1
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Matson MJ, Bushmaker T, Scott DP, Rosenke R, Saturday G, Chertow DS, Munster VJ. Ebola Virus Tropism in Ex Vivo Cynomolgus Macaque Ocular Tissues. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:S626-S630. [PMID: 37386692 PMCID: PMC10651198 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad239] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular complications of Ebola virus disease are well-documented and long-term sequelae in survivors are common and lead to considerable morbidity. However, little is currently known regarding EBOV's tropism and replication kinetics within the eye. To date, limited studies have utilized in vitro infections of ocular cell lines and analyses of archived pathology samples to investigate these issues. Here, we employed ex vivo cultures of cynomolgus macaque eyes to determine the tropism of EBOV in 7 different ocular tissues: cornea, anterior sclera with bulbar conjunctiva, ciliary body, iris, lens, neural retina, and retina pigment epithelium. We report that, except for neural retina, all tissues supported EBOV replication. Retina pigment epithelium produced the fastest growth and highest viral RNA loads, although the differences were not statistically significant. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed and further characterized infection. This study demonstrates that EBOV has a broad tropism within the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jeremiah Matson
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Trent Bushmaker
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Dana P Scott
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MontanaUSA
| | - Rebecca Rosenke
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MontanaUSA
| | - Greg Saturday
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MontanaUSA
| | - Daniel S Chertow
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Vincent J Munster
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
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2
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Mao M, Labelle-Dumais C, Tufa SF, Keene DR, Gould DB. Elevated TGFβ signaling contributes to ocular anterior segment dysgenesis in Col4a1 mutant mice. Matrix Biol 2022; 110:151-173. [PMID: 35525525 PMCID: PMC10410753 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.05.001] [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: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Ocular anterior segment dysgenesis (ASD) refers to a collection of developmental disorders affecting the anterior structures of the eye. Although a number of genes have been implicated in the etiology of ASD, the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms remain unclear. Mutations in genes encoding collagen type IV alpha 1 (COL4A1) and alpha 2 (COL4A2) cause Gould syndrome, a multi-system disorder that often includes ocular manifestations such as ASD and glaucoma. COL4A1 and COL4A2 are abundant basement membrane proteins that provide structural support to tissues and modulate signaling through interactions with other extracellular matrix proteins, growth factors, and cell surface receptors. In this study, we used a combination of histological, molecular, genetic and pharmacological approaches to demonstrate that altered TGFβ signaling contributes to ASD in mouse models of Gould syndrome. We show that TGFβ signaling was elevated in anterior segments from Col4a1 mutant mice and that genetically reducing TGFβ signaling partially prevented ASD. Notably, we identified distinct roles for TGFβ1 and TGFβ2 in ocular defects observed in Col4a1 mutant mice. Importantly, we show that pharmacologically promoting type IV collagen secretion or reducing TGFβ signaling ameliorated ocular pathology in Col4a1 mutant mice. Overall, our findings demonstrate that altered TGFβ signaling contributes to COL4A1-related ocular dysgenesis and implicate this pathway as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of Gould syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Mao
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Cassandre Labelle-Dumais
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Sara F Tufa
- Shriners Children's, Micro-Imaging Center, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Douglas R Keene
- Shriners Children's, Micro-Imaging Center, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Douglas B Gould
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States; Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States; Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States; Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States; Bakar Aging Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States.
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3
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Cao S, Zhang S. Forkhead-box C1 attenuates high glucose-induced trophoblast cell injury during gestational diabetes mellitus via activating adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase through regulating fibroblast growth factor 19. Bioengineered 2022; 13:1174-1184. [PMID: 34982020 PMCID: PMC8805828 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2018094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a complication developed during pregnancy and recover after childbirth. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective role of FOXC1 during GDM and the underlying mechanism. FOXC1 was downregulated in GDM placental tissues and HG-treated HTR-8/SVneo cells. Overexpression of FOXC1 prevented HG-induced inhibition of cell proliferation, migration and invasion. FOXC1 suppressed HG-induced cell apoptosis in HTR-8/SVneo cells. The apoptosis-related proteins: cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9 and BAX, were also downregulated by FOXC1 overexpression. FOXC1 increased glucose uptake and improved insulin sensitivity. The expression of FOXC1 was positively correlated with FGF19 expression. FOXC1 regulated the expression of FGF19 and phosphorylation of AMPK. Inhibition of FGF19 attenuated the biological functions of FOXC1 through inactivation of AMPK. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that FOXC1 attenuates HG-induced trophoblast cell injury through upregulating FGF19 to activate the AMPK signaling pathway during GDM, suggesting that FOXC1 is a potential therapeutic target for drug discovery in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Cao
- Department of Obstetrics, Xuzhou First People’s Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Shuxuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xuzhou First People’s Hospital, Xuzhou, China
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4
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French CR. Mechanistic Insights into Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome from Zebrafish foxc1 and pitx2 Mutants. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810001. [PMID: 34576164 PMCID: PMC8472202 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome (ARS) encompasses a group of developmental disorders that affect the anterior segment of the eye, as well as systemic developmental defects in some patients. Malformation of the ocular anterior segment often leads to secondary glaucoma, while some patients also present with cardiovascular malformations, craniofacial and dental abnormalities and additional periumbilical skin. Genes that encode two transcription factors, FOXC1 and PITX2, account for almost half of known cases, while the genetic lesions in the remaining cases remain unresolved. Given the genetic similarity between zebrafish and humans, as well as robust antisense inhibition and gene editing technologies available for use in these animals, loss of function zebrafish models for ARS have been created and shed light on the mechanism(s) whereby mutations in these two transcription factors cause such a wide array of developmental phenotypes. This review summarizes the published phenotypes in zebrafish foxc1 and pitx2 loss of function models and discusses possible mechanisms that may be used to target pharmaceutical development and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis R French
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL A1B 3V6, Canada
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5
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The Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 191:1180-1192. [PMID: 34000282 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common type of cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Liver resection or liver transplantation is the most effective therapy for HCC because drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat patients with unresectable HCC have an unfavorable overall survival rate. Therefore, the development of biomarkers for early diagnosis and effective therapy strategies are still necessary to improve patient outcomes. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 19 was amplified in patients with HCC from various studies, including patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas. FGF19 plays a syngeneic function with other signaling pathways in primary liver cancer development, such as epidermal growth factor receptor, Wnt/β-catenin, the endoplasmic reticulum-related signaling pathway, STAT3/IL-6, RAS, and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase, among others. The current review presents a comprehensive description of the FGF19 signaling pathway involved in liver cancer development. The use of big data and bioinformatic analysis can provide useful clues for further studies of the FGF19 pathway in HCC, including its application as a biomarker, targeted therapy, and combination therapy strategies.
