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Andersen RE, Alkuraya IF, Ajeesh A, Sakamoto T, Mena EL, Amr SS, Romi H, Kenna MA, Robson CD, Wilch ES, Nalbandian K, Piña-Aguilar R, Walsh CA, Morton CC. Chromosomal structural rearrangements implicate long non-coding RNAs in rare germline disorders. Hum Genet 2024; 143:921-938. [PMID: 39060644 PMCID: PMC11294402 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-024-02693-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been increased focus on exploring the role the non-protein-coding genome plays in Mendelian disorders. One class of particular interest is long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which has recently been implicated in the regulation of diverse molecular processes. However, because lncRNAs do not encode protein, there is uncertainty regarding what constitutes a pathogenic lncRNA variant, and thus annotating such elements is challenging. The Developmental Genome Anatomy Project (DGAP) and similar projects recruit individuals with apparently balanced chromosomal abnormalities (BCAs) that disrupt or dysregulate genes in order to annotate the human genome. We hypothesized that rearrangements disrupting lncRNAs could be the underlying genetic etiology for the phenotypes of a subset of these individuals. Thus, we assessed 279 cases with BCAs and selected 191 cases with simple BCAs (breakpoints at only two genomic locations) for further analysis of lncRNA disruptions. From these, we identified 66 cases in which the chromosomal rearrangements directly disrupt lncRNAs. In 30 cases, no genes of any other class aside from lncRNAs are directly disrupted, consistent with the hypothesis that lncRNA disruptions could underly the phenotypes of these individuals. Strikingly, the lncRNAs MEF2C-AS1 and ENSG00000257522 are each disrupted in two unrelated cases. Furthermore, we experimentally tested the lncRNAs TBX2-AS1 and MEF2C-AS1 and found that knockdown of these lncRNAs resulted in decreased expression of the neighboring transcription factors TBX2 and MEF2C, respectively. To showcase the power of this genomic approach for annotating lncRNAs, here we focus on clinical reports and genetic analysis of seven individuals with likely developmental etiologies due to lncRNA disruptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Andersen
- Division of Genetics and Genomics and Manton Center for Orphan Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ibrahim F Alkuraya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard College, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Abna Ajeesh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tyler Sakamoto
- Division of Genetics and Genomics and Manton Center for Orphan Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard College, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Elijah L Mena
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Genetics, Department of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sami S Amr
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hila Romi
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Margaret A Kenna
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caroline D Robson
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellen S Wilch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katarena Nalbandian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Raul Piña-Aguilar
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher A Walsh
- Division of Genetics and Genomics and Manton Center for Orphan Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cynthia C Morton
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- University of Manchester, Manchester Center for Audiology and Deafness, Manchester, UK.
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2
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Andersen RE, Alkuraya IF, Ajeesh A, Sakamoto T, Mena EL, Amr SS, Romi H, Kenna MA, Robson CD, Wilch ES, Nalbandian K, Piña-Aguilar R, Walsh CA, Morton CC. Rare germline disorders implicate long non-coding RNAs disrupted by chromosomal structural rearrangements. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.06.16.24307499. [PMID: 38946951 PMCID: PMC11213069 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.16.24307499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been increased focus on exploring the role the non-protein-coding genome plays in Mendelian disorders. One class of particular interest is long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which has recently been implicated in the regulation of diverse molecular processes. However, because lncRNAs do not encode protein, there is uncertainty regarding what constitutes a pathogenic lncRNA variant, and thus annotating such elements is challenging. The Developmental Genome Anatomy Project (DGAP) and similar projects recruit individuals with apparently balanced chromosomal abnormalities (BCAs) that disrupt or dysregulate genes in order to annotate the human genome. We hypothesized that rearrangements disrupting lncRNAs could be the underlying genetic etiology for the phenotypes of a subset of these individuals. Thus, we assessed 279 cases with BCAs and selected 191 cases with simple BCAs (breakpoints at only two genomic locations) for further analysis of lncRNA disruptions. From these, we identified 66 cases in which the chromosomal rearrangements directly disrupt lncRNAs. Strikingly, the lncRNAs MEF2C-AS1 and ENSG00000257522 are each disrupted in two unrelated cases. Furthermore, in 30 cases, no genes of any other class aside from lncRNAs are directly disrupted, consistent with the hypothesis that lncRNA disruptions could underly the phenotypes of these individuals. To showcase the power of this genomic approach for annotating lncRNAs, here we focus on clinical reports and genetic analysis of two individuals with BCAs and additionally highlight six individuals with likely developmental etiologies due to lncRNA disruptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E. Andersen
