1
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Schock EN, York JR, Li AP, Tu AY, LaBonne C. SoxB1 transcription factors are essential for initiating and maintaining neural plate border gene expression. Development 2024; 151:dev202693. [PMID: 38940470 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
SoxB1 transcription factors (Sox2/3) are well known for their role in early neural fate specification in the embryo, but little is known about functional roles for SoxB1 factors in non-neural ectodermal cell types, such as the neural plate border (NPB). Using Xenopus laevis, we set out to determine whether SoxB1 transcription factors have a regulatory function in NPB formation. Here, we show that SoxB1 factors are necessary for NPB formation, and that prolonged SoxB1 factor activity blocks the transition from a NPB to a neural crest state. Using ChIP-seq, we demonstrate that Sox3 is enriched upstream of NPB genes in early NPB cells and in blastula stem cells. Depletion of SoxB1 factors in blastula stem cells results in downregulation of NPB genes. Finally, we identify Pou5f3 factors as potential Sox3 partners in regulating the formation of the NPB and show that their combined activity is needed for normal NPB gene expression. Together, these data identify a role for SoxB1 factors in the establishment and maintenance of the NPB, in part through partnership with Pou5f3 factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth N Schock
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Joshua R York
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Austin P Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Ashlyn Y Tu
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Carole LaBonne
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- NSF-Simons National Institute for Theory and Mathematics in Biology, 875 N Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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2
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Khan AQ, Hasan A, Mir SS, Rashid K, Uddin S, Steinhoff M. Exploiting transcription factors to target EMT and cancer stem cells for tumor modulation and therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 100:1-16. [PMID: 38503384 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.03.002] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) are essential in controlling gene regulatory networks that determine cellular fate during embryogenesis and tumor development. TFs are the major players in promoting cancer stemness by regulating the function of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Understanding how TFs interact with their downstream targets for determining cell fate during embryogenesis and tumor development is a critical area of research. CSCs are increasingly recognized for their significance in tumorigenesis and patient prognosis, as they play a significant role in cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. However, traditional therapies have limited effectiveness in eliminating this subset of cells, allowing CSCs to persist and potentially form secondary tumors. Recent studies have revealed that cancer cells and tumors with CSC-like features also exhibit genes related to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT-associated transcription factors (EMT-TFs) like TWIST and Snail/Slug can upregulate EMT-related genes and reprogram cancer cells into a stem-like phenotype. Importantly, the regulation of EMT-TFs, particularly through post-translational modifications (PTMs), plays a significant role in cancer metastasis and the acquisition of stem cell-like features. PTMs, including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and SUMOylation, can alter the stability, localization, and activity of EMT-TFs, thereby modulating their ability to drive EMT and stemness properties in cancer cells. Although targeting EMT-TFs holds potential in tackling CSCs, current pharmacological approaches to do so directly are unavailable. Therefore, this review aims to explore the role of EMT- and CSC-TFs, their connection and impact in cellular development and cancer, emphasizing the potential of TF networks as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Q Khan
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Adria Hasan
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Snober S Mir
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Khalid Rashid
- Department of Urology,Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha 24144, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
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3
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Marelli E, Hughes J, Scotting PJ. SUMO-dependent transcriptional repression by Sox2 inhibits the proliferation of neural stem cells. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298818. [PMID: 38507426 PMCID: PMC10954124 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Sox2 is known for its roles in maintaining the stem cell state of embryonic stem cells and neural stem cells. In particular, it has been shown to slow the proliferation of these cell types. It is also known for its effects as an activating transcription factor. Despite this, analysis of published studies shows that it represses as many genes as it activates. Here, we identify a new set of target genes that Sox2 represses in neural stem cells. These genes are associated with centrosomes, centromeres and other aspects of cell cycle control. In addition, we show that SUMOylation of Sox2 is necessary for the repression of these genes and for its repressive effects on cell proliferation. Together, these data suggest that SUMO-dependent repression of this group of target genes is responsible for the role of Sox2 in regulating the proliferation of neural stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Marelli
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
| | - Jaime Hughes
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
| | - Paul J. Scotting
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
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4
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MacCarthy CM, Wu G, Malik V, Menuchin-Lasowski Y, Velychko T, Keshet G, Fan R, Bedzhov I, Church GM, Jauch R, Cojocaru V, Schöler HR, Velychko S. Highly cooperative chimeric super-SOX induces naive pluripotency across species. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:127-147.e9. [PMID: 38141611 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.11.010] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Our understanding of pluripotency remains limited: iPSC generation has only been established for a few model species, pluripotent stem cell lines exhibit inconsistent developmental potential, and germline transmission has only been demonstrated for mice and rats. By swapping structural elements between Sox2 and Sox17, we built a chimeric super-SOX factor, Sox2-17, that enhanced iPSC generation in five tested species: mouse, human, cynomolgus monkey, cow, and pig. A swap of alanine to valine at the interface between Sox2 and Oct4 delivered a gain of function by stabilizing Sox2/Oct4 dimerization on DNA, enabling generation of high-quality OSKM iPSCs capable of supporting the development of healthy all-iPSC mice. Sox2/Oct4 dimerization emerged as the core driver of naive pluripotency with its levels diminished upon priming. Transient overexpression of the SK cocktail (Sox+Klf4) restored the dimerization and boosted the developmental potential of pluripotent stem cells across species, providing a universal method for naive reset in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guangming Wu
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany; International Bio Island, Guangzhou, China; MingCeler Biotech, Guangzhou, China
| | - Vikas Malik
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Taras Velychko
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gal Keshet
- Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rui Fan
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Ivan Bedzhov
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - George M Church
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Wyss Institute, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ralf Jauch
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Vlad Cojocaru
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany; University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; STAR-UBB Institute, Babeş-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Hans R Schöler
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany.
| | - Sergiy Velychko
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Wyss Institute, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
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5
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Liu Z, Wong HM, Chen X, Lin J, Zhang S, Yan S, Wang F, Li X, Wong KC. MotifHub: Detection of trans-acting DNA motif group with probabilistic modeling algorithm. Comput Biol Med 2024; 168:107753. [PMID: 38039889 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107753] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trans-acting factors are of special importance in transcription regulation, which is a group of proteins that can directly or indirectly recognize or bind to the 8-12 bp core sequence of cis-acting elements and regulate the transcription efficiency of target genes. The progressive development in high-throughput chromatin capture technology (e.g., Hi-C) enables the identification of chromatin-interacting sequence groups where trans-acting DNA motif groups can be discovered. The problem difficulty lies in the combinatorial nature of DNA sequence pattern matching and its underlying sequence pattern search space. METHOD Here, we propose to develop MotifHub for trans-acting DNA motif group discovery on grouped sequences. Specifically, the main approach is to develop probabilistic modeling for accommodating the stochastic nature of DNA motif patterns. RESULTS Based on the modeling, we develop global sampling techniques based on EM and Gibbs sampling to address the global optimization challenge for model fitting with latent variables. The results reflect that our proposed approaches demonstrate promising performance with linear time complexities. CONCLUSION MotifHub is a novel algorithm considering the identification of both DNA co-binding motif groups and trans-acting TFs. Our study paves the way for identifying hub TFs of stem cell development (OCT4 and SOX2) and determining potential therapeutic targets of prostate cancer (FOXA1 and MYC). To ensure scientific reproducibility and long-term impact, its matrix-algebra-optimized source code is released at http://bioinfo.cs.cityu.edu.hk/MotifHub.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Liu
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hiu-Man Wong
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xingjian Chen
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jiecong Lin
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shixiong Zhang
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shankai Yan
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fuzhou Wang
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiangtao Li
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Ka-Chun Wong
- Department of Computer Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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6
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Cipriano A, Moqri M, Maybury-Lewis SY, Rogers-Hammond R, de Jong TA, Parker A, Rasouli S, Schöler HR, Sinclair DA, Sebastiano V. Mechanisms, pathways and strategies for rejuvenation through epigenetic reprogramming. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:14-26. [PMID: 38102454 PMCID: PMC11058000 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00539-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in efforts to ameliorate aging and the diseases it causes, with transient expression of nuclear reprogramming factors recently emerging as an intriguing approach. Expression of these factors, either systemically or in a tissue-specific manner, has been shown to combat age-related deterioration in mouse and human model systems at the cellular, tissue and organismal level. Here we discuss the current state of epigenetic rejuvenation strategies via partial reprogramming in both mouse and human models. For each classical reprogramming factor, we provide a brief description of its contribution to reprogramming and discuss additional factors or chemical strategies. We discuss what is known regarding chromatin remodeling and the molecular dynamics underlying rejuvenation, and, finally, we consider strategies to improve the practical uses of epigenetic reprogramming to treat aging and age-related diseases, focusing on the open questions and remaining challenges in this emerging field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cipriano
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mahdi Moqri
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Tineke Anna de Jong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Parker
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sajede Rasouli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hans Robert Schöler
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - David A Sinclair
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Vittorio Sebastiano
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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7
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Kondoh H. Enhancer Activation by Transcription Factors and Underlying Mechanisms. Results Probl Cell Differ 2024; 72:167-191. [PMID: 38509258 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-39027-2_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Enhancers are classified into two classes based on various criteria. Class I enhancers participate primarily in finely tuned cell-specific regulation, as exemplified by the neural enhancers discussed in Chap. 9 . They are activated by simultaneous binding of transcription factors (TFs) to adjacent sites in the core sequence and are marked by moderate levels of H3K27ac modification. Class II enhancers are activated by the reiterated binding of the same TFs at multiple sites and are marked by high levels of H3K27ac modification. Class II enhancers are exemplified by enhancers in the SCR downstream of the Sox2 gene, as also discussed in Chap. 9 . Both classes of enhancers activate transcription similarly with low selectivity toward the promoters.The genomic loci broadly covered by high-level H3K27ac modification were once dubbed "Super-enhancers," implying that they are densely packed enhancers with superpowers in gene regulation. However, marking with H3K27ac modification does not predict the enhancer activity of a sequence; a "Super enhancer" region includes a few ordinary Class II enhancers. Currently, the most reliable criterion for enhancer prediction is cross-species sequence conservation.The mechanism by which transcription factors find and stay on the target enhancer site remains elusive. Results from two approaches, single-molecule live imaging and kinetic analysis using FRAP, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisato Kondoh
- Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Biohistory Research Hall, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
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8
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Nair S, Ameen M, Sundaram L, Pampari A, Schreiber J, Balsubramani A, Wang YX, Burns D, Blau HM, Karakikes I, Wang KC, Kundaje A. Transcription factor stoichiometry, motif affinity and syntax regulate single-cell chromatin dynamics during fibroblast reprogramming to pluripotency. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.04.560808. [PMID: 37873116 PMCID: PMC10592962 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.04.560808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Ectopic expression of OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and MYC (OSKM) transforms differentiated cells into induced pluripotent stem cells. To refine our mechanistic understanding of reprogramming, especially during the early stages, we profiled chromatin accessibility and gene expression at single-cell resolution across a densely sampled time course of human fibroblast reprogramming. Using neural networks that map DNA sequence to ATAC-seq profiles at base-resolution, we annotated cell-state-specific predictive transcription factor (TF) motif syntax in regulatory elements, inferred affinity- and concentration-dependent dynamics of Tn5-bias corrected TF footprints, linked peaks to putative target genes, and elucidated rewiring of TF-to-gene cis-regulatory networks. Our models reveal that early in reprogramming, OSK, at supraphysiological concentrations, rapidly open transient regulatory elements by occupying non-canonical low-affinity binding sites. As OSK concentration falls, the accessibility of these transient elements decays as a function of motif affinity. We find that these OSK-dependent transient elements sequester the somatic TF AP-1. This redistribution is strongly associated with the silencing of fibroblast-specific genes within individual nuclei. Together, our integrated single-cell resource and models reveal insights into the cis-regulatory code of reprogramming at unprecedented resolution, connect TF stoichiometry and motif syntax to diversification of cell fate trajectories, and provide new perspectives on the dynamics and role of transient regulatory elements in somatic silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surag Nair
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mohamed Ameen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Anusri Pampari
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jacob Schreiber
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Yu Xin Wang
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Burns
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Helen M Blau
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ioannis Karakikes
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kevin C Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Anshul Kundaje
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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9
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Schock EN, York JR, Li AP, Tu AY, LaBonne C. SoxB1 transcription factors are essential for initiating and maintaining the neural plate border gene expression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.28.560033. [PMID: 37808794 PMCID: PMC10557662 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.560033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
SoxB1 transcription factors (Sox2/3) are well known for their role in early neural fate specification in the embryo, but little is known about functional roles for SoxB1 factors in non-neural ectodermal cell types, such as the neural plate border (NPB). Using Xenopus laevis , we set out to determine if SoxB1 transcription factors have a regulatory function in NPB formation. Herein, we show that SoxB1 factors are necessary for NPB formation, and that prolonged SoxB1 factor activity blocks the transition from a NPB to a neural crest state. Using ChIP-seq we demonstrate that Sox3 is enriched upstream of NPB genes in early NPB cells and, surprisingly, in blastula stem cells. Depletion of SoxB1 factors in blastula stem cells results in downregulation of NPB genes. Finally, we identify Pou5f3 factors as a potential SoxB1 partners in regulating the formation of the NPB and show their combined activity is needed to maintain NPB gene expression. Together, these data identify a novel role for SoxB1 factors in the establishment and maintenance of the NPB, in part through partnership with Pou5f3 factors.
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10
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Hamilton DJ, Hein AE, Wuttke DS, Batey RT. The DNA binding high mobility group box protein family functionally binds RNA. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 14:e1778. [PMID: 36646476 PMCID: PMC10349909 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid binding proteins regulate transcription, splicing, RNA stability, RNA localization, and translation, together tailoring gene expression in response to stimuli. Upon discovery, these proteins are typically classified as either DNA or RNA binding as defined by their in vivo functions; however, recent evidence suggests dual DNA and RNA binding by many of these proteins. High mobility group box (HMGB) proteins have a DNA binding HMGB domain, act as transcription factors and chromatin remodeling proteins, and are increasingly understood to interact with RNA as means to regulate gene expression. Herein, multiple layers of evidence that the HMGB family are dual DNA and RNA binding proteins is comprehensively reviewed. For example, HMGB proteins directly interact with RNA in vitro and in vivo, are localized to RNP granules involved in RNA processing, and their protein interactors are enriched in RNA binding proteins involved in RNA metabolism. Importantly, in cell-based systems, HMGB-RNA interactions facilitate protein-protein interactions, impact splicing outcomes, and modify HMGB protein genomic or cellular localization. Misregulation of these HMGB-RNA interactions are also likely involved in human disease. This review brings to light that as a family, HMGB proteins are likely to bind RNA which is essential to HMGB protein biology. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Recognition RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
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11
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Sinha KK, Bilokapic S, Du Y, Malik D, Halic M. Histone modifications regulate pioneer transcription factor cooperativity. Nature 2023; 619:378-384. [PMID: 37225990 PMCID: PMC10338341 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06112-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Pioneer transcription factors have the ability to access DNA in compacted chromatin1. Multiple transcription factors can bind together to a regulatory element in a cooperative way, and cooperation between the pioneer transcription factors OCT4 (also known as POU5F1) and SOX2 is important for pluripotency and reprogramming2-4. However, the molecular mechanisms by which pioneer transcription factors function and cooperate on chromatin remain unclear. Here we present cryo-electron microscopy structures of human OCT4 bound to a nucleosome containing human LIN28B or nMATN1 DNA sequences, both of which bear multiple binding sites for OCT4. Our structural and biochemistry data reveal that binding of OCT4 induces changes to the nucleosome structure, repositions the nucleosomal DNA and facilitates cooperative binding of additional OCT4 and of SOX2 to their internal binding sites. The flexible activation domain of OCT4 contacts the N-terminal tail of histone H4, altering its conformation and thus promoting chromatin decompaction. Moreover, the DNA-binding domain of OCT4 engages with the N-terminal tail of histone H3, and post-translational modifications at H3K27 modulate DNA positioning and affect transcription factor cooperativity. Thus, our findings suggest that the epigenetic landscape could regulate OCT4 activity to ensure proper cell programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalyan K Sinha
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Silvija Bilokapic
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Yongming Du
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Deepshikha Malik
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Mario Halic
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
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12
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Oses C, Francia MG, Verneri P, Vazquez Echegaray C, Guberman AS, Levi V. The dynamical organization of the core pluripotency transcription factors responds to differentiation cues in early S-phase. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1125015. [PMID: 37215075 PMCID: PMC10192714 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1125015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA replication in stem cells is a major challenge for pluripotency preservation and cell fate decisions. This process involves massive changes in the chromatin architecture and the reorganization of many transcription-related molecules in different spatial and temporal scales. Pluripotency is controlled by the master transcription factors (TFs) OCT4, SOX2 and NANOG that partition into condensates in the nucleus of embryonic stem cells. These condensates are proposed to play relevant roles in the regulation of gene expression and the maintenance of pluripotency. Here, we asked whether the dynamical distribution of the pluripotency TFs changes during the cell cycle, particularly during DNA replication. Since the S phase is considered to be a window of opportunity for cell fate decisions, we explored if differentiation cues in G1 phase trigger changes in the distribution of these TFs during the subsequent S phase. Our results show a spatial redistribution of TFs condensates during DNA replication which was not directly related to chromatin compaction. Additionally, fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy revealed TF-specific, subtle changes in the landscape of TF-chromatin interactions, consistent with their particularities as key players of the pluripotency network. Moreover, we found that differentiation stimuli in the preceding G1 phase triggered a relatively fast and massive reorganization of pluripotency TFs in early-S phase. Particularly, OCT4 and SOX2 condensates dissolved whereas the lifetimes of TF-chromatin interactions increased suggesting that the reorganization of condensates is accompanied with a change in the landscape of TF-chromatin interactions. Notably, NANOG showed impaired interactions with chromatin in stimulated early-S cells in line with its role as naïve pluripotency TF. Together, these findings provide new insights into the regulation of the core pluripotency TFs during DNA replication of embryonic stem cells and highlight their different roles at early differentiation stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Oses
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcos Gabriel Francia
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula Verneri
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Camila Vazquez Echegaray
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandra Sonia Guberman
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Valeria Levi
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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13
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Ding LN, Yu YY, Ma CJ, Lei CJ, Zhang HB. SOX2-associated signaling pathways regulate biological phenotypes of cancers. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 160:114336. [PMID: 36738502 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
SOX2 is a transcription factor involved in multiple stages of embryonic development. In related reports, SOX2 was found to be abnormally expressed in tumor tissues and correlated with clinical features such as TNM staging, tumor grade, and prognosis in patients with various cancer types. In most cancer types, SOX2 is a tumor-promoting factor that regulates tumor progression and metastasis primarily by maintaining the stemness of cancer cells. In addition, SOX2 also regulates the proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, ferroptosis and drug resistance of cancer cells. However, SOX2 acts as a tumor suppressor in some cases in certain cancer types, such as gastric and lung cancer. These key regulatory functions of SOX2 involve complex regulatory networks, including protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid interactions through signaling pathways and noncoding RNA interactions, modulating SOX2 expression may be a potential therapeutic strategy for clinical cancer patients. Therefore, we sorted out the phenotypes related to SOX2 in cancer, hoping to provide a basis for further clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L N Ding
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Y Y Yu
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - C J Ma
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - C J Lei
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - H B Zhang
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Department of Oncology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou, China; State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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14
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Khatoon H, Raza RZ, Saleem S, Batool F, Arshad S, Abrar M, Ali S, Hussain I, Shubin NH, Abbasi AA. Evolutionary relevance of single nucleotide variants within the forebrain exclusive human accelerated enhancer regions. BMC Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:13. [PMID: 36991330 PMCID: PMC10053400 DOI: 10.1186/s12860-023-00474-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Human accelerated regions (HARs) are short conserved genomic sequences that have acquired significantly more nucleotide substitutions than expected in the human lineage after divergence from chimpanzees. The fast evolution of HARs may reflect their roles in the origin of human-specific traits. A recent study has reported positively-selected single nucleotide variants (SNVs) within brain-exclusive human accelerated enhancers (BE-HAEs) hs1210 (forebrain), hs563 (hindbrain) and hs304 (midbrain/forebrain). By including data from archaic hominins, these SNVs were shown to be Homo sapiens-specific, residing within transcriptional factors binding sites (TFBSs) for SOX2 (hs1210), RUNX1/3 (hs563), and FOS/JUND (hs304). Although these findings suggest that the predicted modifications in TFBSs may have some role in present-day brain structure, work is required to verify the extent to which these changes translate into functional variation.
