stimulation and, in cooperation with Smad1/4 and C/EBPalpha, induces the expression of PPARgamma2, a key transcription factor for adipocyte differentiation. Shn-2 directly interacts with both Smad1/4 and C/EBPalpha on the PPARgamma2 promoter. These results indicate that Shn-2-mediated BMP signaling has a critical role in adipogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanzhu Jin
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, RIKEN Tsukuba Institute, 3-1-1 Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
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37
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Aliahmad P, Kaye J. Commitment issues: linking positive selection signals and lineage diversification in the thymus. Immunol Rev 2006; 209:253-73. [PMID: 16448547 DOI: 10.1111/j.0105-2896.2006.00345.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The thymus is responsible for the production of CD4+ helper and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, which constitute the cellular arm of the immune system. These cell types derive from common precursors that interact with thymic stroma in a T-cell receptor (TCR)-specific fashion, generating intracellular signals that are translated into function-specific changes in gene expression. This overall process is termed positive selection, but it encompasses a number of temporally distinct and possibly mechanistically distinct cellular changes, including rescue from apoptosis, initiation of cell differentiation, and commitment to the CD4+ or CD8+ T-cell lineage. One of the puzzling features of positive selection is how specificity of the TCR controls lineage commitment, as both helper and cytolytic T cells utilize the same antigen-receptor components, with the exception of the CD4 or CD8 coreceptors themselves. In this review, we focus on the signals required for positive selection, particularly as they relate to lineage commitment. Identification of genes encoding transcriptional regulators that play a role in T-cell development has led to significant recent advances in the field. We also provide an overview of nuclear factors in this context and, where known, how their regulation is linked to the same TCR signals that have been implicated in initiating and regulating positive selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parinaz Aliahmad
- Department of Immunology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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38
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Licona P, Chimal-Monroy J, Soldevila G. Inhibins are the major activin ligands expressed during early thymocyte development. Dev Dyn 2006; 235:1124-32. [PMID: 16477644 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins are members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFbeta) superfamily, which regulate cell differentiation processes. Here we report the first quantitative analysis of the expression of Activin/Inhibin ligands, type I and II receptors, as well as Smad proteins in fetal (E14-E16) and adult thymic subpopulations. Our data showed that Alk4, ActRIIA, ActRIIB, and Smads 2, 3, and 4, are expressed in fetal thymus (E14 > E15 > E16) and in thymocytes from adult mice (mostly in the double negative [DN] subpopulation). Ligand expression analysis showed that betaA, betaB, and alpha subunits were mainly detected in thymic stromal cells. Interestingly, alpha subunits were expressed at much higher levels compared to betaA and betaB subunits, demonstrating for the first time the potential role of Inhibins as important mediators during early T cell development. Our data indicate that Activin/Inhibin signaling could regulate the process of thymus organogenesis and early thymocyte differentiation, as it has been demonstrated for other members of the TGF-beta superfamily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Licona
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Escolar s/n, México DF-04510
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39
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Kimura MY, Hosokawa H, Yamashita M, Hasegawa A, Iwamura C, Watarai H, Taniguchi M, Takagi T, Ishii S, Nakayama T. Regulation of T helper type 2 cell differentiation by murine Schnurri-2. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 201:397-408. [PMID: 15699073 PMCID: PMC2213028 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20040733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Schnurri (Shn) is a large zinc finger protein implicated in cell growth, signal transduction, and lymphocyte development. Vertebrates possess at least three Shn orthologues (Shn-1, Shn-2, and Shn-3), which appear to act within the bone morphogenetic protein, transforming growth factor beta, and activin signaling pathways. However, the physiological functions of the Shn proteins remain largely unknown. In Shn-2-deficient mice, mature peripheral T cells exhibited normal anti-T cell receptor-induced proliferation, although there was dramatic enhancement in the differentiation into T helper type (Th)2 cells and a marginal effect on Th1 cell differentiation. Shn-2-deficient developing Th2 cells showed constitutive activation of nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) and enhanced GATA3 induction. Shn-2 was able to compete with p50 NF-kappaB for binding to a consensus NF-kappaB motif and inhibit NF-kappaB-driven promoter activity. Thus, Shn-2 plays a crucial role in the control of Th2 cell differentiation by regulating NF-kappaB function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoko Y Kimura
