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Darbellay F, Ramisch A, Lopez-Delisle L, Kosicki M, Rauseo A, Jouini Z, Visel A, Andrey G. Pre-hypertrophic chondrogenic enhancer landscape of limb and axial skeleton development. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4820. [PMID: 38844479 PMCID: PMC11156918 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49203-2] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Chondrocyte differentiation controls skeleton development and stature. Here we provide a comprehensive map of chondrocyte-specific enhancers and show that they provide a mechanistic framework through which non-coding genetic variants can influence skeletal development and human stature. Working with fetal chondrocytes isolated from mice bearing a Col2a1 fluorescent regulatory sensor, we identify 780 genes and 2'704 putative enhancers specifically active in chondrocytes using a combination of RNA-seq, ATAC-seq and H3K27ac ChIP-seq. Most of these enhancers (74%) show pan-chondrogenic activity, with smaller populations being restricted to limb (18%) or trunk (8%) chondrocytes only. Notably, genetic variations overlapping these enhancers better explain height differences than those overlapping non-chondrogenic enhancers. Finally, targeted deletions of identified enhancers at the Fgfr3, Col2a1, Hhip and, Nkx3-2 loci confirm their role in regulating cognate genes. This enhancer map provides a framework for understanding how genes and non-coding variations influence bone development and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Darbellay
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva (iGE3), University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Anna Ramisch
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lucille Lopez-Delisle
- School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Kosicki
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Antonella Rauseo
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva (iGE3), University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Zahra Jouini
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva (iGE3), University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Axel Visel
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- School of Natural Sciences, University of California, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
| | - Guillaume Andrey
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva (iGE3), University of Geneva, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Chatzi D, Kyriakoudi SA, Dermitzakis I, Manthou ME, Meditskou S, Theotokis P. Clinical and Genetic Correlation in Neurocristopathies: Bridging a Precision Medicine Gap. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2223. [PMID: 38673496 PMCID: PMC11050951 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082223] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurocristopathies (NCPs) encompass a spectrum of disorders arising from issues during the formation and migration of neural crest cells (NCCs). NCCs undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and upon key developmental gene deregulation, fetuses and neonates are prone to exhibit diverse manifestations depending on the affected area. These conditions are generally rare and often have a genetic basis, with many following Mendelian inheritance patterns, thus making them perfect candidates for precision medicine. Examples include cranial NCPs, like Goldenhar syndrome and Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome; cardiac-vagal NCPs, such as DiGeorge syndrome; truncal NCPs, like congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and Waardenburg syndrome; and enteric NCPs, such as Hirschsprung disease. Additionally, NCCs' migratory and differentiating nature makes their derivatives prone to tumors, with various cancer types categorized based on their NCC origin. Representative examples include schwannomas and pheochromocytomas. This review summarizes current knowledge of diseases arising from defects in NCCs' specification and highlights the potential of precision medicine to remedy a clinical phenotype by targeting the genotype, particularly important given that those affected are primarily infants and young children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Paschalis Theotokis
- Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.C.); (S.A.K.); (I.D.); (M.E.M.); (S.M.)
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3
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Stojceski F, Buetti-Dinh A, Stoddart MJ, Danani A, Della Bella E, Grasso G. Influence of dexamethasone on the interaction between glucocorticoid receptor and SOX9: A molecular dynamics study. J Mol Graph Model 2023; 125:108587. [PMID: 37579519 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2023.108587] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a nuclear receptor that controls critical biological processes by regulating the transcription of specific genes. GR transcriptional activity is modulated by a series of ligands and coenzymes, where a ligand can act as an agonist or antagonist. GR agonists, such as the glucocorticoids dexamethasone (DEX) and prednisolone, are widely prescribed to patients with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. DEX is also used to induce osteogenic differentiation in vitro. Recently, it has been highlighted that DEX induces changes in the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stromal cells by downregulating the transcription factor SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) and upregulating the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARG). SOX9 is fundamental in the control of chondrogenesis, but also in osteogenesis by acting as a dominant-negative of RUNX2. Many processes remain to be clarified during cell fate determination, such as the interplay between the key transcription factors. The main objective pursued by this work is to shed light on the interaction between GR and SOX9 in the presence and absence of DEX at an atomic level of resolution using molecular dynamics simulations. The outcome of this research could help the understanding of possible molecular interactions between GR and SOX9 and their role in the determination of cell fate. The results highlight the key residues at the interface between GR and SOX9 involved in the complexation process and shed light on the mechanism through which DEX modulates GR-SOX9 binding and exerts its biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Stojceski
- Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence USI-SUPSI Polo universitario Lugano - Campus Est, Via la Santa 1, 6962, Lugano-Viganello, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Buetti-Dinh
- Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence USI-SUPSI Polo universitario Lugano - Campus Est, Via la Santa 1, 6962, Lugano-Viganello, Switzerland
| | - Martin J Stoddart
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270, Davos Platz, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Danani
- Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence USI-SUPSI Polo universitario Lugano - Campus Est, Via la Santa 1, 6962, Lugano-Viganello, Switzerland
| | - Elena Della Bella
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270, Davos Platz, Switzerland.