Results
To start to fill this gap, we investigate the SOX2 SNV, with both forebrain expression and strong signal of positive selection in humans. We demonstrate that the HMG box of SOX2 binds in vitro with Homo sapiens-specific derived A-allele and ancestral T-allele carrying DNA sites in BE-HAE hs1210. Molecular docking and simulation analysis indicated highly favourable binding of HMG box with derived A-allele containing DNA site when compared to site carrying ancestral T-allele.
Conclusion
These results suggest that adoptive changes in TF affinity within BE-HAE hs1210 and other HAR enhancers in the evolutionary history of Homo sapiens might.
have brought about changes in gene expression patterns and have functional consequences on forebrain formation and evolution.
Methods
The present study employ electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) and molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations approaches.
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15
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Sinha K, Bilokapic S, Du Y, Malik D, Halic M. Histone modifications regulate pioneer transcription factor binding and cooperativity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.14.532583. [PMID: 36993452 PMCID: PMC10055048 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.14.532583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Pioneer transcription factors have the ability to access DNA in compacted chromatin. Multiple transcription factors can bind together to a regulatory element in a cooperative way and cooperation between pioneer transcription factors Oct4 and Sox2 is important for pluripotency and reprogramming. However, the molecular mechanisms by which pioneer transcription factors function and cooperate remain unclear. Here we present cryo-EM structures of human Oct4 bound to a nucleosome containing human Lin28B and nMatn1 DNA sequences, which bear multiple binding sites for Oct4. Our structural and biochemistry data reveal that Oct4 binding induces changes to the nucleosome structure, repositions the nucleosomal DNA and facilitates cooperative binding of additional Oct4 and of Sox2 to their internal binding sites. The flexible activation domain of Oct4 contacts the histone H4 N-terminal tail, altering its conformation and thus promoting chromatin decompaction. Moreover, the DNA binding domain of Oct4 engages with histone H3 N-terminal tail, and posttranslational modifications at H3K27 modulate DNA positioning and affect transcription factor cooperativity. Thus, our data show that the epigenetic landscape can regulate Oct4 activity to ensure proper cell reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalyan Sinha
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Silvija Bilokapic
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Yongming Du
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Deepshikha Malik
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Mario Halic
- Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
- Corresponding author:
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16
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Novel Variants of SOX4 in Patients with Intellectual Disability. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043519. [PMID: 36834931 PMCID: PMC9964377 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
SOX4 is a transcription factor with pleiotropic functions required for different developmental processes, such as corticogenesis. As with all SOX proteins, it contains a conserved high mobility group (HMG) and exerts its function via interaction with other transcription factors, such as POU3F2. Recently, pathogenic SOX4 variants have been identified in several patients who had clinical features overlapping with Coffin-Siris syndrome. In this study, we identified three novel variants in unrelated patients with intellectual disability, two of which were de novo (c.79G>T, p.Glu27*; c.182G>A p.Arg61Gln) and one inherited (c.355C>T, p.His119Tyr). All three variants affected the HMG box and were suspected to influence SOX4 function. We investigated the effects of these variants on transcriptional activation by co-expressing either wildtype (wt) or mutant SOX4 with its co-activator POU3F2 and measuring their activity in reporter assays. All variants abolished SOX4 activity. While our experiments provide further support for the pathogenicity of SOX4 loss-of-function (LOF) variants as a cause of syndromic intellectual disability (ID), our results also indicate incomplete penetrance associated with one variant. These findings will improve classification of novel, putatively pathogenic SOX4 variants.
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17
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Malaga Gadea FC, Nikolova EN. Structural Plasticity of Pioneer Factor Sox2 and DNA Bendability Modulate Nucleosome Engagement and Sox2-Oct4 Synergism. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167916. [PMID: 36495920 PMCID: PMC10184184 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pioneer transcription factors (pTFs) can bind directly to silent chromatin and promote vital transcriptional programs. Here, by integrating high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy with biochemistry, we reveal new structural and mechanistic insights into the interaction of pluripotency pTFs and functional partners Sox2 and Oct4 with nucleosomes. We find that the affinity and conformation of Sox2 for solvent-exposed nucleosome sites depend strongly on their position and DNA sequence. Sox2, which is partially disordered but becomes structured upon DNA binding and bending, forms a super-stable nucleosome complex at superhelical location +5 (SHL+5) with similar affinity and conformation to that with naked DNA. However, at suboptimal internal and end-positioned sites where DNA may be harder to deform, Sox2 favors partially unfolded and more dynamic states that are encoded in its intrinsic flexibility. Importantly, Sox2 structure and DNA bending can be stabilized by synergistic Oct4 binding, but only on adjacent motifs near the nucleosome edge and with the full Oct4 DNA-binding domain. Further mutational studies reveal that strategically impaired Sox2 folding is coupled to reduced DNA bending and inhibits nucleosome binding and Sox2-Oct4 cooperation, while increased nucleosomal DNA flexibility enhances Sox2 association. Together, our findings fit a model where the site-specific DNA bending propensity and structural plasticity of Sox2 govern distinct modes of nucleosome engagement and modulate Sox2-Oct4 synergism. The principles outlined here can potentially guide pTF site selection in the genome and facilitate interaction with other chromatin factors or chromatin opening in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana C Malaga Gadea
- T.C. Jenkins Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Evgenia N Nikolova
- T.C. Jenkins Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
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18
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Tan DS, Cheung SL, Gao Y, Weinbuch M, Hu H, Shi L, Ti SC, Hutchins AP, Cojocaru V, Jauch R. The homeodomain of Oct4 is a dimeric binder of methylated CpG elements. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:1120-1138. [PMID: 36631980 PMCID: PMC9943670 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Oct4 is essential to maintain pluripotency and has a pivotal role in establishing the germline. Its DNA-binding POU domain was recently found to bind motifs with methylated CpG elements normally associated with epigenetic silencing. However, the mode of binding and the consequences of this capability has remained unclear. Here, we show that Oct4 binds to a compact palindromic DNA element with a methylated CpG core (CpGpal) in alternative states of pluripotency and during cellular reprogramming towards induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). During cellular reprogramming, typical Oct4 bound enhancers are uniformly demethylated, with the prominent exception of the CpGpal sites where DNA methylation is often maintained. We demonstrate that Oct4 cooperatively binds the CpGpal element as a homodimer, which contrasts with the ectoderm-expressed POU factor Brn2. Indeed, binding to CpGpal is Oct4-specific as other POU factors expressed in somatic cells avoid this element. Binding assays combined with structural analyses and molecular dynamic simulations show that dimeric Oct4-binding to CpGpal is driven by the POU-homeodomain whilst the POU-specific domain is detached from DNA. Collectively, we report that Oct4 exerts parts of its regulatory function in the context of methylated DNA through a DNA recognition mechanism that solely relies on its homeodomain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisylyn Senna Tan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shun Lai Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ya Gao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Maike Weinbuch
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China,Institute for Molecular Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Haoqing Hu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Liyang Shi
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shih-Chieh Ti
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Andrew P Hutchins
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Vlad Cojocaru
- STAR-UBB Institute, Babeş-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania,Computational Structural Biology Group, Utrecht University, The Netherlands,Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Ralf Jauch
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +852 3917 9511; Fax: +852 28559730;
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19
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Lo JHH, Edwards M, Langerman J, Sridharan R, Plath K, Smale ST. Oct4:Sox2 binding is essential for establishing but not maintaining active and silent states of dynamically regulated genes in pluripotent cells. Genes Dev 2022; 36:1079-1095. [PMID: 36418052 PMCID: PMC9744233 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350113.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Much has been learned about the mechanisms of action of pluripotency factors Oct4 and Sox2. However, as with other regulators of cell identity, little is known about the impact of disrupting their binding motifs in a native environment or the characteristics of genes they regulate. By quantitatively examining dynamic ranges of gene expression instead of focusing on conventional measures of differential expression, we found that Oct4 and Sox2 enhancer binding is strongly enriched near genes subject to large dynamic ranges of expression among cell types, with binding sites near these genes usually within superenhancers. Mutagenesis of representative Oct4:Sox2 motifs near such active, dynamically regulated genes revealed critical roles in transcriptional activation during reprogramming, with more limited roles in transcriptional maintenance in the pluripotent state. Furthermore, representative motifs near silent genes were critical for establishing but not maintaining the fully silent state, while genes whose transcript levels varied by smaller magnitudes among cell types were unaffected by nearby Oct4:Sox2 motifs. These results suggest that Oct4 and Sox2 directly establish both active and silent transcriptional states in pluripotent cells at a large number of genes subject to dynamic regulation during mammalian development, but are less important than expected for maintaining transcriptional states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Hung-Hao Lo
- Molecular Biology Institute, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Broad Stem Cell Research Center, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Miguel Edwards
- Molecular Biology Institute, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Broad Stem Cell Research Center, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Justin Langerman
- Molecular Biology Institute, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Broad Stem Cell Research Center, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Rupa Sridharan
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA
| | - Kathrin Plath
- Molecular Biology Institute, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Broad Stem Cell Research Center, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Stephen T Smale
- Molecular Biology Institute, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Broad Stem Cell Research Center, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
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20
