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Wang YC, Yuan Y, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Winston WYK, Liu CY. β-Catenin gain of function mutant in mouse periocular neural crest-derived mesenchymal cells impairs embryonic eyelid morphogenesis and leads to blepharophimosis syndrome in mice. Ocul Surf 2024; 34:S1542-0124(24)00092-2. [PMID: 39197676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aberrant canonical Wnt-β-catenin signaling can cause devastating outcomes of tissue morphogenesis and tumor formation. In this study, we examined the impact of overexpression of constitutive active β-catenin in mouse periocular neural crest-derived mesenchymal cells during embryonic eyelid morphogenesis. METHODS We expressed a stabilized β-catenin in which the exon 3 of the Ctnnb1 gene was deleted in periocular neural crest (PONC)-derived eyelid stromal cells (Ctnnb1Δex3-PONC). Histopathological examinations were performed to examine the eyelid morphogenetic alterations in Ctnnb1Δex3-PONC mice. Immunohistochemical investigations for cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation were also assessed. RESULTS We discovered that nuclear accumulation of β-catenin resulted in a reduction of nuclear Ki-67 and phospho-Erk1/2 expression levels and elevation of apoptosis in PONC cells during embryonic eyelid closure morphogenesis. Interestingly, however, the eyelid epithelial migration was not affected, which resulted in only eyelid epidermal closure but lacked underneath dermal formation at embryonic (E) day 16.5. The sequelae of Ctnnb1Δex3-PONC revealed the malformation of the eyelid margin and Meibomian gland and deficiency of Muller's smooth muscle fibers formation. Consequently, Ctnnb1Δex3-PONC mice manifested blepharophimosis syndrome at P21. CONCLUSION Our data suggested that aberrant expression of β-catenin gain of function in PONC interrupts the interplay between epithelium and stroma for the morphogenesis of eyelid closure during embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Chiao Wang
- Edith J. Crawley Vision Research Center/Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0838
| | - Yong Yuan
- Edith J. Crawley Vision Research Center/Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0838
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Edith J. Crawley Vision Research Center/Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0838
| | - Yujin Zhang
- Edith J. Crawley Vision Research Center/Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0838
| | - W-Y Kao Winston
- Edith J. Crawley Vision Research Center/Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0838
| | - Chia-Yang Liu
- Edith J. Crawley Vision Research Center/Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0838.
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2
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Richman J, Phelps M. Activin Signaling Pathway Specialization During Embryonic and Skeletal Muscle Development in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 26:766-775. [PMID: 39052141 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-024-10345-5] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Activin signaling is essential for proper embryonic, skeletal muscle, and reproductive development. Duplication of the pathway in teleost fish has enabled diversification of gene function across the pathway but how gene duplication influences the function of activin signaling in non-mammalian species is poorly understood. Full characterization of activin receptor signaling pathway expression was performed across embryonic development and during early skeletal muscle growth in rainbow trout (RBT, Oncorhynchus mykiss). Rainbow trout are a model salmonid species that have undergone two additional rounds of whole genome duplication. A small number of genes were expressed early in development and most genes increased expression throughout development. There was limited expression of activin Ab in RBT embryos despite these genes exhibiting significantly elevated expression in post-hatch skeletal muscle. CRISPR editing of the activin Aa1 ohnolog and subsequent production of meiotic gynogenetic offspring revealed that biallelic disruption of activin Aa1 did not result in developmental defects, as occurs with knockout of activin A in mammals. The majority of gynogenetic offspring exhibited homozygous activin Aa1 genotypes (wild type, in-frame, or frameshift) derived from the mosaic founder female. The research identifies mechanisms of specialization among the duplicated activin ohnologs across embryonic development and during periods of high muscle growth in larval and juvenile fish. The knowledge gained provides insights into potential viable gene-targeting approaches for engineering the activin receptor signaling pathway and establishes the feasibility of employing meiotic gynogenesis as a tool for producing homozygous F1 genome-edited fish for species with long-generation times, such as salmonids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Richman
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Michael Phelps
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
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3
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Richman JA, Davis LR, Phelps MP. Gene Function is a Driver of Activin Signaling Pathway Evolution Following Whole-Genome Duplication in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Genome Biol Evol 2024; 16:evae096. [PMID: 38701021 PMCID: PMC11110936 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evae096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The genomes of plant and animal species are influenced by ancestral whole-genome duplication (WGD) events, which have profound impacts on the regulation and function of gene networks. To gain insight into the consequences of WGD events, we characterized the sequence conservation and expression patterns of ohnologs in the highly duplicated activin receptor signaling pathway in rainbow trout (RBT). The RBT activin receptor signaling pathway is defined by tissue-specific expression of inhibitors and ligands and broad expression of receptors and Co-Smad signaling molecules. Signaling pathway ligands exhibited shared expression, while inhibitors and Smad signaling molecules primarily express a single dominant ohnolog. Our findings suggest that gene function influences ohnolog evolution following duplication of the activin signaling pathway in RBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine A Richman
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Leah R Davis
- College of the Environment, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael P Phelps
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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4
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Szukiewicz D. Current Insights in Prolactin Signaling and Ovulatory Function. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1976. [PMID: 38396659 PMCID: PMC10889014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25041976] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) is a pleiotropic hormone released from lactotrophic cells of the anterior pituitary gland that also originates from extrapituitary sources and plays an important role in regulating lactation in mammals, as well as other actions. Acting in an endocrine and paracrine/autocrine manner, PRL regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, thus influencing the maturation of ovarian follicles and ovulation. This review provides a detailed discussion of the current knowledge on the role of PRL in the context of ovulation and ovulatory disorders, particularly with regard to hyperprolactinemia, which is one of the most common causes of infertility in women. Much attention has been given to the PRL structure and the PRL receptor (PRLR), as well as the diverse functions of PRLR signaling under normal and pathological conditions. The hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle in connection with folliculogenesis and ovulation, as well as the current classifications of ovulation disorders, are also described. Finally, the state of knowledge regarding the importance of TIDA (tuberoinfundibular dopamine), KNDγ (kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin), and GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) neurons in PRL- and kisspeptin (KP)-dependent regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis in women is reviewed. Based on this review, a rationale for influencing PRL signaling pathways in therapeutic activities accompanying ovulation disorders is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Szukiewicz
- Department of Biophysics, Physiology & Pathophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
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5
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Hamang M, Yaden B, Dai G. Gastrointestinal pharmacology activins in liver health and disease. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 214:115668. [PMID: 37364623 PMCID: PMC11234865 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Activins are a subgroup of the TGFβ superfamily of growth and differentiation factors, dimeric in nature and consisting of two inhibin beta subunits linked via a disulfide bridge. Canonical activin signaling occurs through Smad2/3, with negative feedback initiated by Smad6/7 following signal transduction, which binds activin type I receptor preventing phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and activation of downstream signaling. In addition to Smad6/7, other inhibitors of activin signaling have been identified as well, including inhibins (dimers of an inhibin alpha and beta subunit), BAMBI, Cripto, follistatin, and follistatin-like 3 (fstl3). To date, activins A, B, AB, C, and E have been identified and isolated in mammals, with activin A and B having the most characterization of biological activity. Activin A has been implicated as a regulator of several important functions of liver biology, including hepatocyte proliferation and apoptosis, ECM production, and liver regeneration; the role of other subunits of activin in liver physiology are less understood. There is mounting data to suggest a link between dysregulation of activins contributing to various hepatic diseases such as inflammation, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, and emerging studies demonstrating the protective and regenerative effects of inhibiting activins in mouse models of liver disease. Due to their importance in liver biology, activins demonstrate utility as a therapeutic target for the treatment of hepatic diseases such as cirrhosis, NASH, NAFLD, and HCC; further research regarding activins may provide diagnostic or therapeutic opportunity for those suffering from various liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Hamang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, IN, United States.
| | - Benjamin Yaden
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, IN, United States.
| | - Guoli Dai
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, IN, United States.
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Verma S, Moreno IY, Trapp ME, Ramirez L, Gesteira TF, Coulson-Thomas VJ. Meibomian gland development: Where, when and how? Differentiation 2023; 132:41-50. [PMID: 37202278 PMCID: PMC11259229 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2023.04.005] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The Meibomian gland (MG) is an indispensable adnexal structure of eye that produces meibum, an important defensive component for maintaining ocular homeostasis. Normal development and maintenance of the MGs is required for ocular health since atrophic MGs and disturbances in composition and/or secretion of meibum result in major ocular pathologies, collectively termed as Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Currently available therapies for MGD merely provide symptomatic relief and do not treat the underlying deficiency of the MGs. Hence, a thorough understanding of the timeline of MG development, maturation and aging is required for regenerative purposes along with signaling molecules & pathways controlling proper differentiation of MG lineage in mammalian eye. Understanding the factors that contribute to the development of MGs, developmental abnormalities of MGs, and changes in the quality & quantity of meibum with developing phases of MGs are essential for developing potential treatments for MGD. In this review, we compiled a timeline of events and the factors involved in the structural and functional development of MGs and the associated developmental defects of MGs during development, maturation and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhir Verma
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Zoology, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Isabel Y Moreno
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Morgan E Trapp
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Luis Ramirez
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Novel Animal Model of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency Induced by Forcing Eye-Open at Birth. Cornea 2023:00003226-990000000-00244. [PMID: 36796015 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to develop a rat model of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) by forcing eye-open at birth (FEOB). METHODS A total of 200 Sprague-Dawley neonatal rats were randomly divided into the control group and the experimental group, which received eyelid open surgery on postnatal day 1 (P1). Observation time points were defined as P1, P5, P10, P15, and P30. Slit-lamp microscope and corneal confocal microscope were used to observe the clinical features of the model. The eyeballs were collected for hematoxylin and eosin staining and periodic acid-Schiff staining. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen, CD68/polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and cytokeratin 10/12/13 immunostaining were performed, while the ultrastructure of the cornea was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Real-time polymerase chain reactions (PCRs), western blot, and immunohistochemical staining of activin A receptor-like kinase-1/5 were used to analyze the possible pathogenesis. RESULTS FEOB could successfully induce the typical manifestations of LSCD, including corneal neovascularization, severe inflammation, and corneal opacity. In the FEOB group, goblet cells could be detected in the corneal epithelium by periodic acid-Schiff staining. The expression of cytokeratins was also different between the 2 groups. Furthermore, proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunohistochemical staining revealed the weak proliferation and differentiation ability of limbal epithelial stem cells in the FEOB group. Real-time PCRs, western blot, and immunohistochemical staining of activin A receptor-like kinase-1/activin A receptor-like kinase-5 in the FEOB group showed different expression patterns than those of the control group. CONCLUSIONS FEOB in rats induces ocular surface changes resembling LSCD in humans, representing a novel model of LSCD.