| | - Gianvito Grasso
- Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence USI-SUPSI Polo universitario Lugano - Campus Est, Via la Santa 1, 6962, Lugano-Viganello, Switzerland.
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Stüfchen I, Beyer F, Staebler S, Fischer S, Kappelmann M, Beckervordersandforth R, Bosserhoff AK. Sox9 regulates melanocytic fate decision of adult hair follicle stem cells. iScience 2023; 26:106919. [PMID: 37283806 PMCID: PMC10239701 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106919] [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: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The bulge of hair follicles harbors Nestin+ (neural crest like) stem cells, which exhibit the potential to generate various cell types including melanocytes. In this study, we aimed to determine the role of Sox9, an important regulator during neural crest development, in melanocytic differentiation of those adult Nestin+ cells. Immunohistochemical analysis after conditional Sox9 deletion in Nestin+ cells of adult mice revealed that Sox9 is crucial for melanocytic differentiation of these cells and that Sox9 acts as a fate determinant between melanocytic and glial fate. A deeper understanding of factors that regulate fate decision, proliferation and differentiation of these stem cells provides new aspects to melanoma research as melanoma cells share many similarities with neural crest cells. In summary, we here show the important role of Sox9 in melanocytic versus glial fate decision of Nestin+ stem cells in the skin of adult mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Stüfchen
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Felix Beyer
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Staebler
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefan Fischer
- Faculty of Computer Science, Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Deggendorf, Germany
| | - Melanie Kappelmann
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Faculty of Computer Science, Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Deggendorf, Germany
| | | | - Anja K. Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Zhang X, Li J, Chen S, Yang N, Zheng J. Overview of Avian Sex Reversal. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098284. [PMID: 37175998 PMCID: PMC10179413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination and differentiation are processes by which a bipotential gonad adopts either a testicular or ovarian cell fate, and secondary sexual characteristics adopt either male or female developmental patterns. In birds, although genetic factors control the sex determination program, sex differentiation is sensitive to hormones, which can induce sex reversal when disturbed. Although these sex-reversed birds can form phenotypes opposite to their genotypes, none can experience complete sex reversal or produce offspring under natural conditions. Promising evidence indicates that the incomplete sex reversal is associated with cell autonomous sex identity (CASI) of avian cells, which is controlled by genetic factors. However, studies cannot clearly describe the regulatory mechanism of avian CASI and sex development at present, and these factors require further exploration. In spite of this, the abundant findings of avian sex research have provided theoretical bases for the progress of gender control technologies, which are being improved through interdisciplinary co-operation and will ultimately be employed in poultry production. In this review, we provide an overview of avian sex determination and differentiation and comprehensively summarize the research progress on sex reversal in birds, especially chickens. Importantly, we describe key issues faced by applying gender control systems in poultry production and chronologically summarize the development of avian sex control methods. In conclusion, this review provides unique perspectives for avian sex studies and helps scientists develop more advanced systems for sex regulation in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuan Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianbo Li
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sirui Chen
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiangxia Zheng
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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Chen H, Chen X, Zeng F, Fu A, Huang M. Prognostic value of SOX9 in cervical cancer: Bioinformatics and experimental approaches. Front Genet 2022; 13:939328. [PMID: 36003340 PMCID: PMC9394184 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.939328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Among gynecological cancers, cervical cancer is a common malignancy and remains the leading cause of cancer-related death for women. However, the exact molecular pathogenesis of cervical cancer is not known. Hence, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cervical cancer pathogenesis will aid in the development of effective treatment modalities. In this research, we attempted to discern candidate biomarkers for cervical cancer by using multiple bioinformatics approaches. First, we performed differential expression analysis based on cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database, then used differentially expressed genes for weighted gene co-expression network construction to find the most relevant gene module for cervical cancer. Next, the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were performed on the module genes, followed by using protein–protein interaction network analysis and Cytoscape to find the key gene. Finally, we validated the key gene by using multiple online sites and experimental methods. Through weighted gene co-expression network analysis, we found the turquoise module was the highest correlated module with cervical cancer diagnosis. The biological process of the module genes focused on cell proliferation, cell adhesion, and protein binding processes, while the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway of the module significantly enriched pathways related to cancer and cell circle. Among the module genes, SOX9 was identified as the hub gene, and its expression was associated with cervical cancer prognosis. We found the expression of SOX9 correlates with cancer-associated fibroblast immune infiltration in immune cells by Timer2.0. Furthermore, cancer-associated fibroblast infiltration is linked to cervical cancer patients’ prognosis. Compared to those in normal adjacent, immunohistochemical and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) showed that the protein and mRNA expression of SOX9 in cervical cancer were higher. Therefore, the SOX9 gene acts as an oncogene in cervical cancer, interactive with immune infiltration of cancer-associated fibroblasts, thereby affecting the prognosis of patients with cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan China
