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Molin AN, Contentin R, Angelozzi M, Karvande A, Kc R, Haseeb A, Voskamp C, de Charleroy C, Lefebvre V. Skeletal growth is enhanced by a shared role for SOX8 and SOX9 in promoting reserve chondrocyte commitment to columnar proliferation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2316969121. [PMID: 38346197 PMCID: PMC10895259 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316969121] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
SOX8 was linked in a genome-wide association study to human height heritability, but roles in chondrocytes for this close relative of the master chondrogenic transcription factor SOX9 remain unknown. We undertook here to fill this knowledge gap. High-throughput assays demonstrate expression of human SOX8 and mouse Sox8 in growth plate cartilage. In situ assays show that Sox8 is expressed at a similar level as Sox9 in reserve and early columnar chondrocytes and turned off when Sox9 expression peaks in late columnar and prehypertrophic chondrocytes. Sox8-/- mice and Sox8fl/flPrx1Cre and Sox9fl/+Prx1Cre mice (inactivation in limb skeletal cells) have a normal or near normal skeletal size. In contrast, juvenile and adult Sox8fl/flSox9fl/+Prx1Cre compound mutants exhibit a 15 to 20% shortening of long bones. Their growth plate reserve chondrocytes progress slowly toward the columnar stage, as witnessed by a delay in down-regulating Pthlh expression, in packing in columns and in elevating their proliferation rate. SOX8 or SOX9 overexpression in chondrocytes reveals not only that SOX8 can promote growth plate cell proliferation and differentiation, even upon inactivation of endogenous Sox9, but also that it is more efficient than SOX9, possibly due to greater protein stability. Altogether, these findings uncover a major role for SOX8 and SOX9 in promoting skeletal growth by stimulating commitment of growth plate reserve chondrocytes to actively proliferating columnar cells. Further, by showing that SOX8 is more chondrogenic than SOX9, they suggest that SOX8 could be preferred over SOX9 in therapies to promote cartilage formation or regeneration in developmental and degenerative cartilage diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud N. Molin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Romain Contentin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Marco Angelozzi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Anirudha Karvande
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Ranjan Kc
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Chantal Voskamp
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Charles de Charleroy
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Véronique Lefebvre
- Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
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Stévant I, Gonen N, Poulat F. Transposable elements acquire time- and sex-specific transcriptional and epigenetic signatures along mouse fetal gonad development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1327410. [PMID: 38283992 PMCID: PMC10811072 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1327410] [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: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Gonadal sex determination in mice is a complex and dynamic process, which is crucial for the development of functional reproductive organs. The expression of genes involved in this process is regulated by a variety of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Recently, there has been increasing evidence that transposable elements (TEs), which are a class of mobile genetic elements, play a significant role in regulating gene expression during embryogenesis and organ development. In this study, we aimed to investigate the involvement of TEs in the regulation of gene expression during mouse embryonic gonadal development. Through bioinformatics analysis, we aimed to identify and characterize specific TEs that operate as regulatory elements for sex-specific genes, as well as their potential mechanisms of regulation. We identified TE loci expressed in a time- and sex-specific manner along fetal gonad development that correlate positively and negatively with nearby gene expression, suggesting that their expression is integrated to the gonadal regulatory network. Moreover, chromatin accessibility and histone post-transcriptional modification analyses in differentiating supporting cells revealed that TEs are acquiring a sex-specific signature for promoter-, enhancer-, and silencer-like elements, with some of them being proximal to critical sex-determining genes. Altogether, our study introduces TEs as the new potential players in the gene regulatory network that controls gonadal development in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Stévant
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences and the Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UMR9002 University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Nitzan Gonen
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences and the Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Francis Poulat
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UMR9002 University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Vogt EC, Bratland E, Berland S, Berentsen R, Lund A, Björnsdottir S, Husebye E, Øksnes M. Improving diagnostic precision in primary ovarian insufficiency using comprehensive genetic and autoantibody testing. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:177-189. [PMID: 37953503 PMCID: PMC10767963 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead233] [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: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it possible to find the cause of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in more women by extensive screening? SUMMARY ANSWER Adding next generation sequencing techniques including a POI-associated gene panel, extended whole exome sequencing data, as well as specific autoantibody assays to the recommended diagnostic investigations increased the determination of a potential etiological diagnosis of POI from 11% to 41%. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY POI affects ∼1% of women. Clinical presentations and pathogenic mechanisms are heterogeneous and include genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors, but the underlying etiology remains unknown in the majority of cases. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Prospective cross-sectional study of 100 women with newly diagnosed POI of unknown cause consecutively referred to Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway, January 2019 to December 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In addition to standard recommended diagnostic investigations including screening for chromosomal anomalies and premutations in the fragile X mental retardation 1 gene (FMR1) we used whole exome sequencing, including targeted analysis of 103 ovarian-related genes, and assays of autoantibodies against steroid cell antigens. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We identified chromosomal aberrations in 8%, FMR1 premutations in 3%, genetic variants related to POI in 16%, and autoimmune POI in 3%. Furthermore in 11% we identified POI associated genetic Variants of unknown signifcance (VUS). A homozygous pathogenic variant in the ZSWIM7 gene (NM_001042697.2) was found in two women, corroborating this as a novel cause of monogenic POI. No associations between phenotypes and genotypes were found. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Use of candidate genetic and autoimmune markers limit the possibility to discover new markers. To further investigate the genetic variants, family studies would have been useful. We found a relatively high proportion of genetic variants in women from Africa and lack of genetic diversity in the genomic databases can impact diagnostic accuracy. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Since no specific clinical or biochemical markers predicted the underlying cause of POI discussion of which tests should be part of diagnostic screening in clinical practice remains open. New technology has altered the availability and effectiveness of genetic testing, and cost-effectiveness analyses are required to aid sustainable diagnostics. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by grants and fellowships from Stiftelsen Kristian Gerhard Jebsen, the Novonordisk Foundation, the Norwegian Research Council, University of Bergen, and the Regional Health Authorities of Western Norway. The authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04082169.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elinor Chelsom Vogt
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Eirik Bratland
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Siren Berland
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ragnhild Berentsen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Agnethe Lund
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Sigridur Björnsdottir
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eystein Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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Warman-Chardon J, Hartley T, Marshall AE, McBride A, Couse M, Macdonald W, Mann MRW, Bourque PR, Breiner A, Lochmüller H, Woulfe J, Sampaio ML, Melkus G, Brais B, Dyment DA, Boycott KM, Kernohan K. Biallelic SOX8 Variants Associated With Novel Syndrome With Myopathy, Skeletal Deformities, Intellectual Disability, and Ovarian Dysfunction. Neurol Genet 2023; 9:e200088. [PMID: 38235364 PMCID: PMC10508790 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000200088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives The human genome contains ∼20,000 genes, each of which has its own set of complex regulatory systems to govern precise expression in each developmental stage and cell type. Here, we report a female patient with congenital weakness, respiratory failure, skeletal dysplasia, contractures, short stature, intellectual delay, respiratory failure, and amenorrhea who presented to Medical Genetics service with no known cause for her condition. Methods Whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing were conducted, as well as investigational functional studies to assess the effect of SOX8 variant. Results The patient was found to have biallelic SOX8 variants (NM_014587.3:c.422+5G>C; c.583dup p.(His195ProfsTer11)). SOX8 is a transcriptional regulator, which is predicted to be imprinted (expressed from only one parental allele), but this has not yet been confirmed. We provide evidence that while SOX8 was maternally expressed in adult-derived fibroblasts and lymphoblasts, it was biallelically expressed in other cell types and therefore suggest that biallelic variants are associated with this recessive condition. Functionally, we showed that the paternal variant had the capacity to affect mRNA splicing while the maternal variant resulted in low levels of a truncated protein, which showed decreased binding at and altered expression of SOX8 targets. Discussion Our findings associate SOX8 variants with this novel condition, highlight how complex genome regulation can complicate novel disease-gene identification, and provide insight into the molecular pathogenesis of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Warman-Chardon
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Taila Hartley
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Aren Elizabeth Marshall
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Arran McBride
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Madeline Couse
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - William Macdonald
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Mellissa R W Mann
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Pierre R Bourque
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Ari Breiner
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - John Woulfe
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Marcos Loreto Sampaio
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Gerd Melkus
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Bernard Brais
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David A Dyment
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Kym M Boycott
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Kristin Kernohan
- From the Department of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L.), The Ottawa Hospital; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (J.W.-C., P.R.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., G.M.); Faculty of Medicine (J.W.-C., P.R.B., A.B., H.L., J.W., M.L.S., D.A.D., K.M.B.); Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute (J.W.-C., T.H., A.E.M., A.M., H.L., D.A.D., K.M.B., K.K.), University of Ottawa; Hospital for Sick Children (M.C.), Centre for Computational Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Magee-Womens Research Institute (W.M., M.R.W.M.), Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (A.B., J.W.), The Ottawa Hospital; Department of Radiology (M.L.S., G.M.), Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics, University of Ottawa; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery (B.B.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University; and Newborn Screening Ontario (K.K.), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
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5
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Heidari F, Rahbaran M, Mirzaei A, Mozafari Tabatabaei M, Shokrpoor S, Mahjoubi F, Ara MS, Akbarinejad V, Gharagozloo F. The study of a hermaphroditic sheep caused by a mutation in the promoter of SRY gene. Vet Anim Sci 2023; 21:100308. [PMID: 37593675 PMCID: PMC10428133 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2023.100308] [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] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, sex-determining region Y (SRY) gene plays vital role as a transcription factor to regulate the expression of the genes contributing to development of male genitals. Any mutation disrupting expression of SRY gene can cause disorders of sex development (DSDs). In this study, the examination of a hermaphroditic (female-like) Shal sheep which was referred for infertility is described. Initially, the reproductive system of the sheep was histologically and anatomically assessed. Karyotyping was used to determine the real gender of the animal. Sex hormones including progesterone, estradiol, and testosterone were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Eventually, promoter part and SRY gene were sequenced and aligned to detect any potential mutation using NCBI data base. Although anatomical inspection led to identification of uterus, ovary, and enlarged clitoris as well as testes in the sheep, the karyotyping results interestingly revealed that the animal was genetically a male. Although the sheep had both male and female gonads, there were no overt signs of reproductive behavior and gamete production was not observed. Plasma steroid hormone levels were reported to be at basal levels. Additionally, a mutation was detected on the promoter of the SRY gene. In conclusion, the case implies that mutation on the promoter part of SRY gene could disrupt sexual development of the fetus culminating in DSDs in the sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Heidari