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6
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Weigele J, Bohnsack BL. Genetics Underlying the Interactions between Neural Crest Cells and Eye Development. J Dev Biol 2020; 8:jdb8040026. [PMID: 33182738 PMCID: PMC7712190 DOI: 10.3390/jdb8040026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The neural crest is a unique, transient stem cell population that is critical for craniofacial and ocular development. Understanding the genetics underlying the steps of neural crest development is essential for gaining insight into the pathogenesis of congenital eye diseases. The neural crest cells play an under-appreciated key role in patterning the neural epithelial-derived optic cup. These interactions between neural crest cells within the periocular mesenchyme and the optic cup, while not well-studied, are critical for optic cup morphogenesis and ocular fissure closure. As a result, microphthalmia and coloboma are common phenotypes in human disease and animal models in which neural crest cell specification and early migration are disrupted. In addition, neural crest cells directly contribute to numerous ocular structures including the cornea, iris, sclera, ciliary body, trabecular meshwork, and aqueous outflow tracts. Defects in later neural crest cell migration and differentiation cause a constellation of well-recognized ocular anterior segment anomalies such as Axenfeld–Rieger Syndrome and Peters Anomaly. This review will focus on the genetics of the neural crest cells within the context of how these complex processes specifically affect overall ocular development and can lead to congenital eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Weigele
- Division of Ophthalmology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 E. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 645 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Brenda L. Bohnsack
- Division of Ophthalmology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 E. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 645 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-312-227-6180; Fax: +1-312-227-9411
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7
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Yang S, Lu W, Zhao C, Zhai Y, Wei Y, Liu J, Yu Y, Li Z, Shi J. Leukemia cells remodel marrow adipocytes via TRPV4-dependent lipolysis. Haematologica 2020; 105:2572-2583. [PMID: 33131246 PMCID: PMC7604636 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2019.225763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Remodeling of adipocyte morphology and function plays a critical role in prostate cancer development. We previously reported that leukemia cells secrete growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15),which remodels the residual bone marrow (BM) adipocytes into small adipocytes and is associated with a poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. However, little is known about how GDF15 drives BM adipocyte remodeling. In this study, we examined the role of the transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) channels in the remodeling of BM adipocytes exposed to GDF15. We found that TRPV4 negatively regulated GDF15-induced remodeling of BM adipocytes. Furthermore, transforming growth factor-β type II receptor (TGFβRII) was identified as the main receptor for GDF15 on BM adipocytes. PI3K inhibitor treatment reduced GDF15-induced pAKT, identifying PI3K/AKT as the downstream stress response pathway. Subsequently, GDF15 reduced the expression of the transcription factor Forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) in BM adipocytes subjected to RNA-seq screening and Western blot analyse. Moreover, it was also confirmed that FOXC1 combined with the TRPV4 promoter by the Chip-qPCR experiments, which suggests that FOXC1 mediates GDF15 regulation of TRPV4. In addition, an AML mouse model exhibited smaller BM adipocytes, whereas the TRPV4 activator 4α-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate (4αPDD) partly rescued this process and increased survival. In conclusion, TRPV4 plays a critical role in BM adipocyte remodeling induced by leukemia cells, suggesting that targeting TRPV4 may constitute a novel strategy for AML therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxin Yang
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine
| | - Chong Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital
| | - Yuanmei Zhai
- Department of Hematology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
| | - Yanyu Wei
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine
| | - Jiali Liu
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital
| | - Yehua Yu
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Shi
- Department of Hematology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine
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8
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Huang P, Russell AL, Lefavor R, Durand NC, James E, Harvey L, Zhang C, Countryman S, Stodieck L, Zubair AC. Feasibility, potency, and safety of growing human mesenchymal stem cells in space for clinical application. NPJ Microgravity 2020; 6:16. [PMID: 32529028 PMCID: PMC7264338 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-020-0106-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing stem cells on Earth is very challenging and limited to a few population doublings. The standard two-dimensional (2D) culture environment is an unnatural condition for cell growth. Therefore, culturing stem cells aboard the International Space Station (ISS) under a microgravity environment may provide a more natural three-dimensional environment for stem cell expansion and organ development. In this study, human-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) grown in space were evaluated to determine their potential use for future clinical applications on Earth and during long-term spaceflight. MSCs were flown in Plate Habitats for transportation to the ISS. The MSCs were imaged every 24-48 h and harvested at 7 and 14 days. Conditioned media samples were frozen at -80 °C and cells were either cryopreserved in 5% dimethyl sulfoxide, RNAprotect, or paraformaldehyde. After return to Earth, MSCs were characterized to establish their identity and cell cycle status. In addition, cell proliferation, differentiation, cytokines, and growth factors' secretion were assessed. To evaluate the risk of malignant transformation, the space-grown MSCs were subjected to chromosomal, DNA damage, and tumorigenicity assays. We found that microgravity had significant impact on the MSC capacity to secrete cytokines and growth factors. They appeared to be more potent in terms of immunosuppressive capacity compared to their identical ground control. Chromosomal, DNA damage, and tumorigenicity assays showed no evidence of malignant transformation. Therefore, it is feasible and potentially safe to grow MSCs aboard the ISS for potential future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA
