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Szabó F, Köves K, Gál L. History of the Development of Knowledge about the Neuroendocrine Control of Ovulation-Recent Knowledge on the Molecular Background. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6531. [PMID: 38928237 PMCID: PMC11203711 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126531] [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: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The physiology of reproduction has been of interest to researchers for centuries. The purpose of this work is to review the development of our knowledge on the neuroendocrine background of the regulation of ovulation. We first describe the development of the pituitary gland, the structure of the median eminence (ME), the connection between the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, the ovarian and pituitary hormones involved in ovulation, and the pituitary cell composition. We recall the pioneer physiological and morphological investigations that drove development forward. The description of the supraoptic-paraventricular magnocellular and tuberoinfundibular parvocellular systems and recognizing the role of the hypophysiotropic area were major milestones in understanding the anatomical and physiological basis of reproduction. The discovery of releasing and inhibiting hormones, the significance of pulse and surge generators, the pulsatile secretion of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), and the subsequent pulsatility of luteinizing (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH) in the human reproductive physiology were truly transformative. The roles of three critical neuropeptides, kisspeptin (KP), neurokinin B (NKB), and dynorphin (Dy), were also identified. This review also touches on the endocrine background of human infertility and assisted fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flóra Szabó
- Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA;
| | - Katalin Köves
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Levente Gál
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA;
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Pérez Millán MI, Cheung LYM, Mercogliano F, Camilletti MA, Chirino Felker GT, Moro LN, Miriuka S, Brinkmeier ML, Camper SA. Pituitary stem cells: past, present and future perspectives. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:77-92. [PMID: 38102391 PMCID: PMC10964491 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00922-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary cells that express the transcription factor SOX2 are stem cells because they can self-renew and differentiate into multiple pituitary hormone-producing cell types as organoids. Wounding and physiological challenges can activate pituitary stem cells, but cell numbers are not fully restored, and the ability to mobilize stem cells decreases with increasing age. The basis of these limitations is still unknown. The regulation of stem cell quiescence and activation involves many different signalling pathways, including those mediated by WNT, Hippo and several cytokines; more research is needed to understand the interactions between these pathways. Pituitary organoids can be formed from human or mouse embryonic stem cells, or from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Human pituitary organoid transplantation is sufficient to induce corticosterone release in hypophysectomized mice, raising the possibility of therapeutic applications. Today, pituitary organoids have the potential to assess the role of individual genes and genetic variants on hormone production ex vivo, providing an important tool for the advancement of exciting frontiers in pituitary stem cell biology and pituitary organogenesis. In this article, we provide an overview of notable discoveries in pituitary stem cell function and highlight important areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Inés Pérez Millán
- Institute of Bioscience, Biotechnology and Translational Biology (IB3-UBA), University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leonard Y M Cheung
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Florencia Mercogliano
- Institute of Bioscience, Biotechnology and Translational Biology (IB3-UBA), University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maria Andrea Camilletti
- Institute of Bioscience, Biotechnology and Translational Biology (IB3-UBA), University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gonzalo T Chirino Felker
- Laboratory of Applied Research of Neurosciences (LIAN-CONICET), FLENI Sede Escobar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lucia N Moro
- Laboratory of Applied Research of Neurosciences (LIAN-CONICET), FLENI Sede Escobar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Santiago Miriuka
- Laboratory of Applied Research of Neurosciences (LIAN-CONICET), FLENI Sede Escobar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Michelle L Brinkmeier
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sally A Camper
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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3
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Kato Y, Yoshida S, Kato T. Missing pieces of the pituitary puzzle: participation of extra-adenohypophyseal placode-lineage cells in the adult pituitary gland. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 394:487-496. [PMID: 37650920 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03829-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The pituitary gland is a major endocrine tissue composing of two distinct entities, the adenohypophysis (anterior pituitary, cranial placode origin) and the neurohypophysis (posterior pituitary, neural ectoderm origin), and plays important roles in maintaining vital homeostasis. This tissue is maintained by a slow, consistent cell-renewal system of adult stem/progenitor cells. Recent accumulating evidence shows that neural crest-, head mesenchyme-, and endoderm lineage cells invade during pituitary development and contribute to the maintenance of the adult pituitary gland. Based on these novel observations, this article discusses whether these lineage cells are involved in pituitary organogenesis, maintenance, regeneration, dysplasia, or tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukio Kato
- Institute for Endocrinology, Meiji University, 1-1-1 Higashi-Mita, Tama-Ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 214-8571, Japan.
