1
|
Lu X. Regulation of endogenous retroviruses in murine embryonic stem cells and early embryos. J Mol Cell Biol 2024; 15:mjad052. [PMID: 37604781 PMCID: PMC10794949 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjad052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are important components of transposable elements that constitute ∼40% of the mouse genome. ERVs exhibit dynamic expression patterns during early embryonic development and are engaged in numerous biological processes. Therefore, ERV expression must be closely monitored in cells. Most studies have focused on the regulation of ERV expression in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and during early embryonic development. This review touches on the classification, expression, and functions of ERVs in mouse ESCs and early embryos and mainly discusses ERV modulation strategies from the perspectives of transcription, epigenetic modification, nucleosome/chromatin assembly, and post-transcriptional control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kang L, Li C, Qin A, Liu Z, Li X, Zeng L, Yu H, Wang Y, Song J, Chen R. Identification and Expression Analysis of the Nucleotidyl Transferase Protein (NTP) Family in Soybean ( Glycine max) under Various Abiotic Stresses. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1115. [PMID: 38256188 PMCID: PMC10816777 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021115] [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: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Nucleotidyl transferases (NTPs) are common transferases in eukaryotes and play a crucial role in nucleotide modifications at the 3' end of RNA. In plants, NTPs can regulate RNA stability by influencing 3' end modifications, which in turn affect plant growth, development, stress responses, and disease resistance. Although the functions of NTP family members have been extensively studied in Arabidopsis, rice, and maize, there is limited knowledge about NTP genes in soybeans. In this study, we identified 16 members of the NTP family in soybeans, including two subfamilies (G1 and G2) with distinct secondary structures, conserved motifs, and domain distributions at the protein level. Evolutionary analysis of genes in the NTP family across multiple species and gene collinearity analysis revealed a relatively conserved evolutionary pattern. Analysis of the tertiary structure of the proteins showed that NTPs have three conserved aspartic acids that bind together to form a possible active site. Tissue-specific expression analysis indicated that some NTP genes exhibit tissue-specific expression, likely due to their specific functions. Stress expression analysis showed significant differences in the expression levels of NTP genes under high salt, drought, and cold stress. Additionally, RNA-seq analysis of soybean plants subjected to salt and drought stress further confirmed the association of soybean NTP genes with abiotic stress responses. Subcellular localization experiments revealed that GmNTP2 and GmNTP14, which likely have similar functions to HESO1 and URT1, are located in the nucleus. These research findings provide a foundation for further investigations into the functions of NTP family genes in soybeans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liqing Kang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Changgen Li
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Aokang Qin
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Zehui Liu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Xuanyue Li
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Liming Zeng
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Hongyang Yu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yihua Wang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Jianbo Song
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Rongrong Chen
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; (L.K.); (C.L.); (A.Q.); (Z.L.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li Y, Cao Y, Liu W, Chen F, Zhang H, Zhou H, Zhao A, Luo N, Liu J, Wu L. Candidate biomarkers of EV-microRNA in detecting REM sleep behavior disorder and Parkinson's disease. NPJ Parkinsons Dis 2024; 10:18. [PMID: 38200052 PMCID: PMC10781790 DOI: 10.1038/s41531-023-00628-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) lacks reliable, non-invasive biomarker tests for early intervention and management. Thus, a minimally invasive test for the early detection and monitoring of PD and REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) is a highly unmet need for developing drugs and planning patient care. Extracellular vehicles (EVs) are found in a wide variety of biofluids, including plasma. EV-mediated functional transfer of microRNAs (miRNAs) may be viable candidates as biomarkers for PD and iRBD. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of EV-derived small RNAs was performed in 60 normal controls, 56 iRBD patients and 53 PD patients to profile small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs). Moreover, prospective follow-up was performed for these 56 iRBD patients for an average of 3.3 years. Full-scale miRNA profiles of plasma EVs were evaluated by machine-learning methods. After optimizing the library construction method for low RNA inputs (named EVsmall-seq), we built a machine learning algorithm that identified diagnostic miRNA signatures for distinguishing iRBD patients (AUC 0.969) and PD patients (AUC 0.916) from healthy individuals; and PD patients (AUC 0.929) from iRBD patients. We illustrated all the possible expression patterns across healthy-iRBD-PD hierarchy. We also showed 20 examples of miRNAs with consistently increasing or decreasing expression levels from controls to iRBD to PD. In addition, four miRNAs were found to be correlated with iRBD conversion. Distinct characteristics of the miRNA profiles among normal, iRBD and PD samples were discovered, which provides a panel of promising biomarkers for the identification of PD patients and those in the prodromal stage iRBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Neurology & Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Cao
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, 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
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Institute for Precision Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, 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
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangzheng Chen
- Department of Neurology & Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongdao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, 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
| | - Haisheng Zhou
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, 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
| | - Aonan Zhao
- Department of Neurology & Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ningdi Luo
- Department of Neurology & Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Neurology & Institute of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ligang Wu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, 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.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kretschmer M, Fischer V, Gapp K. When Dad's Stress Gets under Kid's Skin-Impacts of Stress on Germline Cargo and Embryonic Development. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1750. [PMID: 38136621 PMCID: PMC10742275 DOI: 10.3390/biom13121750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple lines of evidence suggest that paternal psychological stress contributes to an increased prevalence of neuropsychiatric and metabolic diseases in the progeny. While altered paternal care certainly plays a role in such transmitted disease risk, molecular factors in the germline might additionally be at play in humans. This is supported by findings on changes to the molecular make up of germ cells and suggests an epigenetic component in transmission. Several rodent studies demonstrate the correlation between paternal stress induced changes in epigenetic modifications and offspring phenotypic alterations, yet some intriguing cases also start to show mechanistic links in between sperm and the early embryo. In this review, we summarise efforts to understand the mechanism of intergenerational transmission from sperm to the early embryo. In particular, we highlight how stress alters epigenetic modifications in sperm and discuss the potential for these modifications to propagate modified molecular trajectories in the early embryo to give rise to aberrant phenotypes in adult offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kretschmer
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Neuroendocrinology, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Neuroscience, ETH Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland; (M.K.); (V.F.)
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Fischer
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Neuroendocrinology, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Neuroscience, ETH Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland; (M.K.); (V.F.)
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Gapp
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Neuroendocrinology, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Neuroscience, ETH Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland; (M.K.); (V.F.)
