1
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Müller GA, Müller TD. Transfer of membrane(s) matter(s)-non-genetic inheritance of (metabolic) phenotypes? Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1347397. [PMID: 38516184 PMCID: PMC10955475 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1347397] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins (GPI-APs) are anchored at the outer phospholipid layer of eukaryotic plasma membranes exclusively by a glycolipid. GPI-APs are not only released into extracellular compartments by lipolytic cleavage. In addition, certain GPI-APs with the glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor including their fatty acids remaining coupled to the carboxy-terminus of their protein components are also detectable in body fluids, in response to certain stimuli, such as oxidative stress, radicals or high-fat diet. As a consequence, the fatty acid moieties of GPI-APs must be shielded from access of the aqueous environment by incorporation into membranes of extracellular vesicles or into micelle-like complexes together with (lyso)phospholipids and cholesterol. The GPI-APs released from somatic cells and tissues are transferred via those complexes or EVs to somatic as well as pluripotent stem cells with metabolic consequences, such as upregulation of glycogen and lipid synthesis. From these and additional findings, the following hypotheses are developed: i) Transfer of GPI-APs via EVs or micelle-like complexes leads to the induction of new phenotypes in the daughter cells or zygotes, which are presumably not restricted to metabolism. ii) The membrane topographies transferred by the concerted action of GPI-APs and interacting components are replicated by self-organization and self-templation and remain accessible to structural changes by environmental factors. iii) Transfer from mother cells and gametes to their daughter cells and zygotes, respectively, is not restricted to DNA and genes, but also encompasses non-genetic matter, such as GPI-APs and specific membrane constituents. iv) The intergenerational transfer of membrane matter between mammalian organisms is understood as an epigenetic mechanism for phenotypic plasticity, which does not rely on modifications of DNA and histones, but is regarded as molecular mechanism for the inheritance of acquired traits, such as complex metabolic diseases. v) The missing interest in research of non-genetic matter of inheritance, which may be interpreted in the sense of Darwin's "Gemmules" or Galton's "Stirps", should be addressed in future investigations of the philosophy of science and sociology of media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Günter A. Müller
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity (IDO), Helmholtz Diabetes Center (HDC) at Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Oberschleissheim, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Oberschleissheim, Germany
- Department of Media Studies, Media, Culture and Society, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, University Paderborn, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Timo D. Müller
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity (IDO), Helmholtz Diabetes Center (HDC) at Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Oberschleissheim, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Oberschleissheim, Germany
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2
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Polykretis P, Donzelli A, Lindsay JC, Wiseman D, Kyriakopoulos AM, Mörz M, Bellavite P, Fukushima M, Seneff S, McCullough PA. Autoimmune inflammatory reactions triggered by the COVID-19 genetic vaccines in terminally differentiated tissues. Autoimmunity 2023; 56:2259123. [PMID: 37710966 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2023.2259123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
As a result of the spread of SARS-CoV-2, a global pandemic was declared. Indiscriminate COVID-19 vaccination has been extended to include age groups and naturally immune people with minimal danger of suffering serious complications due to COVID-19. Solid immuno-histopathological evidence demonstrates that the COVID-19 genetic vaccines can display a wide distribution within the body, affecting tissues that are terminally differentiated and far away from the injection site. These include the heart and brain, which may incur in situ production of spike protein eliciting a strong autoimmunological inflammatory response. Due to the fact that every human cell which synthesises non-self antigens, inevitably becomes the target of the immune system, and since the human body is not a strictly compartmentalised system, accurate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies are needed in order to determine precisely which tissues can be harmed. Therefore, our article aims to draw the attention of the scientific and regulatory communities to the critical need for biodistribution studies for the genetic vaccines against COVID-19, as well as for rational harm-benefit assessments by age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagis Polykretis
- "Allineare Sanità e Salute" Foundation, Milano, Italy
- Independent Medical Scientific Commission (CMSi), Milano, Italy
| | - Alberto Donzelli
- "Allineare Sanità e Salute" Foundation, Milano, Italy
- Independent Medical Scientific Commission (CMSi), Milano, Italy
| | - Janci C Lindsay
- Toxicology & Molecular Biology, Toxicology Support Services, LLC, Sealy, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Stephanie Seneff
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
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3
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Mahmoudian RA, Farshchian M, Golyan FF, Mahmoudian P, Alasti A, Moghimi V, Maftooh M, Khazaei M, Hassanian SM, Ferns GA, Mahaki H, Shahidsales S, Avan A. Preclinical tumor mouse models for studying esophageal cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 189:104068. [PMID: 37468084 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Preclinical models are extensively employed in cancer research because they can be manipulated in terms of their environment, genome, molecular biology, organ systems, and physical activity to mimic human behavior and conditions. The progress made in in vivo cancer research has resulted in significant advancements, enabling the creation of spontaneous, metastatic, and humanized mouse models. Most recently, the remarkable and extensive developments in genetic engineering, particularly the utilization of CRISPR/Cas9, transposable elements, epigenome modifications, and liquid biopsies, have further facilitated the design and development of numerous mouse models for studying cancer. In this review, we have elucidated the production and usage of current mouse models, such as xenografts, chemical-induced models, and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs), for studying esophageal cancer. Additionally, we have briefly discussed various gene-editing tools that could potentially be employed in the future to create mouse models specifically for esophageal cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reihaneh Alsadat Mahmoudian
- Cancer Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Moein Farshchian
- Division of Oncology, Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Fatemeh Fardi Golyan
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Parvaneh Mahmoudian
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Alasti
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Vahid Moghimi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Mina Maftooh
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Department of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex BN1 9PH, UK
| | - Hanie Mahaki
- Vascular & Endovascular Surgery Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; College of Medicine, University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa, Karbala, Iraq; Faculty of Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
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4
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Spadafora C. The epigenetic basis of evolution. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 178:57-69. [PMID: 36720315 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
An increasing body of data are revealing key roles of epigenetics in evolutionary processes. The scope of this manuscript is to assemble in a coherent frame experimental evidence supporting a role of epigenetic factors and networks, active during embryogenesis, in orchestrating variation-inducing phenomena underlying evolution, seen as a global process. This process unfolds over two crucial levels: i) a flow of RNA-based information - predominantly small regulatory RNAs released from somatic cells exposed to environmental stimuli - taken up by spermatozoa and delivered to oocytes at fertilization and ii) the highly permissive and variation-prone environments offered by zygotes and totipotent early embryos. Totipotent embryos provide a variety of biological tools favouring the emergence of evolutionarily significant phenotypic novelties driven by RNA information. Under this light, neither random genomic mutations, nor the sieving role of natural selection are required, as the sperm-delivered RNA cargo conveys specific information and acts as "phenotypic-inducer" of defined environmentally acquired traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Spadafora
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy.
