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Machado AS, Bragança M, Vieira-Coelho M. Epigenetic effects of cannabis: A systematic scoping review of behavioral and emotional symptoms associated with cannabis use and exocannabinoid exposure. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 263:111401. [PMID: 39137613 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent research suggests that epigenetic modifications may mediate the behavioral effects of cannabis, influencing exocannabinnoids' long term effects in cognitive function and its role in the emergence of psychotic symptoms. BASIC PROCEDURES In this systematic scoping review, we assessed the current evidence of epigenetic effects associated with the use of cannabis or exocannabinoid administration and their relationship with behavioral and emotional symptoms. We searched PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science, up to January 2022, using the terms "cannabis" and "epigenetics." The search yielded 178 articles, of which 43 underwent full article revision; 37 articles were included in the review. MAIN FINDINGS The gathered evidence included observational cross-sectional studies conducted on human subjects and experimental designs using animal models that conveyed disparity in administration dosage, methods of cannabis use assessment and targeted epigenetic mechanisms. Nine studies performed epigenome-wide analysis with identification of differentially methylated sites; most of these studies found a global hypomethylation, and enrichment in genes related to cellular survival and neurodevelopment. Other studies assessed methylation at specific genes and found that cannabis exposure was associated with reduced methylation at Cg05575921, DNMT1, DRD2, COMT, DLGAP2, Arg1, STAT3, MGMT, and PENK, while hypermethylation was found at DNMT3a/b, NCAM1, and AKT1. CONCLUSIONS The review found evidence of an exocannabinoid-induced epigenetic changes that modulate depressive-anxious, psychotic, and addictive behavioural phenotypes. Further studies will require dosage exposure/administration uniformization and a customized pool of genes to assess their suitability as biomarkers for psychiatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofia Machado
- Psychiatry Service of São João Local Health Unit, Porto, Portugal; Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health Department, Medicine Faculty of Porto University (FMUP), Porto, Portugal.
| | - Miguel Bragança
- Psychiatry Service of São João Local Health Unit, Porto, Portugal; Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health Department, Medicine Faculty of Porto University (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Vieira-Coelho
- Psychiatry Service of São João Local Health Unit, Porto, Portugal; Biomedicine Department, Medicine Faculty of Porto University (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
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2
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Zhou H, Gelernter J. Human genetics and epigenetics of alcohol use disorder. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172885. [PMID: 39145449 PMCID: PMC11324314 DOI: 10.1172/jci172885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a prominent contributor to global morbidity and mortality. Its complex etiology involves genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors. We review progress in understanding the genetics and epigenetics of AUD, summarizing the key findings. Advancements in technology over the decades have elevated research from early candidate gene studies to present-day genome-wide scans, unveiling numerous genetic and epigenetic risk factors for AUD. The latest GWAS on more than one million participants identified more than 100 genetic variants, and the largest epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) in blood and brain samples have revealed tissue-specific epigenetic changes. Downstream analyses revealed enriched pathways, genetic correlations with other traits, transcriptome-wide association in brain tissues, and drug-gene interactions for AUD. We also discuss limitations and future directions, including increasing the power of GWAS and EWAS studies as well as expanding the diversity of populations included in these analyses. Larger samples, novel technologies, and analytic approaches are essential; these include whole-genome sequencing, multiomics, single-cell sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, deep-learning prediction of variant function, and integrated methods for disease risk prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Data Science
- Center for Brain and Mind Health
| | - Joel Gelernter
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Genetics, and
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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3
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Heidari N, Hajikarim-Hamedani A, Heidari A, Ghane Y, Ashabi G, Zarrindast MR, Sadat-Shirazi MS. Alcohol: Epigenome alteration and inter/transgenerational effect. Alcohol 2024; 117:27-41. [PMID: 38508286 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2024.03.008] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