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohaddeseh Rahbaran
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asieh Mirzaei
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehran Mozafari Tabatabaei
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Animal Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sara Shokrpoor
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Frouzandeh Mahjoubi
- Department of Medical Genetic, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Shams Ara
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Akbarinejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faramarz Gharagozloo
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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6
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Martinez de Lapiscina I, Kouri C, Aurrekoetxea J, Sanchez M, Naamneh Elzenaty R, Sauter KS, Camats N, Grau G, Rica I, Rodriguez A, Vela A, Cortazar A, Alonso-Cerezo MC, Bahillo P, Bertholt L, Esteva I, Castaño L, Flück CE. Genetic reanalysis of patients with a difference of sex development carrying the NR5A1/SF-1 variant p.Gly146Ala has discovered other likely disease-causing variations. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287515. [PMID: 37432935 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
NR5A1/SF-1 (Steroidogenic factor-1) variants may cause mild to severe differences of sex development (DSD) or may be found in healthy carriers. The NR5A1/SF-1 c.437G>C/p.Gly146Ala variant is common in individuals with a DSD and has been suggested to act as a susceptibility factor for adrenal disease or cryptorchidism. Since the allele frequency is high in the general population, and the functional testing of the p.Gly146Ala variant revealed inconclusive results, the disease-causing effect of this variant has been questioned. However, a role as a disease modifier is still possible given that oligogenic inheritance has been described in patients with NR5A1/SF-1 variants. Therefore, we performed next generation sequencing (NGS) in 13 DSD individuals harboring the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala variant to search for other DSD-causing variants and clarify the function of this variant for the phenotype of the carriers. Panel and whole-exome sequencing was performed, and data were analyzed with a filtering algorithm for detecting variants in NR5A1- and DSD-related genes. The phenotype of the studied individuals ranged from scrotal hypospadias and ambiguous genitalia in 46,XY DSD to opposite sex in both 46,XY and 46,XX. In nine subjects we identified either a clearly pathogenic DSD gene variant (e.g. in AR) or one to four potentially deleterious variants that likely explain the observed phenotype alone (e.g. in FGFR3, CHD7). Our study shows that most individuals carrying the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala variant, harbor at least one other deleterious gene variant which can explain the DSD phenotype. This finding confirms that the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala variant may not contribute to the pathogenesis of DSD and qualifies as a benign polymorphism. Thus, individuals, in whom the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala gene variant has been identified as the underlying genetic cause for their DSD in the past, should be re-evaluated with a NGS method to reveal the real genetic diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idoia Martinez de Lapiscina
- Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research into the Genetics and Control of Diabetes and other Endocrine Disorders, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- Endo-ERN, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chrysanthi Kouri
- Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Josu Aurrekoetxea
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research Group of Medical Oncology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Mirian Sanchez
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research into the Genetics and Control of Diabetes and other Endocrine Disorders, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Rawda Naamneh Elzenaty
- Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Kay-Sara Sauter
- Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Núria Camats
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Growth and Development group, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gema Grau
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research into the Genetics and Control of Diabetes and other Endocrine Disorders, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Endo-ERN, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo Spain
| | - Itxaso Rica
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research into the Genetics and Control of Diabetes and other Endocrine Disorders, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- Endo-ERN, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo Spain
| | - Amaia Rodriguez
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research into the Genetics and Control of Diabetes and other Endocrine Disorders, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo Spain
| | - Amaia Vela
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research into the Genetics and Control of Diabetes and other Endocrine Disorders, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- Endo-ERN, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo Spain
| | - Alicia Cortazar
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
- Endocrinology Department, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | | | - Pilar Bahillo
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, x Clinic University Hospital of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Laura Bertholt
- Pediatric Endocrinology Department, Marques de Valdecilla University Hospital, Santander, Spain
| | - Isabel Esteva
- Endocrinology Section, Gender Identity Unit, Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Luis Castaño
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Research into the Genetics and Control of Diabetes and other Endocrine Disorders, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- Endo-ERN, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Leioa, Spain
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo Spain
| | - Christa E Flück
- Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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7
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Abdullah M, Rehman MSU, Rehman MSNU, AlKahtane AA, Al-Hazani TM, Hassan FU, Rehman SU. Genome-Wide Identification, Evolutionary and Mutational Analysis of the Buffalo Sox Gene Family. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2246. [PMID: 37508024 PMCID: PMC10376873 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sox gene family constitutes transcription factors with a conserved high mobility group box (HMG) that regulate a variety of developmental processes, including sex differentiation, neural, cartilage, and early embryonic development. In this study, we systematically analyzed and characterized the 20 Sox genes from the whole buffalo genome, using comparative genomic and evolutionary analyses. All the buffalo Sox genes were divided into nine sub-groups, and each gene had a specific number of exons and introns, which contributed to different gene structures. Molecular phylogeny revealed more sequence similarity of buffalo Sox genes with those of cattle. Furthermore, evolutionary analysis revealed that the HMG domain remained conserved in the all members of the Sox gene family. Similarly, all the genes are under strong purifying selection pressure; seven segmental duplications occurred from 9.65 to 21.41 million years ago (MYA), and four potential recombination breakpoints were also predicted. Mutational analysis revealed twenty non-synonymous mutations with potential effects on physiological functions, including embryonic development and cell differentiation in the buffalo. The present study provides insights into the genetic architecture of the Sox gene family in buffalo, highlights the significance of mutations, and provides their potential utility for marker-assisted selection for targeted genetic improvement in buffalo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Abdullah
- Institute of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Saif-Ur Rehman
- Institute of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
| | | | - Abdullah A AlKahtane
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tahani Mohamed Al-Hazani
- Biology Department, College of Science and Humanities, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11940, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faiz-Ul Hassan
- Institute of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
- Department of Breeding and Genetics, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur 63100, Pakistan
| | - Saif Ur Rehman
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
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8
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Cao Z, Liu L, Bu Z, Yang Z, Li Y, Li R. Bioinformatics analysis and verification of hub genes in 46,XY, disorders of sexual development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:353-362. [PMID: 36780715 DOI: 10.1071/rd22134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT 46,XY, disorders of sexual development (46,XY, DSD) is a congenital genetic disease whose pathogenesis is complex and clinical manifestations are diverse. The existing molecular research has often focused on single-centre sequencing data, instead of prediction based on big data. AIMS This work aimed to fully understand the pathogenesis of 46,XY, DSD, and summarise the key pathogenic genes. METHODS Firstly, the potential pathogenic genes were identified from public data. Secondly, bioinformatics was used to predict pathogenic genes, including hub gene analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) and function enrichment analysis. Lastly, the genomic DNA from two unrelated families were recruited, next-generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing were performed to verify the hub genes. KEY RESULTS A total of 161 potential pathogenic genes were selected from MGI and PubMed gene sets. The PPI network was built which included 144 nodes and 194 edges. MCODE 4 was selected from PPI which scored the most significant P -value. The top 15 hub genes were ranked and identified by Cytoscape. Furthermore, three variants were found on SRD5A2 gene by genome sequencing, which belonged to the prediction hub genes. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that occurrence of 46,XY, DSD is attributed to a variety of genes. Bioinformatics analysis can help us predict the hub genes and find the most core network MCODE model. IMPLICATIONS Bioinformatic predictions may provide a novel perspective on better understanding the pathogenesis of 46,XY, DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Cao
- Ninth Department, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Liqiang Liu
- Ninth Department, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoyun Bu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Rizhao People's Hospital of Shandong Province, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Second Department, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yangqun Li
- Second Department, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Li
- Ninth Department, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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9
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Functional assessment of DMRT1 variants and their pathogenicity for isolated male infertility. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:219-228. [PMID: 36572623 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the impact of Doublesex and mab-3-related transcription factor 1 (DMRT1) gene variants on the encoded protein's function and the variants' pathogenic relevance for isolated male infertility caused by azoospermia. DESIGN This study established a novel luciferase assay for DMRT1 missense variants using 2 different target promotors and validated the assay by analyzing previously published variants associated with differences in sex development. SETTING University genetics research institute and tertiary referral center for couples' infertility. PATIENT(S) Eleven infertile men with severely impaired spermatogenesis resulting in crypto- or azoospermia and carrying rare heterozygous missense variants in DMRT1 were identified within the Male Reproductive Genomics study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Luciferase assays with human DMRT1 variants to test functional effects on the CYP19A1 and Stra8 target promoters. RESULT(S) We first developed and refined luciferase assays to reliably test the functional impact of DMRT1 missense variants. Next, the assay was validated by analyzing 2 DMRT1 variants associated with differences in sex development, of which c.240G>C p.(Arg80Ser) displayed highly significant effects on both target promoters compared with the wild-type protein (-40% and +100%, respectively) and c.331A>G p.(Arg111Gly) had a significant effect on the Stra8 promoter (-76%). We then systematically characterized 11 DMRT1 variants identified in infertile men. The de novo variant c.344T>A p.(Met115Lys) showed a pronounced loss of function in both DMRT1 target promoters (-100% and -86%, respectively). Variants c.308A>G p.(Lys103Arg) and c.991G>C p.(Asp331His) showed a significant gain of function exclusively for the CYP19A1 promoter (+15% and +19%, respectively). Based on these results, 3 variants were reclassified according to clinical guidelines. CONCLUSION(S) The present study highlights the importance of functionally characterizing DMRT1 variants of uncertain clinical significance. Using luciferase assays for diagnostic purposes enables an improved causal diagnosis for isolated male infertility.
