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Misra K, Ślęczkowska M, Santoro S, Gerrits MM, Mascia E, Marchi M, Salvi E, Smeets HJM, Hoeijmakers JGJ, Martinelli Boneschi FG, Filippi M, Lauria Pinter G, Faber CG, Esposito F. Broadening the Genetic Spectrum of Painful Small-Fiber Neuropathy through Whole-Exome Study in Early-Onset Cases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7248. [PMID: 39000354 PMCID: PMC11242789 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Small-Fiber Neuropathy (SFN) is a disorder of the peripheral nervous system, characterised by neuropathic pain; approximately 11% of cases are linked to variants in Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels (VGSCs). This study aims to broaden the genetic knowledge on painful SFN by applying Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) in Early-Onset (EO) cases. A total of 88 patients from Italy (n = 52) and the Netherlands (n = 36), with a disease onset at age ≤ 45 years old and a Pain Numerical Rating Score ≥ 4, were recruited. After variant filtering and classification, WES analysis identified 142 potentially causative variants in 93 genes; 8 are Pathogenic, 15 are Likely Pathogenic, and 119 are Variants of Uncertain Significance. Notably, an enrichment of variants in transient receptor potential genes was observed, suggesting their role in pain modulation alongside VGSCs. A pathway analysis performed by comparing EO cases with 40 Italian healthy controls found enriched mutated genes in the "Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor signaling pathway". Targeting this pathway with non-opioid drugs could offer novel therapeutic avenues for painful SFN. Additionally, with this study we demonstrated that employing a gene panel of reported mutated genes could serve as an initial screening tool for SFN in genetic studies, enhancing clinical diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaalindi Misra
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute of Experimental Neurology, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Milena Ślęczkowska
- Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Mental Health and Neuroscience Research Intsitute, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Silvia Santoro
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute of Experimental Neurology, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Monique M. Gerrits
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabetta Mascia
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute of Experimental Neurology, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Marchi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Salvi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Hubert J. M. Smeets
- Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke G. J. Hoeijmakers
- Department of Neurology, Mental Health and Neuroscience Research Intsitute, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Filippo Giovanni Martinelli Boneschi
- Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Santi Paolo e Carlo and Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria Pinter
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Catharina G. Faber
- Department of Neurology, Mental Health and Neuroscience Research Intsitute, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Federica Esposito
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute of Experimental Neurology, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
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Matsuda K, Kitano Y, Sawahata M, Kume T, Uta D. Mirogabalin inhibits scratching behavior of spontaneous model mouse of atopic dermatitis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1382281. [PMID: 38989140 PMCID: PMC11234176 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1382281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most prevalent intractable chronic itch diseases worldwide. In recent years, new molecular-targeted drugs have emerged, but side effects and economic challenges remain. Therefore, since it is important for AD patients to have a wider range of treatment options, it is important to explore new therapeutic agents. Gabapentinoids, gabapentin and pregabalin, have been shown to be effective for the clinical treatment of several chronic itch. Recently, mirogabalin (MGB) was developed as a novel gabapentinoid. MGB is a drug for neuropathic pain and has a margin of safety between its side effects and the analgesic effect for animal experiments. Herein, we showed that MGB exhibited an antipruritic effect in a mouse model of AD using NC/Nga mice. Methods and results: The oral administration of MGB (10 mg/kg) inhibited spontaneous scratching behavior in AD mice and its effect was dose dependently. Then, when MGB (10 mg/kg) was orally administrated to healthy mice, it did not affect motor function, including locomotor activity, wheel activity, and coordinated movement. Moreover, gabapentin (100 mg/kg) and pregabalin (30 mg/kg), inhibited spontaneous scratching behavior in AD mice and decreased motor function in healthy mice. Furthermore, intracisternal injection of MGB (10 μg/site) significantly suppressed spontaneous scratching behavior in AD mice. Discussion: In summary, our results suggest that MGB exerts an antipruritic effect via the spinal dorsal horn using NC/Nga mice. We hope that MGB is a candidate for a novel therapeutic agent for AD with relatively few side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosuke Matsuda