While DNA serves as the fundamental genetic blueprint for an organism, it is not a static entity. Gene expression, the process by which genetic information is utilized to create functional products like proteins, can be modulated by a diverse range of environmental factors. Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNAs, play a pivotal role in mediating the intricate interplay between the environment and gene expression. Intriguingly, alterations in the epigenome have the potential to be inherited across generations. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) poses significant health issues worldwide. Alcohol has the capability to induce changes in the epigenome, which can be inherited by offspring, thus impacting them even in the absence of direct alcohol exposure. This review delves into the impact of alcohol on the epigenome, examining how its effects vary based on factors such as the age of exposure (adolescence or adulthood), the duration of exposure (chronic or acute), and the specific sample collected (brain, blood, or sperm). The literature underscores that alcohol exposure can elicit diverse effects on the epigenome during different life stages. Furthermore, compelling evidence from human and animal studies demonstrates that alcohol induces alterations in epigenome content, affecting both the brain and blood. Notably, rodent studies suggest that these epigenetic changes can result in lasting phenotype alterations that extend across at least two generations. In conclusion, the comprehensive literature analysis supports the notion that alcohol exposure induces lasting epigenetic alterations, influencing the behavior and health of future generations. This knowledge emphasizes the significance of addressing the potential transgenerational effects of alcohol and highlights the importance of preventive measures to minimize the adverse impact on offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazila Heidari
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Amirhossein Heidari
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yekta Ghane
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghorbangol Ashabi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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4
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Cui J, Liu X, Shang Q, Sun S, Chen S, Dong J, Zhu Y, Liu L, Xia Y, Wang Y, Xiang L, Fan B, Zhan J, Zhou Y, Chen P, Zhao R, Liu X, Xing N, Wu D, Shi B, Zou Y. Deubiquitination of CDC6 by OTUD6A promotes tumour progression and chemoresistance. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:86. [PMID: 38685067 PMCID: PMC11057083 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01996-y] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CDC6 is an oncogenic protein whose expression level fluctuates during the cell cycle. Although several E3 ubiquitin ligases responsible for the ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis of CDC6 have been identified, the deubiquitination pathway for CDC6 has not been investigated. METHODS The proteome-wide deubiquitinase (DUB) screening was used to identify the potential regulator of CDC6. Immunofluorescence, protein half-life and deubiquitination assays were performed to determine the protein stability of CDC6. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were implemented to analyse the impacts of OUTD6A-CDC6 axis on tumour growth and chemosensitivity in vitro. N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine (BBN)-induced conditional Otud6a knockout (CKO) mouse model and tumour xenograft model were performed to analyse the role of OTUD6A-CDC6 axis in vivo. Tissue specimens were used to determine the association between OTUD6A and CDC6. RESULTS OTUD6A interacts with, depolyubiquitinates and stabilizes CDC6 by removing K6-, K33-, and K48-linked polyubiquitination. Moreover, OTUD6A promotes cell proliferation and decreases sensitivity to chemotherapy by upregulating CDC6. CKO mice are less prone to BCa tumorigenesis induced by BBN, and knockdown of OTUD6A inhibits tumour progression in vivo. Furthermore, OTUD6A protein level has a positive correlation with CDC6 protein level, and high protein levels of OTUD6A and CDC6 are associated with poor prognosis in patients with bladder cancer. CONCLUSIONS We reveal an important yet missing piece of novel DUB governing CDC6 stability. In addition, our findings propose a model for the OTUD6A-CDC6 axis that provides novel insights into cell cycle and chemosensitivity regulation, which may become a potential biomarker and promising drug target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Cui
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiaochen Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Department of Clinical laboratory, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Qinghong Shang
- Helmholtz International Lab, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266237, China
| | - Shuna Sun
- Department of Dermatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250011, China
| | - Shouzhen Chen
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Jianping Dong
- Department of Urology, Shouguang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 262750, China
| | - Yaofeng Zhu
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yangyang Xia
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Lu Xiang
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Bowen Fan
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Jiafeng Zhan
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yadi Zhou
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Pengxiang Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Renchang Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Xiaofei Liu
- Departement of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250011, China
| | - Nianzeng Xing
- Department of Urology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Dalei Wu
- Helmholtz International Lab, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266237, China.
