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Knecht DA, Zeziulia M, Bhavsar MB, Puchkov D, Maier H, Jentsch TJ. LRRC8/VRAC volume-regulated anion channels are crucial for hearing. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107436. [PMID: 38838775 PMCID: PMC11260850 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Hearing crucially depends on cochlear ion homeostasis as evident from deafness elicited by mutations in various genes encoding cation or anion channels and transporters. Ablation of ClC‑K/barttin chloride channels causes deafness by interfering with the positive electrical potential of the endolymph, but roles of other anion channels in the inner ear have not been studied. Here we report the intracochlear distribution of all five LRRC8 subunits of VRAC, a volume-regulated anion channel that transports chloride, metabolites, and drugs such as the ototoxic anti-cancer drug cisplatin, and explore its physiological role by ablating its subunits. Sensory hair cells express all LRRC8 isoforms, whereas only LRRC8A, D and E were found in the potassium-secreting epithelium of the stria vascularis. Cochlear disruption of the essential LRRC8A subunit, or combined ablation of LRRC8D and E, resulted in cochlear degeneration and congenital deafness of Lrrc8a-/- mice. It was associated with a progressive degeneration of the organ of Corti and its innervating spiral ganglion. Like disruption of ClC-K/barttin, loss of VRAC severely reduced the endocochlear potential. However, the mechanism underlying this reduction seems different. Disruption of VRAC, but not ClC-K/barttin, led to an almost complete loss of Kir4.1 (KCNJ10), a strial K+ channel crucial for the generation of the endocochlear potential. The strong downregulation of Kir4.1 might be secondary to a loss of VRAC-mediated transport of metabolites regulating inner ear redox potential such as glutathione. Our study extends the knowledge of the role of cochlear ion transport in hearing and ototoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Knecht
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Berlin, Germany; Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Mariia Zeziulia
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Berlin, Germany; Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin (MDC), Berlin, Germany; Graduate Program of the Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mit B Bhavsar
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Dmytro Puchkov
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Berlin, Germany
| | - Hannes Maier
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all", Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas J Jentsch
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), Berlin, Germany; NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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Bhagavan H, Wei AD, Oliveira LM, Aldinger KA, Ramirez JM. Chronic intermittent hypoxia elicits distinct transcriptomic responses among neurons and oligodendrocytes within the brainstem of mice. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2024; 326:L698-L712. [PMID: 38591125 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00320.2023] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is a prevalent condition characterized by recurrent episodes of oxygen deprivation, linked to respiratory and neurological disorders. Prolonged CIH is known to have adverse effects, including endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired neuronal function. These factors can contribute to serious comorbidities, including metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases. To investigate the molecular impact of CIH, we examined male C57BL/6J mice exposed to CIH for 21 days, comparing with normoxic controls. We used single-nucleus RNA sequencing to comprehensively examine the transcriptomic impact of CIH on key cell classes within the brainstem, specifically excitatory neurons, inhibitory neurons, and oligodendrocytes. These cell classes regulate essential physiological functions, including autonomic tone, cardiovascular control, and respiration. Through analysis of 10,995 nuclei isolated from pontine-medullary tissue, we identified seven major cell classes, further subdivided into 24 clusters. Our findings among these cell classes, revealed significant differential gene expression, underscoring their distinct responses to CIH. Notably, neurons exhibited transcriptional dysregulation of genes associated with synaptic transmission, and structural remodeling. In addition, we found dysregulated genes encoding ion channels and inflammatory response. Concurrently, oligodendrocytes exhibited dysregulated genes associated with oxidative phosphorylation and oxidative stress. Utilizing CellChat network analysis, we uncovered CIH-dependent altered patterns of diffusible intercellular signaling. These insights offer a comprehensive transcriptomic cellular atlas of the pons-medulla and provide a fundamental resource for the analysis of molecular adaptations triggered by CIH.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study on chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) from pons-medulla provides initial insights into the molecular effects on excitatory neurons, inhibitory neurons, and oligodendrocytes, highlighting our unbiased approach, in comparison with earlier studies focusing on single target genes. Our findings reveal that CIH affects cell classes distinctly, and the dysregulated genes in distinct cell classes are associated with synaptic transmission, ion channels, inflammation, oxidative stress, and intercellular signaling, advancing our understanding of CIH-induced molecular responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemalatha Bhagavan
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Aguan D Wei
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Luiz M Oliveira
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Kimberly A Aldinger
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jan-Marino Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
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Zhang X, Shi T, Li J, Wu X, Wu K, Li D, Wang D, Guan J, Wang H. Natural History of KCNQ4 p.G285S Related Hearing Loss, Construction of iPSC and Mouse Model. Laryngoscope 2024; 134:2356-2363. [PMID: 37962101 DOI: 10.1002/lary.31179] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE KCNQ4 is one of the most common disease-causing genes involved in autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss. We previously found that patients with KCNQ4 p.G285S exhibited a much more rapid deterioration in hearing loss than those with other KCNQ4 variants. To determine the rate of hearing loss and assess the disease for further analysis, we performed a long-term follow-up of these patients and generated patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and a mouse model. METHODS Patients with KCNQ4 p.G285S from a five-generation family with hearing loss were followed up from 2005 to 2022. iPSCs were generated by stimulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells from the proband, and their pluripotency was determined. The Kcnq4 p.G286S mouse model was generated using CRISPR/Cas9, and its genotype and phenotype were identified. RESULTS (1) The annual rates of hearing loss at the frequencies of speech were 0.96 dB for the proband and 0.87 dB for his father during the follow-up period, which were faster than patients with other KCNQ4 variants. (2) The patient-derived iPSC line carrying KCNQ4 p.G285S, possessed the capacity of differentiation and pluripotency capacities. (3) Mutant mice with Kcnq4 p.G286S exhibited hearing loss and outer hair cell loss at 1 month of age. CONCLUSION Patients with KCNQ4 p.G285S variant exhibited significantly accelerated progression of hearing loss compared to those with other reported variants. Awareness of the natural history of hearing loss associated with KCNQ4 p.G285S is beneficial for genetic counseling and prognosis. The generation of the iPSCs and mouse model can provide a valuable foundation for further in-depth analyses. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 134:2356-2363, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Zhang
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Shi
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Li
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaonan Wu
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Kaili Wu
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Danyang Li
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Guan
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyang Wang
- Senior Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Otolaryngologic Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Guo Y, Zhu Y, Shen S, Lu N, Zhang J, Chen X, Chen Z. Cloning, characterization, and evolutionary patterns of KCNQ4 genes in anurans. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11311. [PMID: 38654715 PMCID: PMC11036133 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Acoustic communication plays important roles in the survival and reproduction of anurans. The perception and discrimination of conspecific sound signals of anurans were always affected by masking background noise. Previous studies suggested that some frogs evolved the high-frequency hearing to minimize the low-frequency noise. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the high-frequency hearing in anurans have not been well explored. Here, we cloned and obtained the coding regions of a high-frequency hearing-related gene (KCNQ4) from 11 representative anuran species and compared them with orthologous sequences from other four anurans. The sequence characteristics and evolutionary analyses suggested the highly conservation of the KCNQ4 gene in anurans, which supported their functional importance. Branch-specific analysis showed that KCNQ4 genes were under different evolutionary forces in anurans and most anuran lineages showed a generally strong purifying selection. Intriguingly, one significantly positively selected site was identified in the anuran KCNQ4 gene based on FEL model. Positive selection was also found along the common ancestor of Ranidae and Rhacophoridae as well as the ancestral O. tianmuii based on the branch-site analysis, and the positively selected sites identified were involved in or near the N-terminal ion transport and the potassium ion channel functional domain of the KCNQ4 genes. The present study revealed valuable information regarding the KCNQ4 genes in anurans and provided some new insights for the underpinnings of the high-frequency hearing in frogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Guo
- The Observation and Research Field Station of Taihang Mountain Forest Ecosystems of Henan Province, College of Life SciencesHenan Normal UniversityXinxiangChina
| | - Yanjun Zhu
- The Observation and Research Field Station of Taihang Mountain Forest Ecosystems of Henan Province, College of Life SciencesHenan Normal UniversityXinxiangChina
| | - Shiyuan Shen
- The Observation and Research Field Station of Taihang Mountain Forest Ecosystems of Henan Province, College of Life SciencesHenan Normal UniversityXinxiangChina
| | - Ningning Lu
- The Observation and Research Field Station of Taihang Mountain Forest Ecosystems of Henan Province, College of Life SciencesHenan Normal UniversityXinxiangChina
| | - Jie Zhang
- College of FisheriesHenan Normal UniversityXinxiangChina
| | - Xiaohong Chen
- The Observation and Research Field Station of Taihang Mountain Forest Ecosystems of Henan Province, College of Life SciencesHenan Normal UniversityXinxiangChina
| | - Zhuo Chen
- The Observation and Research Field Station of Taihang Mountain Forest Ecosystems of Henan Province, College of Life SciencesHenan Normal UniversityXinxiangChina
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Tsvetkov D, Schleifenbaum J, Wang Y, Kassmann M, Polovitskaya MM, Ali M, Schütze S, Rothe M, Luft FC, Jentsch TJ, Gollasch M. KCNQ5 Controls Perivascular Adipose Tissue-Mediated Vasodilation. Hypertension 2024; 81:561-571. [PMID: 38354270 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.123.21834] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small arteries exhibit resting tone, a partially contracted state that maintains arterial blood pressure. In arterial smooth muscle cells, potassium channels control contraction and relaxation. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) has been shown to exert anticontractile effects on the blood vessels. However, the mechanisms by which PVAT signals small arteries, and their relevance remain largely unknown. We aimed to uncover key molecular components in adipose-vascular coupling. METHODS A wide spectrum of genetic mouse models targeting Kcnq3, Kcnq4, and Kcnq5 genes (Kcnq3-/-, Kcnq4-/-, Kcnq5-/-, Kcnq5dn/dn, Kcnq4-/-/Kcnq5dn/dn, and Kcnq4-/-/Kcnq5-/-), telemetry blood pressure measurements, targeted lipidomics, RNA-Seq profiling, wire-myography, patch-clamp, and sharp-electrode membrane potential measurements was used. RESULTS We show that PVAT causes smooth muscle cell KV7.5 family of voltage-gated potassium (K+) channels to hyperpolarize the membrane potential. This effect relaxes small arteries and regulates blood pressure. Oxygenation of polyunsaturated fats generates oxylipins, a superclass of lipid mediators. We identified numerous oxylipins released by PVAT, which potentiate vasodilatory action in small arteries by opening smooth muscle cell KV7.5 family of voltage-gated potassium (K+) channels. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal a key molecular function of the KV7.5 family of voltage-gated potassium (K+) channels in the adipose-vascular coupling, translating PVAT signals, particularly oxylipins, to the central physiological function of vasoregulation. This novel pathway opens new therapeutic perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Tsvetkov
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, University Medicine Greifswald, Germany (D.T., M.K., M.A., M.G.)
| | - Johanna Schleifenbaum
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany (J.S.)
| | - Yibin Wang
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany (Y.W., F.C.L.)
| | - Mario Kassmann
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, University Medicine Greifswald, Germany (D.T., M.K., M.A., M.G.)
| | - Maya M Polovitskaya
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie, Berlin, Germany (M.M.P., S.S., T.J.J.)