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kitano
- R&D Division, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahito Sawahata
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Kume
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
| | - Daisuke Uta
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
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Rasheed AAB, Birling MC, Lauria G, Gaveriaux-Ruff C, Herault Y. The COL6A5-p.Glu2272* mutation induces chronic itch in mice. Mamm Genome 2024; 35:122-134. [PMID: 38523187 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-024-10032-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Pruritus is a common irritating sensation that provokes the desire to scratch. Environmental and genetic factors contribute to the onset of pruritus. Moreover, itch can become a major burden when it becomes chronic. Interestingly, the rare Collagen VI alpha 5 (COL6A5) gene variant p.Glu2272* has been identified in two families and an independent patient with chronic neuropathic itch. These patients showed reduced COL6A5 expression in skin and normal skin morphology. However, little progress has been made until now toward understanding the relationships between this mutation and chronic itch. Therefore, we developed the first mouse model that recapitulates COL6A5-p.Glu2272* mutation using the CRISPR-Cas technology and characterized this new mouse model. The mutant mRNA, measured by RT-ddPCR, was expressed at normal levels in dorsal root ganglia and was decreased in skin. The functional exploration showed effects of the mutation with some sex dysmorphology. Mutant mice had increased skin permeability. Elevated spontaneous scratching and grooming was detected in male and female mutants, with increased anxiety-like behavior in female mutants. These results suggest that the COL6A5-p.Glu2272* mutation found in patients contributes to chronic itch and induces in mice additional behavioral changes. The COL6A5-p.Glu2272* mouse model could elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying COL6A5 role in itch and help identify potential new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameer Abu Bakr Rasheed
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Marie-Christine Birling
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67400, Illkirch, France
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM, PHENOMIN-Institut Clinique de la Souris, (PHENOMIN-ICS), 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67400, Illkirch, France
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, IRCCS Foundation "Carlo Besta" Neurological Institute, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Claire Gaveriaux-Ruff
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67400, Illkirch, France
- Biotechnology and Cell Signaling, CNRS, University of Strasbourg, UMR7242, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
| | - Yann Herault
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67400, Illkirch, France.
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM, PHENOMIN-Institut Clinique de la Souris, (PHENOMIN-ICS), 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67400, Illkirch, France.
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Coraggio F, Bhushan M, Roumeliotis S, Caroti F, Bevilacqua C, Prevedel R, Rapti G. Age-progressive interplay of HSP-proteostasis, ECM-cell junctions and biomechanics ensures C. elegans astroglial architecture. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2861. [PMID: 38570505 PMCID: PMC10991496 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46827-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Tissue integrity is sensitive to temperature, tension, age, and is sustained throughout life by adaptive cell-autonomous or extrinsic mechanisms. Safeguarding the remarkably-complex architectures of neurons and glia ensures age-dependent integrity of functional circuits. Here, we report mechanisms sustaining the integrity of C. elegans CEPsh astrocyte-like glia. We combine large-scale genetics with manipulation of genes, cells, and their environment, quantitative imaging of cellular/ subcellular features, tissue material properties and extracellular matrix (ECM). We identify mutants with age-progressive, environment-dependent defects in glial architecture, consequent disruption of neuronal architecture, and abnormal aging. Functional loss of epithelial Hsp70/Hsc70-cochaperone BAG2 causes ECM disruption, altered tissue biomechanics, and hypersensitivity of glia to environmental temperature and mechanics. Glial-cell junctions ensure epithelia-ECM-CEPsh glia association. Modifying glial junctions or ECM mechanics safeguards glial integrity against disrupted BAG2-proteostasis. Overall, we present a finely-regulated interplay of proteostasis-ECM and cell junctions with conserved components that ensures age-progressive robustness of glial architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Coraggio
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mahak Bhushan
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Spyridon Roumeliotis
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Francesca Caroti
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carlo Bevilacqua
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert Prevedel
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rome, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Georgia Rapti
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rome, Italy.