| | - Benkang Shi
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital, Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Yongxin Zou
- The Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education and Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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5
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Özel F, Di Criscio M, Lupu DI, Sarkisyan D, Hlady RA, Robertson KD, Bakalkin G, Liu Y, Biernacka JM, Karpyak VM, Ekström TJ, Rüegg J. DNA methylation at DLGAP2 and risk for relapse in alcohol dependence during acamprosate treatment. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 256:111116. [PMID: 38364647 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use disorders are prevalent mental disorders with significant health implications. Epigenetic alterations may play a role in their pathogenesis, as DNA methylation at several genes has been associated with these disorders. We have previously shown that methylation in the DLGAP2 gene, coding for a synaptic density protein, is associated with alcohol dependence. In this study, we aimed to examine the association between DLGAP2 methylation and treatment response among patients undergoing acamprosate treatment. METHODS 102 patients under acamprosate treatment were included. DNA methylation analysis at DLGAP2 was performed by bisulfite pyrosequencing at the start and after 3-month treatment. Treatment outcomes were having a relapse during the treatment and severity of craving at the end of three months. Cox proportional hazard and linear regression models were performed. RESULTS Patients whose methylation levels were decreased during the treatment showed an increased risk for relapse within three months in comparison to the ones without methylation change (hazard ratio [HR]=2.44; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.04, 5.73; p=0.04). For the same group, a positive association for the severity of craving was observed, yet statistical significance was not reached (β=2.97; 95% CI=-0.41, 6.34; p=0.08). CONCLUSION We demonstrate that patients whose DLGAP2 methylation levels decrease during acamprosate treatment are more likely to relapse compared to the ones without changes. This is in line with our previous findings showing that DLGAP2 methylation is lower in alcohol dependent subjects compared to controls, and might suggest a role for changes in DLGAP2 methylation in treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatih Özel
- Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Centre for Women's Mental Health during the Reproductive Lifespan - Womher, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | | - Diana Ioana Lupu
- Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Daniil Sarkisyan
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ryan A Hlady
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Keith D Robertson
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Georgy Bakalkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yun Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Joanna M Biernacka
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Victor M Karpyak
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tomas J Ekström
- Departments of Clinical Neuroscience and Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joëlle Rüegg
- Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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6
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White JD, Minto MS, Willis C, Quach BC, Han S, Tao R, Deep-Soboslay A, Zillich L, Clark SL, van den Oord EJCG, Hyde TM, Mayfield RD, Webb BT, Johnson EO, Kleinman JE, Bierut LJ, Hancock DB. Alcohol Use Disorder-Associated DNA Methylation in the Nucleus Accumbens and Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.01.17.23300238. [PMID: 38293028 PMCID: PMC10827272 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.17.23300238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) has a profound public health impact. However, understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and progression of AUD remain limited. Here, we interrogate AUD-associated DNA methylation (DNAm) changes within and across addiction-relevant brain regions: the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Methods Illumina HumanMethylation EPIC array data from 119 decedents of European ancestry (61 cases, 58 controls) were analyzed using robust linear regression, with adjustment for technical and biological variables. Associations were characterized using integrative analyses of public gene regulatory data and published genetic and epigenetic studies. We additionally tested for brain region-shared and -specific associations using mixed effects modeling and assessed implications of these results using public gene expression data. Results At a false discovery rate ≤ 0.05, we identified 53 CpGs significantly associated with AUD status for NAc and 31 CpGs for DLPFC. In a meta-analysis across the regions, we identified an additional 21 CpGs associated with AUD, for a total of 105 unique AUD-associated CpGs (120 genes). AUD-associated CpGs were enriched in histone marks that tag active promoters and our strongest signals were specific to a single brain region. Of the 120 genes, 23 overlapped with previous genetic associations for substance use behaviors; all others represent novel associations. Conclusions Our findings identify AUD-associated methylation signals, the majority of which are specific within NAc or DLPFC. Some signals may constitute predisposing genetic and epigenetic variation, though more work is needed to further disentangle the neurobiological gene regulatory differences associated with AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie D. White
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | | | - Caryn Willis
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | - Bryan C. Quach
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | | | - Ran Tao
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD)
| | | | - Lea Zillich
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Shaunna L. Clark
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Texas A&M University
| | | | | | - R. Dayne Mayfield
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin
| | - Bradley T. Webb
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
| | - Eric O. Johnson
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
- Fellow Program, RTI International
| | | | - Laura J. Bierut
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Dana B. Hancock
- GenOmics and Translational Research Center, RTI International
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7