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5
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Patlar B. On the Role of Seminal Fluid Protein and Nucleic Acid Content in Paternal Epigenetic Inheritance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314533. [PMID: 36498858 PMCID: PMC9739459 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The evidence supports the occurrence of environmentally-induced paternal epigenetic inheritance that shapes the offspring phenotype in the absence of direct or indirect paternal care and clearly demonstrates that sperm epigenetics is one of the major actors mediating these paternal effects. However, in most animals, while sperm makes up only a small portion of the seminal fluid, males also have a complex mixture of proteins, peptides, different types of small noncoding RNAs, and cell-free DNA fragments in their ejaculate. These seminal fluid contents (Sfcs) are in close contact with the reproductive cells, tissues, organs, and other molecules of both males and females during reproduction. Moreover, their production and use are adjusted in response to environmental conditions, making them potential markers of environmentally- and developmentally-induced paternal effects on the next generation(s). Although there is some intriguing evidence for Sfc-mediated paternal effects, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly defined. In this review, the current evidence regarding the links between seminal fluid and environmental paternal effects and the potential pathways and mechanisms that seminal fluid may follow in mediating paternal epigenetic inheritance are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahar Patlar
- Animal Ecology, Department of Zoology, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06099 Halle (Saale), Germany
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6
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Wang L, Li J. 'Artificial spermatid'-mediated genome editing†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:538-548. [PMID: 31077288 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For years, extensive efforts have been made to use mammalian sperm as the mediator to generate genetically modified animals; however, the strategy of sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT) is unable to produce stable and diversified modifications in descendants. Recently, haploid embryonic stem cells (haESCs) have been successfully derived from haploid embryos carrying the genome of highly specialized gametes, and can stably maintain haploidy (through periodic cell sorting based on DNA quantity) and both self-renewal and pluripotency in long-term cell culture. In particular, haESCs derived from androgenetic haploid blastocysts (AG-haESCs), carrying only the sperm genome, can support the generation of live mice (semi-cloned, SC mice) through oocyte injection. Remarkably, after removal of the imprinted control regions H19-DMR (differentially methylated region of DNA) and IG-DMR in AG-haESCs, the double knockout (DKO)-AG-haESCs can stably produce SC animals with high efficiency, and so can serve as a sperm equivalent. Importantly, DKO-AG-haESCs can be used for multiple rounds of gene modifications in vitro, followed by efficient generation of live and fertile mice with the expected genetic traits. Thus, DKO-AG-haESCs (referred to as 'artificial spermatids') combed with CRISPR-Cas technology can be used as the genetically tractable fertilization agent, to efficiently create genetically modified offspring, and is a versatile genetic tool for in vivo analyses of gene function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingbo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinsong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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7
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Steele EJ, Gorczynski RM, Lindley RA, Liu Y, Temple R, Tokoro G, Wickramasinghe DT, Wickramasinghe NC. The efficient Lamarckian spread of life in the cosmos. ADVANCES IN GENETICS 2020; 106:21-43. [PMID: 33081924 PMCID: PMC7340397 DOI: 10.1016/bs.adgen.2020.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this Chapter we discuss the various mechanisms that are available for the possible transfer of cosmic microbial living systems from one cosmic habitat to another. With the 100 or so habitable planets that are now known to exist in our galaxy alone transfers of cometary dust carrying life including fragments of icy planetoids/asteroids would be expected to occur on a routine basis. It is thus easy to view the galaxy as a single connected "biosphere" of which our planet Earth is a minor component. The Hoyle-Wickramasinghe Panspermia paradigm provides a cogent biological rationale for the actual widespread existence of Lamarckian modes of inheritance in terrestrial systems (which we review here). Thus the Panspermia paradigm provides the raison d'etre for Lamarckian Inheritance. Under a terrestrially confined neoDarwinian viewpoint such an association may have been thought spurious in the past. Our aim here is to outline the main evidence for rapid terrestrial-based Lamarckian-based evolutionary hypermutation processes dependent on reverse transcription-coupled mechanisms among others. Such rapid adaptation mechanisms would be consistent with the effective cosmic spread of living systems. For example, a viable, or cryo-preserved, living system traveling through space in a protective matrix will of necessity need to adapt rapidly and proliferate on landing in a new cosmic niche. Lamarckian mechanisms thus come to the fore and supersede the slow (blind and random) genetic processes expected under neoDarwinian Earth centred theories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Steele
- C.Y.O'Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Piara Waters, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Melville Analytics Pty Ltd, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | | | - Robyn A Lindley
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; GMDx Group Ltd, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Yongsheng Liu
- Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Modern Biological Breeding, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Robert Temple
- The History of Chinese Science and Culture Foundation, Conway Hall, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gensuke Tokoro
- Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astroeconomics, Gifu, Japan
| | - Dayal T Wickramasinghe
- College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - N Chandra Wickramasinghe
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astroeconomics, Gifu, Japan; University of Buckingham, Buckingham, United Kingdom; National Institute of Fundamental Studies, Kandy, Sri Lanka.
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8
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Spadafora C. Transgenerational epigenetic reprogramming of early embryos: a mechanistic model. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2020; 6:dvaa009. [PMID: 32704385 PMCID: PMC7368376 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvaa009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The notion that epigenetic information can be transmitted across generations is supported by mounting waves of data, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, a model is proposed which combines different lines of experimental evidence. First, it has been shown that somatic tissues exposed to stressing stimuli release circulating RNA-containing extracellular vesicles; second, epididymal spermatozoa can take up, internalize and deliver the RNA-containing extracellular vesicles to oocytes at fertilization; third, early embryos can process RNA-based information. These elements constitute the building blocks upon which the model is built. The model proposes that a continuous stream of epigenetic information flows from parental somatic tissues to the developing embryos. The flow can cross the Weismann barrier, is mediated by circulating vesicles and epididymal spermatozoa, and has the potential to generate epigenetic traits that are then stably acquired in the offspring. In a broader perspective, it emerges that a natural 'assembly line' operates continuously, aiming at passing the parental epigenetic blueprint in growing embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Spadafora
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council (CNR), 100 Via del Fosso del Cavaliere, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence address. Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council (CNR), 100 Via del Fosso del Cavaliere, 00133 Rome, Italy. Tel: +39 0649917536; Fax: +39 064457529; E-mail: ;
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9
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Sciamanna I, Serafino A, Shapiro JA, Spadafora C. The active role of spermatozoa in transgenerational inheritance. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 286:20191263. [PMID: 31455195 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.1263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The active uptake of exogenous nucleic acids by spermatozoa of virtually all animal species is a well-established phenomenon whose significance has long been underappreciated. A growing body of published data demonstrates that extracellular vesicles released from mammalian somatic tissues pass an RNA-based flow of information to epididymal spermatozoa, thereby crossing the Weismann barrier. That information is delivered to oocytes at fertilization and affects the fate of the developing progeny. We propose that this essential process of epigenetic transmission depends upon the documented ability of epididymal spermatozoa to bind and internalize foreign nucleic acids in their nuclei. In other words, spermatozoa are not passive vectors of exogenous molecules but rather active participants in essential somatic communication across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annalucia Serafino
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Resarch Council of Italy (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - James A Shapiro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Corrado Spadafora
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Resarch Council of Italy (CNR), Rome, Italy
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10
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Steele EJ, Gorczynski RM, Lindley RA, Liu Y, Temple R, Tokoro G, Wickramasinghe DT, Wickramasinghe NC. Lamarck and Panspermia - On the Efficient Spread of Living Systems Throughout the Cosmos. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 149:10-32. [PMID: 31445944 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2019.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We review the main lines of evidence (molecular, cellular and whole organism) published since the 1970s demonstrating Lamarckian Inheritance in animals, plants and microorganisms viz. the transgenerational inheritance of environmentally-induced acquired characteristics. The studies in animals demonstrate the genetic permeability of the soma-germline Weismann Barrier. The widespread nature of environmentally-directed inheritance phenomena reviewed here contradicts a key pillar of neo-Darwinism which affirms the rigidity of the Weismann Barrier. These developments suggest that neo-Darwinian evolutionary theory is in need of significant revision. We argue that Lamarckian inheritance strategies involving environmentally-induced rapid directional genetic adaptations make biological sense in the context of cosmic Panspermia allowing the efficient spread of living systems and genetic innovation throughout the Universe. The Hoyle-Wickramasinghe Panspermia paradigm also developed since the 1970s, unlike strictly geocentric neo-Darwinism provides a cogent biological rationale for the actual widespread existence of Lamarckian modes of inheritance - it provides its raison d'être. Under a terrestrially confined neo-Darwinian viewpoint such an association may have been thought spurious in the past. Our aim is to outline the conceptual links between rapid Lamarckian-based evolutionary hypermutation processes dependent on reverse transcription-coupled mechanisms among others and the effective cosmic spread of living systems. For example, a viable, or cryo-preserved, living system travelling through space in a protective matrix will need of necessity to rapidly adapt and proliferate on landing in a new cosmic niche. Lamarckian mechanisms thus come to the fore and supersede the slow (blind and random) genetic processes expected under a traditional neo-Darwinian evolutionary paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Steele
- C.Y.O'Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Piara Waters, Perth, 6112, WA, Australia; Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Melville Analytics Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Vic, Australia.