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Evans ET, Horst B, Arend RC, Mythreye K. Evolving roles of activins and inhibins in ovarian cancer pathophysiology. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C428-C437. [PMID: 36622068 PMCID: PMC9902228 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00178.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Activins and inhibins are unique members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) family of growth factors, with the ability to exert autocrine, endocrine, and paracrine effects in a wide range of complex physiologic and pathologic processes. Although first isolated within the pituitary, emerging evidence suggests broader influence beyond reproductive development and function. Known roles of activin and inhibin in angiogenesis and immunity along with correlations between gene expression and cancer prognosis suggest potential roles in tumorigenesis. Here, we present a review of the current understanding of the biological role of activins and inhibins as it relates to ovarian cancers, summarizing the underlying signaling mechanisms and physiologic influence, followed by detailing their roles in cancer progression, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth T Evans
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Ben Horst
- Department of Pathology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Rebecca C Arend
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Karthikeyan Mythreye
- Department of Pathology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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9
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Chan MKK, Chan ELY, Ji ZZ, Chan ASW, Li C, Leung KT, To KF, Tang PMK. Transforming growth factor-β signaling: from tumor microenvironment to anticancer therapy. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:316-343. [PMID: 37205317 PMCID: PMC10185444 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is an important pathway for promoting the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, including cancer. The roles of TGF-β signaling are heterogeneous and versatile in cancer development and progression, both anticancer and protumoral actions are reported. Interestingly, increasing evidence suggests that TGF-β enhances disease progression and drug resistance via immune-modulatory actions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of solid tumors. A better understanding of its regulatory mechanisms in the TME at the molecular level can facilitate the development of precision medicine to block the protumoral actions of TGF-β in the TME. Here, the latest information about the regulatory mechanisms and translational research of TGF-β signaling in the TME for therapeutic development had been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Kam-Kwan Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Emily Lok-Yiu Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Zoey Zeyuan Ji
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Alex Siu-Wing Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Chunjie Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Kam-Tong Leung
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Ka-Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Correspondence: Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China.
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10
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Genetic analysis of activin/inhibin β subunits in zebrafish development and reproduction. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010523. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin and inhibin are both dimeric proteins sharing the same β subunits that belong to the TGF-β superfamily. They are well known for stimulating and inhibiting pituitary FSH secretion, respectively, in mammals. In addition, activin also acts as a mesoderm-inducing factor in frogs. However, their functions in development and reproduction of other species are poorly defined. In this study, we disrupted all three activin/inhibin β subunits (βAa, inhbaa; βAb, inhbab; and βB, inhbb) in zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9. The loss of βAa/b but not βB led to a high mortality rate in the post-hatching stage. Surprisingly, the expression of fshb but not lhb in the pituitary increased in the female βA mutant together with aromatase (cyp19a1a) in the ovary. The single mutant of βAa/b showed normal folliculogenesis in young females; however, their double mutant (inhbaa-/-;inhbab-/-) showed delayed follicle activation, granulosa cell hypertrophy, stromal cell accumulation and tissue fibrosis. The ovary of inhbaa-/- deteriorated progressively after 180 dpf with reduced fecundity and the folliculogenesis ceased completely around 540 dpf. In addition, tumor- or cyst-like tissues started to appear in the inhbaa-/- ovary after about one year. In contrast to females, activin βAa/b mutant males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As for activin βB subunit, the inhbb-/- mutant exhibited normal folliculogenesis, spermatogenesis and fertility in both sexes; however, the fecundity of mutant females decreased dramatically at 270 dpf with accumulation of early follicles. In summary, the activin-inhibin system plays an indispensable role in fish reproduction, in particular folliculogenesis and ovarian homeostasis.
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Wen J, Ishihara T, Renfree MB, Griffith OW. Comparing the potential for maternal-fetal signalling in oviparous and viviparous lizards. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210262. [PMID: 36252210 PMCID: PMC9574625 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of a placenta requires several steps including changing the timing of reproductive events, facilitating nutrient exchange, and the capacity for maternal-fetal communication. To understand the evolution of maternal-fetal communication, we used ligand-receptor gene expression as a proxy for the potential for cross-talk in a live-bearing lizard (Pseudemoia entrecasteauxii) and homologous tissues in a related egg-laying lizard (Lampropholis guichenoti). Approximately 70% of expressed ligand/receptor genes were shared by both species. Gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that there was no GO-enrichment in the fetal membranes of the egg-laying species, but live-bearing fetal tissues were significantly enriched for 50 GO-terms. Differences in enrichment suggest that the evolution of viviparity involved reinforcing specific signalling pathways, perhaps to support fetal control of placentation. One identified change was in transforming growth factor beta signalling. Using immunohistochemistry, we show the production of the signalling molecule inhibin beta B (INHBB) occurs in viviparous fetal membranes but was absent in closely related egg-laying tissues, suggesting that the evolution of viviparity may have involved changes to signalling via this pathway. We argue that maternal-fetal signalling evolved through co-opting expressed signalling molecules and recruiting new signalling molecules to support the complex developmental changes required to support a fetus in utero. This article is part of the theme issue 'Extraembryonic tissues: exploring concepts, definitions and functions across the animal kingdom'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglin Wen
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Teruhito Ishihara
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Marilyn B. Renfree
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Oliver W. Griffith
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, New South Wales 2109, Australia
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Wang Y, Hamang M, Culver A, Jiang H, Yanum J, Garcia V, Lee J, White E, Kusumanchi P, Chalasani N, Liangpunsakul S, Yaden BC, Dai G. Activin B promotes the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:2812-2826. [PMID: 35866567 PMCID: PMC9512478 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.2037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of activin B, a transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily cytokine, in liver health and disease is largely unknown. We aimed to investigate whether activin B modulates liver fibrogenesis. Liver and serum activin B, along with its analog activin A, were analyzed in patients with liver fibrosis from different etiologies and in mouse acute and chronic liver injury models. Activin B, activin A, or both was immunologically neutralized in mice with progressive or established carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced liver fibrosis. Hepatic and circulating activin B was increased in human patients with liver fibrosis caused by several liver diseases. In mice, hepatic and circulating activin B exhibited persistent elevation following the onset of several types of liver injury, whereas activin A displayed transient increases. The results revealed a close correlation of activin B with liver injury regardless of etiology and species. Injured hepatocytes produced excessive activin B. Neutralizing activin B largely prevented, as well as improved, CCl4 -induced liver fibrosis, which was augmented by co-neutralizing activin A. Mechanistically, activin B mediated the activation of c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK), the induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, and the maintenance of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) expression in injured livers. Moreover, activin B directly induced a profibrotic expression profile in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and stimulated these cells to form a septa structure. Conclusions: We demonstrate that activin B, cooperating with activin A, mediates the activation or expression of JNK, iNOS, and PARP1 and the activation of HSCs, driving the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Matthew Hamang
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Alexander Culver
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Huaizhou Jiang
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Jennifer Yanum
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Veronica Garcia
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Joonyong Lee
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Emily White
- College of ScienceDepartment of Biological SciencesPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
| | - Praveen Kusumanchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Naga Chalasani
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Suthat Liangpunsakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
- Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Benjamin C. Yaden
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Guoli Dai
- Department of BiologySchool of ScienceCenter for Developmental and Regenerative BiologyIndiana University–Purdue University IndianapolisIndianapolisIndianaUSA
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Yomogita H, Miyasaka N, Kanai-Azuma M. A Review of Delayed Delivery Models and the Analysis Method in Mice. J Dev Biol 2022; 10:jdb10020020. [PMID: 35645296 PMCID: PMC9149829 DOI: 10.3390/jdb10020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, the incidence of post-term delivery is 1–10%. Post-term delivery significantly increases the risk of cesarean section or neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. Despite these serious challenges, the cause of prolonged delivery remains unclear. Several common factors of delayed parturition between mice and humans will help elucidate the mechanisms of pregnancy and labor. At present, gene modification techniques are rapidly developing; however, there are limited reviews available describing the mouse phenotype analysis as a human model for post-term delivery. We classified the delayed-labor mice into nine types according to their causes. In mice, progesterone (P₄) maintains pregnancy, and the most common cause of delayed labor is luteolysis failure. Other contributing factors include humoral molecules in the fetus/placenta, uterine contractile dysfunction, poor cervical ripening, and delayed implantation. The etiology of delayed parturition is overexpression of the pregnancy maintenance mechanism or suppression of the labor induction mechanism. Here, we describe how to investigated their causes using mouse genetic analysis. In addition, we generated a list to identify the causes. Our review will help understand the findings obtained using the mouse model, providing a foundation for conducting more systematic research on delayed delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yomogita
- Department of Perinatal and Women’s Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan; (H.Y.); (N.M.)
- Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Miyasaka
- Department of Perinatal and Women’s Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan; (H.Y.); (N.M.)
| | - Masami Kanai-Azuma
- Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +813-3813-6111
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14
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Tian S, Zhang H, Chang HM, Klausen C, Huang HF, Jin M, Leung PCK. Activin a promotes hyaluronan production and upregulates versican expression in human granulosa cells via the ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:458-473. [PMID: 35403677 PMCID: PMC9382401 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyaluronan is a structural component of the expanded cumulus matrix, and hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) is the major enzyme for the synthesis of hyaluronan in humans. Versican cross-links the hyaluronan-rich matrix to cumulus cells and is critical for successful ovulation. Activin A is a critical intrafollicular regulator of ovarian function. Although activin A has been shown to promote cumulus matrix expansion in mice, the functional role of activin A in the regulation of cumulus expansion in the human ovary remains to be elucidated. Using primary and immortalized human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells as study models, we provide the first data showing that activin A increased the production of hyaluronan by upregulating the expression of HAS2 in these cells. Additionally, activin A also promoted the expression of the hyaluronan-binding protein versican. Moreover, using inhibitor- and siRNA-mediated inhibition approaches, we found that these stimulatory effects of activin A are most likely mediated through the type I receptor ALK4-mediated SMAD2/SMAD3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Notably, the ChIP analyses demonstrated that SMAD4 could bind to human HAS2 and VERSICAN promoters. The results obtained from this in vitro study suggest that locally produced activin A plays a functional role in the regulation of hyaluronan production and stabilization in hGL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Tian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Christian Klausen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - He-Feng Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education (Zhejiang University), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Jin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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15
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Houston BJ, O'Connor AE, Wang D, Goodchild G, Merriner DJ, Luan H, Conrad DF, Nagirnaja L, Aston KI, Kliesch S, Wyrwoll MJ, Friedrich C, Tüttelmann F, Harrison C, O'Bryan MK, Walton K. Human INHBB Gene Variant (c.1079T>C:p.Met360Thr) Alters Testis Germ Cell Content, but Does Not Impact Fertility in Mice. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6504015. [PMID: 35022746 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Testicular-derived inhibin B (α/β B dimers) acts in an endocrine manner to suppress pituitary production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), by blocking the actions of activins (β A/B/β A/B dimers). Previously, we identified a homozygous genetic variant (c.1079T>C:p.Met360Thr) arising from uniparental disomy of chromosome 2 in the INHBB gene (β B-subunit of inhibin B and activin B) in a man suffering from infertility (azoospermia). In this study, we aimed to test the causality of the p.Met360Thr variant in INHBB and testis function. Here, we used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to generate InhbbM364T/M364T mice, where mouse INHBB p.Met364 corresponds with human p.Met360. Surprisingly, we found that the testes of male InhbbM364T/M364T mutant mice were significantly larger compared with those of aged-matched wildtype littermates at 12 and 24 weeks of age. This was attributed to a significant increase in Sertoli cell and round spermatid number and, consequently, seminiferous tubule area in InhbbM364T/M364T males compared to wildtype males. Despite this testis phenotype, male InhbbM364T/M364T mutant mice retained normal fertility. Serum hormone analyses, however, indicated that the InhbbM364T variant resulted in reduced circulating levels of activin B but did not affect FSH production. We also examined the effect of this p.Met360Thr and an additional INHBB variant (c.314C>T: p.Thr105Met) found in another infertile man on inhibin B and activin B in vitro biosynthesis. We found that both INHBB variants resulted in a significant disruption to activin B in vitro biosynthesis. Together, this analysis supports that INHBB variants that limit activin B production have consequences for testis composition in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Houston
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Anne E O'Connor
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Degang Wang
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- The Affiliated Zhongshan Boai Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangdong, China
| | - Georgia Goodchild
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - D Jo Merriner
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Haitong Luan
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Don F Conrad
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative, GEMINI, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Liina Nagirnaja
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative, GEMINI, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative, GEMINI, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Surgery (Urology Division) University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Margot J Wyrwoll
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Corinna Friedrich
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Craig Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Kelly Walton
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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16
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Petca A, Miron BC, Pacu I, Dumitrașcu MC, Mehedințu C, Șandru F, Petca RC, Rotar IC. HELLP Syndrome—Holistic Insight into Pathophysiology. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58020326. [PMID: 35208649 PMCID: PMC8875732 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
HELLP syndrome, also known as the syndrome of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets, represents a severe pregnancy complication typically associated with hypertension. It is associated with increased risks of adverse complications for both mother and fetus. HELLP occurs in 0.2–0.8% of pregnancies, and, in 70–80% of cases, it coexists with preeclampsia (PE). Both of these conditions show a familial tendency. A woman with a history of HELLP pregnancy is at high risk for developing this entity in subsequent pregnancies. We cannot nominate a single worldwide genetic cause for the increased risk of HELLP. Combinations of multiple gene variants, each with a moderate risk, with concurrent maternal and environmental factors are thought to be the etiological mechanisms. This review highlights the significant role of understanding the underlying pathophysiological mechanism of HELLP syndrome. A better knowledge of the disease’s course supports early detection, an accurate diagnosis, and proper management of this life-threatening condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Petca
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (M.C.D.); (C.M.); (F.Ș.); (R.-C.P.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Elias University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bianca Corina Miron
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (M.C.D.); (C.M.); (F.Ș.); (R.-C.P.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Elias University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (B.C.M.); (I.P.); Tel.: +40-757-917889 (B.C.M.); +40-722-787327 (I.P.)
| | - Irina Pacu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (M.C.D.); (C.M.); (F.Ș.); (R.-C.P.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Sf. Pantelimon” Emergency Clinical Hospital, 021623 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (B.C.M.); (I.P.); Tel.: +40-757-917889 (B.C.M.); +40-722-787327 (I.P.)
| | - Mihai Cristian Dumitrașcu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (M.C.D.); (C.M.); (F.Ș.); (R.-C.P.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Claudia Mehedințu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (M.C.D.); (C.M.); (F.Ș.); (R.-C.P.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Malaxa Clinical Hospital, 022441 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florica Șandru
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (M.C.D.); (C.M.); (F.Ș.); (R.-C.P.)
- Department of Dermatology, Elias University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Răzvan-Cosmin Petca
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (M.C.D.); (C.M.); (F.Ș.); (R.-C.P.)
- Department of Urology, “Prof. Dr. Th. Burghele” Clinical Hospital, 050659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Cristina Rotar
- “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emergency Clinical County Hospital Cluj-Napoca, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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17
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Wang X, Yin L, Wen Y, Yuan S. Mitochondrial regulation during male germ cell development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:91. [PMID: 35072818 PMCID: PMC11072027 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04134-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria tailor their morphology to execute their specialized functions in different cell types and/or different environments. During spermatogenesis, mitochondria undergo continuous morphological and distributional changes with germ cell development. Deficiencies in these processes lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and abnormal spermatogenesis, thereby causing male infertility. In recent years, mitochondria have attracted considerable attention because of their unique role in the regulation of piRNA biogenesis in male germ cells. In this review, we describe the varied characters of mitochondria and focus on key mitochondrial factors that play pivotal roles in the regulation of spermatogenesis, from primordial germ cells to spermatozoa, especially concerning metabolic shift, stemness and reprogramming, mitochondrial transformation and rearrangement, and mitochondrial defects in human sperm. Further, we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lisha Yin
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Laboratory Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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18
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Abstract
In vitro systems capable of reconstituting the process of mouse oogenesis are now being established to help develop further understanding of the mechanisms underlying oocyte/follicle development and differentiation. These systems could also help increase the production of useful livestock or genetically modified animals, and aid in identifying the causes of infertility in humans. Recently, we revealed, using an in vitro system for recapitulating oogenesis, that the activation of the estrogen signaling pathway induces abnormal follicle formation, that blocking estrogen-induced expression of anti-Müllerian hormone is crucial for normal follicle formation, and that the production of α-fetoprotein in fetal liver tissue is involved in normal in vivo follicle formation. In mouse fetuses, follicle formation is not carried out by factors within the ovaries but is instead orchestrated by distal endocrine factors. This review outlines findings from genetics, endocrinology, and in vitro studies regarding the factors that can affect the formation of primordial follicles in mammals.
