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Yılmaz M, Bebek O, Turkyilmaz A. Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome with Biallelic c.1295A>G (p.Tyr432Cys) Variant in the DHCR7 Gene in a 73-Year-Old Woman: Report of the Oldest Patient. Mol Syndromol 2024; 15:317-323. [PMID: 39119449 PMCID: PMC11305663 DOI: 10.1159/000536343] [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: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS), a genetic developmental disorder characterized by various congenital anomalies, arises from a loss of normal DHCR7 enzymatic action in cholesterol biosynthesis. This syndrome is typically marked by various congenital anomalies, including microcephaly with cognitive impairments, distinctive facial features, and syndactyly of the toes (2-3 fusion). Case Presentation A 73-year-old woman, followed up on by the neurology clinic for the last 3 years for amnesia and movement disorders, was referred to our clinic for genetic etiology investigation. Although there were no significant dysmorphic findings on her physical examination, observations included partial syndactyly between the second and third toes of both feet, a wide forehead, and a triangular face. We used the whole-exome sequencing (WES) analysis to evaluate the patient because of their various phenotype, which included dysmorphic features, movement problems, recurrent hip dislocation, mild intellectual impairment. WES analysis revealed a homozygous missense c.1295A>G (p.Tyr432Cys) variation in DHCR7 gene. Discussion A total of 9 patients with p.Tyr432Cys variant have been reported in the literature so far. The present case is the first patient with biallelic c.1295A>G (p.Tyr432Cys) variation in DHCR7 gene in the current literature. Diagnosing the disorder can be challenging, particularly in its milder manifestations, given the extensive range of clinical presentations. The present case is the oldest patient with SLOS reported in the relevant literature. Mild dysmorphic features, mild intellectual disability, and recurrent hip dislocation, along with the typical finding of syndactyly between the second and third toes in the foot, may indicate mild forms of SLOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Yılmaz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Ogun Bebek
- Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Ayberk Turkyilmaz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
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Maddhesiya J, Mohapatra B. Understanding the Genetic and Non-Genetic Interconnections in the Aetiology of Syndromic Congenital Heart Disease: An Updated Review: Part 2. Curr Cardiol Rep 2024; 26:167-178. [PMID: 38358608 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-024-02020-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Approximately 30% of syndromic cases diagnosed with CHD, which lure us to further investigate the molecular and clinical challenges behind syndromic CHD (sCHD). The aetiology of sCHD in a majority of cases remains enigmatic due to involvement of multiple factors, namely genetic, epigenetic and environmental modifiable risk factors for the development of the disease. Here, we aim to update the role of genetic contributors including chromosomal abnormalities, copy number variations (CNVs) and single gene mutations in cardiac specific genes, maternal lifestyle conditions, environmental exposures and epigenetic modifiers in causing CHD in different genetic syndromes. RECENT FINDINGS The exact aetiology of sCHD is still unknown. With the advancement of next-generation technologies including WGS, WES, transcriptome, proteome and methylome study, numerous novel genes and pathways have been identified. Moreover, our recent knowledge regarding epigenetic and environmental regulation during cardiogenesis is still evolving and may solve some of the mystery behind complex sCHD. Here, we focus to understand how the complex combination of genetic, environmental and epigenetic factors interact to interfere with developmental pathways, culminating into cardiac and extracardiac defects in sCHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Maddhesiya
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bhagyalaxmi Mohapatra
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Li A, Tomita H, Xu L. Temporal gene expression changes and affected pathways in neurodevelopment of a mouse model of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.21.568116. [PMID: 38045361 PMCID: PMC10690207 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.21.568116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder that arises from mutations in the gene DHCR7, which encodes the terminal enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis, leading to decreased production of cholesterol and accumulation of the cholesterol precursor, 7-dehydrocholesterol, and its oxysterol metabolites. The disorder displays a wide range of neurodevelopmental defects, intellectual disability, and behavioral problems. However, an in-depth study on the temporal changes of gene expression in the developing brains of SLOS mice has not been done before. In this work, we carried out the transcriptomic analysis of whole brains from WT and Dhcr7-KO mice at four-time points through postnatal day 0. First, we observed the expected downregulation of the Dhcr7 gene in the Dhcr7-KO mouse model, as well as gene expression changes of several other genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis throughout all time points. Pathway and GO term enrichment analyses revealed affected signaling pathways and biological processes that were shared amongst time points and unique to individual time points. Specifically, the pathways important for embryonic development, including Hippo, Wnt, and TGF-β signaling pathways are the most significantly affected at the earliest time point, E12.5. Additionally, neurogenesis-related GO terms were enriched in earlier time points, consistent with the timing of development. Conversely, pathways related to synaptogenesis, which occurs later in development compared to neurogenesis, are significantly affected at the later time points, E16.5 and PND0, including the cholinergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic synapses. The impact of these transcriptomic changes and enriched pathways is discussed in the context of known biological phenotypes of SLOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Hideaki Tomita
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Libin Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
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Sun B, Reynolds KS, Garland MA, McMahon M, Saha SK, Zhou CJ. Epigenetic implications in maternal diabetes and metabolic syndrome-associated risk of orofacial clefts. Birth Defects Res 2023; 115:1835-1850. [PMID: 37497595 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2226] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are one of the most common types of structural birth defects. The etiologies are complicated, involving with genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Studies have found that maternal diabetes and metabolic syndrome are associated with a higher risk of OFCs in offspring. Metabolic syndrome is a clustering of several disease risk factors, including hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, obesity, and hypertension. Metabolic disease during pregnancy can increase risk of adverse outcomes and significantly influence fetal development, including orofacial formation and fusion. An altered metabolic state may contribute to developmental disorders or congenital defects including OFCs, potentially through epigenetic modulations, such as histone modification, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNA expression to alter activities of critical morphogenetic signaling or related developmental genes. This review summarizes the currently available evidence and underlying mechanisms of how the maternal metabolic syndrome is associated with OFCs in mostly human and some animal studies. It may provide a better understanding of the interactions between intrauterine metabolic status and fetal orofacial development which might be applied toward prevention and treatments of OFCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Kurt S Reynolds
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Michael A Garland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Moira McMahon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Subbroto K Saha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Chengji J Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
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Meza U, Romero-Méndez C, Sánchez-Armáss S, Rodríguez-Menchaca AA. Role of rafts in neurological disorders. Neurologia 2023; 38:671-680. [PMID: 37858892 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2023.10.003] [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: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rafts are protein-lipid structural nanodomains involved in efficient signal transduction and the modulation of physiological processes of the cell plasma membrane. Raft disruption in the nervous system has been associated with a wide range of disorders. DEVELOPMENT We review the concept of rafts, the nervous system processes in which they are involved, and their role in diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer disease, and Huntington disease. CONCLUSIONS Based on the available evidence, preservation and/or reconstitution of rafts is a promising treatment strategy for a wide range of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Meza
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.
| | - C Romero-Méndez
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.
| | - S Sánchez-Armáss
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.
| | - A A Rodríguez-Menchaca
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study collects what is known about the inheritance underpinnings of syndromic and non-syndromic polydactylies and highlights dactyly presentations with unknown genetic roots. This review summarizes the current information and genetics-enhanced understanding of polydactyly. BACKGROUND There is a frequency of 0.37 to 1.2 per 1000 live births for polydactyly, which is also known as hyperdactyly. It is characterized by the presence of extra fingers. Polydactyly is caused by a failure in limb development, specifically the patterning of the developing limb bud. The phenotypic and genetic variability of polydactyly makes its etiology difficult to understand. Pre-axial polydactyly, central polydactyly (axial), and postaxial polydactyly are all examples of non-syndromic polydactyly (ulnar). An autosomal dominant disorder with varying penetrance that is mostly passed down via limb development patterning abnormalities. METHOD A comprehensive search of MEDLINE/PubMed and other databases was followed by an evaluation of the relevant papers, with a particular focus on those published between 2000 and 2022. RESULTS Of 747 published article related to Polydactyly from MEDLINE/PubMed search, 43 were from the last 10 years and were the focus of this review. CONCLUSION Polydactyly is one of the most frequent congenital hand malformations. PAP is more common than PPD, whereas central polydactyly is very uncommon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalal K Bubshait
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Dalal K Bubshait, Consultant Paediatrician and Clinical Geneticist, Assistant Professor, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, King Fahad Hospital of the University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia (e-mail: )
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Findakly S, Daggubati V, Garcia G, LaStella SA, Choudhury A, Tran C, Li A, Tong P, Garcia JQ, Puri N, Reiter JF, Xu L, Raleigh DR. Sterol and oxysterol synthases near the ciliary base activate the Hedgehog pathway. J Cell Biol 2021; 220:211576. [PMID: 33284321 PMCID: PMC7721912 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202002026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate Hedgehog signals are transduced through the primary cilium, a specialized lipid microdomain that is required for Smoothened activation. Cilia-associated sterol and oxysterol lipids bind to Smoothened to activate the Hedgehog pathway, but how ciliary lipids are regulated is incompletely understood. Here we identified DHCR7, an enzyme that produces cholesterol, activates the Hedgehog pathway, and localizes near the ciliary base. We found that Hedgehog stimulation negatively regulates DHCR7 activity and removes DHCR7 from the ciliary microenvironment, suggesting that DHCR7 primes cilia for Hedgehog pathway activation. In contrast, we found that Hedgehog stimulation positively regulates the oxysterol synthase CYP7A1, which accumulates near the ciliary base and produces oxysterols that promote Hedgehog signaling in response to pathway activation. Our results reveal that enzymes involved in lipid biosynthesis in the ciliary microenvironment promote Hedgehog signaling, shedding light on how ciliary lipids are established and regulated to transduce Hedgehog signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Findakly
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Vikas Daggubati
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Galo Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sydney A LaStella
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Abrar Choudhury
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Cecilia Tran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Amy Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Pakteema Tong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Jason Q Garcia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Natasha Puri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jeremy F Reiter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA
| | - Libin Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - David R Raleigh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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Meza U, Romero-Méndez C, Sánchez-Armáss S, Rodríguez-Menchaca AA. Role of rafts in neurological disorders. Neurologia 2021; 38:S0213-4853(21)00024-4. [PMID: 33726969 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2021.01.008] [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: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rafts are function-structural cell membrane nano-domains. They contribute to explain the efficiency of signal transduction at the low physiological membrane concentrations of the signaling partners by their clustering inside specialized signaling domains. DEVELOPMENT In this article, we review the current model of the membrane rafts and their physio-pathological relevance in the nervous system, including their role in Parkinson, Alzheimer, and Huntington diseases. CONCLUSIONS Rafts disruption/dysfunction has been shown to relate diverse neurological diseases. Therefore, it has been suggested that preservation of membrane rafts may represent a strategy to prevent or delay neuronal dysfunctions in several diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Meza
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica. Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.