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Sukparangsi W, Morganti E, Lowndes M, Mayeur H, Weisser M, Hammachi F, Peradziryi H, Roske F, Hölzenspies J, Livigni A, Godard BG, Sugahara F, Kuratani S, Montoya G, Frankenberg SR, Mazan S, Brickman JM. Evolutionary origin of vertebrate OCT4/POU5 functions in supporting pluripotency. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5537. [PMID: 36130934 PMCID: PMC9492771 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32481-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The support of pluripotent cells over time is an essential feature of development. In eutherian embryos, pluripotency is maintained from naïve states in peri-implantation to primed pluripotency at gastrulation. To understand how these states emerged, we reconstruct the evolutionary trajectory of the Pou5 gene family, which contains the central pluripotency factor OCT4. By coupling evolutionary sequence analysis with functional studies in mouse embryonic stem cells, we find that the ability of POU5 proteins to support pluripotency originated in the gnathostome lineage, prior to the generation of two paralogues, Pou5f1 and Pou5f3 via gene duplication. In osteichthyans, retaining both genes, the paralogues differ in their support of naïve and primed pluripotency. The specialization of these duplicates enables the diversification of function in self-renewal and differentiation. By integrating sequence evolution, cell phenotypes, developmental contexts and structural modelling, we pinpoint OCT4 regions sufficient for naïve pluripotency and describe their adaptation over evolutionary time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woranop Sukparangsi
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chon Buri, Thailand
| | - Elena Morganti
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Molly Lowndes
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hélène Mayeur
- CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Biologie Intégrative des Organismes Marins, UMR7232, F-66650, Banyuls sur Mer, France
| | - Melanie Weisser
- Structural Molecular Biology Group, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fella Hammachi
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, 5 Little France Drive, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Hanna Peradziryi
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fabian Roske
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jurriaan Hölzenspies
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alessandra Livigni
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, 5 Little France Drive, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Benoit Gilbert Godard
- CNRS, Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, FR2424, Development and Evolution of Vertebrates Group, Station Biologique, F-29688, Roscoff, France.,CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche, UMR7009, F-06234, Villefranche sur Mer, France
| | - Fumiaki Sugahara
- Division of Biology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Shigeru Kuratani
- Laboratory for Evolutionary Morphology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), Kobe, Japan
| | - Guillermo Montoya
- Structural Molecular Biology Group, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Sylvie Mazan
- CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Biologie Intégrative des Organismes Marins, UMR7232, F-66650, Banyuls sur Mer, France.
| | - Joshua M Brickman
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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21
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Piersimoni L, Abd El Malek M, Bhatia T, Bender J, Brankatschk C, Calvo Sánchez J, Dayhoff GW, Di Ianni A, Figueroa Parra JO, Garcia-Martinez D, Hesselbarth J, Köppen J, Lauth LM, Lippik L, Machner L, Sachan S, Schmidt L, Selle R, Skalidis I, Sorokin O, Ubbiali D, Voigt B, Wedler A, Wei AAJ, Zorn P, Dunker AK, Köhn M, Sinz A, Uversky VN. Lighting up Nobel Prize-winning studies with protein intrinsic disorder. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:449. [PMID: 35882686 PMCID: PMC11072364 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04468-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsically disordered proteins and regions (IDPs and IDRs) and their importance in biology are becoming increasingly recognized in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and chemistry textbooks, as well as in current protein science and structural biology curricula. We argue that the sequence → dynamic conformational ensemble → function principle is of equal importance as the classical sequence → structure → function paradigm. To highlight this point, we describe the IDPs and/or IDRs behind the discoveries associated with 17 Nobel Prizes, 11 in Physiology or Medicine and 6 in Chemistry. The Nobel Laureates themselves did not always mention that the proteins underlying the phenomena investigated in their award-winning studies are in fact IDPs or contain IDRs. In several cases, IDP- or IDR-based molecular functions have been elucidated, while in other instances, it is recognized that the respective protein(s) contain IDRs, but the specific IDR-based molecular functions have yet to be determined. To highlight the importance of IDPs and IDRs as general principle in biology, we present here illustrative examples of IDPs/IDRs in Nobel Prize-winning mechanisms and processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lolita Piersimoni
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Marina Abd El Malek
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Twinkle Bhatia
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Julian Bender
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Christin Brankatschk
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Jaime Calvo Sánchez
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Guy W Dayhoff
- Department of Chemistry, College of Art and Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - Alessio Di Ianni
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | - Dailen Garcia-Martinez
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Julia Hesselbarth
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Janett Köppen
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Luca M Lauth
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Laurin Lippik
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Lisa Machner
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Shubhra Sachan
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Lisa Schmidt
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Robin Selle
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Ioannis Skalidis
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Oleksandr Sorokin
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Daniele Ubbiali
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Bruno Voigt
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Alice Wedler
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Alan An Jung Wei
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Peter Zorn
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Alan Keith Dunker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Marcel Köhn
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Andrea Sinz
- Research Training Group RTG2467, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
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22
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Hagey DW, Bergsland M, Muhr J. SOX2 transcription factor binding and function. Development 2022; 149:276045. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.200547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The transcription factor SOX2 is a vital regulator of stem cell activity in various developing and adult tissues. Mounting evidence has demonstrated the importance of SOX2 in regulating the induction and maintenance of stemness as well as in controlling cell proliferation, lineage decisions and differentiation. Recent studies have revealed that the ability of SOX2 to regulate these stem cell features involves its function as a pioneer factor, with the capacity to target nucleosomal DNA, modulate chromatin accessibility and prepare silent genes for subsequent activation. Moreover, although SOX2 binds to similar DNA motifs in different stem cells, its multifaceted and cell type-specific functions are reliant on context-dependent features. These cell type-specific properties include variations in partner factor availability and SOX2 protein expression levels. In this Primer, we discuss recent findings that have increased our understanding of how SOX2 executes its versatile functions as a master regulator of stem cell activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W. Hagey
- Karolinska Institutet 1 Department of Laboratory Medicine , , SE-171 77 Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Maria Bergsland
- Karolinska Institutet 2 Department of Cell and Molecular Biology , , Solnavägen 9, SE-171 65 Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Jonas Muhr
- Karolinska Institutet 2 Department of Cell and Molecular Biology , , Solnavägen 9, SE-171 65 Stockholm , Sweden
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23
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Wu XS, He XY, Ipsaro JJ, Huang YH, Preall JB, Ng D, Shue YT, Sage J, Egeblad M, Joshua-Tor L, Vakoc CR. OCA-T1 and OCA-T2 are coactivators of POU2F3 in the tuft cell lineage. Nature 2022; 607:169-175. [PMID: 35576971 PMCID: PMC9419707 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04842-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Tuft cells are a rare chemosensory lineage that coordinates immune and neural responses to foreign pathogens in mucosal tissues1. Recent studies have also revealed tuft-cell-like human tumours2,3, particularly as a variant of small-cell lung cancer. Both normal and neoplastic tuft cells share a genetic requirement for the transcription factor POU2F3 (refs. 2,4), although the transcriptional mechanisms that generate this cell type are poorly understood. Here we show that binding of POU2F3 to the uncharacterized proteins C11orf53 and COLCA2 (renamed here OCA-T1/POU2AF2 and OCA-T2/POU2AF3, respectively) is critical in the tuft cell lineage. OCA-T1 and OCA-T2 are paralogues of the B-cell-specific coactivator OCA-B; all three proteins are encoded in a gene cluster and contain a conserved peptide that binds to class II POU transcription factors and a DNA octamer motif in a bivalent manner. We demonstrate that binding between POU2F3 and OCA-T1 or OCA-T2 is essential in tuft-cell-like small-cell lung cancer. Moreover, we generated OCA-T1-deficient mice, which are viable but lack tuft cells in several mucosal tissues. These findings reveal that the POU2F3-OCA-T complex is the master regulator of tuft cell identity and a molecular vulnerability of tuft-cell-like small-cell lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli S Wu
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Genetics Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Xue-Yan He
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan J Ipsaro
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - Yu-Han Huang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | | | - David Ng
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - Yan Ting Shue
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Julien Sage
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mikala Egeblad
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - Leemor Joshua-Tor
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
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24
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Transcription factor networks in trophoblast development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:337. [PMID: 35657505 PMCID: PMC9166831 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04363-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The placenta sustains embryonic development and is critical for a successful pregnancy outcome. It provides the site of exchange between the mother and the embryo, has immunological functions and is a vital endocrine organ. To perform these diverse roles, the placenta comprises highly specialized trophoblast cell types, including syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast. The coordinated actions of transcription factors (TFs) regulate their emergence during development, subsequent specialization, and identity. These TFs integrate diverse signaling cues, form TF networks, associate with chromatin remodeling and modifying factors, and collectively determine the cell type-specific characteristics. Here, we summarize the general properties of TFs, provide an overview of TFs involved in the development and function of the human trophoblast, and address similarities and differences to their murine orthologs. In addition, we discuss how the recent establishment of human in vitro models combined with -omics approaches propel our knowledge and transform the human trophoblast field.