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (M.M.P., S.S., T.J.J.)
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, University Medicine Greifswald, Germany (D.T., M.K., M.A., M.G.)
| | - Sebastian Schütze
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie, Berlin, Germany (M.M.P., S.S., T.J.J.)
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (M.M.P., S.S., T.J.J.)
| | | | - Friedrich C Luft
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany (Y.W., F.C.L.)
| | - Thomas J Jentsch
- Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie, Berlin, Germany (M.M.P., S.S., T.J.J.)
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (M.M.P., S.S., T.J.J.)
- NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany (T.J.J.)
| | - Maik Gollasch
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, University Medicine Greifswald, Germany (D.T., M.K., M.A., M.G.)
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Warren B, Eberl D. What can insects teach us about hearing loss? J Physiol 2024; 602:297-316. [PMID: 38128023 DOI: 10.1113/jp281281] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last three decades, insects have been utilized to provide a deep and fundamental understanding of many human diseases and disorders. Here, we present arguments for insects as models to understand general principles underlying hearing loss. Despite ∼600 million years since the last common ancestor of vertebrates and invertebrates, we share an overwhelming degree of genetic homology particularly with respect to auditory organ development and maintenance. Despite the anatomical differences between human and insect auditory organs, both share physiological principles of operation. We explain why these observations are expected and highlight areas in hearing loss research in which insects can provide insight. We start by briefly introducing the evolutionary journey of auditory organs, the reasons for using insect auditory organs for hearing loss research, and the tools and approaches available in insects. Then, the first half of the review focuses on auditory development and auditory disorders with a genetic cause. The second half analyses the physiological and genetic consequences of ageing and short- and long-term changes as a result of noise exposure. We finish with complex age and noise interactions in auditory systems. In this review, we present some of the evidence and arguments to support the use of insects to study mechanisms and potential treatments for hearing loss in humans. Obviously, insects cannot fully substitute for all aspects of human auditory function and loss of function, although there are many important questions that can be addressed in an animal model for which there are important ethical, practical and experimental advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Warren
- Neurogenetics Group, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Daniel Eberl
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Sinha AK, Lee C, Holt JC. KCNQ2/3 regulates efferent mediated slow excitation of vestibular afferents in mammals. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.30.573731. [PMID: 38260489 PMCID: PMC10802244 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.30.573731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Primary vestibular afferents transmit information from hair cells about head position and movement to the CNS, which is critical for maintaining balance, gaze stability and spatial navigation. The CNS, in turn, modulates hair cells and afferents via the efferent vestibular system (EVS) and its activation of several cholinergic signaling mechanisms. Electrical stimulation of EVS neurons gives rise to three kinetically- and mechanistically-distinct afferent responses including a slow excitation, a fast excitation, and a fast inhibition. EVS-mediated slow excitation is attributed to odd-numbered muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) on the afferent whose activation leads to the closure of a potassium conductance and increased afferent discharge. Likely effector candidates include low-threshold, voltage-gated potassium channels belonging to the KCNQ (Kv7.X) family, which are involved in neuronal excitability across the nervous system and are subject to mAChR modulation. Specifically, KCNQ2/3 heteromeric channels may be the molecular correlates for the M-current, a potassium current that is blocked following the activation of odd-numbered mAChRs. To this end, multiple members of the KCNQ channel family, including KCNQ2 and KCNQ3, are localized to several microdomains within vestibular afferent endings, where they influence afferent excitability and could be targeted by EVS neurons. Additionally, the relative expression of KCNQ subunits appears to vary across the sensory epithelia and among different afferent types. However, it is unclear which KCNQ channel subunits are targeted by mAChR activation and whether that also varies among different afferent classes. Here we show that EVS-mediated slow excitation is blocked and enhanced by the non-selective KCNQ channel blocker XE991 and opener retigabine, respectively. Using KCNQ subunit-selective drugs, we observed that a KCNQ2 blocker blocks the slow response in irregular afferents, while a KCNQ2/3 opener enhances slow responses in regular afferents. The KCNQ2 blockers did not appear to affect resting afferent discharge rates, while KCNQ2/3 or KCNQ2/4 openers decreased afferent excitability. Here, we show pharmacological evidence that KCNQ2/3 subunits are likely targeted by mAChR activation in mammalian vestibular afferents. Additionally, we show that KCNQ3 KO mice have altered resting discharge rate as well as EVS-mediated slow response. These data together suggest that KCNQ channels play a role in slow response and discharge rate of vestibular afferents, which can be modulated by EVS in mammals.
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Choi JS, Ahn YJ, Lee S, Park DJ, Park J, Ha SM, Seo YJ. Role of Kir4.1 Channels in Aminoglycoside-Induced Ototoxicity of Hair Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:4191999. [PMID: 38143588 PMCID: PMC10748730 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4191999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
The Kir4.1 channel, an inwardly rectifying potassium ion (K+) channel, is located in the hair cells of the organ of Corti as well as the intermediate cells of the stria vascularis. The Kir4.1 channel has a crucial role in the generation of endolymphatic potential and maintenance of the resting membrane potential. However, the role and functions of the Kir4.1 channel in the progenitor remain undescribed. To observe the role of Kir4.1 in the progenitor treated with the one-shot ototoxic drugs (kanamycin and furosemide), we set the proper condition in culturing Immortomouse-derived HEI-OC1 cells to express the potassium-related channels well. And also, that was reproduced in mice experiments to show the important role of Kir4.1 in the survival of hair cells after treating the ototoxicity drugs. In our results, when kanamycin and furosemide drugs were cotreated with HEI-OC1 cells, the Kir4.1 channel did not change, but the expression levels of the NKCC1 cotransporter and KCNQ4 channel are decreased. This shows that inward and outward channels were blocked by the two drugs (kanamycin and furosemide). However, noteworthy here is that the expression level of Kir4.1 channel increased when kanamycin was treated alone. This shows that Kir4.1, an inwardly rectifying potassium channel, acts as an outward channel in place of the corresponding channel when the KCNQ4 channel, an outward channel, is blocked. These results suggest that the Kir4.1 channel has a role in maintaining K+ homeostasis in supporting cells, with K+ concentration compensator when the NKCC1 cotransporter and Kv7.4 (KCNQ4) channels are deficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Sil Choi
- Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Ji Ahn
- Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - SuHoon Lee
- Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Jun Park
- Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - JeongEun Park
- Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Mok Ha
- Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joon Seo
- Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hearing loss is the most common sensory deficit and in young children sensorineural hearing loss is most frequently genetic in etiology. Hearing aids and cochlear implant do not restore normal hearing. There is significant research and commercial interest in directly addressing the root cause of hearing loss through gene therapies. This article provides an overview of major barriers to cochlear gene therapy and recent advances in preclinical development of precision treatments of genetic deafness. RECENT FINDINGS Several investigators have recently described successful gene therapies in many common forms of genetic hearing loss in animal models. Elegant strategies that do not target a specific pathogenic variant, such as mini gene replacement and mutation-agnostic RNA interference (RNAi) with engineered replacement, facilitate translation of these findings to development of human therapeutics. Clinical trials for human gene therapies are in active recruitment. SUMMARY Gene therapies for hearing loss are expected to enter clinical trials in the immediate future. To provide referral for appropriate trials and counseling regarding benefits of genetic hearing loss evaluation, specialists serving children with hearing loss such as pediatricians, geneticists, genetic counselors, and otolaryngologists should be acquainted with ongoing developments in precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miles J. Klimara
- Molecular Otolaryngology & Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Richard J.H. Smith
- Molecular Otolaryngology & Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Oh KS, Roh JW, Joo SY, Ryu K, Kim JA, Kim SJ, Jang SH, Koh YI, Kim DH, Kim HY, Choi M, Jung J, Namkung W, Nam JH, Choi JY, Gee HY. Overlooked KCNQ4 variants augment the risk of hearing loss. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:844-859. [PMID: 37009795 PMCID: PMC10167218 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00976-4] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variants of KCNQ4 cause symmetrical, late-onset, progressive, high-frequency-affected hearing loss, which eventually involves all frequencies with age. To understand the contribution of KCNQ4 variants to hearing loss, we analyzed whole-exome and genome sequencing data from patients with hearing loss and individuals whose hearing phenotypes were unknown. In KCNQ4, we identified seven missense variants and one deletion variant in 9 hearing loss patients and 14 missense variants in the Korean population with an unknown hearing loss phenotype. The p.R420W and p.R447W variants were found in both cohorts. To investigate the effects of these variants on KCNQ4 function, we performed whole-cell patch clamping and examined their expression levels. Except for p.G435Afs*61, all KCNQ4 variants exhibited normal expression patterns similar to those of wild-type KCNQ4. The p.R331Q, p.R331W, p.G435Afs*61, and p.S691G variants, which were identified in patients with hearing loss, showed a potassium (K+) current density lower than or similar to that of p.L47P, a previously reported pathogenic variant. The p.S185W and p.R216H variants shifted the activation voltage to hyperpolarized voltages. The channel activity of the p.S185W, p.R216H, p.V672M, and p.S691G KCNQ4 proteins was rescued by the KCNQ activators retigabine or zinc pyrithione, whereas p.G435Afs*61 KCNQ4 proteins were partially rescued by sodium butyrate, a chemical chaperone. Additionally, the structure of the variants predicted using AlphaFold2 showed impaired pore configurations, as did the patch-clamp data. Our findings suggest that KCNQ4 variants may be overlooked in hearing loss that starts in adulthood. Some of these variants are medically treatable; hence, genetic screening for KCNQ4 is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Seok Oh
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Won Roh
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Young Joo
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kunhi Ryu
- Yonsei University College of Pharmacy, Incheon, 21983, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ah Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hyun Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Ik Koh
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Hye Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Youn Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Murim Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinsei Jung
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan Namkung
- Yonsei University College of Pharmacy, Incheon, 21983, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Hyun Nam
- Department of Physiology, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, 38066, Republic of Korea.