| | - Xupeng Chen
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan China
| | - Fanhua Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan China
| | - Aizhen Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Meiyuan Huang
- Department of Pathology, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, Hunan China
- *Correspondence: Meiyuan Huang,
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Gomez-Picos P, Ovens K, Eames BF. Limb Mesoderm and Head Ectomesenchyme Both Express a Core Transcriptional Program During Chondrocyte Differentiation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:876825. [PMID: 35784462 PMCID: PMC9247276 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.876825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To explain how cartilage appeared in different parts of the vertebrate body at discrete times during evolution, we hypothesize that different embryonic populations co-opted expression of a core gene regulatory network (GRN) driving chondrocyte differentiation. To test this hypothesis, laser-capture microdissection coupled with RNA-seq was used to reveal chondrocyte transcriptomes in the developing chick humerus and ceratobranchial, which are mesoderm- and neural crest-derived, respectively. During endochondral ossification, two general types of chondrocytes differentiate. Immature chondrocytes (IMM) represent the early stages of cartilage differentiation, while mature chondrocytes (MAT) undergo additional stages of differentiation, including hypertrophy and stimulating matrix mineralization and degradation. Venn diagram analyses generally revealed a high degree of conservation between chondrocyte transcriptomes of the limb and head, including SOX9, COL2A1, and ACAN expression. Typical maturation genes, such as COL10A1, IBSP, and SPP1, were upregulated in MAT compared to IMM in both limb and head chondrocytes. Gene co-expression network (GCN) analyses of limb and head chondrocyte transcriptomes estimated the core GRN governing cartilage differentiation. Two discrete portions of the GCN contained genes that were differentially expressed in limb or head chondrocytes, but these genes were enriched for biological processes related to limb/forelimb morphogenesis or neural crest-dependent processes, respectively, perhaps simply reflecting the embryonic origin of the cells. A core GRN driving cartilage differentiation in limb and head was revealed that included typical chondrocyte differentiation and maturation markers, as well as putative novel “chondrocyte” genes. Conservation of a core transcriptional program during chondrocyte differentiation in both the limb and head suggest that the same core GRN was co-opted when cartilage appeared in different regions of the skeleton during vertebrate evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patsy Gomez-Picos
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Katie Ovens
- Department of Computer Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - B. Frank Eames
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- *Correspondence: B. Frank Eames,
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Chen C, Zhou S, Lian Z, Jiang J, Gao X, Hu C, Zuo Q, Zhang Y, Chen G, Jin K, Li B. Tle4z1 Facilitate the Male Sexual Differentiation of Chicken Embryos. Front Physiol 2022; 13:856980. [PMID: 35464085 PMCID: PMC9022655 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.856980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sex differentiation is a complex and precisely regulated process by multiple genes in chicken. However, it is still unclear on the key genes of sex differentiation. Objective To explore the function of Tle4z1 screened by RNA-seq sequencing on sex differentiation during the development of chicken embryos. Methods Tle4z1 was differentially expressed from the RNA-seq of ESCs and PGCs in male and female chickens. Then, we established an effective method to overexpression or knocking down the expression of Tle4z1 in ovo and in vitro, respectively. Histomorphological observation, qRT-PCR and ELISA were applied to detect the function of Tle4z1 in the process of male sex differentiation by injecting vectors into embryos at day 0. Results It showed that Tle4z1 has significant male preference in embryonic day 4.5, such phenomenon persisted during the growth period of chicken embryos. Morphological observation results showed that the gonads on both sides of genetic male (ZZ) embryos with Tle4z1 knocking down developed asymmetrically, the gonadal cortex became thicker showing the typical characteristics of genetic female (ZW) gonads. Furthermore, the expression of Cyp19a1, which dominates female differentiation, was significantly increased, while the expression of male marker genes Dmrt1, Sox9, WT1 and AR was significantly downregulated. In addition, the concentration of testosterone also significantly decreased, which was positively correlated with the expression of Tle4z1 (P < 0.01). Conversely, the ZW embryo showed defeminized development when Tle4z1 was overexpressed. Conclusion We prove that the Tle4z1 is a novel gene through the male sexual differentiation via gene regulation process and synthesis of testosterone, which construct the basis for understanding the molecular mechanism of sex differentiation in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Shujian Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ziyi Lian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jingyi Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Cai Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qisheng Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yani Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Guohong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kai Jin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Kai Jin,