- Division of Genetics and Genomics and Manton Center for Orphan Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ibrahim F. Alkuraya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard College, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Abna Ajeesh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tyler Sakamoto
- Division of Genetics and Genomics and Manton Center for Orphan Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard College, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Elijah L. Mena
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Genetics, Department of Genetics, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sami S. Amr
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hila Romi
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Margaret A. Kenna
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caroline D. Robson
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellen S. Wilch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katarena Nalbandian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Raul Piña-Aguilar
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher A. Walsh
- Division of Genetics and Genomics and Manton Center for Orphan Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cynthia C. Morton
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- University of Manchester, Manchester Center for Audiology and Deafness, UK
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3
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Gwilliam K, Sperber M, Perry K, Rose KP, Ginsberg L, Paladugu N, Song Y, Milon B, Elkon R, Hertzano R. A cell type-specific approach to elucidate the role of miR-96 in inner ear hair cells. FRONTIERS IN AUDIOLOGY AND OTOLOGY 2024; 2:1400576. [PMID: 38826689 PMCID: PMC11141775 DOI: 10.3389/fauot.2024.1400576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Mutations in microRNA-96 (miR-96), a microRNA expressed within the hair cells (HCs) of the inner ear, result in progressive hearing loss in both mouse models and humans. In this study, we present the first HC-specific RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) dataset from newborn Mir96Dmdo heterozygous, homozygous mutant, and wildtype mice. Methods Bulk RNA-seq was performed on HCs of newborn Mir96Dmdo heterozygous, homozygous mutant, and wildtype mice. Differentially expressed gene analysis was conducted on Mir96Dmdo homozygous mutant HCs compared to wildtype littermate controls, followed by GO term and protein-protein interaction analysis on these differentially expressed genes. Results We identify 215 upregulated and 428 downregulated genes in the HCs of the Mir96Dmdo homozygous mutant mice compared to their wildtype littermate controls. Many of the significantly downregulated genes in Mir96Dmdo homozygous mutant HCs have established roles in HC development and/or known roles in deafness including Myo15a, Myo7a, Ush1c, Gfi1, and Ptprq and have enrichment in gene ontology (GO) terms with biological functions such as sensory perception of sound. Interestingly, upregulated genes in Mir96Dmdo homozygous mutants, including possible miR-96 direct targets, show higher wildtype expression in supporting cells compared to HCs. Conclusion Our data further support a role for miR-96 in HC development, possibly as a repressor of supporting cell transcriptional programs in HCs. The HC-specific Mir96Dmdo RNA-seq data set generated from this manuscript are now publicly available in a dedicated profile in the gene expression analysis resource (gEAR-https://umgear.org/p?l=miR96).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Gwilliam
- Section on Omics and Translational Science of Hearing, Neurotology Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Michal Sperber
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Katherine Perry
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kevin P. Rose
- Section on Omics and Translational Science of Hearing, Neurotology Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Laura Ginsberg
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nikhil Paladugu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Yang Song
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Beatrice Milon
- Section on Omics and Translational Science of Hearing, Neurotology Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Ran Elkon
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronna Hertzano
- Section on Omics and Translational Science of Hearing, Neurotology Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Cohn O, Yankovitz G, Mandelboim M, Peshes-Yaloz N, Brandes R, Bacharach E, Gat-Viks I. The host transcriptional response to superinfection by influenza A virus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. mSystems 2024; 9:e0104823. [PMID: 38446104 PMCID: PMC11019783 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01048-23] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Secondary bacterial challenges during influenza virus infection "superinfection") cause excessive mortality and hospitalization. Here, we present a longitudinal study of bulk gene expression changes in murine lungs during superinfection, with an initial influenza A virus infection and a subsequent Streptococcus pneumoniae infection. In addition to the well-characterized impairment of the host response, we identified superinfection-specific alterations in the global transcriptional program that are linked to the host's ability to resist the pathogens. Particularly, whereas superinfected mice manifested an excessive rapid induction of the resistance-to-infection program, there was a substantial tissue-level rewiring of this program: upon superinfection, interferon-regulated genes were switched from positive to negative correlations