- Channelopathy Research Center (CRC), Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeonggi-do, 10326, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Young Choi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Heon Yung Gee
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Nam YS, Choi YM, Lee S, Cho HH. Valproic Acid Inhibits Progressive Hereditary Hearing Loss in a KCNQ4 Variant Model through HDAC1 Suppression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065695. [PMID: 36982769 PMCID: PMC10058529 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic or congenital hearing loss still has no definitive cure. Among genes related to genetic hearing loss, the potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 4 (KCNQ4) is known to play an essential role in maintaining ion homeostasis and regulating hair cell membrane potential. Variants of the KCNQ4 show reductions in the potassium channel activity and were responsible for non-syndromic progressive hearing loss. KCNQ4 has been known to possess a diverse variant. Among those variants, the KCNQ4 p.W276S variant produced greater hair cell loss related to an absence of potassium recycling. Valproic acid (VPA) is an important and commonly used histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor for class I (HDAC1, 2, 3, and 8) and class IIa (HDAC4, 5, 7, and 9). In the current study, systemic injections of VPA attenuated hearing loss and protected the cochlear hair cells from cell death in the KCNQ4 p.W276S mouse model. VPA activated its known downstream target, the survival motor neuron gene, and increased acetylation of histone H4 in the cochlea, demonstrating that VPA treatment directly affects the cochlea. In addition, treatment with VPA increased the KCNQ4 binding with HSP90β by inhibiting HDAC1 activation in HEI-OC1 in an in vitro study. VPA is a candidate drug for inhibiting late-onset progressive hereditary hearing loss from the KCNQ4 p.W276S variant.
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Maamrah B, Pocsai K, Bayasgalan T, Csemer A, Pál B. KCNQ4 potassium channel subunit deletion leads to exaggerated acoustic startle reflex in mice. Neuroreport 2023; 34:232-237. [PMID: 36789839 PMCID: PMC10399928 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001883] [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: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
The potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 4 (KCNQ4) subunit forms channels responsible for M-current, a muscarine-sensitive potassium current regulating neuronal excitability. In contrast to other KCNQ subunits, its expression is restricted to the cochlear outer hair cells, the auditory brainstem and other brainstem nuclei in a great overlap with structures involved in startle reflex. We aimed to show whether startle reflexis affected by the loss of KCNQ4 subunit and whether these alterations are similar to the ones caused by brainstem hyperexcitability. Young adult KCNQ4 knockout mice and wild-type littermates, as well as mice expressing hM3D chemogenetic actuator in the pontine caudal nucleus and neurons innervating it were used for testing acoustic startle. The acoustic startle reflex was significantly increased in knockout mice compared with wild-type littermates. When mice expressing human M3 muscarinic (hM3D) in nuclei related to startle reflex were tested, a similar increase of the first acoustic startle amplitude and a strong habituation of the further responses was demonstrated. We found that the acoustic startle reflex is exaggerated and minimal habituation occurs in KCNQ4 knockout animals. These changes are distinct from the effects of the hyperexcitability of nuclei involved in startle. One can conclude that the exaggerated startle reflex found with the KCNQ4 subunit deletion is the consequence of both the cochlear damage and the changes in neuronal excitability of startle networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baneen Maamrah
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Pocsai
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen
| | - Tsogbadrakh Bayasgalan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Andrea Csemer
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen
| | - Balázs Pál
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen
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Kim KS, Koo HY, Bok J. Alternative splicing in shaping the molecular landscape of the cochlea. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1143428. [PMID: 36936679 PMCID: PMC10018040 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1143428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The cochlea is a complex organ comprising diverse cell types with highly specialized morphology and function. Until now, the molecular underpinnings of its specializations have mostly been studied from a transcriptional perspective, but accumulating evidence points to post-transcriptional regulation as a major source of molecular diversity. Alternative splicing is one of the most prevalent and well-characterized post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Many molecules important for hearing, such as cadherin 23 or harmonin, undergo alternative splicing to produce functionally distinct isoforms. Some isoforms are expressed specifically in the cochlea, while some show differential expression across the various cochlear cell types and anatomical regions. Clinical phenotypes that arise from mutations affecting specific splice variants testify to the functional relevance of these isoforms. All these clues point to an essential role for alternative splicing in shaping the unique molecular landscape of the cochlea. Although the regulatory mechanisms controlling alternative splicing in the cochlea are poorly characterized, there are animal models with defective splicing regulators that demonstrate the importance of RNA-binding proteins in maintaining cochlear function and cell survival. Recent technological breakthroughs offer exciting prospects for overcoming some of the long-standing hurdles that have complicated the analysis of alternative splicing in the cochlea. Efforts toward this end will help clarify how the remarkable diversity of the cochlear transcriptome is both established and maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwan Soo Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hei Yeun Koo
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinwoong Bok
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Jinwoong Bok,
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Emerging mechanisms involving brain Kv7 channel in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 206:115318. [PMID: 36283445 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115318] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension is a prevalent health problem inducing many organ damages. The pathogenesis of hypertension involves a complex integration of different organ systems including the brain. The elevated sympathetic nerve activity is closely related to the etiology of hypertension. Ion channels are critical regulators of neuronal excitability. Several mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to hypothalamic-driven elevated sympathetic activity, including altered ion channel function. Recent findings indicate one of the voltage-gated potassium channels, Kv7 channels (M channels), plays a vital role in regulating cardiovascular-related neurons activity, and the expression of Kv7 channels is downregulated in hypertension. This review highlights recent findings that the Kv7 channels in the brain, blood vessels, and kidneys are emerging targets involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension, suggesting new therapeutic targets for treating drug-resistant, neurogenic hypertension.
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Zhang H, Li H, Lu M, Wang S, Ma X, Wang F, Liu J, Li X, Yang H, Zhang F, Shen H, Buckley NJ, Gamper N, Yamoah EN, Lv P. Repressor element 1-silencing transcription factor deficiency yields profound hearing loss through K v7.4 channel upsurge in auditory neurons and hair cells. eLife 2022; 11:76754. [PMID: 36125121 PMCID: PMC9525063 DOI: 10.7554/elife.76754] [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: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Repressor element 1-silencing transcription factor (REST) is a transcriptional repressor that recognizes neuron-restrictive silencer elements in the mammalian genomes in a tissue- and cell-specific manner. The identity of REST target genes and molecular details of how REST regulates them are emerging. We performed conditional null deletion of Rest (cKO), mainly restricted to murine hair cells (HCs) and auditory neurons (aka spiral ganglion neurons [SGNs]). Null inactivation of full-length REST did not affect the development of normal HCs and SGNs but manifested as progressive hearing loss in adult mice. We found that the inactivation of REST resulted in an increased abundance of Kv7.4 channels at the transcript, protein, and functional levels. Specifically, we found that SGNs and HCs from Rest cKO mice displayed increased Kv7.4 expression and augmented Kv7 currents; SGN’s excitability was also significantly reduced. Administration of a compound with Kv7.4 channel activator activity, fasudil, recapitulated progressive hearing loss in mice. In contrast, inhibition of the Kv7 channels by XE991 rescued the auditory phenotype of Rest cKO mice. Previous studies identified some loss-of-function mutations within the Kv7.4-coding gene, Kcnq4, as a causative factor for progressive hearing loss in mice and humans. Thus, the findings reveal that a critical homeostatic Kv7.4 channel level is required for proper auditory functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiwei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Hongchen Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Mingshun Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Shengnan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Xueya Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Jiaxi Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Haichao Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Haitao Shen
- Laboratory of Pathology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Noel J Buckley
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nikita Gamper
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ebenezer N Yamoah
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, United States
| | - Ping Lv
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
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16
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Cui C, Wang D, Huang B, Wang F, Chen Y, Lv J, Zhang L, Han L, Liu D, Chen ZY, Li GL, Li H, Shu Y. Precise detection of CRISPR-Cas9 editing in hair cells in the treatment of autosomal dominant hearing loss. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:400-412. [PMID: 36035752 PMCID: PMC9386031 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy would benefit from the effective editing of targeted cells with CRISPR-Cas9 tools. However, it is difficult to precisely assess the editing performance in vivo because the tissues contain many non-targeted cells, which is one of the major barriers to clinical translation. Here, in the Atoh1-GFP;Kcnq4 +/G229D mice, recapitulating a novel mutation we identified in a hereditary hearing loss pedigree, the high-efficiency editing of CRISPR-Cas9 in hair cells (34.10% on average) was precisely detected by sorting out labeled cells compared with only 1.45% efficiency in the whole cochlear tissue. After injection of the developed AAV_SaCas9-KKH_sgRNA agents, the Kcnq4 +/G229D mice showed significantly lower auditory brainstem response (ABR) and distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) thresholds, shorter ABR wave I latencies, higher ABR wave I amplitudes, increased number of surviving outer hair cells (OHCs), and more hyperpolarized resting membrane potentials of OHCs. These findings provide an innovative approach to accurately assess the underestimated editing efficiency of CRISPR-Cas9 in vivo and offer a promising strategy for the treatment of KCNQ4-related deafness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Cui
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Daqi Wang
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Bowei Huang
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Fang Wang
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jun Lv
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Luping Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Nantong University, Nantong 226006, China
| | - Lei Han
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Dong Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong Laboratory of Development and Diseases, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Zheng-Yi Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology and Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles St., Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Geng-Lin Li
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Huawei Li
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yilai Shu
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- Corresponding author Yilai Shu, ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China.