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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5
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Gregory CA, Ma J, Lomeli S. The coordinated activities of collagen VI and XII in maintenance of tissue structure, function and repair: evidence for a physical interaction. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1376091. [PMID: 38606288 PMCID: PMC11007232 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1376091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Collagen VI and collagen XII are structurally complex collagens of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Like all collagens, type VI and XII both possess triple-helical components that facilitate participation in the ECM network, but collagen VI and XII are distinct from the more abundant fibrillar collagens in that they also possess arrays of structurally globular modules with the capacity to propagate signaling to attached cells. Cell attachment to collagen VI and XII is known to regulate protective, proliferative or developmental processes through a variety of mechanisms, but a growing body of genetic and biochemical evidence suggests that at least some of these phenomena may be potentiated through mechanisms that require coordinated interaction between the two collagens. For example, genetic studies in humans have identified forms of myopathic Ehlers-Danlos syndrome with overlapping phenotypes that result from mutations in either collagen VI or XII, and biochemical and cell-based studies have identified accessory molecules that could form bridging interactions between the two collagens. However, the demonstration of a direct or ternary structural interaction between collagen VI or XII has not yet been reported. This Hypothesis and Theory review article examines the evidence that supports the existence of a functional complex between type VI and XII collagen in the ECM and discusses potential biological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl A. Gregory
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
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Andelic M, Marchi M, Marcuzzo S, Lombardi R, Faber CG, Lauria G, Salvi E. Archival skin biopsy specimens as a tool for miRNA-based diagnosis: Technical and post-analytical considerations. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101116. [PMID: 37808256 PMCID: PMC10550798 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Archived specimens, taken by standardized procedures in clinical practice, represent a valuable resource in translational medicine. Their use in retrospective molecular-based studies could provide disease and therapy predictors. Microfluidic array is a user-friendly and cost-effective method allowing profiling of hundreds of microRNAs (miRNAs) from a low amount of RNA. However, even though tissue miRNAs may include potentially robust biomarkers, non-uniformed post-analytical pipelines could hinder translation into clinics. In this study, epidermal RNA from archival skin biopsy specimens was isolated from patients with peripheral neuropathy and healthy individuals. Unbiased miRNA profiling was performed using RT-qPCR-based microfluidic array. We demonstrated that RNA obtained from archival tissue is appropriate for miRNA profiling, providing evidence that different practices in threshold selection could significantly influence the final results. We showed the utility of software-based quality control for amplification curves. We revealed that selection of the most stable reference and the calculation of geometric mean are suitable when utilizing microfluidic arrays without known references. By applying appropriate post-analytical settings, we obtained miRNA profile of human epidermis associated with biological processes and a list of suitable references. Our results, which outline technical and post-analytical considerations, support the broad use of archived specimens for miRNA analysis to unravel disease-specific molecular signatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirna Andelic
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Margherita Marchi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Marcuzzo
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Lombardi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Catharina G. Faber
- Department of Neurology and School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, P.O. Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Salvi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Data Science Center, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Gregorio I, Mereu M, Contarini G, Bello L, Semplicini C, Burgio F, Russo L, Sut S, Dall'Acqua S, Braghetta P, Semenza C, Pegoraro E, Papaleo F, Bonaldo P, Cescon M. Collagen VI deficiency causes behavioral abnormalities and cortical dopaminergic dysfunction. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:276265. [PMID: 35946603 PMCID: PMC9548377 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of genes coding for Collagen VI (COL6) cause muscle diseases, including Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) and Bethlem myopathy (BM). Although more recently COL6 genetic variants were linked to brain pathologies, the impact of COL6 deficiency in brain function is still largely unknown. Here, a thorough behavioral characterization of COL6 null (Col6a1-/-) mice unexpectedly revealed that COL6 deficiency leads to a significant impairment in sensorimotor gating and memory/attention functions. In keeping with these behavioral abnormalities, Col6a1-/- mice displayed alterations in dopaminergic signalling, primarily in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). In vitro co-culture of SH-SY5Y neural cells with primary meningeal fibroblasts from wild-type and Col6a1-/- mice confirmed a direct link between COL6 ablation and defective dopaminergic activity, through a mechanism involving the inability of meningeal cells to sustain dopaminergic differentiation. Finally, patients affected by COL6-related myopathies were evaluated with an ad hoc neuropsychological protocol, revealing distinctive defects in attentional control abilities. Altogether, these findings point at a novel role for COL6 in the proper maintenance of dopamine circuitry function and its related neurobehavioral features in both mice and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Gregorio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Maddalena Mereu
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131, Italy.,Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Gabriella Contarini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131, Italy.,Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Luca Bello
- ERN Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Claudio Semplicini
- ERN Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | | | - Loris Russo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Stefania Sut
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall'Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131, Italy