| | | | - Robyn A Lindley
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences, University of MelbourneVic, Australia; GMDx Group Ltd, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Yongsheng Liu
- Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Modern Biological Breeding, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Robert Temple
- The History of Chinese Science and Culture Foundation, Conway Hall, London, UK
| | - Gensuke Tokoro
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astrobiology, Gifu, Japan
| | - Dayal T Wickramasinghe
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - N Chandra Wickramasinghe
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astrobiology, Gifu, Japan; Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
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11
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Abstract
Having been debated for many years, the presence and role of spermatozoal RNAs is resolving, and their contribution to development is now appreciated. Data from different species continue show that sperm contain a complex suite of coding and noncoding RNAs that play a role in an individual's life course. Mature sperm RNAs provide a retrospective of spermatogenesis, with their presence and abundance reflecting sperm maturation, fertility potential, and the paternal contribution to the developmental path the offspring may follow.Sperm RNAs delivered upon fertilization provide some of the initial contacts with the oocyte, directly confront the maternal with the paternal contribution as a prelude to genome consolidation. Following syngamy, early embryo development may in part be modulated by paternal RNAs that can include epidydimal passengers. This provides a direct path to relay an experience and then initiate a paternal response to the environment to the oocyte and beyond. Their epigenetic impact is likely felt prior to embryonic genome activation when the population of sperm delivered transcripts markedly changes. Here, we review the insights gained from sperm RNAs over the years, the subtypes, and the caveats of the RNAs described. We discuss the role of sperm RNAs in fertilization and embryo development, and their possible mechanism(s) influencing offspring phenotype. Approaches to meet the future challenges as the study of sperm RNAs continues, include, elucidating the potential mechanisms underlying how paternal allostatic load, the constant adaptation of health to external conditions, may be relayed by sperm RNAs to affect future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gòdia
- Animal Genomics Group, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Cerdanyola del Vallès (Barcelona), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Grace Swanson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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12
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He W, Chen J, Gao S. Mammalian haploid stem cells: establishment, engineering and applications. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:2349-2367. [PMID: 30888429 PMCID: PMC11105600 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03069-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Haploid embryonic stem cells (haESCs) contain only one set of genomes inherited from the sperm or egg and are termed AG- or PG-haESCs, respectively. Mammalian haESCs show genome-wide hypomethylation and dysregulated imprinting, whereas they can sustain genome integrity during derivation and long-term propagation. In addition, haESCs exhibit similar pluripotency to traditional diploid ESCs but are unique because they function as gametes and have been used to produce semi-cloned animals. More strikingly, unisexual reproduction has been achieved in mice by using haESCs. In combination with a gene editing or screening system, haESCs represent a powerful tool for studies of underlying gene functions and explorations of mechanisms of genetic and epigenetic regulation not only at the cellular level in vitro but also at the animal level in vivo. More importantly, genetically edited AG-haESC lines may further serve as an ideal candidate for the establishment of a sperm bank, which is a highly cost-effective approach, and a wide range of engineered semi-cloned mice have been produced. Here, we review the historical development, characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of haESCs. Additionally, we present an in-depth discussion of the recent advances in haESCs and their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenteng He
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Jiayu Chen
- Clinical and Translation Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Shaorong Gao
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China.
- Clinical and Translation Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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13
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Zhang S, Lei X, Huo P, Liu Q, Guan X, Jiang J, Shi D, Lu F. The effects of IAM38 blocking or CD4 blocking on the binding of exogenous DNA in rabbit sperm. Mol Biol Rep 2018; 46:251-259. [PMID: 30415444 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-018-4466-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The binding of exogenous DNA to sperm is a key process for sperm-mediated gene transfer; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms have yet to be elucidated. In the present study, we aimed to identify the DNA binding proteins (DBPs) in rabbit sperm and to gain further understanding of the molecular mechanism of sperm and exogenous DNA interaction. Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was used for separating free sperm proteins and complexes of DNA fragment/sperm proteins. A distinct band was found after Coomassie blue staining, and seven potential proteins were identified by mass spectrometry analysis. An analysis of the physical/chemical properties of the seven proteins revealed that the sperm inner acrosomal membrane protein IAM38 (IAM38) matched the features of the DBPs. Western blotting analysis showed that the IAM38 and CD4 were present in the sperm but not in the seminal plasma. Blocking of the IAM38 impaired the DNA-binding capacity of the sperm. Blocking the CD4 decreased the DNA-uptake capacity of the sperm but did not influence the DNA-binding capacity of the sperm. Moreover, the EGFP-positive embryos and EGFP-positive blastocysts were also decreased after IAM38 blocking or CD4 blocking in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, our results imply that foreign DNA first binds to the transmembrane IAM38 of the sperm plasma membrane and then forms the complex of DNA/IAM38/CD4 with CD4 to complete the transportation of exogenous DNA into the nucleus of sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Zhang
- Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530005, China.,Department of Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Xiaocan Lei
- Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Peng Huo
- School of Public Health of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Qingyou Liu
- Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Xiaomei Guan
- Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Jianrong Jiang
- Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530005, China.
| | - Fenghua Lu
- Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530005, China.
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Abstract
Darwin clearly described certain anomalous phenomena, including what he referred to as "the direct action of the male element on the female form" and what we now call xenia and telegony, bud variation (mutation), reversion or atavism, and the inheritance and non-inheritance of mutilation. Some phenomena, particularly xenia, telegony and the inheritance of mutilation, were considered as doubtful phenomena by such authorities as Weismann and Morgan. Over the past 150 year, however, there has been increasing evidence for xenia, which is of great interest and importance in physiological research and plant production. The discoveries of cell-free fetal DNA, sperm RNAs, penetration of sperm into the somatic tissues of the female reproductive tract and the incorporation of exogenous DNA into somatic cells indicate that molecular mechanisms exist for telegony, one of the most controversial issues. Darwin's Pangenesis is the only theory that explains all the different types of phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Liu
- Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Modern Biological Breeding, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China; Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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15
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Zhong Y, Liu DL, Ahmed MMM, Li PH, Zhou XL, Xie QD, Xu XQ, Han TT, Hou ZW, Huang JH, Xu L, Huang TH. Transcription and regulation of hepatitis B virus genes in host sperm cells. Asian J Androl 2018; 20:284-289. [PMID: 29111540 PMCID: PMC5952484 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_46_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate whether transcription of hepatitis B virus (HBV) gene occurs in human sperm, total RNA was extracted from sperm of patients with chronic HBV infection (test-1), from donor sperm transfected with a plasmid containing the full-length HBV genome (test-2), and from nontransfected donor sperm (control), used as the template for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Positive bands for HBV DNA were observed in the test groups but not in the control. Next, to identify the role of host genes in regulating viral gene transcription in sperm, total RNA was extracted from 2-cell embryos derived from hamster oocytes fertilized in vitro by HBV-transfected (test) or nontransfected (control) human sperm and successively subjected to SMART-PCR, suppression subtractive hybridization, T/A cloning, bacterial amplification, microarray hybridization, sequencing and the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) search to isolate differentially expressed genes. Twenty-nine sequences showing significant identity to five human gene families were identified, with chorionic somatomammotropin hormone 2 (CSH2), eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4 gamma 2 (EIF4G2), pterin-4 alpha-carbinolamine dehydratase 2 (PCBD2), pregnancy-specific beta-1-glycoprotein 4 (PSG4) and titin (TTN) selected to represent target genes. Using real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR), when CSH2 and PCBD2 (or EIF4G2, PSG4 and TTN) were silenced by RNA interference, transcriptional levels of HBV s and x genes significantly decreased (or increased) (P < 0.05). Silencing of a control gene in sperm did not significantly change transcription of HBV s and x genes (P > 0.05). This study provides the first experimental evidence that transcription of HBV genes occurs in human sperm and is regulated by host genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhong
- Department of Genetics, Chengdu Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Dong-Ling Liu
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Mohamed Morsi M Ahmed
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Peng-Hao Li
- Department of Genetics, Chengdu Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Zhou
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Qing-Dong Xie
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Xu
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Ting-Ting Han
- Department of Genetics, Chengdu Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Zhi-Wei Hou
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Ji-Hua Huang
- Department of Genetics, Chengdu Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Lan Xu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Tian-Hua Huang
- Department of Genetics, Chengdu Jinxin Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Chengdu 610066, China
- Correspondence: Dr. TH Huang ()
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16
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Sekhavati MH, Hosseini SM, Tahmoorespur M, Ghaedi K, Jafarpour F, Hajian M, Dormiani K, Nasr-Esfahani MH. PhiC31-based Site-Specific Transgenesis System for Production of Transgenic Bovine Embryos by Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection. CELL JOURNAL 2018; 20:98-107. [PMID: 29308625 PMCID: PMC5759686 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2018.4385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Streptomyces phage phiC31 integrase offers a sequence-specific method of transgenesis with a robust long-term gene expression. PhiC31 has been successfully developed in a variety of tissues and organs for purpose of in vivo gene therapy. The objective of the present experiment was to evaluate PhiC31-based site-specific transgenesis system for production of transgenic bovine embryos by somatic cell nuclear transfer and intracytoplasmic sperm injection. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this experimental study, the application of phiC31 integrase system was evaluated for generating transgenic bovine embryos by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and sperm mediated gene transfer (SMGT) approaches. RESULTS PhiC31 integrase mRNA and protein was produced in vitro and their functionality was confirmed. Seven phiC31 recognizable bovine pseudo attachment sites of phage (attP) sites were considered for evaluation of site specific recombination. The accuracy of these sites was validated in phic31 targeted bovine fibroblasts using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. The efficiency and site-specificity of phiC31 integrase system was also confirmed in generated transgenic bovine embryo which successfully obtained using SCNT and SMGT technique. CONCLUSIONS The results showed that both SMGT and SCNT-derived embryos were enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) positive and phiC31 integrase could recombine the reporter gene in a site specific manner. These results demonstrate that attP site can be used as a proper location to conduct site directed transgenesis in both mammalian cells and embryos in phiC31 integrase system when even combinaed to SCNT and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) method.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sayed Morteza Hosseini
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Kamran Ghaedi
- Department of Biology, Facualty of Sciences, Uneversity of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Cellular Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farnoosh Jafarpour
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Hajian
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Kyanoosh Dormiani
- Department of Cellular Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossain Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.