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Biondic S, Petropoulos S. Evidence for Functional Roles of MicroRNAs in Lineage Specification During Mouse and Human Preimplantation Development. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2023; 96:481-494. [PMID: 38161584 PMCID: PMC10751869 DOI: 10.59249/fosi4358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Proper formation of the blastocyst, including the specification of the first embryonic cellular lineages, is required to ensure healthy embryo development and can significantly impact the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). However, the regulatory role of microRNAs in early development, particularly in the context of preimplantation lineage specification, remains largely unknown. Taking a cross-species approach, this review aims to summarize the expression dynamics and functional significance of microRNAs in the differentiation and maintenance of lineage identity in both the mouse and the human. Findings are consolidated from studies conducted using in vitro embryonic stem cell models representing the epiblast, trophectoderm, and primitive endoderm lineages (modeled by naïve embryonic stem cells, trophoblast stem cells, and extraembryonic endoderm stem cells, respectively) to provide insight on what may be occurring in the embryo. Additionally, studies directly conducted in both mouse and human embryos are discussed, emphasizing similarities to the stem cell models and the gaps in our understanding, which will hopefully lead to further investigation of these areas. By unraveling the intricate mechanisms by which microRNAs regulate the specification and maintenance of cellular lineages in the blastocyst, we can leverage this knowledge to further optimize stem cell-based models such as the blastoids, enhance embryo competence, and develop methods of non-invasive embryo selection, which can potentially increase the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies and improve the experiences of those receiving fertility treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Savana Biondic
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de
l’Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program,
Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de
l’Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program,
Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of
Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm,
Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Moradi S, Guenther S, Soori S, Sharifi-Zarchi A, Kuenne C, Khoddami V, Tavakol P, Kreutzer S, Braun T, Baharvand H. Time-resolved Small-RNA Sequencing Identifies MicroRNAs Critical for Formation of Embryonic Stem Cells from the Inner Cell Mass of Mouse Embryos. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2361-2377. [PMID: 37402099 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10582-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Cells of the inner cell mass (ICM) acquire a unique ability for unlimited self-renewal during transition into embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in vitro, while preserving their natural multi-lineage differentiation potential. Several different pathways have been identified to play roles in ESC formation but the function of non-coding RNAs in this process is poorly understood. Here, we describe several microRNAs (miRNAs) that are crucial for efficient generation of mouse ESCs from ICMs. Using small-RNA sequencing, we characterize dynamic changes in miRNA expression profiles during outgrowth of ICMs in a high-resolution, time-course dependent manner. We report several waves of miRNA transcription during ESC formation, to which miRNAs from the imprinted Dlk1-Dio3 locus contribute extensively. In silico analyses followed by functional investigations reveal that Dlk1-Dio3 locus-embedded miRNAs (miR-541-5p, miR-410-3p, and miR-381-3p), miR-183-5p, and miR-302b-3p promote, while miR-212-5p and let-7d-3p inhibit ESC formation. Collectively, these findings offer new mechanistic insights into the role of miRNAs during ESC derivation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharif Moradi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Stefan Guenther
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodelling, Max-Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Ludwigstr. 43, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Samira Soori
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Sharifi-Zarchi
- Computer Engineering Department, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Carsten Kuenne
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodelling, Max-Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Ludwigstr. 43, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Vahid Khoddami
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouya Tavakol
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Susanne Kreutzer
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodelling, Max-Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Ludwigstr. 43, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Thomas Braun
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodelling, Max-Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Ludwigstr. 43, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
| | - Hossein Baharvand
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Herbert A, Pavlov F, Konovalov D, Poptsova M. Conserved microRNAs and Flipons Shape Gene Expression during Development by Altering Promoter Conformations. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054884. [PMID: 36902315 PMCID: PMC10003719 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054884] [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: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The classical view of gene regulation draws from prokaryotic models, where responses to environmental changes involve operons regulated by sequence-specific protein interactions with DNA, although it is now known that operons are also modulated by small RNAs. In eukaryotes, pathways based on microRNAs (miR) regulate the readout of genomic information from transcripts, while alternative nucleic acid structures encoded by flipons influence the readout of genetic programs from DNA. Here, we provide evidence that miR- and flipon-based mechanisms are deeply connected. We analyze the connection between flipon conformation and the 211 highly conserved human miR that are shared with other placental and other bilateral species. The direct interaction between conserved miR (c-miR) and flipons is supported by sequence alignments and the engagement of argonaute proteins by experimentally validated flipons as well as their enrichment in promoters of coding transcripts important in multicellular development, cell surface glycosylation and glutamatergic synapse specification with significant enrichments at false discovery rates as low as 10-116. We also identify a second subset of c-miR that targets flipons essential for retrotransposon replication, exploiting that vulnerability to limit their spread. We propose that miR can act in a combinatorial manner to regulate the readout of genetic information by specifying when and where flipons form non-B DNA (NoB) conformations, providing the interactions of the conserved hsa-miR-324-3p with RELA and the conserved hsa-miR-744 with ARHGAP5 genes as examples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Herbert
- InsideOutBio, 42 8th Street, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Fedor Pavlov
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Faculty of Computer Science, National Research University Higher School of Economics, 11 Pokrovsky Bulvar, 101000 Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitrii Konovalov
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Faculty of Computer Science, National Research University Higher School of Economics, 11 Pokrovsky Bulvar, 101000 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria Poptsova
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Faculty of Computer Science, National Research University Higher School of Economics, 11 Pokrovsky Bulvar, 101000 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bovine embryos release extracellular vesicles with differential miRNA signature during the compaction and blastulation stages. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100725. [PMID: 36565511 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pre-implantation embryos release extracellular vesicles (EVs) to extracellular environment. In this work it is hypothesized that the EVs miRNA cargo will vary during pre-implantation development due to the constant changes in gene expression that take place through this period. The concentration, size and miRNA cargo of EVs secreted by competent bovine embryos during the period from compaction to blastulation (Day 3-7) were analyzed. For this analysis tow developmental windows were defined: W2 from 8-cells (D3) to morula (D5) and W3 from morula (D5) to blastocyst (D7). For W2, in vitro produced embryos were individually cultured in EVs-depleted medium from D3 to D5; culture media were collected and assigned to Group W2. Morulae were kept in culture up to blastocyst stage to determine the developmental competence. For W3, D5 morulae were collected and cultured individually in EVs-depleted medium up to blastocyst stage; culture media were assigned to Group W3, and blastocysts were kept in culture up to day 11 to define their competence. The mean size of EVs was similar between groups, however, EVs concentration was lower in W2. A total of 140 miRNAs were identified. From them, 79 were differentially expressed between the groups, 28 upregulated and 51 downregulated. miRNAs differentially detected between both developmental windows participate in the regulation of signaling pathways which crucial for embryonic development. It was concluded that the secretion of EVs is regulated by the developmental progress of the embryo during the pre-implantation period.
Collapse
|
9
|
Liu W, Chen J, Yang C, Lee KF, Lee YL, Chiu PCN, Zhang Y, Duan YG, Liu K, Yeung WSB. Expression of microRNA let-7 in cleavage embryos modulates cell fate determination and formation of mouse blastocysts†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1452-1463. [PMID: 36136742 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
After fertilization, the zygote undergoes cell division. Up to the 8-cell stage, the blastomeres of mouse preimplantation embryos are morphologically identical. The first cell differentiation starts in the morula leading to the formation of trophectoderm cells and inner cell mass cells of the blastocyst. The regulation of the differentiation event and the formation of blastocysts are not fully known. Lethal-7 (let-7) is a family of evolutionarily conserved microRNAs. Here, we showed that the expression of let-7a and let-7g decreased drastically from the 1-cell stage to the 2-cell stage, remained low up to the 8-cell stage and slightly increased after the morula stage of mouse embryos. The expression of let-7 in the inner cell mass was higher than that in the trophectoderm. Forced expression of let-7a in embryos at the 1-cell and 4-cell stage inhibited blastocyst formation and downregulated the expression of CDX2 but maintained that of OCT4 in the trophectoderm. Forced expression of other let-7 isoforms exhibited similar inhibitory action on blastulation. On the other hand, inhibition of let-7a at the 4-cell stage and the 8-cell stage enhanced blastocyst formation. Co-injection of green fluorescent protein (GFP) mRNA (lineage tracer) with either precursor of let-7a (pre-let-7a) or scramble control into one blastomere of 2-cell embryos showed that ~75% of the resulting blastocysts possessed GFP+ cells in their inner cell mass only. The biased development towards the inner cell mass with forced expression of let-7 was reproduced in 2-cell chimeric embryos consisting of one wildtype blastomere and one GFP mRNA-injected blastomere from another 2-cell embryo carrying a doxycycline-inducible let-7g gene. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that Tead4 was a potential target of let-7. Let-7 bound to the 3'UTR of Tead4 and let-7 forced expression downregulated the expression of Tead4 in mouse blastocysts. Co-injection of Tead4 mRNA partially nullified the modulatory roles of let-7a in the inner cell mass cell fate. In conclusion, a high level of let-7 at the 2-cell stage favored the formation of the inner cell mass, whereas a low level of let-7 at the 4-cell to 8-cell stage enhanced blastocyst formation. Tead4 mediated the action of let-7 on the inner cell mass cell-fate determination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yin-Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Philip Chi-Ngong Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yihui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong-Gong Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kui Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - William Shu-Biu Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression after transcription. miRNAs are present in transcriptionally quiescent full-grown oocytes and preimplantation embryos that display a low level of transcription prior to embryonic genome activation. The role of miRNAs, if any, in preimplantation development is not known. The temporal pattern of expression of miRNAs during bovine preimplantation development was determined by small RNA-sequencing using eggs and preimplantation embryos (1-cell, 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, 16-cell, morula, and blastocyst). Embryos cultured in the presence of α-amanitin, which permitted the distinguishing of maternal miRNAs from embryonic miRNAs, indicated that embryonic miRNA expression was first detected at the two-cell stage but dramatically increased during the morula and blastocyst stages. Targeting DGCR8 by a small-interfering RNA/morpholino approach revealed a role for miRNAs in the morula-to-blastocyst transition. Knockdown of DGCR8 not only inhibited expression of embryonically expressed miRNAs but also inhibited the morula-to-blastocyst transition. In addition, RNA-sequencing identified an increased relative abundance of messenger RNAs potentially targeted by embryonic miRNAs in DGCR8-knockdown embryos when compared with controls. Results from these experiments implicate an essential role for miRNAs in bovine preimplantation embryo development.
