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Liu MH, Zhao NN, Yu WT, Qiu JG, Jiang BH, Zhang Y, Zhang CY. Construction of a label-free fluorescent biosensor for homogeneous detection of m 6A eraser FTO in breast cancer tissues. Talanta 2024; 272:125784. [PMID: 38364555 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.125784] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) is a crucial eraser of RNA N6- methyladenosine (m6A) modification, and abnormal FTO expression level is implicated in pathogenesis of numerous cancers. Herein, we demonstrate the construction of a label-free fluorescent biosensor for homogeneous detection of m6A eraser FTO in breast cancer tissues. When FTO is present, it specifically erases the methyl group in m6A, inducing the cleavage of demethylated DNA by endonuclease DpnII and the generation of a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) with a 3'-hydroxyl group. Subsequently, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) promotes the incorporation of dTTPs into the ssDNA to obtain a long polythymidine (T) DNA sequence. The resultant long poly (T) DNA sequence can act as a template to trigger hyperbranched strand displacement amplification (HSDA), yielding numerous DNA fragments that may be stained by SYBR Gold to produce an enhanced fluorescence signal. This biosensor processes ultrahigh sensitivity with a detection limit of 1.65 × 10-10 mg/mL (2.6 fM), and it can detect the FTO activity in a single MCF-7 cell. Moreover, this biosensor can screen the FTO inhibitors, evaluate enzyme kinetic parameters, and discriminate the FTO expression levels in the tissues of breast cancer patients and healthy persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hao Liu
- Translational Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, The Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China; College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China; College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu Normal University, Jinan, 250200, China
| | - Ning-Ning Zhao
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Wan-Tong Yu
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Jian-Ge Qiu
- Translational Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, The Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Bing-Hua Jiang
- Translational Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, The Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu Normal University, Jinan, 250200, China.
| | - Chun-Yang Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
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2
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Höfler S, Duss O. Interconnections between m 6A RNA modification, RNA structure, and protein-RNA complex assembly. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302240. [PMID: 37935465 PMCID: PMC10629537 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302240] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein-RNA complexes exist in many forms within the cell, from stable machines such as the ribosome to transient assemblies like the spliceosome. All protein-RNA assemblies rely on spatially and temporally coordinated interactions between specific proteins and RNAs to achieve a functional form. RNA folding and structure are often critical for successful protein binding and protein-RNA complex formation. RNA modifications change the chemical nature of a given RNA and often alter its folding kinetics. Both these alterations can affect how and if proteins or other RNAs can interact with the modified RNA and assemble into complexes. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common base modification on mRNAs and regulatory noncoding RNAs and has been shown to impact RNA structure and directly modulate protein-RNA interactions. In this review, focusing on the mechanisms and available quantitative information, we discuss first how the METTL3/14 m6A writer complex is specifically targeted to RNA assisted by protein-RNA and other interactions to enable site-specific and co-transcriptional RNA modification and, once introduced, how the m6A modification affects RNA folding and protein-RNA interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Höfler
- https://ror.org/03mstc592 Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Olivier Duss
- https://ror.org/03mstc592 Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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3
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Peng Z, Ma J, Christov CZ, Karabencheva-Christova T, Lehnert N, Li D. Kinetic Studies on the 2-Oxoglutarate/Fe(II)-Dependent Nucleic Acid Modifying Enzymes from the AlkB and TET Families. DNA 2023; 3:65-84. [PMID: 38698914 PMCID: PMC11065319 DOI: 10.3390/dna3020005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Nucleic acid methylations are important genetic and epigenetic biomarkers. The formation and removal of these markers is related to either methylation or demethylation. In this review, we focus on the demethylation or oxidative modification that is mediated by the 2-oxoglutarate (2-OG)/Fe(II)-dependent AlkB/TET family enzymes. In the catalytic process, most enzymes oxidize 2-OG to succinate, in the meantime oxidizing methyl to hydroxymethyl, leaving formaldehyde and generating demethylated base. The AlkB enzyme from Escherichia coli has nine human homologs (ALKBH1-8 and FTO) and the TET family includes three members, TET1 to 3. Among them, some enzymes have been carefully studied, but for certain enzymes, few studies have been carried out. This review focuses on the kinetic properties of those 2-OG/Fe(II)-dependent enzymes and their alkyl substrates. We also provide some discussions on the future directions of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Peng
