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Gauberg J, Moreno KB, Jayaraman K, Abumeri S, Jenkins S, Salazar AM, Meharena HS, Glasgow SM. Spinal motor neuron development and metabolism are transcriptionally regulated by Nuclear Factor IA. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.26.600888. [PMID: 38979382 PMCID: PMC11230388 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.26.600888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Neural circuits governing all motor behaviors in vertebrates rely on the proper development of motor neurons and their precise targeting of limb muscles. Transcription factors are essential for motor neuron development, regulating their specification, migration, and axonal targeting. While transcriptional regulation of the early stages of motor neuron specification is well-established, much less is known about the role of transcription factors in the later stages of maturation and terminal arborization. Defining the molecular mechanisms of these later stages is critical for elucidating how motor circuits are constructed. Here, we demonstrate that the transcription factor Nuclear Factor-IA (NFIA) is required for motor neuron positioning, axonal branching, and neuromuscular junction formation. Moreover, we find that NFIA is required for proper mitochondrial function and ATP production, providing a new and important link between transcription factors and metabolism during motor neuron development. Together, these findings underscore the critical role of NFIA in instructing the assembly of spinal circuits for movement.
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Catela C, Assimacopoulos S, Chen Y, Tsioras K, Feng W, Kratsios P. The Iroquois ( Iro/Irx) homeobox genes are conserved Hox targets involved in motor neuron development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.30.596714. [PMID: 38853975 PMCID: PMC11160718 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.30.596714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The Iroquois (Iro/Irx) homeobox genes encode transcription factors with fundamental roles in animal development. Despite their link to various congenital conditions in humans, our understanding of Iro/Irx gene expression, function, and regulation remains incomplete. Here, we conducted a systematic expression analysis of all six mouse Irx genes in the embryonic spinal cord. We found five Irx genes (Irx1, Irx2, Irx3, Irx5, and Irx6) to be confined mostly to ventral spinal domains, offering new molecular markers for specific groups of post-mitotic motor neurons (MNs). Further, we engineered Irx2, Irx5, and Irx6 mouse mutants and uncovered essential but distinct roles for Irx2 and Irx6 in MN development. Last, we found that the highly conserved regulators of MN development across species, the HOX proteins, directly control Irx gene expression both in mouse and C. elegans MNs, critically expanding the repertoire of HOX target genes in the developing nervous system. Altogether, our study provides important insights into Iro/Irx expression and function in the developing spinal cord, and uncovers an ancient gene regulatory relationship between HOX and Iro/Irx genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Catela
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stavroula Assimacopoulos
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yihan Chen
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Konstantinos Tsioras
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Weidong Feng
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paschalis Kratsios
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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3
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Wang Z, Cai W, Song W. CHIT1-positive microglia act as culprits for spinal motor neuron aging. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024; 67:847-848. [PMID: 38273188 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2529-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Wang
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Institute of Aging, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Wantong Cai
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Institute of Aging, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Weihong Song
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Institute of Aging, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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4
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Thiry L, Sirois J, Durcan TM, Stifani S. Generation of human iPSC-derived phrenic-like motor neurons to model respiratory motor neuron degeneration in ALS. Commun Biol 2024; 7:238. [PMID: 38418587 PMCID: PMC10901792 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05925-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The fatal motor neuron (MN) disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by progressive MN degeneration. Phrenic MNs (phMNs) controlling the activity of the diaphragm are prone to degeneration in ALS, leading to death by respiratory failure. Understanding of the mechanisms of phMN degeneration in ALS is limited, mainly because human experimental models to study phMNs are lacking. Here we describe a method enabling the derivation of phrenic-like MNs from human iPSCs (hiPSC-phMNs) within 30 days. This protocol uses an optimized combination of small molecules followed by cell-sorting based on a cell-surface protein enriched in hiPSC-phMNs, and is highly reproducible using several hiPSC lines. We show further that hiPSC-phMNs harbouring ALS-associated amplification of the C9orf72 gene progressively lose their electrophysiological activity and undergo increased death compared to isogenic controls. These studies establish a previously unavailable protocol to generate human phMNs offering a disease-relevant system to study mechanisms of respiratory MN dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Thiry
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
- Early Drug Discovery Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Julien Sirois
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
- Early Drug Discovery Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Thomas M Durcan
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
- Early Drug Discovery Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Stefano Stifani
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada.
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5
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Destain H, Prahlad M, Kratsios P. Maintenance of neuronal identity in C. elegans and beyond: Lessons from transcription and chromatin factors. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 154:35-47. [PMID: 37438210 PMCID: PMC10592372 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Neurons are remarkably long-lived, non-dividing cells that must maintain their functional features (e.g., electrical properties, chemical signaling) for extended periods of time - decades in humans. How neurons accomplish this incredible feat is poorly understood. Here, we review recent advances, primarily in the nematode C. elegans, that have enhanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that enable post-mitotic neurons to maintain their functionality across different life stages. We begin with "terminal selectors" - transcription factors necessary for the establishment and maintenance of neuronal identity. We highlight new findings on five terminal selectors (CHE-1 [Glass], UNC-3 [Collier/Ebf1-4], LIN-39 [Scr/Dfd/Hox4-5], UNC-86 [Acj6/Brn3a-c], AST-1 [Etv1/ER81]) from different transcription factor families (ZNF, COE, HOX, POU, ETS). We compare the functions of these factors in specific neuron types of C. elegans with the actions of their orthologs in other invertebrate (D. melanogaster) and vertebrate (M. musculus) systems, highlighting remarkable functional conservation. Finally, we reflect on recent findings implicating chromatin-modifying proteins, such as histone methyltransferases and Polycomb proteins, in the control of neuronal terminal identity. Altogether, these new studies on transcription factors and chromatin modifiers not only shed light on the fundamental problem of neuronal identity maintenance, but also outline mechanistic principles of gene regulation that may operate in other long-lived, post-mitotic cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honorine Destain
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Committee on Development, Regeneration and Stem Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Manasa Prahlad
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Committee on Genetics, Genomics, and Systems Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paschalis Kratsios
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Committee on Development, Regeneration and Stem Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Committee on Genetics, Genomics, and Systems Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, IL, USA.
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6
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Ritesh KC, de Boer RL, Lin M, Jeannotte L, Philippidou P. Multimodal Hox5 activity generates motor neuron diversity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.08.579338. [PMID: 38370781 PMCID: PMC10871347 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.08.579338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Motor neurons (MNs) are the final output of circuits driving fundamental behaviors, such as respiration and locomotion. Hox proteins are essential in generating the MN diversity required for accomplishing these functions, but the transcriptional mechanisms that enable Hox paralogs to assign distinct MN subtype identities despite their promiscuous DNA binding motif are not well understood. Here we show that Hoxa5 controls chromatin accessibility in all mouse spinal cervical MN subtypes and engages TALE co-factors to directly bind and regulate subtype-specific genes. We identify a paralog-specific interaction of Hoxa5 with the phrenic MN-specific transcription factor Scip and show that heterologous expression of Hoxa5 and Scip is sufficient to suppress limb-innervating MN identity. We also demonstrate that phrenic MN identity is stable after Hoxa5 downregulation and identify Klf proteins as potential regulators of phrenic MN maintenance. Our data identify multiple modes of Hoxa5 action that converge to induce and maintain MN identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- K C Ritesh
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Raquel López de Boer
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Minshan Lin
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lucie Jeannotte
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry & Pathology, Université Laval, Centre Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Oncology), Québec, Canada
| | - Polyxeni Philippidou
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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7
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Miller A, Dasen JS. Establishing and maintaining Hox profiles during spinal cord development. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 152-153:44-57. [PMID: 37029058 PMCID: PMC10524138 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
The chromosomally-arrayed Hox gene family plays central roles in embryonic patterning and the specification of cell identities throughout the animal kingdom. In vertebrates, the relatively large number of Hox genes and pervasive expression throughout the body has hindered understanding of their biological roles during differentiation. Studies on the subtype diversification of spinal motor neurons (MNs) have provided a tractable system to explore the function of Hox genes during differentiation, and have provided an entry point to explore how neuronal fate determinants contribute to motor circuit assembly. Recent work, using both in vitro and in vivo models of MN subtype differentiation, have revealed how patterning morphogens and regulation of chromatin structure determine cell-type specific programs of gene expression. These studies have not only shed light on basic mechanisms of rostrocaudal patterning in vertebrates, but also have illuminated mechanistic principles of gene regulation that likely operate in the development and maintenance of terminal fates in other systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Miller
- NYU Neuroscience Institute and Developmental Genetics Programs, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Jeremy S Dasen
- NYU Neuroscience Institute and Developmental Genetics Programs, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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8
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Zhang M, An H, Gu Z, Zhang YC, Wan T, Jiang HR, Zhang FS, Jiang BG, Han N, Wen YQ, Zhang PX. Multifunctional wet-adhesive chitosan/acrylic conduit for sutureless repair of peripheral nerve injuries. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126793. [PMID: 37709238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is high worldwide, and a poor prognosis is common. Surgical closure and repair of the affected area are crucial to ensure the effective treatment of peripheral nerve injuries. Despite being the standard treatment approach, reliance on sutures to seal the severed nerve ends introduces several limitations and restrictions. This technique is intricate and time-consuming, and the application of threading and punctate sutures may lead to tissue damage and heightened tension concentrations, thus increasing the risk of fixation failure and local inflammation. This study aimed to develop easily implantable chitosan-based peripheral nerve repair conduits that combine acrylic acid and cleavable N-hydroxysuccinimide to reduce nerve damage during repair. In ex vivo tissue adhesion tests, the conduit achieved maximal interfacial toughness of 705 J m-2 ± 30 J m-2, allowing continuous bridging of the severed nerve ends. Adhesive repair significantly reduces local inflammation caused by conventional sutures, and the positive charge of chitosan disrupts the bacterial cell wall and reduces implant-related infections. This promises to open new avenues for sutureless nerve repair and reliable medical implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Heng An
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Daxing Research Institute, School of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Zhen Gu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Daxing Research Institute, School of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Yi-Chong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Teng Wan
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Hao-Ran Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Feng-Shi Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Bao-Guo Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Na Han
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Yong-Qiang Wen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Daxing Research Institute, School of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Pei-Xun Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, National Center for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
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9