Collapse
|
11
|
Paloviita P, Vuoristo S. The non-coding genome in early human development - Recent advancements. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 131:4-13. [PMID: 35177347 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Not that long ago, the human genome was discovered to be mainly non-coding, that is comprised of DNA sequences that do not code for proteins. The initial paradigm that non-coding is also non-functional was soon overturned and today the work to uncover the functions of non-coding DNA and RNA in human early embryogenesis has commenced. Early human development is characterized by large-scale changes in genomic activity and the transcriptome that are partly driven by the coordinated activation and repression of repetitive DNA elements scattered across the genome. Here we provide examples of recent novel discoveries of non-coding DNA and RNA interactions and mechanisms that ensure accurate non-coding activity during human maternal-to-zygotic transition and lineage segregation. These include studies on small and long non-coding RNAs, transposable element regulation, and RNA tailing in human oocytes and early embryos. High-throughput approaches to dissect the non-coding regulatory networks governing early human development are a foundation for functional studies of specific genomic elements and molecules that has only begun and will provide a wider understanding of early human embryogenesis and causes of infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pauliina Paloviita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Vuoristo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Z, Meng N, Wang Y, Zhou T, Li M, Wang S, Chen S, Zheng H, Kong S, Wang H, Yan W. Ablation of the miR-465 Cluster Causes a Skewed Sex Ratio in Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:893854. [PMID: 35677715 PMCID: PMC9167928 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.893854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The X-linked miR-465 cluster is highly expressed in the testis, sperm, newborn ovary, and blastocysts as well as in 8-16 cell embryos. However, the physiological role of the miR-465 cluster is still largely unknown. This study aims to dissect the role of the miR-465 cluster in murine development. Despite abundant expression in the testis, ablation of the miR-465 miRNA cluster using CRISPR-Cas9 did not cause infertility. Instead, a skewed sex ratio biased toward males (60% males) was observed among miR-465 KO mice. Further analyses revealed that the female conceptuses selectively degenerated as early as embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5). Small RNA deep sequencing, qPCR, and in situ hybridization analyses revealed that the miRNAs encoded by the miR-465 cluster were mainly localized to the extraembryonic tissue/developing placenta. RNA-seq analyses identified altered mRNA transcriptome characterized by the dysregulation of numerous critical placental genes, e.g., Alkbh1, in the KO conceptuses at E7.5. Taken together, this study showed that the miR-465 cluster is required for normal female placental development, and ablation of the miR-465 cluster leads to a skewed sex ratio with more males (~60%) due to selective degeneration and resorption of the female conceptuses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuqing Wang
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Nan Meng
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Tong Zhou
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Musheng Li
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Shawn Wang
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Sheng Chen
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Huili Zheng
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Wei Yan,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cuthbert JM, Russell SJ, Polejaeva IA, Meng Q, White KL, Benninghoff AD. Comparing mRNA and sncRNA profiles during the maternal-to-embryonic transition in bovine IVF and scNT embryos. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1401-1415. [PMID: 34514499 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Production of embryos with high developmental competence by somatic cell nuclear transfer (scNT) is far less efficient than for in vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos, likely due to an accumulation of errors in genome reprogramming that results in aberrant expression of RNA transcripts, including messenger RNAs (mRNA) and, possibly, microRNAs (miRNA). Thus, our objectives were to use RNAseq to determine the dynamics of mRNA expression in early developing scNT and IVF embryos in the context of the maternal-to-embryonic transition (MET) and to correlate apparent transcriptional dysregulation in cloned embryos with miRNA expression profiles. Comparisons between scNT and IVF embryos indicated large scale transcriptome differences, which were most evident at the 8-cell and morula stages for genes associated with biological functions critical for the MET. For two miRNAs previously identified as differentially expressed in scNT morulae, miR-34a and miR-345, negative correlations with some predicted mRNA targets were apparent, though not widespread among the majority of predicted targets. Moreover, although large-scale aberrations in expression of mRNAs were evident during the MET in cattle scNT embryos, these changes were not consistently correlated with aberrations in miRNA expression at the same developmental stage, suggesting that other mechanisms controlling gene expression may be involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn M Cuthbert
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Stewart J Russell
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay St. #1100, Toronto, M5G 1N8, Canada
| | - Irina A Polejaeva
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Qinggang Meng
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Kenneth L White
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Abby D Benninghoff
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Small RNA expression and miRNA modification dynamics in human oocytes and early embryos. Genome Res 2021; 31:1474-1485. [PMID: 34340992 PMCID: PMC8327922 DOI: 10.1101/gr.268193.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Small noncoding RNAs (sRNAs) play important roles during the oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET), when the maternal phenotype is reprogrammed and the embryo genome is gradually activated. The transcriptional program driving early human development has been studied with the focus mainly on protein-coding RNAs, and expression dynamics of sRNAs remain largely unexplored. We profiled sRNAs in human oocytes and early embryos using an RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) method suitable for low inputs of material. We show that OET in humans is temporally coupled with the transition from predominant expression of oocyte short piRNAs (os-piRNAs) in oocytes, to activation of microRNA (miRNA) expression in cleavage stage embryos. Additionally, 3′ mono- and oligoadenylation of miRNAs is markedly increased in zygotes. We hypothesize that this may modulate the function or stability of maternal miRNAs, some of which are retained throughout the first cell divisions in embryos. This study is the first of its kind elucidating the dynamics of sRNA expression and miRNA modification along a continuous trajectory of early human development and provides a valuable data set for in-depth interpretative analyses.
Collapse
|
15
|
Acuña-González RJ, Olvera-Valencia M, López-Canales JS, Lozano-Cuenca J, Osorio-Caballero M, Flores-Herrera H. MiR-191-5p is upregulated in culture media of implanted human embryo on day fifth of development. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:109. [PMID: 34256783 PMCID: PMC8278618 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00786-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morphological features are the most common criteria used to select human embryos for transfer to a receptive uterine cavity. However, such characteristics are not valid for embryos in cellular arrest. Even aneuploid embryos can have normal morphology, and some euploid embryos have aberrant morphology. The aim of this study was to quantify the expression profile of hsa-miR-21-3p, -24-1-5p, -191-5p, and -372-5p in culture media on day 5 of in vitro embryo development, and compare the profiles of two groups of media classified by outcome: successful (n = 25) or unsuccessful (n = 25) implantation pregnancy. METHODS Fifty patients were accepted in the Department of Reproductive Biology of a Hospital in México City, based on the Institutional inclusion criteria for in vitro fertilization. Embryos were transferred to the women on day 5 of cultivation, and the culture media were collected. RNA was isolated from each culture medium with TRIzol reagent, and microRNA (miRNA) expression was detected through RT-PCR with specific primers. Expression bands were quantified by reading optical density. RESULTS There was a 5.2-fold greater expression of hsa-miR-191-5p in the pregnancy-related culture media (p ≤ 0.001) and a 1.6-fold greater level of hsa-miR-24-1-5p (p = 0.043) in the media corresponding to non-pregnant women. No significant difference existed between the two groups hsa-miR-21-3p (p = 0.38) or hsa-miR-372-5p (p = 0.41). CONCLUSIONS Regarding adequate in vitro embryo development, hsa-miR-191-5p could possibly represent a positive biomarker, while has-miR-24-1-5p may indicate poor prognosis. This former miRNA modulates IGF2BP-1 and IGF2R, associated with the implantation window. On the other hand, hsa-miR-24-1-5p may be related to a poor prognosis of human embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Josué Acuña-González
- Department of Immunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, México
- Department of Biología de la Reproducción, INPerIER, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Mercedes Olvera-Valencia
- Department of Immunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Jair Lozano-Cuenca
- Department of Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, INPerIER, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Héctor Flores-Herrera
- Department of Immunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes" (INPerIER), Ciudad de México, México.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cuthbert JM, Russell SJ, Polejaeva IA, Meng Q, White KL, Benninghoff AD. Dynamics of small non-coding RNAs in bovine scNT embryos through the maternal-to-embryonic transition. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:918-933. [PMID: 34086842 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficiency of somatic cell nuclear transfer (scNT) for production of viable offspring is relatively low as compared to in vitro fertilization (IVF), presumably due to deficiencies in epigenetic reprogramming of the donor cell genome. Such defects may also involve the population of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), which are important during early embryonic development. The objective of this study was to examine dynamic changes in relative abundance of sncRNAs during the maternal-to embryonic transition (MET) in bovine embryos produced by scNT as compared to IVF by using RNA sequencing. When comparing populations of miRNA in scNT versus IVF embryos, only miR-2340, miR-345, and miR34a were differentially expressed in morulae, though many more miRNAs were differentially expressed when comparing across developmental stages. Also of interest, distinct populations of piwi-interacting like RNAs (pilRNAs) were identified in bovine embryos prior to and during embryonic genome activation (EGA) as compared bovine embryos post EGA and differentiated cells. Overall, sncRNA sequencing analysis of preimplantation embryos revealed largely similar profiles of sncRNAs for IVF and scNT embryos at the 2-cell, 8-cell, morula and blastocyst stages of development. However, these sncRNA profiles, including miRNA, piRNA and tRNA fragments, were notably distinct prior to and after completion of the MET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn M Cuthbert
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Stewart J Russell
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay St. #1100, Toronto, M5G 1N8, Canada
| | - Irina A Polejaeva
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Qinggang Meng
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Kenneth L White
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Abby D Benninghoff
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Non-coding RNAs and lipids mediate the function of extracellular vesicles in cancer cross-talk. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 74:121-133. [PMID: 34033894 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Research on extracellular vesicles (EVs) has been expanded, especially in the field of cancer. The cargoes in EVs, especially those in small EVs such as exosomes include microRNAs (miRNAs), mRNA, proteins, and lipids, are assumed to work cooperatively in the tumor microenvironment. In 2007, it was reported that miRNAs were abundant among the non-coding RNAs present in exosomes. Since then, many studies have investigated the functions of miRNAs and have tried to apply these molecules to aid in the diagnosis of cancer. Accordingly, many reviews of non-coding RNAs in EVs have been published for miRNAs. This review focuses on relatively new cargoes, covering long noncoding (lnc) RNAs, circular RNAs, and repeat RNAs, among non-coding RNAs. These RNAs, regardless of EV or cell type, have newly emerged due to the innovation of sequencing technology. The poor conservation, low quantity, and technical difficulty in detecting these RNA types have made it difficult to elucidate their functions and expression patterns. We herein summarize a limited number of studies. Although lipids are major components of EVs, current research on EVs focuses on miRNA and protein biology, while the roles of lipids in exosomes have not drawn attention. However, several recent studies revealed that phospholipids, which are components of the EV membrane, play important roles in the intercommunication between cells and in the generation of lipid mediators. Here, we review the reported roles of these molecules, and describe their potential in cancer biology.