| | - Athena L Russell
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA
| | - Rebecca Lefavor
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA
| | - Nisha C Durand
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA
| | - Elle James
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA
| | - Larry Harvey
- Center for Applied Space Technologies, Merritt Island, FL USA
| | - Cuiping Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA
| | - Stefanie Countryman
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO USA
| | - Louis Stodieck
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO USA
| | - Abba C Zubair
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL USA
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9
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Gong R, Lin W, Gao A, Liu Y, Li J, Sun M, Chen X, Han S, Men C, Sun Y, Liu J. Forkhead box C1 promotes metastasis and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer by binding directly to the lysyl oxidase promoter. Cancer Sci 2019; 110:3663-3676. [PMID: 31597217 PMCID: PMC6890438 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that human forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) plays important roles in tumor development and metastasis. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of FOXC1 in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) metastasis remains unclear. Here, we identified FOXC1 as an independent prognostic factor in NSCLC and showed clear biological implications in invasion and metastasis. FOXC1 overexpression enhanced the proliferation, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells, whereas FOXC1 silencing impaired the effects both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, we found a positive correlation between FOXC1 expression and lysyl oxidase (LOX) expression in NSCLC cells and patient samples. Downregulation of LOX or LOX activity inhibition in NSCLC cells inhibited the FOXC1‐driven effects on cellular migration and invasion. Xenograft models showed that inhibition of LOX activity by β‐aminopropionitrile monofumarate decreased the number of lung metastases. Mechanistically, we demonstrated a novel FOXC1‐LOX mechanism that was involved in the invasion and metastasis of NSCLC. Dual‐luciferase assay and ChIP identified that FOXC1 bound directly in the LOX promoter region and activated its transcription. Collectively, the present study offered new insight into FOXC1 in the mediation of NSCLC metastasis through interaction with the LOX promoter and further revealed that targeted inhibition of LOX protein activity could prevent lung metastasis in murine xenograft models. These data implicated FOXC1 as a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of NSCLC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumei Gong
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenli Lin
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Aiqin Gao
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yanli Liu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Radio-Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Jinan, China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Meili Sun
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaozheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shuyi Han
- Genetic and Molecular Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chengsong Men
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuping Sun
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Oncology, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
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10
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Lee YH, Lee HT, Chen CL, Chang CH, Hsu CY, Shyu WC. Role of FOXC1 in regulating APSCs self-renewal via STI-1/PrP C signaling. Am J Cancer Res 2019; 9:6443-6465. [PMID: 31588228 PMCID: PMC6771253 DOI: 10.7150/thno.35619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Forkhead box protein C1 (FOXC1) is known to regulate developmental processes in the skull and brain. Methods: The unique multipotent arachnoid-pia stem cells (APSCs) isolated from human and mouse arachnoid-pia membranes of meninges were grown as 3D spheres and displayed a capacity for self-renewal. Additionally, APSCs also expressed the surface antigens as mesenchymal stem cells. By applying the FOXC1 knockout mice and mouse brain explants, signaling cascade of FOXC1-STI-1-PrPC was investigated to demonstrate the molecular regulatory pathway for APSCs self-renewal. Moreover, APSCs implantation in stroke model was also verified whether neurogenic property of APSCs could repair the ischemic insult of the stroke brain. Results: Activated FOXC1 regulated the proliferation of APSCs in a cell cycle-dependent manner, whereas FOXC1-mediated APSCs self-renewal was abolished in FOXC1 knockout mice (FOXC1-/- mice). Moreover, upregulation of STI-1 regulated by FOXC1 enhanced cell survival and self-renewal of APSCs through autocrine signaling of cellular prion protein (PrPC). Mouse brain explants STI-1 rescues the cortical phenotype in vitro and induces neurogenesis in the FOXC1 -/- mouse brain. Furthermore, administration of APSCs in ischemic brain restored the neuroglial microenvironment and improved neurological dysfunction. Conclusion: We identified a novel role for FOXC1 in the direct regulation of the STI-1-PrPC signaling pathway to promote cell proliferation and self-renewal of APSCs.