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Jian Ma
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Christo Z. Christov
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | | | - Nicolai Lehnert
- Department of Chemistry and Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Deyu Li
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
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4
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Goh Y, Choi JH. Genetic variation rs1121980 in the fat mass and obesity-associated gene ( FTO) is associated with dietary intake in Koreans. Food Nutr Res 2022; 66:8059. [PMID: 36590860 PMCID: PMC9793768 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v66.8059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) is a well-known gene associated with body weight and obesity risk. Recent studies have suggested that genetic variations in FTO may play a role in the regulation of food preference and consumption. However, little is known with respect to Asian populations. Objective This study examined whether rs1121980 C > T in FTO is associated with food intake in Koreans. Design This study was performed using data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (Ansan/Ansung cohort). Dietary intake was determined using the semi-food frequency questionnaire, and the FTO rs1121980 genotypes of 6,262 individuals (3,049 males and 3,213 females) were analyzed along with sex and body mass index (BMI). Result Genetic variation did not show a significant association with the population's energy-nutrient intake. However, female T allele carriers with BMI ≥ 25 consumed more blue fish and coffee, and their coffee creamer consumption was decisively higher than that of T allele non-carriers (P adjusted = 0.004). In males, the presence of the T allele showed a putative association with the consumption of sweets, snacks, and coffee creamer by the BMI level. Conclusion The FTO rs1121980 variation was associated with a preference for foods particularly high in fat (e.g. coffee creamer, blue fish, sweets, and snacks) in Koreans; these preferences varied by sex and BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeong-Hwa Choi
- Jeong-Hwa Choi, Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Dalseogu, Daegu 42601, Korea. Tel: +82-53-580-5913, Fax: +82-53-580-6286.
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5
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D’Aquila P, De Rango F, Paparazzo E, Mandalà M, Bellizzi D, Passarino G. Impact of Nutrition on Age-Related Epigenetic RNA Modifications in Rats. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14061232. [PMID: 35334889 PMCID: PMC8955587 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutrition plastically modulates the epigenetic landscape in various tissues of an organism during life via epigenetic changes. In the present study, to clarify whether this modulation involves RNA methylation, we evaluated global RNA methylation profiles and the expression of writer, reader, and eraser genes, encoding for enzymes involved in the RNA methylation. The study was carried out in the heart, liver, and kidney samples from rats of different ages in response to a low-calorie diet. We found that, although each tissue showed peculiar RNA methylation levels, a general increase in these levels was observed throughout the lifespan as well as in response to the six-month diet. Similarly, a prominent remodeling of the expression of writer, reader, and eraser genes emerged. Our data provide a comprehensive overview of the role exerted by diet on the tissue-specific epigenetic plasticity of RNA according to aging in rats, providing the first evidence that methylation of RNA, similarly to DNA methylation, can represent an effective biomarker of aging. What is more, the fact that it is regulated by nutrition provides the basis for the development of targeted approaches capable of guaranteeing the maintenance of a state of good health.
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Metabolic enzymes function as epigenetic modulators: A Trojan Horse for chromatin regulation and gene expression. Pharmacol Res 2021; 173:105834. [PMID: 34450321 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic modification is a fundamental biological process in living organisms, which has significant impact on health and behavior. Metabolism refers to a set of life-sustaining chemical reactions, including the uptake of nutrients, the subsequent conversion of nutrients into energy or building blocks for organism growth, and finally the clearance of redundant or toxic substances. It is well established that epigenetic modifications govern the metabolic profile of a cell by modulating the expression of metabolic enzymes. Strikingly, almost all the epigenetic modifications require substrates produced by cellular metabolism, and a large proportion of metabolic enzymes can transfer into nucleus to locally produce substrates for epigenetic modification, thereby providing an alternative link between metabolism, epigenetic modification and gene expression. Here, we summarize the recent literature pertinent to metabolic enzymes functioning as epigenetic modulators in the regulation of chromatin architecture and gene expression.