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Johnson RK, Ireton AJ, Carry PM, Vanderlinden LA, Dong F, Romero A, Johnson DR, Ghosh D, Yang F, Frohnert B, Yang IV, Kechris K, Rewers M, Norris JM. DNA Methylation Near DLGAP2 May Mediate the Relationship between Family History of Type 1 Diabetes and Type 1 Diabetes Risk. Pediatr Diabetes 2023; 2023:5367637. [PMID: 38765731 PMCID: PMC11100224 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5367637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Given the differential risk of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in offspring of affected fathers versus affected mothers and our observation that T1D cases have differential DNA methylation near the imprinted DLGAP2 gene compared to controls, we examined whether methylation near DLGAP2 mediates the association between T1D family history and T1D risk. In a nested case-control study of 87 T1D cases and 87 controls from the Diabetes Autoimmunity Study in the Young, we conducted causal mediation analyses at 12 DLGAP2 region CpGs to decompose the effect of family history on T1D risk into indirect and direct effects. These effects were estimated from two regression models adjusted for the human leukocyte antigen DR3/4 genotype: a linear regression of family history on methylation (mediator model) and a logistic regression of family history and methylation on T1D (outcome model). For 8 of the 12 CpGs, we identified a significant interaction between T1D family history and methylation on T1D risk. Accounting for this interaction, we found that the increased risk of T1D for children with affected mothers compared to those with no family history was mediated through differences in methylation at two CpGs (cg27351978, cg00565786) in the DLGAP2 region, as demonstrated by a significant pure natural indirect effect (odds ratio (OR) = 1.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06-3.71) and nonsignificant total natural direct effect (OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 0.16-16.62) (for cg00565786). In contrast, the increased risk of T1D for children with an affected father or sibling was not explained by DNA methylation changes at these CpGs. Results were similar for cg27351978 and robust in sensitivity analyses. Lastly, we found that DNA methylation in the DLGAP2 region was associated (P<0:05) with gene expression of nearby protein-coding genes DLGAP2, ARHGEF10, ZNF596, and ERICH1. Results indicate that the maternal protective effect conferred through exposure to T1D in utero may operate through changes to DNA methylation that have functional downstream consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randi K. Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amanda J. Ireton
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Patrick M. Carry
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Colorado Program for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lauren A. Vanderlinden
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Fran Dong
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Alex Romero
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David R. Johnson
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Debashis Ghosh
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brigitte Frohnert
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ivana V. Yang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Katerina Kechris
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Marian Rewers
- Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jill M. Norris
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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8
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Domi E, Barchiesi R, Barbier E. Epigenetic Dysregulation in Alcohol-Associated Behaviors: Preclinical and Clinical Evidence. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 36717533 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is characterized by loss of control over intake and drinking despite harmful consequences. At a molecular level, AUD is associated with long-term neuroadaptations in key brain regions that are involved in reward processing and decision-making. Over the last decades, a great effort has been made to understand the neurobiological basis underlying AUD. Epigenetic mechanisms have emerged as an important mechanism in the regulation of long-term alcohol-induced gene expression changes. Here, we review the literature supporting a role for epigenetic processes in AUD. We particularly focused on the three most studied epigenetic mechanisms: DNA methylation, Histone modification and non-coding RNAs. Clinical studies indicate an association between AUD and DNA methylation both at the gene and global levels. Using behavioral paradigms that mimic some of the characteristics of AUD, preclinical studies demonstrate that changes in epigenetic mechanisms can functionally impact alcohol-associated behaviors. While many studies support a therapeutic potential for targeting epigenetic enzymes, more research is needed to fully understand their role in AUD. Identification of brain circuits underlying alcohol-associated behaviors has made major advances in recent years. However, there are very few studies that investigate how epigenetic mechanisms can affect these circuits or impact the neuronal ensembles that promote alcohol-associated behaviors. Studies that focus on the role of circuit-specific and cell-specific epigenetic changes for clinically relevant alcohol behaviors may provide new insights on the functional role of epigenetic processes in AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esi Domi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, Center for Neuroscience, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Riccardo Barchiesi
- Department of Neuroscience, Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Alcohol Addiction Research, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Estelle Barbier
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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9
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Jarczak J, Miszczak M, Radwanska K. Is DNA methylation in the brain a mechanism of alcohol use disorder? Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:957203. [PMID: 36778133 PMCID: PMC9908583 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.957203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a worldwide problem. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanisms of alcohol misuse are still poorly understood, therefore successful therapeutic approaches are limited. Accumulating data indicate that the tendency for compulsive alcohol use is inherited, suggesting a genetic background as an important factor. However, the probability to develop AUD is also affected by life experience and environmental factors. Therefore, the epigenetic modifications that are altered over lifetime likely contribute to increased risk of alcohol misuse. Here, we review the literature looking for the link between DNA methylation in the brain, a common epigenetic modification, and AUD-related behaviors in humans, mice and rats. We sum up the main findings, identify the existing gaps in our knowledge and indicate future directions of the research.