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11
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Chen X, Wu L, Li Z, Dong Y, Pei X, Huang Y, Wang L. Directed Differentiation of Human Corneal Endothelial Cells From Human Embryonic Stem Cells by Using Cell-Conditioned Culture Media. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:3028-3036. [PMID: 30025120 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose A shortage of human corneal endothelial cells (HCEC) for transplant and current methods of differentiation induction require chemical compounds, which might cast further influences after differentiation induction. Therefore, we developed a simple and straightforward approach to endothelial cell differentiation from human embryonic stem cells (hESC). Methods HESC are used to differentiate into HCEC by employing a two-stage method, which involves the application of two different types of conditioned culture medium, human corneal stromal cell-conditioned medium (HCSC-CM) and lens epithelial cell (LEC) plus HCSC-CM (LEC-CM+HCEC-CM). In brief, hESCs were treated with different conditioned media to induce directed endothelial differentiation. Results In the presence of conditioned culture medium, embryonic stem cells differentiate first under the control of periocular mesenchymal precursors (POMPs). Consequently, the expression of several POMP markers was observed. Following this first stage differentiation, POMPs were further directed to differentiate into corneal endothelial cell (CEC)-like cells in the presence of the second-conditioned culture medium. The differentiation of POMPs into CEC-like cells is regulated by a TGFβ-2/FOXC1 signaling pathway that is activated by the factors present in the conditioned culture medium. Conclusions HCEC-like cells could be differentiated from hESC by simply using a two-step, preconditioned, medium-mediated approach, which could significantly minimize the workload to generate HCEC for potential clinical use. This research may provide an ideal cell source for corneal regenerative medicine and clinical treatment for corneal diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoniao Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Department of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zongjin Li
- Department of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The first affiliated hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xuetao Pei
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Lab, Beijing Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Liqiang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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12
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Umali J, Hawkey-Noble A, French CR. Loss of foxc1 in zebrafish reduces optic nerve size and cell number in the retinal ganglion cell layer. Vision Res 2019; 156:66-72. [PMID: 30684501 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2019.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Mutation of FOXC1 causes Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome (ARS) with early onset or congenital glaucoma. We assessed retinal ganglion cell (RGC) number in zebrafish due to CRISPR-mediated mutation and antisense inhibition of two-forkhead box transcription factors, foxc1a and foxc1b. These genes represent duplicated homologues of human FOXC1. Using a CRISPR induced null mutation in foxc1b, in combination with antisense inhibition of foxc1a, we demonstrate reduced cell number in the retinal ganglion cell layer of developing zebrafish eyes. As early as 5 days post fertilization (dpf), fewer RGCs are found in foxc1b homozygous mutants injected with foxc1a morpholinos, and a thinner optic nerve results. Our data illustrates that foxc1 is required for the expression of atonal homolog 7 (atoh7), a gene that is necessary for RGC differentiation. As markers of differentiated RGCs (pou4f2) are downregulated in foxc1b-/- mutants injected with foxc1a morpholinos and no cell death is observed, our results are consistent with defects in the differentiation of RGCs leading to reduced cell number, as opposed to increased cell death of RGCs or off targets effects of morpholino injection. Our zebrafish model demonstrates that aberrant regulation of RGC number could act in concert with other known glaucoma risk factors to influence the development of congenital and early onset glaucoma due to FOXC1 mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jurgienne Umali
- Discipline of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Alexia Hawkey-Noble
- Discipline of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Curtis R French
- Discipline of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada.
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13
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Somm E, Jornayvaz FR. Fibroblast Growth Factor 15/19: From Basic Functions to Therapeutic Perspectives. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:960-989. [PMID: 30124818 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Discovered 20 years ago, fibroblast growth factor (FGF)19, and its mouse ortholog FGF15, were the first members of a new subfamily of FGFs able to act as hormones. During fetal life, FGF15/19 is involved in organogenesis, affecting the development of the ear, eye, heart, and brain. At adulthood, FGF15/19 is mainly produced by the ileum, acting on the liver to repress hepatic bile acid synthesis and promote postprandial nutrient partitioning. In rodents, pharmacologic doses of FGF19 induce the same antiobesity and antidiabetic actions as FGF21, with these metabolic effects being partly mediated by the brain. However, activation of hepatocyte proliferation by FGF19 has long been a challenge to its therapeutic use. Recently, genetic reengineering of the molecule has resolved this issue. Despite a global overlap in expression pattern and function, murine FGF15 and human FGF19 exhibit several differences in terms of regulation, molecular structure, signaling, and biological properties. As most of the knowledge originates from the use of FGF19 in murine models, differences between mice and humans in the biology of FGF15/19 have to be considered for a successful translation from bench to bedside. This review summarizes the basic knowledge concerning FGF15/19 in mice and humans, with a special focus on regulation of production, morphogenic properties, hepatocyte growth, bile acid homeostasis, as well as actions on glucose, lipid, and energy homeostasis. Moreover, implications and therapeutic perspectives concerning FGF19 in human diseases (including obesity, type 2 diabetes, hepatic steatosis, biliary disorders, and cancer) are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Somm
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Hypertension, and Nutrition, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - François R Jornayvaz
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Hypertension, and Nutrition, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
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14
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Wang J, Li W, Zheng X, Pang X, Du G. Research progress on the forkhead box C1. Oncotarget 2017; 9:12471-12478. [PMID: 29552326 PMCID: PMC5844762 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.22527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
FOXC1 is a vital member of FOX families which play important roles in biological processes including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, metabolism, and longevity. Here we are focusing on roles of FOXC1 and their mechanisms in cancers. FOXC1 promoted progress of many cancers, such as breast cancer (especially basal-like breast cancer), hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer and so on. FOXC1 was also found to be associated with drug resistance of cancers. FOXC1 promoted metastasis of cancers by increasing expression of MMP7, NEDD9 and Snail. Proliferation and invasion of cancers were increased by FOXC1 by mediating NF-κB, MST1R and KLF4 expression. FOXC1 was associated with development by regulating expression of FGF19 and MSX1. Recently, FOXC1 was found to be required for niche of stem cells or development of stem cells by mediating expression of Gli2, CXCL12, SCF, NFATC1, BMP and Myh7. Overall, FOXC1 exerts its functions by many mechanisms and may be used as a potential biomarker for diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wan Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiangjin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaocong Pang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Guanhua Du
- The State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China.,Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Drug Screen, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
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15
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Wang W, Wang X, Zhang Y, Li Z, Xie X, Wang J, Gao M, Zhang S, Hou Y. Transcriptome Analysis of Canine Cardiac Fat Pads: Involvement of Two Novel Long Non-Coding RNAs in Atrial Fibrillation Neural Remodeling. J Cell Biochem 2015; 116:809-21. [PMID: 25559442 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.25037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Weizong Wang
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
| | - Ximin Wang
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
| | - Yujiao Zhang