| | - Paola Braghetta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Semenza
- ERN Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy.,IRCCS San Camillo Hospital, 30126 Venice, Italy
| | - Elena Pegoraro
- ERN Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience Area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Bonaldo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Matilde Cescon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
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Zhang Y, Zhang D, Xu Y, Qin Y, Gu M, Cai W, Bai Z, Zhang X, Chen R, Sun Y, Wu Y, Wang Z. Selection of Cashmere Fineness Functional Genes by Translatomics. Front Genet 2022; 12:775499. [PMID: 35096002 PMCID: PMC8790676 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.775499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cashmere fineness is an important index to evaluate cashmere quality. Liaoning Cashmere Goat (LCG) has a large cashmere production and long cashmere fiber, but its fineness is not ideal. Therefore, it is important to find genes involved in cashmere fineness that can be used in future endeavors aiming to improve this phenotype. With the continuous advancement of research, the regulation of cashmere fineness has made new developments through high-throughput sequencing and genome-wide association analysis. It has been found that translatomics can identify genes associated with phenotypic traits. Through translatomic analysis, the skin tissue of LCG sample groups differing in cashmere fineness was sequenced by Ribo-seq. With these data, we identified 529 differentially expressed genes between the sample groups among the 27197 expressed genes. From these, 343 genes were upregulated in the fine LCG group in relation to the coarse LCG group, and 186 were downregulated in the same relationship. Through GO enrichment analysis and KEGG enrichment analysis of differential genes, the biological functions and pathways of differential genes can be found. In the GO enrichment analysis, 491 genes were significantly enriched, and the functional region was mainly in the extracellular region. In the KEGG enrichment analysis, the enrichment of the human papillomavirus infection pathway was seen the most. We found that the COL6A5 gene may affect cashmere fineness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dongyun Zhang
- International Business School and International Economics and Trade, Shenyang Normal University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanan Xu
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuting Qin
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ming Gu
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Weidong Cai
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhixian Bai
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xinjiang Zhang
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Rui Chen
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yingang Sun
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanzhi Wu
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zeying Wang
- College of Animal Science andVeterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
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Genomic analysis of 21 patients with corneal neuralgia after refractive surgery. Pain Rep 2020; 5:e826. [PMID: 32766464 PMCID: PMC7390595 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000000826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Refractive surgery, specifically laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis and photorefractive keratectomy, are widely applied procedures to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. After surgery, a subgroup of cases suffers from persistent and intractable pain of obscure etiology, thought to be neuropathic. We aimed to investigate the contribution of genomic factors in the pathogenesis of these patients with corneal neuralgia. Methods We enrolled 21 cases (6 males and 15 females) from 20 unrelated families, who reported persistent pain (>3 months), after refractive surgery (20 laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis and 1 photorefractive keratectomy patients). Whole-exome sequencing and gene-based association test were performed. Results Whole-exome sequencing demonstrated low-frequency variants (allele frequency < 0.05) in electrogenisome-related ion channels and cornea-expressed collagens, most frequently in SCN10A (5 cases), SCN9A (4 cases), TRPV1 (4 cases), CACNA1H and CACNA2D2 (5 cases each), COL5A1 (6 cases), COL6A3 (5 cases), and COL4A2 (4 cases). Two variants, p.K655R of SCN9A and p.Q85R of TRPV1, were previously characterized as gain-of-function. Gene-based association test assessing "damaging" missense variants against gnomAD exome database (non-Finnish European or global), identified a gene, SLC9A3R1, with statistically significant effect (odds ratio = 17.09 or 17.04; Bonferroni-corrected P-value < 0.05). Conclusion These findings in a small patient cohort did not identify a common gene/variant among most of these cases, as found in other disorders, for example small-fiber neuropathy. Further studies of these candidate genes/variants might enhance understanding of the role of genetic factors in the pathogenesis of corneal neuralgia.
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Molecular Aspects of Regional Pain Syndrome. Pain Res Manag 2020; 2020:7697214. [PMID: 32351641 PMCID: PMC7171689 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7697214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to summarize the pathophysiology of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), the underlying molecular mechanisms, and potential treatment options for its management. CRPS is a multifactorial pain condition. CRPS is characterized by prolonged or excessive pain and changes in skin color and temperature, and/or swelling in the affected area, and is generally caused by stimuli that lead to tissue damage. An inflammatory response involving various cytokines and autoantibodies is generated in response to acute trauma/stress. Chronic phase pathophysiology is more complex, involving the central and peripheral nervous systems. Various genetic factors involved in the chronicity of pain have been identified in CRPS patients. As with other diseases of complex pathology, CRPS is difficult to treat and no single treatment regimen is the same for two patients. Stimulation of the vagus nerve is a promising technique being tested for different gastrointestinal and inflammatory diseases. CRPS is more frequent in individuals of 61–70 years of age with a female to male ratio of 3 : 1. Menopause, migraine, osteoporosis, and asthma all represent risk factors for CRPS and in smokers the prognosis appears to be more severe. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying CRPS involve both inflammatory and neurological pathways. Understanding the molecular basis of CRPS is important for its diagnosis, management, and treatment. For instance, vagal nerve stimulation might have the potential for treating CRPS through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway.