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7
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Kim J, Lee G. Metabolic Control of m 6A RNA Modification. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11020080. [PMID: 33573224 PMCID: PMC7911930 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11020080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutrients and metabolic pathways regulate cell growth and cell fate decisions via epigenetic modification of DNA and histones. Another key genetic material, RNA, also contains diverse chemical modifications. Among these, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent and evolutionarily conserved RNA modification. It functions in various aspects of developmental and disease states, by controlling RNA metabolism, such as stability and translation. Similar to other epigenetic processes, m6A modification is regulated by specific enzymes, including writers (methyltransferases), erasers (demethylases), and readers (m6A-binding proteins). As this is a reversible enzymatic process, metabolites can directly influence the flux of this reaction by serving as substrates and/or allosteric regulators. In this review, we will discuss recent understanding of the regulation of m6A RNA modification by metabolites, nutrients, and cellular metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joohwan Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA;
| | - Gina Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Correspondence:
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8
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Biamonti G, Maita L, Montecucco A. The Krebs Cycle Connection: Reciprocal Influence Between Alternative Splicing Programs and Cell Metabolism. Front Oncol 2018; 8:408. [PMID: 30319972 PMCID: PMC6168629 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing is a pervasive mechanism that molds the transcriptome to meet cell and organism needs. However, how this layer of gene expression regulation is coordinated with other aspects of the cell metabolism is still largely undefined. Glucose is the main energy and carbon source of the cell. Not surprisingly, its metabolism is finely tuned to satisfy growth requirements and in response to nutrient availability. A number of studies have begun to unveil the connections between glucose metabolism and splicing programs. Alternative splicing modulates the ratio between M1 and M2 isoforms of pyruvate kinase in this way determining the choice between aerobic glycolysis and complete glucose oxidation in the Krebs cycle. Reciprocally, intermediates in the Krebs cycle may impact splicing programs at different levels by modulating the activity of 2-oxoglutarate-dependent oxidases. In this review we discuss the molecular mechanisms that coordinate alternative splicing programs with glucose metabolism, two aspects with profound implications in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Biamonti
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lucia Maita
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pavia, Italy
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9
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Howard SR, Guasti L, Poliandri A, David A, Cabrera CP, Barnes MR, Wehkalampi K, O’Rahilly S, Aiken CE, Coll AP, Ma M, Rimmington D, Yeo GSH, Dunkel L. Contributions of Function-Altering Variants in Genes Implicated in Pubertal Timing and Body Mass for Self-Limited Delayed Puberty. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:649-659. [PMID: 29161441 PMCID: PMC5800831 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-02147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Self-limited delayed puberty (DP) is often associated with a delay in physical maturation, but although highly heritable the causal genetic factors remain elusive. Genome-wide association studies of the timing of puberty have identified multiple loci for age at menarche in females and voice break in males, particularly in pathways controlling energy balance. OBJECTIVE/MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We sought to assess the contribution of rare variants in such genes to the phenotype of familial DP. DESIGN/PATIENTS We performed whole-exome sequencing in 67 pedigrees (125 individuals with DP and 35 unaffected controls) from our unique cohort of familial self-limited DP. Using a whole-exome sequencing filtering pipeline one candidate gene [fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO)] was identified. In silico, in vitro, and mouse model studies were performed to investigate the pathogenicity of FTO variants and timing of puberty in FTO+/- mice. RESULTS We identified potentially pathogenic, rare variants in genes in linkage disequilibrium with genome-wide association studies of age at menarche loci in 283 genes. Of these, five genes were implicated in the control of body mass. After filtering for segregation with trait, one candidate, FTO, was retained. Two FTO variants, found in 14 affected individuals from three families, were also associated with leanness in these patients with DP. One variant (p.Leu44Val) demonstrated altered demethylation activity of the mutant protein in vitro. Fto+/- mice displayed a significantly delayed timing of pubertal onset (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Mutations in genes implicated in body mass and timing of puberty in the general population may contribute to the pathogenesis of self-limited DP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha R. Howard
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Ariel Poliandri
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alessia David
- Centre for Integrative Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Claudia P. Cabrera
- Centre for Translational Bioinformatics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Barts Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Michael R. Barnes