with the host's resistance state, whereas genes of fatty acid metabolism switched from negative to positive correlations with resistance states. Thus, the transcriptional resistance state in superinfection is reprogrammed toward repressed interferon signaling and induced fatty acid metabolism. Our findings suggest new insights into a tissue-level remodeling of the host defense upon superinfection, providing promising targets for future therapeutic interventions. IMPORTANCE Secondary bacterial infections are the most frequent complications during influenza A virus (IAV) pandemic outbreaks, contributing to excessive morbidity and mortality in the human population. Most IAV-related deaths are attributed to Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP) infections, which usually begin within the first week of IAV infection in the respiratory tracts. Here, we focused on longitudinal transcriptional responses during a superinfection model consisting of an SP infection that follows an initial IAV infection, comparing superinfection to an IAV-only infection, an SP-only infection, and control treatments. Our longitudinal data allowed a fine analysis of gene expression changes during superinfection. For instance, we found that superinfected mice exhibited rapid gene expression induction or reduction within the first 12 h after encountering the second pathogen. Cell proliferation and immune response activation processes were upregulated, while endothelial processes, vasculogenesis, and angiogenesis were downregulated, providing promising targets for future therapeutic interventions. We further analyzed the longitudinal transcriptional responses in the context of a previously defined spectrum of the host's resistance state, revealing superinfection-specific reprogramming of resistance states, such as reprogramming of fatty acid metabolism and interferon signaling. The reprogrammed functions are compelling new targets for switching the pathogenic superinfection state into a single-infection state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofir Cohn
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Gal Yankovitz
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Michal Mandelboim
- Central Virology Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Naama Peshes-Yaloz
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rachel Brandes
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eran Bacharach
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Irit Gat-Viks
- The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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5
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Prkra Mutation Alters Long Noncoding RNA Expression During Embryonic External Ear Development. J Craniofac Surg 2023; 34:e156-e161. [PMID: 35968982 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000008909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Point mutations in the Prkra gene result in abnormalities in mouse external ear development; however, the regulatory mechanisms underlying this phenotype are unclear. This study evaluated long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) expression profiles in the outer ear tissues of embryos at E15.5 and E17.5 from the Prkra little ear mouse model using transcriptome sequencing. Differentially expressed lncRNAs between the experimental and control groups were identified and evaluated by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analyses. The results revealed various lncRNAs that contribute to the external ear development in Prkra mutant mice, some of which were involved in multiple developmental signaling pathways. There were expression changes in some key regulatory lncRNAs after point mutations in the Prkra gene, some of which were involved in multiple developmental signaling pathways, such as the Hippo, MAPK, and ErbB signaling pathways. These results provide insight into the regulatory mechanism underlying external ear embryonic development and reveal candidate lncRNAs.
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6
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Koffler-Brill T, Noy Y, Avraham KB. The long and short: Non-coding RNAs in the mammalian inner ear. Hear Res 2023; 428:108666. [PMID: 36566643 PMCID: PMC9883734 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2022.108666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a critical role in the entire body, and their mis-regulation is often associated with disease. In parallel with the advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies, there is a great deal of focus on this broad class of RNAs. Although these molecules are not translated into proteins, they are now well established as significant regulatory components in many biological pathways and pathological conditions. ncRNAs can be roughly divided into two main sub-groups based on the length of the transcript, with both the small and long non-coding RNAs having diverse regulatory functions. The smaller length group includes ribosomal RNAs (rRNA), transfer RNAs (tRNA), small nuclear RNAs (snRNA), small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNA), microRNAs (miRNA), small interfering RNAs (siRNA), and PIWI-associated RNAs (piRNA). The longer length group includes linear long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) and circular RNAs (circRNA). This review is designed to present the different classes of small and long ncRNA molecules and describe some of their known roles in physiological and pathological conditions, as well as methods used to assess the validity and function of miRNAs and lncRNAs, with a focus on their role and functions in the inner ear, hearing and deafness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Koffler-Brill
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Yael Noy
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel.