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25
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Xiong L, Tolen EA, Choi J, Velychko S, Caizzi L, Velychko T, Adachi K, MacCarthy CM, Lidschreiber M, Cramer P, Schöler HR. Oct4 differentially regulates chromatin opening and enhancer transcription in pluripotent stem cells. eLife 2022; 11:71533. [PMID: 35621159 PMCID: PMC9142147 DOI: 10.7554/elife.71533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor Oct4 is essential for the maintenance and induction of stem cell pluripotency, but its functional roles are not fully understood. Here, we investigate the functions of Oct4 by depleting and subsequently recovering it in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and conducting a time-resolved multiomics analysis. Oct4 depletion leads to an immediate loss of its binding to enhancers, accompanied by a decrease in mRNA synthesis from its target genes that are part of the transcriptional network that maintains pluripotency. Gradual decrease of Oct4 binding to enhancers does not immediately change the chromatin accessibility but reduces transcription of enhancers. Conversely, partial recovery of Oct4 expression results in a rapid increase in chromatin accessibility, whereas enhancer transcription does not fully recover. These results indicate different concentration-dependent activities of Oct4. Whereas normal ESC levels of Oct4 are required for transcription of pluripotency enhancers, low levels of Oct4 are sufficient to retain chromatin accessibility, likely together with other factors such as Sox2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Xiong
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Erik A Tolen
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Münster, Germany
| | - Jinmi Choi
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sergiy Velychko
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Münster, Germany
| | - Livia Caizzi
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Taras Velychko
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Kenjiro Adachi
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Münster, Germany
| | - Caitlin M MacCarthy
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Münster, Germany
| | - Michael Lidschreiber
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Patrick Cramer
- Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Hans R Schöler
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Münster, Germany
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26
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Hamilton DJ, Hein AE, Holmes ZE, Wuttke DS, Batey RT. The DNA-Binding High-Mobility Group Box Domain of Sox Family Proteins Directly Interacts with RNA In Vitro. Biochemistry 2022; 61:10.1021/acs.biochem.2c00218. [PMID: 35511045 PMCID: PMC9636074 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.2c00218] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing body of evidence that a substantial number of protein domains identified as DNA-binding also interact with RNA to regulate biological processes. Several recent studies have revealed that the Sox2 transcription factor binds RNA through its high-mobility group box (HMGB) domain in vitro and in vivo. A high degree of conservation of this domain among members of the Sox family of transcription factors suggests that RNA-binding activity may be a general feature of these proteins. To address this hypothesis, we examined a subset of HMGB domains from human Sox family of proteins for their ability to bind both DNA and RNA in vitro. We observed selective, high-affinity interactions between Sox family HMGB domains and various model RNA elements, including a four-way junction RNA, a hairpin RNA with an internal bulge, G-quadruplex RNA, and a fragment of long noncoding RNA ES2, which is known to directly interact with Sox2. Importantly, the HMGB domains bind these RNA ligands significantly tighter than nonconsensus dsDNA and in some cases with affinities rivaling those of their consensus dsDNA sequences. These data suggest that RNA binding is a conserved feature of the Sox family of transcription factors with the potential to modulate unappreciated biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desmond J Hamilton
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0596, United States
| | - Abigail E Hein
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0596, United States
| | - Zachariah E Holmes
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0596, United States
| | - Deborah S Wuttke
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0596, United States
| | - Robert T Batey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0596, United States
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27
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Shen Z, Li RZ, Prohaska TA, Hoeksema MA, Spann NJ, Tao J, Fonseca GJ, Le T, Stolze LK, Sakai M, Romanoski CE, Glass CK. Systematic analysis of naturally occurring insertions and deletions that alter transcription factor spacing identifies tolerant and sensitive transcription factor pairs. eLife 2022; 11:70878. [PMID: 35049498 PMCID: PMC8809895 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of gene expression requires the combinatorial binding of sequence-specific transcription factors (TFs) at promoters and enhancers. Prior studies showed that alterations in the spacing between TF binding sites can influence promoter and enhancer activity. However, the relative importance of TF spacing alterations resulting from naturally occurring insertions and deletions (InDels) has not been systematically analyzed. To address this question, we first characterized the genome-wide spacing relationships of 73 TFs in human K562 cells as determined by ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing). We found a dominant pattern of a relaxed range of spacing between collaborative factors, including 45 TFs exclusively exhibiting relaxed spacing with their binding partners. Next, we exploited millions of InDels provided by genetically diverse mouse strains and human individuals to investigate the effects of altered spacing on TF binding and local histone acetylation. These analyses suggested that spacing alterations resulting from naturally occurring InDels are generally tolerated in comparison to genetic variants directly affecting TF binding sites. To experimentally validate this prediction, we introduced synthetic spacing alterations between PU.1 and C/EBPβ binding sites at six endogenous genomic loci in a macrophage cell line. Remarkably, collaborative binding of PU.1 and C/EBPβ at these locations tolerated changes in spacing ranging from 5 bp increase to >30 bp decrease. Collectively, these findings have implications for understanding mechanisms underlying enhancer selection and for the interpretation of non-coding genetic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyang Shen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Rick Z Li
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Thomas A Prohaska
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Marten A Hoeksema
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Nathan J Spann
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Jenhan Tao
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, United States
| | - Gregory J Fonseca
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Thomas Le
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Lindsey K Stolze
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, United States
| | - Mashito Sakai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Casey E Romanoski
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, United States
| | - Christopher K Glass
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, United States
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28
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Chen YS, Racca JD, Weiss MA. Tenuous Transcriptional Threshold of Human Sex Determination. I. SRY and Swyer Syndrome at the Edge of Ambiguity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:945030. [PMID: 35957822 PMCID: PMC9360328 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.945030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Male sex determination in mammals is initiated by SRY, a Y-encoded transcription factor. The protein contains a high-mobility-group (HMG) box mediating sequence-specific DNA bending. Mutations causing XY gonadal dysgenesis (Swyer syndrome) cluster in the box and ordinarily arise de novo. Rare inherited variants lead to male development in one genetic background (the father) but not another (his sterile XY daughter). De novo and inherited mutations occur at an invariant Tyr adjoining the motif's basic tail (box position 72; Y127 in SRY). In SRY-responsive cell lines CH34 and LNCaP, de novo mutations Y127H and Y127C reduced SRY activity (as assessed by transcriptional activation of principal target gene Sox9) by 5- and 8-fold, respectively. Whereas Y127H impaired testis-specific enhancer assembly, Y127C caused accelerated proteasomal proteolysis; activity was in part rescued by proteasome inhibition. Inherited variant Y127F was better tolerated: its expression was unperturbed, and activity was reduced by only twofold, a threshold similar to other inherited variants. Biochemical studies of wild-type (WT) and variant HMG boxes demonstrated similar specific DNA affinities (within a twofold range), with only subtle differences in sharp DNA bending as probed by permutation gel electrophoresis and fluorescence resonance-energy transfer (FRET); thermodynamic stabilities of the free boxes were essentially identical. Such modest perturbations are within the range of species variation. Whereas our cell-based findings rationalize the de novo genotype-phenotype relationships, a molecular understanding of inherited mutation Y127F remains elusive. Our companion study uncovers cryptic biophysical perturbations suggesting that the para-OH group of Y127 anchors a novel water-mediated DNA clamp.