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10
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Li T, Du D, Zhang D, Lin Y, Ma J, Zhou M, Meng W, Jin Z, Chen Z, Yuan H, Wang J, Dong S, Sun S, Ye W, Li B, Liu H, Zhang Z, Jiao Y, Xie Z, Qiu W, Liu Y. CRISPR-based targeted haplotype-resolved assembly of a megabase region. Nat Commun 2023; 14:22. [PMID: 36596772 PMCID: PMC9810730 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35389-w] [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: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Constructing high-quality haplotype-resolved genome assemblies has substantially improved the ability to detect and characterize genetic variants. A targeted approach providing readily access to the rich information from haplotype-resolved genome assemblies will be appealing to groups of basic researchers and medical scientists focused on specific genomic regions. Here, using the 4.5 megabase, notoriously difficult-to-assemble major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region as an example, we demonstrated an approach to construct haplotype-resolved assembly of the targeted genomic region with the CRISPR-based enrichment. Compared to the results from haplotype-resolved genome assembly, our targeted approach achieved comparable completeness and accuracy with reduced computing complexity, sequencing cost, as well as the amount of starting materials. Moreover, using the targeted assembled personal MHC haplotypes as the reference both improves the quantification accuracy for sequencing data and enables allele-specific functional genomics analyses of the MHC region. Given its highly efficient use of resources, our approach can greatly facilitate population genetic studies of targeted regions, and may pave a new way to elucidate the molecular mechanisms in disease etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taotao Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Duo Du
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yicheng Lin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiakang Ma
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengyu Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weida Meng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zelin Jin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziqiang Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haozhe Yuan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jue Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shulong Dong
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaoyang Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Ye
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bosen Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Houbao Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuchen Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenqing Qiu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,Human Phenome Institute, Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yun Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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11
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Bai Y, Wang H, Li C. SAPAP Scaffold Proteins: From Synaptic Function to Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233815. [PMID: 36497075 PMCID: PMC9740047 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Excitatory (glutamatergic) synaptic transmission underlies many aspects of brain activity and the genesis of normal human behavior. The postsynaptic scaffolding proteins SAP90/PSD-95-associated proteins (SAPAPs), which are abundant components of the postsynaptic density (PSD) at excitatory synapses, play critical roles in synaptic structure, formation, development, plasticity, and signaling. The convergence of human genetic data with recent in vitro and in vivo animal model data indicates that mutations in the genes encoding SAPAP1-4 are associated with neurological and psychiatric disorders, and that dysfunction of SAPAP scaffolding proteins may contribute to the pathogenesis of various neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and bipolar disorder. Here, we review recent major genetic, epigenetic, molecular, behavioral, electrophysiological, and circuitry studies that have advanced our knowledge by clarifying the roles of SAPAP proteins at the synapses, providing new insights into the mechanistic links to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxia Bai
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (STCSM & MOE), Affiliated Mental Health Center (ECNU), School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200335, China
| | - Huimin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (STCSM & MOE), Affiliated Mental Health Center (ECNU), School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200335, China
- NYU-ECNU Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science at NYU Shanghai, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Chunxia Li
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (STCSM & MOE), Affiliated Mental Health Center (ECNU), School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai 200335, China
- Correspondence:
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12