- Centre for Translational Bioinformatics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research Barts Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Karoliina Wehkalampi
- Children’s Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, FIN-00029 HUS Helsinki, Finland
| | - Stephen O’Rahilly
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine E. Aiken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SW, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research, Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony P. Coll
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Marcella Ma
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Debra Rimmington
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Giles S. H. Yeo
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Leo Dunkel
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
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10
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Zhou Y, Hambly BD, McLachlan CS. FTO associations with obesity and telomere length. J Biomed Sci 2017; 24:65. [PMID: 28859657 PMCID: PMC5580219 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-017-0372-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This review examines the biology of the Fat mass- and obesity-associated gene (FTO), and the implications of genetic association of FTO SNPs with obesity and genetic aging. Notably, we focus on the role of FTO in the regulation of methylation status as possible regulators of weight gain and genetic aging. We present a theoretical review of the FTO gene with a particular emphasis on associations with UCP2, AMPK, RBL2, IRX3, CUX1, mTORC1 and hormones involved in hunger regulation. These associations are important for dietary behavior regulation and cellular nutrient sensing via amino acids. We suggest that these pathways may also influence telomere regulation. Telomere length (TL) attrition may be influenced by obesity-related inflammation and oxidative stress, and FTO gene-involved pathways. There is additional emerging evidence to suggest that telomere length and obesity are bi-directionally associated. However, the role of obesity risk-related genotypes and associations with TL are not well understood. The FTO gene may influence pathways implicated in regulation of TL, which could help to explain some of the non-consistent relationship between weight phenotype and telomere length that is observed in population studies investigating obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Zhou
- Rural Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Brett D Hambly
- Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Craig S McLachlan
- Rural Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia.
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11
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Yang Q, Xiao T, Guo J, Su Z. Complex Relationship between Obesity and the Fat Mass and Obesity Locus. Int J Biol Sci 2017; 13:615-629. [PMID: 28539834 PMCID: PMC5441178 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.17051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In the 21st century, obesity has become a serious problem because of increasing obese patients and numerous metabolic complications. The primary reasons for this situation are environmental and genetic factors. In 2007, FTO (fat mass and obesity associated) was the first gene identified through a genome-wide association study (GWAS) associated with obesity in humans. Subsequently, a cluster of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the first intron of the FTO gene was discovered to be associated with BMI and body composition. Various studies have explored the mechanistic basis behind this association. Thus, emerging evidence showed that FTO plays a key role regulating adipose tissue development and functions in body size and composition. Recent prevalent research topic concentrated in the three neighboring genes of FTO: RPGRIP1L, IRX3 and IRX5, as having a functional link between obesity-associated common variants within FTO and the observed human phenotypes. The purpose of this review is to present a comprehensive picture of the impact of FTO on obesity susceptibility and to illuminate these new studies of FTO function in adipose tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Yang
- Key Research Center of Liver Regulation for Hyperlipidemia SATCM/Class III Laboratory of Metabolism SATCM, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Tiancun Xiao
- Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford University, South Parks Road, OX1 3QR, United Kingdom.,Guangzhou Boxabio Technology Ltd, Guangzhou Science City, P R China
| | - Jiao Guo
- Key Research Center of Liver Regulation for Hyperlipidemia SATCM/Class III Laboratory of Metabolism SATCM, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhengquan Su
- Key Research Center of Liver Regulation for Hyperlipidemia SATCM/Class III Laboratory of Metabolism SATCM, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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12
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Yang T, Cheong A, Mai X, Zou S, Woon ECY. A methylation-switchable conformational probe for the sensitive and selective detection of RNA demethylase activity. Chem Commun (Camb) 2016; 52:6181-4. [PMID: 27074833 DOI: 10.1039/c6cc01045h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
We describe a novel methylation-sensitive nucleic acid (RNA) probe which switches conformation according to its methylation status. When combined with a differential scanning fluorimetry technique, it enables highly sensitive and selective detection of demethylase activity at a single methylated-base level. The approach is highly versatile and may be adapted to a broad range of RNA demethylases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianming Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, 18 Science Drive 4, 117 543, Singapore.