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Homma K. The Pathological Mechanisms of Hearing Loss Caused by KCNQ1 and KCNQ4 Variants. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092254. [PMID: 36140355 PMCID: PMC9496569 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Deafness-associated genes KCNQ1 (also associated with heart diseases) and KCNQ4 (only associated with hearing loss) encode the homotetrameric voltage-gated potassium ion channels Kv7.1 and Kv7.4, respectively. To date, over 700 KCNQ1 and over 70 KCNQ4 variants have been identified in patients. The vast majority of these variants are inherited dominantly, and their pathogenicity is often explained by dominant-negative inhibition or haploinsufficiency. Our recent study unexpectedly identified cell-death-inducing cytotoxicity in several Kv7.1 and Kv7.4 variants. Elucidation of this cytotoxicity mechanism and identification of its modifiers (drugs) have great potential for aiding the development of a novel pharmacological strategy against many pathogenic KCNQ variants. The purpose of this review is to disseminate this emerging pathological role of Kv7 variants and to underscore the importance of experimentally characterizing disease-associated variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuaki Homma
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; ; Tel.: +1-312-503-5344
- The Hugh Knowles Center for Clinical and Basic Science in Hearing and Its Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60608, USA
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Zheng H, Yan X, Li G, Lin H, Deng S, Zhuang W, Yao F, Lu Y, Xia X, Yuan H, Jin L, Yan Z. Proactive functional classification of all possible missense single-nucleotide variants in KCNQ4. Genome Res 2022; 32:1573-1584. [PMID: 35760561 PMCID: PMC9435748 DOI: 10.1101/gr.276562.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Clinical exome sequencing has yielded extensive disease-related missense single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) of uncertain significance, leading to diagnostic uncertainty. KCNQ4 is one of the most commonly responsible genes for autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss. According to the gnomAD cohort, approximately one in 100 people harbors missense variants in KCNQ4 (missense variants with minor allele frequency > 0.1% were excluded), but most are of unknown consequence. To prospectively characterize the function of all 4085 possible missense SNVs of human KCNQ4, we recorded the whole-cell currents using the patch-clamp technique and categorized 1068 missense SNVs as loss of function, as well as 728 loss-of-function SNVs located in the transmembrane domains. Further, to mimic the heterozygous condition in Deafness nonsyndromic autosomal dominant 2 (DFNA2) patients caused by KCNQ4 variants, we coexpressed loss-of-function variants with wild-type KCNQ4 and found 516 variants showed impaired or only partially rescued heterogeneous channel function. Overall, our functional classification is highly concordant with the auditory phenotypes in Kcnq4 mutant mice and the assessments of pathogenicity in clinical variant interpretations. Taken together, our results provide strong functional evidence to support the pathogenicity classification of newly discovered KCNQ4 missense variants in clinical genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglan Zheng
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Xinhao Yan
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Guanluan Li
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Hengwei Lin
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Siqi Deng
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Wenhui Zhuang
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Fuqiang Yao
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yu Lu
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xin Xia
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Huijun Yuan
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Li Jin
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhiqiang Yan
- Human Phenome Institute, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
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19
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Peixoto Pinheiro B, Müller M, Bös M, Guezguez J, Burnet M, Tornincasa M, Rizzetto R, Rolland JF, Liberati C, Lohmer S, Adel Y, Löwenheim H. A potassium channel agonist protects hearing function and promotes outer hair cell survival in a mouse model for age-related hearing loss. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:595. [PMID: 35817766 PMCID: PMC9273644 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04915-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most common sensory impairment mainly caused by degeneration of sensory hair cells in the cochlea with no causal medical treatment available. Auditory function and sensory hair cell survival critically depend on the Kv7.4 (KCNQ4) channel, a voltage-gated potassium channel expressed in outer hair cells (OHCs), with its impaired function or reduced activity previously associated with ARHL. Here, we investigated the effect of a potent small-molecule Kv7.4 agonist on ARHL in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. For the first time in vivo, we show that Kv7.4 activation can significantly reduce age-related threshold shifts of auditory brainstem responses as well as OHC loss in the SAMP8 model. Pharmacological activation of Kv7.4 thus holds great potential as a therapeutic approach for ARHL as well as other hearing impairments related to Kv7.4 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Peixoto Pinheiro
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marcus Müller
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Bös
- Acousia Therapeutics, 72070 Tübingen, Germany
| | | | | | - Mara Tornincasa
- grid.427692.c0000 0004 1794 5078Axxam, Bresso, 20091 Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Chiara Liberati
- grid.427692.c0000 0004 1794 5078Axxam, Bresso, 20091 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefan Lohmer
- grid.427692.c0000 0004 1794 5078Axxam, Bresso, 20091 Milan, Italy
| | - Youssef Adel
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hubert Löwenheim
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
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20
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Frampton DJA, Choudhury K, Nikesjö J, Delemotte L, Liin SI. Subtype-specific responses of hKv7.4 and hKv7.5 channels to polyunsaturated fatty acids reveal an unconventional modulatory site and mechanism. eLife 2022; 11:77672. [PMID: 35642964 PMCID: PMC9159753 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The KV7.4 and KV7.5 subtypes of voltage-gated potassium channels play a role in important physiological processes such as sound amplification in the cochlea and adjusting vascular smooth muscle tone. Therefore, the mechanisms that regulate KV7.4 and KV7.5 channel function are of interest. Here, we study the effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on human KV7.4 and KV7.5 channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes. We report that PUFAs facilitate activation of hKV7.5 by shifting the V50 of the conductance versus voltage (G(V)) curve toward more negative voltages. This response depends on the head group charge, as an uncharged PUFA analogue has no effect and a positively charged PUFA analogue induces positive V50 shifts. In contrast, PUFAs inhibit activation of hKV7.4 by shifting V50 toward more positive voltages. No effect on V50 of hKV7.4 is observed by an uncharged or a positively charged PUFA analogue. Thus, the hKV7.5 channel's response to PUFAs is analogous to the one previously observed in hKV7.1-7.3 channels, whereas the hKV7.4 channel response is opposite, revealing subtype-specific responses to PUFAs. We identify a unique inner PUFA interaction site in the voltage-sensing domain of hKV7.4 underlying the PUFA response, revealing an unconventional mechanism of modulation of hKV7.4 by PUFAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damon J A Frampton
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Koushik Choudhury
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Johan Nikesjö
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lucie Delemotte
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Sara I Liin
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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21
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Cui C, Zhang L, Qian F, Chen Y, Huang B, Wang F, Wang D, Lv J, Wang X, Yan Z, Guo L, Li GL, Shu Y, Liu D, Li H. A humanized murine model, demonstrating dominant progressive hearing loss caused by a novel KCNQ4 mutation (p.G228D) from a large Chinese family. Clin Genet 2022; 102:149-154. [PMID: 35599357 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenic variants in KCNQ4 cause DFNA2 nonsyndromic hearing loss. However, the understanding of genotype-phenotype correlations between KCNQ4 and hearing is limited. Here, we identified a novel KCNQ4 mutation p.G228D from a Chinese family, including heterozygotes characterized by high-frequency hearing loss that is progressive across all frequencies and homozygotes with more severe hearing loss. We constructed a novel murine model with humanized homologous Kcnq4 mutation. The heterozygotes had mid-frequency and high-frequency hearing loss at 4 weeks, and moved toward all frequencies hearing loss at 12 weeks, while the homozygotes had severe-to-profound hearing loss at 8 weeks. The degeneration of outer hair cells (OHCs) was observed from basal to apical turn of cochlea. The reduced K+ currents and depolarized resting potentials were revealed in OHCs. Remarkably, we observed the loss of inner hair cells (IHCs) in the region corresponding to the frequency above 32 kHz at 8-12 weeks. The results suggest the degeneration of OHCs and IHCs may contribute to high-frequency hearing loss in DFNA2 over time. Our findings broaden the variants of KCNQ4 and provide a novel mouse model of progressive hearing loss, which contributes to an understanding of pathogenic mechanism and eventually treatment of DFNA2 progressive hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Cui
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Luping Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Fuping Qian
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong Laboratory of Development and Diseases, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bowei Huang
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Wang
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daqi Wang
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Lv
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuechun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zhiqiang Yan
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | - Luo Guo
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Geng-Lin Li
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yilai Shu
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong Laboratory of Development and Diseases, Nantong University, Nantong, China.,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Huawei Li
- ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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22
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Kim J, Hemachandran S, Cheng AG, Ricci AJ. Identifying targets to prevent aminoglycoside ototoxicity. Mol Cell Neurosci 2022; 120:103722. [PMID: 35341941 PMCID: PMC9177639 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2022.103722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aminoglycosides are potent antibiotics that are commonly prescribed worldwide. Their use carries significant risks of ototoxicity by directly causing inner ear hair cell degeneration. Despite their ototoxic side effects, there are currently no approved antidotes. Here we review recent advances in our understanding of aminoglycoside ototoxicity, mechanisms of drug transport, and promising sites for intervention to prevent ototoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinkyung Kim
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sriram Hemachandran
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alan G Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Anthony J Ricci
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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23
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Blanc F, Bemelmans AP, Affortit C, Joséphine C, Puel JL, Mondain M, Wang J. A Single Cisterna Magna Injection of AAV Leads to Binaural Transduction in Mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:783504. [PMID: 35087833 PMCID: PMC8787364 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.783504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral-mediated gene augmentation, silencing, or editing offers tremendous promise for the treatment of inherited and acquired deafness. Inner-ear gene therapies often require a safe, clinically useable and effective route of administration to target both ears, while avoiding damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear. Here, we examined the possibility of using a cisterna magna injection as a new cochlear local route for initiating binaural transduction by different serotypes of the adeno-associated virus (AAV2/8, AAV2/9, AAV2/Anc80L65). The results were compared with those following canalostomy injection, one of the existing standard inner ear local delivery routes. Our results demonstrated that a single injection of AAVs enables high-efficiency binaural transduction of almost all inner hair cells with a basal-apical pattern and of large numbers of spiral ganglion neurons of the basal portion of the cochlea, without affecting auditory function and cochlear structures. Taken together, these results reveal the potential for using a cisterna magna injection as a local route for binaural gene therapy applications, but extensive testing will be required before translation beyond mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Blanc
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France.,CHRU Montpellier-Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Alexis-Pierre Bemelmans
- Molecular Imaging Research Center, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, Direction de la Recherche Fondamentale, CEA, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, mécanismes, thérapies, imagerie, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Corentin Affortit
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Charlène Joséphine
- Molecular Imaging Research Center, Institut de Biologie François Jacob, Direction de la Recherche Fondamentale, CEA, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, mécanismes, thérapies, imagerie, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Jean-Luc Puel