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19
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Kumari R, Irudayam MJ, Al Abdallah Q, Jones TL, Mims TS, Puchowicz MA, Pierre JF, Brown CW. SMAD2 and SMAD3 differentially regulate adiposity and the growth of subcutaneous white adipose tissue. FASEB J 2021; 35:e22018. [PMID: 34731499 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101244r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Adipose tissue is the primary site of energy storage, playing important roles in health. While adipose research largely focuses on obesity, fat also has other critical functions, producing adipocytokines and contributing to normal nutrient metabolism, which in turn play important roles in satiety and total energy homeostasis. SMAD2/3 proteins are downstream mediators of activin signaling, which regulate critical preadipocyte and mature adipocyte functions. Smad2 global knockout mice exhibit embryonic lethality, whereas global loss of Smad3 protects mice against diet-induced obesity. The direct contributions of Smad2 and Smad3 in adipose tissues, however, are unknown. Here, we sought to determine the primary effects of adipocyte-selective reduction of Smad2 or Smad3 on diet-induced adiposity using Smad2 or Smad3 "floxed" mice intercrossed with Adiponectin-Cre mice. Additionally, we examined visceral and subcutaneous preadipocyte differentiation efficiency in vitro. Almost all wild type subcutaneous preadipocytes differentiated into mature adipocytes. In contrast, visceral preadipocytes differentiated poorly. Exogenous activin A suppressed differentiation of preadipocytes from both depots. Smad2 conditional knockout (Smad2cKO) mice did not exhibit significant effects on weight gain, irrespective of diet, whereas Smad3 conditional knockout (Smad3cKO) male mice displayed a trend of reduced body weight on high-fat diet. On both diets, Smad3cKO mice displayed an adipose depot-selective phenotype, with a significant reduction in subcutaneous fat mass but not visceral fat mass. Our data suggest that Smad3 is an important contributor to the maintenance of subcutaneous white adipose tissue in a sex-selective fashion. These findings have implications for understanding SMAD-mediated, depot selective regulation of adipocyte growth and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Kumari
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Maria Johnson Irudayam
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Qusai Al Abdallah
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tamekia L Jones
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Children's Foundation Research Institute, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tahliyah S Mims
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michelle A Puchowicz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Joseph F Pierre
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Chester W Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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20
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Li Z, He X, Zhang X, Zhang J, Guo X, Sun W, Chu M. Analysis of Expression Profiles of CircRNA and MiRNA in Oviduct during the Follicular and Luteal Phases of Sheep with Two Fecundity ( FecB Gene) Genotypes. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102826. [PMID: 34679847 PMCID: PMC8532869 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
CircRNA and miRNA, as classes of non-coding RNA, have been found to play pivotal roles in sheep reproduction. There are many reports of circRNA and miRNA in the ovary and uterus, but few in the oviduct. In this study, RNA-Seq was performed to analyze the expression profile of circRNA and miRNA in the oviduct during the follicular phase and luteal phase of sheep with FecBBB and FecB++ genotypes. The results showed that a total of 3223 circRNAs and 148 miRNAs were identified. A total of 15 DE circRNAs and 40 DE miRNAs were found in the comparison between the follicular phase and luteal phase, and 1 DE circRNA and 18 DE miRNAs were found in the comparison between the FecBBB genotype and FecB++ genotype. GO and KEGG analyses showed that the host genes of DE circRNAs were mainly enriched in the Rap1 signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions. Novel_circ_0004065, novel_circ_0005109, novel_circ_0012086, novel_circ_0014274 and novel_circ_0001794 were found to be possibly involved in the oviductal reproduction process. GO and KEGG analyses showed that the target genes of DE miRNAs were mainly enriched in insulin secretion, the cAMP signaling pathway, the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway, the Rap1 signaling pathway and the TGF-β signaling pathway, and the target genes LPAR1, LPAR2, FGF18, TACR3, BMP6, SMAD4, INHBB, SKP1 and TGFBR2 were found to be associated with the reproductive process. Miranda software was used to identify 27 miRNAs that may bind to 13 DE circRNAs, including miR-22-3p (target to novel_circ_0004065), miR-127, miR-136 (target to novel_circ_0000417), miR-27a (target to novel_circ_0014274) and oar-miR-181a (target to novel_circ_ 0017815). The results of this study will help to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs and miRNAs in sheep reproduction. Our study, although not establishing direct causal relationships of the circRNA and miRNA changes, enriches the sheep circRNA and miRNA database and provides a basis for further studies on sheep reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Z.L.); (X.H.)
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Z.L.); (X.H.)
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China; (X.Z.); (J.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China; (X.Z.); (J.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Xiaofei Guo
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China; (X.Z.); (J.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Wei Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, The Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: (W.S.); (M.C.); Tel.: +86-0514-8797-9213 (W.S.); +86-010-6281-9850 (M.C.)
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (Z.L.); (X.H.)
- Correspondence: (W.S.); (M.C.); Tel.: +86-0514-8797-9213 (W.S.); +86-010-6281-9850 (M.C.)
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21
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Qiu W, Kuo CY, Tian Y, Su GH. Dual Roles of the Activin Signaling Pathway in Pancreatic Cancer. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9070821. [PMID: 34356885 PMCID: PMC8301451 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, is involved in many physiological processes, such as embryonic development and follicle development, as well as in multiple human diseases including cancer. Genetic mutations in the activin signaling pathway have been reported in many cancer types, indicating that activin signaling plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. Recent evidence reveals that activin signaling may function as a tumor-suppressor in tumor initiation, and a promoter in the later progression and metastasis of tumors. This article reviews many aspects of activin, including the signaling cascade of activin, activin-related proteins, and its role in tumorigenesis, particularly in pancreatic cancer development. The mechanisms regulating its dual roles in tumorigenesis remain to be elucidated. Further understanding of the activin signaling pathway may identify potential therapeutic targets for human cancers and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanglong Qiu
- The Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; (W.Q.); (C.K.); (Y.T.)
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Chia-Yu Kuo
- The Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; (W.Q.); (C.K.); (Y.T.)
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Yu Tian
- The Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; (W.Q.); (C.K.); (Y.T.)
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Gloria H. Su
- The Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; (W.Q.); (C.K.); (Y.T.)
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Correspondence:
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22
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Ibáñez CF. Regulation of metabolic homeostasis by the TGF-β superfamily receptor ALK7. FEBS J 2021; 289:5776-5797. [PMID: 34173336 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
ALK7 (Activin receptor-like kinase 7) is a member of the TGF-β receptor superfamily predominantly expressed by cells and tissues involved in endocrine functions, such as neurons of the hypothalamus and pituitary, pancreatic β-cells and adipocytes. Recent studies have begun to delineate the processes regulated by ALK7 in these tissues and how these become integrated with the homeostatic regulation of mammalian metabolism. The picture emerging indicates that ALK7's primary function in metabolic regulation is to limit catabolic activities and preserve energy. Aside of the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus, the function of ALK7 elsewhere in the brain, particularly in the cerebellum, where it is abundantly expressed, remains to be elucidated. Although our understanding of the basic molecular events underlying ALK7 signaling has benefited from the vast knowledge available on TGF-β receptor mechanisms, how these connect to the physiological functions regulated by ALK7 in different cell types is still incompletely understood. Findings of missense and nonsense variants in the Acvr1c gene, encoding ALK7, of some mouse strains and human subjects indicate a tolerance to ALK7 loss of function. Recent discoveries suggest that specific inhibitors of ALK7 may have therapeutic applications in obesity and metabolic syndrome without overt adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos F Ibáñez
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University School of Life Sciences and Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.,Department of Physiology and Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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23
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Chen B, Wang HL, Chen R, Chen L, Yang S, Wang Y, Xue ZF. An L314Q mutation in Map3k1 gene results in failure of eyelid fusion in the N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-induced mutant line. Exp Anim 2021; 70:459-468. [PMID: 34078823 PMCID: PMC8614015 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.21-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we describe an N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-induced mouse model with a corneal opacity phenotype that was associated with “eye open at birth” (EOB). Histological and immunohistochemistry staining analysis showed abnormal differentiation of the corneal epithelial cells in the mutant mice. The EOB phenotype was dominantly inherited on a C57BL/6 (B6) background. This allele carries a T941A substitution in exon 4 that leads to an L314Q amino acid change in the open reading frame of MAP3K1 (MEEK1). We named this novel Map3k1 allele Map3k1L314Q. Phalloidin staining of F-actin was reduced in the mutant epithelial leading edge cells, which is indicative of abnormality in epithelial cell migration. Interestingly enough, not only p-c-Jun and p-JNK but also c-Jun levels were decreased in the mutant epithelial leading edge cells. This study identifies a novel mouse Map3k1 allele causing EOB phenotype and the EOB phenotype in Map3k1L314Q mouse may be associated with the reduced level of p-JNK and c-Jun.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, Yangzhou University.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University
| | | | - Rui Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University
| | - Li Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University
| | - Shun Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University
| | - Yi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University
| | - Zheng-Feng Xue
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, Yangzhou University.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University
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24
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Heinrich A, Potter SJ, Guo L, Ratner N, DeFalco T. Distinct Roles for Rac1 in Sertoli Cell Function during Testicular Development and Spermatogenesis. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107513. [PMID: 32294451 PMCID: PMC7213061 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.03.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells are supporting cells of the testicular seminiferous tubules, which provide a nurturing environment for spermatogenesis. Adult Sertoli cells are polarized so that they can simultaneously support earlier-stage spermatogenic cells (e.g., spermatogonia) basally and later-stage cells (e.g., spermatids) apically. To test the consequences of disrupting cell polarity in Sertoli cells, we perform a Sertoli-specific conditional deletion of Rac1, which encodes a Rho GTPase required for apicobasal cell polarity. Rac1 conditional knockout adults exhibit spermatogenic arrest at the round spermatid stage, with severe disruption of Sertoli cell polarity, and show increased germline and Sertoli cell apoptosis. Thus, Sertoli Rac1 function is critical for the progression of spermatogenesis but, surprisingly, is dispensable for fetal testicular development, adult maintenance of undifferentiated spermatogonia, and meiotic entry. Our data indicate that Sertoli Rac1 function is required only for certain aspects of spermatogenesis and reveal that there are distinct requirements for cell polarity during cellular differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Heinrich
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Sarah J Potter
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Li Guo
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
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25
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Cloutier JK, McMann CL, Oderberg IM, Reddien PW. activin-2 is required for regeneration of polarity on the planarian anterior-posterior axis. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009466. [PMID: 33780442 PMCID: PMC8057570 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Planarians are flatworms and can perform whole-body regeneration. This ability involves a mechanism to distinguish between anterior-facing wounds that require head regeneration and posterior-facing wounds that require tail regeneration. How this head-tail regeneration polarity decision is made is studied to identify principles underlying tissue-identity specification in regeneration. We report that inhibition of activin-2, which encodes an Activin-like signaling ligand, resulted in the regeneration of ectopic posterior-facing heads following amputation. During tissue turnover in uninjured planarians, positional information is constitutively expressed in muscle to maintain proper patterning. Positional information includes Wnts expressed in the posterior and Wnt antagonists expressed in the anterior. Upon amputation, several wound-induced genes promote re-establishment of positional information. The head-versus-tail regeneration decision involves preferential wound induction of the Wnt antagonist notum at anterior-facing over posterior-facing wounds. Asymmetric activation of notum represents the earliest known molecular distinction between head and tail regeneration, yet how it occurs is unknown. activin-2 RNAi animals displayed symmetric wound-induced activation of notum at anterior- and posterior-facing wounds, providing a molecular explanation for their ectopic posterior-head phenotype. activin-2 RNAi animals also displayed anterior-posterior (AP) axis splitting, with two heads appearing in anterior blastemas, and various combinations of heads and tails appearing in posterior blastemas. This was associated with ectopic nucleation of anterior poles, which are head-tip muscle cells that facilitate AP and medial-lateral (ML) pattern at posterior-facing wounds. These findings reveal a role for Activin signaling in determining the outcome of AP-axis-patterning events that are specific to regeneration. A central problem in animal regeneration is how animals determine what body part to regenerate. Planarians are flatworms that can regenerate any missing body region, and are studied to identify mechanisms underlying regeneration. At transverse amputation planes, a poorly understood mechanism specifies regeneration of either a head or a tail. This head-versus-tail regeneration decision-making process is referred to as regeneration polarity and has been studied for over a century to identify mechanisms that specify what to regenerate. The gene notum, which encodes a Wnt antagonist, is induced within hours after injury preferentially at anterior-facing wounds, where it specifies head regeneration. We report that Activin signaling is required for regeneration polarity, and the underlying asymmetric activation of notum at anterior- over posterior-facing wounds. We propose that Activin signaling is involved in regeneration-specific responses broadly in the animal kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K. Cloutier