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8670, Japan
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40
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Fujii H, Gabrielson E, Takagaki T, Ohtsuji M, Ohtsuji N, Hino O. Frequent down-regulation of HIVEP2 in human breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2005; 91:103-12. [PMID: 15868437 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-004-5779-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The HIVEP2 gene, located on 6q23-q24, belongs to a family of genes that encodes large zinc fingers containing transcription factor proteins. Although this gene has been implicated in the regulation of immune responses and cellular proliferation, its functions are largely unknown. In the present study, we investigated HIVEP2 gene abnormalities in microdissected breast cancer tissue. For real-time quantitational RT-PCR analysis of paired normal and tumor tissues, mRNA levels were down-regulated to a maximum of 96%. The overall median expression level in breast cancer (33 cases) was significantly lower than that in normal breast tissue (normalized median value of 4.49 versus 17.68; p < 0.0001). Through full-length 5'-RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends) analysis, we identified multiple exons in the 5'-untranslated regions with multiple transcriptional start sites, four of which were located in a large CpG island. No tissue- or cancer-specific usage patterns for the transcription start sites were identified by multiplex RT-PCR analysis. Only faint methylation was detected in the 5' region of the island in normal cells and breast cancer tissue, indicating physiological, aging and no tumor-specific methylation. Mutation screening showed only germline polymorphisms. Thus, down-regulation of the HIVEP2 genes frequently occurs and may be one of the genetic events responsible for breast cancer, and their transcription may be regulated by complex mechanisms involving interactions with other factors and/or by other genetic/epigenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Fujii
- Department of Pathology II, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan.
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41
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Oukka M, Wein MN, Glimcher LH. Schnurri-3 (KRC) interacts with c-Jun to regulate the IL-2 gene in T cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 199:15-24. [PMID: 14707112 PMCID: PMC1887724 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20030421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The activator protein 1 (AP-1) transcription factor is a key participant in the control of T cell proliferation, cytokine production, and effector function. In the immune system, AP-1 activity is highest in T cells, suggesting that a subset of T cell–specific coactivator proteins exist to selectively potentiate AP-1 function. Here, we describe that the expression of Schnurri-3, also known as κ recognition component (KRC), is induced upon T cell receptor signaling in T cells and functions to regulate the expression of the interleukin 2 (IL-2) gene. Overexpression of KRC in transformed and primary T cells leads to increased IL-2 production, whereas dominant-negative KRC, or loss of KRC protein in KRC-null mice, results in diminished IL-2 production. KRC physically associates with the c-Jun transcription factor and serves as a coactivator to augment AP-1–dependent IL-2 gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Oukka
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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42
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Zamoyska R, Lovatt M. Signalling in T-lymphocyte development: integration of signalling pathways is the key. Curr Opin Immunol 2004; 16:191-6. [PMID: 15023412 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2004.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
alpha beta T-cell development is restricted to the thymus. Interactions between developing lymphocytes and the thymic stroma, together with bone-marrow-derived monocytes and dendritic cells, are critical for proper development of the T-cell lineage. The developmental sequence through which T-cell progenitors pass on their way to maturity is well established, and can be followed by the sequential acquisition and/or removal of cell surface molecules. Using the combination of modern genetic manipulations, such as transgenesis, gene ablation (knockouts) and targeted mutagenesis (knock-ins), with the ever-improving conditional and inducible manipulation of gene expression, we are beginning to gain an understanding of how intercellular interactions can be relayed via intracellular signalling cascades to bring about nuclear re-organisation and the differentiated mature CD4(+) and CD8(+) subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Zamoyska
- Molecular Immunology, National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, London NW7 1AA, UK.