| | - Saishu Yoshida
- Department of Biochemistry, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Takako Kato
- Institute for Endocrinology, Meiji University, 1-1-1 Higashi-Mita, Tama-Ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 214-8571, Japan
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Winningham AH, Camper SA. Pituitary Stem Cell Regulation by Zeb2 and BMP Signaling. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad016. [PMID: 36683433 PMCID: PMC10091485 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is important for many developing organs, and for wound healing, fibrosis, and cancer. Pituitary stem cells undergo an EMT-like process as they migrate and initiate differentiation, but little is known about the input of signaling pathways or the genetic hierarchy of the transcriptional cascade. Prop1 mutant stem cells fail to undergo changes in cellular morphology, migration, and transition to the Pou1f1 lineage. We used Prop1 mutant mice to identify the changes in gene expression that are affiliated with EMT-like processes. BMP and TGF-β family gene expression was reduced in Prop1 mutants and Elf5, a transcription factor that characteristically suppresses EMT, had elevated expression. Genes involved in cell-cell contact such as cadherins and claudins were elevated in Prop1 mutants. To establish the genetic hierarchy of control, we manipulated gene expression in pituitary stem cell colonies. We determined that the EMT inducer, Zeb2, is necessary for robust BMP signaling and repression of Elf5. We demonstrated that inhibition of BMP signaling affects expression of target genes in the Id family, but it does not affect expression of other EMT genes. Zeb2 is necessary for expression of the SHH effector gene Gli2. However, knock down of Gli2 has little effect on the EMT-related genes, suggesting that it acts through a separate pathway. Thus, we have established the genetic hierarchy involved in the transition of pituitary stem cells to differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda H Winningham
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5618, USA
| | - Sally A Camper
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5618, USA
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5
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Louden ED, Poch A, Kim HG, Ben-Mahmoud A, Kim SH, Layman LC. Genetics of hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism-Human and mouse genes, inheritance, oligogenicity, and genetic counseling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 534:111334. [PMID: 34062169 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, which may be normosmic (nHH) or anosmic/hyposmic, known as Kallmann syndrome (KS), is due to gonadotropin-releasing hormone deficiency, which results in absent puberty and infertility. Investigation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS over the past 35 years has yielded a substantial increase in our understanding, as variants in 44 genes in OMIM account for ~50% of cases. The first genes for KS (ANOS1) and nHH (GNRHR) were followed by the discovery that FGFR1 variants may cause either nHH or KS. Associated anomalies include midline facial defects, neurologic deficits, cardiac anomalies, and renal agenesis, among others. Mouse models for all but one gene (ANOS1) generally support findings in humans. About half of the known genes implicated in nHH/KS are inherited as autosomal dominant and half are autosomal recessive, whereas only 7% are X-linked recessive. Digenic and oligogenic inheritance has been reported in 2-20% of patients, most commonly with variants in genes that may result in either nHH or KS inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. In vitro analyses have only been conducted for both gene variants in eight cases and for one gene variant in 20 cases. Rigorous confirmation that two gene variants in the same individual cause the nHH/KS phenotype is lacking for most. Clinical diagnosis is probably best accomplished by targeted next generation sequencing of the known candidate genes with confirmation by Sanger sequencing. Elucidation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS has resulted in an enhanced understanding of this disorder, as well as normal puberty, which makes genetic diagnosis clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica D Louden
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Alexandra Poch
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Hyung-Goo Kim
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Afif Ben-Mahmoud
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Soo-Hyun Kim
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence C Layman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
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List EO, Basu R, Duran-Ortiz S, Krejsa J, Jensen EA. Mouse models of growth hormone deficiency. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2021; 22:3-16. [PMID: 33033978 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-020-09601-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Nearly one century of research using growth hormone deficient (GHD) mouse lines has contributed greatly toward our knowledge of growth hormone (GH), a pituitary-derived hormone that binds and signals through the GH receptor and affects many metabolic processes throughout life. Although delayed sexual maturation, decreased fertility, reduced muscle mass, increased adiposity, small body size, and glucose intolerance appear to be among the negative characteristics of these GHD mouse lines, these mice still consistently outlive their normal sized littermates. Furthermore, the absence of GH action in these mouse lines leads to enhanced insulin sensitivity (likely due to the lack of GH's diabetogenic actions), delayed onset for a number of age-associated physiological declines (including cognition, cancer, and neuromusculoskeletal frailty), reduced cellular senescence, and ultimately, extended lifespan. In this review, we provide details about history, availability, growth, physiology, and aging of five commonly used GHD mouse lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward O List
- The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, 172 Water Tower Drive, Athens, OH, 45701, USA.
- The Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, 45701, USA.
| | - Reetobrata Basu
- The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, 172 Water Tower Drive, Athens, OH, 45701, USA
| | - Silvana Duran-Ortiz
- The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, 172 Water Tower Drive, Athens, OH, 45701, USA
| | - Jackson Krejsa
- The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, 172 Water Tower Drive, Athens, OH, 45701, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Jensen
- The Edison Biotechnology Institute, Ohio University, 172 Water Tower Drive, Athens, OH, 45701, USA
- The Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, 45701, USA
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Bosch i Ara L, Katugampola H, Dattani MT. Congenital Hypopituitarism During the Neonatal Period: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Therapeutic Options, and Outcome. Front Pediatr 2021; 8:600962. [PMID: 33634051 PMCID: PMC7902025 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.600962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Congenital hypopituitarism (CH) is characterized by a deficiency of one or more pituitary hormones. The pituitary gland is a central regulator of growth, metabolism, and reproduction. The anterior pituitary produces and secretes growth hormone (GH), adrenocorticotropic hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and prolactin. The posterior pituitary hormone secretes antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Epidemiology: The incidence is 1 in 4,000-1 in 10,000. The majority of CH cases are sporadic; however, a small number of familial cases have been identified. In the latter, a molecular basis has frequently been identified. Between 80-90% of CH cases remain unsolved in terms of molecular genetics. Pathogenesis: Several transcription factors and signaling molecules are involved in the development of the pituitary gland. Mutations in any of these genes may result in CH including HESX1, PROP1, POU1F1, LHX3, LHX4, SOX2, SOX3, OTX2, PAX6, FGFR1, GLI2, and FGF8. Over the last 5 years, several novel genes have been identified in association with CH, but it is likely that many genes remain to be identified, as the majority of patients with CH do not have an identified mutation. Clinical manifestations: Genotype-phenotype correlations are difficult to establish. There is a high phenotypic variability associated with different genetic mutations. The clinical spectrum includes severe midline developmental disorders, hypopituitarism (in isolation or combined with other congenital abnormalities), and isolated hormone deficiencies. Diagnosis and treatment: Key investigations include MRI and baseline and dynamic pituitary function tests. However, dynamic tests of GH secretion cannot be performed in the neonatal period, and a diagnosis of GH deficiency may be based on auxology, MRI findings, and low growth factor concentrations. Once a hormone deficit is confirmed, hormone replacement should be started. If onset is acute with hypoglycaemia, cortisol deficiency should be excluded, and if identified this should be rapidly treated, as should TSH deficiency. This review aims to give an overview of CH including management of this complex condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bosch i Ara
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Harshini Katugampola
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mehul T. Dattani