| | - C Romero-Méndez
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica. Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México
| | - S Sánchez-Armáss
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica. Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México
| | - A A Rodríguez-Menchaca
- Departamento de Fisiología y Biofísica. Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México
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Ochsner SA, McKenna NJ. No Dataset Left Behind: Mechanistic Insights into Thyroid Receptor Signaling Through Transcriptomic Consensome Meta-Analysis. Thyroid 2020; 30:621-639. [PMID: 31910096 PMCID: PMC7187985 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2019.0307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Discovery-scale omics datasets relevant to thyroid receptors (TRs) and their physiological and synthetic bioactive small-molecule ligands allow for genome-wide interrogation of TR-regulated genes. These datasets have considerable collective value as a reference resource to allow researchers to routinely generate hypotheses addressing the mechanisms underlying the cell biology and physiology of TR signaling in normal and disease states. Methods: Here, we searched the Gene Expression Omnibus database to identify a population of publicly archived transcriptomic datasets involving genetic or pharmacological manipulation of either TR isoform in a mouse tissue or cell line. After initial quality control, samples were organized into contrasts (experiments), and transcript differential expression values and associated measures of significance were generated and committed to a consensome (for consensus omics) meta-analysis pipeline. To gain insight into tissue-selective functions of TRs, we generated liver- and central nervous system (CNS)-specific consensomes and identified evidence for genes that were selectively responsive to TR signaling in each organ. Results: The TR transcriptomic consensome ranks genes based on the frequency of their significant differential expression over the entire group of experiments. The TR consensome assigns elevated rankings both to known TR-regulated genes and to genes previously uncharacterized as TR-regulated, which shed mechanistic light on known cellular and physiological roles of TR signaling in different organs. We identify evidence for unreported genomic targets of TR signaling for which it exhibits strikingly distinct regulatory preferences in the liver and CNS. Moreover, the intersection of the TR consensome with consensomes for other cellular receptors sheds light on transcripts potentially mediating crosstalk between TRs and these other signaling paradigms. Conclusions: The mouse TR datasets and consensomes are freely available in the Signaling Pathways Project website for hypothesis generation, data validation, and modeling of novel mechanisms of TR regulation of gene expression. Our results demonstrate the insights into the mechanistic basis of thyroid hormone action that can arise from an ongoing commitment on the part of the research community to the deposition of discovery-scale datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A. Ochsner
- The Signaling Pathways Project, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Neil J. McKenna
- The Signaling Pathways Project, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- Address correspondence to: Neil J. McKenna, PhD, The Signaling Pathways Project, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
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Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome: what is the actual risk for couples carriers of the DHCR7:c.964-1G>C variant? Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 28:938-942. [PMID: 32055014 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-0577-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The founder variant DHCR7:c.964-1G>C causing autosomal recessive Smith-Lemli-Opitz (SLOS) was introduced into the Israeli preconception carrier program for Ashkenazi Jews in 2017 because of the high carrier frequency in this population (2.3%). Other disease-causing variants in DHCR7 are relatively rare in Israeli population. Discrepancy between the carrier frequency and disease prevalence raises the question of the actual risks for affected offspring for couples detected by the screening program. We performed a literature review of all relevant publications regarding homozygous DHCR7:c.964-1G>C fetuses/patients. We also collected clinical data about couples identified in the national screening program, including reproductive history. Out of 32 homozygous fetuses, six died in utero, 11 pregnancies were terminated during second trimester, and 15 children were born. All died between first days of life till 3 months of age. Reproductive history of SLOS-at-risk couples showed that after correction for ascertainment bias, out of 61 pregnancies, there was an absence of affected fetuses/children and an excess of miscarriages even if assumed that all the homozygous fetuses were miscarried. Out of these, eight families were Israelis, they had a total of one sick child, 21 healthy children, and 21 miscarriages. Our observations support the previous knowledge that homozygosity for c.964-1G>C in DHCR7 leads to a severe phenotype or early miscarriage. An unexpected observation was the excess of early miscarriages. This phenomenon is unclear and awaits further studies.
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Bernecker C, Köfeler H, Pabst G, Trötzmüller M, Kolb D, Strohmayer K, Trajanoski S, Holzapfel GA, Schlenke P, Dorn I. Cholesterol Deficiency Causes Impaired Osmotic Stability of Cultured Red Blood Cells. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1529. [PMID: 31920725 PMCID: PMC6933518 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ex vivo generation of red blood cells (cRBCs) is an attractive tool in basic research and for replacing blood components donated by volunteers. As a prerequisite for the survival of cRBCs during storage as well as in the circulation, the quality of the membrane is of utmost importance. Besides the cytoskeleton and embedded proteins, the lipid bilayer is critical for membrane integrity. Although cRBCs suffer from increased fragility, studies investigating the lipid content of their membrane are still lacking. We investigated the membrane lipid profile of cRBCs from CD34+ human stem and progenitor cells compared to native red blood cells (nRBCs) and native reticulocytes (nRETs). Ex vivo erythropoiesis was performed in a well-established liquid assay. cRBCs showed a maturation grade between nRETs and nRBCs. High-resolution mass spectrometry analysis for cholesterol and the major phospholipid classes, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine, sphingomyelin and lysophosphatidylcholin, demonstrated severe cholesterol deficiency in cRBCs. Although cRBCs showed normal deformability capacity, they suffered from increased hemolysis due to minimal changes in the osmotic conditions. After additional lipid supplementation, especially cholesterol during culturing, the cholesterol content of cRBCs increased to a subnormal amount. Concurrently, the osmotic resistance recovered completely and became comparable to that of nRETs. Minor differences in the amount of phospholipids in cRBCs compared to native cells could mainly be attributed to the ongoing membrane remodeling process from the reticulocyte to the erythrocyte stage. Obtained results demonstrate severe cholesterol deficiency as a reason for enhanced fragility of cRBCs. Therefore, the supplementation of lipids, especially cholesterol during ex vivo erythropoiesis may overcome this limitation and strengthens the survival of cRBCs ex vivo and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Bernecker
- Department for Blood Group Serology and Transfusion Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Harald Köfeler
- Center for Medical Research, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Georg Pabst
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, University of Graz, Biophysics Division, BioTechMed Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Dagmar Kolb
- Center for Medical Research, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Karl Strohmayer
- Institute of Biomechanics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Slave Trajanoski
- Center for Medical Research, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerhard A Holzapfel
- Institute of Biomechanics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria.,Department of Structural Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Peter Schlenke
- Department for Blood Group Serology and Transfusion Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Isabel Dorn
- Department for Blood Group Serology and Transfusion Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Stonebrook E, Hoff M, Spencer JD. Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract: A Clinical Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 5:223-235. [PMID: 32864297 DOI: 10.1007/s40746-019-00166-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of review This review highlights the most common congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) that are encountered in pediatric practices. CAKUT are the most common cause of prenatally diagnosed developmental malformations and encompass a spectrum of disorders impacting lower urinary tract development as well as kidney development and function. In pediatric and adolescent populations, developmental abnormalities are the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease. The goal of this review is to provide pediatric providers a framework for appropriate clinical management as well as highlight when referral to subspecialty care is needed. Recent findings While the exact etiologies of CAKUT are not completely defined, new evidence demonstrates that genetic and molecular changes impact embryonic kidney and urinary tract development. As a result, phenotypes and clinical outcomes may be affected. Summary Because pediatric providers provide front-line care to children and adolescents with developmental kidney and urinary tract anomalies, updated knowledge of CAKUT pathogenesis, embryology, clinical management, and patient outcomes is needed. This manuscript reviews CAKUT etiologies and essential diagnostic, prognostic, and management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Stonebrook
- Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship Program, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH USA.,Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Monica Hoff
- Pediatrics Residency Program, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - John David Spencer
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH USA