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7
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Cao R, Takechi M, Wang X, Furutera T, Nojiri T, Koyabu D, Li J. Temporal and regulatory dynamics of the inner ear transcriptome during development in mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21196. [PMID: 36476755 PMCID: PMC9729293 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25808-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The inner ear controls hearing and balance, while the temporal molecular signatures and transcriptional regulatory dynamics underlying its development are still unclear. In this study, we investigated time-series transcriptome in the mouse inner ear from embryonic day 11.5 (E11.5) to postnatal day 7 (P7) using bulk RNA-Seq. A total of 10,822 differentially expressed genes were identified between pairwise stages. We identified nine significant temporal expression profiles using time-series expression analysis. The constantly down-regulated profiles throughout the development are related to DNA activity and neurosensory development, while the constantly upregulated profiles are related to collagen and extracellular matrix. Further co-expression network analysis revealed that several hub genes, such as Pnoc, Cd9, and Krt27, are related to the neurosensory development, cell adhesion, and keratinization. We uncovered three important transcription regulatory paths during mice inner ear development. Transcription factors related to Hippo/TGFβ signaling induced decreased expressions of genes related to the neurosensory and inner ear development, while a series of INF genes activated the expressions of genes in immunoregulation. In addition to deepening our understanding of the temporal and regulatory mechanisms of inner ear development, our transcriptomic data could fuel future multi-species comparative studies and elucidate the evolutionary trajectory of auditory development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Cao
- City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Masaki Takechi
- Department of Anatomy and Life Structure, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
- Department of Molecular Craniofacial Embryology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8549, Japan
| | - Xiuwan Wang
- City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Toshiko Furutera
- Department of Anatomy and Life Structure, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Taro Nojiri
- Department of Anatomy and Life Structure, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Daisuke Koyabu
- Department of Molecular Craniofacial Embryology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8549, Japan.
- Research and Development Center for Precision Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-2 Kasuga, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, 305-8550, Japan.
| | - Jun Li
- City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China.
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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8
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Abstract
Current estimates suggest that nearly half a billion people worldwide are affected by hearing loss. Because of the major psychological, social, economic, and health ramifications, considerable efforts have been invested in identifying the genes and molecular pathways involved in hearing loss, whether genetic or environmental, to promote prevention, improve rehabilitation, and develop therapeutics. Genomic sequencing technologies have led to the discovery of genes associated with hearing loss. Studies of the transcriptome and epigenome of the inner ear have characterized key regulators and pathways involved in the development of the inner ear and have paved the way for their use in regenerative medicine. In parallel, the immense preclinical success of using viral vectors for gene delivery in animal models of hearing loss has motivated the industry to work on translating such approaches into the clinic. Here, we review the recent advances in the genomics of auditory function and dysfunction, from patient diagnostics to epigenetics and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahar Taiber
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; ,
| | - Kathleen Gwilliam
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; ,
| | - Ronna Hertzano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; ,
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; ,
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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9
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Avraham KB, Khalaily L, Noy Y, Kamal L, Koffler-Brill T, Taiber S. The noncoding genome and hearing loss. Hum Genet 2022; 141:323-333. [PMID: 34491412 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02359-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The age of sequencing has provided unprecedented insights into the human genome. The coding region of the genome comprises nearly 20,000 genes, of which approximately 4000 are associated with human disease. Beyond the protein-coding genome, which accounts for only 3% of the genome, lies a vast pool of regulatory elements in the form of promoters, enhancers, RNA species, and other intricate elements. These features undoubtably influence human health and disease, and as a result, a great deal of effort is currently being invested in deciphering their identity and mechanism. While a paucity of material has caused a lag in identifying these elements in the inner ear, the emergence of technologies for dealing with a minimal number of cells now has the field working overtime to catch up. Studies on microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), methylation, histone modifications, and more are ongoing. A number of microRNAs and other noncoding elements are known to be associated with hearing impairment and there is promise that regulatory elements will serve as future tools and targets of therapeutics and diagnostics. This review covers the current state of the field and considers future directions for the noncoding genome and implications for hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Lama Khalaily