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Hsieh MY, Tuan LH, Chang HC, Wang YC, Chen CH, Shy HT, Lee LJ, Gau SSF. Altered synaptic protein expression, aberrant spine morphology, and impaired spatial memory in Dlgap2 mutant mice, a genetic model of autism spectrum disorder. Cereb Cortex 2022; 33:4779-4793. [PMID: 36169576 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A microdeletion of approximately 2.4 Mb at the 8p23 terminal region has been identified in a Taiwanese autistic boy. Among the products transcribed/translated from genes mapped in this region, the reduction of DLGAP2, a postsynaptic scaffold protein, might be involved in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). DLGAP2 protein was detected in the hippocampus yet abolished in homozygous Dlgap2 knockout (Dlgap2 KO) mice. In this study, we characterized the hippocampal phenotypes in Dlgap2 mutant mice. Dlgap2 KO mice exhibited impaired spatial memory, indicating poor hippocampal function in the absence of DLGAP2. Aberrant expressions of postsynaptic proteins, including PSD95, SHANK3, HOMER1, GluN2A, GluR2, mGluR1, mGluR5, βCAMKII, ERK1/2, ARC, BDNF, were noticed in Dlgap2 mutant mice. Further, the spine density was increased in Dlgap2 KO mice, while the ratio of mushroom-type spines was decreased. We also observed a thinner postsynaptic density thickness in Dlgap2 KO mice at the ultrastructural level. These structural changes found in the hippocampus of Dlgap2 KO mice might be linked to impaired hippocampus-related cognitive functions such as spatial memory. Mice with Dlgap2 deficiency, showing signs of intellectual disability, a common co-occurring condition in patients with ASD, could be a promising animal model which may advance our understanding of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Yen Hsieh
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Heng Tuan
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,Institute of Systems Neuroscience, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ho-Ching Chang
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsiang Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Horng-Tzer Shy
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Jen Lee
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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13
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Clark SL, Chan RF, Zhao M, Xie LY, Copeland WE, Penninx BW, Aberg KA, van den Oord EJ. Dual methylation and hydroxymethylation study of alcohol use disorder. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13114. [PMID: 34791764 PMCID: PMC8891051 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Using an integrative, multi-tissue design, we sought to characterize methylation and hydroxymethylation changes in blood and brain associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). First, we used epigenomic deconvolution to perform cell-type-specific methylome-wide association studies within subpopulations of granulocytes/T-cells/B-cells/monocytes in 1132 blood samples. Blood findings were then examined for overlap with AUD-related associations with methylation and hydroxymethylation in 50 human post-mortem brain samples. Follow-up analyses investigated if overlapping findings mediated AUD-associated transcription changes in the same brain samples. Lastly, we replicated our blood findings in an independent sample of 412 individuals and aimed to replicate published alcohol methylation findings using our results. Cell-type-specific analyses in blood identified methylome-wide significant associations in monocytes and T-cells. The monocyte findings were significantly enriched for AUD-related methylation and hydroxymethylation in brain. Hydroxymethylation in specific sites mediated AUD-associated transcription in the same brain samples. As part of the most comprehensive methylation study of AUD to date, this work involved the first cell-type-specific methylation study of AUD conducted in blood, identifying and replicating a finding in DLGAP1 that may be a blood-based biomarker of AUD. In this first study to consider the role of hydroxymethylation in AUD, we found evidence for a novel mechanism for cognitive deficits associated with AUD. Our results suggest promising new avenues for AUD research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robin F. Chan
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University
| | - Min Zhao
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University
| | - Lin Y. Xie
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University
| | | | - Brenda W.J.H. Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont,Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karolina A. Aberg
- Center for Biomarker Research and Precision Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University
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14
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Zillich L, Frank J, Streit F, Friske MM, Foo JC, Sirignano L, Heilmann-Heimbach S, Dukal H, Degenhardt F, Hoffmann P, Hansson AC, Nöthen MM, Rietschel M, Spanagel R, Witt SH. Epigenome-wide association study of alcohol use disorder in five brain regions. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:832-839. [PMID: 34775485 PMCID: PMC8882178 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01228-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is closely linked to the brain regions forming the neurocircuitry of addiction. Postmortem human brain tissue enables the direct study of the molecular pathomechanisms of AUD. This study aims to identify these mechanisms by examining differential DNA-methylation between cases with severe AUD (n = 53) and controls (n = 58) using a brain-region-specific approach, in which sample sizes ranged between 46 and 94. Samples of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), Brodmann Area 9 (BA9), caudate nucleus (CN), ventral striatum (VS), and putamen (PUT) were investigated. DNA-methylation levels were determined using the Illumina HumanMethylationEPIC Beadchip. Epigenome-wide association analyses were carried out to identify differentially methylated CpG-sites and regions between cases and controls in each brain region. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), gene-set, and GWAS-enrichment analyses were performed. Two differentially methylated CpG-sites were associated with AUD in the CN, and 18 in VS (q < 0.05). No epigenome-wide significant CpG-sites were found in BA9, ACC, or PUT. Differentially methylated regions associated with AUD case-/control status (q < 0.05) were found in the CN (n = 6), VS (n = 18), and ACC (n = 1). In the VS, the WGCNA-module showing the strongest association with AUD was enriched for immune-related pathways. This study is the first to analyze methylation differences between AUD cases and controls in multiple brain regions and consists of the largest sample to date. Several novel CpG-sites and regions implicated in AUD were identified, providing a first basis to explore epigenetic correlates of AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Zillich
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Josef Frank
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Fabian Streit
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marion M. Friske
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jerome C. Foo
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Lea Sirignano
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefanie Heilmann-Heimbach
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Helene Dukal
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Franziska Degenhardt
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany ,grid.410718.b0000 0001 0262 7331Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Per Hoffmann
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anita C. Hansson
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Markus M. Nöthen
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, School of Medicine & University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marcella Rietschel
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Stephanie H. Witt
- grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany ,grid.413757.30000 0004 0477 2235Center for Innovative Psychiatric and Psychotherapeutic Research, Biobank, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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15
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Zhu X, Huang J, Huang S, Wen Y, Lan X, Wang X, Lu C, Wang Z, Fan N, Shang D. Combining Metabolomics and Interpretable Machine Learning to Reveal Plasma Metabolic Profiling and Biological Correlates of Alcohol-Dependent Inpatients: What About Tryptophan Metabolism Regulation? Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:760669. [PMID: 34859050 PMCID: PMC8630631 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.760669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol dependence (AD) is a condition of alcohol use disorder in which the drinkers frequently develop emotional symptoms associated with a continuous alcohol intake. AD characterized by metabolic disturbances can be quantitatively analyzed by metabolomics to identify the alterations in metabolic pathways. This study aimed to: i) compare the plasma metabolic profiling between healthy and AD-diagnosed individuals to reveal the altered metabolic profiles in AD, and ii) identify potential biological correlates of alcohol-dependent inpatients based on metabolomics and interpretable machine learning. Plasma samples were obtained from healthy (n = 42) and AD-diagnosed individuals (n = 43). The plasma metabolic differences between them were investigated using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (AB SCIEX® QTRAP 4500 system) in different electrospray ionization modes with scheduled multiple reaction monitoring scans. In total, 59 and 52 compounds were semi-quantitatively measured in positive and negative ionization modes, respectively. In addition, 39 metabolites were identified as important variables to contribute to the classifications using an orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) (VIP > 1) and also significantly different between healthy and AD-diagnosed individuals using univariate analysis (p-value < 0.05 and false discovery rate < 0.05). Among the identified metabolites, indole-3-carboxylic acid, quinolinic acid, hydroxy-tryptophan, and serotonin were involved in the tryptophan metabolism along the indole, kynurenine, and serotonin pathways. Metabolic pathway analysis revealed significant changes or imbalances in alanine, aspartate, glutamate metabolism, which was possibly the main altered pathway related to AD. Tryptophan metabolism interactively influenced other metabolic pathways, such as nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism. Furthermore, among the OPLS-DA-identified metabolites, normetanephrine and ascorbic acid were demonstrated as suitable biological correlates of AD inpatients from our model using an interpretable, supervised decision tree classifier algorithm. These findings indicate that the discriminatory metabolic profiles between healthy and AD-diagnosed individuals may benefit researchers in illustrating the underlying molecular mechanisms of AD. This study also highlights the approach of combining metabolomics and interpretable machine learning as a valuable tool to uncover potential biological correlates. Future studies should focus on the global analysis of the possible roles of these differential metabolites and disordered metabolic pathways in the pathophysiology of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuqing Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxin Huang