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, United States of America
- Harvard/MIT MD-PhD, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Conor L. McMann
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, United States of America
| | - Isaac M. Oderberg
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, United States of America
| | - Peter W. Reddien
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Schang G, Ongaro L, Schultz H, Wang Y, Zhou X, Brûlé E, Boehm U, Lee SJ, Bernard DJ. Murine FSH Production Depends on the Activin Type II Receptors ACVR2A and ACVR2B. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5818077. [PMID: 32270195 PMCID: PMC7286621 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Activins are selective regulators of FSH production by pituitary gonadotrope cells. In a gonadotrope-like cell line, LβT2, activins stimulate FSH via the activin type IIA receptor (ACVR2A) and/or bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor (BMPR2). Consistent with these observations, FSH is greatly reduced, though still present, in global Acvr2a knockout mice. In contrast, FSH production is unaltered in gonadotrope-specific Bmpr2 knockout mice. In light of these results, we questioned whether an additional type II receptor might mediate the actions of activins or related TGF-β ligands in gonadotropes. We focused on the activin type IIB receptor (ACVR2B), even though it does not mediate activin actions in LβT2 cells. Using a Cre-lox strategy, we ablated Acvr2a and/or Acvr2b in murine gonadotropes. The resulting conditional knockout (cKO) animals were compared with littermate controls. Acvr2a cKO (cKO-A) females were subfertile (~70% reduced litter size), cKO-A males were hypogonadal, and both sexes showed marked decreases in serum FSH levels compared with controls. Acvr2b cKO (cKO-B) females were subfertile (~20% reduced litter size), cKO-B males had a moderate decrease in testicular weight, but only males showed a significant decrease in serum FSH levels relative to controls. Simultaneous deletion of both Acvr2a and Acvr2b in gonadotropes led to profound hypogonadism and FSH deficiency in both sexes; females were acyclic and sterile. Collectively, these data demonstrate that ACVR2A and ACVR2B are the critical type II receptors through which activins or related TGF-β ligands induce FSH production in mice in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Hailey Schultz
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Emilie Brûlé
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling, Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Se-Jin Lee
- The Jackson Laboratory, Farmington, Connecticut
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Correspondence: Daniel J. Bernard, PhD, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler room 1320, Montreal H3G 1Y6, QC, Canada. E-mail:
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27
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Leon K, Hennebold JD, Fei SS, Young KA. Transcriptome analysis during photostimulated recrudescence reveals distinct patterns of gene regulation in Siberian hamster ovaries†. Biol Reprod 2020; 102:539-559. [PMID: 31724051 PMCID: PMC7068109 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In Siberian hamsters, exposure to short days (SDs, 8 h light:16 h dark) reduces reproductive function centrally by decreasing gonadotropin secretion, whereas subsequent transfer of photoinhibited hamsters to stimulatory long days (LDs, 16 L:8 D) promotes follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) release inducing ovarian recrudescence. Although differences between SD and LD ovaries have been investigated, a systematic investigation of the ovarian transcriptome across photoperiod groups to identify potentially novel factors that contribute to photostimulated restoration of ovarian function had not been conducted. Hamsters were assigned to one of four photoperiod groups: LD to maintain ovarian cyclicity, SD to induce ovarian regression, or post transfer (PT), where females housed in SD for 14-weeks were transferred to LD for 2-days or 1-week to reflect photostimulated ovaries prior to (PTd2) and following (PTw1) the return of systemic FSH. Ovarian RNA was extracted to create RNA-sequencing libraries and short-read sequencing Illumina assays that mapped and quantified the ovarian transcriptomes (n = 4/group). Ovarian and uterine masses, plasma FSH, and numbers of antral follicles and corpora lutea decreased in SD as compared to LD ovaries (P < 0.05). When reads were aligned to the mouse genome, 18 548 genes were sufficiently quantified. Most of the differentially expressed genes noted between functional LD ovaries and regressed SD ovaries; however, five main expression patterns were identified across photoperiod groups. These results, generally corroborated by select protein immunostaining, provide a map of photoregulated ovary function and identify novel genes that may contribute to the photostimulated resumption of ovarian activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Leon
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, California, USA
| | - Jon D Hennebold
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Suzanne S Fei
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Core, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Kelly A Young
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, California, USA
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28
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van Lieshout LCEW, Koek GH, Spaanderman MA, van Runnard Heimel PJ. Placenta derived factors involved in the pathogenesis of the liver in the syndrome of haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLP): A review. Pregnancy Hypertens 2019; 18:42-48. [PMID: 31494464 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM With this review we try to unravel if placenta-derived factors are able to initiate liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) decay in HELLP syndrome and eventually cause the development of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS). BACKGROUND Haemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelets (HELLP) syndrome is a severe complication of pregnancy. It is characterized by elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count and haemolytic anaemia. The risk of developing HELLP syndrome within a pregnancy is 0.1-0.8%. The mortality rate among women with HELLP syndrome is 0-24% and the perinatal death goes up to 37%. The aetiology of HELLP syndrome is not fully understood but the pathogenesis of the liver pathology in the HELLP syndrome resembles that of a SOS with endothelial damage of the LSECs which ultimately leads to liver failure. OBJECTIVES We hypothesize that placenta derived factors cause LSEC damage and thereby liver dysfunction. METHODS We searched in the PubMed database for relevant articles about placenta derived factors involved in endothelial activation especially in the liver. We yielded eventually 55 relevant articles. RESULTS Based on this literature search we associate that in HELLP syndrome there is an increase of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFR), soluble endoglin (sEng), galectin-1 (Gal-1), endothelin-1 (ET-1), Angiopoietin 2 (Angs-2), Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), activin B, inhibin A, Fas ligand (FasL) and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70). CONCLUSION We assume that these eleven increased placenta derived factors are responsible for LSEC damage which eventually leads to liver failure. This concept shows a possible design of the complicated pathophysiology in HELLP syndrome. However further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C E W van Lieshout
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.
| | - G H Koek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Netherlands; Department of Surgery, Klinikum RWTH Aachen, Germany
| | - M A Spaanderman
- Department of Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Netherlands
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29
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Morabito M, Larcher M, Cavalli FM, Foray C, Forget A, Mirabal-Ortega L, Andrianteranagna M, Druillennec S, Garancher A, Masliah-Planchon J, Leboucher S, Debalkew A, Raso A, Delattre O, Puget S, Doz F, Taylor MD, Ayrault O, Bourdeaut F, Eychène A, Pouponnot C. An autocrine ActivinB mechanism drives TGFβ/Activin signaling in Group 3 medulloblastoma. EMBO Mol Med 2019; 11:e9830. [PMID: 31328883 PMCID: PMC6685082 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201809830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a pediatric tumor of the cerebellum divided into four groups. Group 3 is of bad prognosis and remains poorly characterized. While the current treatment involving surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy often fails, no alternative therapy is yet available. Few recurrent genomic alterations that can be therapeutically targeted have been identified. Amplifications of receptors of the TGFβ/Activin pathway occur at very low frequency in Group 3 MB. However, neither their functional relevance nor activation of the downstream signaling pathway has been studied. We showed that this pathway is activated in Group 3 MB with some samples showing a very strong activation. Beside genetic alterations, we demonstrated that an ActivinB autocrine stimulation is responsible for pathway activation in a subset of Group 3 MB characterized by high PMEPA1 levels. Importantly, Galunisertib, a kinase inhibitor of the cognate receptors currently tested in clinical trials for Glioblastoma patients, showed efficacy on orthotopically grafted MB‐PDX. Our data demonstrate that the TGFβ/Activin pathway is active in a subset of Group 3 MB and can be therapeutically targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Morabito
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Magalie Larcher
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Florence Mg Cavalli
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Chloé Foray
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Forget
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Liliana Mirabal-Ortega
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Mamy Andrianteranagna
- PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Institut Curie, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Paris, France.,Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, Institut Curie SiRIC, Paris, France.,SIREDO Center (Care, innovation, Research in pediatric, adolescent and young adult oncology), Institut Curie, Paris, France.,INSERM, U900, Paris, France.,MINES ParisTech, CBIO-Centre for Computational Biology, Paris, France
| | - Sabine Druillennec
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Garancher
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Julien Masliah-Planchon
- PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Institut Curie, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Paris, France.,SIREDO Center (Care, innovation, Research in pediatric, adolescent and young adult oncology), Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Leboucher
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
| | - Abel Debalkew
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alessandro Raso
- Department of Patology, ASL 3 Genovese, SC Laboratorio d'Analisi, Genova, Italy
| | - Olivier Delattre
- PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Institut Curie, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Paris, France.,SIREDO Center (Care, innovation, Research in pediatric, adolescent and young adult oncology), Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Puget
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.,Département Neurochirurgie Pédiatrique, AP-HP, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - François Doz
- Institut Curie, Paris, France.,SIREDO Center (Care, innovation, Research in pediatric, adolescent and young adult oncology), Institut Curie, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Michael D Taylor
- The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Neurosurgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Olivier Ayrault
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Franck Bourdeaut
- PSL Research University, Paris, France.,Institut Curie, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Paris, France.,Translational Research in Pediatric Oncology, Institut Curie SiRIC, Paris, France.,SIREDO Center (Care, innovation, Research in pediatric, adolescent and young adult oncology), Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Alain Eychène
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Celio Pouponnot
- Institut Curie, Orsay, France.,INSERM U1021, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,CNRS UMR 3347, Centre Universitaire, Orsay, France.,University Paris Sud - Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France.,PSL Research University, Paris, France
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30
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A Role for Sensory end Organ-Derived Signals in Regulating Muscle Spindle Proprioceptor Phenotype. J Neurosci 2019; 39:4252-4267. [PMID: 30926747 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2671-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Proprioceptive feedback from Group Ia/II muscle spindle afferents and Group Ib Golgi tendon afferents is critical for the normal execution of most motor tasks, yet how these distinct proprioceptor subtypes emerge during development remains poorly understood. Using molecular genetic approaches in mice of either sex, we identified 24 transcripts that have not previously been associated with a proprioceptor identity. Combinatorial expression analyses of these markers reveal at least three molecularly distinct proprioceptor subtypes. In addition, we find that 12 of these transcripts are expressed well after proprioceptors innervate their respective sensory receptors, and expression of three of these markers, including the heart development molecule Heg1, is significantly reduced in mice that lack muscle spindles. These data reveal Heg1 as a putative marker for proprioceptive muscle spindle afferents. Moreover, they suggest that the phenotypic specialization of functionally distinct proprioceptor subtypes depends, in part, on extrinsic sensory receptor organ-derived signals.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Sensory feedback from muscle spindle (MS) and Golgi tendon organ (GTO) sensory end organs is critical for normal motor control, but how distinct MS and GTO afferent sensory neurons emerge during development remains poorly understood. Using (bulk) transcriptome analysis of genetically identified proprioceptors, this work reveals molecular markers for distinct proprioceptor subsets, including some that appear selectively expressed in MS afferents. Detailed analysis of the expression of these transcripts provides evidence that MS/GTO afferent subtype phenotypes may, at least in part, emerge through extrinsic, sensory end organ-derived signals.