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Noy
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Lara Kamal
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tal Koffler-Brill
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shahar Taiber
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
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10
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Li Q, Zang Y, Sun Z, Zhang W, Liu H. Long noncoding RNA Gm44593 attenuates oxidative stress from age-related hearing loss by regulating miR-29b/WNK1. Bioengineered 2021; 13:573-582. [PMID: 34967279 PMCID: PMC8805810 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2012062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNA has been reported to play important role in various disease. However, the function of lncRNA in age-related hearing loss still unclear. The aim of our study is to investigate the function and mechanism of lncRNA Gm44593 in AHL. ATP content, JC-1 assay, mitochondrial content, cell death rates and dual-luciferase reporter assay were performed to assess the function of lncRNA Gm44593 in HEI-OC1 cells. The expression of lncRNA Gm44593 was significantly upregulated upon H2O2 and starvation treatment. Overexpression of lncRNA Gm44593 manifestly reduced the cell death rates. The ATP content, mtDNA content and mitochondrial membrane potential were alleviated upon overexpression of lncRNA Gm44593. We also proved that miR-29b is the direct target of lncRNA Gm44593. Overexpression of miR-29b completely restored the effect induced by lncRNA Gm44593. In addition, we provided evidences that WNK1 is the direct target of miR-29b. Our research uncovers a potential role of lncRNA Gm44593 in age-related hearing loss. We provide new insights into potential therapeutic targets for the amelioration of age-related hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Yanzi Zang
- Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Zhanwei Sun
- Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Wenqi Zhang
- Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Hongjian Liu
- Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
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11
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Paplou V, Schubert NMA, Pyott SJ. Age-Related Changes in the Cochlea and Vestibule: Shared Patterns and Processes. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:680856. [PMID: 34539328 PMCID: PMC8446668 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.680856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Both age-related hearing loss (ARHL) and age-related loss in vestibular function (ARVL) are prevalent conditions with deleterious consequences on the health and quality of life. Age-related changes in the inner ear are key contributors to both conditions. The auditory and vestibular systems rely on a shared sensory organ - the inner ear - and, like other sensory organs, the inner ear is susceptible to the effects of aging. Despite involvement of the same sensory structure, ARHL and ARVL are often considered separately. Insight essential for the development of improved diagnostics and treatments for both ARHL and ARVL can be gained by careful examination of their shared and unique pathophysiology in the auditory and vestibular end organs of the inner ear. To this end, this review begins by comparing the prevalence patterns of ARHL and ARVL. Next, the normal and age-related changes in the structure and function of the auditory and vestibular end organs are compared. Then, the contributions of various molecular mechanisms, notably inflammaging, oxidative stress, and genetic factors, are evaluated as possible common culprits that interrelate pathophysiology in the cochlea and vestibular end organs as part of ARHL and ARVL. A careful comparison of these changes reveals that the patterns of pathophysiology show similarities but also differences both between the cochlea and vestibular end organs and among the vestibular end organs. Future progress will depend on the development and application of new research strategies and the integrated investigation of ARHL and ARVL using both clinical and animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Paplou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Nick M A Schubert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.,Research School of Behavioural and Cognitive Neurosciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Sonja J Pyott
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.,Research School of Behavioural and Cognitive Neurosciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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12
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Koffler-Brill T, Taiber S, Anaya A, Bordeynik-Cohen M, Rosen E, Kolla L, Messika-Gold N, Elkon R, Kelley MW, Ulitsky I, Avraham KB. Identification and characterization of key long non-coding RNAs in the mouse cochlea. RNA Biol 2020; 18:1160-1169. [PMID: 33131415 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1836456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The auditory system is a complex sensory network with an orchestrated multilayer regulatory programme governing its development and maintenance. Accumulating evidence has implicated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as important regulators in numerous systems, as well as in pathological pathways. However, their function in the auditory system has yet to be explored. Using a set of specific criteria, we selected four lncRNAs expressed in the mouse cochlea, which are conserved in the human transcriptome and are relevant for inner ear function. Bioinformatic characterization demonstrated a lack of coding potential and an absence of evolutionary conservation that represent properties commonly shared by their class members. RNAscope® analysis of the spatial and temporal expression profiles revealed specific localization to inner ear cells. Sub-cellular localization analysis presented a distinct pattern for each lncRNA and mouse tissue expression evaluation displayed a large variability in terms of level and location. Our findings establish the expression of specific lncRNAs in different cell types of the auditory system and present a potential pathway by which the lncRNA Gas5 acts in the inner ear. Studying lncRNAs and deciphering their functions may deepen our knowledge of inner ear physiology and morphology and may reveal the basis of as yet unresolved genetic hearing loss-related pathologies. Moreover, our experimental design may be employed as a reference for studying other inner ear-related lncRNAs, as well as lncRNAs expressed in other sensory systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Koffler-Brill