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Sun S, Li J, Wang S, Li J, Ren J, Bao Z, Sun L, Ma X, Zheng F, Ma S, Sun L, Wang M, Yu Y, Ma M, Wang Q, Chen Z, Ma H, Wang X, Wu Z, Zhang H, Yan K, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Zhang S, Lei J, Teng ZQ, Liu CM, Bai G, Wang YJ, Li J, Wang X, Zhao G, Jiang T, Belmonte JCI, Qu J, Zhang W, Liu GH. CHIT1-positive microglia drive motor neuron ageing in the primate spinal cord. Nature 2023; 624:611-620. [PMID: 37907096 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06783-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is a critical factor in spinal-cord-associated disorders1, yet the ageing-specific mechanisms underlying this relationship remain poorly understood. Here, to address this knowledge gap, we combined single-nucleus RNA-sequencing analysis with behavioural and neurophysiological analysis in non-human primates (NHPs). We identified motor neuron senescence and neuroinflammation with microglial hyperactivation as intertwined hallmarks of spinal cord ageing. As an underlying mechanism, we identified a neurotoxic microglial state demarcated by elevated expression of CHIT1 (a secreted mammalian chitinase) specific to the aged spinal cords in NHP and human biopsies. In the aged spinal cord, CHIT1-positive microglia preferentially localize around motor neurons, and they have the ability to trigger senescence, partly by activating SMAD signalling. We further validated the driving role of secreted CHIT1 on MN senescence using multimodal experiments both in vivo, using the NHP spinal cord as a model, and in vitro, using a sophisticated system modelling the human motor-neuron-microenvironment interplay. Moreover, we demonstrated that ascorbic acid, a geroprotective compound, counteracted the pro-senescent effect of CHIT1 and mitigated motor neuron senescence in aged monkeys. Our findings provide the single-cell resolution cellular and molecular landscape of the aged primate spinal cord and identify a new biomarker and intervention target for spinal cord degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaming Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences and China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Si Wang
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Aging Translational Medicine Center, International Center for Aging and Cancer, Beijing Municipal Geriatric Medical Research Center, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
- The Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences and China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences and China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoshi Bao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- The Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas, Beijing, China
| | - Le Sun
- Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xibo Ma
- MAIS, State Key Laboratory of Multimodal Artificial Intelligence Systems, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Medicine and Biomedical Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fangshuo Zheng
- The Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuai Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Sun
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
- The MOH Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China
| | - Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Miyang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaoran Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences and China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyuan Chen
- MAIS, State Key Laboratory of Multimodal Artificial Intelligence Systems, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - He Ma
- MAIS, State Key Laboratory of Multimodal Artificial Intelligence Systems, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Medicine and Biomedical Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xuebao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zeming Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kaowen Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanhan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yixin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jinghui Lei
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Aging Translational Medicine Center, International Center for Aging and Cancer, Beijing Municipal Geriatric Medical Research Center, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao-Qian Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chang-Mei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ge Bai
- The MOE Frontier Research Center of Brain & Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Jiang Wang
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurology, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Li
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China
- The MOH Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqun Wang
- Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoguang Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Clinical Research Center for Epilepsy Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Municipal Geriatric Medical Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- The Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas, Beijing, China
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jing Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China.
| | - Weiqi Zhang
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences and China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China.
| | - Guang-Hui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Aging Translational Medicine Center, International Center for Aging and Cancer, Beijing Municipal Geriatric Medical Research Center, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Aging Biomarker Consortium, Beijing, China.
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10
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Li MH, Kuetemeyer JM, Yallowitz AR, Wellik DM. Characterization of a novel Hoxa5eGFP mouse line. Dev Dyn 2023; 252:536-546. [PMID: 36577717 PMCID: PMC10066829 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hox genes encode transcription factors that are important for establishing the body plan. Hoxa5 is a member of the mammalian Hox5 paralogous group that regulates the patterning and morphology of the cervical-thoracic region of the axial skeleton. Hoxa5 also plays crucial functions in lung morphogenesis. RESULTS We generated a Hoxa5eGFP reporter mouse line using CRISPR technology, allowing real-time visualization of Hoxa5 expression. Hoxa5eGFP recapitulates reported embryonic Hoxa5 mRNA expression patterns. Specifically, Hoxa5eGFP can be visualized in the developing mouse neural tube, somites, lung, diaphragm, foregut, and midgut, among other organs. In the stomach, posteriorly biased Hoxa5eGFP expression correlates with a drastic morphological reduction of the corpus in Hox5 paralogous mutants. Expression of Hoxa5eGFP in the lung continues in all lung fibroblast populations through postnatal and adult stages. CONCLUSIONS We identified cell types that express Hoxa5 in postnatal and adult mouse lungs, including various fibroblasts and vascular endothelial cells. This reporter line will be a powerful tool for studies of the function of Hoxa5 during mouse development, homeostasis, and disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Hang Li
- Genetics Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Julia M. Kuetemeyer
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Alisha R. Yallowitz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Deneen M. Wellik
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
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11
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Vagnozzi AN, Moore MT, López de Boer R, Agarwal A, Zampieri N, Landmesser LT, Philippidou P. Catenin signaling controls phrenic motor neuron development and function during a narrow temporal window. Front Neural Circuits 2023; 17:1121049. [PMID: 36895798 PMCID: PMC9988953 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2023.1121049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Phrenic Motor Column (PMC) neurons are a specialized subset of motor neurons (MNs) that provide the only motor innervation to the diaphragm muscle and are therefore essential for survival. Despite their critical role, the mechanisms that control phrenic MN development and function are not well understood. Here, we show that catenin-mediated cadherin adhesive function is required for multiple aspects of phrenic MN development. Deletion of β- and γ-catenin from MN progenitors results in perinatal lethality and a severe reduction in phrenic MN bursting activity. In the absence of catenin signaling, phrenic MN topography is eroded, MN clustering is lost and phrenic axons and dendrites fail to grow appropriately. Despite the essential requirement for catenins in early phrenic MN development, they appear to be dispensable for phrenic MN maintenance, as catenin deletion from postmitotic MNs does not impact phrenic MN topography or function. Our data reveal a fundamental role for catenins in PMC development and suggest that distinct mechanisms are likely to control PMC maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia N. Vagnozzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Matthew T. Moore
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Raquel López de Boer
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Aambar Agarwal
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Niccolò Zampieri
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Lynn T. Landmesser
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Polyxeni Philippidou
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
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12
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Catenin signaling controls phrenic motor neuron development and function during a narrow temporal window. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.18.524559. [PMID: 36711833 PMCID: PMC9882252 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.18.524559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Phrenic Motor Column (PMC) neurons are a specialized subset of motor neurons (MNs) that provide the only motor innervation to the diaphragm muscle and are therefore essential for survival. Despite their critical role, the mechanisms that control phrenic MN development and function are not well understood. Here, we show that catenin-mediated cadherin adhesive function is required for multiple aspects of phrenic MN development. Deletion of β - and γ -catenin from MN progenitors results in perinatal lethality and a severe reduction in phrenic MN bursting activity. In the absence of catenin signaling, phrenic MN topography is eroded, MN clustering is lost and phrenic axons and dendrites fail to grow appropriately. Despite the essential requirement for catenins in early phrenic MN development, they appear to be dispensable for phrenic MN maintenance, as catenin deletion from postmitotic MNs does not impact phrenic MN topography or function. Our data reveal a fundamental role for catenins in PMC development and suggest that distinct mechanisms are likely to control PMC maintenance.
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13
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Homma S, Shimada T, Wada I, Kumaki K, Sato N, Yaginuma H. A three-component model of the spinal nerve ramification: Bringing together the human gross anatomy and modern Embryology. Front Neurosci 2023; 16:1009542. [PMID: 36726852 PMCID: PMC9884977 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1009542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to its long history, the study of human gross anatomy has not adequately incorporated modern embryological findings; consequently, the current understanding has often been incompatible with recent discoveries from molecular studies. Notably, the traditional epaxial and hypaxial muscle distinction, and their corresponding innervation by the dorsal and ventral rami of the spinal nerve, do not correspond to the primaxial and abaxial muscle distinction, defined by the mesodermal lineages of target tissues. To resolve the disagreement between adult anatomy and embryology, we here propose a novel hypothetical model of spinal nerve ramification. Our model is based on the previously unknown developmental process of the intercostal nerves. Observations of these nerves in the mouse embryos revealed that the intercostal nerves initially had superficial and deep ventral branches, which is contrary to the general perception of a single ventral branch. The initial dual innervation pattern later changes into an adult-like single branch pattern following the retraction of the superficial branch. The modified intercostal nerves consist of the canonical ventral branches and novel branches that run on the muscular surface of the thorax, which sprout from the lateral cutaneous branches. We formulated the embryonic branching pattern into the hypothetical ramification model of the human spinal nerve so that the branching pattern is compatible with the developmental context of the target muscles. In our model, every spinal nerve consists of three components: (1) segmental branches that innervate the primaxial muscles, including the dorsal rami, and short branches and long superficial anterior branches from the ventral rami; (2) plexus-forming intramural branches, the serial homolog of the canonical intercostal nerves, which innervate the abaxial portion of the body wall; and (3) plexus-forming extramural branches, the series of novel branches located outside of the body wall, which innervate the girdle and limb muscles. The selective elaboration or deletion of each component successfully explains the reasoning for the standard morphology and variability of the spinal nerve. Therefore, our model brings a novel understanding of spinal nerve development and valuable information for basic and clinical sciences regarding the diverse branching patterns of the spinal nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsaku Homma
- Department of Neuroanatomy and Embryology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Takako Shimada
- Department of Neuroanatomy and Embryology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Ikuo Wada
- Department of Cell Science, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Katsuji Kumaki
- Division of Gross Anatomy and Morphogenesis, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Noboru Sato
- Division of Gross Anatomy and Morphogenesis, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yaginuma
- Department of Neuroanatomy and Embryology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
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14
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Brent AE, Buchholtz EA, Mansfield JH. Evolutionary assembly and disassembly of the mammalian sternum. Curr Biol 2023; 33:197-205.e2. [PMID: 36563692 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.11.055] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Evolutionary transitions are frequently associated with novel anatomical structures,1 but the origins of the structures themselves are often poorly known. We use developmental, genetic, and paleontological data to demonstrate that the therian sternum was assembled from pre-existing elements. Imaging of the perinatal mouse reveals two paired sternal elements, both composed primarily of cells with lateral plate mesoderm origin. Location, articulations, and development identify them as homologs of the interclavicle and the sternal bands of synapsid outgroups. The interclavicle, not previously recognized in therians,2 articulates with the clavicle and differs from the sternal bands in both embryonic HOX expression and pattern of skeletal maturation. The sternal bands articulate with the ribs in two styles, most clearly differentiated by their association with sternebrae. Evolutionary trait mapping indicates that the interclavicle and sternal bands were independent elements throughout most of synapsid history. The differentiation of rib articulation styles and the subdivision of the sternal bands into sternebrae were key innovations likely associated with transitions in locomotor and respiratory mechanics.3,4 Fusion of the interclavicle and the anterior sternal bands to form a presternum anterior to the first sternebra was a historically recent innovation unique to therians. Subsequent disassembly of the radically reduced sternum of mysticete cetaceans was element specific, reflecting the constraints that conserved developmental programs exert on composite structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava E Brent
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, 3009 Broadway, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Emily A Buchholtz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wellesley College, 106 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02481, USA.