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Duan Y, Liu G, Sun Y, Wu J, Xiong Z, Jin T, Chen M. Collagen type VI α5 gene variations may predict the risk of lung cancer development in Chinese Han population. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5010. [PMID: 32193401 PMCID: PMC7081318 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61614-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The abundant expression of collagen type VI α5 (COL6A5) exists in lung tissue, and its role in lung cancer is still unknown. We performed a genetic association study with an attempt to detect the relationships between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in COL6A5 and lung cancer predisposition in Chinese Han population. We finally selected six tag-SNPs to determine their genotypes among 510 lung cancer patients and 495 healthy controls with the MassARRAY platform. The associations of SNPs and lung cancer risk were estimated by logistic regression method with adjustment for confounding factors. Two available databases were used for gene expression and prognosis analysis. COL6A5 rs13062453, rs1497305, and rs77123808 were significantly associated with the risk of lung cancer in the whole population or stratified subgroups (p < 0.05). Among them, COL6A5 rs13062453 and rs1497305 were also linked to the susceptibility of lung adenocarcinoma. Additionally, rs1497305 was found to be strongly related to the TNM staging under five genetic models (p < 0.05). Results from databases suggested the important role of COL6A5 in lung cancer development. COL6A5 polymorphisms rs13062453, rs1497305 and rs77123808 were associated with lung cancer risk in Chinese Han population. These findings first yield new insight of COL6A5 in lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Duan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Gaowen Liu
- Xianyang Central hospital, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 712000, China
| | - Yao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education. School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Jiamin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education. School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Zichao Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education. School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Tianbo Jin
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education. School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Mingwei Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
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Devigili G, Rinaldo S, Lombardi R, Cazzato D, Marchi M, Salvi E, Eleopra R, Lauria G. Diagnostic criteria for small fibre neuropathy in clinical practice and research. Brain 2019; 142:3728-3736. [PMID: 31665231 PMCID: PMC6906595 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnostic criteria for small fibre neuropathy are not established, influencing the approach to patients in clinical practice, their access to disease-modifying and symptomatic treatments, the use of healthcare resources, and the design of clinical trials. To address these issues, we performed a reappraisal study of 150 patients with sensory neuropathy and a prospective and follow-up validation study of 352 new subjects with suspected sensory neuropathy. Small fibre neuropathy diagnostic criteria were based on deep clinical phenotyping, quantitative sensory testing (QST) and intraepidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD). Small fibre neuropathy was ruled out in 5 of 150 patients (3.3%) of the reappraisal study. Small fibre neuropathy was diagnosed at baseline of the validation study in 149 of 352 patients (42.4%) based on the combination between two clinical signs and abnormal QST and IENFD (69.1%), abnormal QST alone (5.4%), or abnormal IENFD alone (20.1%). Eight patients (5.4%) had abnormal QST and IENFD but no clinical signs. Further, 38 patients complained of sensory symptoms but showed no clinical signs. Of those, 34 (89.4%) had normal QST and IENFD, 4 (10.5%) had abnormal QST and normal IENFD, and none had abnormal IENFD alone. At 18-month follow-up, 19 of them (56%) reported the complete recovery of symptoms and showed normal clinical, QST and IENFD findings. None of those with one single abnormal test (QST or IENFD) developed clinical signs or showed abnormal findings on the other test. Conversely, all eight patients with abnormal QST and IENFD at baseline developed clinical signs at follow-up. The combination of clinical signs and abnormal QST and/or IENFD findings can more reliably lead to the diagnosis of small fibre neuropathy than the combination of abnormal QST and IENFD findings in the absence of clinical signs. Sensory symptoms alone should not be considered a reliable screening feature. Our findings demonstrate that the combined clinical, functional and structural approach to the diagnosis of small fibre neuropathy is reliable and relevant both for clinical practice and clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Devigili
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Rinaldo
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Lombardi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Cazzato
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Marchi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Salvi
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Eleopra
- Movement Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico “Carlo Besta”, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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13