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29
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Racca JD, Chatterjee D, Chen YS, Rai RK, Yang Y, Georgiadis MM, Haas E, Weiss MA. Tenuous transcriptional threshold of human sex determination. II. SRY exploits water-mediated clamp at the edge of ambiguity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1029177. [PMID: 36568077 PMCID: PMC9771472 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1029177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Y-encoded transcription factor SRY initiates male differentiation in therian mammals. This factor contains a high-mobility-group (HMG) box, which mediates sequence-specific DNA binding with sharp DNA bending. A companion article in this issue described sex-reversal mutations at box position 72 (residue 127 in human SRY), invariant as Tyr among mammalian orthologs. Although not contacting DNA, the aromatic ring seals the domain's minor wing at a solvent-exposed junction with a basic tail. A seeming paradox was posed by the native-like biochemical properties of inherited Swyer variant Y72F: its near-native gene-regulatory activity is consistent with the father's male development, but at odds with the daughter's XY female somatic phenotype. Surprisingly, aromatic rings (Y72, F72 or W72) confer higher transcriptional activity than do basic or polar side chains generally observed at solvated DNA interfaces (Arg, Lys, His or Gln). Whereas biophysical studies (time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer and heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy) uncovered only subtle perturbations, dissociation of the Y72F complex was markedly accelerated relative to wild-type. Studies of protein-DNA solvation by molecular-dynamics (MD) simulations of an homologous high-resolution crystal structure (SOX18) suggest that Y72 para-OH anchors a network of water molecules at the tail-DNA interface, perturbed in the variant in association with nonlocal conformational fluctuations. Loss of the Y72 anchor among SRY variants presumably "unclamps" its basic tail, leading to (a) rapid DNA dissociation despite native affinity and (b) attenuated transcriptional activity at the edge of sexual ambiguity. Conservation of Y72 suggests that this water-mediated clamp operates generally among SRY and metazoan SOX domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph D. Racca
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- *Correspondence: Joseph D. Racca, ; Michael A. Weiss,
| | - Deepak Chatterjee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Yen-Shan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Ratan K. Rai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Yanwu Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Millie M. Georgiadis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Elisha Haas
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Michael A. Weiss
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- *Correspondence: Joseph D. Racca, ; Michael A. Weiss,
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30
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Bakhmet EI, Tomilin AN. Key features of the POU transcription factor Oct4 from an evolutionary perspective. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:7339-7353. [PMID: 34698883 PMCID: PMC11072838 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03975-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Oct4, a class V POU-domain protein that is encoded by the Pou5f1 gene, is thought to be a key transcription factor in the early development of mammals. This transcription factor plays indispensable roles in pluripotent stem cells as well as in the acquisition of pluripotency during somatic cell reprogramming. Oct4 has also been shown to play a role as a pioneer transcription factor during zygotic genome activation (ZGA) from zebrafish to human. However, during the past decade, several studies have brought these conclusions into question. It was clearly shown that the first steps in mouse development are not affected by the loss of Oct4. Subsequently, the role of Oct4 as a genome activator was brought into doubt. It was also found that the reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) could proceed without Oct4. In this review, we summarize recent findings, reassess the role of Oct4 in reprogramming and ZGA, and point to structural features that may underlie this role. We speculate that pluripotent stem cells resemble neural stem cells more closely than previously thought. Oct4 orthologs within the POUV class hold key roles in genome activation during early development of species with late ZGA. However, in Placentalia, eutherian-specific proteins such as Dux overtake Oct4 in ZGA and endow them with the formation of an evolutionary new tissue-the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny I Bakhmet
- Laboratory of the Molecular Biology of Stem Cells, Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Alexey N Tomilin
- Laboratory of the Molecular Biology of Stem Cells, Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
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31
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Festuccia N, Owens N, Chervova A, Dubois A, Navarro P. The combined action of Esrrb and Nr5a2 is essential for murine naïve pluripotency. Development 2021; 148:271840. [PMID: 34397088 PMCID: PMC8451941 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The maintenance of pluripotency in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is governed by the action of an interconnected network of transcription factors. Among them, only Oct4 and Sox2 have been shown to be strictly required for the self-renewal of ESCs and pluripotency, particularly in culture conditions in which differentiation cues are chemically inhibited. Here, we report that the conjunct activity of two orphan nuclear receptors, Esrrb and Nr5a2, parallels the importance of that of Oct4 and Sox2 in naïve mouse ESCs. By occupying a large common set of regulatory elements, these two factors control the binding of Oct4, Sox2 and Nanog to DNA. Consequently, in their absence the pluripotency network collapses and the transcriptome is substantially deregulated, leading to the differentiation of ESCs. Altogether, this work identifies orphan nuclear receptors, previously thought to be performing supportive functions, as a set of core regulators of naïve pluripotency. Summary: Esrrb and Nr5a2, two orphan nuclear receptors, are identified as essential regulators of pluripotency in mouse embryonic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Festuccia
- Regulatory Dynamics and Cell Identity, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK.,Epigenomics, Proliferation, and the Identity of Cells, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Nick Owens
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Almira Chervova
- Epigenomics, Proliferation, and the Identity of Cells, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Agnès Dubois
- Epigenomics, Proliferation, and the Identity of Cells, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Pablo Navarro
- Epigenomics, Proliferation, and the Identity of Cells, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
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32
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Design and Characterization of a Cell-Penetrating Peptide Derived from the SOX2 Transcription Factor. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179354. [PMID: 34502261 PMCID: PMC8431565 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SOX2 is an oncogenic transcription factor overexpressed in nearly half of the basal-like triple-negative breast cancers associated with very poor outcomes. Targeting and inhibiting SOX2 is clinically relevant as high SOX2 mRNA levels are positively correlated with decreased overall survival and progression-free survival in patients affected with breast cancer. Given its key role as a master regulator of cell proliferation, SOX2 represents an important scaffold for the engineering of dominant-negative synthetic DNA-binding domains (DBDs) that act by blocking or interfering with the oncogenic activity of the endogenous transcription factor in cancer cells. We have synthesized an interference peptide (iPep) encompassing a truncated 24 amino acid long C-terminus of SOX2 containing a potential SOX-specific nuclear localization sequence, and the determinants of the binding of SOX2 to the DNA and to its transcription factor binding partners. We found that the resulting peptide (SOX2-iPep) possessed intrinsic cell penetration and promising nuclear localization into breast cancer cells, and decreased cellular proliferation of SOX2 overexpressing cell lines. The novel SOX2-iPep was found to exhibit a random coil conformation predominantly in solution. Molecular dynamics simulations were used to characterize the interactions of both the SOX2 transcription factor and the SOX2-iPep with FGF4-enhancer DNA in the presence of the POU domain of the partner transcription factor OCT4. Predictions of the free energy of binding revealed that the iPep largely retained the binding affinity for DNA of parental SOX2. This work will enable the future engineering of novel dominant interference peptides to transport different therapeutic cargo molecules such as anti-cancer drugs into cells.
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Roberts GA, Ozkan B, Gachulincová I, O'Dwyer MR, Hall-Ponsele E, Saxena M, Robinson PJ, Soufi A. Dissecting OCT4 defines the role of nucleosome binding in pluripotency. Nat Cell Biol 2021; 23:834-845. [PMID: 34354236 PMCID: PMC7611526 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-021-00727-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Pioneer transcription factors such as OCT4 can target silent genes embedded in nucleosome-dense regions. How nucleosome interaction enables transcription factors to target chromatin and determine cell identity remains elusive. Here, we systematically dissect OCT4 to show that nucleosome binding is encoded within the DNA-binding domain and yet can be uncoupled from free-DNA binding. Furthermore, accelerating the binding kinetics of OCT4 to DNA enhances nucleosome binding. In cells, uncoupling nucleosome binding diminishes the ability of OCT4 to individually access closed chromatin, while more dynamic nucleosome binding results in expansive genome scanning within closed chromatin. However, both uncoupling and enhancing nucleosome binding are detrimental to inducing pluripotency from differentiated cells. Remarkably, stable interactions between OCT4 and nucleosomes are continuously required for maintaining the accessibility of pluripotency enhancers in stem cells. Our findings reveal how the affinity and residence time of OCT4-nucleosome complexes modulate chromatin accessibility during cell fate changes and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth A Roberts
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Institute of Stem Cell Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Burak Ozkan
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Institute of Stem Cell Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ivana Gachulincová
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Institute of Stem Cell Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Michael R O'Dwyer
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Institute of Stem Cell Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elisa Hall-Ponsele
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Institute of Stem Cell Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Manoj Saxena
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - Philip J Robinson
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - Abdenour Soufi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Institute of Stem Cell Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Kagawa W, Kurumizaka H. Structural basis for DNA sequence recognition by pioneer factors in nucleosomes. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2021; 71:59-64. [PMID: 34218163 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Most of the genomic DNA in eukaryotes is bound to histone complexes, which hinders transcription factors from accessing their target DNA sequences. Here, we discuss recent structural insights into the mechanisms by which pioneer factors, an emerging class of transcription factors, can recognize DNA motifs located on the nucleosome surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Kagawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Meisei University, 2-1-1 Hodokubo, Hino-shi, Tokyo, 191-8506, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kurumizaka
- Laboratory of Chromatin Structure and Function, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0032, Japan.