| | - Jennifer H Mansfield
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, 3009 Broadway, New York, NY 10027, USA
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15
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Baguma-Nibasheka M, Kablar B. Mechanics of Lung Development. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2023; 236:131-150. [PMID: 37955774 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-38215-4_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
We summarize how skeletal muscle and lung developmental biology fields have been bridged to benefit from mouse genetic engineering technologies and to explore the role of fetal breathing-like movements (FBMs) in lung development, by using skeletal muscle-specific mutant mice. It has been known for a long time that FBMs are essential for the lung to develop properly. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms transducing the mechanical forces of muscular activity into specific genetic programs that propel lung morphogenesis (development of the shape, form and size of the lung, its airways, and gas exchange surface) as well as its differentiation (acquisition of specialized cell structural and functional features from their progenitor cells) are only starting to be revealed. This chapter is a brief synopsis of the cumulative findings from that ongoing quest. An update on and the rationale for our recent International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium (IMPC) search is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Baguma-Nibasheka
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Boris Kablar
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Anatomy and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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16
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Chen H, Yu Z, Niu Y, Wang L, Xu K, Liu J. Research progress of PBX1 in developmental and regenerative medicine. Int J Med Sci 2023; 20:225-231. [PMID: 36794159 PMCID: PMC9925990 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.80262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-B-cell leukemia transcription factor 1 (PBX1) proteins are a subfamily of evolutionarily conserved atypical homeodomain transcription factors belonging to the superfamily of triple amino acid loop extension homeodomain proteins. PBX family members play crucial roles in the regulation of various pathophysiological processes. This article reviews the research progress on PBX1 in terms of structure, developmental function, and regenerative medicine. The potential mechanisms of development and research targets in regenerative medicine are also summarized. It also suggests a possible link between PBX1 in the two domains, which is expected to open up a new field for future exploration of cell homeostasis, as well as the regulation of endogenous danger signals. This would provide a new target for the study of diseases in various systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Avenue Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhuyuan Yu
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Avenue Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ye Niu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Litian Wang
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Avenue Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Kan Xu
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Avenue Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jinyu Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
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17
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Abstract
Hox genes encode evolutionarily conserved transcription factors that are essential for the proper development of bilaterian organisms. Hox genes are unique because they are spatially and temporally regulated during development in a manner that is dictated by their tightly linked genomic organization. Although their genetic function during embryonic development has been interrogated, less is known about how these transcription factors regulate downstream genes to direct morphogenetic events. Moreover, the continued expression and function of Hox genes at postnatal and adult stages highlights crucial roles for these genes throughout the life of an organism. Here, we provide an overview of Hox genes, highlighting their evolutionary history, their unique genomic organization and how this impacts the regulation of their expression, what is known about their protein structure, and their deployment in development and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A. Hubert
- Program in Genetics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Deneen M. Wellik
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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18
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Vagnozzi AN, Moore MT, Lin M, Brozost EM, KC R, Agarwal A, Schwarz LA, Duan X, Zampieri N, Landmesser LT, Philippidou P. Coordinated cadherin functions sculpt respiratory motor circuit connectivity. eLife 2022; 11:e82116. [PMID: 36583530 PMCID: PMC9910829 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathing, and the motor circuits that control it, is essential for life. At the core of respiratory circuits are Dbx1-derived interneurons, which generate the rhythm and pattern of breathing, and phrenic motor neurons (MNs), which provide the final motor output that drives diaphragm muscle contractions during inspiration. Despite their critical function, the principles that dictate how respiratory circuits assemble are unknown. Here, we show that coordinated activity of a type I cadherin (N-cadherin) and type II cadherins (Cadherin-6, -9, and -10) is required in both MNs and Dbx1-derived neurons to generate robust respiratory motor output. Both MN- and Dbx1-specific cadherin inactivation in mice during a critical developmental window results in perinatal lethality due to respiratory failure and a striking reduction in phrenic MN bursting activity. This combinatorial cadherin code is required to establish phrenic MN cell body and dendritic topography; surprisingly, however, cell body position appears to be dispensable for the targeting of phrenic MNs by descending respiratory inputs. Our findings demonstrate that type I and II cadherins function cooperatively throughout the respiratory circuit to generate a robust breathing output and reveal novel strategies that drive the assembly of motor circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia N Vagnozzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Matthew T Moore
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Minshan Lin
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Elyse M Brozost
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Ritesh KC
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Aambar Agarwal
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Lindsay A Schwarz
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisUnited States
| | - Xin Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Niccolò Zampieri
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
| | - Lynn T Landmesser
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Polyxeni Philippidou
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
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19
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Sefton EM, Gallardo M, Tobin CE, Collins BC, Colasanto MP, Merrell AJ, Kardon G. Fibroblast-derived Hgf controls recruitment and expansion of muscle during morphogenesis of the mammalian diaphragm. eLife 2022; 11:e74592. [PMID: 36154712 PMCID: PMC9514848 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The diaphragm is a domed muscle between the thorax and abdomen essential for breathing in mammals. Diaphragm development requires the coordinated development of muscle, connective tissue, and nerve, which are derived from different embryonic sources. Defects in diaphragm development cause the common and often lethal birth defect, congenital diaphragmatic hernias (CDH). HGF/MET signaling is required for diaphragm muscularization, but the source of HGF and the specific functions of this pathway in muscle progenitors and effects on phrenic nerve have not been explicitly tested. Using conditional mutagenesis in mice and pharmacological inhibition of MET, we demonstrate that the pleuroperitoneal folds (PPFs), transient embryonic structures that give rise to the connective tissue in the diaphragm, are the source of HGF critical for diaphragm muscularization. PPF-derived HGF is directly required for recruitment of MET+ muscle progenitors to the diaphragm and indirectly (via its effect on muscle development) required for phrenic nerve primary branching. In addition, HGF is continuously required for maintenance and motility of the pool of progenitors to enable full muscularization. Localization of HGF at the diaphragm's leading edges directs dorsal and ventral expansion of muscle and regulates its overall size and shape. Surprisingly, large muscleless regions in HGF and Met mutants do not lead to hernias. While these regions are likely more susceptible to CDH, muscle loss is not sufficient to cause CDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Sefton
- Department of Human Genetics, University of UtahSalt Lake CityUnited States
| | - Mirialys Gallardo
- Department of Human Genetics, University of UtahSalt Lake CityUnited States
| | - Claire E Tobin
- Department of Human Genetics, University of UtahSalt Lake CityUnited States
| | - Brittany C Collins
- Department of Human Genetics, University of UtahSalt Lake CityUnited States
| | - Mary P Colasanto
- Department of Human Genetics, University of UtahSalt Lake CityUnited States
| | | | - Gabrielle Kardon
- Department of Human Genetics, University of UtahSalt Lake CityUnited States
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20
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The Cell Autonomous and Non-Cell Autonomous Aspects of Neuronal Vulnerability and Resilience in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11081191. [PMID: 36009818 PMCID: PMC9405388 DOI: 10.3390/biology11081191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease characterized by a progressive paralysis due to the loss of particular neurons in our nervous system called motor neurons, that exert voluntary control of all our skeletal muscles. It is not entirely understood why motor neurons are particularly vulnerable in ALS, neither is it completely clear why certain groups of motor neurons, including those that regulate eye movement, are rather resilient to this disease. However, both vulnerability and resilience to ALS likely reflect cell intrinsic properties of different motor neuron subpopulations as well as non-cell autonomous events regulated by surrounding cell types. In this review we dissect the particular properties of different motor neuron types and their responses to disease that may underlie their respective vulnerabilities and resilience. Disease progression in ALS involves multiple cell types that are closely connected to motor neurons and we here also discuss their contributions to the differential vulnerability of motor neurons. Abstract Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is defined by the loss of upper motor neurons (MNs) that project from the cerebral cortex to the brain stem and spinal cord and of lower MNs in the brain stem and spinal cord which innervate skeletal muscles, leading to spasticity, muscle atrophy, and paralysis. ALS involves several disease stages, and multiple cell types show dysfunction and play important roles during distinct phases of disease initiation and progression, subsequently leading to selective MN loss. Why MNs are particularly vulnerable in this lethal disease is still not entirely clear. Neither is it fully understood why certain MNs are more resilient to degeneration in ALS than others. Brain stem MNs of cranial nerves III, IV, and VI, which innervate our eye muscles, are highly resistant and persist until the end-stage of the disease, enabling paralyzed patients to communicate through ocular tracking devices. MNs of the Onuf’s nucleus in the sacral spinal cord, that innervate sphincter muscles and control urogenital functions, are also spared throughout the disease. There is also a differential vulnerability among MNs that are intermingled throughout the spinal cord, that directly relate to their physiological properties. Here, fast-twitch fatigable (FF) MNs, which innervate type IIb muscle fibers, are affected early, before onset of clinical symptoms, while slow-twitch (S) MNs, that innervate type I muscle fibers, remain longer throughout the disease progression. The resilience of particular MN subpopulations has been attributed to intrinsic determinants and multiple studies have demonstrated their unique gene regulation and protein content in health and in response to disease. Identified factors within resilient MNs have been utilized to protect more vulnerable cells. Selective vulnerability may also, in part, be driven by non-cell autonomous processes and the unique surroundings and constantly changing environment close to particular MN groups. In this article, we review in detail the cell intrinsic properties of resilient and vulnerable MN groups, as well as multiple additional cell types involved in disease initiation and progression and explain how these may contribute to the selective MN resilience and vulnerability in ALS.