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31
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Ongaro L, Schang G, Ho CC, Zhou X, Bernard DJ. TGF-β Superfamily Regulation of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Synthesis by Gonadotrope Cells: Is There a Role for Bone Morphogenetic Proteins? Endocrinology 2019; 160:675-683. [PMID: 30715256 PMCID: PMC6388655 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-01038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are pleiotropic ligands in the TGF-β superfamily. In the early to mid-2000s, several BMPs, including BMP2, were shown to regulate FSH synthesis alone and in synergy with activins in immortalized gonadotrope-like cell lines and primary pituitary cultures. Activins are also TGF-β family members, which were identified and named based on their abilities to stimulate FSH production selectively. Mechanistic analyses suggested that BMP2 promoted expression of the FSHβ subunit gene (Fshb) via at least two nonmutually exclusive mechanisms. First, BMP2 stimulated the production of the inhibitor of DNA-binding proteins 1, 2, and 3 (Id1, Id2, and Id3), which potentiated the stimulatory actions of homolog of Drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic 3 (SMAD3) on the Fshb promoter. SMAD3 is an intracellular signaling protein that canonically mediates the actions of activins and is an essential regulator of Fshb production in vitro and in vivo. Second, BMP2 was shown to activate SMAD3-dependent signaling via its canonical type IA receptor, BMPR1A (also known as ALK3). This was a surprising result, as ALK3 conventionally activates distinct SMAD proteins. Although these initial results were compelling, they were challenged by contemporaneous and subsequent observations. For example, inhibitors of BMP signaling did not specifically impair FSH production in cultured pituitary cells. Of perhaps greater significance, mice lacking ALK3 in gonadotrope cells produced FSH normally. Therefore, the physiological role of BMPs in FSH synthesis in vivo is presently uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Catherine C Ho
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Centre for Research in Reproduction and Development, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Correspondence: Daniel J. Bernard, PhD, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Room 1315, Montréal, Québec H3G 1Y6, Canada. E-mail:
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Activin B Stimulates Mouse Vibrissae Growth and Regulates Cell Proliferation and Cell Cycle Progression of Hair Matrix Cells through ERK Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20040853. [PMID: 30781441 PMCID: PMC6413065 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20040853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins and their receptors play important roles in the control of hair follicle morphogenesis, but their role in vibrissae follicle growth remains unclear. To investigate the effect of Activin B on vibrissae follicles, the anagen induction assay and an in vitro vibrissae culture system were constructed. Hematoxylin and eosin staining were performed to determine the hair cycle stages. The 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were used to examine the cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was used to detect the cell cycle phase. Inhibitors and Western blot analysis were used to investigate the signaling pathway induced by Activin B. As a result, we found that the vibrissae follicle growth was accelerated by 10 ng/mL Activin B in the anagen induction assay and in an organ culture model. 10 ng/mL Activin B promoted hair matrix cell proliferation in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, Activin B modulates hair matrix cell growth through the ERK–Elk1 signaling pathway, and Activin B accelerates hair matrix cell transition from the G1/G0 phase to the S phase through the ERK–Cyclin D1 signaling pathway. Taken together, these results demonstrated that Activin B may promote mouse vibrissae growth by stimulating hair matrix cell proliferation and cell cycle progression through ERK signaling.
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Nagai T, Trakanant S, Kawasaki M, Kawasaki K, Yamada Y, Watanabe M, Blackburn J, Otsuka-Tanaka Y, Hishinuma M, Kitatmura A, Meguro F, Yamada A, Kodama Y, Maeda T, Zhou Q, Saijo Y, Yasue A, Sharpe PT, Hindges R, Takagi R, Ohazama A. MicroRNAs control eyelid development through regulating Wnt signaling. Dev Dyn 2019; 248:201-210. [PMID: 30653268 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 12/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The timing, location, and level of gene expression are crucial for normal organ development, because morphogenesis requires strict genetic control. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding small single-stranded RNAs that play a critical role in regulating gene expression level. Although miRNAs are known to be involved in many biological events, the role of miRNAs in organogenesis is not fully understood. Mammalian eyelids fuse and separate during development and growth. In mice, failure of this process results in the eye-open at birth (EOB) phenotype. RESULTS It has been shown that conditional deletion of mesenchymal Dicer (an essential protein for miRNA processing; Dicer fl/fl ;Wnt1Cre) leads to the EOB phenotype with full penetrance. Here, we identified that the up-regulation of Wnt signaling resulted in the EOB phenotype in Dicer mutants. Down-regulation of Fgf signaling observed in Dicer mutants was caused by an inverse relationship between Fgf and Wnt signaling. Shh and Bmp signaling were down-regulated as the secondary effects in Dicer fl/fl ;Wnt1Cre mice. Wnt, Shh, and Fgf signaling were also found to mediate the epithelial-mesenchymal interactions in eyelid development. CONCLUSIONS miRNAs control eyelid development through Wnt. Developmental Dynamics 248:201-210, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Nagai
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Health Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Supaluk Trakanant
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Maiko Kawasaki
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Dental Institute, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katsushige Kawasaki
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Dental Institute, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom.,Oral Life Science, Research Center for Advanced Oral Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yurie Yamada
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Oral Life Science, Research Center for Advanced Oral Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Momoko Watanabe
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - James Blackburn
- Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Dental Institute, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yoko Otsuka-Tanaka
- Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Dental Institute, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Special Needs Dentistry, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo, Matsudo, Japan
| | - Mitsue Hishinuma
- Department of Special Needs Dentistry, Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo, Matsudo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kitatmura
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Health Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Fumiya Meguro
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Akane Yamada
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Health Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yasumitsu Kodama
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Health Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takeyasu Maeda
- Oral Life Science, Research Center for Advanced Oral Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Qiliang Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yasuo Saijo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Akihiro Yasue
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima City, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Paul T Sharpe
- Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Dental Institute, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Hindges
- MRC Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London, New Hunt's House, Guy's Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ritsuo Takagi
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Health Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ohazama
- Division of Oral Anatomy, Department of Oral Biological Science, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Dental Institute, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
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Bloise E, Ciarmela P, Dela Cruz C, Luisi S, Petraglia F, Reis FM. Activin A in Mammalian Physiology. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:739-780. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00002.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins are dimeric glycoproteins belonging to the transforming growth factor beta superfamily and resulting from the assembly of two beta subunits, which may also be combined with alpha subunits to form inhibins. Activins were discovered in 1986 following the isolation of inhibins from porcine follicular fluid, and were characterized as ovarian hormones that stimulate follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) release by the pituitary gland. In particular, activin A was shown to be the isoform of greater physiological importance in humans. The current understanding of activin A surpasses the reproductive system and allows its classification as a hormone, a growth factor, and a cytokine. In more than 30 yr of intense research, activin A was localized in female and male reproductive organs but also in other organs and systems as diverse as the brain, liver, lung, bone, and gut. Moreover, its roles include embryonic differentiation, trophoblast invasion of the uterine wall in early pregnancy, and fetal/neonate brain protection in hypoxic conditions. It is now recognized that activin A overexpression may be either cytostatic or mitogenic, depending on the cell type, with important implications for tumor biology. Activin A also regulates bone formation and regeneration, enhances joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, and triggers pathogenic mechanisms in the respiratory system. In this 30-yr review, we analyze the evidence for physiological roles of activin A and the potential use of activin agonists and antagonists as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrrico Bloise
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
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Bian G, Yu C, Liu L, Fang C, Chen K, Ren P, Zhang Q, Liu F, Zhang K, Xue Q, Xiang J, Guo H, Song J, Zhao Y, Wu W, Chung SK, Sun R, Ju G, Wang J. Sphingosine 1-phosphate stimulates eyelid closure in the developing rat by stimulating EGFR signaling. Sci Signal 2018; 11:11/553/eaat1470. [DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aat1470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In many mammals, the eyelids migrate over the eye and fuse during embryogenesis to protect the cornea from damage during birth and early life. Loss-of-function mutations affecting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway cause an eyes-open-at-birth (EOB) phenotype in rodents. We identified an insertional mutation in Spinster homolog 2 (Spns2) in a strain of transgenic rats exhibiting the EOB phenotype. Spns2, a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) transporter that releases S1P from cells, was enriched at the tip of developing eyelids in wild-type rat embryos. Spns2 expression or treatment with S1P or any one of several EGFR ligands rescued the EOB Spns2 mutant phenotype in vivo and in tissue explants in vitro and rescued the formation of stress fibers in primary keratinocytes from mutants. S1P signaled through the receptors S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3 to activate extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) and EGFR-dependent mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 1 (MEKK1)–c-Jun signaling. S1P also induced the nuclear translocation of the transcription factor MAL in a manner dependent on EGFR signaling. MAL and c-Jun stimulated the expression of the microRNAs miR-21 and miR-222, both of which target the metalloprotease inhibitor TIMP3, thus promoting metalloprotease activity. The metalloproteases ADAM10 and ADAM17 stimulated EGFR signaling by cleaving a membrane-anchored form of EGF to release the ligand. Our results outline a network by which S1P transactivates EGFR signaling through a complex mechanism involving feedback between several intra- and extracellular molecules to promote eyelid fusion in the developing rat.