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17
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Selvaraju S, Parthipan S, Somashekar L, Binsila BK, Kolte AP, Arangasamy A, Ravindra JP, Krawetz SA. Current status of sperm functional genomics and its diagnostic potential of fertility in bovine (Bos taurus). Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1444816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sellappan Selvaraju
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Sivashanmugam Parthipan
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Lakshminarayana Somashekar
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - B. Krishnan Binsila
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Atul P. Kolte
- Omics Laboratory, Animal Nutrition Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Arunachalam Arangasamy
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Janivara Parameshwaraiah Ravindra
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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18
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Steele EJ, Al-Mufti S, Augustyn KA, Chandrajith R, Coghlan JP, Coulson SG, Ghosh S, Gillman M, Gorczynski RM, Klyce B, Louis G, Mahanama K, Oliver KR, Padron J, Qu J, Schuster JA, Smith WE, Snyder DP, Steele JA, Stewart BJ, Temple R, Tokoro G, Tout CA, Unzicker A, Wainwright M, Wallis J, Wallis DH, Wallis MK, Wetherall J, Wickramasinghe DT, Wickramasinghe JT, Wickramasinghe NC, Liu Y. Cause of Cambrian Explosion - Terrestrial or Cosmic? PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 136:3-23. [PMID: 29544820 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We review the salient evidence consistent with or predicted by the Hoyle-Wickramasinghe (H-W) thesis of Cometary (Cosmic) Biology. Much of this physical and biological evidence is multifactorial. One particular focus are the recent studies which date the emergence of the complex retroviruses of vertebrate lines at or just before the Cambrian Explosion of ∼500 Ma. Such viruses are known to be plausibly associated with major evolutionary genomic processes. We believe this coincidence is not fortuitous but is consistent with a key prediction of H-W theory whereby major extinction-diversification evolutionary boundaries coincide with virus-bearing cometary-bolide bombardment events. A second focus is the remarkable evolution of intelligent complexity (Cephalopods) culminating in the emergence of the Octopus. A third focus concerns the micro-organism fossil evidence contained within meteorites as well as the detection in the upper atmosphere of apparent incoming life-bearing particles from space. In our view the totality of the multifactorial data and critical analyses assembled by Fred Hoyle, Chandra Wickramasinghe and their many colleagues since the 1960s leads to a very plausible conclusion - life may have been seeded here on Earth by life-bearing comets as soon as conditions on Earth allowed it to flourish (about or just before 4.1 Billion years ago); and living organisms such as space-resistant and space-hardy bacteria, viruses, more complex eukaryotic cells, fertilised ova and seeds have been continuously delivered ever since to Earth so being one important driver of further terrestrial evolution which has resulted in considerable genetic diversity and which has led to the emergence of mankind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Steele
- CY O'Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Piara Waters, WA, Australia; Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka.
| | - Shirwan Al-Mufti
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
| | - Kenneth A Augustyn
- Center for the Physics of Living Organisms, Department of Physics, Michigan Technological University, Michigan, United States
| | | | - John P Coghlan
- University of Melbourne, Office of the Dean, Faculty Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, 3rd Level, Alan Gilbert Building, Australia
| | - S G Coulson
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
| | - Sudipto Ghosh
- Metallurgical & Materials Engineering IIT, Kanpur, India
| | - Mark Gillman
- South African Brain Research Institute, 6 Campbell Street, Waverly, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Reginald M Gorczynski
- University Toronto Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Brig Klyce
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
| | - Godfrey Louis
- Department of Physics, Cochin University of Science and Technology Cochin, India
| | | | - Keith R Oliver
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Julio Padron
- Studio Eutropi, Clinical Pathology and Nutrition, Via Pompei 46, Ardea, 00040, Rome, Italy
| | - Jiangwen Qu
- Department of Infectious Disease Control, Tianjin Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
| | - John A Schuster
- School of History and Philosophy of Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - W E Smith
- Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astrobiology, Gifu, Japan
| | - Duane P Snyder
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
| | - Julian A Steele
- Centre for Surface Chemistry and Catalysis, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Brent J Stewart
- CY O'Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Piara Waters, WA, Australia
| | - Robert Temple
- The History of Chinese Culture Foundation, Conway Hall, London, UK
| | - Gensuke Tokoro
- Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astrobiology, Gifu, Japan
| | - Christopher A Tout
- Institute of Astronomy, The Observatories, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0HA, UK
| | | | - Milton Wainwright
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK; Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka
| | - Jamie Wallis
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
| | - Daryl H Wallis
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
| | - Max K Wallis
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK
| | - John Wetherall
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Perth, Curtin University, WA, Australia
| | - D T Wickramasinghe
- College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | | | - N Chandra Wickramasinghe
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK; Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Institute for the Study of Panspermia and Astrobiology, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yongsheng Liu
- Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Modern Biological Breeding, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China; Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
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19
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The "evolutionary field" hypothesis. Non-Mendelian transgenerational inheritance mediates diversification and evolution. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 134:27-37. [PMID: 29223657 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics is increasingly regarded as a potential contributing factor to evolution. Building on apparently unrelated results, here I propose that RNA-containing nanovesicles, predominantly small regulatory RNAs, are released from somatic tissues in the bloodstream, cross the Weismann barrier, reach the epididymis, and are eventually taken up by spermatozoa; henceforth the information is delivered to oocytes at fertilization. In the model, a LINE-1-encoded reverse transcriptase activity, present in spermatozoa and early embryos, plays a key role in amplifying and propagating these RNAs as extrachromosomal structures. It may be conceived that, over generations, the cumulative effects of sperm-delivered RNAs would cross a critical threshold and overcome the buffering capacity of embryos. As a whole, the process can promote the generation of an information-containing platform that drives the reshaping of the embryonic epigenetic landscape with the potential to generate ontogenic changes and redirect the evolutionary trajectory. Over time, evolutionary significant, stably acquired variations could be generated through the process. The interplay between these elements defines the concept of "evolutionary field", a self-consistent, comprehensive information-containing platform and a source of discontinuous evolutionary novelty.
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20
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Spadafora C. Sperm-Mediated Transgenerational Inheritance. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2401. [PMID: 29255455 PMCID: PMC5722983 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa of virtually all species can spontaneously take up exogenous DNA or RNA molecules and internalize them into nuclei. In this article I review evidence for a key role of a reverse transcriptase (RT) activity, encoded by LINE-1 retrotransposons, in the fate of the internalized nucleic acid molecules and their implication in transgenerational inheritance. LINE-1-derived RT, present in sperm heads, can reverse-transcribe the internalized molecules in cDNA copies: exogenous RNA is reverse-transcribed in a one-step reaction, whereas DNA is first transcribed into RNA and subsequently reverse-transcribed. Both RNA and cDNA molecules can be delivered from sperm cells to oocytes at fertilization, further propagated throughout embryogenesis and inherited in a non-Mendelian fashion in tissues of adult animals. The reverse-transcribed sequences are extrachromosomal, low-abundance, and mosaic distributed in tissues of adult individuals, where they are variably expressed. These “retrogenes” are transcriptionally competent and induce novel phenotypic traits in animals. Growing evidence indicate that cancer tissues produce DNA- and RNA-containing exosomes. We recently found that these exosomes are released in the bloodstream and eventually taken up into epididymal spermatozoa, consistent with the emerging view that a transgenerational flow of extrachromosomal RNA connects soma to germline and, further, to next generation embryos. Spermatozoa play a crucial bridging role in this process: they act as collectors of somatic information and as delivering vectors to the next generation. On the whole, this phenomenon is compatible with a Lamarckian-type view and closely resembles Darwinian pangenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Spadafora
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council of Italy, Rome, Italy
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21
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Miller WB. Biological information systems: Evolution as cognition-based information management. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 134:1-26. [PMID: 29175233 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
An alternative biological synthesis is presented that conceptualizes evolutionary biology as an epiphenomenon of integrated self-referential information management. Since all biological information has inherent ambiguity, the systematic assessment of information is required by living organisms to maintain self-identity and homeostatic equipoise in confrontation with environmental challenges. Through their self-referential attachment to information space, cells are the cornerstone of biological action. That individualized assessment of information space permits self-referential, self-organizing niche construction. That deployment of information and its subsequent selection enacted the dominant stable unicellular informational architectures whose biological expressions are the prokaryotic, archaeal, and eukaryotic unicellular forms. Multicellularity represents the collective appraisal of equivocal environmental information through a shared information space. This concerted action can be viewed as systematized information management to improve information quality for the maintenance of preferred homeostatic boundaries among the varied participants. When reiterated in successive scales, this same collaborative exchange of information yields macroscopic organisms as obligatory multicellular holobionts. Cognition-Based Evolution (CBE) upholds that assessment of information precedes biological action, and the deployment of information through integrative self-referential niche construction and natural cellular engineering antecedes selection. Therefore, evolutionary biology can be framed as a complex reciprocating interactome that consists of the assessment, communication, deployment and management of information by self-referential organisms at multiple scales in continuous confrontation with environmental stresses.