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shahar Taiber
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Alejandro Anaya
- Laboratory of Cochlear Development, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Mor Bordeynik-Cohen
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Einat Rosen
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Likhitha Kolla
- Laboratory of Cochlear Development, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Naama Messika-Gold
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ran Elkon
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Matthew W Kelley
- Laboratory of Cochlear Development, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Igor Ulitsky
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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13
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Tona R, Chen W, Nakano Y, Reyes LD, Petralia RS, Wang YX, Starost MF, Wafa TT, Morell RJ, Cravedi KD, du Hoffmann J, Miyoshi T, Munasinghe JP, Fitzgerald TS, Chudasama Y, Omori K, Pierpaoli C, Banfi B, Dong L, Belyantseva IA, Friedman TB. The phenotypic landscape of a Tbc1d24 mutant mouse includes convulsive seizures resembling human early infantile epileptic encephalopathy. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 28:1530-1547. [PMID: 30602030 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy, deafness, onychodystrophy, osteodystrophy and intellectual disability are associated with a spectrum of mutations of human TBC1D24. The mechanisms underlying TBC1D24-associated disorders and the functions of TBC1D24 are not well understood. Using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, we engineered a mouse with a premature translation stop codon equivalent to human S324Tfs*3, a recessive mutation of TBC1D24 associated with early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (EIEE). Homozygous S324Tfs*3 mice have normal auditory and vestibular functions but show an abrupt onset of spontaneous seizures at postnatal day 15 recapitulating human EIEE. The S324Tfs*3 variant is located in an alternatively spliced micro-exon encoding six perfectly conserved amino acids incorporated postnatally into TBC1D24 protein due to a micro-exon utilization switch. During embryonic and early postnatal development, S324Tfs*3 homozygotes produce predominantly the shorter wild-type TBC1D24 protein isoform that omits the micro-exon. S324Tfs*3 homozygotes show an abrupt onset of seizures at P15 that correlates with a developmental switch to utilization of the micro-exon. A mouse deficient for alternative splice factor SRRM3 impairs incorporation of the Tbc1d24 micro-exon. Wild-type Tbc1d24 mRNA is abundantly expressed in the hippocampus using RNAscope in situ hybridization. Immunogold electron microscopy using a TBC1D24-specific antibody revealed that TBC1D24 is associated with clathrin-coated vesicles and synapses of hippocampal neurons, suggesting a crucial role of TBC1D24 in vesicle trafficking important for neuronal signal transmission. This is the first characterization of a mouse model of human TBC1D24-associated EIEE that can now be used to screen for antiepileptogenic drugs ameliorating TBCID24 seizure disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Tona
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Wenqian Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yoko Nakano
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Laura D Reyes
- Quantitative Medical Imaging Section, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ronald S Petralia
- Advanced Imaging Core, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ya-Xian Wang
- Advanced Imaging Core, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Matthew F Starost
- Division of Veterinary Resources, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Talah T Wafa
- Mouse Auditory Testing Core Facility, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Robert J Morell
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kevin D Cravedi
- Rodent Behavioral Core, National Institute of Mental Health, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Johann du Hoffmann
- Rodent Behavioral Core, National Institute of Mental Health, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Takushi Miyoshi
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jeeva P Munasinghe
- Mouse Imaging Facility, In vivo NMR Center, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tracy S Fitzgerald
- Mouse Auditory Testing Core Facility, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yogita Chudasama
- Rodent Behavioral Core, National Institute of Mental Health, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Section on Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Koichi Omori
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Carlo Pierpaoli
- Quantitative Medical Imaging Section, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Botond Banfi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Lijin Dong
- Genetic Engineering Core, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Inna A Belyantseva
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas B Friedman
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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14