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21
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Pechriggl E, Blumer M, Tubbs RS, Olewnik Ł, Konschake M, Fortélny R, Stofferin H, Honis HR, Quinones S, Maranillo E, Sanudo J. Embryology of the Abdominal Wall and Associated Malformations—A Review. Front Surg 2022; 9:891896. [PMID: 35874129 PMCID: PMC9300894 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.891896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, the incidence of congenital defects of the intraembryonic celom and its associated structures has increased over recent decades. Surgical treatment of abdominal and diaphragmatic malformations resulting in congenital hernia requires deep knowledge of ventral body closure and the separation of the primary body cavities during embryogenesis. The correct development of both structures requires the coordinated and fine-tuned synergy of different anlagen, including a set of molecules governing those processes. They have mainly been investigated in a range of vertebrate species (e.g., mouse, birds, and fish), but studies of embryogenesis in humans are rather rare because samples are seldom available. Therefore, we have to deal with a large body of conflicting data concerning the formation of the abdominal wall and the etiology of diaphragmatic defects. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge and focuses on the histological and molecular events leading to the establishment of the abdominal and thoracic cavities in several vertebrate species. In chronological order, we start with the onset of gastrulation, continue with the establishment of the three-dimensional body shape, and end with the partition of body cavities. We also discuss well-known human etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Pechriggl
- Institute of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michael Blumer
- Institute of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - R. Shane Tubbs
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Tulane Center for Clinical Neurosciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George’s University, St. George’s, Grenada, West Indies
- Department of Structural & Cellular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery and Ochsner Neuroscience Institute, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, United States
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Łukasz Olewnik
- Department of Anatomical Dissection and Donation, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Marko Konschake
- Institute of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
- Correspondence: Marko Konschake
| | - René Fortélny
- Department of General, Visceral, and Oncological Surgery, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hannes Stofferin
- Institute of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hanne Rose Honis
- Institute of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sara Quinones
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Maranillo
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Sanudo
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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22
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Mitchel K, Bergmann JM, Brent AE, Finkelstein TM, Schindler KA, Holzman MA, Jeannotte L, Mansfield JH. Hoxa5 Activity Across the Lateral Somitic Frontier Regulates Development of the Mouse Sternum. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:806545. [PMID: 35557949 PMCID: PMC9086245 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.806545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The skeletal system derives from multiple embryonic sources whose derivatives must develop in coordination to produce an integrated whole. In particular, interactions across the lateral somitic frontier, where derivatives of the somites and lateral plate mesoderm come into contact, are important for proper development. Many questions remain about genetic control of this coordination, and embryological information is incomplete for some structures that incorporate the frontier, including the sternum. Hox genes act in both tissues as regulators of skeletal pattern. Here, we used conditional deletion to characterize the tissue-specific contributions of Hoxa5 to skeletal patterning. We found that most aspects of the Hoxa5 skeletal phenotype are attributable to its activity in one or the other tissue, indicating largely additive roles. However, multiple roles are identified at the junction of the T1 ribs and the anterior portion of the sternum, or presternum. The embryology of the presternum has not been well described in mouse. We present a model for presternum development, and show that it arises from multiple, paired LPM-derived primordia. We show evidence that HOXA5 expression marks the embryonic precursor of a recently identified lateral presternum structure that is variably present in therians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira Mitchel
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jenna M. Bergmann
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ava E. Brent
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Ava E. Brent, ; Jennifer H. Mansfield,
| | - Tova M. Finkelstein
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kyra A. Schindler
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Miriam A. Holzman
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lucie Jeannotte
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, CRCHU de Québec‐Université, Laval (Oncology Axis), Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Jennifer H. Mansfield
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Ava E. Brent, ; Jennifer H. Mansfield,
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23
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LaForce GR, Farr JS, Liu J, Akesson C, Gumus E, Pinkard O, Miranda HC, Johnson K, Sweet TJ, Ji P, Lin A, Coller J, Philippidou P, Wagner EJ, Schaffer AE. Suppression of premature transcription termination leads to reduced mRNA isoform diversity and neurodegeneration. Neuron 2022; 110:1340-1357.e7. [PMID: 35139363 PMCID: PMC9035109 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tight regulation of mRNA isoform expression is essential for neuronal development, maintenance, and function; however, the repertoire of proteins that govern isoform composition and abundance remains incomplete. Here, we show that the RNA kinase CLP1 regulates mRNA isoform expression through suppression of proximal cleavage and polyadenylation. We found that human stem-cell-derived motor neurons without CLP1 or with the disease-associated CLP1 p.R140H variant had distinct patterns of RNA-polymerase-II-associated cleavage and polyadenylation complex proteins that correlated with polyadenylation site usage. These changes resulted in imbalanced mRNA isoform expression of long genes important for neuronal function that were recapitulated in vivo. Strikingly, we observed the same pattern of reduced mRNA isoform diversity in 3' end sequencing data from brain tissues of patients with neurodegenerative disease. Together, our results identify a previously uncharacterized role for CLP1 in mRNA 3' end formation and reveal an mRNA misprocessing signature in neurodegeneration that may suggest a common mechanism of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneva R LaForce
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jordan S Farr
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jingyi Liu
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Cydni Akesson
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Evren Gumus
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla 48000, Turkey; Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Harran, Sanliurfa 63000, Turkey
| | - Otis Pinkard
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Helen C Miranda
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Katherine Johnson
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Thomas J Sweet
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ping Ji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Ai Lin
- Department of Etiology and Carcinogenesis, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, WC67+HC Dongcheng, Beijing, China
| | - Jeff Coller
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Polyxeni Philippidou
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Eric J Wagner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Ashleigh E Schaffer
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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24
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Catela C, Chen Y, Weng Y, Wen K, Kratsios P. Control of spinal motor neuron terminal differentiation through sustained Hoxc8 gene activity. eLife 2022; 11:70766. [PMID: 35315772 PMCID: PMC8940177 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal motor neurons (MNs) constitute cellular substrates for several movement disorders. Although their early development has received much attention, how spinal MNs become and remain terminally differentiated is poorly understood. Here, we determined the transcriptome of mouse MNs located at the brachial domain of the spinal cord at embryonic and postnatal stages. We identified novel transcription factors (TFs) and terminal differentiation genes (e.g. ion channels, neurotransmitter receptors, adhesion molecules) with continuous expression in MNs. Interestingly, genes encoding homeodomain TFs (e.g. HOX, LIM), previously implicated in early MN development, continue to be expressed postnatally, suggesting later functions. To test this idea, we inactivated Hoxc8 at successive stages of mouse MN development and observed motor deficits. Our in vivo findings suggest that Hoxc8 is not only required to establish, but also maintain expression of several MN terminal differentiation markers. Data from in vitro generated MNs indicate Hoxc8 acts directly and is sufficient to induce expression of terminal differentiation genes. Our findings dovetail recent observations in Caenorhabditis elegans MNs, pointing toward an evolutionarily conserved role for Hox in neuronal terminal differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Catela
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Yihan Chen
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Yifei Weng
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Kailong Wen
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Paschalis Kratsios
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
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25
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Velten J, Gao X, Van Nierop y Sanchez P, Domsch K, Agarwal R, Bognar L, Paulsen M, Velten L, Lohmann I. Single‐cell RNA sequencing of motoneurons identifies regulators of synaptic wiring in
Drosophila
embryos. Mol Syst Biol 2022; 18:e10255. [PMID: 35225419 PMCID: PMC8883443 DOI: 10.15252/msb.202110255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The correct wiring of neuronal circuits is one of the most complex processes in development, since axons form highly specific connections out of a vast number of possibilities. Circuit structure is genetically determined in vertebrates and invertebrates, but the mechanisms guiding each axon to precisely innervate a unique pre‐specified target cell are poorly understood. We investigated Drosophila embryonic motoneurons using single‐cell genomics, imaging, and genetics. We show that a cell‐specific combination of homeodomain transcription factors and downstream immunoglobulin domain proteins is expressed in individual cells and plays an important role in determining cell‐specific connections between differentiated motoneurons and target muscles. We provide genetic evidence for a functional role of five homeodomain transcription factors and four immunoglobulins in the neuromuscular wiring. Knockdown and ectopic expression of these homeodomain transcription factors induces cell‐specific synaptic wiring defects that are partly phenocopied by genetic modulations of their immunoglobulin targets. Taken together, our data suggest that homeodomain transcription factor and immunoglobulin molecule expression could be directly linked and function as a crucial determinant of neuronal circuit structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Velten
- Department of Developmental Biology Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) Barcelona Spain
- Flow Cytometry Core Facility European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Heidelberg Germany
| | - Xuefan Gao
- Department of Developmental Biology Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | | | - Katrin Domsch
- Department of Developmental Biology Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
- Developmental Biology Erlangen‐Nürnberg University Erlangen Germany
| | - Rashi Agarwal
- Department of Developmental Biology Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | - Lena Bognar