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13
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Okamoto A. Nucleic Acid Reaction Chemistry to Clarify the Fluctuating Quality and Quantity of Nucleic Acids. J SYN ORG CHEM JPN 2016. [DOI: 10.5059/yukigoseikyokaishi.74.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Akimitsu Okamoto
- Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo
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14
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Jeong HS, Hayashi G, Okamoto A. Diazirine photocrosslinking recruits activated FTO demethylase complexes for specific N(6)-methyladenosine recognition. ACS Chem Biol 2015; 10:1450-5. [PMID: 25751089 DOI: 10.1021/cb5010096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
N(6)-methyladenosine (m(6)A) is a prevalent modification of RNAs. m(6)A exists in mRNA and plays an important role in RNA biological pathways and in RNA epigenetic regulation. We applied diazirine photocrosslinking to the event of m(6)A recognition mediated by the fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) demethylase. A highly photoreactive diazirine adjacent to m(6)A on the RNA successfully recruited activated FTO complexes with an m(6)A preference. The process of recognition of m(6)A via FTO using diazirine photocrosslinking was controlled by the α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) cosubstrate and the Fe(II) cofactor, which are involved in m(6)A oxidative demethylation. In addition, FTO bound to ssRNAs prior to the m(6)A recognition process. Diazirine photocrosslinking contributes to increasing the chances of capturing activated FTO complexes with specific m(6)A recognition and provides new insights into the dynamic FTO oxidative demethylation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Seok Jeong
- Research
Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8904, Japan
| | - Gosuke Hayashi
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Okamoto
- Research
Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8904, Japan
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
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15
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Abstract
A cluster of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the first intron of the fat mass and obesity related (FTO) gene were the first common variants discovered to be associated with body mass index and body fatness. This review summarises what has been later discovered about the biology of FTO drawing together information from both human and animal studies. Subsequent work showed that the 'at risk' alleles of these SNPs are associated with greater food intake and increased hunger/lowered satiety, but are not associated with altered resting energy expenditure or low physical activity in humans. FTO is an FE (II) and 2-oxoglutarate dependent DNA/RNA methylase. Contrasting the impact of the SNPs on energy balance in humans, knocking out or reducing activity of the Fto gene in the mouse resulted in lowered adiposity, elevated energy expenditure with no impact on food intake (but the impact on expenditure is disputed). In contrast, overexpression of the gene in mice led to elevated food intake and adiposity, with no impact on expenditure. In rodents, the Fto gene is widely expressed in the brain including hypothalamic nuclei linked to food intake regulation. Since its activity is 2-oxoglutarate dependent it could potentially act as a sensor of citrate acid cycle flux, but this function has been dismissed, and instead it has been suggested to be much more likely to act as an amino acid sensor, linking circulating AAs to the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1. This may be fundamental to its role in development but the link to obesity is less clear. It has been recently suggested that although the obesity related SNPs reside in the first intron of FTO, they may not only impact FTO but mediate their obesity effects via nearby genes (notably RPGRIP1L and IRX3).
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Speakman
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Beichen xilu, Chaoyang, Beijing, China.
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Ave, Aberdeen, Scotland, AB24 2TZ, UK.