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Michel Mondain
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France.,CHRU Montpellier-Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France.,CHRU Montpellier-Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire, Montpellier, France
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24
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Abstract
Since prehistory, human species have depended on plants for both food and medicine. Even in countries with ready access to modern medicines, alternative treatments are still highly regarded and commonly used. Unlike modern pharmaceuticals, many botanical medicines are in widespread use despite a lack of safety and efficacy data derived from controlled clinical trials and often unclear mechanisms of action. Contributing to this are the complex and undefined composition and likely multifactorial mechanisms of action and multiple targets of many botanical medicines. Here, we review the newfound importance of the ubiquitous KCNQ subfamily of voltage-gated potassium channels as targets for botanical medicines, including basil, capers, cilantro, lavender, fennel, chamomile, ginger, and Camellia, Sophora, and Mallotus species. We discuss the implications for the traditional use of these plants for disorders such as seizures, hypertension, and diabetes and the molecular mechanisms of plant secondary metabolite effects on KCNQ channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn E Redford
- Bioelectricity Laboratory, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA;
| | - Geoffrey W Abbott
- Bioelectricity Laboratory, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA;
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25
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Martin MJ, Spitzmaul G, Lassalle V. Novel insights and perspectives for the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss through the implementation of magnetic nanotheranostics. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202100685. [PMID: 34978134 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Hearing loss (HL) is a sensory disability that affects 5% of the world's population. HL predominantly involves damage and death to the cochlear cells. Currently, there is no cure or specific medications for HL. Furthermore, the arrival of therapeutic molecules to the inner ear represents a challenge due to the limited blood supply to the sensory cells and the poor penetration of the blood-cochlear barrier. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) perfectly coordinate with the requirements for controlled drug delivery along with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostic and monitoring capabilities. Besides, they are suitable tools to be applied to HL, expecting to be more effective and non-invasive. So far, the published literature only refers to some preclinical studies of SPIONs for HL management. This contribution aims to provide an integrated view of the best options and strategies that can be considered for future research punctually in the field of magnetic nanotechnology applied to HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Julia Martin
- INQUISUR: Instituto de Quimica del Sur, Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (CONICET-UNS), Alem 1253, 8000, Bahía Blanca, ARGENTINA
| | - Guillermo Spitzmaul
- Universidad Nacional del Sur Departamento de Biología Bioquímica y Farmacia: Universidad Nacional del Sur Departamento de Biologia Bioquimica y Farmacia, Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica Y farmacia, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000, Bahía Blanca, ARGENTINA
| | - Verónica Lassalle
- INQUISUR: Instituto de Quimica del Sur, Química, Av Alem 1253, 8000, Bahía Blanca, ARGENTINA
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26
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Fan XZ, Wang YY, Cui ZY, Cheng ZH, Zhang HL, Gamper N, Zhang F, Han M. Kv7.4 channel is a key regulator of vascular inflammation and remodeling in neointimal hyperplasia and abdominal aortic aneurysms. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 178:111-124. [PMID: 34863875 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.11.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation has recently emerged as an important contributor for cardiovascular disease development and participates pivotally in the development of neointimal hyperplasia and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) formation. Kv7.4/KCNQ4, a K+ channel, is one of the important regulators of vascular function but its role in vascular inflammation is unexplored. Here, we showed that the expression of Kv7.4 channel was elevated in the neointima and AAA tissues from mice and humans. Genetic deletion or pharmacological inhibition of Kv7.4 channel in mice alleviated neointimal hyperplasia and AAA formation via downregulation of a set of vascular inflammation-related genes, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2/9, and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1). Furthermore, genetic deletion or inhibition of Kv7.4 channel suppressed the activation of tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1)-nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway via blockade of interaction between TNFR1 and TNFR1-associated death domain protein (TRADD) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Knockdown of Kv7.4 in vivo identified VSMC-expressed Kv7.4 as a major factor in vascular inflammation. Collectively, our findings suggest that Kv7.4 channel aggravates vascular inflammatory response, which promotes the neointimal hyperplasia and AAA formation. Inhibition of Kv7.4 channel may be a novel therapeutic strategy for vascular inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Zhenzi Fan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Ying-Ying Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Zi-Yang Cui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Zi-Hao Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Hai-Lin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education, PR China; Key Laboratory of New Drug Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Nikita Gamper
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education, PR China; Key Laboratory of New Drug Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
| | - Mei Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Medical Biotechnology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
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27
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Progression of KCNQ4 related genetic hearing loss: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF BIO-X RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/jbr.0000000000000112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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28
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Ion channel-related hereditary hearing loss: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF BIO-X RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/jbr.0000000000000108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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29
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Pavlenkova Z, Varga L, Borecka S, Karhanek M, Huckova M, Skopkova M, Profant M, Gasperikova D. Comprehensive molecular-genetic analysis of mid-frequency sensorineural hearing loss. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22488. [PMID: 34795337 PMCID: PMC8602250 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01876-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic heterogeneity of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a major hurdle to the detection of disease-causing variants. We aimed to identify underlying causal genes associated with mid-frequency hearing loss (HL), which contributes to less than about 1% of SNHL cases, by whole exome sequencing (WES). Thirty families segregating mid-frequency SNHL, in whom biallelic GJB2 mutations had been previously excluded, were selected from among 851 families in our DNA repository of SNHL. DNA samples from the probands were subjected to WES analysis and searched for candidate variants associated with SNHL. We were able to identify the genetic aetiology in six probands (20%). In total, we found three pathogenic and three likely pathogenic variants in four genes (COL4A5, OTOGL, TECTA, TMPRSS3). One more proband was a compound heterozygote for a pathogenic variant and a variant of uncertain significance (VUS) in MYO15A gene. To date, MYO15A and TMPRSS3 have not yet been described in association with mid-frequency SNHL. In eight additional probands, eight candidate VUS variants were detected in five genes (DIAPH1, MYO7A, TECTA, TMC1, TSPEAR). Seven of these 16 variants have not yet been published or mentioned in the available databases. The most prevalent gene was TECTA, identified in 23% of all tested families. Furthermore, we confirmed the hypothesis that a substantive portion of cases with this conspicuous audiogram shape is a consequence of a genetic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Pavlenkova
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.,DIABGENE Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lukas Varga
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia. .,DIABGENE Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Silvia Borecka
- DIABGENE Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Miloslav Karhanek
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Miloslava Huckova
- DIABGENE Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Martina Skopkova
- DIABGENE Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Milan Profant
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Daniela Gasperikova
- DIABGENE Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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30
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Kojima T, Wasano K, Takahashi S, Homma K. Cell death-inducing cytotoxicity in truncated KCNQ4 variants associated with DFNA2 hearing loss. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:272416. [PMID: 34622280 PMCID: PMC8628632 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
KCNQ4 encodes the homotetrameric voltage-dependent potassium ion channel Kv7.4, and is the causative gene for autosomal dominant nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss, DFNA2. Dominant-negative inhibition accounts for the observed dominant inheritance of many DFNA2-associated KCNQ4 variants. In addition, haploinsufficiency has been presumed as the pathological mechanism for truncated Kv7.4 variants lacking the C-terminal tetramerization region, as they are unlikely to exert a dominant-negative inhibitory effect. Such truncated Kv7.4 variants should result in relatively mild hearing loss when heterozygous; however, this is not always the case. In this study, we characterized Kv7.4Q71fs (c.211delC), Kv7.4W242X (c.725G>A) and Kv7.4A349fs (c.1044_1051del8) in heterologous expression systems and found that expression of these truncated Kv7.4 variants induced cell death. We also found similar cell death-inducing cytotoxic effects in truncated Kv7.1 (KCNQ1) variants, suggesting that the generality of our findings could account for the dominant inheritance of many, if not most, truncated Kv7 variants. Moreover, we found that the application of autophagy inducers can ameliorate the cytotoxicity, providing a novel insight for the development of alternative therapeutic strategies for Kv7.4 variants. Summary: Expression of truncated KCNQ4 variants lacking the C-terminal tetramerization domain results in cell-death inducing cytotoxicity, providing novel insight into the development of alternative therapeutic strategies for DFNA2 hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kojima
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Koichiro Wasano
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.,Laboratory of Auditory Disorders, Division of Hearing and Balance Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro, Tokyo 152-8902, Japan
| | - Satoe Takahashi
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Kazuaki Homma
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.,The Hugh Knowles Center for Clinical and Basic Science in Hearing and Its Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60608, USA
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31
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Wang Q, Li W, Cai C, Hu P, Lai R. miR-153/KCNQ4 axis contributes to noise-induced hearing loss in a mouse model. J Physiol Sci 2021; 71:28. [PMID: 34479475 PMCID: PMC10718010 DOI: 10.1186/s12576-021-00814-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Damage to the cochlear sensory epithelium is a key contributor to noise-induced sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). KCNQ4 plays an important role in the cochlear potassium circulation and outer hair cells survival. As miR-153 can target and regulate KCNQ4, we sought to study the role of miR-153 in SNHL. 12-week-old male CBA/J mice were exposed to 2-20 kHz broadband noise at 96 dB SPL to induce temporary threshold shifts and 101 dB SPL to induce permanent threshold shifts. Hearing loss was determined by auditory brainstem responses (ABR). Relative expression of miR-153 and KCNQ4 in mice cochlea were determined by Real-Time quantitative PCR. miR-153 mimics were co-transfected with wild type or mutated KCNQ4 into HEK293 cells. Luciferase reporter assay was used to validate the binding between miR-153 and KCNQ4. AAV-sp-153 was constructed and administrated intra-peritoneally 24- and 2-h prior and immediately after noise exposure to knockdown miR-153. The KCNQ4 is mainly expressed in outer hair cells (OHCs). We showed that the expression of KCNQ4 in mice cochlea was reduced and miR-153 expression was significantly increased after noise exposure compared to control. miR-153 bound to 3'UTR of KNCQ4, and the knockdown of miR-153 with the AAV-sp-153 administration restored KCNQ4 mRNA and protein expression. In addition, the knockdown of miR-153 reduced ABR threshold shifts at 8, 16, and 32 kHz after permanent threshold shifts (PTS) noise exposure. Correspondingly, OHC losses were attenuated with inhibition of miR-153. This study demonstrates that miR-153 inhibition significantly restores KNCQ4 in cochlea after noise exposure, which attenuates SNHL. Our study provides a new potential therapeutic target in the prevention and treatment of SNHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Cuiyun Cai
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Peng Hu
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Ruosha Lai
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.