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
| | - Zhan Li
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
| | - Xinxing Xie
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
| | - Jiangrong Wang
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
| | - Mei Gao
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
| | - Shuyu Zhang
- School of Radiation Medicine and Protection and Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions; Soochow University; Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Yinglong Hou
- Department of Cardiology; Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan 250014 China
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16
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Chhetri J, Jacobson G, Gueven N. Zebrafish--on the move towards ophthalmological research. Eye (Lond) 2014; 28:367-80. [PMID: 24503724 PMCID: PMC3983641 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2014.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Millions of people are affected by visual impairment and blindness globally, and the prevalence of vision loss is likely to increase as we are living longer. However, many ocular diseases remain poorly controlled due to lack of proper understanding of the pathogenesis and the corresponding lack of effective therapies. Consequently, there is a major need for animal models that closely mirror the human eye pathology and at the same time allow higher-throughput drug screening approaches. In this context, zebrafish as an animal model organism not only address these needs but can in many respects reflect the human situation better than the current rodent models. Over the past decade, zebrafish have become an established model to study a variety of human diseases and are more recently becoming a valuable tool for the study of human ophthalmological disorders. Many human ocular diseases such as cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration have already been modelled in zebrafish. In addition, zebrafish have become an attractive model for pre-clinical drug toxicity testing and are now increasingly used by scientists worldwide for the discovery of novel treatment approaches. This review presents the advantages and uses of zebrafish for ophthalmological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Chhetri
- School of Pharmacy, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - G Jacobson
- School of Pharmacy, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - N Gueven
- School of Pharmacy, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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17
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Ito YA, Goping IS, Berry F, Walter MA. Dysfunction of the stress-responsive FOXC1 transcription factor contributes to the earlier-onset glaucoma observed in Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome patients. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1069. [PMID: 24556684 PMCID: PMC3944279 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Revised: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the Forkhead Box C1 (FOXC1) transcription factor gene are associated with Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome (ARS), a developmental disorder affecting structures in the anterior segment of the eye. Approximately 75% of ARS patients with FOXC1 mutations develop earlier-onset glaucoma. Constant exposure of the trabecular meshwork (TM), located in the anterior segment of the eye, to oxidative stress is predicted to be a risk factor for developing glaucoma. Stress-induced death of TM cells results in dysfunction of the TM, leading to elevated intraocular pressure, which is a major risk factor for developing glaucoma. FOXC1 is predicted to maintain homeostasis in TM cells by regulating genes that are important for stress response. In this study, we show that a member of the heat-shock 70 family of proteins, HSPA6, is a target gene of FOXC1. HSPA6 protein, which is only induced under severe oxidative stress conditions, has a protective function in human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells. We also show that FOXC1 is anti-apoptotic as knocking down FOXC1 significantly decreases HTM cell viability. In addition, we show that FOXC1 itself responds to stress as exposure of cells to H2O2-induced oxidative stress reduces FOXC1 levels and activity. Conditions that decrease FOXC1 function, such as exposure of cells to oxidative stress and FOXC1 ARS mutations, compromise the ability of TM cells to effectively respond to environmental stresses. Dysfunction of FOXC1 contributes to the death of TM cells, an important step in the development of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y A Ito
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - I S Goping
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - F Berry
- 1] Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada [2] Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - M A Walter
- 1] Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada [2] Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alberta, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
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18
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Rohs P, Ebert AM, Zuba A, McFarlane S. Neuronal expression of fibroblast growth factor receptors in zebrafish. Gene Expr Patterns 2013; 13:354-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2013.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2012] [Revised: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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19
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Mirzayans F, Lavy R, Penner-Chea J, Berry FB. Initiation of early osteoblast differentiation events through the direct transcriptional regulation of Msx2 by FOXC1. PLoS One 2012; 7:e49095. [PMID: 23145080 PMCID: PMC3492307 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2012] [Accepted: 10/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hierarchal transcriptional regulatory networks function to control the correct spatiotemporal patterning of the mammalian skeletal system. One such factor, the forkhead box transcription factor FOXC1 is necessary for the correct formation of the axial and craniofacial skeleton. Previous studies have demonstrated that the frontal and parietal bones of the skull fail to develop in mice deficient for Foxc1. Furthermore expression of the Msx2 homeobox gene, an essential regulator of calvarial bone development is absent in the skull mesenchymal progenitors of Foxc1 mutant mice. Thus we sought to determine whether Msx2 was a direct target of FOXC1 transcriptional regulation. Here, we demonstrate that elevated expression of FOXC1 can increase endogenous Msx2 mRNA levels. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments reveal that FOXC1 occupies a conserved element in the MSX2 promoter. Using a luciferase reporter assay, we demonstrate that FOXC1 can stimulate the activity of the both human and mouse MSX2 promoters. We also report that reducing FOXC1 levels by RNA interference leads to a decrease in MSX2 expression. Finally, we demonstrate that heterologous expression of Foxc1 in C2C12 cells results in elevated alkaline phosphatase activity and increased expression of Runx2 and Msx2. These data indicate that Foxc1 expression leads to a similar enhanced osteogenic differentiation phenotype as observed with Msx2 overexpression. Together these findings suggest that a Foxc1->Msx2 regulatory network functions in the initial stages of osteoblast differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farideh Mirzayans
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rotem Lavy
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan Penner-Chea
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Fred B. Berry
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- * E-mail:
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20
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Gregory-Evans CY, Wallace VA, Gregory-Evans K. Gene networks: dissecting pathways in retinal development and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2012; 33:40-66. [PMID: 23128416 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2012.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Revised: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
During retinal neurogenesis, diverse cellular subtypes originate from multipotent neural progenitors in a spatiotemporal order leading to a highly specialized laminar structure combined with a distinct mosaic architecture. This is driven by the combinatorial action of transcription factors and signaling molecules which specify cell fate and differentiation. The emerging approach of gene network analysis has allowed a better understanding of the functional relationships between genes expressed in the developing retina. For instance, these gene networks have identified transcriptional hubs that have revealed potential targets and pathways for the development of therapeutic options for retinal diseases. Much of the current knowledge has been informed by targeted gene deletion experiments and gain-of-functional analysis. In this review we will provide an update on retinal development gene networks and address the wider implications for future disease therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Y Gregory-Evans
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3N9, Canada.