Collapse
|
18
|
Chukrallah LG, Badrinath A, Seltzer K, Snyder EM. Of rodents and ruminants: a comparison of small noncoding RNA requirements in mouse and bovine reproduction. J Anim Sci 2021; 99:6156131. [PMID: 33677580 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ruminants are major producers of meat and milk, thus managing their reproductive potential is a key element in cost-effective, safe, and efficient food production. Of particular concern, defects in male germ cells and female germ cells may lead to significantly reduced live births relative to fertilization. However, the underlying molecular drivers of these defects are unclear. Small noncoding RNAs, such as piRNAs and miRNAs, are known to be important regulators of germ-cell physiology in mouse (the best-studied mammalian model organism) and emerging evidence suggests that this is also the case in a range of ruminant species, in particular bovine. Similarities exist between mouse and bovids, especially in the case of meiotic and postmeiotic male germ cells. However, fundamental differences in small RNA abundance and metabolism between these species have been observed in the female germ cell, differences that likely have profound impacts on their physiology. Further, parentally derived small noncoding RNAs are known to influence early embryos and significant species-specific differences in germ-cell born small noncoding RNAs have been observed. These findings demonstrate the mouse to be an imperfect model for understanding germ-cell small noncoding RNA biology in ruminants and highlight the need to increase research efforts in this underappreciated aspect of animal reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aditi Badrinath
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Kelly Seltzer
- Department of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ou-Yang H, Wu SC, Sung LY, Yang SH, Yang SH, Chong KY, Chen CM. STAT3 Is an Upstream Regulator of Granzyme G in the Maternal-To-Zygotic Transition of Mouse Embryos. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010460. [PMID: 33466434 PMCID: PMC7796490 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT), which controls maternal signaling to synthesize zygotic gene products, promotes the preimplantation development of mouse zygotes to the two-cell stage. Our previous study reported that mouse granzyme g (Gzmg), a serine-type protease, is required for the MZT. In this study, we further identified the maternal factors that regulate the Gzmg promoter activity in the zygote to the two-cell stage of mouse embryos. A full-length Gzmg promoter from mouse genomic DNA, FL-pGzmg (−1696~+28 nt), was cloned, and four deletion constructs of this Gzmg promoter, Δ1-pGzmg (−1369~+28 nt), Δ2-pGzmg (−939~+28 nt), Δ3-pGzmg (−711~+28 nt) and Δ4-pGzmg (−417~+28 nt), were subsequently generated. Different-sized Gzmg promoters were used to perform promoter assays of mouse zygotes and two-cell stage embryos. The results showed that Δ4-pGzmg promoted the highest expression level of the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) reporter in the zygotes and two-cell embryos. The data suggested that time-specific transcription factors upregulated Gzmg by binding cis-elements in the −417~+28-nt Gzmg promoter region. According to the results of the promoter assay, the transcription factor binding sites were predicted and analyzed with the JASPAR database, and two transcription factors, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and GA-binding protein alpha (GABPα), were identified. Furthermore, STAT3 and GABPα are expressed and located in zygote pronuclei and two-cell nuclei were confirmed by immunofluorescence staining; however, only STAT3 was recruited to the mouse zygote pronuclei and two-cell nuclei injected with the Δ4-pGzmg reporter construct. These data indicated that STAT3 is a maternal transcription factor and may upregulate Gzmg to promote the MZT. Furthermore, treatment with a STAT3 inhibitor, S3I-201, caused mouse embryonic arrest at the zygote and two-cell stages. These results suggest that STAT3, a maternal protein, is a critical transcription factor and regulates Gzmg transcription activity in preimplantation mouse embryos. It plays an important role in the maternal-to-zygotic transition during early embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Ou-Yang
- Department of Life Sciences, and Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (H.O.-Y.); (S.-H.Y.)
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
| | - Shinn-Chih Wu
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
| | - Li-Ying Sung
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
| | - Shiao-Hsuan Yang
- Department of Life Sciences, and Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (H.O.-Y.); (S.-H.Y.)
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua 515, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hsun Yang
- Department of Physiology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan;
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Kowit-Yu Chong
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mu Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, and Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (H.O.-Y.); (S.-H.Y.)
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, and Rong-Hsing Translational Medicine Research Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-4-22856309
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hawke DC, Watson AJ, Betts DH. Extracellular vesicles, microRNA and the preimplantation embryo: non-invasive clues of embryo well-being. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:39-54. [PMID: 33303367 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Elective single embryo transfer is rapidly becoming the standard of care in assisted reproductive technology for patients under the age of 35 years with a good prognosis. Clinical pregnancy rates have become increasingly dependent on the selection of a single viable embryo for transfer, and diagnostic techniques facilitating this selection continue to develop. Current progress in elucidating the extracellular vesicle and microRNA components of the embryonic secretome is reviewed, and the potential for these findings to improve clinical embryo selection discussed. Key results have shown that extracellular vesicles and microRNAs are rapidly detectable constituents of the embryonic secretome. Evidence suggests that the vesicular population is largely exosomal in nature, secreted at all stages of preimplantation development and capable of traversing the zona pellucida. Both extracellular vesicle and microRNA concentrations within the secretome are elevated for blastocysts with diminished developmental competence, as indicated either by degeneracy or implantation failure, whereas studies have yet to firmly correlate individual microRNA sequences with pregnancy outcome. These emerging correlations support the viability of extracellular vesicles and microRNAs as the basis for a new diagnostic test to supplement or replace morphokinetic assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Connor Hawke
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute; Lawson Health Research Institute, London Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew John Watson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute; Lawson Health Research Institute, London Ontario, Canada
| | - Dean Harvey Betts
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute; Lawson Health Research Institute, London Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Marrocco J, Einhorn NR, McEwen BS. Environmental epigenetics of sex differences in the brain. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2020; 175:209-220. [PMID: 33008526 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64123-6.00015-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Experiences throughout the life course lead to unique phenotypes even among those with the same genotype. Genotype sets the substrate on which physiologic processes, which communicate with the brain, mediate the effects of life experiences via epigenetics. Epigenetics modify the expression of genes in the brain and body in response to circulating hormones and other mediators, which are activated to facilitate survival responses through a process called allostasis. Epigenetic signatures can even be inherited, resulting in transgenerational effects. This chapter addresses epigenetics in the context of sex differences, discussing the intersection between genetics and gonadal hormones and their effect in the brain at discrete developmental periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Marrocco
- Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Nathan R Einhorn
- Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bruce S McEwen
- Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hua R, Wang Y, Lian W, Li W, Xi Y, Xue S, Kang T, Lei M. Small RNA-seq analysis of extracellular vesicles from porcine uterine flushing fluids during peri-implantation. Gene 2020; 766:145117. [PMID: 32920039 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular vesicles (EVs) of uterine flushing fluids (UFs) mediate intrauterine communication between conceptus and uterus in pigs. The small RNAs of UFs-EVs are widely recognized as important factors that influence embryonic implantation. However, small RNAs expression profiles of porcine UFs-EVs during peri-implantation are still unknown. In this study, cup-shaped EVs of porcine UFs on days 10 (D10), 13 (D13) and 18 (D18) of pregnancy were isolated and characterized. The expression of small RNAs in these EVs was comprehensively profiled through sequencing. A total of 152 known microRNAs (miRNAs), 43 novel miRNAs, 6248 known Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and 110 novel piRNAs were identified. Among these small RNAs, RT-qRCR results indicated that ssc-let-7f-5p, ssc-let-7i-5p and ssc-let-7g were differentially expressed during the three stages. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the miRNAs differentially expressed in the three comparisons (D10 vs D13, D13 vs D18 and D10 vs D18) were involved in important processes and pathways related to immunization, endometrial receptivity and embryo development, which play important roles in embryonic implantation. Our results reveal that EVs from porcine UFs contain various small RNAs with potentially vital effects on implantation. This research also provides resources for studies of miRNAs and piRNAs in the cross-talk between embryo and endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renwu Hua
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Yueying Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jining NO. 1 People's Hospital, Jining 272000, China
| | - Weisi Lian
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Wenchao Li
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Yu Xi
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Songyi Xue
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Tingting Kang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Minggang Lei
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430000, China; National Engineering Research Center for Livestock, Wuhan 430000, China; The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, 430000 Wuhan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cullen H, Schorn AJ. Endogenous Retroviruses Walk a Fine Line between Priming and Silencing. Viruses 2020; 12:v12080792. [PMID: 32718022 PMCID: PMC7472051 DOI: 10.3390/v12080792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) in mammals are closely related to infectious retroviruses and utilize host tRNAs as a primer for reverse transcription and replication, a hallmark of long terminal repeat (LTR) retroelements. Their dependency on tRNA makes these elements vulnerable to targeting by small RNAs derived from the 3′-end of mature tRNAs (3′-tRFs), which are highly expressed during epigenetic reprogramming and potentially protect many tissues in eukaryotes. Here, we review some key functions of ERV reprogramming during mouse and human development and discuss how small RNA-mediated silencing maintains genome stability when ERVs are temporarily released from heterochromatin repression. In particular, we take a closer look at the tRNA primer binding sites (PBS) of two highly active ERV families in mice and their sequence variation that is shaped by the conflict of successful tRNA priming for replication versus evasion of silencing by 3′-tRFs.