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22
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Spadafora C. Soma to germline inheritance of extrachromosomal genetic information via a LINE-1 reverse transcriptase-based mechanism. Bioessays 2016; 38:726-33. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201500197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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23
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Steele EJ. Commentary: Past, present, and future of epigenetics applied to livestock breeding - Hard versus Soft Lamarckian Inheritance Mechanisms. Front Genet 2016; 7:29. [PMID: 26941780 PMCID: PMC4763540 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2016.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Steele
- CY O'Connor ERADE Village Foundation Piara Waters, WA, Australia
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24
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Sciamanna I, De Luca C, Spadafora C. The Reverse Transcriptase Encoded by LINE-1 Retrotransposons in the Genesis, Progression, and Therapy of Cancer. Front Chem 2016; 4:6. [PMID: 26904537 PMCID: PMC4749692 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2016.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In higher eukaryotic genomes, Long Interspersed Nuclear Element 1 (LINE-1) retrotransposons represent a large family of repeated genomic elements. They transpose using a reverse transcriptase (RT), which they encode as part of the ORF2p product. RT inhibition in cancer cells, either via RNA interference-dependent silencing of active LINE-1 elements, or using RT inhibitory drugs, reduces cancer cell proliferation, promotes their differentiation and antagonizes tumor progression in animal models. Indeed, the non-nucleoside RT inhibitor efavirenz has recently been tested in a phase II clinical trial with metastatic prostate cancer patients. An in-depth analysis of ORF2p in a mouse model of breast cancer showed ORF2p to be precociously expressed in precancerous lesions and highly abundant in advanced cancer stages, while being barely detectable in normal breast tissue, providing a rationale for the finding that RT-expressing tumors are therapeutically sensitive to RT inhibitors. We summarize mechanistic and gene profiling studies indicating that abundant LINE-1-derived RT can “sequester” RNA substrates for reverse transcription in tumor cells, entailing the formation of RNA:DNA hybrid molecules and impairing the overall production of regulatory miRNAs, with a global impact on the cell transcriptome. Based on these data, LINE-1-ORF2 encoded RT has a tumor-promoting potential that is exerted at an epigenetic level. We propose a model whereby LINE1-RT drives a previously unrecognized global regulatory process, the deregulation of which drives cell transformation and tumorigenesis with possible implications for cancer cell heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Corrado Spadafora
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Resarch Council of Italy Rome, Italy
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25
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Spadafora C. A LINE-1-encoded reverse transcriptase-dependent regulatory mechanism is active in embryogenesis and tumorigenesis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2015; 1341:164-71. [PMID: 25586649 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.12637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
LINE-1 (long interspersed nuclear elements) retrotransposons constitute a large family of retrotransposable elements, accounting for 17% of the human genome. They encode proteins required for their own mobilization, including a reverse transcriptase (RT) enzyme highly expressed in mouse embryos and mouse and human cancer cells and repressed in somatic differentiated healthy cells. We have found that reverse transcription takes place in early murine embryos, yielding an increase in LINE-1 copy number during preimplantation development, which also occurs in tumor progression. RT inhibition irreversibly arrests embryo development, reduces cancer cell proliferation, promotes differentiation, antagonizes tumor growth, and causes a global reprogramming of transcription profiles. These results strongly suggest that a previously unrecognized RT-dependent regulatory mechanism operates during preimplantation development, is repressed during differentiation to normal tissues, and, when erroneously reactivated in adult life, promotes cell transformation and cancer progression by "resurrecting" embryonic transcriptional pathways. The RT-dependent mechanism emerges as a major source of genetic and epigenetic changes with physiological, pathological, and evolutionary implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Spadafora
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy; CNR Institute of Translational Pharmacology, Rome, Italy
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Amaral A, Castillo J, Ramalho-Santos J, Oliva R. The combined human sperm proteome: cellular pathways and implications for basic and clinical science. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:40-62. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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Rebordinos L, Cross I, Merlo A. High evolutionary dynamism in 5S rDNA of fish: state of the art. Cytogenet Genome Res 2013; 141:103-13. [PMID: 24080995 DOI: 10.1159/000354871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The 5S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) consists of one transcriptional unit of about 120 base pairs, which is separated from the next unit by a non-transcribed spacer (NTS). The coding sequence and the NTS together form a repeat unit which can be found in hundreds to thousands of copies tandemly repeated in the genomes. The NTS regions seem to be subject to rapid evolution. The first general model of evolution of these multigene families was referred to as divergent evolution, based on studies using hemoglobin and myoglobin as model systems. Later studies showed that nucleotide sequences of different multigene family members are more closely related within species than between species. This observation led to a new model of multigene family evolution, termed concerted evolution. Another model of evolution, named the birth-and-death model, has been found to be more suitable to explain the long-term evolution of these multigene families. According to this model, new genes originate by successive duplications, and these new genes are either maintained for a long time or are lost, or else degenerate into pseudogenes. In this review we describe different sources of variability in the 5S rDNA genes observed in several distinct fish species. This variability is mainly referred to NTSs and includes the presence of other multigene families (mainly LINEs, SINEs, non-LTR retrotransposons, and U snRNA families). Different types of microsatellites have also been found to contribute to the increase of variability in this region. Our recent results suggest that horizontal transfer contributes to the increase of diversity in the NTSs of some species. Variability in the 5S rDNA coding region affecting the stability of the structure, but without effects on the function of the 5S rRNA, is also described. Retrotransposons seem to be responsible for the high dynamism of 5S rDNA, while microsatellites acting as recombination hot spots could stabilize a wide variety of unusual DNA structures, affecting DNA replication and enhancing or decreasing promoter activity in gene expression. The relationship between the high variability found at molecular level and the low variability found at chromosomal level is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Rebordinos
- Area de Genética, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, CEI-Mar, Universidad de Cádiz, Puerto Real, Spain
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Das PJ, McCarthy F, Vishnoi M, Paria N, Gresham C, Li G, Kachroo P, Sudderth AK, Teague S, Love CC, Varner DD, Chowdhary BP, Raudsepp T. Stallion sperm transcriptome comprises functionally coherent coding and regulatory RNAs as revealed by microarray analysis and RNA-seq. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56535. [PMID: 23409192 PMCID: PMC3569414 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mature mammalian sperm contain a complex population of RNAs some of which might regulate spermatogenesis while others probably play a role in fertilization and early development. Due to this limited knowledge, the biological functions of sperm RNAs remain enigmatic. Here we report the first characterization of the global transcriptome of the sperm of fertile stallions. The findings improved understanding of the biological significance of sperm RNAs which in turn will allow the discovery of sperm-based biomarkers for stallion fertility. The stallion sperm transcriptome was interrogated by analyzing sperm and testes RNA on a 21,000-element equine whole-genome oligoarray and by RNA-seq. Microarray analysis revealed 6,761 transcripts in the sperm, of which 165 were sperm-enriched, and 155 were differentially expressed between the sperm and testes. Next, 70 million raw reads were generated by RNA-seq of which 50% could be aligned with the horse reference genome. A total of 19,257 sequence tags were mapped to all horse chromosomes and the mitochondrial genome. The highest density of mapped transcripts was in gene-rich ECA11, 12 and 13, and the lowest in gene-poor ECA9 and X; 7 gene transcripts originated from ECAY. Structural annotation aligned sperm transcripts with 4,504 known horse and/or human genes, rRNAs and 82 miRNAs, whereas 13,354 sequence tags remained anonymous. The data were aligned with selected equine gene models to identify additional exons and splice variants. Gene Ontology annotations showed that sperm transcripts were associated with molecular processes (chemoattractant-activated signal transduction, ion transport) and cellular components (membranes and vesicles) related to known sperm functions at fertilization, while some messenger and micro RNAs might be critical for early development. The findings suggest that the rich repertoire of coding and non-coding RNAs in stallion sperm is not a random remnant from spermatogenesis in testes but a selectively retained and functionally coherent collection of RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranab J Das
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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Amaral A, Ramalho-Santos J. The male gamete is not a somatic cell--the possible meaning of varying sperm RNA levels. Antioxid Redox Signal 2013; 18:179-80. [PMID: 22703389 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2012.4715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Clinic Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Smith KR, Chan S, Harris J. Human germline genetic modification: scientific and bioethical perspectives. Arch Med Res 2012; 43:491-513. [PMID: 23072719 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2012.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 09/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The latest mammalian genetic modification technology offers efficient and reliable targeting of genomic sequences, in the guise of designer genetic recombination tools. These and other improvements in genetic engineering technology suggest that human germline genetic modification (HGGM) will become a safe and effective prospect in the relatively near future. Several substantive ethical objections have been raised against HGGM including claims of unacceptably high levels of risk, damage to the status of future persons, and violations of justice and autonomy. This paper critically reviews the latest GM science and discusses the key ethical objections to HGGM. We conclude that major benefits are likely to accrue through the use of safe and effective HGGM and that it would thus be unethical to take a precautionary stance against HGGM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R Smith
- School of Contemporary Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee, United Kingdom.