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Perakakis N, Upadhyay J, Ghaly W, Chen J, Chrysafi P, Anastasilakis AD, Mantzoros CS. Regulation of the activins-follistatins-inhibins axis by energy status: Impact on reproductive function. Metabolism 2018; 85:240-249. [PMID: 29752954 PMCID: PMC6062472 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have previously demonstrated that the adipose tissue derived hormone leptin controls reproductive function by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in response to energy deficiency. Here, we evaluate the activins-follistatins-inhibins (AFI) axis during acute (short-term fasting in healthy people) and chronic energy deficiency (women with hypothalamic amenorrhea due to strenuous exercise [HA]) and investigate their relation to leptin and reproductive function in healthy subjects and subjects with HA. METHODS The AFI axis was investigated in: a) A double-blinded study in healthy subjects having three randomly assigned admissions, each time for four days: in the isocaloric fed state, complete fasting with placebo treatment, complete fasting with leptin replacement, b) A case-control study comparing women with HA vs healthy controls, c) An open-label interventional study investigating leptin treatment in women with HA over a period of up to three months, d) A randomized interventional trial investigating leptin treatment vs placebo in women with HA for nine months. RESULTS The circulating levels of activin A, activin B, follistatin and follistatin-like 3 change robustly in response to acute and chronic energy deficiency. Leptin replacement in acute energy deprivation does not affect the levels of these hormones suggesting an independent regulation by these two hormonal pathways. In chronic energy deficiency, leptin replacement restores only activin B levels, which are in turn associated with an increase in the number of dominant follicles. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate for the first time that the AFI axis is affected both by acute and chronic energy deficiency. Partial restoration of a component of the axis, i.e. activin B only, through leptin replacement is associated with improved reproductive function in women with HA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Perakakis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Jagriti Upadhyay
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Wael Ghaly
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Physiology, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Joyce Chen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Pavlina Chrysafi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Athanasios D Anastasilakis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Endocrinology, 424 General Military Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Meng Q, Mongan M, Wang J, Xia Y. Repression of MAP3K1 expression and JNK activity by canonical Wnt signaling. Dev Biol 2018; 440:129-136. [PMID: 29787744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Morphogenesis is a complex and highly coordinated process orchestrated by temporal spatial activity of developmental pathways. How the different pathways interact to guide the developmental program remains an intriguing and open question. MAP3K1-JNK and Wnt are signaling pathways crucial for embryonic eyelid closure, an epithelial morphogenetic event conserved in mammals. Here we used a mouse model of eyelid development and genetic and biochemistry tools to investigate the relationships between the two pathways. We found that Wnt activation repressed MAP3K1 expression. Using Axin-LacZ reporter mice, spatial Wnt activity was detected in the leading edge of the developing eyelid. Conditional knockout of Wntless (Wls) in ocular surface ectoderm blocked eyelid formation, and significantly increased MAP3K1 expression in eyelid cells at the nasal canthus region. Conversely, knockout of Dkk2, encoding a canonical Wnt antagonist, resulted in an increase of Wnt activity in cells at the upper eyelid margin near the nasal canthus. Up-regulation of Wnt signaling in the Dkk2-knockout embryos corresponded to down-regulation of MAP3K1 expression. In vitro data showed that Wnt3a treatment decreased MAP3K1 promoter activity, whereas activation of Wnt by lithium chloride inhibited MAP3K1 expression, and attenuated MAP3K1-mediated JNK activity. Our data identify a unique signal crosstalk between Wnt signaling and the MAP3K1-JNK pathway in epithelial morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghang Meng
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Maureen Mongan
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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Monsivais D, Matzuk MM, Pangas SA. The TGF-β Family in the Reproductive Tract. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2017; 9:cshperspect.a022251. [PMID: 28193725 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a022251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family has a profound impact on the reproductive function of various organisms. In this review, we discuss how highly conserved members of the TGF-β family influence the reproductive function across several species. We briefly discuss how TGF-β-related proteins balance germ-cell proliferation and differentiation as well as dauer entry and exit in Caenorhabditis elegans. In Drosophila melanogaster, TGF-β-related proteins maintain germ stem-cell identity and eggshell patterning. We then provide an in-depth analysis of landmark studies performed using transgenic mouse models and discuss how these data have uncovered basic developmental aspects of male and female reproductive development. In particular, we discuss the roles of the various TGF-β family ligands and receptors in primordial germ-cell development, sexual differentiation, and gonadal cell development. We also discuss how mutant mouse studies showed the contribution of TGF-β family signaling to embryonic and postnatal testis and ovarian development. We conclude the review by describing data obtained from human studies, which highlight the importance of the TGF-β family in normal female reproductive function during pregnancy and in various gynecologic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Stephanie A Pangas
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030
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40
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Jung B, Staudacher JJ, Beauchamp D. Transforming Growth Factor β Superfamily Signaling in Development of Colorectal Cancer. Gastroenterology 2017; 152:36-52. [PMID: 27773809 PMCID: PMC5550896 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β cytokines signal via a complex network of pathways to regulate proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration, and other functions in many cell types. A high percentage of colorectal tumors contain mutations that disrupt TGF-β family member signaling. We review how TGF-β family member signaling is altered during development of colorectal cancer, models of study, interaction of pathways, and potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Jung
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
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Hepcidin upregulation by inflammation is independent of Smad1/5/8 signaling by activin B. Blood 2016; 129:533-536. [PMID: 27903526 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2016-10-748541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
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Mouse Models for the Study of Synthesis, Secretion, and Action of Pituitary Gonadotropins. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:49-84. [PMID: 27697204 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins play fundamental roles in reproduction. More than 30years ago, Cga transgenic mice were generated, and more than 20years ago, the phenotypes of Cga null mice were reported. Since then, numerous mouse strains have been generated and characterized to address several questions in reproductive biology involving gonadotropin synthesis, secretion, and action. More recently, extragonadal expression, and in some cases, functions of gonadotropins in nongonadal tissues have been identified. Several genomic and proteomic approaches including novel mouse genome editing tools are available now. It is anticipated that these and other emerging technologies will be useful to build an integrated network of gonadotropin signaling pathways in various tissues. Undoubtedly, research on gonadotropins will continue to provide new knowledge and allow us transcend from benchside to the bedside.