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10
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Functional Assessment of a New PBX1 Variant in a 46,XY Fetus with Severe Syndromic Difference of Sexual Development through CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14020273. [PMID: 36833200 PMCID: PMC9956894 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020273] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual development is a complex process relying on numerous genes. Disruptions in some of these genes are known to cause differences of sexual development (DSDs). Advances in genome sequencing allowed the discovery of new genes implicated in sexual development, such as PBX1. We present here a fetus with a new PBX1 NM_002585.3: c.320G>A,p.(Arg107Gln) variant, presenting with severe DSD along with renal and lung malformations. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing on HEK293T cells, we generated a KD cell line for PBX1. The KD cell line showed reduced proliferation and adhesion properties compared with HEK293T cells. HEK293T and KD cells were then transfected plasmids coding either PBX1 WT or PBX1-320G>A (mutant). WT or mutant PBX1 overexpression rescued cell proliferation in both cell lines. RNA-seq analyses showed less than 30 differentially expressed genes, in ectopic mutant-PBX1-expressing cells compared with WT-PBX1. Among them, U2AF1, encoding a splicing factor subunit, is an interesting candidate. Overall, mutant PBX1 seems to have modest effects compared with WT PBX1 in our model. However, the recurrence of PBX1 Arg107 substitution in patients with closely related phenotypes calls for its impact in human diseases. Further functional studies are needed to explore its effects on cellular metabolism.
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11
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Rjiba K, Mougou-Zerelli S, Hamida IH, Saad G, Khadija B, Jelloul A, Slimani W, Hasni Y, Dimassi S, Khelifa HB, Sallem A, Kammoun M, Abdallah HH, Gribaa M, Bignon-Topalovic J, Chelly S, Khairi H, Bibi M, Kacem M, Saad A, Bashamboo A, McElreavey K. Additional evidence for the role of chromosomal imbalances and SOX8, ZNRF3 and HHAT gene variants in early human testis development. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:2. [PMID: 36631813 PMCID: PMC9990451 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01045-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Forty-six ,XY Differences/Disorders of Sex Development (DSD) are characterized by a broad phenotypic spectrum ranging from typical female to male with undervirilized external genitalia, or more rarely testicular regression with a typical male phenotype. Despite progress in the genetic diagnosis of DSD, most 46,XY DSD cases remain idiopathic. METHODS To determine the genetic causes of 46,XY DSD, we studied 165 patients of Tunisian ancestry, who presented a wide range of DSD phenotypes. Karyotyping, candidate gene sequencing, and whole-exome sequencing (WES) were performed. RESULTS Cytogenetic abnormalities, including a high frequency of sex chromosomal anomalies (85.4%), explained the phenotype in 30.9% (51/165) of the cohort. Sanger sequencing of candidate genes identified a novel pathogenic variant in the SRY gene in a patient with 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis. An exome screen of a sub-group of 44 patients with 46,XY DSD revealed pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in 38.6% (17/44) of patients. CONCLUSION Rare or novel pathogenic variants were identified in the AR, SRD5A2, ZNRF3, SOX8, SOX9 and HHAT genes. Overall our data indicate a genetic diagnosis rate of 41.2% (68/165) in the group of 46,XY DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khouloud Rjiba
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
- Higher Institute of Biotechnology Monastir, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
- Unité de Services Communs en Génétique Humaine, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Soumaya Mougou-Zerelli
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
- Unité de Services Communs en Génétique Humaine, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Imen Hadj Hamida
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Ghada Saad
- Department of Endocrinology, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Bochra Khadija
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
- Higher Institute of Biotechnology Monastir, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
- Unité de Services Communs en Génétique Humaine, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Afef Jelloul
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Wafa Slimani
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
- Unité de Services Communs en Génétique Humaine, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Yosra Hasni
- Department of Endocrinology, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Sarra Dimassi
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
- Unité de Services Communs en Génétique Humaine, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Hela Ben Khelifa
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Amira Sallem
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics and Biology of Reproduction, Fattouma Bourguiba University Teaching Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Molka Kammoun
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Hamza Hadj Abdallah
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Moez Gribaa
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | | | - Sami Chelly
- Private Gynecologist Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Hédi Khairi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Bibi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Maha Kacem
- Department of Endocrinology, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Ali Saad
- Laboratory of Human Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics and Biology of Human Reproduction, Farhat Hached University Teaching Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
- Unité de Services Communs en Génétique Humaine, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Université de Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Kenneth McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
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12
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Wan Y, Yu R, Luo J, Huang P, Zheng X, Sun L, Hu K. A novel DEAH-box helicase 37 mutation associated with differences of sex development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1059159. [PMID: 37065748 PMCID: PMC10098359 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1059159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the genetic etiology of a family pedigree with two patients affected by differences of sex development (DSD). METHODS Assess the clinical characteristics of the patients and achieve exome sequencing results and in vitro functional studies. RESULTS The 15-year-old proband, raised as female, presented with delayed puberty and short stature associated with atypical genitalia. Hormonal profile showed hypergonadotrophic hypogonadism. Imaging studies revealed the absence of a uterus and ovaries. The karyotype confirmed a 46, XY pattern. Her younger brother presented with a micropenis and hypoplastic scrotum with non-palpable testis and hypospadias. Laparoscopic exploration was performed on the younger brother. Streak gonads were found and removed due to the risk of neoplastic transformation. Post-operative histopathology showed the co-existence of Wolffian and Müllerian derivatives. Whole-exome sequencing identified a novel mutation (c.1223C>T, p. Ser408Leu) in the Asp-Glu-Ala-His-box helicase 37 gene, which was found to be deleterious by in silico analysis. Segregation analysis of the variant displayed a sex-limited, autosomal dominant, maternal inheritance pattern. In vitro experiments revealed that the substitution of 408Ser by Leu caused decreased DHX37 expression both at the mRNA and protein levels. Moreover, the β-catenin protein was upregulated, and the p53 protein was unaltered by mutant DHX37. CONCLUSIONS We described a novel mutation (c.1223C>T, p. Ser408Leu) of the DHX37 gene associated with a Chinese pedigree consisting of two 46, XY DSD patients. We speculated that the underlying molecular mechanism might involve upregulation of the β-catenin protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wan
- Department of Endocrinology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Richeng Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Jianhua Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Ping Huang
- Department of Pathology, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Xingju Zheng
- Department of Medical Imaging, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Liqun Sun
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Kui Hu, ; Liqun Sun,
| | - Kui Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Kui Hu, ; Liqun Sun,
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13
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Zidoune H, Ladjouze A, Chellat-Rezgoune D, Boukri A, Dib SA, Nouri N, Tebibel M, Sifi K, Abadi N, Satta D, Benelmadani Y, Bignon-Topalovic J, El-Zaiat-Munsch M, Bashamboo A, McElreavey K. Novel Genomic Variants, Atypical Phenotypes and Evidence of a Digenic/Oligogenic Contribution to Disorders/Differences of Sex Development in a Large North African Cohort. Front Genet 2022; 13:900574. [PMID: 36110220 PMCID: PMC9468775 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.900574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In a majority of individuals with disorders/differences of sex development (DSD) a genetic etiology is often elusive. However, new genes causing DSD are routinely reported and using the unbiased genomic approaches, such as whole exome sequencing (WES) should result in an increased diagnostic yield. Here, we performed WES on a large cohort of 125 individuals all of Algerian origin, who presented with a wide range of DSD phenotypes. The study excluded individuals with congenital adrenal hypoplasia (CAH) or chromosomal DSD. Parental consanguinity was reported in 36% of individuals. The genetic etiology was established in 49.6% (62/125) individuals of the total cohort, which includes 42.2% (35/83) of 46, XY non-syndromic DSD and 69.2% (27/39) of 46, XY syndromic DSD. No pathogenic variants were identified in the 46, XX DSD cases (0/3). Variants in the AR, HSD17B3, NR5A1 and SRD5A2 genes were the most common causes of DSD. Other variants were identified in genes associated with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH), including the CHD7 and PROKR2. Previously unreported pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants (n = 30) involving 25 different genes were identified in 22.4% of the cohort. Remarkably 11.5% of the 46, XY DSD group carried variants classified as pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant in more than one gene known to cause DSD. The data indicates that variants in PLXNA3, a candidate CHH gene, is unlikely to be involved in CHH. The data also suggest that NR2F2 variants may cause 46, XY DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Housna Zidoune
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Paris, France
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Animal Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | - Djalila Chellat-Rezgoune
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Animal Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Asma Boukri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | - Nassim Nouri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Meryem Tebibel
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, CHU Beni Messous, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Karima Sifi
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Noureddine Abadi
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Dalila Satta
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Animal Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | - Yasmina Benelmadani
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Genetics, University Salah Boubnider Constantine 3, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | | | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Ken McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Ken McElreavey,
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14
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Sreenivasan R, Gonen N, Sinclair A. SOX Genes and Their Role in Disorders of Sex Development. Sex Dev 2022; 16:80-91. [PMID: 35760052 DOI: 10.1159/000524453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
SOX genesare master regulatory genes controlling development and are fundamental to the establishment of sex determination in a multitude of organisms. The discovery of the master sex-determining gene SRY in 1990 was pivotal for the understanding of how testis development is initiated in mammals. With this discovery, an entire family of SOX factors were uncovered that play crucial roles in cell fate decisions during development. The importance of SOX genes in human reproductive development is evident from the various disorders of sex development (DSD) upon loss or overexpression of SOX gene function. Here, we review the roles that SOX genes play in gonad development and their involvement in DSD. We start with an overview of sex determination and differentiation, DSDs, and the SOX gene family and function. We then provide detailed information and discussion on SOX genes that have been implicated in DSDs, both at the gene and regulatory level. These include SRY, SOX9, SOX3, SOX8, and SOX10. This review provides insights on the crucial balance of SOX gene expression levels needed for gonad development and maintenance and how changes in these levels can lead to DSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajini Sreenivasan
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nitzan Gonen
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Andrew Sinclair
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Ahmed SF, Alimusina M, Batista RL, Domenice S, Lisboa Gomes N, McGowan R, Patjamontri S, Mendonca BB. The Use of Genetics for Reaching a Diagnosis in XY DSD. Sex Dev 2022; 16:207-224. [DOI: 10.1159/000524881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Reaching a firm diagnosis is vital for the long-term management of a patient with a difference or disorder of sex development (DSD). This is especially the case in XY DSD where the diagnostic yield is particularly low. Molecular genetic technology is playing an increasingly important role in the diagnostic process, and it is highly likely that it will be used more often at an earlier stage in the diagnostic process. In many cases of DSD, the clinical utility of molecular genetics is unequivocally clear, but in many other cases there is a need for careful exploration of the benefit of genetic diagnosis through long-term monitoring of these cases. Furthermore, the incorporation of molecular genetics into the diagnostic process requires a careful appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of the evolving technology, and the interpretation of the results requires a clear understanding of the wide range of conditions that are associated with DSD.