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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Oleari R, André V, Lettieri A, Tahir S, Roth L, Paganoni A, Eberini I, Parravicini C, Scagliotti V, Cotellessa L, Bedogni F, De Martini LB, Corridori MV, Gulli S, Augustin HG, Gaston-Massuet C, Hussain K, Cariboni A. A Novel SEMA3G Mutation in Two Siblings Affected by Syndromic GnRH Deficiency. Neuroendocrinology 2021; 111:421-441. [PMID: 32365351 DOI: 10.1159/000508375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency causes hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), a rare genetic disorder that impairs sexual reproduction. HH can be due to defective GnRH-secreting neuron development or function and may be associated with other clinical signs in overlapping genetic syndromes. With most of the cases being idiopathic, genetics underlying HH is still largely unknown. OBJECTIVE To assess the contribution of mutated Semaphorin 3G (SEMA3G) in the onset of a syndromic form of HH, characterized by intellectual disability and facial dysmorphic features. METHOD By combining homozygosity mapping with exome sequencing, we identified a novel variant in the SEMA3G gene. We then applied mouse as a model organism to examine SEMA3Gexpression and its functional requirement in vivo. Further, we applied homology modelling in silico and cell culture assays in vitro to validate the pathogenicity of the identified gene variant. RESULTS We found that (i) SEMA3G is expressed along the migratory route of GnRH neurons and in the developing pituitary, (ii) SEMA3G affects GnRH neuron development, but is redundant in the adult hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and (iii) mutated SEMA3G alters binding properties in silico and in vitro to its PlexinA receptors and attenuates its effect on the migration of immortalized GnRH neurons. CONCLUSION In silico, in vitro, and in vivo models revealed that SEMA3G regulates GnRH neuron migration and that its mutation affecting receptor selectivity may be responsible for the HH-related defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Oleari
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina André
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Lettieri
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sophia Tahir
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lise Roth
- Division of Vascular Oncology and Metastasis, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alyssa Paganoni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ivano Eberini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Parravicini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Scagliotti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ludovica Cotellessa
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Research, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bedogni
- San Raffaele Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute (NMHRI), Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Simona Gulli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Hellmut G Augustin
- Division of Vascular Oncology and Metastasis, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance), Heidelberg, Germany
- European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carles Gaston-Massuet
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Khalid Hussain
- Sidra Medical & Research Center, Division of Endocrinology OPC, Department of Pediatric Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Anna Cariboni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy,
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Gregory LC, Dattani MT. The Molecular Basis of Congenital Hypopituitarism and Related Disorders. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5614788. [PMID: 31702014 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Congenital hypopituitarism (CH) is characterized by the presence of deficiencies in one or more of the 6 anterior pituitary (AP) hormones secreted from the 5 different specialized cell types of the AP. During human embryogenesis, hypothalamo-pituitary (HP) development is controlled by a complex spatio-temporal genetic cascade of transcription factors and signaling molecules within the hypothalamus and Rathke's pouch, the primordium of the AP. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION This mini-review discusses the genes and pathways involved in HP development and how mutations of these give rise to CH. This may present in the neonatal period or later on in childhood and may be associated with craniofacial midline structural abnormalities such as cleft lip/palate, visual impairment due to eye abnormalities such as optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH) and microphthalmia or anophthalmia, or midline forebrain neuroradiological defects including agenesis of the septum pellucidum or corpus callosum or the more severe holoprosencephaly. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Mutations give rise to an array of highly variable disorders ranging in severity. There are many known causative genes in HP developmental pathways that are routinely screened in CH patients; however, over the last 5 years this list has rapidly increased due to the identification of variants in new genes and pathways of interest by next-generation sequencing. CONCLUSION The majority of patients with these disorders do not have an identified molecular basis, often making management challenging. This mini-review aims to guide clinicians in making a genetic diagnosis based on patient phenotype, which in turn may impact on clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Cheryl Gregory
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mehul Tulsidas Dattani
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
The development of the anterior pituitary gland occurs in distinct sequential developmental steps, leading to the formation of a complex organ containing five different cell types secreting six different hormones. During this process, the temporal and spatial expression of a cascade of signaling molecules and transcription factors plays a crucial role in organ commitment, cell proliferation, patterning, and terminal differentiation. The morphogenesis of the gland and the emergence of distinct cell types from a common primordium are governed by complex regulatory networks involving transcription factors and signaling molecules that may be either intrinsic to the developing pituitary or extrinsic, originating from the ventral diencephalon, the oral ectoderm, and the surrounding mesenchyme. Endocrine cells of the pituitary gland are organized into structural and functional networks that contribute to the coordinated response of endocrine cells to stimuli; these cellular networks are formed during embryonic development and are maintained or may be modified in adulthood, contributing to the plasticity of the gland. Abnormalities in any of the steps of pituitary development may lead to congenital hypopituitarism that includes a spectrum of disorders from isolated to combined hormone deficiencies including syndromic disorders such as septo-optic dysplasia. Over the past decade, the acceleration of next-generation sequencing has allowed for rapid analysis of the patient genome to identify novel mutations and novel candidate genes associated with hypothalmo-pituitary development. Subsequent functional analysis using patient fibroblast cells, and the generation of stem cells derived from patient cells, is fast replacing the need for animal models while providing a more physiologically relevant characterization of novel mutations. Furthermore, CRISPR-Cas9 as the method for gene editing is replacing previous laborious and time-consuming gene editing methods that were commonly used, thus yielding knockout cell lines in a fraction of the time. © 2020 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 10:389-413, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriaki S Alatzoglou
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Louise C Gregory
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Mehul T Dattani
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London (UCL), London, UK
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11
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Camilletti MA, Martinez Mayer J, Vishnopolska SA, Perez-Millan MI. From Pituitary Stem Cell Differentiation to Regenerative Medicine. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:614999. [PMID: 33542708 PMCID: PMC7851048 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.614999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The anterior pituitary gland is comprised of specialized cell-types that produce and secrete polypeptide hormones in response to hypothalamic input and feedback from target organs. These specialized cells arise during embryonic development, from stem cells that express SOX2 and the pituitary transcription factor PROP1, which is necessary to establish the stem cell pool and promote an epithelial to mesenchymal-like transition, releasing progenitors from the niche. Human and mouse embryonic stem cells can differentiate into all major hormone-producing cell types of the anterior lobe in a highly plastic and dynamic manner. More recently human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) emerged as a viable alternative due to their plasticity and high proliferative capacity. This mini-review gives an overview of the major advances that have been achieved to develop protocols to generate pituitary hormone-producing cell types from stem cells and how these mechanisms are regulated. We also discuss their application in pituitary diseases, such as pituitary hormone deficiencies.