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16
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Kuiper C, Vissers MCM. Ascorbate as a co-factor for fe- and 2-oxoglutarate dependent dioxygenases: physiological activity in tumor growth and progression. Front Oncol 2014; 4:359. [PMID: 25540771 PMCID: PMC4261134 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2014.00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ascorbate is a specific co-factor for a large family of enzymes known as the Fe- and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases. These enzymes are found throughout biology and catalyze the addition of a hydroxyl group to various substrates. The proline hydroxylase that is involved in collagen maturation is well known, but in recent times many new enzymes and functions have been uncovered, including those involved in epigenetic control and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) regulation. These discoveries have provided crucial mechanistic insights into how ascorbate may affect tumor biology. In particular, there is growing evidence that HIF-1-dependent tumor progression may be inhibited by increasing tumor ascorbate levels. However, rigorous clinical intervention studies are lacking. This review will explore the physiological role of ascorbate as an enzyme co-factor and how this mechanism relates to cancer biology and treatment. The use of ascorbate in cancer should be informed by clinical studies based on such mechanistic hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kuiper
- Department of Pathology, Centre for Free Radical Research, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Margreet C. M. Vissers
- Department of Pathology, Centre for Free Radical Research, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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17
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Yeo GSH. The role of the FTO (Fat Mass and Obesity Related) locus in regulating body size and composition. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 397:34-41. [PMID: 25224490 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Genomewide association studies (GWAS) have indicated that SNPs on a chromosome 16 locus encompassing FTO, as well as IRX3, 5, 6, FTM and FTL are robustly associated with human obesity. GWAS, however, are by nature gene agnostic, and SNPs reaching the appropriate statistical threshold for a given phenotype can appear anywhere in the genome, within, near or far away from any coding sequence. Thus a major challenge in the field has been to translate these statistical hits into real biological insight. The key question is which of these genes are responsible for the association with obesity, and what is the underlying mechanism? With loss of function FTO mutations in both mice and humans resulting in severe growth retardation and mice globally over-expressing FTO being obese, the initial attention was focussed on this gene. We and others have shown that in vitro, recombinant FTO is able to catalyse the Fe(II)- and 2OG-dependent demethylation of single stranded nucleic-acids, with a preference for RNA. We have shown that FTO expression is regulated by essential amino acids (AAs) and that it couples amino acid levels to mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1) signalling, through a mechanism dependent on its ability to demethylate. Thus FTO is an AA sensor and plays a key role regulating appropriate growth and translation. However, recent data focussing on obesity associated variants within FTO have implicated two neighbouring genes, RPGRIP1L and IRX3, as having a functional link between the SNP and the observed human phenotypes. As with Fto, perturbing the expression of these genes in mice results in a bodyweight phenotype, with homozygous deletion of Irx3 resulting in a smaller mouse and heterozygous deletion of Rpgrip1l leading to a mild obesity phenotype. Thus it may be that a number of genes in this region play an important role in determining body composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giles S H Yeo
- MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK.
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18
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Hess ME, Brüning JC. The fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene: Obesity and beyond? Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2014; 1842:2039-47. [PMID: 24518103 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2014.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Genome wide association studies undoubtedly linked variants of the fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) to obesity. To date, however, knowledge on the mechanisms coupling variants in the intron of the FTO gene to its expression or enzymatic activity to alter metabolism remains scarce. Until recently, the investigation of the molecular function of FTO had not led to conclusive results concerning the 'where', 'when' and 'how' of FTO activity. Finally, since FTO was identified as a RNA modifying enzyme, demethylating N6-methyladenosine on single stranded RNA, novel understanding of the molecular function is gathered. These and other studies suggest the requirement for a further reaching approach to further investigate FTO function, since the phenotype of aberrant FTO function may encompass more than just obesity. Taking these new insights and translating them into appropriate paradigms for functional research in humans may lead to a deeper understanding of the human physiology and disease. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: From Genome to Function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin E Hess
- Max Planck Institute for Neurological Research, D-50931 Cologne, Germany; Department of Mouse Genetics and Metabolism, Institute for Genetics, Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), D-50674 Cologne, Germany; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), D-50931 Cologne, Germany; Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (CEDP), University Hospital of Cologne, D-50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jens C Brüning
- Max Planck Institute for Neurological Research, D-50931 Cologne, Germany; Department of Mouse Genetics and Metabolism, Institute for Genetics, Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), D-50674 Cologne, Germany; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), D-50931 Cologne, Germany; Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (CEDP), University Hospital of Cologne, D-50931 Cologne, Germany.