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21
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Gestri G, Link BA, Neuhauss SCF. The visual system of zebrafish and its use to model human ocular diseases. Dev Neurobiol 2012; 72:302-27. [PMID: 21595048 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.20919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Free swimming zebrafish larvae depend mainly on their sense of vision to evade predation and to catch prey. Hence, there is strong selective pressure on the fast maturation of visual function and indeed the visual system already supports a number of visually driven behaviors in the newly hatched larvae.The ability to exploit the genetic and embryonic accessibility of the zebrafish in combination with a behavioral assessment of visual system function has made the zebrafish a popular model to study vision and its diseases.Here, we review the anatomy, physiology, and development of the zebrafish eye as the basis to relate the contributions of the zebrafish to our understanding of human ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Gestri
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College, London,UK.
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22
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Danciu TE, Chupreta S, Cruz O, Fox JE, Whitman M, Iñiguez-Lluhí JA. Small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) modification mediates function of the inhibitory domains of developmental regulators FOXC1 and FOXC2. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:18318-29. [PMID: 22493429 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.339424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
FOXC1 and FOXC2 are forkhead transcription factors that play essential roles during development and physiology. Despite their critical role, the mechanisms that regulate the function of these factors remain poorly understood. We have identified conserved motifs within a previously defined N-terminal negative regulatory region of FOXC1/C2 that conforms to the definition of synergy control or SC motifs. Because such motifs inhibit the activity of transcription factors by serving as sites of post-translational modification by small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO), we have examined whether FOXC1/C2 are targets of SUMOylation and probed the functional significance of this modification. We find that endogenous FOXC1 forms modified by SUMO2/3 can be detected. Moreover, in cell culture, all three SUMO isoforms are readily conjugated to FOXC1 and FOXC2. The modification can be reconstituted in vitro with purified components and can be reversed in vitro by treatment with the SUMO protease SENP2. SUMOylation of FOXC1 and FOXC2 occurs primarily on one consensus synergy control motif with minor contributions of a second, more degenerate site. Notably, although FOXC1 is also phosphorylated at multiple sites, disruption of sites immediately downstream of the SC motifs does not influence SUMOylation. Consistent with a negative functional role, SUMOylation-deficient mutants displayed higher transcriptional activity when compared with wild type forms despite comparable protein levels and subcellular localization. Thus, the findings demonstrate that SC motifs mediate the inhibitory function of this region by serving as sites for SUMOylation and reveal a novel mechanism for acute and reversible regulation of FOXC1/C2 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora E Danciu
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
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23
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Acharya M, Huang L, Fleisch VC, Allison WT, Walter MA. A complex regulatory network of transcription factors critical for ocular development and disease. Hum Mol Genet 2011; 20:1610-24. [PMID: 21282189 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The PITX2 'homeobox' and FOXC1 and FOXC2 'forkhead box' transcription factors are critical for eye development and cause human ocular diseases when mutated. We have identified biochemical and genetic links between these transcription factors and a transcriptional regulator protein PRKC apoptosis Wilms' tumor 1 regulator (PAWR) that we propose to functionally connect all these proteins in a common pathway critically involved in eye development. We discovered all binary physical interactions between FOXC1, PITX2, FOXC2 and PAWR. Importantly, PAWR modulates the abilities of PITX2, FOXC1 and FOXC2 to activate their genetic targets. Together with either FOXC1 or FOXC2, PAWR increases PITX2 activity. PAWR reduces PITX2 activity in the absence of FOXC1 or FOXC2. At the same time, PAWR also exerts different regulatory effects on different FOXC target sites. Furthermore, morpholino knockdown of pitx2, foxc1 and pawr in zebrafish indicate that PAWR, FOXC1 and PITX2 genetically interact, and are in the same developmental pathway. These data for the first time tie PITX2, FOXC1, FOXC2 and PAWR into a common regulatory pathway. We have therefore identified a functional link between three transcription factors, modulated by PAWR, which we propose underlies the similar ocular phenotypes and glaucoma pathology caused by mutations of these genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moulinath Acharya
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2H7.