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang J, Huang J, Shi G. Retrotransposons in pluripotent stem cells. CELL REGENERATION 2020; 9:4. [PMID: 32588192 PMCID: PMC7306833 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-020-00046-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Transposable elements constitute about half of the mammalian genome, and can be divided into two classes: the class I (retrotransposons) and the class II (DNA transposons). A few hundred types of retrotransposons, which are dynamic and stage specific, have been annotated. The copy numbers and genomic locations are significantly varied in species. Retrotransposons are active in germ cells, early embryos and pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) correlated with low levels of DNA methylation in epigenetic regulation. Some key pluripotency transcriptional factors (such as OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG) bind retrotransposons and regulate their activities in PSCs, suggesting a vital role of retrotransposons in pluripotency maintenance and self-renewal. In response to retrotransposons transposition, cells employ a number of silencing mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and histone modification. This review summarizes expression patterns, functions, and regulation of retrotransposons in PSCs and early embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Wang
- School of Life Sciences, SunYat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Junjiu Huang
- School of Life Sciences, SunYat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, School of Life Sciences and the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China.
| | - Guang Shi
- School of Life Sciences, SunYat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Cuthbert JM, Russell SJ, White KL, Benninghoff AD. The maternal-to-zygotic transition in bovine in vitro-fertilized embryos is associated with marked changes in small non-coding RNAs†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:331-350. [PMID: 30165428 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) have been reported to be important during early embryo development. However, a comprehensive assessment of the inventory of sncRNAs during the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT) has not been performed in an animal model that better represents the sncRNA biogenesis pathway in human oocytes and embryos. The objective of this study was to examine dynamic changes in expression of sncRNAs during the MZT in bovine embryos produced by in vitro fertilization (IVF), which occurs at the 8-cell stage. An unbiased, discovery-based approach was employed using small RNAseq to profile sncRNAs in bovine oocytes, 8-cell stage embryos and blastocyst stage embryos followed by network and ontology analyses to explore the functional relevance of differentially expressed micro-RNAS (miRNAs). The relative abundance of miRNAs was markedly higher in 8-cell stage embryos compared to oocytes or blastocyst stage embryos. This shift in miRNA population was largely associated with upregulation of miRNAs predicted to target genes involved in the biological processes of cell development, cell division, Wnt signaling, and pluripotency, among others. Distinct populations of piwi-interacting-like RNAs (pilRNAs) were identified in bovine oocytes and blastocyst stage embryos, though pilRNAs were nearly absent in 8-cell stage embryos. Also, small nucleolar RNAs were highly expressed in 8-cell stage embryos. Overall, these data reveal a strong dynamic shift in the relative abundance of sncRNAs associated with the MZT in bovine oocytes and embryos, suggesting that these molecules may play important roles in the shift from maternal to zygotic control of gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn M Cuthbert
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | | | - Kenneth L White
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| | - Abby D Benninghoff
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Franasiak J. Microribonucleic acids in sperm and spent culture media: a new direction in predictive diagnostics or another disappointment? Fertil Steril 2020; 113:929-930. [PMID: 32204873 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Franasiak
- IVI-RMA America, Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, New Jersey and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gedda MR, Babele PK, Zahra K, Madhukar P. Epigenetic Aspects of Engineered Nanomaterials: Is the Collateral Damage Inevitable? Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:228. [PMID: 31616663 PMCID: PMC6763616 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The extensive application of engineered nanomaterial (ENM) in various fields increases the possibilities of human exposure, thus imposing a huge risk of nanotoxicity. Hence, there is an urgent need for a detailed risk assessment of these ENMs in response to their toxicological profiling, predominantly in biomedical and biosensor settings. Numerous "toxico-omics" studies have been conducted on ENMs, however, a specific "risk assessment paradigm" dealing with the epigenetic modulations in humans owing to the exposure of these modern-day toxicants has not been defined yet. This review aims to address the critical aspects that are currently preventing the formation of a suitable risk assessment approach for/against ENM exposure and pointing out those researches, which may help to develop and implement effective guidance for nano-risk assessment. Literature relating to physicochemical characterization and toxicological behavior of ENMs were analyzed, and exposure assessment strategies were explored in order to extrapolate opportunities, challenges, and criticisms in the establishment of a baseline for the risk assessment paradigm of ENMs exposure. Various challenges, such as uncertainty in the relation of the physicochemical properties and ENM toxicity, the complexity of the dose-response relationships resulting in difficulty in its extrapolation and measurement of ENM exposure levels emerged as issues in the establishment of a traditional risk assessment. Such an appropriate risk assessment approach will provide adequate estimates of ENM exposure risks and will serve as a guideline for appropriate risk communication and management strategies aiming for the protection and the safety of humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjuna Rao Gedda
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Piyoosh Kumar Babele
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Kulsoom Zahra
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Prasoon Madhukar
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Germ cell-mediated mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 97:116-122. [PMID: 31404658 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
It is well established that lifestyle and other environmental factors have the potential to shape our own health and future. Research from the last two decades, however, provides mounting evidence that parental exposures or experiences such as dietary challenges, toxin exposure, or stress can impact the health and future of our offspring. There are indications that both the paternal and maternal germline are able to store information of the parental environment and pass certain information on to their progeny. These intergenerational effects are mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. This review summarizes and discusses insights into germline epigenetic plasticity caused by environmental stimuli and how such alterations are transmitted to induce a stable phenotype in the offspring.
Collapse
|
29
|
Single-cell CAS-seq reveals a class of short PIWI-interacting RNAs in human oocytes. Nat Commun 2019; 10:3389. [PMID: 31358756 PMCID: PMC6662892 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11312-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Small RNAs have important functions. However, small RNAs in primate oocytes remain unexplored. Herein, we develop CAS-seq, a single-cell small RNA sequencing method, and profile the small RNAs in human oocytes and embryos. We discover a class of ~20-nt small RNAs that are predominantly expressed in human and monkey oocytes, but not in mouse oocytes. They are specifically associated with HIWI3 (PIWIL3), whereas significantly shorter than the commonly known PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), designated as oocyte short piRNAs (os-piRNAs). Notably, the os-piRNAs in human oocytes lack 2’-O-methylation at the 3’ end, a hallmark of the classic piRNAs. In addition, the os-piRNAs have a strong 1U/10 A bias and are enriched on the antisense strands of recently evolved transposable elements (TEs), indicating the potential function of silencing TEs by cleavage. Therefore, our study has identified an oocyte-specific piRNA family with distinct features and provides valuable resources for studying small RNAs in primate oocytes. PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are ~25–33 nt small RNAs expressed in animal germ cells. Here, the authors develop a single-cell small RNA sequencing method and report that a class of ~20-nt piRNAs lacking 3′ end 2′-O-methylation are associated with PIWIL3 protein and predominantly expressed in human and monkey oocytes.