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12
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Mariniello K, Ruiz-Babot G, McGaugh EC, Nicholson JG, Gualtieri A, Gaston-Massuet C, Nostro MC, Guasti L. Stem Cells, Self-Renewal, and Lineage Commitment in the Endocrine System. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:772. [PMID: 31781041 PMCID: PMC6856655 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocrine system coordinates a wide array of body functions mainly through secretion of hormones and their actions on target tissues. Over the last decades, a collective effort between developmental biologists, geneticists, and stem cell biologists has generated a wealth of knowledge related to the contribution of stem/progenitor cells to both organogenesis and self-renewal of endocrine organs. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the role of tissue stem cells in the development and self-renewal of endocrine organs. Pathways governing crucial steps in both development and stemness maintenance, and that are known to be frequently altered in a wide array of endocrine disorders, including cancer, are also described. Crucially, this plethora of information is being channeled into the development of potential new cell-based treatment modalities for endocrine-related illnesses, some of which have made it through clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Mariniello
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard Ruiz-Babot
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Emily C. McGaugh
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - James G. Nicholson
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angelica Gualtieri
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carles Gaston-Massuet
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Cristina Nostro
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Pérez Millán MI, Vishnopolska SA, Daly AZ, Bustamante JP, Seilicovich A, Bergadá I, Braslavsky D, Keselman AC, Lemons RM, Mortensen AH, Marti MA, Camper SA, Kitzman JO. Next generation sequencing panel based on single molecule molecular inversion probes for detecting genetic variants in children with hypopituitarism. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2018; 6:514-525. [PMID: 29739035 PMCID: PMC6081231 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital Hypopituitarism is caused by genetic and environmental factors. Over 30 genes have been implicated in isolated and/or combined pituitary hormone deficiency. The etiology remains unknown for up to 80% of the patients, but most cases have been analyzed by limited candidate gene screening. Mutations in the PROP1 gene are the most common known cause, and the frequency of mutations in this gene varies greatly by ethnicity. We designed a custom array to assess the frequency of mutations in known hypopituitarism genes and new candidates, using single molecule molecular inversion probes sequencing (smMIPS). METHODS We used this panel for the first systematic screening for causes of hypopituitarism in children. Molecular inversion probes were designed to capture 693 coding exons of 30 known genes and 37 candidate genes. We captured genomic DNA from 51 pediatric patients with CPHD (n = 43) or isolated GH deficiency (IGHD) (n = 8) and their parents and conducted next generation sequencing. RESULTS We obtained deep coverage over targeted regions and demonstrated accurate variant detection by comparison to whole-genome sequencing in a control individual. We found a dominant mutation GH1, p.R209H, in a three-generation pedigree with IGHD. CONCLUSIONS smMIPS is an efficient and inexpensive method to detect mutations in patients with hypopituitarism, drastically limiting the need for screening individual genes by Sanger sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- María I. Pérez Millán
- Institute of Biomedical Investigations (INBIOMED‐UBA‐CONICET)University of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Sebastian A. Vishnopolska
- Department of Biological Chemistry (IQUIBICEN‐UBA‐CONICET)Faculty of Exact and Natural SciencesUniversity of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | | | - Juan P. Bustamante
- Department of Biological Chemistry (IQUIBICEN‐UBA‐CONICET)Faculty of Exact and Natural SciencesUniversity of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Adriana Seilicovich
- Institute of Biomedical Investigations (INBIOMED‐UBA‐CONICET)University of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Ignacio Bergadá
- División de EndocrinologíaHospital de Niños Ricardo GutiérrezCentro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas ‘Dr César Bergadá’ (CEDIE) CONICET – FEIBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Débora Braslavsky
- División de EndocrinologíaHospital de Niños Ricardo GutiérrezCentro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas ‘Dr César Bergadá’ (CEDIE) CONICET – FEIBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Ana C. Keselman
- División de EndocrinologíaHospital de Niños Ricardo GutiérrezCentro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas ‘Dr César Bergadá’ (CEDIE) CONICET – FEIBuenos AiresArgentina
| | | | | | - Marcelo A. Marti
- Department of Biological Chemistry (IQUIBICEN‐UBA‐CONICET)Faculty of Exact and Natural SciencesUniversity of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Sally A. Camper
- Department of Human GeneticsUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
| | - Jacob O. Kitzman
- Department of Human GeneticsUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
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14
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Cox B, Roose H, Vennekens A, Vankelecom H. Pituitary stem cell regulation: who is pulling the strings? J Endocrinol 2017; 234:R135-R158. [PMID: 28615294 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gland plays a pivotal role in the endocrine system, steering fundamental processes of growth, metabolism, reproduction and coping with stress. The adult pituitary contains resident stem cells, which are highly quiescent in homeostatic conditions. However, the cells show marked signs of activation during processes of increased cell remodeling in the gland, including maturation at neonatal age, adaptation to physiological demands, regeneration upon injury and growth of local tumors. Although functions of pituitary stem cells are slowly but gradually uncovered, their regulation largely remains virgin territory. Since postnatal stem cells in general reiterate embryonic developmental pathways, attention is first being given to regulatory networks involved in pituitary embryogenesis. Here, we give an overview of the current knowledge on the NOTCH, WNT, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, SHH and Hippo pathways in the pituitary stem/progenitor cell compartment during various (activation) conditions from embryonic over neonatal to adult age. Most information comes from expression analyses of molecular components belonging to these networks, whereas functional extrapolation is still very limited. From this overview, it emerges that the 'big five' embryonic pathways are indeed reiterated in the stem cells of the 'lazy' homeostatic postnatal pituitary, further magnified en route to activation in more energetic, physiological and pathological remodeling conditions. Increasing the knowledge on the molecular players that pull the regulatory strings of the pituitary stem cells will not only provide further fundamental insight in postnatal pituitary homeostasis and activation, but also clues toward the development of regenerative ideas for improving treatment of pituitary deficiency and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Cox
- Department of Development and RegenerationCluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Heleen Roose
- Department of Development and RegenerationCluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annelies Vennekens
- Department of Development and RegenerationCluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hugo Vankelecom
- Department of Development and RegenerationCluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