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Peixoto Pinheiro B, Adel Y, Knipper M, Müller M, Löwenheim H. Auditory Threshold Variability in the SAMP8 Mouse Model of Age-Related Hearing Loss: Functional Loss and Phenotypic Change Precede Outer Hair Cell Loss. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:708190. [PMID: 34408646 PMCID: PMC8366269 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.708190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most common sensory deficit in aging society, which is accompanied by increased speech discrimination difficulties in noisy environments, social isolation, and cognitive decline. The audiometric degree of ARHL is largely correlated with sensory hair cell loss in addition to age-related factors not captured by histopathological analysis of the human cochlea. Previous studies have identified the senescence-accelerated mouse prone strain 8 (SAMP8) as a model for studying ARHL and age-related modifications of the cochlear redox environment. However, the SAMP8 population exhibits a large variability in auditory function decline over age, whose underlying cause remains unknown. In this study, we analyzed auditory function of SAMP8 mice by measuring auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds at the age of 6 weeks (juvenile), 12 weeks (young adult), and 24 weeks (adult). Consistent with previous studies, SAMP8 mice exhibit an early progressive, age-related decline of hearing acuity. However, a spatiotemporal cytohistological analysis showed that the significant increase in threshold variability was not concurrently reflected in outer hair cell (OHC) loss observed in the lower and upper quartiles of the ABR threshold distributions over age. This functional loss was found to precede OHC loss suggesting that age-related phenotypic changes may be contributing factors not represented in cytohistological analysis. The expression of potassium channels KCNQ4 (KV7.4), which mediates the current IK,n crucial for the maintenance of OHC membrane potential, and KCNQ1 (KV7.1), which is an essential component in potassium circulation and secretion into the endolymph generating the endocochlear potential, showed differences between these quartiles and age groups. This suggests that phenotypic changes in OHCs or the stria vascularis due to variable oxidative deficiencies in individual mice may be predictors of the observed threshold variability in SAMP8 mice and their progressive ARHL. In future studies, further phenotypic predictors affected by accumulated metabolic challenges over age need to be investigated as potentially underlying causes of ARHL preceding irreversible OHC loss in the SAMP8 mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Peixoto Pinheiro
- Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Youssef Adel
- Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marcus Müller
- Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hubert Löwenheim
- Translational Hearing Research, Tübingen Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Novel KCNQ4 variants in different functional domains confer genotype- and mechanism-based therapeutics in patients with nonsyndromic hearing loss. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:1192-1204. [PMID: 34316018 PMCID: PMC8333092 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00653-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss-of-function variant in the gene encoding the KCNQ4 potassium channel causes autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (DFNA2), and no effective pharmacotherapeutics have been developed to reverse channel activity impairment. Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2), an obligatory phospholipid for maintaining KCNQ channel activity, confers differential pharmacological sensitivity of channels to KCNQ openers. Through whole-exome sequencing of DFNA2 families, we identified three novel KCNQ4 variants related to diverse auditory phenotypes in the proximal C-terminus (p.Arg331Gln), the C-terminus of the S6 segment (p.Gly319Asp), and the pore region (p.Ala271_Asp272del). Potassium currents in HEK293T cells expressing each KCNQ4 variant were recorded by patch-clamp, and functional recovery by PIP2 expression or KCNQ openers was examined. In the homomeric expression setting, the three novel KCNQ4 mutant proteins lost conductance and were unresponsive to KCNQ openers or PIP2 expression. Loss of p.Arg331Gln conductance was slightly restored by a tandem concatemer channel (WT-p.R331Q), and increased PIP2 expression further increased the concatemer current to the level of the WT channel. Strikingly, an impaired homomeric p.Gly319Asp channel exhibited hyperactivity when a concatemer (WT-p.G319D), with a negative shift in the voltage dependence of activation. Correspondingly, a KCNQ inhibitor and chelation of PIP2 effectively downregulated the hyperactive WT-p.G319D concatemer channel. Conversely, the pore-region variant (p.Ala271_Asp272del) was nonrescuable under any condition. Collectively, these novel KCNQ4 variants may constitute therapeutic targets that can be manipulated by the PIP2 level and KCNQ-regulating drugs under the physiological context of heterozygous expression. Our research contributes to the establishment of a genotype/mechanism-based therapeutic portfolio for DFNA2.
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34
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Bayasgalan T, Stupniki S, Kovács A, Csemer A, Szentesi P, Pocsai K, Dionisio L, Spitzmaul G, Pál B. Alteration of Mesopontine Cholinergic Function by the Lack of KCNQ4 Subunit. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:707789. [PMID: 34381336 PMCID: PMC8352570 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.707789] [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: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN), a structure known as a cholinergic member of the reticular activating system (RAS), is source and target of cholinergic neuromodulation and contributes to the regulation of the sleep–wakefulness cycle. The M-current is a voltage-gated potassium current modulated mainly by cholinergic signaling. KCNQ subunits ensemble into ion channels responsible for the M-current. In the central nervous system, KCNQ4 expression is restricted to certain brainstem structures such as the RAS nuclei. Here, we investigated the presence and functional significance of KCNQ4 in the PPN by behavioral studies and the gene and protein expressions and slice electrophysiology using a mouse model lacking KCNQ4 expression. We found that this mouse has alterations in the adaptation to changes in light–darkness cycles, representing the potential role of KCNQ4 in the regulation of the sleep–wakefulness cycle. As cholinergic neurons from the PPN participate in the regulation of this cycle, we investigated whether the cholinergic PPN might also possess functional KCNQ4 subunits. Although the M-current is an electrophysiological hallmark of cholinergic neurons, only a subpopulation of them had KCNQ4-dependent M-current. Interestingly, the absence of the KCNQ4 subunit altered the expression patterns of the other KCNQ subunits in the PPN. We also determined that, in wild-type animals, the cholinergic inputs of the PPN modulated the M-current, and these in turn can modulate the level of synchronization between neighboring PPN neurons. Taken together, the KCNQ4 subunit is present in a subpopulation of PPN cholinergic neurons, and it may contribute to the regulation of the sleep–wakefulness cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bayasgalan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - S Stupniki
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional Del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina.,Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - A Kovács
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - A Csemer
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - P Szentesi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - K Pocsai
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - L Dionisio
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional Del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina.,Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - G Spitzmaul
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional Del Sur (UNS), Bahía Blanca, Argentina.,Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - B Pál
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Bazard P, Frisina RD, Acosta AA, Dasgupta S, Bauer MA, Zhu X, Ding B. Roles of Key Ion Channels and Transport Proteins in Age-Related Hearing Loss. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6158. [PMID: 34200434 PMCID: PMC8201059 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The auditory system is a fascinating sensory organ that overall, converts sound signals to electrical signals of the nervous system. Initially, sound energy is converted to mechanical energy via amplification processes in the middle ear, followed by transduction of mechanical movements of the oval window into electrochemical signals in the cochlear hair cells, and finally, neural signals travel to the central auditory system, via the auditory division of the 8th cranial nerve. The majority of people above 60 years have some form of age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis. However, the biological mechanisms of presbycusis are complex and not yet fully delineated. In the present article, we highlight ion channels and transport proteins, which are integral for the proper functioning of the auditory system, facilitating the diffusion of various ions across auditory structures for signal transduction and processing. Like most other physiological systems, hearing abilities decline with age, hence, it is imperative to fully understand inner ear aging changes, so ion channel functions should be further investigated in the aging cochlea. In this review article, we discuss key various ion channels in the auditory system and how their functions change with age. Understanding the roles of ion channels in auditory processing could enhance the development of potential biotherapies for age-related hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parveen Bazard
- Department of Medical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA; (P.B.); (A.A.A.); (S.D.); (M.A.B.); (X.Z.); (B.D.)
- Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Robert D. Frisina
- Department of Medical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA; (P.B.); (A.A.A.); (S.D.); (M.A.B.); (X.Z.); (B.D.)
- Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Department Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Behavioral & Communication Sciences, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Alejandro A. Acosta
- Department of Medical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA; (P.B.); (A.A.A.); (S.D.); (M.A.B.); (X.Z.); (B.D.)
- Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Sneha Dasgupta
- Department of Medical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA; (P.B.); (A.A.A.); (S.D.); (M.A.B.); (X.Z.); (B.D.)
- Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Mark A. Bauer
- Department of Medical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA; (P.B.); (A.A.A.); (S.D.); (M.A.B.); (X.Z.); (B.D.)
- Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Xiaoxia Zhu
- Department of Medical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA; (P.B.); (A.A.A.); (S.D.); (M.A.B.); (X.Z.); (B.D.)
- Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Bo Ding
- Department of Medical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA; (P.B.); (A.A.A.); (S.D.); (M.A.B.); (X.Z.); (B.D.)
- Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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36
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Jepps TA, Barrese V, Miceli F. Editorial: Kv7 Channels: Structure, Physiology, and Pharmacology. Front Physiol 2021; 12:679317. [PMID: 33935812 PMCID: PMC8085343 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.679317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Jepps
- Vascular Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vincenzo Barrese
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Miceli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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37
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Optimized Tuning of Auditory Inner Hair Cells to Encode Complex Sound through Synergistic Activity of Six Independent K + Current Entities. Cell Rep 2021; 32:107869. [PMID: 32640234 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Auditory inner hair cells (IHCs) convert sound vibrations into receptor potentials that drive synaptic transmission. For the precise encoding of sound qualities, receptor potentials are shaped by K+ conductances tuning the properties of the IHC membrane. Using patch-clamp and computational modeling, we unravel this membrane specialization showing that IHCs express an exclusive repertoire of six voltage-dependent K+ conductances mediated by Kv1.8, Kv7.4, Kv11.1, Kv12.1, and BKCa channels. All channels are active at rest but are triggered differentially during sound stimulation. This enables non-saturating tuning over a far larger potential range than in IHCs expressing fewer current entities. Each conductance contributes to optimizing responses, but the combined activity of all channels synergistically improves phase locking and the dynamic range of intensities that IHCs can encode. Conversely, hypothetical simpler IHCs appear limited to encode only certain aspects (frequency or intensity). The exclusive channel repertoire of IHCs thus constitutes an evolutionary adaptation to encode complex sound through multifaceted receptor potentials.