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Azmi S, Ferdousi M, Kalteniece A, Al-Muhannadi H, Al-Mohamedi A, Hadid NH, Mahmoud S, Bhat HA, Gad HYA, Khan A, Ponirakis G, Petropoulos IN, Alam U, Malik RA. Diagnosing and managing diabetic somatic and autonomic neuropathy. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2019; 10:2042018819826890. [PMID: 30783521 PMCID: PMC6365998 DOI: 10.1177/2042018819826890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis and management of diabetic neuropathy can be a major challenge. Late diagnosis contributes to significant morbidity in the form of painful diabetic neuropathy, foot ulceration, amputation, and increased mortality. Both hyperglycaemia and cardiovascular risk factors are implicated in the development of somatic and autonomic neuropathy and an improvement in these risk factors can reduce their rate of development and progression. There are currently no US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved disease-modifying treatments for either somatic or autonomic neuropathy, as a consequence of multiple failed phase III clinical trials. While this may be partly attributed to premature translation, there are major shortcomings in trial design and outcome measures. There are a limited number of partially effective FDA-approved treatments for the symptomatic relief of painful diabetic neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazli Azmi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Maryam Ferdousi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Alise Kalteniece
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester and Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | | | - Salah Mahmoud
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Harun A. Bhat
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hoda Y. A. Gad
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Adnan Khan
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Uazman Alam
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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14
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Gregorio I, Braghetta P, Bonaldo P, Cescon M. Collagen VI in healthy and diseased nervous system. Dis Model Mech 2018; 11:dmm032946. [PMID: 29728408 PMCID: PMC6031366 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.032946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagen VI is a major extracellular matrix protein exerting a number of functions in different tissues, spanning from biomechanical to regulatory signals in the cell survival processes, and playing key roles in maintaining the stemness or determining the differentiation of several types of cells. In the last couple of years, emerging findings on collagen VI have led to increased interest in its role in the nervous system. The role of this protein in the peripheral nervous system was intensely studied and characterized in detail. Collagen VI acts as a regulator of Schwann cell differentiation and is required for preserving peripheral nerve myelination, function and structure, as well as for orchestrating nerve regeneration after injury. Although the role and distribution of collagen VI in the peripheral nervous system is now well established, the role of this distinctive extracellular matrix component in the central nervous system, along with its links to human neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, remains an open field of investigation. In this Review, we summarize and discuss a number of recent findings related to collagen VI in the central and peripheral nervous systems. We further link these findings to different aspects of the protein that are relevant to human diseases in these compartments in order to provide a comprehensive overview of the roles of this key matrix component in the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Gregorio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Paola Braghetta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Bonaldo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Matilde Cescon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
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15
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Philippeos C, Telerman SB, Oulès B, Pisco AO, Shaw TJ, Elgueta R, Lombardi G, Driskell RR, Soldin M, Lynch MD, Watt FM. Spatial and Single-Cell Transcriptional Profiling Identifies Functionally Distinct Human Dermal Fibroblast Subpopulations. J Invest Dermatol 2018; 138:811-825. [PMID: 29391249 PMCID: PMC5869055 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that mouse dermis is composed of functionally distinct fibroblast lineages. To explore the extent of fibroblast heterogeneity in human skin, we used a combination of comparative spatial transcriptional profiling of human and mouse dermis and single-cell transcriptional profiling of human dermal fibroblasts. We show that there are at least four distinct fibroblast populations in adult human skin, not all of which are spatially segregated. We define markers permitting their isolation and show that although marker expression is lost in culture, different fibroblast subpopulations retain distinct functionality in terms of Wnt signaling, responsiveness to IFN-γ, and ability to support human epidermal reconstitution when introduced into decellularized dermis. These findings suggest that ex vivo expansion or in vivo ablation of specific fibroblast subpopulations may have therapeutic applications in wound healing and diseases characterized by excessive fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Philippeos
- King's College London Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Stephanie B Telerman
- King's College London Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Bénédicte Oulès
- King's College London Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Angela O Pisco
- King's College London Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Tanya J Shaw
- King's College London Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology of Inflammation, London, UK
| | - Raul Elgueta
- King's College London MRC Centre for Transplantation, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Giovanna Lombardi
- King's College London MRC Centre for Transplantation, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Ryan R Driskell
- King's College London Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK; School of Molecular Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Mark Soldin
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, St. George's National Health Service Trust, London, UK
| | - Magnus D Lynch
- King's College London Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK; St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - Fiona M Watt
- King's College London Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK.
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