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15
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Carreno G, Apps JR, Lodge EJ, Panousopoulos L, Haston S, Gonzalez-Meljem JM, Hahn H, Andoniadou CL, Martinez-Barbera JP. Hypothalamic sonic hedgehog is required for cell specification and proliferation of LHX3/LHX4 pituitary embryonic precursors. Development 2017; 144:3289-3302. [PMID: 28807898 DOI: 10.1242/dev.153387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is an essential morphogenetic signal that dictates cell fate decisions in several developing organs in mammals. In vitro data suggest that SHH is required to specify LHX3+/LHX4+ Rathke's pouch (RP) progenitor identity. However, in vivo studies have failed to reveal such a function, supporting instead a crucial role for SHH in promoting proliferation of these RP progenitors and for differentiation of pituitary cell types. Here, we have used a genetic approach to demonstrate that activation of the SHH pathway is necessary to induce LHX3+/LHX4+ RP identity in mouse embryos. First, we show that conditional deletion of Shh in the anterior hypothalamus results in a fully penetrant phenotype characterised by a complete arrest of RP development, with lack of Lhx3/Lhx4 expression in RP epithelium at 9.0 days post coitum (dpc) and total loss of pituitary tissue by 12.5 dpc. Conversely, overactivation of the SHH pathway by conditional deletion of Ptch1 in RP progenitors leads to severe hyperplasia and enlargement of the Sox2+ stem cell compartment by the end of gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Carreno
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - John R Apps
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Emily J Lodge
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Leonidas Panousopoulos
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Scott Haston
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Jose Mario Gonzalez-Meljem
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Heidi Hahn
- Institute of Human Genetics, Tumor Genetics Group, University of Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Cynthia L Andoniadou
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK.,Department of Internal Medicine III, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Juan Pedro Martinez-Barbera
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
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16
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Abstract
This article summarizes pituitary development and function as well as specific mutations of genes encoding the following transcription factors: HESX1, LHX3, LHX4, POU1F1, PROP1, and OTX2. Although several additional genetic defects related to hypopituitarism have been identified, this article focuses on these selected factors, as they have been well described in the literature in terms of clinical characterization of affected patients and molecular mechanisms of action, and therefore, are very relevant to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Gangat
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 89 French Street, Room 1360, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA.
| | - Sally Radovick
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 89 French Street, Room 4212, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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17
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Pozzi S, Tan WH, Martinez-Barbera J. Characterization of a novel HESX1 mutation in a pediatric case of septo-optic dysplasia. Clin Case Rep 2017; 5:463-470. [PMID: 28396770 PMCID: PMC5378840 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Septo‐optic dysplasia (SOD) is a rare condition for which the precise etiology is still unclear. Elucidating the genetic component of SOD is a difficult but necessary task for the future. We describe herein a novel HESX1 c.475C>T (p.R159W) mutation and demonstrate its potential pathogenicity in the development of this rare disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Pozzi
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Research Programme Birth Defects Research Centre UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health London UK
| | - Wen-Hann Tan
- Division of Genetics and Genomics Boston Children's Hospital Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - JuanPedro Martinez-Barbera
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Research Programme Birth Defects Research Centre UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health London UK
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18
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Yuan D, Yang X, Yuan Z, Zhao Y, Guo J. TLE1 function and therapeutic potential in cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 8:15971-15976. [PMID: 27852056 PMCID: PMC5362539 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Groucho (Gro)/Transducin-like enhancer of split (TLE) family proteins act as co-repressors of many transcription factors, and are involved in key signaling pathways. TLE1 negatively regulates inflammation and has potential roles in various diseases, including cancer. Previous studies suggest TLE1 could be used as a diagnostic marker and is a possible therapeutic target in various malignancies. It is therefore important to elucidate the mechanisms underlying TLE1 function during cancer initiation and metastasis. In this review, we highlight the functions of TLE1 in cancer and explore targeted approaches for cancer diagnosis and treatment. In particular, we discuss the TLE1 function in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenpeng Yuan
- Department of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Institute and Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yanqing Zhao
- Institute of Medical Information, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junchao Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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19
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Bayramov AV, Ermakova GV, Eroshkin FM, Kucheryavyy AV, Martynova NY, Zaraisky AG. The presence of Anf/Hesx1 homeobox gene in lampreys suggests that it could play an important role in emergence of telencephalon. Sci Rep 2016; 6:39849. [PMID: 28008996 PMCID: PMC5180219 DOI: 10.1038/srep39849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulated evidence indicates that the core genetic mechanisms regulating early patterning of the brain rudiment in vertebrates are very similar to those operating during development of the anterior region of invertebrate embryos. However, the mechanisms underlying the morphological differences between the elaborate vertebrate brain and its simpler invertebrate counterpart remain poorly understood. Recently, we hypothesized that the emergence of the most anterior unit of the vertebrate brain, the telencephalon, could be related to the appearance in vertebrates’ ancestors of a unique homeobox gene, Anf/Hesx1(further Anf), which is absent from all invertebrates and regulates the earliest steps of telencephalon development in vertebrates. However, the failure of Anf to be detected in one of the most basal extant vertebrate species, the lamprey, seriously compromises this hypothesis. Here, we report the cloning of Anf in three lamprey species and demonstrate that this gene is indeed expressed in embryos in the same pattern as in other vertebrates and executes the same functions by inhibiting the expression of the anterior general regulator Otx2 in favour of the telencephalic regulator FoxG1. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the Anf homeobox gene may have been important in the evolution of the telencephalon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey V Bayramov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Galina V Ermakova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Fedor M Eroshkin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Alexandr V Kucheryavyy
- Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Natalia Y Martynova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Andrey G Zaraisky