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24
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Bibliowicz J, Tittle RK, Gross JM. Toward a better understanding of human eye disease insights from the zebrafish, Danio rerio. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2011; 100:287-330. [PMID: 21377629 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-384878-9.00007-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Visual impairment and blindness is widespread across the human population, and the development of therapies for ocular pathologies is of high priority. The zebrafish represents a valuable model organism for studying human ocular disease; it is utilized in eye research to understand underlying developmental processes, to identify potential causative genes for human disorders, and to develop therapies. Zebrafish eyes are similar in morphology, physiology, gene expression, and function to human eyes. Furthermore, zebrafish are highly amenable to laboratory research. This review outlines the use of zebrafish as a model for human ocular diseases such as colobomas, glaucoma, cataracts, photoreceptor degeneration, as well as dystrophies of the cornea and retinal pigmented epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Bibliowicz
- University of Texas at Austin, Section of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, Austin, Texas, USA
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25
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Fetterman CD, Mirzayans F, Walter MA. Characterization of a novel FOXC1 mutation, P297S, identified in two individuals with anterior segment dysgenesis. Clin Genet 2010; 76:296-9. [PMID: 19793056 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0004.2009.01210.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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26
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Iwao K, Inatani M, Matsumoto Y, Ogata-Iwao M, Takihara Y, Irie F, Yamaguchi Y, Okinami S, Tanihara H. Heparan sulfate deficiency leads to Peters anomaly in mice by disturbing neural crest TGF-beta2 signaling. J Clin Invest 2009; 119:1997-2008. [PMID: 19509472 PMCID: PMC2701878 DOI: 10.1172/jci38519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2009] [Accepted: 04/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
During human embryogenesis, neural crest cells migrate to the anterior chamber of the eye and then differentiate into the inner layers of the cornea, the iridocorneal angle, and the anterior portion of the iris. When proper development does not occur, this causes iridocorneal angle dysgenesis and intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation, which ultimately results in developmental glaucoma. Here, we show that heparan sulfate (HS) deficiency in mouse neural crest cells causes anterior chamber dysgenesis, including corneal endothelium defects, corneal stroma hypoplasia, and iridocorneal angle dysgenesis. These dysfunctions are phenotypes of the human developmental glaucoma, Peters anomaly. In the neural crest cells of mice embryos, disruption of the gene encoding exostosin 1 (Ext1), which is an indispensable enzyme for HS synthesis, resulted in disturbed TGF-beta2 signaling. This led to reduced phosphorylation of Smad2 and downregulated expression of forkhead box C1 (Foxc1) and paired-like homeodomain transcription factor 2 (Pitx2), transcription factors that have been identified as the causative genes for developmental glaucoma. Furthermore, impaired interactions between HS and TGF-beta2 induced developmental glaucoma, which was manifested as an IOP elevation caused by iridocorneal angle dysgenesis. These findings suggest that HS is necessary for neural crest cells to form the anterior chamber via TGF-beta2 signaling. Disturbances of HS synthesis might therefore contribute to the pathology of developmental glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichiro Iwao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Masaru Inatani
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Yoshihiro Matsumoto
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Minako Ogata-Iwao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Yuji Takihara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Fumitoshi Irie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Yu Yamaguchi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Satoshi Okinami
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Hidenobu Tanihara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
Burnham Institute for Medical Research, La Jolla, California, USA
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27
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Moose HE, Kelly LE, Nekkalapudi S, El-Hodiri HM. Ocular forkhead transcription factors: seeing eye to eye. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2009; 53:29-36. [PMID: 19123124 DOI: 10.1387/ijdb.072505hm] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Forkhead transcription factors comprise a large family of proteins with diverse functions during development. Recently, there has been accumulating evidence that several members of this family of proteins play an important role in the development of the vertebrate retina. Here, we summarize the cumulative data which demonstrates the integral role that forkhead factors play in cell cycle control of retinal precursors, as well as in cell fate determination, during retinal development. The expression patterns for 14 retinal expressed forkhead transcription factors are presented with an emphasis on comparing the expression profiles across species. The functional data regarding forkhead gene products expressed within the retina are discussed. As presented, these data suggest that forkhead gene products contribute to the complex regulation of proliferation and differentiation of retinal precursors during vertebrate eye development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly E Moose
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
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28
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McMahon C, Gestri G, Wilson SW, Link BA. Lmx1b is essential for survival of periocular mesenchymal cells and influences Fgf-mediated retinal patterning in zebrafish. Dev Biol 2009; 332:287-98. [PMID: 19500562 PMCID: PMC2716413 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2009.05.577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2009] [Revised: 04/27/2009] [Accepted: 05/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
To gain insight into the mechanisms of Lmx1b function during ocular morphogenesis, we have studied the roles of lmx1b.1 and lmx1b.2 during zebrafish eye development. In situ hybridization and characterization of transgenic lines in which GFP is expressed under lmx1b.1 regulatory sequence show that these genes are expressed in periocular tissues and in a pattern conserved with other vertebrates. Anti-sense morpholinos against lmx1b.1 and lmx1b.2 result in defective migration of periocular mesenchymal cells around the eye and lead to apoptosis of these cells. These defects in the periocular mesenchyme are correlated with a failure in fusion of the choroid fissure or in some instances, more severe ventral optic cup morphogenesis phenotypes. Indeed, by blocking the death of the periocular mesenchyme in Lmx1b morphants, optic vesicle morphogenesis is largely restored. Within the retina of lmx1b morphants, Fgf activity is transiently up-regulated and these morphants show defective naso-temporal patterning. Epistasis experiments indicate that the increase in Fgf activity is partially responsible for the ocular anomalies caused by loss of Lmx1b function. Overall, we propose zebrafish lmx1b.1 and lmx1b.2 promote the survival of periocular mesenchymal cells that influence multiple signaling events required for proper ocular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie McMahon