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Merlo MA, Cross I, Palazón JL, Ubeda-Manzanaro M, Sarasquete C, Rebordinos L. Evidence for 5S rDNA horizontal transfer in the toadfish Halobatrachus didactylus (Schneider, 1801) based on the analysis of three multigene families. BMC Evol Biol 2012; 12:201. [PMID: 23039906 PMCID: PMC3544641 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-12-201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Accepted: 10/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Batrachoididae family is a group of marine teleosts that includes several species with more complicated physiological characteristics, such as their excretory, reproductive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Previous studies of the 5S rDNA gene family carried out in four species from the Western Atlantic showed two types of this gene in two species but only one in the other two, under processes of concerted evolution and birth-and-death evolution with purifying selection. Here we present results of the 5S rDNA and another two gene families in Halobatrachus didactylus, an Eastern Atlantic species, and draw evolutionary inferences regarding the gene families. In addition we have also mapped the genes on the chromosomes by two-colour fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). RESULTS Two types of 5S rDNA were observed, named type α and type β. Molecular analysis of the 5S rDNA indicates that H. didactylus does not share the non-transcribed spacer (NTS) sequences with four other species of the family; therefore, it must have evolved in isolation. Amplification with the type β specific primers amplified a specific band in 9 specimens of H. didactylus and two of Sparus aurata. Both types showed regulatory regions and a secondary structure which mark them as functional genes. However, the U2 snRNA gene and the ITS-1 sequence showed one electrophoretic band and with one type of sequence. The U2 snRNA sequence was the most variable of the three multigene families studied. Results from two-colour FISH showed no co-localization of the gene coding from three multigene families and provided the first map of the chromosomes of the species. CONCLUSIONS A highly significant finding was observed in the analysis of the 5S rDNA, since two such distant species as H. didactylus and Sparus aurata share a 5S rDNA type. This 5S rDNA type has been detected in other species belonging to the Batrachoidiformes and Perciformes orders, but not in the Pleuronectiformes and Clupeiformes orders. Two hypotheses have been outlined: one is the possible vertical permanence of the shared type in some fish lineages, and the other is the possibility of a horizontal transference event between ancient species of the Perciformes and Batrachoidiformes orders. This finding opens a new perspective in fish evolution and in the knowledge of the dynamism of the 5S rDNA. Cytogenetic analysis allowed some evolutionary trends to be roughed out, such as the progressive change in the U2 snDNA and the organization of (GATA)n repeats, from dispersed to localized in one locus. The accumulation of (GATA)n repeats in one chromosome pair could be implicated in the evolution of a pair of proto-sex chromosomes. This possibility could situate H. didactylus as the most highly evolved of the Batrachoididae family in terms of sex chromosome biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel A Merlo
- Laboratorio Genética, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, CACYTMAR, Universidad de Cádiz, Puerto Real (Cádiz), 11510, Spain
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Fontana A, Wróbel B. A model of evolution of development based on germline penetration of new "no-junk" DNA. Genes (Basel) 2012; 3:492-504. [PMID: 24704981 PMCID: PMC3899995 DOI: 10.3390/genes3030492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2012] [Revised: 07/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a mounting body of evidence that somatic transposition may be involved in normal development of multicellular organisms and in pathology, especially cancer. Epigenetic Tracking (ET) is an abstract model of multicellular development, able to generate complex 3-dimensional structures. Its aim is not to model the development of a particular organism nor to merely summarise mainstream knowledge on genetic regulation of development. Rather, the goal of ET is to provide a theoretical framework to test new postulated genetic mechanisms, not fully established yet in mainstream biology. The first proposal is that development is orchestrated through a subset of cells which we call driver cells. In these cells, the cellular state determines a specific pattern of gene activation which leads to the occurrence of developmental events. The second proposal is that evolution of development is affected by somatic transposition events. We postulate that when the genome of a driver cell does not specify what developmental event should be undertaken when the cell is in a particular cellular state, somatic transposition events can reshape the genome, build new regulatory regions, and lead to a new pattern of gene activation in the cell. Our third hypothesis, not supported yet by direct evidence, but consistent with some experimental observations, is that these new “no-junk” sequences—regulatory regions created by transposable elements at new positions in the genome—can exit the cell and enter the germline, to be incorporated in the genome of the progeny. We call this mechanism germline penetration. This process allows heritable incorporation of novel developmental events in the developmental trajectory. In this paper we will present the model and link these three postulated mechanisms to biological observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Fontana
- Faculty of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics, Technical University of Gdansk, Gabriela Narutowicza 11/12, PL80233, Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Borys Wróbel
- Evolving Systems Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, PL61614 Poznan, Poland.