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Li Q, Liang P, Wang S, Li W, Wang J, Yang Y, An X, Chen J, Zha D. A novel KCNQ4 gene variant (c.857A>G; p.Tyr286Cys) in an extended family with non‑syndromic deafness 2A. Mol Med Rep 2021; 23:420. [PMID: 33846771 PMCID: PMC8025472 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Deafness is one of the most common sensory disorders found in humans; notably, >60% of all cases of deafness have been attributed to genetic factors. Variants in potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily Q member 4 (KCNQ4) are etiologically linked to a type of progressive hearing loss, deafness non-syndromic autosomal dominant 2A (DFNA2A). In the present study, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on three members of a five-generation Chinese family with 46 members with hearing loss. Pure tone audiometry and Sanger sequencing were performed for 11 family members to determine whether the novel variant in the KCNQ4 gene was segregated with the affected family members. In addition, evolutionary conservation analysis and computational tertiary structure protein prediction of the wild-type KCNQ4 protein and its variant were performed. The family exhibited autosomal dominant, progressive, post-lingual, non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss. A novel co-segregating heterozygous missense variant (c.857A>G; p.Tyr286Cys) in the glycine-tyrosine-glycine signature sequence in the pore region of the KCNQ4 channel was identified. This variant was predicted to result in a tyrosine-to-cysteine substitution at position 286 in the KCNQ4 protein. The tyrosine at position 286 is well conserved across different species. The substitution of tyrosine with cysteine would affect the structure of the pore region, resulting in the loss of channel function. The KCNQ4 gene is one of the most common mutated genes observed in patients with autosomal dominant, non-syndromic hearing loss. Taken together, for the family analyzed in the present study, performing WES in conjunction with Sanger sequencing has led to the detection of a novel, potentially causative variant (c.857 A>G; p.Tyr286Cys) in exon 6 of the KCNQ4 gene. The present study has added to the number of pathogenic variants observed in the KCNQ4 gene, and the findings may prove to be useful for both the diagnosis of DFNA2A and in the design of early interventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Li
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Pengfei Liang
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Shujuan Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Xiaogang An
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
| | - Dingjun Zha
- Department of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, P.R. China
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Marchetta P, Rüttiger L, Hobbs AJ, Singer W, Knipper M. The role of cGMP signalling in auditory processing in health and disease. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:2378-2393. [PMID: 33768519 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
cGMP is generated by the cGMP-forming guanylyl cyclases (GCs), the intracellular nitric oxide (NO)-sensitive (soluble) guanylyl cyclase (sGC) and transmembrane GC (e.g. GC-A and GC-B). In summarizing the particular role of cGMP signalling for hearing, we show that GC generally do not interfere significantly with basic hearing function but rather sustain a healthy state for proper temporal coding, fast discrimination and adjustments during injury. sGC is critical for the integrity of the first synapse in the ascending auditory pathway, the inner hair cell synapse. GC-A promotes hair cell stability under stressful conditions such as acoustic trauma or ageing. GC-B plays a role in the development of efferent feed-back and gain control. Regarding the crucial role hearing has for language development, speech discrimination and cognitive brain functions, differential pharmaceutical targeting of GCs offers therapeutic promise for the restoration of hearing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philine Marchetta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lukas Rüttiger
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Adrian J Hobbs
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Wibke Singer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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40
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Effertz T, Moser T, Oliver D. Recent advances in cochlear hair cell nanophysiology: subcellular compartmentalization of electrical signaling in compact sensory cells. Fac Rev 2021; 9:24. [PMID: 33659956 PMCID: PMC7886071 DOI: 10.12703/r/9-24] [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] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, genetics, physiology, and structural biology have advanced into the molecular details of the sensory physiology of auditory hair cells. Inner hair cells (IHCs) and outer hair cells (OHCs) mediate two key functions: active amplification and non-linear compression of cochlear vibrations by OHCs and sound encoding by IHCs at their afferent synapses with the spiral ganglion neurons. OHCs and IHCs share some molecular physiology, e.g. mechanotransduction at the apical hair bundles, ribbon-type presynaptic active zones, and ionic conductances in the basolateral membrane. Unique features enabling their specific function include prestin-based electromotility of OHCs and indefatigable transmitter release at the highest known rates by ribbon-type IHC active zones. Despite their compact morphology, the molecular machineries that either generate electrical signals or are driven by these signals are essentially all segregated into local subcellular structures. This review provides a brief account on recent insights into the molecular physiology of cochlear hair cells with a specific focus on organization into membrane domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Effertz
- InnerEarLab, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37099 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37099 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience Group, Max Planck Institute for Experimental Medicine, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Oliver
- Institute for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Philipps University, Deutschhausstraße 2, 35037 Marburg, Germany
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Universities of Marburg and Giessen, Germany
- DFG Research Training Group, Membrane Plasticity in Tissue Development and Remodelling, GRK 2213, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
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41
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Stojkovic M, Han D, Jeong M, Stojkovic P, Stankovic KM. Human induced pluripotent stem cells and CRISPR/Cas-mediated targeted genome editing: Platforms to tackle sensorineural hearing loss. STEM CELLS (DAYTON, OHIO) 2021; 39:673-696. [PMID: 33586253 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Hearing loss (HL) is a major global health problem of pandemic proportions. The most common type of HL is sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) which typically occurs when cells within the inner ear are damaged. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can be generated from any individual including those who suffer from different types of HL. The development of new differentiation protocols to obtain cells of the inner ear including hair cells (HCs) and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) promises to expedite cell-based therapy and screening of potential pharmacologic and genetic therapies using human models. Considering age-related, acoustic, ototoxic, and genetic insults which are the most frequent causes of irreversible damage of HCs and SGNs, new methods of genome editing (GE), especially the CRISPR/Cas9 technology, could bring additional opportunities to understand the pathogenesis of human SNHL and identify novel therapies. However, important challenges associated with both hiPSCs and GE need to be overcome before scientific discoveries are correctly translated to effective and patient-safe applications. The purpose of the present review is (a) to summarize the findings from published reports utilizing hiPSCs for studies of SNHL, hence complementing recent reviews focused on animal studies, and (b) to outline promising future directions for deciphering SNHL using disruptive molecular and genomic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miodrag Stojkovic
- Eaton Peabody Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dongjun Han
- Eaton Peabody Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Minjin Jeong
- Eaton Peabody Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Petra Stojkovic
- Eaton Peabody Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Konstantina M Stankovic
- Eaton Peabody Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Program in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Program in Therapeutic Science, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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42
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Activation of KCNQ4 as a Therapeutic Strategy to Treat Hearing Loss. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052510. [PMID: 33801540 PMCID: PMC7958948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily q member 4 (KCNQ4) is a voltage-gated potassium channel that plays essential roles in maintaining ion homeostasis and regulating hair cell membrane potential. Reduction of the activity of the KCNQ4 channel owing to genetic mutations is responsible for nonsyndromic hearing loss, a typically late-onset, initially high-frequency loss progressing over time. In addition, variants of KCNQ4 have also been associated with noise-induced hearing loss and age-related hearing loss. Therefore, the discovery of small compounds activating or potentiating KCNQ4 is an important strategy for the curative treatment of hearing loss. In this review, we updated the current concept of the physiological role of KCNQ4 in the inner ear and the pathologic mechanism underlying the role of KCNQ4 variants with regard to hearing loss. Finally, we focused on currently developed KCNQ4 activators and their pros and cons, paving the way for the future development of specific KCNQ4 activators as a remedy for hearing loss.
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43
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Lv J, Fu X, Li Y, Hong G, Li P, Lin J, Xun Y, Fang L, Weng W, Yue R, Li GL, Guan B, Li H, Huang Y, Chai R. Deletion of Kcnj16 in Mice Does Not Alter Auditory Function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:630361. [PMID: 33693002 PMCID: PMC7937937 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.630361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Endolymphatic potential (EP) is the main driving force behind the sensory transduction of hearing, and K+ is the main charge carrier. Kir5.1 is a K+ transporter that plays a significant role in maintaining EP homeostasis, but the expression pattern and role of Kir5.1 (which is encoded by the Kcnj16 gene) in the mouse auditory system has remained unclear. In this study, we found that Kir5.1 was expressed in the mouse cochlea. We checked the inner ear morphology and measured auditory function in Kcnj16–/– mice and found that loss of Kcnj16 did not appear to affect the development of hair cells. There was no significant difference in auditory function between Kcnj16–/– mice and wild-type littermates, although the expression of Kcnma1, Kcnq4, and Kcne1 were significantly decreased in the Kcnj16–/– mice. Additionally, no significant differences were found in the number or distribution of ribbon synapses between the Kcnj16–/– and wild-type mice. In summary, our results suggest that the Kcnj16 gene is not essential for auditory function in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Lv
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaolong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yige Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guodong Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peipei Li
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Youfang Xun
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lucheng Fang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Weibin Weng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Rongyu Yue
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Geng-Lin Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and ENT Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Guan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - He Li
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yideng Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hwa Mei Hospital, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Renjie Chai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Jiangsu Province High-Tech Key Laboratory for Bio-Medical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Abstract
Kv7.1-Kv7.5 (KCNQ1-5) K+ channels are voltage-gated K+ channels with major roles in neurons, muscle cells and epithelia where they underlie physiologically important K+ currents, such as neuronal M current and cardiac IKs. Specific biophysical properties of Kv7 channels make them particularly well placed to control the activity of excitable cells. Indeed, these channels often work as 'excitability breaks' and are targeted by various hormones and modulators to regulate cellular activity outputs. Genetic deficiencies in all five KCNQ genes result in human excitability disorders, including epilepsy, arrhythmias, deafness and some others. Not surprisingly, this channel family attracts considerable attention as potential drug targets. Here we will review biophysical properties and tissue expression profile of Kv7 channels, discuss recent advances in the understanding of their structure as well as their role in various neurological, cardiovascular and other diseases and pathologies. We will also consider a scope for therapeutic targeting of Kv7 channels for treatment of the above health conditions.