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Namwanje M, Brown CW. Activins and Inhibins: Roles in Development, Physiology, and Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2016; 8:cshperspect.a021881. [PMID: 27328872 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a021881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Since their original discovery as regulators of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion and erythropoiesis, the TGF-β family members activin and inhibin have been shown to participate in a variety of biological processes, from the earliest stages of embryonic development to highly specialized functions in terminally differentiated cells and tissues. Herein, we present the history, structures, signaling mechanisms, regulation, and biological processes in which activins and inhibins participate, including several recently discovered biological activities and functional antagonists. The potential therapeutic relevance of these advances is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Namwanje
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Chester W Brown
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030 Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030 Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
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Hardy CL, Rolland JM, O'Hehir RE. The immunoregulatory and fibrotic roles of activin A in allergic asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2016; 45:1510-22. [PMID: 25962695 PMCID: PMC4687413 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Activin A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily of cytokines, was originally identified as an inducer of follicle stimulating hormone release, but has since been ascribed roles in normal physiological processes, as an immunoregulatory cytokine and as a driver of fibrosis. In the last 10–15 years, it has also become abundantly clear that activin A plays an important role in the regulation of asthmatic inflammation and airway remodelling. This review provides a brief introduction to the activin A/TGF-β superfamily, focussing on the regulation of receptors and signalling pathways. We examine the contradictory evidence for generalized pro- vs. anti-inflammatory effects of activin A in inflammation, before appraising its role in asthmatic inflammation and airway remodelling specifically by evaluating data from both murine models and clinical studies. We identify key issues to be addressed, paving the way for safe exploitation of modulation of activin A function for treatment of allergic asthma and other inflammatory lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Hardy
- Department of Allergy, Immunology & Respiratory Medicine, Monash University and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Immunology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., 3004, Australia
| | - J M Rolland
- Department of Allergy, Immunology & Respiratory Medicine, Monash University and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Immunology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., 3004, Australia
| | - R E O'Hehir
- Department of Allergy, Immunology & Respiratory Medicine, Monash University and The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Immunology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., 3004, Australia
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Wijayarathna R, de Kretser DM. Activins in reproductive biology and beyond. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:342-57. [PMID: 26884470 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activins are members of the pleiotrophic family of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily of cytokines, initially isolated for their capacity to induce the release of FSH from pituitary extracts. Subsequent research has demonstrated that activins are involved in multiple biological functions including the control of inflammation, fibrosis, developmental biology and tumourigenesis. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the roles of activin in reproductive and developmental biology. It also discusses interesting advances in the field of modulating the bioactivity of activins as a therapeutic target, which would undoubtedly be beneficial for patients with reproductive pathology. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was carried out using PUBMED and Google Scholar databases to identify studies in the English language which have contributed to the advancement of the field of activin biology, since its initial isolation in 1987 until July 2015. 'Activin', 'testis', 'ovary', 'embryonic development' and 'therapeutic targets' were used as the keywords in combination with other search phrases relevant to the topic of activin biology. RESULTS Activins, which are dimers of inhibin β subunits, act via a classical TGF-β signalling pathway. The bioactivity of activin is regulated by two endogenous inhibitors, inhibin and follistatin. Activin is a major regulator of testicular and ovarian development. In the ovary, activin A promotes oocyte maturation and regulates granulosa cell steroidogenesis. It is also essential in endometrial repair following menstruation, decidualization and maintaining pregnancy. Dysregulation of the activin-follistatin-inhibin system leads to disorders of female reproduction and pregnancy, including polycystic ovary syndrome, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia and pre-term birth. Moreover, a rise in serum activin A, accompanied by elevated FSH, is characteristic of female reproductive aging. In the male, activin A is an autocrine and paracrine modulator of germ cell development and Sertoli cell proliferation. Disruption of normal activin signalling is characteristic of many tumours affecting reproductive organs, including endometrial carcinoma, cervical cancer, testicular and ovarian cancer as well as prostate cancer. While activin A and B aid the progression of many tumours of the reproductive organs, activin C acts as a tumour suppressor. Activins are important in embryonic induction, morphogenesis of branched glandular organs, development of limbs and nervous system, craniofacial and dental development and morphogenesis of the Wolffian duct. CONCLUSIONS The field of activin biology has advanced considerably since its initial discovery as an FSH stimulating agent. Now, activin is well known as a growth factor and cytokine that regulates many aspects of reproductive biology, developmental biology and also inflammation and immunological mechanisms. Current research provides evidence for novel roles of activins in maintaining the structure and function of reproductive and other organ systems. The fact that activin A is elevated both locally as well as systemically in major disorders of the reproductive system makes it an important biomarker. Given the established role of activin A as a pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic agent, studies of its involvement in disorders of reproduction resulting from these processes should be examined. Follistatin, as a key regulator of the biological actions of activin, should be evaluated as a therapeutic agent in conditions where activin A overexpression is established as a contributing factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Wijayarathna
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31, Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - D M de Kretser
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31, Wright Street, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
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Johnson KE, Makanji Y, Temple-Smith P, Kelly EK, Barton PA, Al-Musawi SL, Mueller TD, Walton KL, Harrison CA. Biological activity and in vivo half-life of pro-activin A in male rats. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 422:84-92. [PMID: 26687063 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Mature TGF-β proteins are used in vivo to promote bone growth, combat obesity, reverse fibrosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension, and as potential rejuvenation factors. However, the serum half-life of this family of growth factors is short (∼5 min), limiting their therapeutic potential. Because TGF-β proteins are normally secreted from cells with their prodomains attached, we considered whether these molecules could extend the in vivo half-life and activity of their respective growth factors. Using activin A as a model ligand, we initially modified the cleavage site between the pro- and mature domains to ensure complete processing of the activin A precursor. Co-immunoprecipitation studies confirmed mature activin A is secreted from cells in a non-covalent complex with its prodomain, however, the affinity of this interaction is not sufficient to suppress activin A in vitro biological activity. The plasma clearance profiles of purified pro- and mature activin A were determined over a 4 h period in adult male rats. Both activin forms demonstrated a two-phase decay, with the half-life of pro-activin A (t1/2 fast = 12.5 min, slow = 31.0 min) being greater than that of mature activin A (t1/2 fast = 5.5 min, slow = 20.3 min). Both pro- and mature activin A induced significant increases in serum follicle stimulating hormone levels after 4 h, but no differences were observed in the relative in vivo bioactivities of the two activin isoforms. Increased serum half-life of activin A in the presence of its prodomain identifies a new means to increase the therapeutic effectiveness of TGF-β proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine E Johnson
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
| | | | - Peter Temple-Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Emily K Kelly
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Peter A Barton
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
| | - Sara L Al-Musawi
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-von-Sachs Institute of the University Wuerzburg, Julius-von Sachs Platz 2, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Kelly L Walton
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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Rubinstein TJ, Weber AC, Traboulsi EI. Molecular biology and genetics of embryonic eyelid development. Ophthalmic Genet 2016; 37:252-9. [PMID: 26863902 DOI: 10.3109/13816810.2015.1071409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The embryology of the eyelid is a complex process that includes interactions between the surface ectoderm and mesenchymal tissues. In the mouse and human, the eyelids form and fuse before birth; they open prenatally in the human and postnatally in the mouse. In the mouse, cell migration is stimulated by different growth factors such as FGF10, TGF-α, Activin B, and HB-EGF. These growth factors modulate downstream BMP4 signaling, the ERK cascade, and JNK/c-JUN. Several mechanisms, such as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, may inhibit and regulate eyelid fusion. Eyelid opening, on the other hand, is driven by the BMP/Smad signaling system. Several human genetic disorders result from dysregulation of the above molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam C Weber
- a Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute , Cleveland , Ohio , USA
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ActivinB Is Induced in Insulinoma To Promote Tumor Plasticity through a β-Cell-Induced Dedifferentiation. Mol Cell Biol 2015; 36:756-64. [PMID: 26711255 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00930-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of pancreatic β-cell maturity occurs in diabetes and insulinomas. Although both physiological and pathological stresses are known to promote β-cell dedifferentiation, little is known about the molecules involved in this process. Here we demonstrate that activinB, a transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-related ligand, is upregulated during tumorigenesis and drives the loss of insulin expression and β-cell maturity in a mouse insulinoma model. Our data further identify Pax4 as a previously unknown activinB target and potent contributor to the observed β-cell dedifferentiation. More importantly, using compound mutant mice, we found that deleting activinB expression abolishes tumor β-cell dedifferentiation and, surprisingly, increases survival without significantly affecting tumor growth. Hence, this work reveals an unexpected role for activinB in the loss of β-cell maturity, islet plasticity, and progression of insulinoma through its participation in β-cell dedifferentiation.
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Peng J, Fullerton PT, Monsivais D, Clementi C, Su GH, Matzuk MM. Uterine Activin-Like Kinase 4 Regulates Trophoblast Development During Mouse Placentation. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:1684-93. [PMID: 26484579 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is the first organ to develop after fertilization. It forms an interface between the maternal uterus and growing fetus to allow nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange for a successful pregnancy in both mice and humans. In the past 2 decades, in vivo and in vitro approaches have been used to show that several members of the TGF-β superfamily regulate embryo implantation and placental development. Nodal, a TGF-β superfamily ligand, is essential for mesendoderm formation and left-right axis patterning during embryogenesis, and Nodal null mutants exhibit abnormal placental organization with expansion of trophoblast giant cells and a decrease of spongiotrophoblast and labyrinth. To better understand the importance of Nodal signaling in the uterus, we established a mouse model to conditionally ablate activin-like kinase 4 (ALK4; the Nodal type 1 receptor) using Cre recombinase driven by the progesterone receptor promoter sequences (Pgr-Cre). Alk4 conditional knockout females are subfertile due to placental abnormalities and fetal loss in pregnancy, with a placental disorganization phenotype similar to what is observed in Nodal null mice. Thus, Nodal likely functions as an indirect regulator of placental development by binding to type 1 and type 2 receptors on maternal decidual cells to stimulate expression of unknown regulators of placental development. Our findings not only describe the generation of a mouse model that enables study of Nodal signaling in placentation but also provides insights into the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications in humans, including spontaneous abortion, preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Peng
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology (J.P., P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Molecular and Human Genetics (J.P., P.T.F., M.M.M.), Molecular and Cellular Biology (M.M.M.), and Pharmacology (M.M.M.), Centers for Reproductive Medicine (M.M.M.) and Drug Discovery (P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Pathology (C.C.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016; and Departments of Pathology (G.H.S.) and Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery (G.H.S.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
| | - Paul T Fullerton
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology (J.P., P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Molecular and Human Genetics (J.P., P.T.F., M.M.M.), Molecular and Cellular Biology (M.M.M.), and Pharmacology (M.M.M.), Centers for Reproductive Medicine (M.M.M.) and Drug Discovery (P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Pathology (C.C.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016; and Departments of Pathology (G.H.S.) and Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery (G.H.S.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology (J.P., P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Molecular and Human Genetics (J.P., P.T.F., M.M.M.), Molecular and Cellular Biology (M.M.M.), and Pharmacology (M.M.M.), Centers for Reproductive Medicine (M.M.M.) and Drug Discovery (P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Pathology (C.C.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016; and Departments of Pathology (G.H.S.) and Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery (G.H.S.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
| | - Caterina Clementi
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology (J.P., P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Molecular and Human Genetics (J.P., P.T.F., M.M.M.), Molecular and Cellular Biology (M.M.M.), and Pharmacology (M.M.M.), Centers for Reproductive Medicine (M.M.M.) and Drug Discovery (P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Pathology (C.C.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016; and Departments of Pathology (G.H.S.) and Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery (G.H.S.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
| | - Gloria H Su
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology (J.P., P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Molecular and Human Genetics (J.P., P.T.F., M.M.M.), Molecular and Cellular Biology (M.M.M.), and Pharmacology (M.M.M.), Centers for Reproductive Medicine (M.M.M.) and Drug Discovery (P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Pathology (C.C.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016; and Departments of Pathology (G.H.S.) and Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery (G.H.S.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology (J.P., P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Molecular and Human Genetics (J.P., P.T.F., M.M.M.), Molecular and Cellular Biology (M.M.M.), and Pharmacology (M.M.M.), Centers for Reproductive Medicine (M.M.M.) and Drug Discovery (P.T.F., D.M., M.M.M.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Pathology (C.C.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016; and Departments of Pathology (G.H.S.) and Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery (G.H.S.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
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Marino FE, Risbridger G, Gold E. Re-evaluating the role of activin-βC in cancer biology. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2015; 26:463-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2015.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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