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Zingariello M, Bardelli C, Sancillo L, Ciaffoni F, Genova ML, Girelli G, Migliaccio AR. Dexamethasone Predisposes Human Erythroblasts Toward Impaired Lipid Metabolism and Renders Their ex vivo Expansion Highly Dependent on Plasma Lipoproteins. Front Physiol 2019; 10:281. [PMID: 31019464 PMCID: PMC6458278 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cultures of stem cells from discarded sources supplemented with dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid receptor agonist, generate cultured red blood cells (cRBCs) in numbers sufficient for transfusion. According to the literature, however, erythroblasts generated with dexamethasone exhibit low enucleation rates giving rise to cRBCs that survive poorly in vivo. The knowledge that the glucocorticoid receptor regulates lipid metabolism and that lipid composition dictates the fragility of the plasma membrane suggests that insufficient lipid bioavailability restrains generation of cRBCs. To test this hypothesis, we first compared the expression profiling of erythroblasts generated with or without dexamethasone. This analysis revealed differences in expression of 55 genes, 6 of which encoding proteins involved in lipid metabolism. These were represented by genes encoding the mitochondrial proteins 3-Hydroxymethyl-3-Methylglutaryl-CoA lyase, upregulated, and 3-Oxoacid CoA-Transferase1 and glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase1, both downregulated, and the proteins ATP-binding cassette transporter1 and Hydroxysteroid-17-Beta-Dehydrogenase7, upregulated, and cAMP-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit beta, downregulated. This profiling predicts that dexamethasone, possibly by interfering with mitochondrial functions, impairs the intrinsic lipid metabolism making the synthesis of the plasma membrane of erythroid cells depend on lipid-uptake from external sources. Optical and electron microscopy analyses confirmed that the mitochondria of erythroblasts generated with dexamethasone are abnormal and that their plasma membranes present pebbles associated with membrane ruptures releasing exosomes and micro-vesicles. These results indicate that the lipid supplements of media currently available are not adequate for cRBCs. To identify better lipid supplements, we determined the number of erythroblasts generated in synthetic media supplemented with either currently used liposomes or with lipoproteins purified from human plasma [the total lipoprotein fraction (TL) or its high (HDL), low (LDL) and very low (VLDL) density lipoprotein components]. Both LDL and VLDL generated numbers of erythroid cells 3-2-fold greater than that observed in controls. These greater numbers were associated with 2-3-fold greater amplification of erythroid cells due both to increased proliferation and to resistance to stress-induced death. In conclusion, dexamethasone impairs lipid metabolism making ex vivo expansion of erythroid cells highly dependent on lipid absorbed from external sources and the use of LDL and VLDL as lipid supplements improves the generation of cRBCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zingariello
- Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Bardelli
- Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Sancillo
- Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Luisa Genova
- Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Anna Rita Migliaccio
- Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University, Bologna, Italy
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14
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Genaro-Mattos TC, Allen LB, Anderson A, Tallman KA, Porter NA, Korade Z, Mirnics K. Maternal aripiprazole exposure interacts with 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase mutations and alters embryonic neurodevelopment. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:491-500. [PMID: 30742019 PMCID: PMC6477890 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0368-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in both copies in the gene encoding 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7) cause Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS), which is characterized by a toxic elevation in 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC). Aripiprazole (ARI) exposure, independent of genetic mutations, also leads to elevation of 7-DHC. We investigated the combined effect of a single-copy Dhcr7+/- mutation and maternal ARI exposure on the developing offspring brain. We generated a time-pregnant mouse model where WT and Dhcr7+/- embryos were maternally exposed to ARI or vehicle (VEH) from E12 to E19 (5 mg/kg). Levels of cholesterol, its precursors, ARI and its metabolites were measured at P0. We found that ARI and its metabolites were transported across the placenta and reached the brain of offspring. Maternal ARI exposure led to decreased viability of embryos and increased 7-DHC levels, regardless of maternal or offspring Dhcr7 genotype. In addition, Dhcr7+/- pups were more vulnerable to maternal ARI exposure than their WT littermates, and maternal Dhcr7+/- genotype also exacerbated offspring response to ARI treatment. Finally, both 7-DHC levels and 7-DHC/cholesterol ratio is the highest in Dhcr7+/- pups from Dhcr7+/- mothers exposed to ARI, underscoring a potentially dangerous interaction between maternal genotype×embryonic genotype×treatment. Our findings have important clinical implications. SLOS patients should avoid drugs that increase 7-DHC levels such as ARI, trazodone and haloperidol. In addition, treatment with 7-DHC elevating substances might be potentially unsafe for the 1-1.5% of population with single-allele disruptions of the DHCR7 gene. Finally, prenatal and parental genetic testing for DHCR7 should be considered before prescribing sterol-interfering medications during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago C. Genaro-Mattos
- 0000 0001 0666 4105grid.266813.8Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - Luke B. Allen
- 0000 0001 0666 4105grid.266813.8Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - Allison Anderson
- 0000 0001 0666 4105grid.266813.8Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - Keri A. Tallman
- 0000 0001 2264 7217grid.152326.1Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Ned A. Porter
- 0000 0001 2264 7217grid.152326.1Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Zeljka Korade
- 0000 0001 0666 4105grid.266813.8Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - Károly Mirnics
- Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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15
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Ahmed H, Akbari H, Emami A, Akbari MR. Genetic Overview of Syndactyly and Polydactyly. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2017; 5:e1549. [PMID: 29263957 PMCID: PMC5732663 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000001549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Syndactyly and polydactyly-respectively characterized by fused and supernumerary digits-are among the most common congenital limb malformations, with syndactyly presenting at an estimated incidence of 1 in 2,000-3,000 live births and polydactyly at a frequency of 1 in approximately 700-1,000 live births. Despite their relatively regular manifestation in the clinic, the etiologies of syndactyly and polydactyly remain poorly understood because of their phenotypic and genetic diversity. Further, even though concrete knowledge of genotypic links has been established for some variants of syndactyly and polydactyly, there appears to be no single comprehensive published summary of all syndromic and nonsyndromic syndactyly and polydactyly presentations, and there is decidedly no resource that maps all syndromic and nonsyndromic syndactylies and polydactylies to their genetic bases. This gap in the literature problematizes comprehensive carrier screening and prenatal diagnosis and complicates novel diagnostic attempts. This review thus attempts to collect all that is known about the genetic bases of syndromic and nonsyndromic syndactylies and polydactylies, as well as to highlight the dactyly manifestations for which no genetic bases are as yet known. Then, having established a summation of existing and missing knowledge, this work briefly outlines the diagnostic techniques that a genetics-reinforced understanding of syndactyly and polydactyly could inform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humayun Ahmed
- From the Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital, Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; and Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hossein Akbari
- From the Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital, Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; and Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Abdolhasan Emami
- From the Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital, Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; and Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mohammad R. Akbari
- From the Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital, Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; and Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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16
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Dewhurst-Maridor G, Abegg D, David FPA, Rougemont J, Scott CC, Adibekian A, Riezman H. The SAGA complex, together with transcription factors and the endocytic protein Rvs167p, coordinates the reprofiling of gene expression in response to changes in sterol composition in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Mol Biol Cell 2017; 28:2637-2649. [PMID: 28768829 PMCID: PMC5620372 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e17-03-0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The SAGA complex, together with transcription factors and Rvs167p, coordinates sterol-dependent transcription changes. In ergosterol mutants the SAGA complex increases its occupancy on ergosterol biosynthesis and anaerobic gene promoters, recruits the SWI/SNF complex, and binds to transcription factors and Rvs167p. Genes encoding stress proteins and basic amino acid synthesis are also affected even though promoter occupancy is not changed. Changes in cellular sterol species and concentrations can have profound effects on the transcriptional profile. In yeast, mutants defective in sterol biosynthesis show a wide range of changes in transcription, including a coinduction of anaerobic genes and ergosterol biosynthesis genes, biosynthesis of basic amino acids, and several stress genes. However the mechanisms underlying these changes are unknown. We identified mutations in the SAGA complex, a coactivator of transcription, which abrogate the ability to carry out most of these sterol-dependent transcriptional changes. In the erg3 mutant, the SAGA complex increases its occupancy time on many of the induced ergosterol and anaerobic gene promoters, increases its association with several relevant transcription factors and the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, and surprisingly, associates with an endocytic protein, Rvs167p, suggesting a moonlighting function for this protein in the sterol-regulated induction of the heat shock protein, HSP42 and HSP102, mRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Abegg
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.,NCCR Chemical Biology, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fabrice P A David
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jacques Rougemont
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cameron C Scott
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Adibekian
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.,NCCR Chemical Biology, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Howard Riezman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland .,NCCR Chemical Biology, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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17
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Boland MR, Tatonetti NP. Investigation of 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase pathway to elucidate off-target prenatal effects of pharmaceuticals: a systematic review. THE PHARMACOGENOMICS JOURNAL 2016; 16:411-29. [PMID: 27401223 PMCID: PMC5028238 DOI: 10.1038/tpj.2016.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mendelian diseases contain important biological information regarding developmental effects of gene mutations that can guide drug discovery and toxicity efforts. In this review, we focus on Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome (SLOS), a rare Mendelian disease characterized by compound heterozygous mutations in 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7) resulting in severe fetal deformities. We present a compilation of SLOS-inducing DHCR7 mutations and the geographic distribution of those mutations in healthy and diseased populations. We observed that several mutations thought to be disease causing occur in healthy populations, indicating an incomplete understanding of the condition and highlighting new research opportunities. We describe the functional environment around DHCR7, including pharmacological DHCR7 inhibitors and cholesterol and vitamin D synthesis. Using PubMed, we investigated the fetal outcomes following prenatal exposure to DHCR7 modulators. First-trimester exposure to DHCR7 inhibitors resulted in outcomes similar to those of known teratogens (50 vs 48% born-healthy). DHCR7 activity should be considered during drug development and prenatal toxicity assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Boland