Collapse
|
30
|
Vastenhouw NL, Cao WX, Lipshitz HD. The maternal-to-zygotic transition revisited. Development 2019; 146:146/11/dev161471. [PMID: 31189646 DOI: 10.1242/dev.161471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The development of animal embryos is initially directed by maternal gene products. Then, during the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT), developmental control is handed to the zygotic genome. Extensive research in both vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms has revealed that the MZT can be subdivided into two phases, during which very different modes of gene regulation are implemented: initially, regulation is exclusively post-transcriptional and post-translational, following which gradual activation of the zygotic genome leads to predominance of transcriptional regulation. These changes in the gene expression program of embryos are precisely controlled and highly interconnected. Here, we review current understanding of the mechanisms that underlie handover of developmental control during the MZT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadine L Vastenhouw
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Wen Xi Cao
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Howard D Lipshitz
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1M1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Synthesis, Characterization, and Application of Poly(4,4'-Cyclohexylidene Bisphenol Oxalate) for Solid-Phase Extraction of DNA. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:7064073. [PMID: 30868072 PMCID: PMC6379882 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7064073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The present study has synthesized poly(4,4'-cyclohexylidene bisphenol oxalate) by the condensation of oxalyl chloride with 4,4'-cyclohexylidene bisphenol, where its efficacy was tested for the solid-phase extraction of DNA. The synthesized polymer in the form of a white powder was characterized by FTIR, TGA-DTG, SEM, and BET analysis. The study utilized solid-phase application of the resulting polymer to extract DNA. The analysis of results provided the information that the extraction efficiency is a strong dependent of polymer amount and binding buffer type. Among the three types of buffers tested, the GuHCl buffer produced the most satisfactory results in terms of yield and efficiency of extraction. Moreover, the absorbance ratio of A260/A280 in all of the samples varied from 1.682 to 1.491, thereby confirming the capability of poly(4,4'-cyclohexylidene bisphenol oxalate) to elute pure DNA. The results demonstrated an increased DNA binding capacity with respect to increased percentage of the polymer. The study has concluded that poly(bisphenol Z oxalate) can be applied as one of the potential candidates for the high efficiency extraction of DNA by means of a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach compared to the other traditional solid-phase methods.
Collapse
|
32
|
Wang JL, Zhang C, Liu B, Huang XM, Dai JG, Tian JH, Gao JM. Function of berberine on porcine in vitro fertilization embryo development and differential expression analysis of microRNAs. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:520-530. [PMID: 30578596 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The effect of berberine (Ber) on in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryo development in pigs and the associated differential expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the embryo were investigated. NCSU-23 embryonic culture medium was used for a control group, while NCSU-23 embryonic culture medium added with Ber was used for a Ber group. The embryo development rates in these groups were determined, and the zygotes, 4- and 8-cell embryos, and blastocysts were collected for cDNA microarray analysis. The development rates of 2-, 4-, 8-cell embryos and blastocysts were significantly higher in the Ber group than those in the control group (p < 0.01). The differentially expressed miRNAs in the 8-cell versus the 4-cell stage in control group as well as in the 8-cell Ber group versus the 8-cell control group overlapped, and it was found that nine miRNAs were commonly upregulated and two of them were downregulated, while there was no overlap among the other groups. The target genes of Ber-regulated miRNAs at the 8-cell stage were mainly associated with the molecular pathway of nucleic acid and protein synthesis. These findings suggest that Ber may regulate the expression of miRNAs at the 8-cell stage, which is beneficial to provide material reserves for the maternal to zygote transition of porcine embryos, thereby increasing the porcine IVF embryo development rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Li Wang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Meng Huang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Ge Dai
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Hui Tian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Ming Gao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Gad A, Nemcova L, Murin M, Kanka J, Laurincik J, Benc M, Pendovski L, Prochazka R. microRNA expression profile in porcine oocytes with different developmental competence derived from large or small follicles. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:426-439. [PMID: 30756429 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte developmental competence is acquired during folliculogenesis and regulated by complex molecular mechanisms. Several molecules are involved in these mechanisms, including microRNAs (miRNAs) that are essential for oocyte-specific processes throughout the development. The objective of this study was to identify the expression profile of miRNAs in porcine oocytes derived from follicles of different sizes using RNA deep sequencing. Oocytes were aspirated from large (LO; 3-6 mm) or small (SO; 1.5-1.9 mm) follicles and tested for developmental competence and chromatin configurations. Small RNA libraries were constructed from both groups and then sequenced in an Illumina NextSeq. 500. Oocytes from the LO group exhibited higher developmental competence and different chromatin configuration compared with oocytes from the SO group. In total, 167 and 162 known miRNAs were detected in the LO and SO groups, respectively. MiR-205, miR-16, miR-148a-3p, and miR-125b were among the top 10 highly expressed miRNAs in both groups. Eight miRNAs were differentially expressed (DE) between both groups. Target gene prediction and pathway analysis revealed 46 pathways that were enriched with miRNA-target genes. The oocyte meiosis pathway and signaling pathways including FoxO, PI3K-Akt, and cAMP were predictably targeted by DE miRNAs. These results give more insights into the potential role of miRNAs in regulating the oocyte development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Gad
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.,Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Lucie Nemcova
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Matej Murin
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Kanka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jozef Laurincik
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.,Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Michal Benc
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic.,Biology of Reproduction Department, Institute of Animal Science, Prague, Uhrineves, Czech Republic
| | - Lazo Pendovski
- Department of Functional Morphology, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Republic of Macedonia
| | - Radek Prochazka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Bodak M, Yu J, Ciaudo C. Regulation of LINE-1 Elements by miR-128 Is Not Conserved in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells. Front Genet 2018; 9:683. [PMID: 30619491 PMCID: PMC6306448 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Bodak
- Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, IMHS, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, IMHS, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Constance Ciaudo
- Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, IMHS, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Calcino AD, Fernandez-Valverde SL, Taft RJ, Degnan BM. Diverse RNA interference strategies in early-branching metazoans. BMC Evol Biol 2018; 18:160. [PMID: 30382896 PMCID: PMC6211395 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-018-1274-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro RNAs (miRNAs) and piwi interacting RNAs (piRNAs), along with the more ancient eukaryotic endogenous small interfering RNAs (endo-siRNAs) constitute the principal components of the RNA interference (RNAi) repertoire of most animals. RNAi in non-bilaterians - sponges, ctenophores, placozoans and cnidarians - appears to be more diverse than that of bilaterians, and includes structurally variable miRNAs in sponges, an enormous number of piRNAs in cnidarians and the absence of miRNAs in ctenophores and placozoans. RESULTS Here we identify thousands of endo-siRNAs and piRNAs from the sponge Amphimedon queenslandica, the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi and the cnidarian Nematostella vectensis using a computational approach that clusters mapped small RNA sequences and annotates each cluster based on the read length and relative abundance of the constituent reads. This approach was validated on 11 small RNA libraries in Drosophila melanogaster, demonstrating the successful annotation of RNAi-associated loci with properties consistent with previous reports. In the non-bilaterians we uncover seven new miRNAs from Amphimedon and four from Nematostella as well as sub-populations of candidate cis-natural antisense transcript (cis-NAT) endo-siRNAs. We confirmed the absence of miRNAs in Mnemiopsis but detected an abundance of endo-siRNAs in this ctenophore. Analysis of putative piRNA structure suggests that conserved localised secondary structures in primary transcripts may be important for the production of mature piRNAs in Amphimedon and Nematostella, as is also the case for endo-siRNAs. CONCLUSION Together, these findings suggest that the last common ancestor of extant animals did not have the entrained RNAi system that typifies bilaterians. Instead it appears that bilaterians, cnidarians, ctenophores and sponges express unique repertoires and combinations of miRNAs, piRNAs and endo-siRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Calcino
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.,Present address: Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 1, 4A-1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Selene L Fernandez-Valverde
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.,Present address: CONACYT, Laboratorio Nacional de Genómica para la Biodiversidad (Langebio). CINVESTAV, Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Ryan J Taft
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.,Illumina Inc, San Diego, California, 92122, USA
| | - Bernard M Degnan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Rezapour S, Shiravand M, Mardani M. Epigenetic changes due to physical activity. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2018; 65:761-767. [PMID: 30144174 DOI: 10.1002/bab.1689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