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16
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Fang F, Iaquinta PJ, Xia N, Liu L, Diao L, Reijo Pera RA. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:313-345. [PMID: 35297982 PMCID: PMC9071081 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathways of gametogenesis encompass elaborate cellular specialization accompanied by precise partitioning of the genome content in order to produce fully matured spermatozoa and oocytes. Transcription factors are an important class of molecules that function in gametogenesis to regulate intrinsic gene expression programs, play essential roles in specifying (or determining) germ cell fate and assist in guiding full maturation of germ cells and maintenance of their populations. Moreover, in order to reinforce or redirect cell fate in vitro, it is transcription factors that are most frequently induced, over-expressed or activated. Many reviews have focused on the molecular development and genetics of gametogenesis, in vivo and in vitro, in model organisms and in humans, including several recent comprehensive reviews: here, we focus specifically on the role of transcription factors. Recent advances in stem cell biology and multi-omic studies have enabled deeper investigation into the unique transcriptional mechanisms of human reproductive development. Moreover, as methods continually improve, in vitro differentiation of germ cells can provide the platform for robust gain- and loss-of-function genetic analyses. These analyses are delineating unique and shared human germ cell transcriptional network components that, together with somatic lineage specifiers and pluripotency transcription factors, function in transitions from pluripotent stem cells to gametes. This grand theme review offers additional insight into human infertility and reproductive disorders that are linked predominantly to defects in the transcription factor networks and thus may potentially contribute to the development of novel treatments for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Phillip J Iaquinta
- Division of Research, Economic Development, and Graduate Education, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
| | - Ninuo Xia
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Diao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Renee A Reijo Pera
- Division of Research, Economic Development, and Graduate Education, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
- McLaughlin Research Institute, Great Falls, MT, USA
- Correspondence address. McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23rd Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405, USA. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6487-1329
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17
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Abstract
In 46,XY men, testis is determined by a genetic network(s) that both promotes testis formation and represses ovarian development. Disruption of this process results in a lack of testis-determination and affected individuals present with 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis (GD), a part of the spectrum of Disorders/Differences of Sex Development/Determination (DSD). A minority of all cases of GD are associated with pathogenic variants in key players of testis-determination, SRY, SOX9, MAP3K1 and NR5A1. However, most of the cases remain unexplained. Recently, unbiased exome sequencing approaches have revealed new genes and loci that may cause 46,XY GD. We critically evaluate the evidence to support causality of these factors and describe how functional studies are continuing to improve our understanding of genotype-phenotype relationships in genes that are established causes of GD. As genomic data continues to be generated from DSD cohorts, we propose several recommendations to help interpret the data and establish causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëva Elzaiat
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Ken McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
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18
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McCann AJ, Lou J, Moustaqil M, Graus MS, Blum A, Fontaine F, Liu H, Luu W, Rudolffi-Soto P, Koopman P, Sierecki E, Gambin Y, Meunier FA, Liu Z, Hinde E, Francois M. A dominant-negative SOX18 mutant disrupts multiple regulatory layers essential to transcription factor activity. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:10931-10955. [PMID: 34570228 PMCID: PMC8565327 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Few genetically dominant mutations involved in human disease have been fully explained at the molecular level. In cases where the mutant gene encodes a transcription factor, the dominant-negative mode of action of the mutant protein is particularly poorly understood. Here, we studied the genome-wide mechanism underlying a dominant-negative form of the SOX18 transcription factor (SOX18RaOp) responsible for both the classical mouse mutant Ragged Opossum and the human genetic disorder Hypotrichosis-lymphedema-telangiectasia-renal defect syndrome. Combining three single-molecule imaging assays in living cells together with genomics and proteomics analysis, we found that SOX18RaOp disrupts the system through an accumulation of molecular interferences which impair several functional properties of the wild-type SOX18 protein, including its target gene selection process. The dominant-negative effect is further amplified by poisoning the interactome of its wild-type counterpart, which perturbs regulatory nodes such as SOX7 and MEF2C. Our findings explain in unprecedented detail the multi-layered process that underpins the molecular aetiology of dominant-negative transcription factor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J McCann
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jieqiong Lou
- School of Physics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Mehdi Moustaqil
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science and School of Medical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 1466, Australia
| | - Matthew S Graus
- The David Richmond Laboratory for Cardio-Vascular Development: gene regulation and editing, The Centenary Institute, Newtown, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ailisa Blum
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Frank Fontaine
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Hui Liu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, United States
| | - Winnie Luu
- The David Richmond Laboratory for Cardio-Vascular Development: gene regulation and editing, The Centenary Institute, Newtown, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Paulina Rudolffi-Soto
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science and School of Medical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 1466, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Emma Sierecki
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science and School of Medical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 1466, Australia
| | - Yann Gambin
- EMBL Australia Node in Single Molecule Science and School of Medical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 1466, Australia
| | - Frédéric A Meunier
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Zhe Liu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, United States
| | - Elizabeth Hinde
- School of Physics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Mathias Francois
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.,The David Richmond Laboratory for Cardio-Vascular Development: gene regulation and editing, The Centenary Institute, Newtown, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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19
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Poulat F. Non-Coding Genome, Transcription Factors, and Sex Determination. Sex Dev 2021; 15:295-307. [PMID: 34727549 DOI: 10.1159/000519725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, gonadal sex determination is the process by which transcription factors drive the choice between the testicular and ovarian identity of undifferentiated somatic progenitors through activation of 2 different transcriptional programs. Studies in animal models suggest that sex determination always involves sex-specific transcription factors that activate or repress sex-specific genes. These transcription factors control their target genes by recognizing their regulatory elements in the non-coding genome and their binding motifs within their DNA sequence. In the last 20 years, the development of genomic approaches that allow identifying all the genomic targets of a transcription factor in eukaryotic cells gave the opportunity to globally understand the function of the nuclear proteins that control complex genetic programs. Here, the major transcription factors involved in male and female vertebrate sex determination and the genomic profiling data of mouse gonads that contributed to deciphering their transcriptional regulation role will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Poulat
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UMR9002 University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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20
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Atlas G, Sreenivasan R, Sinclair A. Targeting the Non-Coding Genome for the Diagnosis of Disorders of Sex Development. Sex Dev 2021; 15:392-410. [PMID: 34634785 DOI: 10.1159/000519238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of sex development (DSD) are a complex group of conditions with highly variable clinical phenotypes, most often caused by failure of gonadal development. DSD are estimated to occur in around 1.7% of all live births. Whilst the understanding of genes involved in gonad development has increased exponentially, approximately 50% of patients with a DSD remain without a genetic diagnosis, possibly implicating non-coding genomic regions instead. Here, we review how variants in the non-coding genome of DSD patients can be identified using techniques such as array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) to detect copy number variants (CNVs), and more recently, whole genome sequencing (WGS). Once a CNV in a patient's non-coding genome is identified, putative regulatory elements such as enhancers need to be determined within these vast genomic regions. We will review the available online tools and databases that can be used to refine regions with potential enhancer activity based on chromosomal accessibility, histone modifications, transcription factor binding site analysis, chromatin conformation, and disease association. We will also review the current in vitro and in vivo techniques available to demonstrate the functionality of the identified enhancers. The review concludes with a clinical update on the enhancers linked to DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabby Atlas
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, .,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Rajini Sreenivasan
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Sinclair
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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21
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Hu Y, Wu L, Jiang L, Liang N, Zhu X, He Q, Qin H, Chen W. Notoginsenoside R2 reduces A β25-35-induced neuronal apoptosis and inflammation via miR-27a/SOX8/ β-catenin axis. Hum Exp Toxicol 2021; 40:S347-S358. [PMID: 34533063 DOI: 10.1177/09603271211041996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) has affected numerous elderly individuals worldwide. Panax notoginseng has been shown to ameliorate AD symptoms, and notoginsenoside R2 is a key saponin identified in this plant. Purpose: In the current study, we aimed to explore whether notoginsenoside R2 could improve the prognosis of AD. Methods: Herein, primary rat cortical neurons were isolated and they were treated with amyloid beta-peptide (Aβ) 25-35 oligomers. Cellular apoptosis was examined via flow cytometry and Western blotting. miR-27a and SOX8 mRNA expression levels were quantified by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, the interaction between miR-27a and SOX8 was investigated by utilizing a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Finally, an AD mouse model was established to validate the in vitro findings. Results: Notoginsenoside R2 alleviated Aβ25-35-triggered neuronal apoptosis and inflammation. During this process, miR-27a expression was decreased by notoginsenoside R2, and miR-27a negatively modulated SOX8 expression. Furthermore, activation of SOX8 upregulated β-catenin expression, thus suppressing apoptosis and neuroinflammation. Conclusions: Our animal experiments revealed that notoginsenoside R2 enhanced the cognitive function of AD mice and inhibited neuronal apoptosis. Notoginsenoside R2 ameliorated AD symptoms by reducing neuronal apoptosis and inflammation, thus suggesting a novel direction for AD pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueqiang Hu
- Department of Neurology, 118330The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Lin Wu
- Department of Neurology, 118330The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China.,Scientific Laboratorial Centre, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Lingfei Jiang
- Graduate College of Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Ni Liang
- Department of Neurology, 118330The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaomin Zhu
- Graduate College of Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Qianchao He
- Department of Neurology, 118330The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Hongling Qin
- Department of Neurology, 118330The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Neurology, 118330The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
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22
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Zafar I, Iftikhar R, Ahmad SU, Rather MA. Genome wide identification, phylogeny, and synteny analysis of sox gene family in common carp ( Cyprinus carpio). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 30:e00607. [PMID: 33936955 PMCID: PMC8076717 DOI: 10.1016/j.btre.2021.e00607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
27 SOX (high-mobility group HMG-box) genes were identified in the C. carp genome. SOX genes ranging from 3496 (SOX6) to 924bp (SOX17b) which coded with putative protein series from 307 to 509 amino acids. Gene ontology revealed SOX proteins maximum involvement is in metabolic process 49.796 %. Chromosomal location and synteny analysis display all SOX gene are located on different chromosomes.
Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a commercial fish species valuable for nutritious components and plays a vital role in human healthy nutrition. The SOX (SRY-related genes systematically characterized by a high-mobility group HMG-box) encoded important gene regulatory proteins, a family of transcription factors found in a broad range of animal taxa and extensively known for its contribution in multiple developmental processes including contribution in sex determination across phyla. In our current study, we initially accomplished a genome-wide analysis to report the SOX gene family in common carp fish based on available genomic sequences of zebrafish retrieved from gene repository databases, we focused on the global identification of the Sox gene family in Common carp among wide range of vertebrates and teleosts based on bioinformatics tools and techniques and explore the evolutionary relationships. In our results, a total of 27 SOX (high-mobility group HMG-box) domain genes were identified in the C. carp genome. The full length sequences of SOX genes ranging from 3496 (SOX6) to 924bp (SOX17b) which coded with putative proteins series from 307 to 509 amino acids and all gene having exon number expect SOX9 and SOX13. All the SOX proteins contained at least one conserved DNA-binding HMG-box domain and two (SOX7 and SOX18) were found C terminal. The Gene ontology revealed SOX proteins maximum involvement is in metabolic process 49.796 %, average in biological regulation 45.188 %, biosynthetic process (19.992 %), regulation of cellular process 39.68, 45.508 % organic substance metabolic process, multicellular organismal process 23.23 %,developmental process 21.74 %, system development 16.59 %, gene expression 16.05 % and 14.337 % of RNA metabolic process. Chromosomal location and syntanic analysis show all SOX gene are located on different chromosomes and apparently does not fallow the unique pattern. The maximum linkage of chromosome is (2) on Unplaced Scaffold region. Finally, our results provide important genomic suggestion for upcoming studies of biochemical, physiological, and phylogenetic understanding on SOX genes among teleost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Zafar
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Virtual University Pakistan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Rida Iftikhar
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Virtual University Pakistan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Syed Umair Ahmad
- Department of Bioinformatics, Hazara University, Mansehra, Pakistan
| | - Mohd Ashraf Rather
- Division of Fish Genetics and Biotechnology, Fauclty of Fisheries Rangil, Ganderbal, SKUAST-Kashmir, India
- Corresponding author.
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23
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Albuz B, Ozdemir O, Silan F. The high frequency of chromosomal copy number variations and candidate genes in epilepsy patients. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2021; 202:106487. [PMID: 33484953 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2021.106487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is a chronic brain disease and is estimated to affect more than 50 million people worldwide.Epilepsy is a polygenic and multifactorial disease.Genetic causes play a major role in 40-60 % of all epilepsies.Copy number variations(CNVs) have been reported in approximately 5-12 % of patients with different types of epilepsy.Here we aimed to determine the diagnostic yield of the aCGH in epilepsy and to reveal new candidate genes and CNVs by analyzing aCGH data retrospectively. METHODS The clinical data of 80 patients with the diagnosis of epilepsy were examined retrospectively and the raw data of aCGH of these patients were reanalyzed in the light of current literature. RESULTS Pathogenic/likely pathogenic CNVs were detected in 14 of 80 patients and 12 of these CNVs (15 %) were associated with epilepsy phenotype. In addition, 18 CNVs in 16 different chromosomal loci that were evaluated as the variant of unknown clinical significance(VOUS). In four cases (5%), CNVs associated with epilepsy were less than 100 kb and these accounted for 13.3 % of all epilepsy associated CNVs. CONCLUSION The diagnostic yield of aCGH in epilepsy patients was found to be higher than most studies in the literature. MACROD2,ADGRB3(BAI3),SOX8,HIP1,PARK2 and TAFA2 genes were evaluated as potential epilepsy-related genes and NEDD9,RASAL2 and TNR genes thought to be the candidate genes for epilepsy. Our study showed that the diagnostic efficiency of aCGH in epilepsy is high and with more comprehensive studies, it will contribute to the elucidation of genes involved in genetic etiology in epilepsy patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Albuz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, 17020, Canakkale, Turkey.
| | - Ozturk Ozdemir
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, 17020, Canakkale, Turkey.
| | - Fatma Silan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, 17020, Canakkale, Turkey.
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24
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Bagheri-Fam S, Combes AN, Ling CK, Wilhelm D. Heterozygous deletion of Sox9 in mouse mimics the gonadal sex reversal phenotype associated with campomelic dysplasia in humans. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 29:3781-3792. [PMID: 33305798 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous mutations in the human SOX9 gene cause the skeletal malformation syndrome campomelic dysplasia which in 75% of 46, XY individuals is associated with male-to-female sex reversal. Although studies in homozygous Sox9 knockout mouse models confirmed that SOX9 is critical for testis development, mice heterozygous for the Sox9-null allele were reported to develop normal testes. This led to the belief that the SOX9 dosage requirement for testis differentiation is different between humans, which often require both alleles, and mice, in which one allele is sufficient. However, in prior studies, gonadal phenotypes in heterozygous Sox9 XY mice were assessed only by either gross morphology, histological staining or analyzed on a mixed genetic background. In this study, we conditionally inactivated Sox9 in somatic cells of developing gonads using the Nr5a1-Cre mouse line on a pure C57BL/6 genetic background. Section and whole-mount immunofluorescence for testicular and ovarian markers showed that XY Sox9 heterozygous gonads developed as ovotestes. Quantitative droplet digital PCR confirmed a 50% reduction of Sox9 mRNA as well as partial sex reversal shown by an upregulation of ovarian genes. Our data show that haploinsufficiency of Sox9 can perturb testis development in mice, suggesting that mice may provide a more accurate model of human disorders/differences of sex development than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bagheri-Fam
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Alexander N Combes
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Cheuk K Ling
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Dagmar Wilhelm
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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25
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Tan DS, Holzner M, Weng M, Srivastava Y, Jauch R. SOX17 in cellular reprogramming and cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 67:65-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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26
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Ilaslan E, Markosyan R, Sproll P, Stevenson BJ, Sajek M, Sajek MP, Hayrapetyan H, Sarkisian T, Livshits L, Nef S, Jaruzelska J, Kusz-Zamelczyk K. The FKBP4 Gene, Encoding a Regulator of the Androgen Receptor Signaling Pathway, Is a Novel Candidate Gene for Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218403. [PMID: 33182400 PMCID: PMC7664851 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS), manifesting incomplete virilization in 46,XY individuals, is caused mostly by androgen receptor (AR) gene mutations. Therefore, a search for AR mutations is a routine approach in AIS diagnosis. However, some AIS patients lack AR mutations, which complicates the diagnosis. Here, we describe a patient suffering from partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS) and lacking AR mutations. The whole exome sequencing of the patient and his family members identified a heterozygous FKBP4 gene mutation, c.956T>C (p.Leu319Pro), inherited from the mother. The gene encodes FKBP prolyl isomerase 4, a positive regulator of the AR signaling pathway. This is the first report describing a FKBP4 gene mutation in association with a human disorder of sexual development (DSD). Importantly, the dysfunction of a homologous gene was previously reported in mice, resulting in a phenotype corresponding to PAIS. Moreover, the Leu319Pro amino acid substitution occurred in a highly conserved position of the FKBP4 region, responsible for interaction with other proteins that are crucial for the AR functional heterocomplex formation and therefore the substitution is predicted to cause the disease. We proposed the FKBP4 gene as a candidate AIS gene and suggest screening that gene for the molecular diagnosis of AIS patients lacking AR gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erkut Ilaslan
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (E.I.); (M.P.S.); (J.J.)
| | - Renata Markosyan
- Endocrinology Department, “Muratsan” University Hospital, Endocrinology Clinic, Yerevan State Medical University, 0025 Yerevan, Armenia;
| | - Patrick Sproll
- Division of Endocrinology, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
| | | | - Malgorzata Sajek
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Marcin P. Sajek
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (E.I.); (M.P.S.); (J.J.)
| | - Hasmik Hayrapetyan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Yerevan State Medical University, 0025 Yerevan, Armenia; (H.H.); (T.S.)
- Center of Medical Genetics and Primary Health Care, 375010 Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Tamara Sarkisian
- Department of Medical Genetics, Yerevan State Medical University, 0025 Yerevan, Armenia; (H.H.); (T.S.)
- Center of Medical Genetics and Primary Health Care, 375010 Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Ludmila Livshits
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 03143 Kyiv, Ukraine;
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Genève 4, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (S.N.); (K.K.-Z.)
| | - Jadwiga Jaruzelska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (E.I.); (M.P.S.); (J.J.)
| | - Kamila Kusz-Zamelczyk
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (E.I.); (M.P.S.); (J.J.)
- Correspondence: (S.N.); (K.K.-Z.)