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - N P Tatonetti
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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18
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Domizio S, Pallotta R, Romanelli A, Puglielli C, Pollice R, Casacchia M, Conte E, Domizio R, Sabatino G. A Case of Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome, Defect of Cholesterol Biosynthesis. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2016; 19:439-42. [PMID: 16831310 DOI: 10.1177/039463200601900220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the case of a child with Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome. The pregnancy was complicated by prenatal growth retardation. The baby was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Chieti when she was five months old. She showed postnatal growth retardation, trouble sucking and swallowing, microcefaly and multiple major and minor malformations, including characteristic facial features and 2–3 syndactyly of the toes. We found correlations between multiple congenital malformations, failure to thrive and low plasmatic cholesterol measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Domizio
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University G. D'Annunzio, Ospedale Policlinico, Via dei Vestini 5, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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19
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Abstract
Since its discovery nearly 30 years ago, the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway has been shown to be pivotal in many developmental and pathophysiological processes in several steroidogenic tissues, including the testis, ovary, adrenal cortex, and placenta. New evidence links the evolutionarily conserved Hh pathway to the steroidogenic organs, demonstrating how Hh signaling can influence their development and homeostasis and can act in concert with steroids to mediate physiological functions. In this review, we highlight the role of the components of the Hh signaling pathway in steroidogenesis of endocrine tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Finco
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109; , ,
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20
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Ali-Rahmani F, Schengrund CL, Connor JR. HFE gene variants, iron, and lipids: a novel connection in Alzheimer's disease. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:165. [PMID: 25071582 PMCID: PMC4086322 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron accumulation and associated oxidative stress in the brain have been consistently found in several neurodegenerative diseases. Multiple genetic studies have been undertaken to try to identify a cause of neurodegenerative diseases but direct connections have been rare. In the iron field, variants in the HFE gene that give rise to a protein involved in cellular iron regulation, are associated with iron accumulation in multiple organs including the brain. There is also substantial epidemiological, genetic, and molecular evidence of disruption of cholesterol homeostasis in several neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite the efforts that have been made to identify factors that can trigger the pathological events associated with neurodegenerative diseases they remain mostly unknown. Because molecular phenotypes such as oxidative stress, synaptic failure, neuronal loss, and cognitive decline, characteristics associated with AD, have been shown to result from disruption of a number of pathways, one can easily argue that the phenotype seen may not arise from a linear sequence of events. Therefore, a multi-targeted approach is needed to understand a complex disorder like AD. This can be achieved only when knowledge about interactions between the different pathways and the potential influence of environmental factors on them becomes available. Toward this end, this review discusses what is known about the roles and interactions of iron and cholesterol in neurodegenerative diseases. It highlights the effects of gene variants of HFE (H63D- and C282Y-HFE) on iron and cholesterol metabolism and how they may contribute to understanding the etiology of complex neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Ali-Rahmani
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Neural and Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, Center for Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Penn State Hershey Medical CenterHershey, PA, USA
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University College of MedicineHershey, PA, USA
| | - Cara-Lynne Schengrund
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University College of MedicineHershey, PA, USA
| | - James R. Connor
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Neural and Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, Center for Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Penn State Hershey Medical CenterHershey, PA, USA
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21
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Edwards TJ, Sherr EH, Barkovich AJ, Richards LJ. Clinical, genetic and imaging findings identify new causes for corpus callosum development syndromes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 137:1579-613. [PMID: 24477430 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awt358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The corpus callosum is the largest fibre tract in the brain, connecting the two cerebral hemispheres, and thereby facilitating the integration of motor and sensory information from the two sides of the body as well as influencing higher cognition associated with executive function, social interaction and language. Agenesis of the corpus callosum is a common brain malformation that can occur either in isolation or in association with congenital syndromes. Understanding the causes of this condition will help improve our knowledge of the critical brain developmental mechanisms required for wiring the brain and provide potential avenues for therapies for callosal agenesis or related neurodevelopmental disorders. Improved genetic studies combined with mouse models and neuroimaging have rapidly expanded the diverse collection of copy number variations and single gene mutations associated with callosal agenesis. At the same time, advances in our understanding of the developmental mechanisms involved in corpus callosum formation have provided insights into the possible causes of these disorders. This review provides the first comprehensive classification of the clinical and genetic features of syndromes associated with callosal agenesis, and provides a genetic and developmental framework for the interpretation of future research that will guide the next advances in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Edwards
- 1 Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia2 Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, The University of California and the Benioff Children's Hospital, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Elliott H Sherr
- 3 Departments of Pediatrics and Neurosurgery, Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, The University of California Children's Hospital, CA 94143, USA
| | - A James Barkovich
- 3 Departments of Pediatrics and Neurosurgery, Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, The University of California Children's Hospital, CA 94143, USA4 Departments of Paediatrics and Neurosurgery, Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, The University of California San Francisco and The Benioff Children's Hospital, CA 94143-0628 USA
| | - Linda J Richards
- 1 Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia5 School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia
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22
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Cholesterol: its regulation and role in central nervous system disorders. CHOLESTEROL 2012; 2012:292598. [PMID: 23119149 PMCID: PMC3483652 DOI: 10.1155/2012/292598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 09/03/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol is a major constituent of the human brain, and the brain is the most cholesterol-rich organ. Numerous lipoprotein receptors and apolipoproteins are expressed in the brain. Cholesterol is tightly regulated between the major brain cells and is essential for normal brain development. The metabolism of brain cholesterol differs markedly from that of other tissues. Brain cholesterol is primarily derived by de novo synthesis and the blood brain barrier prevents the uptake of lipoprotein cholesterol from the circulation. Defects in cholesterol metabolism lead to structural and functional central nervous system diseases such as Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, Niemann-Pick type C disease, and Alzheimer's disease. These diseases affect different metabolic pathways (cholesterol biosynthesis, lipid transport and lipoprotein assembly, apolipoproteins, lipoprotein receptors, and signaling molecules). We review the metabolic pathways of cholesterol in the CNS and its cell-specific and microdomain-specific interaction with other pathways such as the amyloid precursor protein and discuss potential treatment strategies as well as the effects of the widespread use of LDL cholesterol-lowering drugs on brain functions.
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23
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Castro LCGD. [The vitamin D endocrine system]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 55:566-75. [PMID: 22218438 DOI: 10.1590/s0004-27302011000800010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2011] [Accepted: 10/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The vitamin D endocrine system comprises a group of 7-dehydrocholesterol-derived secosteroid molecules, including its active metabolite 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D (1,25(OH)(2)D), its precursors and other metabolites, its binding protein (DBP) and nuclear receptor (VDR), as well as cytochrome P450 complex enzymes participating in activation and inactivation pathways of those molecules. The biologic effects of 1,25(OH)(2)D are mediated by VDR, a ligand-activated transcription factor which is a member of the nuclear receptors family, spread in almost all human cells. In addition to its classic role in the regulation of calcium metabolism and bone health, evidence suggests that 1,25(OH)(2)D directly or indirectly modulates about 3% of the human genome, participating in the regulation of chief functions of systemic homeostasis, such as cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis, regulation of immune, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems, and insulin metabolism. Given the critical influence of the vitamin D endocrine system in many processes of systemic metabolic equilibrium, the laboratory assays available for the evaluation of this system have to present high accuracy and reproducibility, enabling the establishment of cutoff points that, beyond being consensually accepted, reliably express the vitamin D status of the organism, and the respective clinical-metabolic impacts on the global health of the individual.