- Department of Developmental Biology Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
| | - Malte Paulsen
- Flow Cytometry Core Facility European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Heidelberg Germany
| | - Lars Velten
- The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) Barcelona Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) Barcelona Spain
| | - Ingrid Lohmann
- Department of Developmental Biology Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
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26
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Feng W, Li Y, Kratsios P. Emerging Roles for Hox Proteins in the Last Steps of Neuronal Development in Worms, Flies, and Mice. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:801791. [PMID: 35185450 PMCID: PMC8855150 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.801791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A remarkable diversity of cell types characterizes every animal nervous system. Previous studies provided important insights into how neurons commit to a particular fate, migrate to the right place and form precise axodendritic patterns. However, the mechanisms controlling later steps of neuronal development remain poorly understood. Hox proteins represent a conserved family of homeodomain transcription factors with well-established roles in anterior-posterior (A-P) patterning and the early steps of nervous system development, including progenitor cell specification, neuronal migration, cell survival, axon guidance and dendrite morphogenesis. This review highlights recent studies in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster and mice that suggest new roles for Hox proteins in processes occurring during later steps of neuronal development, such as synapse formation and acquisition of neuronal terminal identity features (e.g., expression of ion channels, neurotransmitter receptors, and neuropeptides). Moreover, we focus on exciting findings suggesting Hox proteins are required to maintain synaptic structures and neuronal terminal identity during post-embryonic life. Altogether, these studies, in three model systems, support the hypothesis that certain Hox proteins are continuously required, from early development throughout post-embryonic life, to build and maintain a functional nervous system, significantly expanding their functional repertoire beyond the control of early A-P patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidong Feng
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, IL, United States
- Committee on Development, Regeneration, and Stem Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Yinan Li
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, IL, United States
- Committee on Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Paschalis Kratsios
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Paschalis Kratsios,
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27
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He ZC, Liu Q, Yang KD, Chen C, Zhang XN, Wang WY, Zeng H, Wang B, Liu YQ, Luo M, Li L, Niu Q, Lu HM, Luo T, Yao XH, Guo HT, Ji JL, Cao MF, Shi Y, Ping YF, Bian XW. HOXA5 is amplified in glioblastoma stem cells and promotes tumor progression by transcriptionally activating PTPRZ1. Cancer Lett 2022; 533:215605. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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28
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Sawai A, Pfennig S, Bulajić M, Miller A, Khodadadi-Jamayran A, Mazzoni EO, Dasen JS. PRC1 sustains the integrity of neural fate in the absence of PRC2 function. eLife 2022; 11:e72769. [PMID: 34994686 PMCID: PMC8765755 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycomb repressive complexes (PRCs) 1 and 2 maintain stable cellular memories of early fate decisions by establishing heritable patterns of gene repression. PRCs repress transcription through histone modifications and chromatin compaction, but their roles in neuronal subtype diversification are poorly defined. We found that PRC1 is essential for the specification of segmentally restricted spinal motor neuron (MN) subtypes, while PRC2 activity is dispensable to maintain MN positional identities during terminal differentiation. Mutation of the core PRC1 component Ring1 in mice leads to increased chromatin accessibility and ectopic expression of a broad variety of fates determinants, including Hox transcription factors, while neuronal class-specific features are maintained. Loss of MN subtype identities in Ring1 mutants is due to the suppression of Hox-dependent specification programs by derepressed Hox13 paralogs (Hoxa13, Hoxb13, Hoxc13, Hoxd13). These results indicate that PRC1 can function in the absence of de novo PRC2-dependent histone methylation to maintain chromatin topology and postmitotic neuronal fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayana Sawai
- Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of MedicineNew YorkUnited States
| | - Sarah Pfennig
- Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of MedicineNew YorkUnited States
| | - Milica Bulajić
- Department of Biology, New York UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Alexander Miller
- Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of MedicineNew YorkUnited States
| | - Alireza Khodadadi-Jamayran
- Applied Bioinformatics Laboratories, Office of Science and Research, NYU School of MedcineNew YorkUnited States
| | | | - Jeremy S Dasen
- Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of MedicineNew YorkUnited States
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29
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Dasen JS. Establishing the Molecular and Functional Diversity of Spinal Motoneurons. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 28:3-44. [PMID: 36066819 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-07167-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Spinal motoneurons are a remarkably diverse class of neurons responsible for facilitating a broad range of motor behaviors and autonomic functions. Studies of motoneuron differentiation have provided fundamental insights into the developmental mechanisms of neuronal diversification, and have illuminated principles of neural fate specification that operate throughout the central nervous system. Because of their relative anatomical simplicity and accessibility, motoneurons have provided a tractable model system to address multiple facets of neural development, including early patterning, neuronal migration, axon guidance, and synaptic specificity. Beyond their roles in providing direct communication between central circuits and muscle, recent studies have revealed that motoneuron subtype-specific programs also play important roles in determining the central connectivity and function of motor circuits. Cross-species comparative analyses have provided novel insights into how evolutionary changes in subtype specification programs may have contributed to adaptive changes in locomotor behaviors. This chapter focusses on the gene regulatory networks governing spinal motoneuron specification, and how studies of spinal motoneurons have informed our understanding of the basic mechanisms of neuronal specification and spinal circuit assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy S Dasen
- NYU Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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30
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Poliacikova G, Maurel-Zaffran C, Graba Y, Saurin AJ. Hox Proteins in the Regulation of Muscle Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:731996. [PMID: 34733846 PMCID: PMC8558437 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.731996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hox genes encode evolutionary conserved transcription factors that specify the anterior-posterior axis in all bilaterians. Being well known for their role in patterning ectoderm-derivatives, such as CNS and spinal cord, Hox protein function is also crucial in mesodermal patterning. While well described in the case of the vertebrate skeleton, much less is known about Hox functions in the development of different muscle types. In contrast to vertebrates however, studies in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, have provided precious insights into the requirement of Hox at multiple stages of the myogenic process. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of Hox protein function in Drosophila and vertebrate muscle development, with a focus on the molecular mechanisms underlying target gene regulation in this process. Emphasizing a tight ectoderm/mesoderm cross talk for proper locomotion, we discuss shared principles between CNS and muscle lineage specification and the emerging role of Hox in neuromuscular circuit establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yacine Graba
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, IBDM, UMR 7288, Marseille, France
| | - Andrew J Saurin
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, IBDM, UMR 7288, Marseille, France
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31
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Hernández R, Jiménez-Luna C, Ortiz R, Setién F, López M, Perazzoli G, Esteller M, Berdasco M, Prados J, Melguizo C. Impact of the Epigenetically Regulated Hoxa-5 Gene in Neural Differentiation from Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10080802. [PMID: 34440035 PMCID: PMC8389620 DOI: 10.3390/biology10080802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASCs) may be used in some nervous system pathologies, although obtaining an adequate degree of neuronal differentiation is an important barrier to their applicability. This requires a deep understanding of the expression and epigenetic changes of the most important genes involved in their differentiation. We used hASCs from human lipoaspirates to induce neuronal-like cells through three protocols (Neu1, 2, and 3), determined the degree of neuronal differentiation using specific biomarkers in culture cells and neurospheres, and analyzed epigenetic changes of genes involved in this differentiation. Furthermore, we selected the Hoxa-5 gene to determine its potential to improve neuronal differentiation. Our results showed that an excellent hASC neuronal differentiation process using Neu1 which efficiently modulated NES, CHAT, SNAP25, or SCN9A neuronal marker expression. In addition, epigenetic studies showed relevant changes in Hoxa-5, GRM4, FGFR1, RTEL1, METRN, and PAX9 genes. Functional studies of the Hoxa-5 gene using CRISPR/dCas9 and lentiviral systems showed that its overexpression induced hASCs neuronal differentiation that was accelerated with the exposure to Neu1. These results suggest that Hoxa-5 is an essential gene in hASCs neuronal differentiation and therefore, a potential candidate for the development of cell therapy strategies in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Hernández
- Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (R.H.); (C.J.-L.); (R.O.); (G.P.); (C.M.)
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Jiménez-Luna
- Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (R.H.); (C.J.-L.); (R.O.); (G.P.); (C.M.)
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Raúl Ortiz
- Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (R.H.); (C.J.-L.); (R.O.); (G.P.); (C.M.)
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Fernando Setién
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (F.S.); (M.L.); (M.E.); (M.B.)
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Cancer and Leukemia Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBCL), Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel López
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (F.S.); (M.L.); (M.E.); (M.B.)
- Epigenetic Therapies Group, Experimental and Clinical Hematology Program (PHEC), Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gloria Perazzoli
- Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (R.H.); (C.J.-L.); (R.O.); (G.P.); (C.M.)
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Manel Esteller
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (F.S.); (M.L.); (M.E.); (M.B.)
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Cancer and Leukemia Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBCL), Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Berdasco
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (F.S.); (M.L.); (M.E.); (M.B.)
- Epigenetic Therapies Group, Experimental and Clinical Hematology Program (PHEC), Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose Prados
- Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (R.H.); (C.J.-L.); (R.O.); (G.P.); (C.M.)
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Consolación Melguizo
- Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; (R.H.); (C.J.-L.); (R.O.); (G.P.); (C.M.)