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
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20
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Mortensen AH, Camper SA. Cocaine-and Amphetamine Regulated Transcript (CART) Peptide Is Expressed in Precursor Cells and Somatotropes of the Mouse Pituitary Gland. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0160068. [PMID: 27685990 PMCID: PMC5042496 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0160068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cocaine-and Amphetamine Regulated Transcript (CART) peptide is expressed in the brain, endocrine and neuroendocrine systems and secreted into the serum. It is thought to play a role in regulation of hypothalamic pituitary functions. Here we report a spatial and temporal analysis of Cart expression in the pituitaries of adult and developing normal and mutant mice with hypopituitarism. We found that Prop1 is not necessary for initiation of Cart expression in the fetal pituitary at e14.5, but it is required indirectly for maintenance of Cart expression in the postnatal anterior pituitary gland. Pou1f1 deficiency has no effect on Cart expression before or after birth. There is no 1:1 correspondence between CART and any particular cell type. In neonates, CART is detected primarily in non-proliferating, POU1F1-positive cells. CART is also found in some cells that express TSH and GH suggesting a correspondence with committed progenitors of the POU1F1 lineage. In summary, we have characterized the normal temporal and cell specific expression of CART in mouse development and demonstrate that postnatal CART expression in the pituitary gland requires PROP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda H. Mortensen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109–5618, United States of America
| | - Sally A. Camper
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109–5618, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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21
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Jouhilahti EM, Madissoon E, Vesterlund L, Töhönen V, Krjutškov K, Plaza Reyes A, Petropoulos S, Månsson R, Linnarsson S, Bürglin T, Lanner F, Hovatta O, Katayama S, Kere J. The human PRD-like homeobox gene LEUTX has a central role in embryo genome activation. Development 2016; 143:3459-3469. [PMID: 27578796 PMCID: PMC5087614 DOI: 10.1242/dev.134510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Leucine twenty homeobox (LEUTX) is a paired (PRD)-like homeobox gene that is expressed almost exclusively in human embryos during preimplantation development. We previously identified a novel transcription start site for the predicted human LEUTX gene based on the transcriptional analysis of human preimplantation embryos. The novel variant encodes a protein with a complete homeodomain. Here, we provide a detailed description of the molecular cloning of the complete homeodomain-containing LEUTX Using a human embryonic stem cell overexpression model we show that the complete homeodomain isoform is functional and sufficient to activate the transcription of a large proportion of the genes that are upregulated in human embryo genome activation (EGA), whereas the previously predicted partial homeodomain isoform is largely inactive. Another PRD-like transcription factor, DPRX, is then upregulated as a powerful repressor of transcription. We propose a two-stage model of human EGA in which LEUTX acts as a transcriptional activator at the 4-cell stage, and DPRX as a balancing repressor at the 8-cell stage. We conclude that LEUTX is a candidate regulator of human EGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eeva-Mari Jouhilahti
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge 141 83, Sweden
| | - Elo Madissoon
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge 141 83, Sweden
| | - Liselotte Vesterlund
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge 141 83, Sweden
| | - Virpi Töhönen
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge 141 83, Sweden
| | - Kaarel Krjutškov
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge 141 83, Sweden Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu 50410, Estonia
| | - Alvaro Plaza Reyes
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm 141 86, Sweden
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm 141 86, Sweden
| | - Robert Månsson
- Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 14183, Sweden
| | - Sten Linnarsson
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Thomas Bürglin
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel 4058, Switzerland
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm 141 86, Sweden
| | - Outi Hovatta
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm 141 86, Sweden
| | - Shintaro Katayama
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge 141 83, Sweden
| | - Juha Kere
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Novum, Huddinge 141 83, Sweden Science for Life Laboratory, Tomtebodavägen 23 A, Solna 171 21, Sweden Molecular Neurology Research Program, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, Biomedicum 1, Haartmaninkatu 8, Helsinki 00290, Finland
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22
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Goldsmith S, Lovell-Badge R, Rizzoti K. SOX2 is sequentially required for progenitor proliferation and lineage specification in the developing pituitary. Development 2016; 143:2376-88. [PMID: 27226320 PMCID: PMC4958329 DOI: 10.1242/dev.137984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Sox2 mutations are associated with pituitary hormone deficiencies and the protein is required for pituitary progenitor proliferation, but its function has not been well characterized in this context. SOX2 is known to activate expression of Six6, encoding a homeodomain transcription factor, in the ventral diencephalon. Here, we find that the same relationship likely exists in the pituitary. Moreover, because Six6 deletion is associated with a similar phenotype as described here for loss of Sox2, Six6 appears to be an essential downstream target of SOX2 in the gland. We also uncover a second role for SOX2. Whereas cell differentiation is reduced in Sox2 mutants, some endocrine cells are generated, such as POMC-positive cells in the intermediate lobe. However, loss of SOX2 here results in complete downregulation of the melanotroph pioneer factor PAX7, and subsequently a switch of identity from melanotrophs to ectopic corticotrophs. Rescuing proliferation by ablating the cell cycle negative regulator p27 (also known as Cdkn1b) in Sox2 mutants does not restore melanotroph emergence. Therefore, SOX2 has two independent roles during pituitary morphogenesis; firstly, promotion of progenitor proliferation, and subsequently, acquisition of melanotroph identity. Summary: SOX2 has two independent roles during pituitary morphogenesis: promoting progenitor proliferation via SIX6 and determining melanotroph identity via PAX7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Goldsmith
- The Francis Crick Institute, Mill Hill Laboratory, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1AA, UK
| | - Robin Lovell-Badge
- The Francis Crick Institute, Mill Hill Laboratory, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1AA, UK
| | - Karine Rizzoti
- The Francis Crick Institute, Mill Hill Laboratory, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1AA, UK
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23