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35
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Michael AK, Thomä NH. Reading the chromatinized genome. Cell 2021; 184:3599-3611. [PMID: 34146479 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic DNA-binding proteins operate in the context of chromatin, where nucleosomes are the elementary building blocks. Nucleosomal DNA is wrapped around a histone core, thereby rendering a large fraction of the DNA surface inaccessible to DNA-binding proteins. Nevertheless, first responders in DNA repair and sequence-specific transcription factors bind DNA target sites obstructed by chromatin. While early studies examined protein binding to histone-free DNA, it is only now beginning to emerge how DNA sequences are interrogated on nucleosomes. These readout strategies range from the release of nucleosomal DNA from histones, to rotational/translation register shifts of the DNA motif, and nucleosome-specific DNA binding modes that differ from those observed on naked DNA. Since DNA motif engagement on nucleosomes strongly depends on position and orientation, we argue that motif location and nucleosome positioning co-determine protein access to DNA in transcription and DNA repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia K Michael
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas H Thomä
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
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36
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Islam Z, Ali AM, Naik A, Eldaw M, Decock J, Kolatkar PR. Transcription Factors: The Fulcrum Between Cell Development and Carcinogenesis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:681377. [PMID: 34195082 PMCID: PMC8236851 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.681377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Higher eukaryotic development is a complex and tightly regulated process, whereby transcription factors (TFs) play a key role in controlling the gene regulatory networks. Dysregulation of these regulatory networks has also been associated with carcinogenesis. Transcription factors are key enablers of cancer stemness, which support the maintenance and function of cancer stem cells that are believed to act as seeds for cancer initiation, progression and metastasis, and treatment resistance. One key area of research is to understand how these factors interact and collaborate to define cellular fate during embryogenesis as well as during tumor development. This review focuses on understanding the role of TFs in cell development and cancer. The molecular mechanisms of cell fate decision are of key importance in efforts towards developing better protocols for directed differentiation of cells in research and medicine. We also discuss the dysregulation of TFs and their role in cancer progression and metastasis, exploring TF networks as direct or indirect targets for therapeutic intervention, as well as specific TFs’ potential as biomarkers for predicting and monitoring treatment responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyaul Islam
- Diabetes Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ameena Mohamed Ali
- Diabetes Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Adviti Naik
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed Eldaw
- Diabetes Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Julie Decock
- Translational Cancer and Immunity Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Prasanna R Kolatkar
- Diabetes Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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Biological importance of OCT transcription factors in reprogramming and development. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:1018-1028. [PMID: 34117345 PMCID: PMC8257633 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00637-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ectopic expression of Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc can reprogram somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Attempts to identify genes or chemicals that can functionally replace each of these four reprogramming factors have revealed that exogenous Oct4 is not necessary for reprogramming under certain conditions or in the presence of alternative factors that can regulate endogenous Oct4 expression. For example, polycistronic expression of Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc can elicit reprogramming by activating endogenous Oct4 expression indirectly. Experiments in which the reprogramming competence of all other Oct family members tested and also in different species have led to the decisive conclusion that Oct proteins display different reprogramming competences and species-dependent reprogramming activity despite their profound sequence conservation. We discuss the roles of the structural components of Oct proteins in reprogramming and how donor cell epigenomes endow Oct proteins with different reprogramming competences. Cells can be reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic-like stem cells that can turn into any cell type and have extensive potential medical uses, without adding the transcription factor OCT4. Although other nearly identical OCT family members had been tried, only OCT4 could induce reprogramming and was previously thought to be indispensable. However, it now appears that the reprogramming can be induced by multiple pathways, as detailed in a review by Hans Schöler, Max Planck Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, Münster, and Johnny Kim, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, in Germany. They report that any factors that trigger cells to activate endogeous OCT4 can produce iPSCs without exogeously admistration of OCT4. The mechanisms for producing iPSCs can differ between species. These results illuminate the complex mechanisms of reprogramming.
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38
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Structures of chromatin modulators in complex with nucleosome. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2021; 63:105-114. [PMID: 33823458 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The chromatin structure is dynamically regulated by many different modulators that post-translationally modify histones, replace canonical histones with histone variants, and unwind nucleosomal DNA, thereby modulating the accessibility of nucleosomal DNA and facilitating downstream DNA-templated nuclear processes. To understand how these modulators change the chromatin structure, it is essential to determine the 3D structures of chromatin modulators in complex with nucleosome. Here, we review the very recent progress in structural studies of some selected chromatin modulators in complex with nucleosome, including those of histone demethylases LSD1/2, some pioneer transcription factors, and the PWWP domain-containing protein LEDGF.
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39
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Cajigas I, Chakraborty A, Lynam M, Swyter KR, Bastidas M, Collens L, Luo H, Ay F, Kohtz JD. Sox2- Evf2 lncRNA-mediated mechanisms of chromosome topological control in developing forebrain. Development 2021; 148:dev197202. [PMID: 33593819 PMCID: PMC7990859 DOI: 10.1242/dev.197202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Evf2 long non-coding RNA directs Dlx5/6 ultraconserved enhancer(UCE)-intrachromosomal interactions, regulating genes across a 27 Mb region on chromosome 6 in mouse developing forebrain. Here, we show that Evf2 long-range gene repression occurs through multi-step mechanisms involving the transcription factor Sox2. Evf2 directly interacts with Sox2, antagonizing Sox2 activation of Dlx5/6UCE, and recruits Sox2 to the Dlx5/6eii shadow enhancer and key Dlx5/6UCE interaction sites. Sox2 directly interacts with Dlx1 and Smarca4, as part of the Evf2 ribonucleoprotein complex, forming spherical subnuclear domains (protein pools, PPs). Evf2 targets Sox2 PPs to one long-range repressed target gene (Rbm28), at the expense of another (Akr1b8). Evf2 and Sox2 shift Dlx5/6UCE interactions towards Rbm28, linking Evf2/Sox2 co-regulated topological control and gene repression. We propose a model that distinguishes Evf2 gene repression mechanisms at Rbm28 (Dlx5/6UCE position) and Akr1b8 (limited Sox2 availability). Genome-wide control of RNPs (Sox2, Dlx and Smarca4) shows that co-recruitment influences Sox2 DNA binding. Together, these data suggest that Evf2 organizes a Sox2 PP subnuclear domain and, through Sox2-RNP sequestration and recruitment, regulates chromosome 6 long-range UCE targeting and activity with genome-wide consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivelisse Cajigas
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute 2430 N Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
| | - Abhijit Chakraborty
- Centers for Autoimmunity and Cancer Immunotherapy, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Circle, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Madison Lynam
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute 2430 N Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
| | - Kelsey R Swyter
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute 2430 N Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
| | - Monique Bastidas
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute 2430 N Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
| | - Linden Collens
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute 2430 N Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
| | - Hao Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute 2430 N Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
| | - Ferhat Ay
- Centers for Autoimmunity and Cancer Immunotherapy, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Circle, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jhumku D Kohtz
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute 2430 N Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
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41
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Avsec Ž, Weilert M, Shrikumar A, Krueger S, Alexandari A, Dalal K, Fropf R, McAnany C, Gagneur J, Kundaje A, Zeitlinger J. Base-resolution models of transcription-factor binding reveal soft motif syntax. Nat Genet 2021; 53:354-366. [PMID: 33603233 PMCID: PMC8812996 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-021-00782-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The arrangement (syntax) of transcription factor (TF) binding motifs is an important part of the cis-regulatory code, yet remains elusive. We introduce a deep learning model, BPNet, that uses DNA sequence to predict base-resolution chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-nexus binding profiles of pluripotency TFs. We develop interpretation tools to learn predictive motif representations and identify soft syntax rules for cooperative TF binding interactions. Strikingly, Nanog preferentially binds with helical periodicity, and TFs often cooperate in a directional manner, which we validate using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-induced point mutations. Our model represents a powerful general approach to uncover the motifs and syntax of cis-regulatory sequences in genomics data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Žiga Avsec
- Department of Informatics, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany,Graduate School of Quantitative Biosciences (QBM), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany,Currently at DeepMind, London, UK
| | - Melanie Weilert
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Avanti Shrikumar
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sabrina Krueger
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Amr Alexandari
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Khyati Dalal
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA,The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Robin Fropf
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Charles McAnany
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Julien Gagneur
- Department of Informatics, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Anshul Kundaje
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA,Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA,correspondence: ,
| | - Julia Zeitlinger
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA,The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA,correspondence: ,
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42
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Sox2 modulation increases naïve pluripotency plasticity. iScience 2021; 24:102153. [PMID: 33665571 PMCID: PMC7903329 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotency provides a tool to explore mechanisms underlying establishment, maintenance, and differentiation of naive pluripotent stem cells (nPSCs). Here, we report that self-renewal of nPSCs requires minimal Sox2 expression (Sox2-low). Sox2-low nPSCs do not show impaired neuroectoderm specification and differentiate efficiently in vitro into all embryonic germ lineages. Strikingly, upon the removal of self-renewing cues Sox2-low nPSCs differentiate into both embryonic and extraembryonic cell fates in vitro and in vivo. This differs from previous studies which only identified conditions that allowed cells to differentiate to one fate or the other. At the single-cell level self-renewing Sox2-low nPSCs exhibit a naive molecular signature. However, they display a nearer trophoblast identity than controls and decreased ability of Oct4 to bind naïve-associated regulatory sequences. In sum, this work defines wild-type levels of Sox2 as a restrictor of developmental potential and suggests perturbation of naive network as a mechanism to increase cell plasticity. Low Sox2 expression is sufficient for naive pluripotent stem cell self-renewal Low Sox2 expression does not impair neurectoderm differentiation in vitro Low Sox2 expression impairs Oct4 genomic occupancy Low Sox2 increases naive pluripotent stem cell plasticity in vitro and in vivo
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43
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Williams CAC, Soufi A, Pollard SM. Post-translational modification of SOX family proteins: Key biochemical targets in cancer? Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 67:30-38. [PMID: 31539559 PMCID: PMC7703692 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sox proteins are a family of lineage-associated transcription factors. They regulate expression of genes involved in control of self-renewal and multipotency in both developmental and adult stem cells. Overexpression of Sox proteins is frequently observed in many different human cancers. Despite their importance as therapeutic targets, Sox proteins are difficult to 'drug' using structure-based design. However, Sox protein localisation, activity and interaction partners are regulated by a plethora of post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as: phosphorylation, acetylation, sumoylation, methylation, and ubiquitylation. Here we review the various reported post-translational modifications of Sox proteins and their potential functional importance in guiding cell fate processes. The enzymes that regulate these PTMs could be useful targets for anti-cancer drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A C Williams
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, EH16 4UU, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Abdenour Soufi
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, EH16 4UU, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Steven M Pollard
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, EH16 4UU, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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44
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Tan DS, Holzner M, Weng M, Srivastava Y, Jauch R. SOX17 in cellular reprogramming and cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 67:65-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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45
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In Silico Estimation of the Abundance and Phylogenetic Significance of the Composite Oct4-Sox2 Binding Motifs within a Wide Range of Species. DATA 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/data5040111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing technologies have greatly accelerated the progress of genomics, transcriptomics, and metagenomics. Currently, a large amount of genomic data from various organisms is being generated, the volume of which is increasing every year. Therefore, the development of methods that allow the rapid search and analysis of DNA sequences is urgent. Here, we present a novel motif-based high-throughput sequence scoring method that generates genome information. We found and identified Utf1-like, Fgf4-like, and Hoxb1-like motifs, which are cis-regulatory elements for the pluripotency transcription factors Sox2 and Oct4 within the genomes of different eukaryotic organisms. The genome-wide analysis of these motifs was performed to understand the impact of their diversification on mammalian genome evolution. Utf1-like, Fgf4-like, and Hoxb1-like motif diversity was evaluated across genomes from multiple species.