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27
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Acién P, Acién M. Disorders of Sex Development: Classification, Review, and Impact on Fertility. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113555. [PMID: 33158283 PMCID: PMC7694247 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113555] [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: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, the elements included in both sex determination and sex differentiation are briefly analyzed, exposing the pathophysiological and clinical classification of disorders or anomalies of sex development. Anomalies in sex determination without sex ambiguity include gonadal dysgenesis, polysomies, male XX, and Klinefelter syndrome (dysgenesis and polysomies with a female phenotype; and sex reversal and Klinefelter with a male phenotype). Other infertility situations could also be included here as minor degrees of dysgenesis. Anomalies in sex determination with sex ambiguity should (usually) include testicular dysgenesis and ovotesticular disorders. Among the anomalies in sex differentiation, we include: (1) males with androgen deficiency (MAD) that correspond to those individuals whose karyotype and gonads are male (XY and testes), but the phenotype can be female due to different hormonal abnormalities. (2) females with androgen excess (FAE); these patients have ovaries and a 46,XX karyotype, but present varying degrees of external genital virilization as a result of an enzyme abnormality that affects adrenal steroid biosynthesis and leads to congenital adrenal hyperplasia; less frequently, this can be caused by iatrogenia or tumors. (3) Kallman syndrome. All of these anomalies are reviewed and analyzed herein, as well as related fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Acién
- Department of Gynecology, Miguel Hernández University, San Juan Campus, 03550 San Juan, Alicante, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-670-097-518, +34-965-919-385; Fax: +34-965-919-550
| | - Maribel Acién
- Department of Gynecology, Miguel Hernández University, San Juan Campus, 03550 San Juan, Alicante, Spain;
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Juan University Hospital, San Juan Campus, 03550 San Juan, Alicante, Spain
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28
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Jiao SY, Yang YH, Chen SR. Molecular genetics of infertility: loss-of-function mutations in humans and corresponding knockout/mutated mice. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:154-189. [PMID: 33118031 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a major issue in human reproductive health, affecting an estimated 15% of couples worldwide. Infertility can result from disorders of sex development (DSD) or from reproductive endocrine disorders (REDs) with onset in infancy, early childhood or adolescence. Male infertility, accounting for roughly half of all infertility cases, generally manifests as decreased sperm count (azoospermia or oligozoospermia), attenuated sperm motility (asthenozoospermia) or a higher proportion of morphologically abnormal sperm (teratozoospermia). Female infertility can be divided into several classical types, including, but not limited to, oocyte maturation arrest, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest. An estimated one half of infertility cases have a genetic component; however, most genetic causes of human infertility are currently uncharacterized. The advent of high-throughput sequencing technologies has greatly facilitated the identification of infertility-associated gene mutations in patients over the past 20 years. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to conduct a narrative review of the genetic causes of human infertility. Loss-of-function mutation discoveries related to human infertility are summarized and further illustrated in tables. Corresponding knockout/mutated animal models of causative genes for infertility are also introduced. SEARCH METHODS A search of the PubMed database was performed to identify relevant studies published in English. The term 'mutation' was combined with a range of search terms related to the core focus of the review: infertility, DSD, REDs, azoospermia or oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF), primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), acephalic spermatozoa syndrome (ASS), globozoospermia, teratozoospermia, acrosome, oocyte maturation arrest, POI, zona pellucida, fertilization defects and early embryonic arrest. OUTCOMES Our search generated ∼2000 records. Overall, 350 articles were included in the final review. For genetic investigation of human infertility, the traditional candidate gene approach is proceeding slowly, whereas high-throughput sequencing technologies in larger cohorts of individuals is identifying an increasing number of causative genes linked to human infertility. This review provides a wide panel of gene mutations in several typical forms of human infertility, including DSD, REDs, male infertility (oligozoospermia, MMAF, PCD, ASS and globozoospermia) and female infertility (oocyte maturation arrest, POI, fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest). The causative genes, their identified mutations, mutation rate, studied population and their corresponding knockout/mutated mice of non-obstructive azoospermia, MMAF, ASS, globozoospermia, oocyte maturation arrest, POI, fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest are further illustrated by tables. In this review, we suggest that (i) our current knowledge of infertility is largely obtained from knockout mouse models; (ii) larger cohorts of clinical cases with distinct clinical characteristics need to be recruited in future studies; (iii) the whole picture of genetic causes of human infertility relies on both the identification of more mutations for distinct types of infertility and the integration of known mutation information; (iv) knockout/mutated animal models are needed to show whether the phenotypes of genetically altered animals are consistent with findings in human infertile patients carrying a deleterious mutation of the homologous gene; and (v) the molecular mechanisms underlying human infertility caused by pathogenic mutations are largely unclear in most current studies. WILDER IMPLICATIONS It is important to use our current understanding to identify avenues and priorities for future research in the field of genetic causes of infertility as well as to apply mutation knowledge to risk prediction, genetic diagnosis and potential treatment for human infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Ya Jiao
- Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, 100875 Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Hong Yang
- Reproduction Medical Center of West China Second University Hospital, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, 610041 Chengdu, China
| | - Su-Ren Chen
- Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation & Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, 100875 Beijing, China
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29
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Richardson N, Gillot I, Gregoire EP, Youssef SA, de Rooij D, de Bruin A, De Cian MC, Chaboissier MC. Sox8 and Sox9 act redundantly for ovarian-to-testicular fate reprogramming in the absence of R-spondin1 in mouse sex reversals. eLife 2020; 9:53972. [PMID: 32450947 PMCID: PMC7250573 DOI: 10.7554/elife.53972] [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: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, testicular differentiation is initiated by transcription factors SRY and SOX9 in XY gonads, and ovarian differentiation involves R-spondin1 (RSPO1) mediated activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling in XX gonads. Accordingly, the absence of RSPO1/Rspo1 in XX humans and mice leads to testicular differentiation and female-to-male sex reversal in a manner that does not requireSry or Sox9 in mice. Here we show that an alternate testis-differentiating factor exists and that this factor is Sox8. Specifically, genetic ablation of Sox8 and Sox9 prevents ovarian-to-testicular reprogramming observed in XX Rspo1 loss-of-function mice. Consequently, Rspo1 Sox8 Sox9 triple mutant gonads developed as atrophied ovaries. Thus, SOX8 alone can compensate for the loss of SOX9 for Sertoli cell differentiation during female-to-male sex reversal. In humans, mice and other mammals, genetic sex is determined by the combination of sex chromosomes that each individual inherits. Individuals with two X chromosomes (XX) are said to be chromosomally female, while individuals with one X and one Y chromosome (XY) are chromosomally males. One of the major differences between XX and XY individuals is that they have different types of gonads (the organs that make egg cells or sperm). In mice, for example, before males are born, a gene called Sox9 triggers a cascade of events that result in the gonads developing into testes. In females, on the other hand, another gene called Rspo1 stimulates the gonads to develop into ovaries. Loss of Sox9 in XY embryos, or Rspo1 in XX embryos, leads to mice developing physical characteristics that do not match their genetic sex, a phenomenon known as sex reversal. For example, in XX female mice lacking Rspo1, cells in the gonads reprogram into testis cells known as Sertoli cells just before birth and form male structures known as testis cords. The gonads of female mice missing both Sox9 and Rspo1 (referred to as “double mutants”) also develop Sertoli cells and testis cords, suggesting another gene may compensate for the loss of Sox9. Previous studies suggest that a gene known as Sox8, which is closely related to Sox9, may be able to drive sex reversal in female mice. However, it was not clear whether Sox8 is able to stimulate testis to form in female mice in the absence of Sox9. To address this question, Richardson et al. studied mutant female mice lacking Rspo1, Sox8 and Sox9, known as “triple mutants”. Just before birth, the gonads in the triple mutant mice showed some characteristics of sex reversal but lacked the Sertoli cells found in the double mutant mice. After the mice were born, the gonads of the triple mutant mice developed as rudimentary ovaries without testis cords, unlike the more testis-like gonads found in the double mutant mice. The findings of Richardson et al. show that Sox8 is able to trigger sex reversal in female mice in the absence of Rspo1 and Sox9. Differences in sexual development in humans affect the appearance of individuals and often cause infertility. Identifying Sox8 and other similar genes in mice may one day help to diagnose people with such conditions and lead to the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sameh A Youssef
- Department of Pathobiology, Dutch Molecular Pathology Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department Pediatrics, Divisions Molecular Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Dirk de Rooij
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Division of Developmental Biology, Reproductive Biology Group, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Alain de Bruin
- Department of Pathobiology, Dutch Molecular Pathology Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department Pediatrics, Divisions Molecular Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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30
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Jun F, Peng Z, Zhang Y, Shi D. Quantitative Proteomic Profiling Identifies SOX8 as Novel Regulator of Drug Resistance in Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia. Front Oncol 2020; 10:557. [PMID: 32411596 PMCID: PMC7198745 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of drug resistance remains one of the major challenges to current chemotherapeutic regimens in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). Further understanding on the mechanisms of drug resistance would help to develop more effective therapy to treat GTN. Herein, tandem mass tag-based (TMT) quantitative proteomic technique was used to establish drug resistance-related proteomic profiles in chemoresistant GTN cell models (JEG3/MTX, JEG3/VP16, JEG3/5-Fu). In total, we identified 5,704 protein groups, among which 4,997 proteins were quantified in JEG3 and its chemoresistant sublines. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that multiple biological processes/molecular pathways/signaling networks were involved in the regulation of drug resistance in chemoresistant JEG3 sublines. SOX8 was upregulated in all the three chemoresistant sublines, and its function was further investigated. Knockdown of SOX8 significantly reduced cell viability, impaired soft agar clonogenesis, and increased caspase-3 activities after drug treatment in JEG3 chemoresistant sublines. In addition, over-expression of SOX8 promoted cell survival, enhanced soft agar clonogenesis, and attenuated caspase-3 activities after drug treatment in GTN cells. Importantly, SOX8 might be a potential regulator of reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis, as SOX8 regulated the expression of antioxidant enzymes (GPX1, HMOX1) and reduced drug-induced ROS accumulation in GTN cell models. Collectively, SOX8 might promote drug resistance through attenuating the accumulation of ROS induced by chemotherapeutic drugs in GTN cells. Targeting SOX8 might be useful to sensitize GTN cells to chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Jun
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng Peng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Gynecological Oncology Research and Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Gynecological Oncology Research and Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Dazun Shi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Gynecological Oncology Research and Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
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31
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Disorders of Sex Development-Novel Regulators, Impacts on Fertility, and Options for Fertility Preservation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072282. [PMID: 32224856 PMCID: PMC7178030 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders (or differences) of sex development (DSD) are a heterogeneous group of congenital conditions with variations in chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex. Impaired gonadal development is central to the pathogenesis of the majority of DSDs and therefore a clear understanding of gonadal development is essential to comprehend the impacts of these disorders on the individual, including impacts on future fertility. Gonadal development was traditionally considered to involve a primary 'male' pathway leading to testicular development as a result of expression of a small number of key testis-determining genes. However, it is increasingly recognized that there are several gene networks involved in the development of the bipotential gonad towards either a testicular or ovarian fate. This includes genes that act antagonistically to regulate gonadal development. This review will highlight some of the novel regulators of gonadal development and how the identification of these has enhanced understanding of gonadal development and the pathogenesis of DSD. We will also describe the impact of DSDs on fertility and options for fertility preservation in this context.