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
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Cannata G, Caporilli C, Grassi F, Perrone S, Esposito S. Management of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH): Role of Molecular Genetics. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126353. [PMID: 34198563 PMCID: PMC8231903 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a relatively common major life-threatening birth defect that results in significant mortality and morbidity depending primarily on lung hypoplasia, persistent pulmonary hypertension, and cardiac dysfunction. Despite its clinical relevance, CDH multifactorial etiology is still not completely understood. We reviewed current knowledge on normal diaphragm development and summarized genetic mutations and related pathways as well as cellular mechanisms involved in CDH. Our literature analysis showed that the discovery of harmful de novo variants in the fetus could constitute an important tool for the medical team during pregnancy, counselling, and childbirth. A better insight into the mechanisms regulating diaphragm development and genetic causes leading to CDH appeared essential to the development of new therapeutic strategies and evidence-based genetic counselling to parents. Integrated sequencing, development, and bioinformatics strategies could direct future functional studies on CDH; could be applied to cohorts and consortia for CDH and other birth defects; and could pave the way for potential therapies by providing molecular targets for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cannata
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (G.C.); (C.C.); (F.G.)
| | - Chiara Caporilli
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (G.C.); (C.C.); (F.G.)
| | - Federica Grassi
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (G.C.); (C.C.); (F.G.)
| | - Serafina Perrone
- Neonatology Unit, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (G.C.); (C.C.); (F.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0521-7047
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James OG, Selvaraj BT, Magnani D, Burr K, Connick P, Barton SK, Vasistha NA, Hampton DW, Story D, Smigiel R, Ploski R, Brophy PJ, Ffrench-Constant C, Lyons DA, Chandran S. iPSC-derived myelinoids to study myelin biology of humans. Dev Cell 2021; 56:1346-1358.e6. [PMID: 33945785 PMCID: PMC8098746 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Myelination is essential for central nervous system (CNS) formation, health, and function. Emerging evidence of oligodendrocyte heterogeneity in health and disease and divergent CNS gene expression profiles between mice and humans supports the development of experimentally tractable human myelination systems. Here, we developed human iPSC-derived myelinating organoids ("myelinoids") and quantitative tools to study myelination from oligodendrogenesis through to compact myelin formation and myelinated axon organization. Using patient-derived cells, we modeled a monogenetic disease of myelinated axons (Nfasc155 deficiency), recapitulating impaired paranodal axo-glial junction formation. We also validated the use of myelinoids for pharmacological assessment of myelination-both at the level of individual oligodendrocytes and globally across whole myelinoids-and demonstrated reduced myelination in response to suppressed synaptic vesicle release. Our study provides a platform to investigate human myelin development, disease, and adaptive myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen G James
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Bhuvaneish T Selvaraj
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Dario Magnani
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Karen Burr
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Peter Connick
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Samantha K Barton
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Navneet A Vasistha
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Copenhagen N 2200, Denmark
| | - David W Hampton
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - David Story
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Robert Smigiel
- Department of Pediatrics and Rare Disorders, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław 51-618, Poland
| | - Rafal Ploski
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw 02-106, Poland
| | - Peter J Brophy
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | | | - David A Lyons
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Siddharthan Chandran
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; Centre for Brain Development and Repair, inStem, Bangalore 560065, India.
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Gonçalves CS, Le Boiteux E, Arnaud P, Costa BM. HOX gene cluster (de)regulation in brain: from neurodevelopment to malignant glial tumours. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:3797-3821. [PMID: 32239260 PMCID: PMC11105007 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
HOX genes encode a family of evolutionarily conserved homeodomain transcription factors that are crucial both during development and adult life. In humans, 39 HOX genes are arranged in four clusters (HOXA, B, C, and D) in chromosomes 7, 17, 12, and 2, respectively. During embryonic development, particular epigenetic states accompany their expression along the anterior-posterior body axis. This tightly regulated temporal-spatial expression pattern reflects their relative chromosomal localization, and is critical for normal embryonic brain development when HOX genes are mainly expressed in the hindbrain and mostly absent in the forebrain region. Epigenetic marks, mostly polycomb-associated, are dynamically regulated at HOX loci and regulatory regions to ensure the finely tuned HOX activation and repression, highlighting a crucial epigenetic plasticity necessary for homeostatic development. HOX genes are essentially absent in healthy adult brain, whereas they are detected in malignant brain tumours, namely gliomas, where HOX genes display critical roles by regulating several hallmarks of cancer. Here, we review the major mechanisms involved in HOX genes (de)regulation in the brain, from embryonic to adult stages, in physiological and oncologic conditions. We focus particularly on the emerging causes of HOX gene deregulation in glioma, as well as on their functional and clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline S Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Elisa Le Boiteux
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM-iGReD, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Philippe Arnaud
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM-iGReD, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Bruno M Costa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.
- ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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Nagashima H, Koga D, Kusumi S, Mukaigasa K, Yaginuma H, Ushiki T, Sato N. Novel concept for the epaxial/hypaxial boundary based on neuronal development. J Anat 2020; 237:427-438. [PMID: 32786168 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13219] [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: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Trunk muscles in vertebrates are classified as either dorsal epaxial or ventral hypaxial muscles. Epaxial and hypaxial muscles are defined as muscles innervated by the dorsal and ventral rami of spinal nerves, respectively. Each cluster of spinal motor neurons passing through dorsal rami innervates epaxial muscles, whereas clusters traveling on the ventral rami innervate hypaxial muscles. Herein, we show that some motor neurons exhibiting molecular profiles for epaxial muscles follow a path in the ventral rami. Dorsal deep-shoulder muscles and some body wall muscles are defined as hypaxial due to innervation via the ventral rami, but a part of these ventral rami has the molecular profile of motor neurons that innervate epaxial muscles. Thus, the epaxial and hypaxial boundary cannot be determined simply by the ramification pattern of spinal nerves. We propose that, although muscle innervation occurs via the ventral rami, dorsal deep-shoulder muscles and some body wall muscles represent an intermediate group that lies between epaxial and hypaxial muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Nagashima
- Division of Gross Anatomy and Morphogenesis, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Daisuke Koga
- Division of Microscopic Anatomy and Bio-imaging, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kusumi
- Division of Microscopic Anatomy and Bio-imaging, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Katsuki Mukaigasa
- Department of Neuroanatomy and Embryology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yaginuma
- Department of Neuroanatomy and Embryology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Ushiki
- Division of Microscopic Anatomy and Bio-imaging, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Noboru Sato
- Division of Gross Anatomy and Morphogenesis, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
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Zhang T, Guan P, Liu W, Zhao G, Fang Y, Fu H, Gui JF, Li G, Liu JX. Copper stress induces zebrafish central neural system myelin defects via WNT/NOTCH-hoxb5b signaling and pou3f1/fam168a/fam168b DNA methylation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194612. [PMID: 32745624 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Unbalanced copper (Cu) homeostasis is associated with neurological development defects and diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Here, central neural system (CNS) myelin defects and the down-regulated expression of WNT/NOTCH signaling and its down-stream mediator hoxb5b were observed in Cu2+ stressed zebrafish larvae. The loss/knockdown-of-function of hoxb5b phenocopied the myelin and axon defects observed in Cu2+ stressed embryos. Meanwhile, the activation of WNT/NOTCH signaling and ectopic expression of hoxb5b could rescue Cu induced myelin defects. Additionally, fam168b, similar to pou3f1/2, exhibited significant promoter hypermethylation and reduced expression in Cu2+ stressed embryos. The hypermethylated locus in fam168b promoter acted pivotally in its transcription, and the loss/knockdown of fam168b/pou3f1 also induced myelin defects. This study also demonstrated that fam168b/pou3f1 and hoxb5b axis acted in a seesaw manner during fish embryogenesis: Cu induced the down-regulated expression of the WNT&NOTCH-hoxb5b axis through the function of copper transporter cox17, coupled with the promoter methylation of genes fam168b/pou3f1, and its subsequent down-regulated expression through the function of another transporter atp7b, making joint contributions to myelin defects in embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - PengPeng Guan
- College of Informatics, Agricultural Bioinformatics Key Laboratory of Hubei Province, Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Agricultural Big Data, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - WenYe Liu
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Guang Zhao
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - YaPing Fang
- College of Informatics, Agricultural Bioinformatics Key Laboratory of Hubei Province, Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Agricultural Big Data, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Hui Fu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jian-Fang Gui
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - GuoLiang Li
- College of Informatics, Agricultural Bioinformatics Key Laboratory of Hubei Province, Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Agricultural Big Data, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Jing-Xia Liu
- College of Fisheries, Key Laboratory of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
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Ma HM, Cui N, Zheng PS. HOXA5 inhibits the proliferation and neoplasia of cervical cancer cells via downregulating the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and transactivating TP53. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:420. [PMID: 32499530 PMCID: PMC7272418 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2629-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
HOXA5 is considered a regulator involved in embryonic development and cellular differentiation and a tumor suppressor. Nevertheless, its biological role in cervical carcinoma is still unclear. In the present study, immunohistochemistry showed that HOXA5 expression gradually decreased as the degree of cervical lesions deepened. Ectopic expression of HOXA5 restrained cell proliferation, decreased cell viability, and inhibited tumor formation in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the expression of HOXA5 could arrest cell cycle from G0/G1 to S phase. RNA-seq revealed that p21 and cyclinD1 were involved in this process. Moreover, the gene set enrichment analysis and the TOP/FOP reporter assay both suggested that HOXA5 could restrain the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Further study using dual-luciferase reporter assay and quantitative chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that HOXA5 could directly bind to the TAAT motif within the promoter of TP53 by its HD domain and transactivate TP53, which can upregulate p21. Altogether, our data suggest that HOXA5 inhibits the proliferation and neoplasia via repression activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and transactivating TP53 in cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Mei Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.,Section of Cancer Stem Cell Research, Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Cui
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.,Section of Cancer Stem Cell Research, Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng-Sheng Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China. .,Section of Cancer Stem Cell Research, Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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38
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Thiry L, Hamel R, Pluchino S, Durcan T, Stifani S. Characterization of Human iPSC-derived Spinal Motor Neurons by Single-cell RNA Sequencing. Neuroscience 2020; 450:57-70. [PMID: 32380268 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer the opportunity to generate specific cell types from healthy and diseased individuals, allowing the study of mechanisms of early human development, modelling a variety of human diseases, and facilitating the development of new therapeutics. Human iPSC-based applications are often limited by the variability among iPSC lines originating from a single donor, as well as the heterogeneity among specific cell types that can be derived from iPSCs. The ability to deeply phenotype different iPSC-derived cell types is therefore of primary importance to the successful and informative application of this technology. Here we describe a combination of motor neuron (MN) derivation and single-cell RNA sequencing approaches to generate and characterize specific MN subtypes obtained from human iPSCs. Our studies provide evidence for rapid and robust generation of MN progenitor cells that can give rise to a heterogenous population of MNs. Approximately 58% of human iPSC-derived MNs display molecular characteristics of lateral motor column MNs, with a number of molecularly distinct subpopulations present within this MN group. Roughly 19% of induced MNs resemble hypaxial motor column MNs, while ∼6% of induced MNs have features of median motor column MNs. The present study has the potential to improve our understanding of iPSC-derived MN subtype function and dysfunction, possibly leading to improved iPSC-based applications for the study of human MN biology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Thiry
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Regan Hamel
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Clifford Allbutt Building - Cambridge Biosciences Campus and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Hills Road, CB2 0HA Cambridge, UK
| | - Stefano Pluchino
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Clifford Allbutt Building - Cambridge Biosciences Campus and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Hills Road, CB2 0HA Cambridge, UK
| | - Thomas Durcan
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 2B4, Canada; Early Drug Discovery Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Canada
| | - Stefano Stifani
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801, rue University, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 2B4, Canada.