| | - Bichun Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding Reproduction and Molecular Design for Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
- Bichun Li,
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Chen H, He Y, Wen X, Shao S, Liu Y, Wang J. SOX9: Advances in Gynecological Malignancies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:768264. [PMID: 34881182 PMCID: PMC8645898 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.768264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors of the SOX family were first discovered in mammals in 1990. The sex-determining region Y box 9 belongs to the SOX transcription factor family. It plays an important role in inducing tissue and cell morphogenesis, survival, and many developmental processes. Furthermore, it has been shown to be an oncogene in many tumors. Gynecological malignancies are tumors that occur in the female reproductive system and seriously threaten the lives of patients. Common gynecological malignancies include ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer. So far, the molecular mechanisms related to the incidence and development of gynecological malignancies remain unclear. This makes it particularly important to discover their common causative molecule and thus provide an effective therapeutic target. In recent years, studies have found that multiple mechanisms are involved in regulating the expression of the sex-determining region Y box 9, leading to the occurrence and development of gynecological malignancies. In this review, we discuss the prognostic value of SOX9 expression and the potential of targeting SOX9 for gynecological malignancy treatment. We also discuss progress regarding the role of SOX9 in gynecological malignancy pathogenesis through its mediation of important mechanisms, including tumor initiation and proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, chemoresistance, and stem cell maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Yujie He
- Designated Ward, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Xiangping Wen
- Department of Operation, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Shihong Shao
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yujie Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Jinjin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhu Zhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou, China
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Hui HB, Xiao L, Sun W, Zhou YJ, Zhang HY, Ge CT. Sox9 is indispensable for testis differentiation in the red-eared slider turtle, a reptile with temperature-dependent sex determination. Zool Res 2021; 42:721-725. [PMID: 34581032 PMCID: PMC8645876 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2021.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Bo Hui
- Institute of Animal Sex and Development, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315100, China
| | - Ling Xiao
- Institute of Animal Sex and Development, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315100, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Institute of Animal Sex and Development, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315100, China
| | - Ying-Jie Zhou
- Institute of Animal Sex and Development, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315100, China
| | - Hai-Yan Zhang
- Institute of Animal Sex and Development, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315100, China
| | - Chu-Tian Ge
- Institute of Animal Sex and Development, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315100, China. E-mail:
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11
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Migale R, Neumann M, Lovell-Badge R. Long-Range Regulation of Key Sex Determination Genes. Sex Dev 2021; 15:360-380. [PMID: 34753143 DOI: 10.1159/000519891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of sexually dimorphic gonads is a unique process that starts with the specification of the bipotential genital ridges and culminates with the development of fully differentiated ovaries and testes in females and males, respectively. Research on sex determination has been mostly focused on the identification of sex determination genes, the majority of which encode for proteins and specifically transcription factors such as SOX9 in the testes and FOXL2 in the ovaries. Our understanding of which factors may be critical for sex determination have benefited from the study of human disorders of sex development (DSD) and animal models, such as the mouse and the goat, as these often replicate the same phenotypes observed in humans when mutations or chromosomic rearrangements arise in protein-coding genes. Despite the advances made so far in explaining the role of key factors such as SRY, SOX9, and FOXL2 and the genes they control, what may regulate these factors upstream is not entirely understood, often resulting in the inability to correctly diagnose DSD patients. The role of non-coding DNA, which represents 98% of the human genome, in sex determination has only recently begun to be fully appreciated. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the long-range regulation of 2 important sex determination genes, SOX9 and FOXL2, and discuss the challenges that lie ahead and the many avenues of research yet to be explored in the sex determination field.