One of the epigenetic-modifying factors is regular and continuous physical activity. This article attempts to investigate the effects of physical activity and exercise on changes in histone proteins and gene expression, as well as the effect of these exercises on the prevention of certain cancers and the ejection of age-related illnesses and cellular oxidation interactions. All of this is due to epigenetic changes and gene expression. Most studies have reported the positive effects of regular exercises on the expression of histone proteins. DNA methylation and the prevention of certain diseases such as cancer and respiratory diseases, caused by antioxidative interactions that occur more often in the elderly, have been studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Rezapour
- Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Mustafa Shiravand
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Gilan University, Gilan, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Mardani
- Nutritional Health Research Center, Health and Nutrition Department, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhou L, Lim MYT, Kaur P, Saj A, Bortolamiol-Becet D, Gopal V, Tolwinski N, Tucker-Kellogg G, Okamura K. Importance of miRNA stability and alternative primary miRNA isoforms in gene regulation during Drosophila development. eLife 2018; 7:e38389. [PMID: 30024380 PMCID: PMC6066331 DOI: 10.7554/elife.38389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature microRNAs (miRNAs) are processed from primary transcripts (pri-miRNAs), and their expression is controlled at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. However, how regulation at multiple levels achieves precise control remains elusive. Using published and new datasets, we profile a time course of mature and pri-miRNAs in Drosophila embryos and reveal the dynamics of miRNA production and degradation as well as dynamic changes in pri-miRNA isoform selection. We found that 5' nucleotides influence stability of mature miRNAs. Furthermore, distinct half-lives of miRNAs from the mir-309 cluster shape their temporal expression patterns, and the importance of rapid degradation of the miRNAs in gene regulation is detected as distinct evolutionary signatures at the target sites in the transcriptome. Finally, we show that rapid degradation of miR-3/-309 may be important for regulation of the planar cell polarity pathway component Vang. Altogether, the results suggest that complex mechanisms regulate miRNA expression to support normal development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhou
- Temasek Life Sciences LaboratorySingaporeSingapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of ScienceNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Mandy Yu Theng Lim
- Temasek Life Sciences LaboratorySingaporeSingapore
- School of Biological SciencesNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| | - Prameet Kaur
- Division of ScienceYale-NUS CollegeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Abil Saj
- Cancer Therapeutics and Stratified OncologyGenome Institute of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | | | - Vikneswaran Gopal
- Department of Statistics and Applied Probability, Faculty of ScienceNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Nicholas Tolwinski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of ScienceNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Division of ScienceYale-NUS CollegeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Greg Tucker-Kellogg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of ScienceNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Katsutomo Okamura
- Temasek Life Sciences LaboratorySingaporeSingapore
- School of Biological SciencesNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gonzalez-Munoz E, Cibelli JB. Somatic Cell Reprogramming Informed by the Oocyte. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:871-887. [DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Gonzalez-Munoz
- LARCEL, Andalusian Laboratory of Cell Reprogramming (LARCel), Andalusian Center for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology-BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, (CIBER-BBN), Málaga, Spain
| | - Jose B. Cibelli
- LARCEL, Andalusian Laboratory of Cell Reprogramming (LARCel), Andalusian Center for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology-BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Chen D, Zhang Z, Chen B, Ji D, Hao Y, Zhou P, Wei Z, Cao Y. Altered microRNA and Piwi-interacting RNA profiles in cumulus cells from patients with diminished ovarian reserve. Biol Reprod 2018. [PMID: 28651359 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is defined as decreased number or quality of follicles and oocytes in a woman at childbearing age. It is estimated that up to 10% of women in the general population may suffer from DOR. This study aims to comprehensively characterize microRNA (miRNA) and Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) expression profiles in cumulus cells of DOR patients. Cumulus cells were collected from 20 women of similar chronological age who received assisted reproductive technology treatment: 10 with DOR and 10 with normal ovarian reserve (NOR). The small RNAs were extracted from each sample and reverse transcribed. Deep sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were performed to identify the small noncoding RNA profiles. The rRNAs were the most abundant small RNA class in cumulus cells derived from human MII oocytes, following were miRNAs and tRNAs. Twenty-six piRNAs, 79 annotated miRNAs, and 5 novel miRNAs were identified differentially expressed. In DOR group, the chromosomal strand bias patterns of piRNAs on chromosome 1, 3, 5, and X were distinct from its counterpart in NOR group. The involved biological pathways from the putative target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched by using GO analysis and KEGG pathway annotations, and mTOR pathway and meiosis-associated biological processes were enriched. This study provided additional information on the dysfunctions of cumulus cells in patients with diminished ovarian reserve. Future investigations will involve the characterization of specific functional roles of noncoding small RNA in ovarian reserve regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Beili Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Dongmei Ji
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Bio-preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Epigenetic modifications in hyperhomocysteinemia: potential role in diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Oncotarget 2018; 9:12562-12590. [PMID: 29560091 PMCID: PMC5849155 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
To study Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy)-induced epigenetic modifications as potential mechanisms of blood retinal barrier (BRB) dysfunction, retinas isolated from three- week-old mice with elevated level of Homocysteine (Hcy) due to lack of the enzyme cystathionine β-synthase (cbs-/- , cbs+/- and cbs+/+ ), human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs), and human retinal pigmented epithelial cells (ARPE-19) treated with or without Hcy were evaluated for (1) histone deacetylases (HDAC), (2) DNA methylation (DNMT), and (3) miRNA analysis. Differentially expressed miRNAs in mice with HHcy were further compared with miRNA analysis of diabetic mice retinas (STZ) and miRNAs within the exosomes released from Hcy-treated RPEs. Differentially expressed miRNAs were further evaluated for predicted target genes and associated pathways using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. HHcy significantly increased HDAC and DNMT activity in HRECs, ARPE-19, and cbs mice retinas, whereas inhibition of HDAC and DNMT decreased Hcy-induced BRB dysfunction. MiRNA profiling detected 127 miRNAs in cbs+/- and 39 miRNAs in cbs-/- mice retinas, which were significantly differentially expressed compared to cbs+/+ . MiRNA pathway analysis showed their involvement in HDAC and DNMT activation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and oxidative stresses, inflammation, hypoxia, and angiogenesis pathways. Hcy-induced epigenetic modifications may be involved in retinopathies associated with HHcy, such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
Collapse
|
41
|
Zhang H, Liu J, Tai Y, Zhang X, Zhang J, Liu S, Lv J, Liu Z, Kong Q. Identification and characterization of L1-specific endo-siRNAs essential for early embryonic development in pig. Oncotarget 2017; 8:23167-23176. [PMID: 28423565 PMCID: PMC5410294 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) play important roles in RNA interference (RNAi). In addition to microRNA (miRNA) and Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA), one key member of sncRNAs group is endogenous small interfering RNA (endo-siRNA). Some studies do show the role of endo-siRNAs in Dicer and/or Ago mutants, however, the biological functions of specific endo-siRNAs remains mostly unanswered. In the study, we have performed a comparative analysis of endo-siRNAs present in porcine sperms, oocytes and zygotes, identified by deep sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Further, we observe a large amount of endo-siRNAs specific binding on ORF2 and 3′ UTR of porcine L1 (L1-siRNAs). And, 9 L1-siRNAs generated from a dsRNA formed between L1 transcript and a newly identified an antisense noncoding RNA was characterized. We show the L1-siRNAs regulate early embryonic development by inhibiting the activity of L1 retrotransposition. This work can contribute to understanding the functional role of abundant endo-siRNAs in embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhang
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| | - Jilong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou Province 510642, China
| | - Yurong Tai
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| | - Xiaolei Zhang
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| | - Jiaming Zhang
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| | - Shichao Liu
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| | - Jiawei Lv
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| | - Qingran Kong
- Laboratory of Embryo Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150030, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Long and small noncoding RNAs during oocyte-to-embryo transition in mammals. Biochem Soc Trans 2017; 45:1117-1124. [PMID: 28939692 DOI: 10.1042/bst20170033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte-to-embryo transition is a process during which an oocyte ovulates, is fertilized, and becomes a developing embryo. It involves the first major genome reprogramming event in life of an organism where gene expression, which gave rise to a differentiated oocyte, is remodeled in order to establish totipotency in blastomeres of an early embryo. This remodeling involves replacement of maternal RNAs with zygotic RNAs through maternal RNA degradation and zygotic genome activation. This review is focused on expression and function of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and small RNAs during oocyte-to-embryo transition in mammals. LncRNAs are an assorted rapidly evolving collection of RNAs, which have no apparent protein-coding capacity. Their biogenesis is similar to mRNAs including transcriptional control and post-transcriptional processing. Diverse molecular and biological roles were assigned to lncRNAs although most of them probably did not acquire a detectable biological role. Since some lncRNAs serve as precursors for small noncoding regulatory RNAs in RNA silencing pathways, both types of noncoding RNA are reviewed together.