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32
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Zhang X, Ning Y, Liu W, Zhang T, Qin Y, Zhao S, Cao Y, Zhang H. Variation analysis of SOX8 gene in Chinese men with non-obstructive azoospermia or oligozoospermia. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13531. [PMID: 32048324 DOI: 10.1111/and.13531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sox8, encoding a SRY-related HMG box transcription factor, is essential in Sertoli cells for germ cell differentiation via regulation of integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) as well as Sertoli-germ cell adhesion. Inactivation of Sox8 gene in mice causes postnatal progressive spermatogenic failure, resulting in male infertility. This study aims to investigate whether variants of SOX8 contribute to pathogenesis of idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) or oligozoospermia. A case-control genetic study was conducted in which all exons and exon-intron boundaries of SOX8 gene were screened in 190 NOA and 139 oligozoospermia cases by Sanger sequencing. The detected variants were examined in 284 normospermic controls. Nine known single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of SOX8 gene were identified, and four of them exist simultaneously in oligo/azoospermia patients. A comparison of allele/genotype frequencies of these variants showed no significant difference between oligo/azoospermia cases and controls. The results indicate that deleterious variants in SOX8 gene may not be a common cause for oligo/azoospermia in Chinese men. Considering ethnic diversity, SOX8 could not be ruled out as a candidate gene for male infertility. The role of SOX8-mediated Sertoli cell function and BTB integrity played in the pathogenesis of male infertility needs to be further explored in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yunna Ning
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wen Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Taijian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yongzhi Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Haobo Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Grinspon RP, Bergadá I, Rey RA. Male Hypogonadism and Disorders of Sex Development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:211. [PMID: 32351452 PMCID: PMC7174651 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of Sex Development (DSD) are congenital anomalies in which there is a discordance between chromosomal, genetic, gonadal, and/or internal/external genital sex. In XY individuals, the process of fetal sex differentiation can be disrupted at the stage of gonadal differentiation, resulting in gonadal dysgenesis, a form of early fetal-onset primary hypogonadism characterized by insufficient androgen and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) production, which leads to the development of ambiguous or female genitalia. The process of sex differentiation can also be disrupted at the stage of genital differentiation, due to isolated defects in androgen or AMH secretion, but not both. These are forms of fetal-onset hypogonadism with dissociated gonadal dysfunction. In this review, we present a perspective on impaired testicular endocrine function, i.e., fetal-onset male hypogonadism, resulting in incomplete virilization at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina P. Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET—FEI—División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Romina P. Grinspon
| | - Ignacio Bergadá
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET—FEI—División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo A. Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET—FEI—División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Netherton J, Ogle R, Hetherington L, Velkov T, Rose R, Baker M. DNA variants are an unlikely explanation for the changing quality of spermatozoa within the same individual. HUM FERTIL 2019; 24:376-388. [PMID: 31642381 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2019.1679397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
It has recently been suggested that the human sperm genome is highly unstable, which may be a reasonable explanation as to why men, even fertile men, produce defective spermatozoa. Furthermore, an unstable genome may also explain why the semen profile of the same man changes from one ejaculate to the next. As such, we took multiple ejaculates (between 3 and 6) from 7 individuals over a 6-month period and isolated sperm through density gradients. We then compared the DNA of: (i) good and poor-quality spermatozoa within the same ejaculate; and (ii) from multiple ejaculates from the same individual. Our results suggest that on a global level, DNA present within spermatozoa is actually quite stable and similar between both good and poor sperm. This is important information for the assisted reproductive community when it comes to sperm selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Netherton
- Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Rachel Ogle
- Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Louise Hetherington
- Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Tony Velkov
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne , Victoria , Australia
| | - Ryan Rose
- Fertility SA, St. Andrews Hospital , Adelaide , South Australia , Australia.,Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide , Adelaide , South Australia , Australia
| | - Mark Baker
- Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
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Yatsenko SA, Rajkovic A. Genetics of human female infertility†. Biol Reprod 2019; 101:549-566. [PMID: 31077289 PMCID: PMC8127036 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
About 10% of women of reproductive age are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. Female factors alone account for at least 35% of all infertility cases and comprise a wide range of causes affecting ovarian development, maturation of oocytes, and fertilization competence, as well as the potential of a fertilized egg for preimplantation development, implantation, and fetal growth. Genetic abnormalities leading to infertility in females comprise large chromosome abnormalities, submicroscopic chromosome deletion and duplications, and DNA sequence variations in the genes that control numerous biological processes implicated in oogenesis, maintenance of ovarian reserve, hormonal signaling, and anatomical and functional development of female reproductive organs. Despite the great number of genes implicated in reproductive physiology by the study of animal models, only a subset of these genes is associated with human infertility. In this review, we mainly focus on genetic alterations identified in humans and summarize recent knowledge on the molecular pathways of oocyte development and maturation, the crucial role of maternal-effect factors during embryogenesis, and genetic conditions associated with ovarian dysgenesis, primary ovarian insufficiency, early embryonic lethality, and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana A Yatsenko
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Aleksandar Rajkovic
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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36
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Haseeb A, Lefebvre V. The SOXE transcription factors-SOX8, SOX9 and SOX10-share a bi-partite transactivation mechanism. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:6917-6931. [PMID: 31194875 PMCID: PMC6649842 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
SOX8, SOX9 and SOX10 compose the SOXE transcription factor group. They govern cell fate and differentiation in many lineages, and mutations impairing their activity cause severe diseases, including campomelic dysplasia (SOX9), sex determination disorders (SOX8 and SOX9) and Waardenburg-Shah syndrome (SOX10). However, incomplete knowledge of their modes of action limits disease understanding. We here uncover that the proteins share a bipartite transactivation mechanism, whereby a transactivation domain in the middle of the proteins (TAM) synergizes with a C-terminal one (TAC). TAM comprises amphipathic α-helices predicted to form a protein-binding pocket and overlapping with minimal transactivation motifs (9-aa-TAD) described in many transcription factors. One 9-aa-TAD sequence includes an evolutionarily conserved and functionally required EΦ[D/E]QYΦ motif. SOXF proteins (SOX7, SOX17 and SOX18) contain an identical motif, suggesting evolution from a common ancestor already harboring this motif, whereas TAC and other transactivating SOX proteins feature only remotely related motifs. Missense variants in this SOXE/SOXF-specific motif are rare in control individuals, but have been detected in cancers, supporting its importance in development and physiology. By deepening understanding of mechanisms underlying the central transactivation function of SOXE proteins, these findings should help further decipher molecular networks essential for development and health and dysregulated in diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Haseeb
- Department of Surgery/Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Véronique Lefebvre
- Department of Surgery/Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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37
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The importance of the multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification in the identification of a novel two-exon deletion of the NR5A1 gene in a patient with 46,XY differences of sex development. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:5595-5601. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04980-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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38
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Angelozzi M, Lefebvre V. SOXopathies: Growing Family of Developmental Disorders Due to SOX Mutations. Trends Genet 2019; 35:658-671. [PMID: 31288943 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The SRY-related (SOX) transcription factor family pivotally contributes to determining cell fate and identity in many lineages. Since the original discovery that SRY deletions cause sex reversal, mutations in half of the 20 human SOX genes have been associated with rare congenital disorders, henceforward called SOXopathies. Mutations are generally de novo, heterozygous, and inactivating, revealing gene haploinsufficiency, but other types, including duplications, have been reported too. Missense variants primarily target the HMG domain, the SOX hallmark that mediates DNA binding and bending, nuclear trafficking, and protein-protein interactions. We here review key clinical and molecular features of SOXopathies and discuss the prospect that the disease family likely involves more SOX genes and larger clinical and genetic spectrums than currently appreciated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Angelozzi
- Department of Surgery/Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Véronique Lefebvre
- Department of Surgery/Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Macdonald J, Kilcoyne KR, Sharpe RM, Kavanagh Á, Anderson RA, Brown P, Smith LB, Jørgensen A, Mitchell RT. DMRT1 repression using a novel approach to genetic manipulation induces testicular dysgenesis in human fetal gonads. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2107-2121. [PMID: 30272154 PMCID: PMC6195803 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does loss of DMRT1 in human fetal testis alter testicular development and result in testicular dysgenesis? SUMMARY ANSWER DMRT1 repression in human fetal testis alters the expression of key testicular and ovarian determining genes, and leads to focal testicular dysgenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) is associated with common testicular disorders in young men, but its etiology is unknown. DMRT1 has been shown to play a role in the regulation of sex differentiation in the vertebrate gonad. Downregulation of DMRT1 in male mice results in trans-differentiation of Sertoli cells into granulosa (FOXL2+) cells resulting in an ovarian gonadal phenotype. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION To determine the effect of DMRT1 repression on human fetal testes, we developed a novel system for genetic manipulation, which utilizes a Lentivral delivered miRNA during short-term in vitro culture (2 weeks). A long-term (4–6 weeks) ex vivo xenograft model was used to determine the subsequent effects of DMRT1 repression on testicular development and maintenance. We included first and second-trimester testis tissue (8–20 weeks gestation; n = 12) in the study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human fetal testes were cultured in vitro and exposed to either of two DMRT1 miRNAs (miR536, miR641), or to scrambled control miRNA, for 24 h. This was followed by a further 14 days of culture (n = 3–4), or xenografting (n = 5) into immunocompromised mice for 4–6 weeks. Tissues were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and quantitative RT-PCR. Endpoints included histological evaluation of seminiferous cord integrity, mRNA expression of testicular, ovarian and germ cell genes, and assessment of cell number and protein expression for proliferation, apoptosis and pluripotency factors. Statistical analysis was performed using a linear mixed effect model. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE DMRT1 repression (miR536/miR641) resulted in a loss of DMRT1 protein expression in a sub-population of Sertoli cells of first trimester (8–11 weeks gestation) human fetal testis; however, this did not affect the completion of seminiferous cord formation or morphological appearance. In second-trimester testis (12–20 weeks gestation), DMRT1 repression (miR536/miR641) resulted in disruption of seminiferous cords with absence of DMRT1 protein expression in Sertoli (SOX9+) cells. No differences in proliferation (Ki67+) were observed and apoptotic cells (CC3+) were rare. Expression of the Sertoli cell associated gene, SOX8, was significantly reduced (miR536, 34% reduction, P = 0.031; miR641 36% reduction, P = 0.026), whilst SOX9 expression was unaffected. Changes in expression of AMH (miR536, 100% increase, P = 0.033), CYP26B1 (miR641, 38% reduction, P = 0.05) and PTGDS (miR642, 30% reduction, P = 0.0076) were also observed. Amongst granulosa cell associated genes, there was a significant downregulation in R-spondin 1 expression (miR536, 76% reduction, P < 0.0001; miR641, 49% reduction, P = 0.046); however, there were no changes in expression of the granulosa cell marker, FOXL2. Analysis of germ cell associated genes demonstrated a significant increase in the expression of the pluripotency gene OCT4 (miR536, 233%, P < 0.001). We used the xenograft system to investigate the longer-term effects of seminiferous cord disruption via DMRT1 repression. As was evident in vitro for second-trimester samples, DMRT1 repression resulted in focal testicular dysgenesis similar to that described in adults with TDS. These dysgenetic areas were devoid of germ cells, whilst expression of FOXL2 within the dysgenetic areas, indicated trans-differentiation from a male (Sertoli cell) to female (granulosa cell) phenotype. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Human fetal testis tissue is a limited resource; however, we were able to demonstrate significant effects of DMRT1 repression on the expression of germ and somatic cell genes, in addition to the induction of focal testicular dysgenesis, using these limited samples. In vitro culture may not reflect all aspects of human fetal testis development and function; however, the concurrent use of the xenograft model which represents a more physiological system supports the validity of the in vitro findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings have important implications for understanding the role of DMRT1 in human testis development and in the origin of testicular dysgenesis. In addition, we provide validation of a novel system that can be used to determine the effects of repression of genes that have been implicated in gonadal development and associated human reproductive disorders. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project was funded by a Wellcome Trust Intermediate Clinical Fellowship (Grant No. 098522) awarded to RTM. LBS was supported by MRC Programme Grant MR/N002970/1. RAA was supported by MRC Programme Grant G1100357/1. RMS was supported by MRC Programme Grant G33253. This work was undertaken in the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health which is funded by the MRC Centre grant MR/N022556/1. The funding bodies had no input into the conduct of the research or the production of this manuscript. The authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joni Macdonald