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LncRNA AW112010 Promotes Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Hair Cell Survival: Implications for Age-Related Hearing Loss. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:6150148. [PMID: 31781342 PMCID: PMC6855056 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6150148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) disorder has been found in many kinds of age-associated diseases. However, the role of lncRNA in the development of age-related hearing loss (AHL) is still largely unknown. This study sought to uncover AHL-associated lncRNAs and the function. RNA-sequencing was conducted to profile lncRNA expression in the cochlea of an early-onset AHL mouse model. RT-qPCR assay was used to validate the expression pattern of lncRNAs. ATP assay, JC-1 assay, mitochondrial probe staining, CCK-8 assay, Western blot, and immunocytochemistry were performed to detect the effects of lncRNA AW112010 in HEI-OC1 cells and the mouse cochlea. We identified 88 significantly upregulated lncRNAs and 46 significantly downregulated lncRNAs in the cochlea of aged C57BL/6 mice. We focused on the significantly upregulated AW112010. Silencing of AW112010 decreased the ATP level, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cell viability and increased mitochondrial ROS generation under oxidative stress in HEI-OC1 cells. AW112010 overexpression promoted cell survival in HEI-OC1 cells. AW112010 knockdown reduced mitochondrial mass and impaired mitochondrial biogenesis in HEI-OC1 cells. Activation of mitochondrial biogenesis by resveratrol and STR1720 promoted cell survival. The mitochondrial biogenesis process was activated in the cochlea of aged mice. Moreover, AW112010 regulated AMPK signaling in HEI-OC1 cells. Transcription factor Arid5b elevated in the aged cochlea and induced AW112010 expression and mitochondrial biogenesis in HEI-OC1 cells. Taken together, lncRNAs are dysregulated with aging in the cochlea of C57BL/6 mice. The Arid5b/AW112010 signaling was induced in the aged mouse cochlea and positively modulated the mitochondrial biogenesis to maintain mitochondrial function.
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15
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Hereditary hearing loss; about the known and the unknown. Hear Res 2019; 376:58-68. [PMID: 30665849 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary hearing loss is both clinically and genetically very heterogeneous. Despite the large number of genes that have been associated with the condition, many cases remain unexplained. Novel gene associations with hearing loss are to be expected but also are defects of regulatory regions of the genome which are currently not routinely addressed in molecular genetic testing and research. Inheritance patterns other than monogenic might be more common than assumed in isolated cases and diagnoses might have been missed because of misinterpretation of identified DNA variants. This review summarizes current insights in the genetics of hearing loss, the next steps that are being taken in research, and their challenges. Furthermore, genotype-phenotype correlations and modifying factors are discussed as these are instrumental in counselling hearing impaired individuals and/or their family members.
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16
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Yizhar-Barnea O, Valensisi C, Jayavelu ND, Kishore K, Andrus C, Koffler-Brill T, Ushakov K, Perl K, Noy Y, Bhonker Y, Pelizzola M, Hawkins RD, Avraham KB. DNA methylation dynamics during embryonic development and postnatal maturation of the mouse auditory sensory epithelium. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17348. [PMID: 30478432 PMCID: PMC6255903 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35587-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The inner ear is a complex structure responsible for hearing and balance, and organ pathology is associated with deafness and balance disorders. To evaluate the role of epigenomic dynamics, we performed whole genome bisulfite sequencing at key time points during the development and maturation of the mouse inner ear sensory epithelium (SE). Our single-nucleotide resolution maps revealed variations in both general characteristics and dynamics of DNA methylation over time. This allowed us to predict the location of non-coding regulatory regions and to identify several novel candidate regulatory factors, such as Bach2, that connect stage-specific regulatory elements to molecular features that drive the development and maturation of the SE. Constructing in silico regulatory networks around sites of differential methylation enabled us to link key inner ear regulators, such as Atoh1 and Stat3, to pathways responsible for cell lineage determination and maturation, such as the Notch pathway. We also discovered that a putative enhancer, defined as a low methylated region (LMR), can upregulate the GJB6 gene and a neighboring non-coding RNA. The study of inner ear SE methylomes revealed novel regulatory regions in the hearing organ, which may improve diagnostic capabilities, and has the potential to guide the development of therapeutics for hearing loss by providing multiple intervention points for manipulation of the auditory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer Yizhar-Barnea
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Cristina Valensisi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Department of Genome Sciences, Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Naresh Doni Jayavelu
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Department of Genome Sciences, Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Kamal Kishore
- Center for Genomic Science of IIT@SEMM, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, 20139, Italy
| | - Colin Andrus
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Department of Genome Sciences, Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Tal Koffler-Brill
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Kathy Ushakov
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Kobi Perl
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Yael Noy
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Yoni Bhonker
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Mattia Pelizzola
- Center for Genomic Science of IIT@SEMM, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, 20139, Italy
| | - R David Hawkins
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Department of Genome Sciences, Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel.