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Abstract
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that cluster in the first intron of fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) gene are associated obesity traits in genome-wide association studies. The minor allele increases BMI by 0.39 kg/m(2) (or 1,130 g in body weight) and risk of obesity by 1.20-fold. This association has been confirmed across age groups and populations of diverse ancestry; the largest effect is seen in young adulthood. The effect of FTO SNPs on obesity traits in populations of African and Asian ancestry is similar or somewhat smaller than in European ancestry populations. However, the BMI-increasing allele in FTO is substantially less prevalent in populations with non-European ancestry. FTO SNPs do not influence physical activity levels; yet, in physically active individuals, FTO's effect on obesity susceptibility is attenuated by approximately 30%. Evidence from epidemiological and functional studies suggests that FTO confers an increased risk of obesity by subtly changing food intake and preference. Moreover, emerging data suggest a role for FTO in nutrient sensing, regulation of mRNA translation and general growth. In this Review, we discuss the genetic epidemiology of FTO and discuss how its complex biology might link to the regulation of body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth J F Loos
- The Genetics of Obesity and Related Metabolic Traits Program, The Charles Bronfman Institute for Personalized Medicine, The Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1003, New York, NY 10029-6574, USA
| | - Giles S H Yeo
- MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Box 289, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
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20
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Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have revealed that single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the first intron of the gene encoding fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) are robustly associated with BMI and obesity. Subsequently, this association with body weight, which is replicable across multiple populations and different age groups, has been unequivocally linked to increased food intake. Although evidence from a number of animal models with perturbed FTO expression indicates a role for FTO in energy homeostasis, to date, no conclusive link has been made between the risk alleles and FTO expression or its physiological role. FTO is a nucleic acid demethylase, and a deficiency in FTO leads to a complex phenotype highlighted by postnatal growth retardation, pointing to some fundamental developmental role. Recent emerging data now points to a role for FTO in the sensing of nutrients and the regulation of translation and growth. In this review, we explore the in vivo and in vitro evidence detailing the complex biology of FTO and discuss how these might link to the regulation of body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawan Gulati
- MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Level 4, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Box 289, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Giles S. H. Yeo
- MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Level 4, Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Box 289, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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21
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Speakman JR. Functional analysis of seven genes linked to body mass index and adiposity by genome-wide association studies: a review. Hum Hered 2013; 75:57-79. [PMID: 24081222 DOI: 10.1159/000353585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified a total of about 40 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that show significant linkage to body mass index, a widely utilised surrogate measure of adiposity. However, only 8 of these associations have been confirmed by follow-up GWAS using more sophisticated measures of adiposity (computed tomography). Among these 8, there is a SNP close to the gene FTO which has been the subject of considerable work to diagnose its function. The remaining 7 SNPs are adjacent to, or within, the genes NEGR1, TMEM18, ETV5, FLJ35779, LINGO2, SH2B1 and GIPR, most of which are less well studied than FTO, particularly in the context of obesity. This article reviews the available data on the functions of these genes, including information gleaned from studies in humans and animal models. At present, we have virtually no information on the putative mechanism associating the genes FLJ35779 and LINGO2 to obesity. All of these genes are expressed in the brain, and for 2 of them (SH2B1 and GIPR), a direct link to the appetite regulation system is known. SH2B1 is an enhancer of intracellular signalling in the JAK-STAT pathway, and GIPR is the receptor for an appetite-linked hormone (GIP) produced by the alimentary tract. NEGR1, ETV5 and SH2B1 all have suggested roles in neurite outgrowth, and hence SNPs adjacent to these genes may affect development of the energy balance circuitry. Although the genes have central patterns of gene expression, implying a central neuronal connection to energy balance, for at least 4 of them (NEGR1, TMEM18, SH2B1 and GIPR), there are also significant peripheral functions related to adipose tissue biology. These functions may contribute to their effects on the obese phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Speakman
- Key State Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China; Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Yeo GS, O'Rahilly S. Uncovering the biology of FTO. Mol Metab 2012; 1:32-6. [PMID: 24024116 PMCID: PMC3757649 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2012.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Revised: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have revealed that SNPs in the first intron of FTO (Fat mass and Obesity related) are robustly associated with body mass index and obesity. Subsequently, it has become clear that this association with body weight, and increasingly food intake, is replicable across multiple populations and different age groups. However, to date, no conclusive link has been made between the risk alleles and FTO expression or its physiological role. FTO deficiency leads to a complex phenotype including postnatal mortality and growth retardation, pointing to some fundamental developmental role. Yet, the weight of evidence from a number of animal models where FTO expression has been perturbed indicates some role for FTO in energy homoeostasis. In addition, emerging data points to a role for FTO in the sensing of nutrients. In this review, we explore the in vivo and in vitro evidence detailing FTO's different faces and discuss how these might link to the regulation of body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giles S.H. Yeo
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Stephen O'Rahilly
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
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