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12
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Poulat F. Non-Coding Genome, Transcription Factors, and Sex Determination. Sex Dev 2021; 15:295-307. [PMID: 34727549 DOI: 10.1159/000519725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, gonadal sex determination is the process by which transcription factors drive the choice between the testicular and ovarian identity of undifferentiated somatic progenitors through activation of 2 different transcriptional programs. Studies in animal models suggest that sex determination always involves sex-specific transcription factors that activate or repress sex-specific genes. These transcription factors control their target genes by recognizing their regulatory elements in the non-coding genome and their binding motifs within their DNA sequence. In the last 20 years, the development of genomic approaches that allow identifying all the genomic targets of a transcription factor in eukaryotic cells gave the opportunity to globally understand the function of the nuclear proteins that control complex genetic programs. Here, the major transcription factors involved in male and female vertebrate sex determination and the genomic profiling data of mouse gonads that contributed to deciphering their transcriptional regulation role will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Poulat
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UMR9002 University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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13
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Atlas G, Sreenivasan R, Sinclair A. Targeting the Non-Coding Genome for the Diagnosis of Disorders of Sex Development. Sex Dev 2021; 15:392-410. [PMID: 34634785 DOI: 10.1159/000519238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of sex development (DSD) are a complex group of conditions with highly variable clinical phenotypes, most often caused by failure of gonadal development. DSD are estimated to occur in around 1.7% of all live births. Whilst the understanding of genes involved in gonad development has increased exponentially, approximately 50% of patients with a DSD remain without a genetic diagnosis, possibly implicating non-coding genomic regions instead. Here, we review how variants in the non-coding genome of DSD patients can be identified using techniques such as array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) to detect copy number variants (CNVs), and more recently, whole genome sequencing (WGS). Once a CNV in a patient's non-coding genome is identified, putative regulatory elements such as enhancers need to be determined within these vast genomic regions. We will review the available online tools and databases that can be used to refine regions with potential enhancer activity based on chromosomal accessibility, histone modifications, transcription factor binding site analysis, chromatin conformation, and disease association. We will also review the current in vitro and in vivo techniques available to demonstrate the functionality of the identified enhancers. The review concludes with a clinical update on the enhancers linked to DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabby Atlas
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, .,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Rajini Sreenivasan
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Sinclair
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Conserved and species-specific chromatin remodeling and regulatory dynamics during mouse and chicken limb bud development. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5685. [PMID: 34584102 PMCID: PMC8479071 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25935-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromatin remodeling and genomic alterations impact spatio-temporal regulation of gene expression, which is central to embryonic development. The analysis of mouse and chicken limb development provides important insights into the morphoregulatory mechanisms, however little is known about the regulatory differences underlying their morphological divergence. Here, we identify the underlying shared and species-specific epigenomic and genomic variations. In mouse forelimb buds, we observe striking synchrony between the temporal dynamics of chromatin accessibility and gene expression, while their divergence in chicken wing buds uncovers species-specific regulatory heterochrony. In silico mapping of transcription factor binding sites and computational footprinting establishes the developmental time-restricted transcription factor-DNA interactions. Finally, the construction of target gene networks for HAND2 and GLI3 transcriptional regulators reveals both conserved and species-specific interactions. Our analysis reveals the impact of genome evolution on the regulatory interactions orchestrating vertebrate limb bud morphogenesis and provides a molecular framework for comparative Evo-Devo studies. The vertebrate limb bud is a paradigm to uncover the fundamental mechanisms that govern embryogenesis and evolutionary diversification. Here the authors compare mouse and chicken limb bud development to study the impact of genome evolution on conserved and divergent gene regulatory interactions.