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Karen R Kilcoyne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Richard M Sharpe
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Áine Kavanagh
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Pamela Brown
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.,School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.,Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children, 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
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40
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Baetens D, Verdin H, De Baere E, Cools M. Update on the genetics of differences of sex development (DSD). Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 33:101271. [PMID: 31005504 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Human gonadal development is regulated by the temporospatial expression of many different genes with critical dosage effects. Subsequent sex steroid hormone production requires several consecutive enzymatic steps and functional hormone receptors. Disruption of this complex process can result in atypical sex development and lead to conditions referred to as differences (disorders) of sex development (DSD). With the advent of massively parallel sequencing technologies, in silico protein modeling and innovative tools for the generation of animal models, new genes and pathways have been implicated in the pathogenesis of these conditions. Here, we provide an overview of the currently known DSD genes and mechanisms involved in the process of gonadal and phenotypical sex development and highlight phenotypic findings that may trigger further diagnostic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorien Baetens
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hannah Verdin
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elfride De Baere
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Martine Cools
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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Roumaud P, Martin LJ. Transcriptomic analysis of overexpressed SOX4 and SOX8 in TM4 Sertoli cells with emphasis on cell-to-cell interactions. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 512:678-683. [PMID: 30922563 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.03.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Sertoli cells are localized in seminiferous tubules within the testis. They are the first testicular cells to differentiate during male sex determination. In the adult, Sertoli cells provide nutrients to germ cells, control factors for spermatogenesis and protection by establishing the blood-testis barrier (BTB). This BTB is composed of tight junctions, basal ectoplasmic specializations, adherent junctions and gap junctions. The transcription factor SOX8 is necessary for the maintenance of spermatogenesis during adult life whereas SOX4 is involved in developmental processes. These factors are highly expressed in Sertoli cells. However, few of their target genes in adult Sertoli cells are known. Hence, we compared the transcriptomes of TM4 Sertoli cells overexpressing or not SOX4 or SOX8 using RNA-Seq followed by pathways and networks analyses. We found that SOX4 overexpression leads to downregulated genes enriched for cell junction organization and positive regulation of cell-to-cell adhesion. Upregulated genes in response to SOX8 overexpression were enriched for Sertoli cell development and differentiation. However, downregulated genes were enriched for cell-to-cell adhesion, tight junction interactions, gap junctions' assembly, as well as extracellular matrix binding. Hence, our results confirm that SOX8 is an important mediator of Sertoli cell maturation, whereas SOX4 and SOX8 influence gene expression related to regulation of blood-testis barrier assembly. In addition, TM4 cells can be considered as a useful model to better define the regulatory mechanisms of SOX4 or SOX8 on gene transcription in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Roumaud
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Luc J Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New-Brunswick, E1A 3E9, Canada.
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42
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Miura K, Harikae K, Nakaguchi M, Imaimatsu K, Hiramatsu R, Tomita A, Hirate Y, Kanai-Azuma M, Kurohmaru M, Ogura A, Kanai Y. Molecular and genetic characterization of partial masculinization in embryonic ovaries grafted into male nude mice. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212367. [PMID: 30840652 PMCID: PMC6402656 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In most of mammalian embryos, gonadal sex differentiation occurs inside the maternal uterus before birth. In several fetal ovarian grafting experiments using male host mice, an experimental switch from the maternal intrauterine to male-host environment gradually induces partial masculinization of the grafted ovaries even under the wild-type genotype. However, either host-derived factors causing or molecular basis underlying this masculinization of the fetal ovaries are not clear. Here, we demonstrate that ectopic appearance of SOX9-positive Sertoli cell-like cells in grafted ovaries was mediated by the testosterone derived from the male host. Neither Sox8 nor Amh activity in the ovarian tissues is essential for such ectopic appearance of SOX9-positive cells. The transcriptome analyses of the grafted ovaries during this masculinization process showed early downregulation of pro-ovarian genes such as Irx3, Nr0b1/Dax1, Emx2, and Fez1/Lzts1 by days 7-10 post-transplantation, and subsequent upregulation of several pro-testis genes, such as Bhlhe40, Egr1/2, Nr4a2, and Zc3h12c by day 20, leading to a partial sex reversal with altered expression profiles in one-third of the total numbers of the sex-dimorphic pre-granulosa and Sertoli cell-specific genes at 12.5 dpc. Our data imply that the paternal testosterone exposure is partially responsible for the sex-reversal expression profiles of certain pro-ovarian and pro-testis genes in the fetal ovaries in a temporally dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kento Miura
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- RIKEN BioResovurce Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kyoko Harikae
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mayu Nakaguchi
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenya Imaimatsu
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryuji Hiramatsu
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayako Tomita
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Hirate
- Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masami Kanai-Azuma
- Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masamichi Kurohmaru
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuo Ogura
- RIKEN BioResovurce Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research, Wako, Saitama, Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshiakira Kanai
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Kremen J, Chan YM. Genetic evaluation of disorders of sex development: current practice and novel gene discovery. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2019; 26:54-59. [PMID: 30507699 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW As the pace of genetic discovery accelerates, genetic sequencing is increasingly applied to rare disease such as DSD (differences or disorders of sex development,) which has led to an increase in the number of novel variant-containing candidate genes identified. In this review, we will discuss several candidate genes which have recently been proposed as causative of DSD, as well as novel work in understanding gene regulation in the mouse gonad that may have implications for the DSD phenotype in humans. RECENT FINDINGS We performed a comprehensive search of PubMed through August 2018 to identify relevant peer-reviewed publications from 2017 to 2018 on DSD genetics. SUMMARY Seminal work has identified a critical gonadal enhancer of Sox9 in a mouse model. This enhancer is located in a region which had previously been implicated in both XX and XY DSD, though the specific enhancer and its role in Sox9 gene expression had not been defined. Novel candidate genes in XY gonadal dysgenesis (SOX8, ESR2) and XX ovotesticular DSD (NR2F2) have been described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Kremen
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Audí L, Ahmed SF, Krone N, Cools M, McElreavey K, Holterhus PM, Greenfield A, Bashamboo A, Hiort O, Wudy SA, McGowan R. GENETICS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Approaches to molecular genetic diagnosis in the management of differences/disorders of sex development (DSD): position paper of EU COST Action BM 1303 ‘DSDnet’. Eur J Endocrinol 2018; 179:R197-R206. [PMID: 30299888 PMCID: PMC6182188 DOI: 10.1530/eje-18-0256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The differential diagnosis of differences or disorders of sex development (DSD) belongs to the most complex fields in medicine. It requires a multidisciplinary team conducting a synoptic and complementary approach consisting of thorough clinical, hormonal and genetic workups. This position paper of EU COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) Action BM1303 ‘DSDnet’ was written by leading experts in the field and focuses on current best practice in genetic diagnosis in DSD patients. Ascertainment of the karyotpye defines one of the three major diagnostic DSD subclasses and is therefore the mandatory initial step. Subsequently, further analyses comprise molecular studies of monogenic DSD causes or analysis of copy number variations (CNV) or both. Panels of candidate genes provide rapid and reliable results. Whole exome and genome sequencing (WES and WGS) represent valuable methodological developments that are currently in the transition from basic science to clinical routine service in the field of DSD. However, in addition to covering known DSD candidate genes, WES and WGS help to identify novel genetic causes for DSD. Diagnostic interpretation must be performed with utmost caution and needs careful scientific validation in each DSD case.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Audí
- Growth and Development Research Unit, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence should be addressed to L Audí;
| | - S F Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - N Krone
- Academic Unit of Child Health, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Western Bank, Sheffield, UK
| | - M Cools
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Paediatrics and Internal Medicine Research Unit, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - P M Holterhus
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein and Christian Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - A Greenfield
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - A Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - O Hiort
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - S A Wudy
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - R McGowan
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Laboratories Building, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
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De Lorenzi L, Arrighi S, Rossi E, Grignani P, Previderè C, Bonacina S, Cremonesi F, Parma P. XY (SRY-positive) Ovarian Disorder of Sex Development in Cattle. Sex Dev 2018; 12:196-203. [PMID: 29902792 DOI: 10.1159/000489869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the sex of the embryo depends on the SRY gene. In the presence of at least one intact and functional copy of this genetic factor (XY embryo) undifferentiated gonads will develop as testicles that subsequently determine the male phenotype. When this factor is not present, i.e., in subjects with 2 X chromosomes, an alternative pathway induces the development of ovaries, hence a female phenotype. In this case study, we describe a female cattle affected by a disorder of sex development (DSD). The subject, despite having a chromosomal XY constitution, did not develop testicles but ovaries, although they were underdeveloped. Moreover, genetic analysis highlighted the presence of the SRY gene with a normal coding region in both blood- and tissue-derived DNA. A chimeric condition was excluded in blood by sexing more than 350 cells and by allele profile investigation of 18 microsatellite markers. Array CGH analysis showed the presence of a not yet described 99-kb duplication (BTA18), but its relationship with the phenotype remains to be demonstrated. Gonadal histology demonstrated paired ovaries: the left one containing a large corpus luteum and the right one showing an underdeveloped aspect and very few early follicles. To our knowledge, we describe the first case of XY (SRY+) DSD in cattle with a normal SRY gene coding sequence.
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