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Takagi M, Takahashi M, Ohtsu Y, Sato T, Narumi S, Arakawa H, Hasegawa T. A novel mutation in HESX1 causes combined pituitary hormone deficiency without septo optic dysplasia phenotypes. Endocr J 2016; 63:405-10. [PMID: 26781211 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej15-0409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous and/or homozygous HESX1 mutations have been reported to cause isolated growth hormone deficiency (IGHD) or combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD), in association with septo optic dysplasia (SOD). We report a novel heterozygous HESX1 mutation in a CPHD patient without SOD phenotypes. The propositus was a one-year-old Japanese girl. Shortly after birth, she was found to be hypoglycemic. She was diagnosed with central adrenal insufficiency based on low cortisol and ACTH at a time of severe hypoglycemia. Further endocrine studies indicated that the patient also had central hypothyroidism and growth hormone deficiency. Using a next-generation sequencing strategy, we identified a novel heterozygous HESX1 mutation, c.326G>A (p.Arg109Gln). Western blotting and subcellular localization revealed no significant difference between wild type and mutant HESX1. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed that the mutant HESX1 abrogated DNA-binding ability. Mutant HESX1 was unable to repress PROP1-mediated activation. In conclusion, this study identified Arg109 as a critical residue in the HESX1 protein and extends our understanding of the phenotypic features, molecular mechanism, and developmental course associated with mutations in HESX1. When multiple genes need to be analyzed for mutations simultaneously, targeted sequence analysis of interesting genomic regions is an attractive approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Takagi
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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24
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Gaston-Massuet C, McCabe MJ, Scagliotti V, Young RM, Carreno G, Gregory LC, Jayakody SA, Pozzi S, Gualtieri A, Basu B, Koniordou M, Wu CI, Bancalari RE, Rahikkala E, Veijola R, Lopponen T, Graziola F, Turton J, Signore M, Mousavy Gharavy SN, Charolidi N, Sokol SY, Andoniadou CL, Wilson SW, Merrill BJ, Dattani MT, Martinez-Barbera JP. Transcription factor 7-like 1 is involved in hypothalamo-pituitary axis development in mice and humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E548-57. [PMID: 26764381 PMCID: PMC4747739 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1503346113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant embryonic development of the hypothalamus and/or pituitary gland in humans results in congenital hypopituitarism (CH). Transcription factor 7-like 1 (TCF7L1), an important regulator of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, is expressed in the developing forebrain and pituitary gland, but its role during hypothalamo-pituitary (HP) axis formation or involvement in human CH remains elusive. Using a conditional genetic approach in the mouse, we first demonstrate that TCF7L1 is required in the prospective hypothalamus to maintain normal expression of the hypothalamic signals involved in the induction and subsequent expansion of Rathke's pouch progenitors. Next, we reveal that the function of TCF7L1 during HP axis development depends exclusively on the repressing activity of TCF7L1 and does not require its interaction with β-catenin. Finally, we report the identification of two independent missense variants in human TCF7L1, p.R92P and p.R400Q, in a cohort of patients with forebrain and/or pituitary defects. We demonstrate that these variants exhibit reduced repressing activity in vitro and in vivo relative to wild-type TCF7L1. Together, our data provide support for a conserved molecular function of TCF7L1 as a transcriptional repressor during HP axis development in mammals and identify variants in this transcription factor that are likely to contribute to the etiology of CH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carles Gaston-Massuet
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J McCabe
- Genetics and Epigenetics in Health and Disease Section, Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Valeria Scagliotti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Rodrigo M Young
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriela Carreno
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Louise C Gregory
- Genetics and Epigenetics in Health and Disease Section, Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Sujatha A Jayakody
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Pozzi
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Angelica Gualtieri
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Basudha Basu
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029
| | - Markela Koniordou
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Chun-I Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, IL 60607
| | - Rodrigo E Bancalari
- Genetics and Epigenetics in Health and Disease Section, Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Elisa Rahikkala
- Research Unit for Pediatrics, Dermatology, Clinical Genetics, Obstetrics and Gynecology (PEDEGO) and Medical Research Center (MRC) Oulu, University of Oulu, FIN-90029, Oulu, Finland; Department of Clinical Genetics, Oulu University Hospital, FIN-90029, Oulu, Finland
| | - Riitta Veijola
- Department of Pediatrics, PEDEGO and MRC Oulu, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, FIN-90014, Oulu, Finland
| | - Tuija Lopponen
- Department of Child Neurology, Kuopio University Hospital, FIN 70029, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Federica Graziola
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - James Turton
- Genetics and Epigenetics in Health and Disease Section, Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Massimo Signore
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Seyedeh Neda Mousavy Gharavy
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Nicoletta Charolidi
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Sergei Y Sokol
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029
| | - Cynthia Lilian Andoniadou
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen W Wilson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Bradley J Merrill
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, IL 60607
| | - Mehul T Dattani
- Genetics and Epigenetics in Health and Disease Section, Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Juan Pedro Martinez-Barbera
- Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, University College London Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom;
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Li WZ, Wang ZW, Chen LL, Xue HN, Chen X, Guo ZK, Zhang Y. Hesx1 enhances pluripotency by working downstream of multiple pluripotency-associated signaling pathways. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2015; 464:936-42. [PMID: 26188092 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.07.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Hesx1, a homeobox gene expressed in embryonic stem cells (ESCs), has been implicated in the core transcription factors governing the pluripotent state. However, data about the underlying mechanism of how Hesx1 is involved in maintaining pluripotency is still scarce. In this study, we find Hesx1 responds to multiple pluripotency-related pathway inhibitors as well as LIF stimulation. Particularly, the expression of Hesx1 can be readily induced by dual inhibition (2i) of glycogen synthase kinase 3 and mitogen-activated protein kinase. Forced expression of Hesx1 can partially compensate for the withdrawal of either LIF or each component of 2i. We also demonstrate that LIF and each inhibitor of 2i can induce Hesx1 independent of one another. We tentatively put forward that Hesx1 is a common downstream target of LIF- and 2i-mediated self-renewal signaling pathways and plays an important role in maintaining ESC identity. Our study extends the methods of identifying the missing crucial factors in establishing ESC pluripotency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Zhong Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Zhi-Wei Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, PR China
| | - Lin-Lin Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Hong-Ni Xue
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Xi Chen
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200240 Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ze-Kun Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China.