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17
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Perl K, Shamir R, Avraham KB. Computational analysis of mRNA expression profiling in the inner ear reveals candidate transcription factors associated with proliferation, differentiation, and deafness. Hum Genomics 2018; 12:30. [PMID: 29929553 PMCID: PMC6013912 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-018-0161-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hearing loss is a major cause of disability worldwide, impairing communication, health, and quality of life. Emerging methods of gene therapy aim to address this morbidity, which can be employed to fix a genetic problem causing hair cell dysfunction and to promote the proliferation of supporting cells in the cochlea and their transdifferentiation into hair cells. In order to extend the applicability of gene therapy, the scientific community is focusing on discovery of additional deafness genes, identifying new genetic variants associated with hearing loss, and revealing new factors that can be manipulated in a coordinated manner to improve hair cell regeneration. Here, we addressed these challenges via genome-wide measurement and computational analysis of transcriptional profiles of mouse cochlea and vestibule sensory epithelium at embryonic day (E)16.5 and postnatal day (P)0. These time points correspond to developmental stages before and during the acquisition of mechanosensitivity, a major turning point in the ability to hear. RESULTS We hypothesized that tissue-specific transcription factors are primarily involved in differentiation, while those associated with development are more concerned with proliferation. Therefore, we searched for enrichment of transcription factor binding motifs in genes differentially expressed between the tissues and between developmental ages of mouse sensory epithelium. By comparison with transcription factors known to alter their expression during avian hair cell regeneration, we identified 37 candidates likely to be important for regeneration. Furthermore, according to our estimates, only half of the deafness genes in human have been discovered. To help remedy the situation, we developed a machine learning classifier that utilizes the expression patterns of genes to predict how likely they are to be undiscovered deafness genes. CONCLUSIONS We used a novel approach to highlight novel additional factors that can serve as points of intervention for enhancing hair cell regeneration. Given the similarities between mouse and human deafness, our predictions may be of value in prioritizing future research on novel human deafness genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kobi Perl
- Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ron Shamir
- Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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18
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Booth KT, Azaiez H, Jahan I, Smith RJH, Fritzsch B. Intracellular Regulome Variability Along the Organ of Corti: Evidence, Approaches, Challenges, and Perspective. Front Genet 2018; 9:156. [PMID: 29868110 PMCID: PMC5951964 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian hearing organ is a regular array of two types of hair cells (HCs) surrounded by six types of supporting cells. Along the tonotopic axis, this conserved radial array of cell types shows longitudinal variations to enhance the tuning properties of basilar membrane. We present the current evidence supporting the hypothesis that quantitative local variations in gene expression profiles are responsible for local cell responses to global gene manipulations. With the advent of next generation sequencing and the unprecedented array of technologies offering high throughput analyses at the single cell level, transcriptomics will become a common tool to enhance our understanding of the inner ear. We provide an overview of the approaches and landmark studies undertaken to date to analyze single cell variations in the organ of Corti and discuss the current limitations. We next provide an overview of the complexity of known regulatory mechanisms in the inner ear. These mechanisms are tightly regulated temporally and spatially at the transcription, RNA-splicing, mRNA-regulation, and translation levels. Understanding the intricacies of regulatory mechanisms at play in the inner ear will require the use of complementary approaches, and most probably, a combinatorial strategy coupling transcriptomics, proteomics, and epigenomics technologies. We highlight how these data, in conjunction with recent insights into molecular cell transformation, can advance attempts to restore lost hair cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin T Booth
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States.,Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Hela Azaiez
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Israt Jahan
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Richard J H Smith
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Bernd Fritzsch
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States.,Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
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