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Vagnozzi AN, Garg K, Dewitz C, Moore MT, Cregg JM, Jeannotte L, Zampieri N, Landmesser LT, Philippidou P. Phrenic-specific transcriptional programs shape respiratory motor output. eLife 2020; 9:52859. [PMID: 31944180 PMCID: PMC7007220 DOI: 10.7554/elife.52859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The precise pattern of motor neuron (MN) activation is essential for the execution of motor actions; however, the molecular mechanisms that give rise to specific patterns of MN activity are largely unknown. Phrenic MNs integrate multiple inputs to mediate inspiratory activity during breathing and are constrained to fire in a pattern that drives efficient diaphragm contraction. We show that Hox5 transcription factors shape phrenic MN output by connecting phrenic MNs to inhibitory premotor neurons. Hox5 genes establish phrenic MN organization and dendritic topography through the regulation of phrenic-specific cell adhesion programs. In the absence of Hox5 genes, phrenic MN firing becomes asynchronous and erratic due to loss of phrenic MN inhibition. Strikingly, mice lacking Hox5 genes in MNs exhibit abnormal respiratory behavior throughout their lifetime. Our findings support a model where MN-intrinsic transcriptional programs shape the pattern of motor output by orchestrating distinct aspects of MN connectivity. In mammals, air is moved in and out of the lungs by a sheet of muscle called the diaphragm. When this muscle contracts air gets drawn into the lungs and as the muscle relaxes this pushes air back out. Movement of the diaphragm is controlled by a group of nerve cells called motor neurons which are part of the phrenic motor column (or PMC for short) that sits within the spinal cord. The neurons within this column work together with nerve cells in the brain to coordinate the speed and duration of each breath. For the lungs to develop normally, the neurons that control how the diaphragm contracts need to start working before birth. During development, motor neurons in the PMC cluster together and connect with other nerve cells involved in breathing. But, despite their essential role, it is not yet clear how neurons in the PMC develop and join up with other nerve cells. Now, Vagnozzi et al. show that a set of genes which make the transcription factor Hox5 control the position and organization of motor neurons in the PMC. Transcription factors work as genetic switches, turning sets of genes on and off. Vagnozzi et al. showed that removing the Hox5 transcription factors from motor neurons in the PMC changed their activity and disordered their connections with other breathing-related nerve cells. Hox5 transcription factors regulate the production of proteins called cadherins which join together neighboring cells. Therefore, motor neurons lacking Hox5 were unable to make enough cadherins to securely stick together and connect with other nerve cells. Further experiments showed that removing the genes that code for Hox5 caused mice to have breathing difficulties in the first two weeks after birth. Although half of these mutant mice were eventually able to breathe normally, the other half died within a week. These breathing defects are reminiscent of the symptoms observed in sudden infant death syndrome (also known as SIDS). Abnormalities in breathing occur in many other diseases, including sleep apnea, muscular dystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). A better understanding of how the connections between nerve cells involved in breathing are formed, and the role of Hox5 and cadherins, could lead to improved treatment options for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia N Vagnozzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, United States
| | - Kiran Garg
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, United States
| | - Carola Dewitz
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthew T Moore
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, United States
| | - Jared M Cregg
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, United States
| | - Lucie Jeannotte
- Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval (Oncology), Québec, Canada
| | - Niccolò Zampieri
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Lynn T Landmesser
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, United States
| | - Polyxeni Philippidou
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, United States
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Sagner A, Briscoe J. Establishing neuronal diversity in the spinal cord: a time and a place. Development 2019; 146:146/22/dev182154. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.182154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The vertebrate spinal cord comprises multiple functionally distinct neuronal cell types arranged in characteristic positions. During development, these different types of neurons differentiate from transcriptionally distinct neural progenitors that are arrayed in discrete domains along the dorsal-ventral and anterior-posterior axes of the embryonic spinal cord. This organization arises in response to morphogen gradients acting upstream of a gene regulatory network, the architecture of which determines the spatial and temporal pattern of gene expression. In recent years, substantial progress has been made in deciphering the regulatory network that underlies the specification of distinct progenitor and neuronal cell identities. In this Review, we outline how distinct neuronal cell identities are established in response to spatial and temporal patterning systems, and outline novel experimental approaches to study the emergence and function of neuronal diversity in the spinal cord.
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Chaimowicz C, Ruffault PL, Chéret C, Woehler A, Zampieri N, Fortin G, Garratt AN, Birchmeier C. Teashirt 1 (Tshz1) is essential for the development, survival and function of hypoglossal and phrenic motor neurons in mouse. Development 2019; 146:dev.174045. [PMID: 31427287 PMCID: PMC6765129 DOI: 10.1242/dev.174045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Feeding and breathing are essential motor functions and rely on the activity of hypoglossal and phrenic motor neurons that innervate the tongue and diaphragm, respectively. Little is known about the genetic programs that control the development of these neuronal subtypes. The transcription factor Tshz1 is strongly and persistently expressed in developing hypoglossal and phrenic motor neurons. We used conditional mutation of Tshz1 in the progenitor zone of motor neurons (Tshz1MN Δ) to show that Tshz1 is essential for survival and function of hypoglossal and phrenic motor neurons. Hypoglossal and phrenic motor neurons are born in correct numbers, but many die between embryonic day 13.5 and 14.5 in Tshz1MN Δ mutant mice. In addition, innervation and electrophysiological properties of phrenic and hypoglossal motor neurons are altered. Severe feeding and breathing problems accompany this developmental deficit. Although motor neuron survival can be rescued by elimination of the pro-apoptotic factor Bax, innervation, feeding and breathing defects persist in Bax-/-; Tshz1MN Δ mutants. We conclude that Tshz1 is an essential transcription factor for the development and physiological function of phrenic and hypoglossal motor neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Chaimowicz
- Developmental Biology/Signal Transduction, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Pierre-Louis Ruffault
- Developmental Biology/Signal Transduction, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Cyril Chéret
- Developmental Biology/Signal Transduction, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrew Woehler
- Systems Biology Imaging, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Niccolò Zampieri
- Development and Function of Neural Circuits, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gilles Fortin
- UMR9197, CNRS/Université Paris-Sud, Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience, 1 Avenue de la Terrasse, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Alistair N Garratt
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Virchowweg 6, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Carmen Birchmeier
- Developmental Biology/Signal Transduction, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Society, 13125 Berlin, Germany
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42
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Catela C, Kratsios P. Transcriptional mechanisms of motor neuron development in vertebrates and invertebrates. Dev Biol 2019; 475:193-204. [PMID: 31479648 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Across phylogeny, motor neurons (MNs) represent a single but often remarkably diverse neuronal class composed of a multitude of subtypes required for vital behaviors, such as eating and locomotion. Over the past decades, seminal studies in multiple model organisms have advanced our molecular understanding of the early steps of MN development, such as progenitor specification and acquisition of MN subtype identity, by revealing key roles for several evolutionarily conserved transcription factors. However, very little is known about the molecular strategies that allow distinct MN subtypes to maintain their identity- and function-defining features during the late steps of development and postnatal life. Here, we provide an overview of invertebrate and vertebrate studies on transcription factor-based strategies that control early and late steps of MN development, aiming to highlight evolutionarily conserved gene regulatory principles necessary for establishment and maintenance of neuronal identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Catela
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA; The Grossman Institute for Neuroscience, Quantitative Biology and Human Behavior, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paschalis Kratsios
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA; The Grossman Institute for Neuroscience, Quantitative Biology and Human Behavior, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Chasman D, Iyer N, Fotuhi Siahpirani A, Estevez Silva M, Lippmann E, McIntosh B, Probasco MD, Jiang P, Stewart R, Thomson JA, Ashton RS, Roy S. Inferring Regulatory Programs Governing Region Specificity of Neuroepithelial Stem Cells during Early Hindbrain and Spinal Cord Development. Cell Syst 2019; 9:167-186.e12. [PMID: 31302154 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2019.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neuroepithelial stem cells (NSC) from different anatomical regions of the embryonic neural tube's rostrocaudal axis can differentiate into diverse central nervous system tissues, but the transcriptional regulatory networks governing these processes are incompletely understood. Here, we measure region-specific NSC gene expression along the rostrocaudal axis in a human pluripotent stem cell model of early central nervous system development over a 72-h time course, spanning the hindbrain to cervical spinal cord. We introduce Escarole, a probabilistic clustering algorithm for non-stationary time series, and combine it with prior-based regulatory network inference to identify genes that are regulated dynamically and predict their upstream regulators. We identify known regulators of patterning and neural development, including the HOX genes, and predict a direct regulatory connection between the transcription factor POU3F2 and target gene STMN2. We demonstrate that POU3F2 is required for expression of STMN2, suggesting that this regulatory connection is important for region specificity of NSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Chasman
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Nisha Iyer
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Alireza Fotuhi Siahpirani
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Computer Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Maria Estevez Silva
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Ethan Lippmann
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Brian McIntosh
- Regenerative Biology Theme, Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Mitchell D Probasco
- Regenerative Biology Theme, Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Peng Jiang
- Regenerative Biology Theme, Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Ron Stewart
- Regenerative Biology Theme, Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - James A Thomson
- Regenerative Biology Theme, Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Randolph S Ashton
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Sushmita Roy
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, USA.