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Merlo MA, Pacchiarini T, Portela-Bens S, Cross I, Manchado M, Rebordinos L. Genetic characterization of Plectorhinchus mediterraneus yields important clues about genome organization and evolution of multigene families. BMC Genet 2012; 13:33. [PMID: 22545758 PMCID: PMC3464664 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2156-13-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Molecular and cytogenetic markers are of great use for to fish characterization, identification, phylogenetics and evolution. Multigene families have proven to be good markers for a better understanding of the variability, organization and evolution of fish species. Three different tandemly-repeated gene families (45S rDNA, 5S rDNA and U2 snDNA) have been studied in Plectorhinchus mediterraneus (Teleostei: Haemulidae), at both molecular and cytogenetic level, to elucidate the taxonomy and evolution of these multigene families, as well as for comparative purposes with other species of the family. Results Four different types of 5S rDNA were obtained; two of them showed a high homology with that of Raja asterias, and the putative implication of a horizontal transfer event and its consequences for the organization and evolution of the 5S rDNA have been discussed. The other two types do not resemble any other species, but in one of them a putative tRNA-derived SINE was observed for the first time, which could have implications in the evolution of the 5S rDNA. The ITS-1 sequence was more related to a species of another different genus than to that of the same genus, therefore a revision of the Hamulidae family systematic has been proposed. In the analysis of the U2 snDNA, we were able to corroborate that U2 snDNA and U5 snDNA were linked in the same tandem array, and this has interest for tracing evolutionary lines. The karyotype of the species was composed of 2n = 48 acrocentric chromosomes, and each of the three multigene families were located in different chromosome pairs, thus providing three different chromosomal markers. Conclusions Novel data can be extracted from the results: a putative event of horizontal transfer, a possible tRNA-derived SINE linked to one of the four 5S rDNA types characterized, and a linkage between U2 and U5 snDNA. In addition, a revision of the taxonomy of the Haemulidae family has been suggested, and three cytogenetic markers have been obtained. Some of these results have not been described before in any other fish species. New clues about the genome organization and evolution of the multigene families are offered in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel A Merlo
- Laboratorio de Genética, Universidad de Cádiz, Polígono Río San Pedro 11510, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
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Zhang Y, Xi Q, Ding J, Cai W, Meng F, Zhou J, Li H, Jiang Q, Shu G, Wang S, Zhu X, Gao P, Wu Z. Production of transgenic pigs mediated by pseudotyped lentivirus and sperm. PLoS One 2012; 7:e35335. [PMID: 22536374 PMCID: PMC3335058 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0035335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm-mediated gene transfer can be a very efficient method to produce transgenic pigs, however, the results from different laboratories had not been widely repeated. Genomic integration of transgene by injection of pseudotyped lentivirus to the perivitelline space has been proved to be a reliable route to generate transgenic animals. To test whether transgene in the lentivirus can be delivered by sperm, we studied incubation of pseudotyped lentiviruses and sperm before insemination. After incubation with pig spermatozoa, 62±3 lentiviral particles were detected per 100 sperm cells using quantitative real-time RT-PCR. The association of lentivirus with sperm was further confirmed by electron microscopy. The sperm incubated with lentiviral particles were artificially inseminated into pigs. Of the 59 piglets born from inseminated 5 sows, 6 piglets (10.17%) carried the transgene based on the PCR identification. Foreign gene and EGFP was successfully detected in ear tissue biopsies from two PCR-positive pigs, revealed via in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Offspring of one PCR-positive boar with normal sows showed PCR-positive. Two PCR-positive founders and offsprings of PCR-positive boar were further identified by Southern-blot analysis, out of which the two founders and two offsprings were positive in Southern blotting, strongly indicating integration of foreign gene into genome. The results indicate that incubation of sperm with pseudotyped lentiviruses can incorporated with sperm-mediated gene transfer to produce transgenic pigs with improved efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongliang Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianyun Xi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (QYX); (ZFW)
| | - Jinghua Ding
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiguang Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fanmin Meng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junyun Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyi Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingyan Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Shu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Songbo Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaotong Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (QYX); (ZFW)
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Gross J, Bhattacharya D, Pelletreau KN, Rumpho ME, Reyes-Prieto A. Secondary and Tertiary Endosymbiosis and Kleptoplasty. ADVANCES IN PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND RESPIRATION 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-2920-9_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Umeyama K, Saito H, Kurome M, Matsunari H, Watanabe M, Nakauchi H, Nagashima H. Characterization of the ICSI-mediated gene transfer method in the production of transgenic pigs. Mol Reprod Dev 2011; 79:218-28. [PMID: 22213433 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 12/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the behavior of transgenes introduced into oocytes or embryos is essential for evaluating the methodologies for transgenic animal production. We investigated the expression pattern of a transgene transferred to porcine eggs by intracytoplasmic sperm injection-mediated gene transfer (ICSI-MGT) or pronuclear microinjection (PN injection). The introduction of the EGFP gene by ICSI-MGT yielded significantly more embryos with non-mosaic transgene expression (P < 0.01). In the ICSI-MGT group, 61.5% (24/39) of the embryos were EGFP-positive in all their component blastomeres at the morula stage, while fewer than 10% of such embryos were EGFP-positive in the PN-injection group. Using three types of transgenes, ranging from 3.0 to 7.5 kb in size, we confirmed that approximately one in four fetuses obtained by ICSI-MGT was transgenic, suggesting that ICSI-MGT is a practical method for transgenic pig production. Southern blot analysis of 12 transgenic fetuses produced by ICSI-MGT revealed that the number of integrated transgene copies varied from 1 to 300, with no correlation between transgene size and the number of integrated copies. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis revealed that the transgenes were randomly integrated into a single site on the host chromosomes. Together, these data indicate that multiple-copy, single-site integration of a transgene is the primary outcome of ICSI-MGT in the pig and that ICSI-MGT is less likely than PN injection to cause transgene integration in a mosaic manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Umeyama
- Laboratory of Developmental Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, Tama, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
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Vitullo P, Sciamanna I, Baiocchi M, Sinibaldi-Vallebona P, Spadafora C. LINE-1 retrotransposon copies are amplified during murine early embryo development. Mol Reprod Dev 2011; 79:118-27. [PMID: 22139884 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Two large families of retrotransposons, that is, LINE-1 (Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements-1) and endogenous retroviruses, encode reverse transcriptase (RT) proteins in vertebrates. We previously showed that mouse preimplantation embryos are endowed with an endogenous, functional RT activity. Inhibiting that activity by microinjecting antisense oligonucleotides against a highly active LINE-1 family member in mouse oocytes blocked developmental progression between the two- and four-blastomere stages, indicating that LINE-1-encoded RT activity is strictly required at this critical transition in early development. Here we show that incubation of mouse zygotes with 5'-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) yields massive incorporation of this nucleoside analogue in newly synthesized DNA; surprisingly, a significant incorporation still occurs in both zygotic pronuclei in the presence of aphidicolin, a specific inhibitor of DNA replication. This aphidicolin-resistant BrdU incorporation is quantitatively abolished when embryos are simultaneously exposed to abacavir, a nucleoside RT inhibitor, indicating its retrotranscription-dependent nature. Moreover, quantitative PCR analysis revealed a burst of new synthesis of LINE-1 copies at the zygote- and two-cell embryo stages. These findings support the conclusion that RT-dependent amplification of LINE-1 retrotransposons is a distinctive feature of early embryonic genomes. Its physiological involvement in preimplantation murine development is discussed.
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Prostasomal DNA characterization and transfer into human sperm. Mol Reprod Dev 2011; 78:467-76. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.21327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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40
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Sciamanna I, Vitullo P, Curatolo A, Spadafora C. A reverse transcriptase-dependent mechanism is essential for murine preimplantation development. Genes (Basel) 2011; 2:360-73. [PMID: 24710196 PMCID: PMC3924816 DOI: 10.3390/genes2020360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Revised: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 05/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
LINE-1 (Long Interspersed Nuclear elements) and HERVs (Human Endogenous Retroviruses) are two families of retrotransposons which together account for about 28% of the human genome. Genes harbored within LINE-1 and HERV retrotransposons, particularly that encoding the reverse transcriptase (RT) enzyme, are generally expressed at low levels in differentiated cells, but their expression is up-regulated in embryonic tissues and transformed cells. Here we review evidence indicating that the LINE-1-encoded RT plays regulatory roles in early embryonic development. Indeed, antisense-mediated inhibition of expression of a highly expressed LINE-1 family in mouse zygotes caused developmental arrest at the two- or four-cell embryo stages. Development is also arrested when the embryo endogenous RT activity is pharmacologically inhibited by nevirapine, an RT inhibitor currently employed in AIDS treatment. The arrest of embryonic development is irreversible even after RT inhibition is removed and it is associated with subverted gene expression profiles. These data indicate an early requirement for LINE-1-encoded RT to support early developmental progression. Consistent with this, recent findings indicate that a reverse transcription wave is triggered in the zygote a few hours after fertilization and is propagated at least through the first two rounds of cell division. On the whole these findings suggest that reverse transcription is strictly required in early embryos as a key component of a novel RT-dependent mechanism that regulated the proper unfolding of the developmental program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Sciamanna
- Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Vitullo
- Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Angela Curatolo
- Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Corrado Spadafora
- Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Liu YS. Telegony, the Sire Effect and non-Mendelian Inheritance Mediated by Spermatozoa: A Historical Overview and Modern Mechanistic Speculations. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 46:338-43. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01672.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Steele EJ, Williamson JF, Lester S, Stewart BJ, Millman JA, Carnegie P, Lindley RA, Pain GN, Dawkins RL. Genesis of ancestral haplotypes: RNA modifications and reverse transcription-mediated polymorphisms. Hum Immunol 2010; 72:283-293.e1. [PMID: 21156194 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2010.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2010] [Revised: 11/15/2010] [Accepted: 12/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the genesis of the block haplotype structure of the genome is a major challenge. With the completion of the sequencing of the Human Genome and the initiation of the HapMap project the concept that the chromosomes of the mammalian genome are a mosaic, or patchwork, of conserved extended block haplotype sequences is now accepted by the mainstream genomics research community. Ancestral Haplotypes (AHs) can be viewed as a recombined string of smaller Polymorphic Frozen Blocks (PFBs). How have such variant extended DNA sequence tracts emerged in evolution? Here the relevant literature on the problem is reviewed from various fields of molecular and cell biology particularly molecular immunology and comparative and functional genomics. Based on our synthesis we then advance a testable molecular and cellular model. A critical part of the analysis concerns the origin of the strand biased mutation signatures in the transcribed regions of the human and higher primate genome, A-to-G versus T-to-C (ratio ∼ 1.5 fold) and C-to-T versus G-to-A (≥ 1.5 fold). A comparison and evaluation of the current state of the fields of immunoglobulin Somatic Hypermutation (SHM) and Transcription-Coupled DNA Repair focused on how mutations in newly synthesized RNA might be copied back to DNA thus accounting for some of the genome-wide strand biases (e.g., the A-to-G vs T-to-C component of the strand biased spectrum). We hypothesize that the genesis of PFBs and extended AHs occurs during mutagenic episodes in evolution (e.g., retroviral infections) and that many of the critical DNA sequence diversifying events occur first at the RNA level, e.g., recombination between RNA strings resulting in tandem and dispersed RNA duplications (retroduplications), RNA mutations via adenosine-to-inosine pre-mRNA editing events as well as error prone RNA synthesis. These are then copied back into DNA by a cellular reverse transcription process (also likely to be error-prone) that we have called "reverse transcription-mediated long DNA conversion." Finally we suggest that all these activities and others can be envisaged as being brought physically under the umbrella of special sites in the nucleus involved in transcription known as "transcription factories."