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43
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Dürr U, Henningfeld KA, Hollemann T, Knöchel W, Pieler T. Isolation and characterization of theXenopusHIVEP gene family. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 271:1135-44. [PMID: 15009192 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-1033.2004.04017.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The HIVEP gene family encodes for very large sequence-specific DNA binding proteins containing multiple zinc fingers. Three mammalian paralogous genes have been identified, HIVEP1, -2 and -3, as well as the closely related Drosophila gene, Schnurri. These genes have been found to directly participate in the transcriptional regulation of a variety of genes. Mammalian HIVEP members have been implicated in signaling by TNF-alpha and in the positive selection of thymocytes, while Schnurri has been shown to be an essential component of the TGF-beta signaling pathway. In this study, we describe the isolation of Xenopus HIVEP1, as well as partial cDNAs of HIVEP2 and -3. Analysis of the temporal and spatial expression of the XHIVEP transcripts during early embryogenesis revealed ubiquitous expression of the transcripts. Assays using Xenopus oocytes mapped XHIVEP1 domains that are responsible for nuclear export and import activity. The DNA binding specificity of XHIVEP was characterized using a PCR-mediated selection and gel mobility shift assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Dürr
- Abteilung Entwicklungsbiochemie, Universität Göttingen, Germany
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44
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von Boehmer H. Selection of the T-Cell Repertoire: Receptor-Controlled Checkpoints in T-Cell Development. Adv Immunol 2004; 84:201-38. [PMID: 15246254 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-2776(04)84006-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Harald von Boehmer
- Harvard Medical School, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts USA
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45
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Liang J, Lints R, Foehr ML, Tokarz R, Yu L, Emmons SW, Liu J, Savage-Dunn C. TheCaenorhabditis elegans schnurrihomologsma-9mediates stage- and cell type-specific responses to DBL-1 BMP-related signaling. Development 2003; 130:6453-64. [PMID: 14627718 DOI: 10.1242/dev.00863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In Caenorhabditis elegans, the DBL-1 pathway, a BMP/TGFβ-related signaling cascade, regulates body size and male tail development. We have cloned a new gene, sma-9, that encodes the C. elegans homolog of Schnurri, a large zinc finger transcription factor that regulates dpp target genes in Drosophila. Genetic interactions, the sma-9 loss-of-function phenotype, and the expression pattern suggest that sma-9 acts as a downstream component and is required in the DBL-1 signaling pathway, and thus provide the first evidence of a conserved role for Schnurri proteins in BMP signaling. Analysis of sma-9 mutant phenotypes demonstrates that SMA-9 activity is temporally and spatially restricted relative to known DBL-1 pathway components. In contrast with Drosophila schnurri, the presence of multiple alternatively spliced sma-9 transcripts suggests protein isoforms with potentially different cell sublocalization and molecular functions. We propose that SMA-9 isoforms function as transcriptional cofactors that confer specific responses to DBL-1 pathway activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liang
- Department of Biology, Queens College, The City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, USA
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46
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Campbell DB, Levitt P. Regionally restricted expression of the transcription factor c-myc intron 1 binding protein during brain development. J Comp Neurol 2003; 467:581-92. [PMID: 14624490 DOI: 10.1002/cne.10958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factors regulate proliferation, differentiation, and regionalization of the central nervous system. In a screen of developing cerebral cortex, we identified the transcription factor c-myc intron 1 binding protein (mibp1) due to its abundant expression. In this study, we analyzed the temporal and spatial expression patterns of mibp1 mRNA in developing mouse brain to address the putative role of this transcription factor in neural differentiation. Northern hybridization studies revealed that mibp1 is expressed first in the mouse dorsal telencephalon at embryonic day (E) 14.5, during peak neuronal production. In situ hybridization experiments revealed that mibp1 expression in the cerebral wall is most abundant in postmitotic cells of the cortical plate and absent from proliferative zones. Moreover, mibp1 is restricted to dorsal telencephalon during embryogenesis with expression only in the cerebral wall, olfactory bulb, and hippocampus. N-myc, a potential target of mibp1 regulation, exhibited complementary, nonoverlapping expression patterns in the telencephalon with greatest expression in proliferating cells of the ventricular zone from E12.5 to E14.5; N-myc was absent from the telencephalon by E15.5. The specificity and timing of mibp1 expression in the cerebral cortex suggests a role in maintaining a state of neuronal differentiation in the dorsal telencephalon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Campbell