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44
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Domsch K, Carnesecchi J, Disela V, Friedrich J, Trost N, Ermakova O, Polychronidou M, Lohmann I. The Hox transcription factor Ubx stabilizes lineage commitment by suppressing cellular plasticity in Drosophila. eLife 2019; 8:42675. [PMID: 31050646 PMCID: PMC6513553 DOI: 10.7554/elife.42675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
During development cells become restricted in their differentiation potential by repressing alternative cell fates, and the Polycomb complex plays a crucial role in this process. However, how alternative fate genes are lineage-specifically silenced is unclear. We studied Ultrabithorax (Ubx), a multi-lineage transcription factor of the Hox class, in two tissue lineages using sorted nuclei and interfered with Ubx in mesodermal cells. We find that depletion of Ubx leads to the de-repression of genes normally expressed in other lineages. Ubx silences expression of alternative fate genes by retaining the Polycomb Group protein Pleiohomeotic at Ubx targeted genomic regions, thereby stabilizing repressive chromatin marks in a lineage-dependent manner. Our study demonstrates that Ubx stabilizes lineage choice by suppressing the multipotency encoded in the genome via its interaction with Pho. This mechanism may explain why the Hox code is maintained throughout the lifecycle, since it could set a block to transdifferentiation in adult cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Domsch
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Vanessa Disela
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jana Friedrich
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nils Trost
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Olga Ermakova
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Ingrid Lohmann
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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45
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Ogura T, Sakaguchi H, Miyamoto S, Takahashi J. Three-dimensional induction of dorsal, intermediate and ventral spinal cord tissues from human pluripotent stem cells. Development 2018; 145:145/16/dev162214. [PMID: 30061169 PMCID: PMC6124545 DOI: 10.1242/dev.162214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The spinal cord contains more than 20 distinct subclasses of neurons that form well-organized neural circuits capable of sensing the environment and generating motor behavior. Although recent studies have described the efficient in vitro generation of spinal motor neurons, the induction of the spinal cord as a whole tissue has not been achieved. In the present study, we demonstrate three-dimensional (3D) induction of dorsal spinal cord-like tissues from human pluripotent stem cells. Our 3D spinal cord induction (3-DiSC) condition recapitulates patterning of the developing dorsal spinal cord and enables the generation of four types of dorsal interneuron marker-positive cell populations. By activating Shh signaling, intermediate and ventral spinal cord-like tissues are successfully induced. After dissociation of these tissues, somatosensory neurons and spinal motor neurons are detected and express neurotransmitters in an in vivo manner. Our approach provides a useful experimental tool for the analysis of human spinal cord development and will contribute to research on the formation and organization of the spinal cord, and its application to regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takenori Ogura
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 606-8507 Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 606-8507 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideya Sakaguchi
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 606-8507 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 606-8507 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jun Takahashi
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 606-8507 Kyoto, Japan .,Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 606-8507 Kyoto, Japan
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46
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D'Elia KP, Dasen JS. Development, functional organization, and evolution of vertebrate axial motor circuits. Neural Dev 2018; 13:10. [PMID: 29855378 PMCID: PMC5984435 DOI: 10.1186/s13064-018-0108-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal control of muscles associated with the central body axis is an ancient and essential function of the nervous systems of most animal species. Throughout the course of vertebrate evolution, motor circuits dedicated to control of axial muscle have undergone significant changes in their roles within the motor system. In most fish species, axial circuits are critical for coordinating muscle activation sequences essential for locomotion and play important roles in postural correction. In tetrapods, axial circuits have evolved unique functions essential to terrestrial life, including maintaining spinal alignment and breathing. Despite the diverse roles of axial neural circuits in motor behaviors, the genetic programs underlying their assembly are poorly understood. In this review, we describe recent studies that have shed light on the development of axial motor circuits and compare and contrast the strategies used to wire these neural networks in aquatic and terrestrial vertebrate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen P D'Elia
- Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Jeremy S Dasen
- Neuroscience Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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47
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Butler AM, Owens DA, Wang L, King ML. A novel role for sox7 in Xenopus early primordial germ cell development: mining the PGC transcriptome. Development 2018; 145:dev.155978. [PMID: 29158442 DOI: 10.1242/dev.155978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Xenopus primordial germ cells (PGCs) are determined by the presence of maternally derived germ plasm. Germ plasm components both protect PGCs from somatic differentiation and begin a unique gene expression program. Segregation of the germline from the endodermal lineage occurs during gastrulation, and PGCs subsequently initiate zygotic transcription. However, the gene network(s) that operate to both preserve and promote germline differentiation are poorly understood. Here, we utilized RNA-sequencing analysis to comprehensively interrogate PGC and neighboring endoderm cell mRNAs after lineage segregation. We identified 1865 transcripts enriched in PGCs compared with endoderm cells. We next compared the PGC-enriched transcripts with previously identified maternal, vegetally enriched transcripts and found that ∼38% of maternal transcripts were enriched in PGCs, including sox7 PGC-directed sox7 knockdown and overexpression studies revealed an early requirement for sox7 in germ plasm localization, zygotic transcription and PGC number. We identified pou5f3.3 as the most highly expressed and enriched POU5F1 homolog in PGCs. We compared the Xenopus PGC transcriptome with human PGC transcripts and showed that 80% of genes are conserved, underscoring the potential usefulness of Xenopus for understanding human germline specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Butler
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1011 NW 15th St, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Dawn A Owens
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1011 NW 15th St, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Lingyu Wang
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA
| | - Mary Lou King
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1011 NW 15th St, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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48
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Hirasawa T, Kuratani S. Evolution of the muscular system in tetrapod limbs. ZOOLOGICAL LETTERS 2018; 4:27. [PMID: 30258652 PMCID: PMC6148784 DOI: 10.1186/s40851-018-0110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
While skeletal evolution has been extensively studied, the evolution of limb muscles and brachial plexus has received less attention. In this review, we focus on the tempo and mode of evolution of forelimb muscles in the vertebrate history, and on the developmental mechanisms that have affected the evolution of their morphology. Tetrapod limb muscles develop from diffuse migrating cells derived from dermomyotomes, and the limb-innervating nerves lose their segmental patterns to form the brachial plexus distally. Despite such seemingly disorganized developmental processes, limb muscle homology has been highly conserved in tetrapod evolution, with the apparent exception of the mammalian diaphragm. The limb mesenchyme of lateral plate mesoderm likely plays a pivotal role in the subdivision of the myogenic cell population into individual muscles through the formation of interstitial muscle connective tissues. Interactions with tendons and motoneuron axons are involved in the early and late phases of limb muscle morphogenesis, respectively. The mechanism underlying the recurrent generation of limb muscle homology likely resides in these developmental processes, which should be studied from an evolutionary perspective in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Hirasawa
- Laboratory for Evolutionary Morphology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), 2-2-3 Minatojima-minami, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047 Japan
| | - Shigeru Kuratani
- Laboratory for Evolutionary Morphology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), 2-2-3 Minatojima-minami, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047 Japan
- Evolutionary Morphology Laboratory, RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research (CPR), 2-2-3 Minatojima-minami, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047 Japan
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49
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Topoisomerase IIβ Selectively Regulates Motor Neuron Identity and Peripheral Connectivity through Hox/Pbx-Dependent Transcriptional Programs. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0404-17. [PMID: 29379870 PMCID: PMC5779120 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0404-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vital motor functions, such as respiration and locomotion, rely on the ability of spinal motor neurons (MNs) to acquire stereotypical positions in the ventral spinal cord and to project with high precision to their peripheral targets. These key properties of MNs emerge during development through transcriptional programs that dictate their subtype identity and connectivity; however, the molecular mechanisms that establish the transcriptional landscape necessary for MN specification are not fully understood. Here, we show that the enzyme topoisomerase IIβ (Top2β) controls MN migration and connectivity. Surprisingly, Top2β is not required for MN generation or survival but has a selective role in columnar specification. In the absence of Top2β, phrenic MN identity is eroded, while other motor columns are partially preserved but fail to cluster to their proper position. In Top2β-/- mice, peripheral connectivity is impaired as MNs exhibit a profound deficit in terminal branching. These defects likely result from the insufficient activation of Hox/Pbx-dependent transcriptional programs as Hox and Pbx genes are downregulated in the absence of Top2β. Top2β mutants recapitulate many aspects of Pbx mutant mice, such as MN disorganization and defects in medial motor column (MMC) specification. Our findings indicate that Top2β, a gene implicated in neurodevelopmental diseases such as autism spectrum disorders, plays a critical, cell-specific role in the assembly of motor circuits.
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50
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Lizen B, Moens C, Mouheiche J, Sacré T, Ahn MT, Jeannotte L, Salti A, Gofflot F. Conditional Loss of Hoxa5 Function Early after Birth Impacts on Expression of Genes with Synaptic Function. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:369. [PMID: 29187810 PMCID: PMC5695161 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hoxa5 is a member of the Hox gene family that plays critical roles in successive steps of the central nervous system formation during embryonic and fetal development. In the mouse, Hoxa5 was recently shown to be expressed in the medulla oblongata and the pons from fetal stages to adulthood. In these territories, Hoxa5 transcripts are enriched in many precerebellar neurons and several nuclei involved in autonomic functions, while the HOXA5 protein is detected mainly in glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons. However, whether HOXA5 is functionally required in these neurons after birth remains unknown. As a first approach to tackle this question, we aimed at determining the molecular programs downstream of the HOXA5 transcription factor in the context of the postnatal brainstem. A comparative transcriptomic analysis was performed in combination with gene expression localization, using a conditional postnatal Hoxa5 loss-of-function mouse model. After inactivation of Hoxa5 at postnatal days (P)1–P4, we established the transcriptome of the brainstem from P21 Hoxa5 conditional mutants using RNA-Seq analysis. One major finding was the downregulation of several genes associated with synaptic function in Hoxa5 mutant specimens including different actors involved in glutamatergic synapse, calcium signaling pathway, and GABAergic synapse. Data were confirmed and extended by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, and the expression of several HOXA5 candidate targets was shown to co-localize with Hoxa5 transcripts in precerebellar nuclei. Together, these new results revealed that HOXA5, through the regulation of key actors of the glutamatergic/GABAergic synapses and calcium signaling, might be involved in synaptogenesis, synaptic transmission, and synaptic plasticity of the cortico-ponto-cerebellar circuitry in the postnatal brainstem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Lizen
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Moens
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Jinane Mouheiche
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Thomas Sacré
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Marie-Thérèse Ahn
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Lucie Jeannotte
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Ahmad Salti
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Françoise Gofflot
- Institut des Sciences de la Vie, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
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