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Estermann MA, Major AT, Smith CA. Genetic Regulation of Avian Testis Development. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1459. [PMID: 34573441 PMCID: PMC8470383 DOI: 10.3390/genes12091459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As in other vertebrates, avian testes are the site of spermatogenesis and androgen production. The paired testes of birds differentiate during embryogenesis, first marked by the development of pre-Sertoli cells in the gonadal primordium and their condensation into seminiferous cords. Germ cells become enclosed in these cords and enter mitotic arrest, while steroidogenic Leydig cells subsequently differentiate around the cords. This review describes our current understanding of avian testis development at the cell biology and genetic levels. Most of this knowledge has come from studies on the chicken embryo, though other species are increasingly being examined. In chicken, testis development is governed by the Z-chromosome-linked DMRT1 gene, which directly or indirectly activates the male factors, HEMGN, SOX9 and AMH. Recent single cell RNA-seq has defined cell lineage specification during chicken testis development, while comparative studies point to deep conservation of avian testis formation. Lastly, we identify areas of future research on the genetics of avian testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Craig Allen Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (M.A.E.); (A.T.M.)
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16
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Vining B, Ming Z, Bagheri-Fam S, Harley V. Diverse Regulation but Conserved Function: SOX9 in Vertebrate Sex Determination. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12040486. [PMID: 33810596 PMCID: PMC8066042 DOI: 10.3390/genes12040486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex determination occurs early during embryogenesis among vertebrates. It involves the differentiation of the bipotential gonad to ovaries or testes by a fascinating diversity of molecular switches. In most mammals, the switch is SRY (sex determining region Y); in other vertebrates it could be one of a variety of genes including Dmrt1 or dmy. Downstream of the switch gene, SOX9 upregulation is a central event in testes development, controlled by gonad-specific enhancers across the 2 Mb SOX9 locus. SOX9 is a ‘hub’ gene of gonadal development, regulated positively in males and negatively in females. Despite this diversity, SOX9 protein sequence and function among vertebrates remains highly conserved. This article explores the cellular, morphological, and genetic mechanisms initiated by SOX9 for male gonad differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Vining
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia; (B.V.); (Z.M.); (S.B.-F.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Zhenhua Ming
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia; (B.V.); (Z.M.); (S.B.-F.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Stefan Bagheri-Fam
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia; (B.V.); (Z.M.); (S.B.-F.)
| | - Vincent Harley
- Sex Development Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia; (B.V.); (Z.M.); (S.B.-F.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-8572-2527
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18
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Abstract
Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) is a powerful tool to identify binding profiles of transcriptional regulators and chromatin regulators as well as histone modification patterns in a genome-wide manner. ChIP-seq consists of five major steps: (1) preparation of cells and chromatin, (2) ChIP, (3) ChIP-seq library construction, (4) sequencing of ChIP DNA with a next-generation sequencer (NGS), and (5) computational analysis of sequence data. Recent ChIP-seq studies in skeletal tissues enable us to understand the modes of action of key skeletal regulators, functional interaction among the enhancers bound by the regulators, the complex nature of regulatory inputs, and thereby the gene regulatory landscape in skeletal development. Here we describe a ChIP-seq protocol that we have employed in our studies, with particular focus on chromatin preparation and subsequent ChIP in skeletal cells, including chondrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Yamakawa
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hironori Hojo
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Ohba
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.
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19
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Estermann MA, Major AT, Smith CA. Gonadal Sex Differentiation: Supporting Versus Steroidogenic Cell Lineage Specification in Mammals and Birds. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:616387. [PMID: 33392204 PMCID: PMC7775416 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.616387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The gonads of vertebrate embryos are unique among organs because they have a developmental choice; ovary or testis formation. Given the importance of proper gonad formation for sexual development and reproduction, considerable research has been conducted over the years to elucidate the genetic and cellular mechanisms of gonad formation and sexual differentiation. While the molecular trigger for gonadal sex differentiation into ovary of testis can vary among vertebrates, from egg temperature to sex-chromosome linked master genes, the downstream molecular pathways are largely conserved. The cell biology of gonadal formation and differentiation has long thought to also be conserved. However, recent discoveries point to divergent mechanisms of gonad formation, at least among birds and mammals. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of cell lineage allocation during gonadal sex differentiation in the mouse model, focusing on the key supporting and steroidogenic cells and drawing on recent insights provided by single cell RNA-sequencing. We compare this data with emerging information in the chicken model. We highlight surprising differences in cell lineage specification between species and identify gaps in our current understanding of the cell biology underlying gonadogenesis.