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24
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Fliesler SJ, Bretillon L. The ins and outs of cholesterol in the vertebrate retina. J Lipid Res 2010; 51:3399-413. [PMID: 20861164 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.r010538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The vertebrate retina has multiple demands for utilization of cholesterol and must meet those demands either by synthesizing its own supply of cholesterol or by importing cholesterol from extraretinal sources, or both. Unlike the blood-brain barrier, the blood-retina barrier allows uptake of cholesterol from the circulation via a lipoprotein-based/receptor-mediated mechanism. Under normal conditions, cholesterol homeostasis is tightly regulated; also, cholesterol exists in the neural retina overwhelmingly in unesterified form, and sterol intermediates are present in minimal to negligible quantities. However, under certain pathological conditions, either due to an inborn error in cholesterol biosynthesis or as a consequence of exposure to selective inhibitors of enzymes in the cholesterol pathway, the ratio of sterol intermediates to cholesterol in the retina can rise dramatically and persist, in some cases resulting in progressive degeneration that significantly compromises the structure and function of the retina. Although the relative contributions of de novo synthesis versus extraretinal uptake are not yet known, herein we review what is known about these processes and the dynamics of cholesterol in the vertebrate retina and indicate some future avenues of research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Fliesler
- Research Service, Veterans Administration Western New York Healthcare System, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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25
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Staneva G, Chachaty C, Wolf C, Quinn PJ. Comparison of the liquid-ordered bilayer phases containing cholesterol or 7-dehydrocholesterol in modeling Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. J Lipid Res 2010; 51:1810-22. [PMID: 20147702 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m003467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The phase behavior of egg sphingomyelin (ESM) mixtures with cholesterol or 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) has been investigated by independent methods: fluorescence microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electron spin resonance spectroscopy. In giant vesicles, cholesterol-enriched domains appeared as large and clearly delineated domains assigned to a liquid-ordered (Lo) phase. The domains containing 7-DHC were smaller and had more diffuse boundaries. Separation of a gel phase assigned by X-ray examination to pure sphingomyelin domains coexisting with sterol-enriched domains was observed at temperatures less than 38 degrees C in binary mixtures containing 10-mol% sterol. At higher sterol concentrations, the coexistence of liquid-ordered and liquid-disordered phases was evidenced in the temperature range 20 degrees -50 degrees C. Calculated electron density profiles indicated the location of 7-DHC was more loosely defined than cholesterol, which is localized precisely at a particular depth along the bilayer normal. ESR spectra of spin-labeled fatty acid partitioned in the liquid-ordered component showed a similar, high degree of order for both sterols in the center of the bilayer, but it was higher in the coexisting disordered phase for 7-DHC. The differences detected in the models of the lipid membrane matrix are said to initiate the deleterious consequences of the Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galya Staneva
- Institute of Biophysics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria.
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26
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Abstract
Diagnosis and management of Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) requires understanding of the malformation's anatomic features and multigenic nature. Rectal biopsies, intraoperative frozen sections, and resection specimens provide invaluable information. Extraction of these data requires thoughtful biopsy technique, adequate histologic sections, histochemistry, and collaboration of surgeon and pathologist. Critical consideration of transition zone anatomy and published studies of "transition zone pull through" indicate that more research is needed to determine how much ganglionic bowel should be resected from HSCR patients. Many HSCR-susceptibility genes have been identified, but mutational analysis has limited practical value unless family history or clinical findings suggest syndromic HSCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj P Kapur
- Department of Laboratories, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98115, USA.
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27
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Korade Z, Kenworthy AK, Mirnics K. Molecular consequences of altered neuronal cholesterol biosynthesis. J Neurosci Res 2009; 87:866-75. [PMID: 18951487 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.21917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The first dedicated step in de novo cholesterol biosynthesis begins with formation of squalene and ends with the reduction of 7-dehydrocholesterol by 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (Dhcr7) into cholesterol, which is an essential structural and signaling molecule. Mutations in the Dhcr7 gene lead to Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS), which is characterized by developmental deformities, incomplete myelination, and mental retardation. To understand better the molecular consequences of Dhcr7 deficiency in neuronal tissue, we analyzed the effect of cholesterol deficiency on the transcriptome in Neuro2a cells. Transient down-regulation of Dhcr7 by siRNA led to altered expression of multiple molecules that play critical roles in intracellular signaling or vesicular transport or are inserted into membrane rafts (e.g. Egr1, Snx, and Adam19). A similar down-regulation was also observed in stable Dhrc7-shRNA-transfected cell lines, and the findings were verified by qPCR. Furthermore, we investigated the Dhcr7-deficient and control cells for the expression of several critical genes involved in lipid biosynthesis. Among these, fatty acid synthase, sterol-regulatory element binding protein 2, SREBF chaperone, site-1 protease, and squalene synthase showed a significant down-regulation, suggesting that, in a neuronal cell line, Dhcr7 is a potent regulator of lipid biosynthesis. Importantly, the gene expression changes were present in both lipid-containing and cholesterol-deficient media, suggesting that intrinsic cholesterol biosynthesis is necessary for normal neuronal function and cannot be supplemented from extrinsic sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeljka Korade
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA.
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28
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Paila YD, Murty MR, Vairamani M, Chattopadhyay A. Signaling by the human serotonin1A receptor is impaired in cellular model of Smith–Lemli–Opitz Syndrome. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2008; 1778:1508-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2008.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2008] [Revised: 03/01/2008] [Accepted: 03/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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29
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Korade Z, Kenworthy AK. Lipid rafts, cholesterol, and the brain. Neuropharmacology 2008; 55:1265-73. [PMID: 18402986 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2007] [Revised: 02/15/2008] [Accepted: 02/26/2008] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Lipid rafts are specialized membrane microdomains that serve as organizing centers for assembly of signaling molecules, influence membrane fluidity and trafficking of membrane proteins, and regulate different cellular processes such as neurotransmission and receptor trafficking. In this article, we provide an overview of current methods for studying lipid rafts and models for how lipid rafts might form and function. Next, we propose a potential mechanism for regulating lipid rafts in the brain via local control of cholesterol biosynthesis by neurotrophins and their receptors. Finally, we discuss evidence that altered cholesterol metabolism and/or lipid rafts play a critical role in the pathophysiology of multiple CNS disorders, including Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, Huntington's, Alzheimer's, and Niemann-Pick Type C diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeljka Korade
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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Mild Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome: further delineation of 5 Polish cases and review of the literature. Eur J Med Genet 2007; 51:124-40. [PMID: 18249054 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2007.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2007] [Accepted: 11/23/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by reduced activity of 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase, resulting in an increased concentrations of 7-dehydrocholesterol and 8-dehydrocholesterol in body fluids and tissues. Phenotypically it is characterized by wide range of abnormalities, from mild to lethal forms what causes difficulties in its clinical diagnostics. To further delineate the physical spectrum of the mild form of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, especially with regard to genotype-phenotype correlation, we describe 5 Polish patients with mild phenotype (one with novel mutation in DHCR7 gene and four published before) and analyze 18 other cases from the literature. As the conclusion we give recommendation for tests toward SLOS in cases with "idiopathic" intellectual impairment and/or behavioral anomalies, as well as in biochemically doubtful but clinically fitting cases with overall gestalt and history of this syndrome.
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31
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Jong Hee Chae, Ki Joong Kim, Yong Seung Hwang, Ki CS, Kim JW. Identification of a novel DHCR7 mutation in a Korean patient with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. J Child Neurol 2007; 22:1297-300. [PMID: 18006960 DOI: 10.1177/0883073807307099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome is a unique malformation syndrome characterized by a defect in cholesterol biosynthesis, which is very rare among populations in Middle and East Asia. The authors identified compound heterozygous mutations ([p.Arg352Trp] + [p.Lys376ArgfsX37]) in a Korean girl with clinical and laboratory features typical of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. The Lys376ArgfsX37 mutation is a novel mutation, and to the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a clinically and genetically confirmed case of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Hee Chae
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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32
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Tadjuidje E, Hollemann T. Cholesterol homeostasis in development: the role of Xenopus 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (Xdhcr7) in neural development. Dev Dyn 2006; 235:2095-110. [PMID: 16752377 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (7-Dhcr) catalyses the final step in the pathway of cholesterol biosynthesis. Human patients with inborn errors of 7-Dhcr (Smith-Lemli-Opitz-Syndrome) have elevated serum levels of 7-dehydrocholesterol but low levels of cholesterol, which in phenotypical terms can result in growth retardation, craniofacial abnormalities including cleft palate, and reduced metal abilities. This study reports the isolation and molecular characterisation of 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (Xdhcr7) from Xenopus laevis. During early embryonic development, the expression of Xdhcr7 is first of all spatially restricted to the Spemann's organizer and later to the notochord. In both tissues, Xdhcr7 is coexpressed with Sonic hedgehog (Shh), which itself is cholesterol-modified during autoproteolytic cleavage. Data from Xdhcr7 overexpression and knockdown experiments reveals that a tight control of cholesterol synthesis is particularly important for proper development of the central and peripheral nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Tadjuidje
- University of Halle-Wittenberg, Institut für Physiologische Chemie, Halle/Saale, Germany
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33
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Ugras M, Kocak G, Ozcan H. Neu?Laxova syndrome: a case report and review of the literature. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2006; 20:1126-8. [PMID: 16987270 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2006.01645.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Neu-Laxova syndrome (NLS) is a rare autosomal recessive syndrome, characterized by severe intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), microcephaly, abnormal brain development, oedema and ichthyosis. It was first reported in 1971 by Neu et al. (Pediatrics 47: 610-612) and since then no more than 60 cases have been reported. A newborn girl delivered from a 29-year-old healthy mother was admitted to hospital with a thick membrane covering her body and dismorphic appearance. The diagnosis of NLS was made according to characteristic features. The syndrome is known to have a poor prognosis and the baby lived for 9 weeks. This case is one of the longest living cases of NLS and the fourth case reported from Turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ugras
- Department of Paediatrics, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey.