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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Hong JW, Allen CE, Wu LC. Inhibition of NF-kappaB by ZAS3, a zinc-finger protein that also binds to the kappaB motif. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2003; 100:12301-6. [PMID: 14530385 PMCID: PMC218753 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2133048100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The ZAS proteins are large zinc-finger transcriptional proteins implicated in growth, signal transduction, and lymphoid development. Recombinant ZAS fusion proteins containing one of the two DNA-binding domains have been shown to bind specifically to the kappaB motif, but the endogenous ZAS proteins or their physiological functions are largely unknown. The kappaB motif, GGGACTTTCC, is a gene regulatory element found in promoters and enhancers of genes involved in immunity, inflammation, and growth. The Rel family of NF-kappaB, predominantly p65.p50 and p50.p50, are transcription factors well known for inducing gene expression by means of interaction with the kappaB motif during acute-phase responses. A functional link between ZAS and NF-kappaB, two distinct families of kappaB-binding proteins, stems from our previous in vitro studies that show that a representative member, ZAS3, associates with TRAF2, an adaptor molecule in tumor necrosis factor signaling, to inhibit NF-kappaB activation. Biochemical and genetic evidence presented herein shows that ZAS3 encodes major kappaB-binding proteins in B lymphocytes, and that NF-kappaB is constitutively activated in ZAS3-deficient B cells. The data suggest that ZAS3 plays crucial functions in maintaining cellular homeostasis, at least in part by inhibiting NF-kappaB by means of three mechanisms: inhibition of nuclear translocation of p65, competition for kappaB gene regulatory elements, and repression of target gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joung-Woo Hong
- Ohio State Biochemistry Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Abstract
A functional immune system requires the selection of T lymphocytes expressing receptors that are major histocompatibility complex restricted but tolerant to self-antigens. This selection occurs predominantly in the thymus, where lymphocyte precursors first assemble a surface receptor. In this review we summarize the current state of the field regarding the natural ligands and molecular factors required for positive and negative selection and discuss a model for how these disparate outcomes can be signaled via the same receptor. We also discuss emerging data on the selection of regulatory T cells. Such cells require a high-affinity interaction with self-antigens, yet differentiate into regulatory cells instead of being eliminated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy K Starr
- Center for Immunology and the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455, USA.
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Abstract
Activin A, a cytokine member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily, is expressed locally by the mesenchymal component of the hemopoietic microenvironment. Its expression is regulated on the mRNA level by different cytokines, and the biological activity of the protein is tightly controlled by several inhibitory molecules. Activin A affects hemopoietic cells of various lineages, as evidenced by in vitro studies of leukemia and lymphoma cell lines, which were used to elucidate the mechanism of its action. In the B-cell lineage, activin A is a cell cycle inhibitor, a mediator of apoptosis, and a cytokine antagonist. Limited information is available on the effects of activin A on normal hemopoietic cells. Recent studies suggest that it might be a negative regulator of normal B lymphopoiesis. Whereas the functions of activin A in vitro are well established, further research tools are needed to elucidate its role within specific hemopoietic microenvironments in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Shav-Tal
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Abstract
T cell antigen receptor-induced signals are required for normal T cell development and function. Recent studies have investigated the mechanism(s) by which signals of different strengths are converted into distinct cellular fates during thymocyte development. These studies indicate the importance of the strength and duration of signals activated through PLC and PKC pathways in shaping the mature TCR repertoire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Love
- Laboratory of Mammalian Genes and Development, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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