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45
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Age-related hearing loss pertaining to potassium ion channels in the cochlea and auditory pathway. Pflugers Arch 2020; 473:823-840. [PMID: 33336302 PMCID: PMC8076138 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-020-02496-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most prevalent sensory deficit in the elderly and constitutes the third highest risk factor for dementia. Lifetime noise exposure, genetic predispositions for degeneration, and metabolic stress are assumed to be the major causes of ARHL. Both noise-induced and hereditary progressive hearing have been linked to decreased cell surface expression and impaired conductance of the potassium ion channel KV7.4 (KCNQ4) in outer hair cells, inspiring future therapies to maintain or prevent the decline of potassium ion channel surface expression to reduce ARHL. In concert with KV7.4 in outer hair cells, KV7.1 (KCNQ1) in the stria vascularis, calcium-activated potassium channels BK (KCNMA1) and SK2 (KCNN2) in hair cells and efferent fiber synapses, and KV3.1 (KCNC1) in the spiral ganglia and ascending auditory circuits share an upregulated expression or subcellular targeting during final differentiation at hearing onset. They also share a distinctive fragility for noise exposure and age-dependent shortfalls in energy supply required for sustained surface expression. Here, we review and discuss the possible contribution of select potassium ion channels in the cochlea and auditory pathway to ARHL. We postulate genes, proteins, or modulators that contribute to sustained ion currents or proper surface expressions of potassium channels under challenging conditions as key for future therapies of ARHL.
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46
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Zheng L, Yuan H, Zhang M, Wang C, Cai X, Liu J, Xu XQ. Rbm24 regulates inner-ear-specific alternative splicing and is essential for maintaining auditory and motor coordination. RNA Biol 2020; 18:468-480. [PMID: 32887533 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1817265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-specific alternative splicing (AS) is emerging as one of the most exciting types of mechanisms associated with organ development and disease. In the auditory system, many hearing-related genes undergo AS, and errors in this process result in syndromic or non-syndromic hearing loss. However, little is known about the factors and mechanisms directing AS in the inner ear. In the present study, we identified a novel RNA-binding protein, Rbm24, which was critically involved in regulating inner-ear-specific AS. Rbm24 deletion resulted in hearing loss and defects in motor coordination. Global splicing analysis showed Rbm24 was required for correct splicing of a subset of pre-mRNA transcripts with essential roles in stereocilia integrity and survival of hair cells. Furthermore, we identified that Rbm24 directly regulated the splicing of Cdh23, a known disease gene responsible for human Usher syndrome 1D and non-syndromic autosomal recessive deafness DFNB12. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that Rbm24 was a critical factor in regulating inner-ear-specific splicing and maintaining the hearing and motor coordination function of the inner ear. Our data not only offer mechanistic insights but also provide functional annotation of Rbm24 splicing targets that contribute to hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longqing Zheng
- The Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Huijun Yuan
- Medical Genetics Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mengkai Zhang
- The Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Cuicui Wang
- Medical Genetics Center, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuemin Cai
- The Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jing Liu
- The Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Shenzhen Research Institute, Xiamen University, P.R. China
| | - Xiu Qin Xu
- The Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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47
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Vigil FA, Carver CM, Shapiro MS. Pharmacological Manipulation of K v 7 Channels as a New Therapeutic Tool for Multiple Brain Disorders. Front Physiol 2020; 11:688. [PMID: 32636759 PMCID: PMC7317068 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
K v 7 ("M-type," KCNQ) K+ currents, play dominant roles in controlling neuronal excitability. They act as a "brake" against hyperexcitable states in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Pharmacological augmentation of M current has been developed for controlling epileptic seizures, although current pharmacological tools are uneven in practical usefulness. Lately, however, M-current "opener" compounds have been suggested to be efficacious in preventing brain damage after multiple types of insults/diseases, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, drug addiction and mood disorders. In this review, we will discuss what is known to date on these efforts and identify gaps in our knowledge regarding the link between M current and therapeutic potential for these disorders. We will outline the preclinical experiments that are yet to be performed to demonstrate the likelihood of success of this approach in human trials. Finally, we also address multiple pharmacological tools available to manipulate different K v 7 subunits and the relevant evidence for translational application in the clinical use for disorders of the central nervous system and multiple types of brain insults. We feel there to be great potential for manipulation of K v 7 channels as a novel therapeutic mode of intervention in the clinic, and that the paucity of existing therapies obligates us to perform further research, so that patients can soon benefit from such therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio A Vigil
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Chase M Carver
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Mark S Shapiro
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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48
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Marchetta P, Möhrle D, Eckert P, Reimann K, Wolter S, Tolone A, Lang I, Wolters M, Feil R, Engel J, Paquet-Durand F, Kuhn M, Knipper M, Rüttiger L. Guanylyl Cyclase A/cGMP Signaling Slows Hidden, Age- and Acoustic Trauma-Induced Hearing Loss. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:83. [PMID: 32327991 PMCID: PMC7160671 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In the inner ear, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling has been described as facilitating otoprotection, which was previously observed through elevated cGMP levels achieved by phosphodiesterase 5 inhibition. However, to date, the upstream guanylyl cyclase (GC) subtype eliciting cGMP production is unknown. Here, we show that mice with a genetic disruption of the gene encoding the cGMP generator GC-A, the receptor for atrial and B-type natriuretic peptides, display a greater vulnerability of hair cells to hidden hearing loss and noise- and age-dependent hearing loss. This vulnerability was associated with GC-A expression in spiral ganglia and outer hair cells (OHCs) but not in inner hair cells (IHCs). GC-A knockout mice exhibited elevated hearing thresholds, most pronounced for the detection of high-frequency tones. Deficits in OHC input–output functions in high-frequency regions were already present in young GC-A-deficient mice, with no signs of an accelerated progression of age-related hearing loss or higher vulnerability to acoustic trauma. OHCs in these frequency regions in young GC-A knockout mice exhibited diminished levels of KCNQ4 expression, which is the dominant K+ channel in OHCs, and decreased activation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1, an enzyme involved in DNA repair. Further, GC-A knockout mice had IHC synapse impairments and reduced amplitudes of auditory brainstem responses that progressed with age and with acoustic trauma, in contrast to OHCs, when compared to GC-A wild-type littermates. We conclude that GC-A/cGMP-dependent signaling pathways have otoprotective functions and GC-A gene disruption differentially contributes to hair-cell damage in a healthy, aged, or injured system. Thus, augmentation of natriuretic peptide GC-A signaling likely has potential to overcome hidden and noise-induced hearing loss, as well as presbycusis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philine Marchetta
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Dorit Möhrle
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Philipp Eckert
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katrin Reimann
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Steffen Wolter
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Arianna Tolone
- Cell Death Mechanisms Group, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Isabelle Lang
- Department of Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Hearing Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus Wolters
- Signal Transduction and Transgenic Models, Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Robert Feil
- Signal Transduction and Transgenic Models, Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jutta Engel
- Department of Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Hearing Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - François Paquet-Durand
- Cell Death Mechanisms Group, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michaela Kuhn
- Institute of Physiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lukas Rüttiger
- Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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49
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Perez-Flores MC, Lee JH, Park S, Zhang XD, Sihn CR, Ledford HA, Wang W, Kim HJ, Timofeyev V, Yarov-Yarovoy V, Chiamvimonvat N, Rabbitt RD, Yamoah EN. Cooperativity of K v7.4 channels confers ultrafast electromechanical sensitivity and emergent properties in cochlear outer hair cells. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaba1104. [PMID: 32285007 PMCID: PMC7141818 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aba1104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian cochlea relies on active electromotility of outer hair cells (OHCs) to resolve sound frequencies. OHCs use ionic channels and somatic electromotility to achieve the process. It is unclear, though, how the kinetics of voltage-gated ionic channels operate to overcome extrinsic viscous drag on OHCs at high frequency. Here, we report ultrafast electromechanical gating of clustered Kv7.4 in OHCs. Increases in kinetics and sensitivity resulting from cooperativity among clustered-Kv7.4 were revealed, using optogenetics strategies. Upon clustering, the half-activation voltage shifted negative, and the speed of activation increased relative to solitary channels. Clustering also rendered Kv7.4 channels mechanically sensitive, confirmed in consolidated Kv7.4 channels at the base of OHCs. Kv7.4 clusters provide OHCs with ultrafast electromechanical channel gating, varying in magnitude and speed along the cochlea axis. Ultrafast Kv7.4 gating provides OHCs with a feedback mechanism that enables the cochlea to overcome viscous drag and resolve sounds at auditory frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C. Perez-Flores
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Jeong H. Lee
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Seojin Park
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Xiao-Dong Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Health Care System, Mather, CA 95655, USA
| | - Choong-Ryoul Sihn
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Hannah A. Ledford
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Wenying Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Hyo Jeong Kim
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Valeriy Timofeyev
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Health Care System, Mather, CA 95655, USA
| | - Vladimir Yarov-Yarovoy
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Nipavan Chiamvimonvat
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Health Care System, Mather, CA 95655, USA
| | - Richard D. Rabbitt
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Otolaryngology, and Neuroscience Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Corresponding author. (E.N.Y.); (R.D.R.)
| | - Ebenezer N. Yamoah
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
- Corresponding author. (E.N.Y.); (R.D.R.)
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50
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Protective Mechanisms of Avocado Oil Extract Against Ototoxicity. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12040947. [PMID: 32235401 PMCID: PMC7230542 DOI: 10.3390/nu12040947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the excellent antimicrobial activity of aminoglycoside antibiotics, permanent inner ear damage associated with the use of these drugs has resulted in the need to develop strategies to address the ototoxic risk given their widespread use. In a previous study, we showed that avocado oil protects ear hair cells from damage caused by neomycin. However, the detailed mechanism by which this protection occurs is still unclear. Here, we investigated the auditory cell-protective mechanism of enhanced functional avocado oil extract (DKB122). RNA sequencing followed by pathway analysis revealed that DKB122 has the potential to enhance the expression of detoxification and antioxidant genes associated with glutathione metabolism (Hmox4, Gsta4, Mgst1, and Abcc3) in HEI-OC1 cells. Additionally, DKB122 effectively decreased ROS levels, resulting in the inhibition of apoptosis in HEI-OC1 cells. The expression of the inflammatory genes that encode chemokines and interleukins was also downregulated by DKB122 treatment. Consistent with these results, DKB122 significantly inhibited p65 nuclear migration induced by TNF-α or LPS in HEI-OC1 cells and THP-1 cells and the expression of inflammatory chemokine and interleukin genes induced by TNF-α was significantly reduced. Moreover, DKB122 treatment increased LC3-II and decreased p62 in HEI-OC1 cells, suggesting that DKB122 increases autophagic flux. These results suggest that DKB122 has otoprotective effects attributable to its antioxidant activity, induction of antioxidant gene expression, anti-inflammatory activity, and autophagy activation.
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