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34
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Korade Z, Mi Z, Portugal C, Schor NF. Expression and p75 neurotrophin receptor dependence of cholesterol synthetic enzymes in adult mouse brain. Neurobiol Aging 2006; 28:1522-31. [PMID: 16887237 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2006.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2006] [Revised: 06/06/2006] [Accepted: 06/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Normal brain function depends critically on cholesterol. Although cholesterol is synthesized locally in the adult brain, the precise anatomical localization of cholesterogenic enzymes is not known. Here we show that 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoAred) and 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (7dhcred), the first and last enzymes, respectively, in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, are co-expressed in neurons throughout adult murine brain. Co-localization is most prominent in cortical, hippocampal, and cholinergic neurons. Since adult hippocampal and cholinergic neurons express p75 neurotrophin receptors (p75NTR) we hypothesized that p75NTR regulates expression of cholesterogenic enzymes. Treatment of Neuro2a neuroblastoma cells or primary cerebellar cultures with siRNA downregulates p75NTR and decreases the expression level of HMG-CoAred and 7dhcred. Native neuroblastoma cell lines with differential expression of p75NTR differentially express 7dhcred; 7dhcred expression correlates with p75NTR expression. This suggests that, in p75NTR-expressing cells, p75NTR regulates cholesterol synthesis through regulation of HMG-CoAred and 7dhcred expression. The unexpected localization of cholesterogenic enzymes in adult neurons suggests that at least some adult neurons retain the ability to synthesize cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeljka Korade
- Pediatric Center for Neuroscience, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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35
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Schild-Prüfert K, Giegerich M, Schäfer M, Winkler C, Krohne G. Structural and functional characterization of the zebrafish lamin B receptor. Eur J Cell Biol 2006; 85:813-24. [PMID: 16759737 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2006.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2006] [Revised: 04/21/2006] [Accepted: 04/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The lamin B receptor (LBR) is an integral membrane protein of the inner nuclear membrane that is interacting with B-type lamins, chromatin and DNA. The complete loss of the protein in mouse mutants causes a reduced viability of embryos, and viable animals develop abnormalities of the skeleton. Here, we present the molecular characterization of the zebrafish LBR (zLBR) gene and the functional analysis of LBR during zebrafish embryogenesis. We found that the coding region of the LBR mRNA of zebrafish as well as of mammals is contained in 13 exons. At the protein level, human and zebrafish LBR exhibit a high sequence identity (57% and higher) in 8 of the 13 exons. Knockdown of zLBR by microinjection of 0.5-1.0 mM morpholino antisense oligonucleotides (MO) into 1- to 2-cell stage embryos reduced the amount of endogenous zLBR protein to approximately 10-20%. The viability of MO-injected embryos within 24 h was reduced to 70-77%. Surviving 1-day-old embryos exhibited morphological alterations including reduced growth of head structures, retardation of tail growth and a bent backbone and tail. Expression analysis of the transcription factors no tail (ntl) and goosecoid (gsc) by in situ hybridization suggests that these malformations are caused by altered cell migration during gastrulation. Our data indicate that the LBR of zebrafish and mammals are both required for correct development.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- DNA, Complementary/chemistry
- DNA, Complementary/genetics
- Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel
- Embryo, Nonmammalian/cytology
- Embryo, Nonmammalian/embryology
- Embryo, Nonmammalian/metabolism
- Exons/genetics
- Fetal Proteins
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Gene Silencing
- Goosecoid Protein/genetics
- Goosecoid Protein/metabolism
- Humans
- Immunoblotting
- Introns/genetics
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Mutation
- Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/genetics
- Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/metabolism
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sequence Homology, Amino Acid
- T-Box Domain Proteins/genetics
- T-Box Domain Proteins/metabolism
- Zebrafish/embryology
- Zebrafish/genetics
- Zebrafish/metabolism
- Zebrafish Proteins/genetics
- Zebrafish Proteins/metabolism
- Lamin B Receptor
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Schild-Prüfert
- Division of Electron Microscopy, Biocenter of the University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
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36
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Swapna I, Sathyasaikumar KV, Murthy CRK, Dutta-Gupta A, Senthilkumaran B. Changes in cerebral membrane lipid composition and fluidity during thioacetamide-induced hepatic encephalopathy. J Neurochem 2006; 98:1899-907. [PMID: 16945106 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2006.04028.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Lipids are an essential structural and functional component of cellular membranes. Changes in membrane lipid composition are known to affect the activities of many membrane-associated enzymes, endocytosis, exocytosis, membrane fusion and neurotransmitter uptake, and have been implicated in the pathophysiology of many neurodegenerative disorders. In the present study, we investigated changes in the lipid composition of membranes isolated from the cerebral cortex of rats treated with thioacetamide (TAA), a hepatotoxin that induces fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) and thereon hepatic encephalopathy (HE). HE refers to acute neuropsychiatric changes accompanying FHF. The estimation of membrane phospholipids, cholesterol and fatty acid content in cerebral cortex membranes from TAA-treated rats revealed a decrease in cholesterol, phosphatidylserine, sphingomyelin, a monounsaturated fatty acid, namely oleic acid, and the polyunsaturated fatty acids gamma-linolenic acid, decosa hexanoic acid and arachidonic acid compared with controls. Assessment of membrane fluidity with pyrene, 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene and 1-[4-(trimethylammonio)phenyl]-6-phenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene revealed a decrease in the annular membrane fluidity, whereas the global fluidity was unaffected. The level of the thiobarbituric acid reactive species marker for lipid peroxidation also increased in membranes from TAA-treated rats, thereby indicating the prevalence of oxidative stress. Results from the present study demonstrate gross alterations in cerebral cortical membrane lipid composition and fluidity during TAA-induced HE, and their possible implications in the pathogenesis of this condition are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Swapna
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
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37
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Swapna I, Sathya Sai Kumar KV, Murthy CRK, Senthilkumaran B. Membrane alterations and fluidity changes in cerebral cortex during acute ammonia intoxication. Neurotoxicology 2006; 27:402-8. [PMID: 16430963 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2005.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2005] [Revised: 11/24/2005] [Accepted: 11/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Acute ammonia intoxication is known to cause alterations in activities of several membrane bound enzymes like Na+ K+ ATPase, acetylcholine esterase and glutamate uptake in brain. The alteration in these membrane associated activities could be a consequence of altered membrane architecture. To probe this, the effect of pathophysiological concentrations of ammonia on lipid composition and fluidity of membranes isolated from cerebral cortex of rats, were investigated in the present study. Administration of acute doses of ammonium acetate caused depletion of membrane sphingomyelin and cholesterol levels thereby reducing cholesterol: phospholipid (C: PL) ratio. Levels of phosphatidylserine increased while those of phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine remain unaltered. Membrane fluidity estimations using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH), 1-[4-(trimethylammonio)phenyl]-6-phenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (TMA-DPH) indicated no changes in core and surface membrane fluidity following ammonium acetate administration. Acute ammonia toxicity induced no alteration in bulk fluidity but a decrease in annular fluidity of membranes, as determined using pyrene fluorescence. Elevated levels of malondialdehyde and declined level of total thiols in cerebral cortex membranes of rats under acute ammonia intoxication indicated the existence of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Swapna
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500046, India
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38
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Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder characterized pathologically by amyloid-beta plaques, neurofibrillary tangles and neuronal loss. Its fundamental cause(s) and the pathological cascades leading to clinical symptoms remain unknown. Lipids and lipid peroxidation products have important roles in the homeostasis of the central nervous system. As well, lipid transport genes and vascular changes associated with peripheral dyslipidemia have been associated with an increased risk of AD. The present review discusses ways in which lipids may be involved in the pathogenesis of AD-associated neurodegeneration through their roles as neuronal structural components, cell modulators, or second messengers. Given the many possibilities through which lipids may be directly involved in or contribute to the pathogenesis of AD, the use of lipids as biomarkers for disease progression is discussed, as are other avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Mielke
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, and the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Abstract
SLO syndrome is an autosomal recessive condition with multiple malformations. This syndrome is ascribed to deficiency of 7 dehydrocholesterol reductase, an enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway. The characteristics of this syndrome are facial anomalies, syndactyly of the second and third toe, postaxial polydactyly and genital anomalies with sexual ambiguity. We report a fetal case with intrauterine growth retardation, genital anomalies, multiple malformations with cardiac anomalies, renal aplasia and facial anomalies detected by prenatal ultrasound. Medical abortion was induced at 24 weeks gestation. The diagnosis was considered after complete pathologic examination and biochemical analysis.