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Steele
- C.Y O'Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Canning Vale, Western Australia, Australia.
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High rates of bovine blastocyst development after ICSI-mediated gene transfer assisted by chemical activation. Theriogenology 2010; 74:922-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2010] [Revised: 04/03/2010] [Accepted: 04/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Shadanloo F, Najafi MH, Hosseini SM, Hajian M, Forouzanfar M, Ghaedi K, Abedi P, Ostadhosseini S, Hosseini L, Eskandari-Nasab MP, Esfahani MHN. Sperm status and DNA dose play key roles in sperm/ICSI-mediated gene transfer in caprine. Mol Reprod Dev 2010; 77:868-75. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.21228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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45
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Abstract
The profound architectural changes that transform spermatids into spermatozoa result in a high degree of DNA packaging within the sperm head. However, the mature sperm chromatin that harbors imprinted genes exhibits a dual nucleoprotamine/nucleohistone structure with DNase-sensitive regions, which could be implicated in the establishment of efficient epigenetic information in the developing embryo. Despite its apparent transcriptionally inert state, the sperm nucleus contains diverse RNA populations, mRNAs, antisense and miRNAs, that have been transcribed throughout spermatogenesis. There is also an endogenous reverse transcriptase that may be activated under certain circumstances. It is now commonly accepted that sperm can deliver some RNAs to the ovocyte at fertilization. This review presents potential links between male-specific genomic imprinting, chromatin organization, and the presence of diverse RNA populations within the sperm nucleus and discusses the functional significance of these RNAs in the spermatozoon itself and in the early embryo following fertilization. Some recent data are provided, supporting the view that analyzing the profile of spermatozoal RNAs could be useful for assessment of male fertility.
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Huang S, Li H, Ding X, Xiong C. Presence and Characterization of Cell-Free Seminal RNA in Healthy Individuals: Implications for Noninvasive Disease Diagnosis and Gene Expression Studies of the Male Reproductive System. Clin Chem 2009; 55:1967-76. [PMID: 19745059 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2009.131128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: We recently detected cell-free seminal RNA (cfsRNA) and set out to study its concentration, integrity, stability in healthy individuals, and mechanisms for its protection from ribonucleases.
Methods: We quantified cfsRNA by reverse-transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) targeting of the 5′ region of the ACTB (actin, beta) transcript. cfsRNA integrity was analyzed by microcapillary electrophoresis and by amplification of full-length ACTB and DDX4 [DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypeptide 4] transcripts, including measurement of the relative amounts of different regions of ACTB and DDX4 transcripts. Stability of cfsRNA was measured by time-course analysis of different regions of ACTB and DDX4 transcripts. To investigate whether cfsRNA was protected in complexed forms, we processed seminal plasma in 2 ways: filtration through pores of different sizes and Triton X-100 treatment before RNA recovery.
Results: cfsRNA concentrations varied from 0.87–3.64 mg/L [mean (SD), 1.75 mg/L (0.92 mg/L)]. Most cfsRNA was present in partially degraded forms, with smaller amounts of middle and 3′ amplicons compared with 5′ amplicons. Although the 3′ region of the DDX4 transcript was degraded completely by 90 min, the 5′ regions of ACTB and DDX4 transcripts were stable up to 24 h. Filtration through 0.22-μm pores reduced ACTB and DDX4 mRNA concentrations by 72% and 61%, respectively. Nearly all seminal ACTB and DDX4 mRNA disappeared after Triton X-100 treatment.
Conclusions: Although cfsRNA was partially degraded, it represented diverse transcript species and was abundant, fairly stable, and associated with particles in healthy individuals. cfsRNA may represent a potential noninvasive biomarker of the male reproductive system and of germline epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyun Huang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofang Ding
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengliang Xiong
- Family Planning Research Institute, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
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Sciamanna I, Vitullo P, Curatolo A, Spadafora C. Retrotransposons, reverse transcriptase and the genesis of new genetic information. Gene 2009; 448:180-6. [PMID: 19631262 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2009.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2009] [Revised: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 07/14/2009] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Spermatozoa of virtually all species can take up exogenous DNA or RNA molecules and internalize them into nuclei. A sperm endogenous reverse transcriptase activity can reverse-transcribe the internalized molecules in cDNA copies: exogenous RNA is reverse-transcribed in a one-step reaction, whereas DNA is first transcribed into RNA and subsequently reverse-transcribed. In either case, the newly synthesized cDNAs are delivered from sperm cells to oocytes at fertilization and are further propagated throughout embryogenesis and in tissues of adult animals. The reverse-transcribed sequences are underrepresented (below 1 copy/genome), mosaic distributed in tissues of adult individuals, transmitted in a non-Mendelian fashion from founders to F1 progeny, transcriptionally competent, variably expressed in different tissues and temporally transient, as they progressively disappear in aged animals. Based on these features, the reverse-transcribed sequences behave as extrachromosomal, biologically active retrogenes and induce novel phenotypic traits in animals. This RT-dependent mechanism, presumably originating from LINE-1 retroelements, generates transcriptionally competent retrogenes in sperm cells. These data strengthen the emerging view of a novel transgenerational genetics as the source of a continuous flow of novel epigenetic and phenotypic traits, independent from those associated to chromosomes. The distinctive features of this retrotransposon-based phenomenon share analogies with a recently discovered form of RNA-mediated inheritance, compatible with a Lamarckian-type adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Sciamanna
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Niu Y, Liang S. Progress in gene transfer by germ cells in mammals. J Genet Genomics 2009; 35:701-14. [PMID: 19103425 DOI: 10.1016/s1673-8527(08)60225-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2008] [Revised: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Use of germ cells as vectors for transgenesis in mammals has been well developed and offers exciting prospects for experimental and applied biology, agricultural and medical sciences. Such approach is referred to as either male germ cell mediated gene transfer (MGCMGT) or female germ cell mediated gene transfer (FGCMGT) technique. Sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT), including its alternative method, testis-mediated gene transfer (TMGT), becomes an established and reliable method for transgenesis. They have been extensively used for producing transgenic animals. The newly developed approach of FGCMGT, ovary-mediated gene transfer (OMGT) is also a novel and useful tool for efficient transgenesis. This review highlights an overview of the recent progress in germ cell mediated gene transfer techniques, methods developed and mechanisms of nucleic acid uptake by germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidong Niu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China.
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Harel-Markowitz E, Gurevich M, Shore LS, Katz A, Stram Y, Shemesh M. Use of sperm plasmid DNA lipofection combined with REMI (restriction enzyme-mediated insertion) for production of transgenic chickens expressing eGFP (enhanced green fluorescent protein) or human follicle-stimulating hormone. Biol Reprod 2009; 80:1046-52. [PMID: 19164177 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.070375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Linearized p-eGFP (plasmid-enhanced green fluorescent protein) or p-hFSH (plasmid human FSH) sequences with the corresponding restriction enzyme were lipofected into sperm genomic DNA. Sperm transfected with p-eGFP were used for artificial insemination in hens, and in 17 out of 19 of the resultant chicks, the exogenous DNA was detected in their lymphocytes as determined by PCR and expressed in tissues as determined by (a) PCR, (b) specific emission of green fluorescence by the eGFP, and (c) Southern blot analysis. A complete homology was found between the Aequorea Victoria eGFP DNA and a 313-bp PCR product of extracted DNA from chick blood cells. Following insemination with sperm lipofected with p-hFSH, transgenic offspring were obtained for two generations as determined by detection of the transgene for human FSH (PCR) and expression of the gene (RT-PCR and quantitative real-time PCR) and the presence of the protein in blood (radioimmunoassay). Data demonstrate that lipofection of plasmid DNA with restriction enzyme is a highly efficient method for the production of transfected sperm to produce transgenic offspring by direct artificial insemination.
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