Collapse
|
43
|
Kabayama Y, Toh H, Katanaya A, Sakurai T, Chuma S, Kuramochi-Miyagawa S, Saga Y, Nakano T, Sasaki H. Roles of MIWI, MILI and PLD6 in small RNA regulation in mouse growing oocytes. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:5387-5398. [PMID: 28115634 PMCID: PMC5435931 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The mouse PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway produces a class of 26–30-nucleotide (nt) small RNAs and is essential for spermatogenesis and retrotransposon repression. In oocytes, however, its regulation and function are poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the consequences of loss of piRNA-pathway components in growing oocytes. When MILI (or PIWIL2), a PIWI family member, was depleted by gene knockout, almost all piRNAs disappeared. This severe loss of piRNA was accompanied by an increase in transcripts derived from specific retrotransposons, especially IAPs. MIWI (or PIWIL1) depletion had a smaller effect. In oocytes lacking PLD6 (or ZUCCHINI or MITOPLD), a mitochondrial nuclease/phospholipase involved in piRNA biogenesis in male germ cells, the piRNA level was decreased to 50% compared to wild-type, a phenotype much milder than that in males. Since PLD6 is essential for the creation of the 5΄ ends of primary piRNAs in males, the presence of mature piRNA in PLD6-depleted oocytes suggests the presence of compensating enzymes. Furthermore, we identified novel 21–23-nt small RNAs, termed spiRNAs, possessing a 10-nt complementarity with piRNAs, which were produced dependent on MILI and independent of DICER. Our study revealed the differences in the biogenesis and function of the piRNA pathway between sexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Kabayama
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.,Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Hidehiro Toh
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Ami Katanaya
- Department of Development and Differentiation, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Takayuki Sakurai
- Division of Mammalian Development, Genetic Strains Research Center, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Chuma
- Department of Development and Differentiation, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Satomi Kuramochi-Miyagawa
- Department of Pathology, Medical school and Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yumiko Saga
- Division of Mammalian Development, Genetic Strains Research Center, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| | - Toru Nakano
- Department of Pathology, Medical school and Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Sasaki
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
MicroRNA Signaling in Embryo Development. BIOLOGY 2017; 6:biology6030034. [PMID: 28906477 PMCID: PMC5617922 DOI: 10.3390/biology6030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is essential for embryonic development and serves important roles in gametogenesis. miRNAs are secreted into the extracellular environment by the embryo during the preimplantation stage of development. Several cell types secrete miRNAs into biological fluids in the extracellular environment. These fluid-derived miRNAs have been shown to circulate the body. Stable transport is dependent on proper packaging of the miRNAs into extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes. These vesicles, which also contain RNA, DNA and proteins, are on the forefront of research on cell-to-cell communication. Interestingly, EVs have been identified in many reproductive fluids, such as uterine fluid, where their miRNA content is proposed to serve as a mechanism of crosstalk between the mother and conceptus. Here, we review the role of miRNAs in molecular signaling and discuss their transport during early embryo development and implantation.
Collapse
|
45
|
LTR-Retrotransposon Control by tRNA-Derived Small RNAs. Cell 2017; 170:61-71.e11. [PMID: 28666125 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2017.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2016] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Transposon reactivation is an inherent danger in cells that lose epigenetic silencing during developmental reprogramming. In the mouse, long terminal repeat (LTR)-retrotransposons, or endogenous retroviruses (ERV), account for most novel insertions and are expressed in the absence of histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation in preimplantation stem cells. We found abundant 18 nt tRNA-derived small RNA (tRF) in these cells and ubiquitously expressed 22 nt tRFs that include the 3' terminal CCA of mature tRNAs and target the tRNA primer binding site (PBS) essential for ERV reverse transcription. We show that the two most active ERV families, IAP and MusD/ETn, are major targets and are strongly inhibited by tRFs in retrotransposition assays. 22 nt tRFs post-transcriptionally silence coding-competent ERVs, while 18 nt tRFs specifically interfere with reverse transcription and retrotransposon mobility. The PBS offers a unique target to specifically inhibit LTR-retrotransposons, and tRF-targeting is a potentially highly conserved mechanism of small RNA-mediated transposon control.
Collapse
|
46
|
Inoue A, Jiang L, Lu F, Suzuki T, Zhang Y. Maternal H3K27me3 controls DNA methylation-independent imprinting. Nature 2017; 547:419-424. [PMID: 28723896 PMCID: PMC9674007 DOI: 10.1038/nature23262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm and oocytes have different epigenetic landscapes and are organized in different fashion. Following fertilization, the initially distinct parental epigenomes become largely equalized with the exception of certain loci including imprinting control regions (ICRs). How parental chromatin becomes equalized and how ICRs escape from this reprogramming is largely unknown. Here we profiled parental allele-specific DNase I hypersensitive sites (DHSs) in mouse zygotes and morula embryos, and investigated the epigenetic mechanisms underlying allelic DHSs. Integrated analyses of DNA methylome and H3K27me3 ChIP-seq data sets revealed 76 genes with paternal allele-specific DHSs that are devoid of DNA methylation but harbor maternal allele-specific H3K27me3. Interestingly, these genes are paternally expressed in preimplantation embryos, and ectopic removal of H3K27me3 induces maternal allele expression. H3K27me3-dependent imprinting is largely lost in the embryonic cell lineage, but at least 5 genes maintain their imprinting in the extra-embryonic cell lineage. The 5 genes include all previously identified DNA methylation-independent imprinted autosomal genes. Thus, our study identifies maternal H3K27me3 as a DNA methylation-independent imprinting mechanism.
Collapse
|
47
|
Guelfi G, Stefanetti V, De Luca S, Giontella A, Barile VL, Barbato O. Serum microRNAs in buffalo cows: Potential biomarkers of pregnancy. Res Vet Sci 2017. [PMID: 28628844 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
MiRNAs (microRNA) constitute a large family of single-stranded, non-coding small RNAs. Although the functions and target genes of most miRNAs are still unknown, it has been well established that they are involved in embryogenesis, organogenesis and neonatal birth. In recent decades, interest in buffalo breeding has largely increased worldwide thus focusing the attention on this species as a dairy purpose animal. Problems related to long calving interval, late puberty and seasonal anestrus hamper reproductive efficiency in this species. Early pregnancy diagnosis is important to shorten the calving interval and increase lifetime production on dairy animals. MicroRNAs have recently emerged as key molecules in fertilization of several species even though in buffalo, few previous studies have investigated miRNAs. The aim of this research was to identify the best miRNA reference in serum among miR-191, miR-25-3p, SNORD44, and SNORD48. Consequently, assess the expression levels of miR-103, miR-200b, miR-301a, miR-423-5p, miR-375, miR-451 and miR-452 involved in buffalo progesterone-maturation oocyte and pregnancy. Interestingly, we found that all the miRNAs analyzed at 40days after artificial insemination were differentially expressed among pregnant and non-pregnant buffalo. Our research may be a first step for gain further insight in the biological function of circulating miRNAs in this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Guelfi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy.
| | | | - Silvio De Luca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Giontella
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Vittoria Lucia Barile
- Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l'analisi dell'economia agraria (CREA), Animal Production Research Centre, Monterotondo, 00015, Rome, Italy
| | - Olimpia Barbato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Paces J, Nic M, Novotny T, Svoboda P. Literature review of baseline information to support the risk assessment of RNAi‐based GM plants. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [PMCID: PMC7163844 DOI: 10.2903/sp.efsa.2017.en-1246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Paces
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (IMG)
| | | | | | - Petr Svoboda
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (IMG)
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Bodak M, Cirera-Salinas D, Yu J, Ngondo RP, Ciaudo C. Dicer, a new regulator of pluripotency exit and LINE-1 elements in mouse embryonic stem cells. FEBS Open Bio 2017; 7:204-220. [PMID: 28174687 PMCID: PMC5292673 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.12174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A gene regulation network orchestrates processes ensuring the maintenance of cellular identity and genome integrity. Small RNAs generated by the RNAse III DICER have emerged as central players in this network. Moreover, deletion of Dicer in mice leads to early embryonic lethality. To better understand the underlying mechanisms leading to this phenotype, we generated Dicer‐deficient mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Their detailed characterization revealed an impaired differentiation potential, and incapacity to exit from the pluripotency state. We also observed a strong accumulation of LINE‐1 (L1s) transcripts, which was translated at protein level and led to an increased L1s retrotransposition. Our findings reveal Dicer as a new essential player that sustains mESCs self‐renewal and genome integrity by controlling L1s regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Bodak
- Department of Biology RNAi and Genome Integrity IMHS Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland; Life Science Zurich Graduate School Molecular Life Science Program University of Zurich Switzerland
| | - Daniel Cirera-Salinas
- Department of Biology RNAi and Genome Integrity IMHS Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Biology RNAi and Genome Integrity IMHS Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland; Life Science Zurich Graduate School Molecular and Translational Biomedicine Program University of Zurich Switzerland
| | - Richard P Ngondo
- Department of Biology RNAi and Genome Integrity IMHS Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Constance Ciaudo
- Department of Biology RNAi and Genome Integrity IMHS Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Lim MYT, Okamura K. Switches in Dicer Activity During Oogenesis and Early Development. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 63:325-351. [PMID: 28779324 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60855-6_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Dicer is a versatile protein regulating diverse biological processes via the production of multiple classes of small regulatory RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). In this chapter, we will discuss roles for Dicer in driving temporal changes in activity of individual small RNA classes to support oogenesis and early embryogenesis. Genetic strategies that perturb particular functions of Dicer family proteins, such as ablation of individual Dicer paralogs or their binding partners as well as introduction of point mutations to individual domains, allowed the dissection of Dicer functions in diverse small RNA pathways. Evolutionary conservation and divergence of the mechanisms highlight the importance of Dicer versatility in supporting rapid changes in gene expression during oogenesis and early development. Furthermore, we will discuss potential roles of Dicer in transgenerational inheritance of small RNA-mediated gene regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mandy Yu Theng Lim
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, 1 Research Link, Singapore, 117604, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Katsutomo Okamura
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, 1 Research Link, Singapore, 117604, Singapore.
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 639798, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|