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40
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Swapna I, Kumar KVSS, Reddy PVB, Murthy CRK, Reddanna P, Senthilkumaran B. Phospholipid and cholesterol alterations accompany structural disarray in myelin membrane of rats with hepatic encephalopathy induced by thioacetamide. Neurochem Int 2006; 49:238-44. [PMID: 16519962 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2006.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2005] [Revised: 01/04/2006] [Accepted: 01/05/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Fulminant hepatic failure is often associated with a wide range of neurological symptoms which are collectively referred to as hepatic encephalopathy. Fulminant hepatic failure with associated hepatic encephalopathy has a poor prognosis with the currently available sure treatment being only liver transplantation. This is largely owing to the lack of understanding of critical factors involved in the etiology of the condition. Lipid changes have been implicated in cerebral derangements characteristic of hepatic encephalopathy. About 79% of the brain lipid is concentrated in the myelin fraction where they play an important role in ion balance and conduction of nerve impulses. Hence, in the present study we aimed to investigate changes in myelin lipid composition and structure. Myelin was isolated by sucrose density gradient centrifugation from cerebral cortex of male Wistar rats (250-300 g body weight) treated with 300 mg/kg body weight thioacetamide administered twice at 24h interval to induce hepatic encephalopathy. Significant decrease was observed in the cholesterol and phospholipids content of myelin from treated rats. Sphingomyelin, phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylethanolamine content also decreased significantly following 18 h of thioacetamide administration. However, phosphatidylcholine levels remained unaltered. Transmission electron microscopic observation of myelin membrane from cerebral cortex sections showed considerable disorganization in myelin structure. Increase in malondialdehyde levels precede lipid changes leading to the speculation that oxidative damage may be the critical factor leading to decrease in the anionic phospholipids. Changes in myelin were evident only in later stages of hepatic encephalopathy indicating that myelin alteration may not play a role in early stages of hepatic encephalopathy. Nevertheless, myelin alteration may have a crucial role to play in various psycho-motor alterations during later stages of hepatic encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Swapna
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500 046, India
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41
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Vaughan DK, Peachey NS, Richards MJ, Buchan B, Fliesler SJ. Light-induced exacerbation of retinal degeneration in a rat model of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. Exp Eye Res 2005; 82:496-504. [PMID: 16360150 PMCID: PMC2844790 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2005.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2005] [Revised: 08/04/2005] [Accepted: 08/10/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Potentiation of retinal degeneration by intense light exposure, and its amelioration by an antioxidant, were studied in a rat model of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS), in comparison with normal (control) Sprague-Dawley rats. The SLOS model is created by treating rats with AY9944, a selective inhibitor of cholesterol synthesis at the level of 3beta-hydroxysterol-Delta7-reductase. A subset of rats was treated with dimethylthiourea (DMTU), a synthetic antioxidant, 24 and 1 hr prior to light exposure. Half of the animals (+/-DMTU) were exposed to intense, constant, green light (24hr, 1700lx, 490-580 nm), while the others were maintained in darkness. Subsequently all animals were returned to dim cyclic light (20-40 lx, 12 hr light-12 hr dark) for 2 weeks, after which electroretinograms were recorded. One eye from each rat was taken for histological and quantitative morphometric analyses; sterol analysis was performed on retinas from contralateral eyes. HPLC analysis confirmed the accumulation of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7DHC) in retinas of AY9944-treated rats; cholesterol represented >99% of the sterol in control retinas. Histology of retinas from unexposed, AY9944-treated rats (6-week-old) was normal. In contrast, age-matched, light-exposed rats exhibited massive photoreceptor cell loss in both the superior and inferior hemispheres, and concomitant rod and cone dysfunction. The severity and geographic extent of the damage was far greater than that observed in normal albino rats exposed to the same conditions. DMTU pre-treatment largely prevented these degenerative changes. These findings indicate that the AY9944-induced rat SLOS model is hypersensitive to intense light-induced retinal damage, relative to normal rats. DMTU protection against light-induced damage implicates free radical-based oxidation in the retinal degeneration process. Furthermore, the use of green light (corresponding to the absorption maxima of rhodopsin) implicates rhodopsin in the initiation of the pathobiological mechanism. We propose that generation of cytotoxic oxysterols (by-products of 7DHC oxidation) is an integral part of retinal cell death in the SLOS rat model, which is exacerbated by intense light. Furthermore, the results predict light-dependent potentiation of retinal degeneration in SLOS patients, and the possible ameliorative effects of antioxidant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana K. Vaughan
- Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
| | - Neal S. Peachey
- Cleveland VA Medical Center, and Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Michael J. Richards
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Pharmacological & Physiological Science, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Blake Buchan
- Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
| | - Steven J. Fliesler
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Pharmacological & Physiological Science, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
- Corresponding author. Dr Steven J. Fliesler, Saint Louis University Eye Institute, 1755 S. Grand Blvd, St Louis, MO 63104-1540. (S.J. Fliesler)
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42
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Richards MJ, Nagel BA, Fliesler SJ. Lipid hydroperoxide formation in the retina: correlation with retinal degeneration and light damage in a rat model of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. Exp Eye Res 2005; 82:538-41. [PMID: 16199034 PMCID: PMC2844950 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2005.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2005] [Accepted: 08/17/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an autosomal recessive disease presenting with multiple congenital anomalies, caused by a defect in cholesterol biosynthesis that results in abnormally elevated levels of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7DHC). Progressive retinal degeneration has been demonstrated in a rat model of SLOS, which is markedly exacerbated by intense light, far more so than occurs in normal albino rats under the same conditions. Herein, we demonstrate that, by six postnatal weeks, retinas in the SLOS rat model contain levels of lipid hydroperoxides (LPOs) comparable to those found in light-damaged albino rats (twice the normal steady-state levels), and that intense light exposure results in a three-fold elevation of LPOs with concomitant severe retinal degeneration. These results suggest a correlation between retinal degeneration and LPO levels. We propose that the presence of 7DHC in the SLOS rat retina potentiates LPO formation, and promotes the observed hypersensitivity to light-induced retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Steven J. Fliesler
- Corresponding author. Dr Steven J. Fliesler, Saint Louis University Eye Institute, 1755 South Grand Boulevard, St Louis, MO 63104-1540, USA. (S.J. Fliesler)
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43
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Berring EE, Borrenpohl K, Fliesler SJ, Serfis AB. A comparison of the behavior of cholesterol and selected derivatives in mixed sterol-phospholipid Langmuir monolayers: a fluorescence microscopy study. Chem Phys Lipids 2005; 136:1-12. [PMID: 15904906 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2005.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2004] [Revised: 03/08/2005] [Accepted: 03/16/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells require sterols to achieve normal structure and function of their plasma membranes, and deviations from normal sterol composition can perturb these features and compromise cellular and organism viability. The Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is a hereditary metabolic disease involving cholesterol (CHOL) deficiency and abnormal accumulation of the CHOL precursor, 7-dehydrocholesterol (7DHC). In this study, the interactions of CHOL and the related sterols desmosterol (DES) and 7DHC with l-alpha-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) monolayers were compared. Pressure-area isotherms and fluorescence microscopy were used to study DPPC monolayers containing 0, 10, 20, or 30 mol% sterol. Similar behavior was noted for CHOL- and DES-containing DPPC monolayers with both techniques. However, while 7DHC gave isotherms similar to those obtained with the other sterols, microscopy indicated limited domain formation with DPPC, indicating that 7DHC packs somewhat differently in DPPC membranes compared to CHOL and DES. These results are discussed in relation to SLOS pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Berring
- Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University, Monsanto Hall 125, 3501 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103-2010, USA
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44
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Abstract
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B and Hirschsprung's disease are genetic disorders characterized by gross and/or microscopic pathology of the enteric nervous system and associated dysmotility. A specific missense mutation in the RET proto-oncogene is the etiology of multiple endocrine neoplasia type B, in contrast to very complex multigenetic defects that underlie Hirschsprung's disease, which include overt mutations and more subtle changes in the RET locus. In this review, the molecular genetics of the 2 conditions are discussed, and the clinical implications of existing data and future studies are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj P Kapur
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center and University of Washington, Seattle, 91805, USA.