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46
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Price RM, Budzyński MA, Kundra S, Teves SS. Advances in visualizing transcription factor - DNA interactions. Genome 2020; 64:449-466. [PMID: 33113335 DOI: 10.1139/gen-2020-0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
At the heart of the transcription process is the specific interaction between transcription factors (TFs) and their target DNA sequences. Decades of molecular biology research have led to unprecedented insights into how TFs access the genome to regulate transcription. In the last 20 years, advances in microscopy have enabled scientists to add imaging as a powerful tool in probing two specific aspects of TF-DNA interactions: structure and dynamics. In this review, we examine how applications of diverse imaging technologies can provide structural and dynamic information that complements insights gained from molecular biology assays. As a case study, we discuss how applications of advanced imaging techniques have reshaped our understanding of TF behavior across the cell cycle, leading to a rethinking in the field of mitotic bookmarking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Price
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Marek A Budzyński
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Shivani Kundra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Sheila S Teves
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Life Sciences Institute, The University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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47
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Single-gene imaging links genome topology, promoter-enhancer communication and transcription control. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2020; 27:1032-1040. [PMID: 32958948 PMCID: PMC7644657 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-020-0493-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Transcription activation by distal enhancers is essential for cell-fate specification and maintenance of cellular identities. How long-range gene regulation is physically achieved, especially within complex regulatory landscapes of non-binary enhancer-promoter configurations, remains elusive. Recent nanoscopy advances have quantitatively linked promoter kinetics and ~100- to 200-nm-sized clusters of enhancer-associated regulatory factors (RFs) at important developmental genes. Here, we further dissect mechanisms of RF clustering and transcription activation in mouse embryonic stem cells. RF recruitment into clusters involves specific molecular recognition of cognate DNA and chromatin-binding sites, suggesting underlying cis-element clustering. Strikingly, imaging of tagged genomic loci, with ≤1 kilobase and ~20-nanometer precision, in live cells, reveals distal enhancer clusters over the extended locus in frequent close proximity to target genes-within RF-clustering distances. These high-interaction-frequency enhancer-cluster 'superclusters' create nano-environments wherein clustered RFs activate target genes, providing a structural framework for relating genome organization, focal RF accumulation and transcription activation.
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Abstract
Pioneer transcription factors have the intrinsic biochemical ability to scan partial DNA sequence motifs that are exposed on the surface of a nucleosome and thus access silent genes that are inaccessible to other transcription factors. Pioneer factors subsequently enable other transcription factors, nucleosome remodeling complexes, and histone modifiers to engage chromatin, thereby initiating the formation of an activating or repressive regulatory sequence. Thus, pioneer factors endow the competence for fate changes in embryonic development, are essential for cellular reprogramming, and rewire gene networks in cancer cells. Recent studies with reconstituted nucleosomes in vitro and chromatin binding in vivo reveal that pioneer factors can directly perturb nucleosome structure and chromatin accessibility in different ways. This review focuses on our current understanding of the mechanisms by which pioneer factors initiate gene network changes and will ultimately contribute to our ability to control cell fates at will.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth S Zaret
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Epigenetics Institute, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-5157, USA;
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Kim KP, Wu Y, Yoon J, Adachi K, Wu G, Velychko S, MacCarthy CM, Shin B, Röpke A, Arauzo-Bravo MJ, Stehling M, Han DW, Gao Y, Kim J, Gao S, Schöler HR. Reprogramming competence of OCT factors is determined by transactivation domains. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:6/36/eaaz7364. [PMID: 32917606 PMCID: PMC7467702 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz7364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OCT4 (also known as POU5F1) plays an essential role in reprogramming. It is the only member of the POU (Pit-Oct-Unc) family of transcription factors that can induce pluripotency despite sharing high structural similarities to all other members. Here, we discover that OCT6 (also known as POU3F1) can elicit reprogramming specifically in human cells. OCT6-based reprogramming does not alter the mesenchymal-epithelial transition but is attenuated through the delayed activation of the pluripotency network in comparison with OCT4-based reprogramming. Creating a series of reciprocal domain-swapped chimeras and mutants across all OCT factors, we clearly delineate essential elements of OCT4/OCT6-dependent reprogramming and, conversely, identify the features that prevent induction of pluripotency by other OCT factors. With this strategy, we further discover various chimeric proteins that are superior to OCT4 in reprogramming. Our findings clarify how reprogramming competences of OCT factors are conferred through their structural components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kee-Pyo Kim
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - You Wu
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Juyong Yoon
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Kenjiro Adachi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Guangming Wu
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
- Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 190 Kai Yuan Avenue, Science Park, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Sergiy Velychko
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Caitlin M MacCarthy
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Borami Shin
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Albrecht Röpke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Münster, Vesaliusweg 12-14, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Marcos J Arauzo-Bravo
- Group of Computational Biology and Systems Biomedicine, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastian 20014, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao 48011, Spain
| | - Martin Stehling
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Dong Wook Han
- School of Biotechnology and Healthcare, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, China
| | - Yawei Gao
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Johnny Kim
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max-Planck-Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim 61231, Germany
| | - Shaorong Gao
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Hans R Schöler
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstrasse 20, Münster 48149, Germany.
- University of Münster, Medical Faculty, Domagkstrasse 3, Münster 48149, Germany
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Ashrafizadeh M, Taeb S, Hushmandi K, Orouei S, Shahinozzaman M, Zabolian A, Moghadam ER, Raei M, Zarrabi A, Khan H, Najafi M. Cancer and SOX proteins: New insight into their role in ovarian cancer progression/inhibition. Pharmacol Res 2020; 161:105159. [PMID: 32818654 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factors are potential targets in disease therapy, particularly in cancer. This is due to the fact that transcription factors regulate a variety of cellular events, and their modulation has opened a new window in cancer therapy. Sex-determining region Y (SRY)-related high-mobility group (HMG) box (SOX) proteins are potential transcription factors that are involved in developmental processes such as embryogenesis. It has been reported that abnormal expression of SOX proteins is associated with development of different cancers, particularly ovarian cancer (OC). In the present review, our aim is to provide a mechanistic review of involvement of SOX members in OC. SOX members may suppress and/or promote aggressiveness and proliferation of OC cells. Clinical studies have also confirmed the potential of transcription factors as diagnostic and prognostic factors in OC. Notably, studies have demonstrated the relationship between SOX members and other molecular pathways such as ST6Ga1-I, PI3K, ERK and so on, leading to more complexity. Furthermore, SOX members can be affected by upstream mediators such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and so on. It is worth mentioning that the expression of each member of SOX proteins is corelated with different stages of OC. Furthermore, their expression determines the response of OC cells to chemotherapy. These topics are discussed in this review to shed some light on role of SOX transcription factors in OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahram Taeb
- Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology & Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sima Orouei
- MSc. Student, Department of Genetics, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Md Shahinozzaman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Amirhossein Zabolian
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Rahmani Moghadam
- Department of Anatomical sciences, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Raei
- Health Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Tuzla, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey; Center of Excellence for Functional Surfaces and Interfaces (EFSUN), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla, Istanbul, 34956, Turkey.
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
| | - Masoud Najafi
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department, School of Paramedical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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