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20
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Motch Perrine SM, Wu M, Holmes G, Bjork BC, Jabs EW, Richtsmeier JT. Phenotypes, Developmental Basis, and Genetics of Pierre Robin Complex. J Dev Biol 2020; 8:E30. [PMID: 33291480 PMCID: PMC7768358 DOI: 10.3390/jdb8040030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The phenotype currently accepted as Pierre Robin syndrome/sequence/anomalad/complex (PR) is characterized by mandibular dysmorphology, glossoptosis, respiratory obstruction, and in some cases, cleft palate. A causative sequence of developmental events is hypothesized for PR, but few clear causal relationships between discovered genetic variants, dysregulated gene expression, precise cellular processes, pathogenesis, and PR-associated anomalies are documented. This review presents the current understanding of PR phenotypes, the proposed pathogenetic processes underlying them, select genes associated with PR, and available animal models that could be used to better understand the genetic basis and phenotypic variation of PR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M. Motch Perrine
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (M.W.); (G.H.); (E.W.J.)
| | - Greg Holmes
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (M.W.); (G.H.); (E.W.J.)
| | - Bryan C. Bjork
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA;
| | - Ethylin Wang Jabs
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (M.W.); (G.H.); (E.W.J.)
| | - Joan T. Richtsmeier
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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21
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de Vasconcellos JF, Jackson WM, Dimtchev A, Nesti LJ. A microRNA Signature for Impaired Wound-Healing and Ectopic Bone Formation in Humans. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2020; 102:1891-1899. [PMID: 32858559 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.19.00896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heterotopic ossification (HO) is characterized by the abnormal growth of ectopic bone in soft tissues, frequently occurring within the military population because of extensive orthopaedic combat trauma. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that act as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. We hypothesized that a clinically relevant miRNA signature could be detected in patients following injury that progressed to form HO (HO+) or did not form HO (HO-). METHODS Tissue samples were obtained from injured servicemembers during their initial surgical debridements, and miRNA profiling was performed using a real-time miRNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array. Primary mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPCs) were harvested from debrided traumatized human muscle tissue, and cells were isolated and cultured in vitro. Mimic miRNAs were transfected into MPCs, followed by downstream in vitro analyses. RESULTS The investigation of the miRNA expression profile in the tissue of HO+ compared with HO- patients demonstrated a molecular signature that included the upregulation of miR-1, miR-133a, miR-133b, miR-206, miR-26a, and miR-125b. Transfection of each of these mature miRNAs into MPCs followed by osteogenic induction demonstrated that miR-1, miR-133a, miR-133b, and miR-206 enhanced osteogenic differentiation compared with control treatments. In silico and in vitro analyses identified the transcription factor SOX9 as a candidate downstream target of miR-1 and miR-206 miRNAs. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrated a molecular signature of miRNAs in the soft tissue of wounded servicemembers that was associated with the development of HO, providing novel insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms associated with posttraumatic HO. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaira F de Vasconcellos
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Wesley M Jackson
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alexander Dimtchev
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Leon J Nesti
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland.,Clinical and Experimental Orthopaedics, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
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Biochemical characteristics of the chondrocyte-enriched SNORC protein and its transcriptional regulation by SOX9. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7790. [PMID: 32385306 PMCID: PMC7210984 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64640-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Snorc (Small NOvel Rich in Cartilage) has been identified as a chondrocyte-specific gene in the mouse. Yet little is known about the SNORC protein biochemical properties, and mechanistically how the gene is regulated transcriptionally in a tissue-specific manner. The goals of the present study were to shed light on those important aspects. The chondrocyte nature of Snorc expression was confirmed in mouse and rat tissues, in differentiated (day 7) ATDC5, and in RCS cells where it was constitutive. Topological mapping and biochemical analysis brought experimental evidences that SNORC is a type I protein carrying a chondroitin sulfate (CS) attached to serine 44. The anomalous migration of SNORC on SDS-PAGE was due to its primary polypeptide features, suggesting no additional post-translational modifications apart from the CS glycosaminoglycan. A highly conserved SOX9-binding enhancer located in intron 1 was necessary to drive transcription of Snorc in the mouse, rat, and human. The enhancer was active independently of orientation and whether located in a heterologous promoter or intron. Crispr-mediated inactivation of the enhancer in RCS cells caused reduction of Snorc. Transgenic mice carrying the intronic multimerized enhancer drove high expression of a βGeo reporter in chondrocytes, but not in the hypertrophic zone. Altogether these data confirmed the chondrocyte-specific nature of Snorc and revealed dependency on the intronic enhancer binding of SOX9 for transcription.
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