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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Footz TK, Johnson JL, Dubois S, Boivin N, Raymond V, Walter MA. Glaucoma-associated WDR36 variants encode functional defects in a yeast model system. Hum Mol Genet 2009; 18:1276-87. [DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddp027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Li S, Christensen C, Kiselyov VV, Køhler LB, Bock E, Berezin V. Fibroblast growth factor-derived peptides: functional agonists of the fibroblast growth factor receptor. J Neurochem 2008; 104:667-82. [PMID: 18199118 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2007.05070.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
A series of peptides, termed dekafins, were derived from the beta10-beta11 loop regions of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 17. The dekafins share a homologous amino acid sequence similar to a sequence in the first fibronectin type III module of the neural cell adhesion molecule. All dekafins were shown by surface plasmon resonance analysis to bind fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)1-IIIc-Ig2-3 and FGFR2-IIIb-Ig2-3, respectively, with K(d) values of approximately 10(-7) to 10(-8) mol/L. Binding of dekafin1 to FGFR1-IIIc-Ig2-3 was inhibited by a heparin analog, sucrose octasulfate, indicating that heparin sulfate moiety can modulate dekafin binding to FGFRs. Treatment of transcription and mRNA export (TREX) cells permanently expressing Strep-tag-labeled FGFR1-IIIc with dekafins resulted in receptor phosphorylation. FGF1-induced FGFR1-IIIc phosphorylation was inhibited by dekafin1 and 10 in high concentrations, indicating that dekafins are FGFR partial agonists. The dekafins induced neuronal differentiation as reflected by neurite outgrowth from cerebellar granule neurons, an effect that was abolished by SU5402, a specific inhibitor of the FGFR tyrosine kinase, and by inositolhexaphosphate, an extracellularly acting FGFR antagonist. Some, but not all, dekafins were capable of promoting survival of cerebellar granule neurons induced to undergo apoptosis. Thus, the dekafins are functional FGFR agonists with apparent therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhong Li
- Protein Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark, and ENKAM Pharmaceuticals A/S, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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Nakayama Y, Miyake A, Nakagawa Y, Mido T, Yoshikawa M, Konishi M, Itoh N. Fgf19 is required for zebrafish lens and retina development. Dev Biol 2007; 313:752-66. [PMID: 18089288 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2007.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2007] [Revised: 11/06/2007] [Accepted: 11/09/2007] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Fgf signaling plays crucial roles in morphogenesis. Fgf19 is required for zebrafish forebrain development. Here, we examined the roles of Fgf19 in the formation of the lens and retina in zebrafish. Knockdown of Fgf19 caused a size reduction of the lens and the retina, failure of closure of the choroids fissure, and a progressive expansion of the retinal tissue to the midline of the forebrain. Fgf19 expressed in the nasal retina and lens was involved in cell survival but not cell proliferation during embryonic lens and retina development. Fgf19 was essential for the differentiation of lens fiber cells in the lens but not for the neuronal differentiation and lamination in the retina. Loss of nasal fate in the retina caused by the knockdown of Fgf19, expansion of nasal fate in the retina caused by the overexpression of Fgf19 and eye transplantation indicated that Fgf19 in the retina was crucial for the nasal-temporal patterning of the retina that is critical for the guidance of retinal ganglion cell axons. Knockdown of Fgf19 also caused incorrect axon pathfinding. The present findings indicate that Fgf19 positively regulates the patterning and growth of the retina, and the differentiation and growth of the lens in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiaki Nakayama
- Department of Genetic Biochemistry, Kyoto University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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Berry FB, Skarie JM, Mirzayans F, Fortin Y, Hudson TJ, Raymond V, Link BA, Walter MA. FOXC1 is required for cell viability and resistance to oxidative stress in the eye through the transcriptional regulation of FOXO1A. Hum Mol Genet 2007; 17:490-505. [PMID: 17993506 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddm326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the human FOXC1 transcription factor gene underlie Axenfeld-Rieger (AR) syndrome, a disorder characterized by anterior segment malformations in the eye and glaucoma. Through the use of an inducible FOXC1 protein, along with an intermediate protein synthesis blocker, we have determined direct targets of FOXC1 transcriptional regulation. FOXC1 regulates the expression of FOXO1A and binds to a conserved element in the FOXO1A promoter in vivo. The zebrafish foxO1a orthologs exhibit a robust expression pattern in the periocular mesenchyme. Furthermore, FOXO1A expression is reduced in cultured human trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and in the zebrafish developing eye when FOXC1 expression is knocked down by siRNAs and morpholino antisense oliognucleotides, respectively. We also demonstrate that reduced FOXC1 expression increases cell death in cultured TM cells in response to oxidative stress, and increases cell death in the developing zebrafish eye. These studies have uncovered a novel role for FOXC1 as an essential mediator of cellular homeostasis in the eye and indicate that a decreased resistance to oxidative stress may underlie AR-glaucoma pathogenesis. Given that FOXO1A influences cellular homeostasis when positively or negatively regulated; the dysregulation of FOXO1A activities in the eye through FOXC1 loss of function mutations and FOXC1 gene duplications provides an explanation into how seemingly similar human disorders can arise from both increases and decreases in FOXC1 gene dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred B Berry
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Abstract
Anterior segment dysgenesis (ASD) is a failure of the normal development of the tissues of the anterior segment of the eye. It leads to anomalies in the structure of the mature anterior segment, associated with an increased risk of glaucoma and corneal opacity. Several different gene mutations have been identified underlying these anomalies with the majority of ASD genes encoding transcriptional regulators. In this review, the role of the ASD genes, PITX2 and FOXC1, is considered in relation to the embryology of the anterior segment, the biochemical function of these proteins, and their role in development and disease aetiology. The emerging view is that these genes act in concert to specify a population of mesenchymal progenitor cells, mainly of neural crest origin, as they migrate anteriorly around the embryonic optic cup. These same genes then regulate mesenchymal cell differentiation to give rise to distinct anterior segment tissues. Development appears critically sensitive to gene dosage, and variation in the normal level of transcription factor activity causes a range of anterior segment anomalies. Interplay between PITX2 and FOXC1 in the development of different anterior segment tissues may partly explain the phenotypic variability and the genetic heterogeneity characteristic of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Sowden
- Developmental Biology Unit, University College London Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK.
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