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Abstract
The photoreceptor rod outer segment (ROS) provides a unique system in which to investigate the role of cholesterol, an essential membrane constituent of most animal cells. The ROS is responsible for the initial events of vision at low light levels. It consists of a stack of disk membranes surrounded by the plasma membrane. Light capture occurs in the outer segment disk membranes that contain the photopigment, rhodopsin. These membranes originate from evaginations of the plasma membrane at the base of the outer segment. The new disks separate from the plasma membrane and progressively move up the length of the ROS over the course of several days. Thus the role of cholesterol can be evaluated in two distinct membranes. Furthermore, because the disk membranes vary in age it can also be investigated in a membrane as a function of the membrane age. The plasma membrane is enriched in cholesterol and in saturated fatty acids species relative to the disk membrane. The newly formed disk membranes have 6-fold more cholesterol than disks at the apical tip of the ROS. The partitioning of cholesterol out of disk membranes as they age and are apically displaced is consistent with the high PE content of disk membranes relative to the plasma membrane. The cholesterol composition of membranes has profound consequences on the major protein, rhodopsin. Biophysical studies in both model membranes and in native membranes have demonstrated that cholesterol can modulate the activity of rhodopsin by altering the membrane hydrocarbon environment. These studies suggest that mature disk membranes initiate the visual signal cascade more effectively than the newly synthesized, high cholesterol basal disks. Although rhodopsin is also the major protein of the plasma membrane, the high membrane cholesterol content inhibits rhodopsin participation in the visual transduction cascade. In addition to its effect on the hydrocarbon region, cholesterol may interact directly with rhodopsin. While high cholesterol inhibits rhodopsin activation, it also stabilizes the protein to denaturation. Therefore the disk membrane must perform a balancing act providing sufficient cholesterol to confer stability but without making the membrane too restrictive to receptor activation. Within a given disk membrane, it is likely that cholesterol exhibits an asymmetric distribution between the inner and outer bilayer leaflets. Furthermore, there is some evidence of cholesterol microdomains in the disk membranes. The availability of the disk protein, rom-1 may be sensitive to membrane cholesterol. The effects exerted by cholesterol on rhodopsin function have far-reaching implications for the study of G-protein coupled receptors as a whole. These studies show that the function of a membrane receptor can be modulated by modification of the lipid bilayer, particularly cholesterol. This provides a powerful means of fine-tuning the activity of a membrane protein without resorting to turnover of the protein or protein modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlene D Albert
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
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Rossi M, Federico G, Corso G, Parenti G, Battagliese A, Frascogna AR, Della Casa R, Dello Russo A, Strisciuglio P, Saggese G, Andria G. Vitamin D status in patients affected by Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. J Inherit Metab Dis 2005; 28:69-80. [PMID: 15702407 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-005-3676-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2003] [Accepted: 07/19/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is an inborn error of cholesterol biosynthesis characterized by developmental delay and multiple malformations. Some of the patients have skin photosensitivity and therefore tend to avoid direct exposure to sunlight.SLOS patients typically have low concentrations of cholesterol and abnormally high concentrations of its precursor 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) in biological fluids and tissues. 7-DHC is also a precursor in the cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D. Sunlight exposure plays a major role in this pathway and reactions transforming 7-DHC into vitamin D and then into 25-hydroxyvitamin D are known not to be specifically regulated. The aim of this study was to evaluate vitamin D status in SLOS patients. We measured 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D serum concentrations and markers of calcium metabolism in five SLOS patients. Despite abnormally high concentrations of 7-DHC, circulating concentrations of vitamin D metabolites were not significantly different from appropriate controls matched for sex, age and season of blood collection. The analysis of historical serum samples stored in our laboratory from the same cases plus 10 other SLOS patients further supported these findings. Our data suggest that SLOS patients have a peculiar vitamin D metabolism that protects them from vitamin D intoxication. This appears to be due in most cases to decreased transformation of 7-DHC into 25-hydroxyvitamin D, perhaps depending on reduced sunlight exposure as a consequence of photosensitivity. Possible alternative mechanisms are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rossi
- Department of Pediatrics, Federico II University, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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Chevy F, Humbert L, Wolf C. Sterol profiling of amniotic fluid: a routine method for the detection of distal cholesterol synthesis deficit. Prenat Diagn 2005; 25:1000-6. [PMID: 16231320 DOI: 10.1002/pd.1254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Smith Lemli Opitz syndrome (SLOS) caused by a deficit of 3beta-hydroxysterol-Delta7 reductase was the first sterol deficit described with multiple malformations. The lack of specificity of many morphological abnormalities detected by ultrasound and their frequency have justified routine screening of amniotic fluid (AF) for sterols by GC-MS. The examination contributes to an improved knowledge of the sterol status in the fluid. METHODS A series of sterol profiles is collated here. Accumulation of 7- and 8-dehydrocholesterol are diagnostic for SLOS. However, a number of other sterols have also been detected by GC-MS in control AF and their presence may be confusing. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS In addition to cholesterol, the level of which varies as function of the gestational age, lathosterol is present together with trace amounts of 7- and 8-dehydrocholesterol and other precursors such as desmosterol, lanosterol, and dimethylsterol. Phytosterols are also present in 70% of AF samples that have been tested. Besides SLOS, GC-MS examination of amniotic fluid can detect various sterol deficits associated with malformations (lathosterolosis, desmosterolosis, X-linked chondrodysplasia, and particular Antley-Bixler syndrome). Practical conclusions support GC-MS as a routine method to investigate skeletal and central nervous system malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Chevy
- Université Paris 6, Laboratoire commun de spectrométrie de masse, Paris, France
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Yu Q, Shen Y, Chatterjee B, Siegfried BH, Leatherbury L, Rosenthal J, Lucas JF, Wessels A, Spurney CF, Wu YJ, Kirby ML, Svenson K, Lo CW. ENU induced mutations causing congenital cardiovascular anomalies. Development 2004; 131:6211-23. [PMID: 15548583 DOI: 10.1242/dev.01543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We used non-invasive high frequency ultrasound to screen N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenized mouse fetuses for congenital cardiovascular anomalies. We ultrasound scanned 7546 mouse fetuses from 262 mutagenized families, and identified 124 families with cardiovascular defects. Represented were most of the major congenital cardiovascular anomalies seen clinically. The ENU-induced mutations in several families were mapped using polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers. One family with forelimb anomalies and ventricular septal defects, phenotypes similar to Holt-Oram syndrome, and one family with transposition of the great arteries and heart situs anomalies were mapped to different regions of mouse chromosome 4. A third mutation causing persistent truncus arteriosus and craniofacial defects, phenotypes reminiscent of DiGeorge syndrome, was mapped to mouse chromosome 2. We note that mouse chromosomes 4 and 2 do not contain Tbx5 or Tbx1, genes previously linked to Holt-Oram and DiGeorge syndromes, respectively. In two other families, the ENU-induced mutation was identified--Sema3CL605P was associated with persistent truncus arteriosus with interrupted aortic arch, and the Gja1W45X connexin43 mutation caused conotruncal malformation and coronary aneurysms. Although our screen was designed as a recessive screen, a number of the mutations showed cardiovascular phenotypes in both heterozygote and homozygote animals. These studies show the efficacy of ENU mutagenesis and high-throughput ultrasound phenotyping in recovering mutations causing a wide spectrum of congenital heart defects. These ENU-induced mutations hold promise in yielding new insights into the genetic basis for human congenital heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Yu
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-8019, USA
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Abstract
During the past 15 years, considerable progress has been made in our understanding of the genetic basis of adrenal development and function. More than 30 single gene disorders have now been identified that can affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in humans (fig. 1, 2; table 1). This review highlights recent advances in the molecular pathology of: (1) adrenal hypoplasia, (2) adrenal destruction, (3) disorders of adrenal steroidogenesis, (4) adrenal steroid resistance and (5) activation of the adrenal axis/tumorigenesis. Characterizing the molecular basis and natural history of these conditions is providing fascinating insight into adrenal development and function and can help to focus treatment and counselling of patients appropriately. However, ongoing translation of research findings into clinical practice is needed if patient care is to be influenced significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- Department of Medicine and Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
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Matsusue K, Gavrilova O, Lambert G, Brewer HB, Ward JM, Inoue Y, LeRoith D, Gonzalez FJ. Hepatic CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha mediates induction of lipogenesis and regulation of glucose homeostasis in leptin-deficient mice. Mol Endocrinol 2004; 18:2751-64. [PMID: 15319454 DOI: 10.1210/me.2004-0213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (C/EBP alpha) is a critical factor in glucose metabolism in the neonate as revealed by conventional C/EBP alpha-null mice that do not survive beyond the first day after birth because of severe hypoglycemia and a deficiency in hepatic glycogen accumulation. To elucidate the function of C/EBP alpha in leptin-deficient mouse (ob/ob) liver, a C/EBP alpha-liver null mouse on an ob/ob background (ob/ob-C/EBP alpha/Cre(+)) was produced using a floxed C/EBP alpha allele and Cre recombinase under control of the albumin promoter (AlbCre). The C/EBP alpha-deficient liver in ob/ob mice had significantly decreased triglyceride content compared with equivalent mice lacking the AlbCre transgene (ob/ob-C/EBP alpha/Cre(-)). Expression of genes involved in lipogenesis including fatty acid synthase, acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase, stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 and ATP-citrate lyase dramatically decreased in ob/ob-C/EBP alpha/Cre(+) mouse liver. Induction of these lipogenic genes by a high-carbohydrate diet caused an exacerbation in the development of fatty liver and an increase in liver size, hepatic triglyceride, and cholesterol contents in ob/ob-C/EBP alpha/Cre(-) mice but not in ob/ob-C/EBP alpha/Cre(+) mice. Deficiency in hepatic C/EBP alpha expression caused an exacerbation of hyperglycemia because of decreased insulin secretion. Taken together, these results indicate that hepatic C/EBP alpha plays a critical role in the acceleration of lipogenesis in ob/ob mice and in glucose homeostasis by the indirect regulation of insulin secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimihiko Matsusue
- Laboratory of Metabolism, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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