- Department of Substance Dependence, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanqing Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuguan Wen
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaochang Lan
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Substance Dependence, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Xipei Wang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuanli Lu
- Guangzhou Rely Medical Diagnostic Technology Co. Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhanzhang Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ni Fan
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Substance Dependence, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Dewei Shang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Cheng S, Wen Y, Liu L, Cheng B, Liang C, Ye J, Chu X, Yao Y, Jia Y, Kafle OP, Zhang F. Traumatic events during childhood and its risks to substance use in adulthood: an observational and genome-wide by environment interaction study in UK Biobank. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:431. [PMID: 34417442 PMCID: PMC8379203 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01557-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to explore the underlying genetic mechanisms of traumatic events during childhood affecting the risks of adult substance use in present study. Using UK Biobank cohort, linear regression model was first applied to assess the relationships between cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking in adults with traumatic events during childhood, including felt hated by family member (41,648-111,465), felt loved (46,394-124,481) and sexually molested (47,598-127,766). Using traumatic events as exposure variables, genome-wide by environment interaction study was then performed by PLINK 2.0 to identify cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking associated genes interacting with traumatic events during childhood. We found that the frequency of cigarette smoking was significantly associated with felt hated by family member (coefficient = 0.42, P < 1.0 × 10-9), felt loved (coefficient = -0.31, P < 1.0 × 10-9) and sexually molested (coefficient = 0.46, P < 1.0 × 10-9). We also observed weaker associations of alcohol drinking with felt hated by family member (coefficient = 0.08, P = 3.10 × 10-6) and felt loved (coefficient = -0.06, P = 3.15 × 10-7). GWEIS identified multiple candidate loci interacting with traumatic events, such as CTNNA3 (rs189142060, P = 4.23 × 10-8) between felt hated by family member and the frequency of cigarette smoking, GABRG3 (rs117020886, P = 2.77 × 10-8) between felt hated by family member and the frequency of alcohol drinking. Our results suggested the significant impact of traumatic events during childhood on the risk of cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqiang Cheng
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yan Wen
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Li Liu
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Bolun Cheng
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chujun Liang
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jing Ye
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaomeng Chu
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yao Yao
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yumeng Jia
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Om Prakash Kafle
- grid.43169.390000 0001 0599 1243Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of National Health and Family Planning Commission, School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.
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Prospects of Genetics and Epigenetics of Alcohol Use Disorder. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40429-020-00331-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
In this study, we illustrate recent findings regarding the genetics and epigenetics of alcohol use disorder (AUD). We further outline the future direction of genetic and epigenetic research in AUD.
Recent Findings
Recent genome- and epigenome-wide studies allow new insight into genetic and epigenetic variation associated with AUD. The largest EWAS of AUD so far/to date found evidence for altered glucocorticoid receptor regulation. Longitudinal studies provide insight into the dynamics of the disease. Analyses of postmortem brain tissue reveal the impact of chronic alcohol consumption on DNA methylation in the brain.
Summary
Genetic and environmental factors—mediated via epigenetic mechanisms—play an important role in AUD. Although knowledge of the biological underpinnings of AUD is still limited, ongoing research will ultimately lead to the development of biomarkers for disease classification, course of disease, and treatment response to support personalized medicine in the future.
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