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China.
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26
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Agarwal M, Kumar P, Mathew SJ. The Groucho/Transducin-like enhancer of split protein family in animal development. IUBMB Life 2015; 67:472-81. [PMID: 26172616 DOI: 10.1002/iub.1395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Corepressors are proteins that cannot bind DNA directly but repress transcription by interacting with partner proteins. The Groucho/Transducin-Like Enhancer of Split (TLE) are a conserved family of corepressor proteins present in animals ranging from invertebrates such as Drosophila to vertebrates such as mice and humans. Groucho/TLE proteins perform important functions throughout the life span of animals, interacting with several pathways and regulating fundamental processes such as metabolism. However, these proteins have especially crucial functions in animal development, where they are required in multiple tissues in a temporally regulated manner. In this review, we summarize the functions of the Groucho/TLE proteins during animal development, emphasizing on specific tissues where they play essential roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Agarwal
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Bio-Science Cluster, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Pankaj Kumar
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Bio-Science Cluster, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Sam J Mathew
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Bio-Science Cluster, Faridabad, Haryana, India
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27
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Musumeci G, Castorina S, Castrogiovanni P, Loreto C, Leonardi R, Aiello FC, Magro G, Imbesi R. A journey through the pituitary gland: Development, structure and function, with emphasis on embryo-foetal and later development. Acta Histochem 2015; 117:355-66. [PMID: 25858531 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2015.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 12/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gland and the hypothalamus are morphologically and functionally associated in the endocrine and neuroendocrine control of other endocrine glands. They therefore play a key role in a number of regulatory feedback processes that co-ordinate the whole endocrine system. Here we review the neuroendocrine system, from the discoveries that led to its identification to some recently clarified embryological, functional, and morphological aspects. In particular we review the pituitary gland and the main notions related to its development, organization, cell differentiation, and vascularization. Given the crucial importance of the factors controlling neuroendocrine system development to understand parvocellular neuron function and the aetiology of the congenital disorders related to hypothalamic-pituitary axis dysfunction, we also provide an overview of the molecular and genetic studies that have advanced our knowledge in the field. Through the action of the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland is involved in the control of a broad range of key aspects of our lives: the review focuses on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, particularly GnRH, whose abnormal secretion is associated with clinical conditions involving delayed or absent puberty and reproductive dysfunction.
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28
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Abstract
Significant progress has been made recently in unravelling the embryonic events leading to pituitary morphogenesis, both in vivo and in vitro. This includes dissection of the molecular mechanisms controlling patterning of the ventral diencephalon that regulate formation of the pituitary anlagen or Rathke's pouch. There is also a better characterisation of processes that underlie maintenance of pituitary progenitors, specification of endocrine lineages and the three-dimensional organisation of newly differentiated endocrine cells. Furthermore, a population of adult pituitary stem cells (SCs), originating from embryonic progenitors, have been described and shown to have not only regenerative potential, but also the capacity to induce tumour formation. Finally, the successful recapitulation in vitro of embryonic events leading to generation of endocrine cells from embryonic SCs, and their subsequent transplantation, represents exciting advances towards the use of regenerative medicine to treat endocrine deficits. In this review, an up-to-date description of pituitary morphogenesis will be provided and discussed with particular reference to pituitary SC studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Rizzoti
- Division of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental GeneticsMRC National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1AA, UK
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29
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Elsayed SM, Phillips JB, Heller R, Thoenes M, Elsobky E, Nürnberg G, Nürnberg P, Seland S, Ebermann I, Altmüller J, Thiele H, Toliat M, Körber F, Hu XJ, Wu YD, Zaki MS, Abdel-Salam G, Gleeson J, Boltshauser E, Westerfield M, Bolz HJ. Non-manifesting AHI1 truncations indicate localized loss-of-function tolerance in a severe Mendelian disease gene. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:2594-603. [PMID: 25616960 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Determination of variant pathogenicity represents a major challenge in the era of high-throughput sequencing. Erroneous categorization may result if variants affect genes that are in fact dispensable. We demonstrate that this also applies to rare, apparently unambiguous truncating mutations of an established disease gene. By whole-exome sequencing (WES) in a consanguineous family with congenital non-syndromic deafness, we unexpectedly identified a homozygous nonsense variant, p.Arg1066*, in AHI1, a gene associated with Joubert syndrome (JBTS), a severe recessive ciliopathy. None of four homozygotes expressed any signs of JBTS, and one of them had normal hearing, which also ruled out p.Arg1066* as the cause of deafness. Homozygosity mapping and WES in the only other reported JBTS family with a homozygous C-terminal truncation (p.Trp1088Leufs*16) confirmed AHI1 as disease gene, but based on a more N-terminal missense mutation impairing WD40-repeat formation. Morpholinos against N-terminal zebrafish Ahi1, orthologous to where human mutations cluster, produced a ciliopathy, but targeting near human p.Arg1066 and p.Trp1088 did not. Most AHI1 mutations in JBTS patients result in truncated protein lacking WD40-repeats and the SH3 domain; disease was hitherto attributed to loss of these protein interaction modules. Our findings indicate that normal development does not require the C-terminal SH3 domain. This has far-reaching implications, considering that variants like p.Glu984* identified by preconception screening ('Kingsmore panel') do not necessarily indicate JBTS carriership. Genomes of individuals with consanguineous background are enriched for homozygous variants that may unmask dispensable regions of disease genes and unrecognized false positives in diagnostic large-scale sequencing and preconception carrier screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solaf M Elsayed
- Medical Genetics Center, Cairo 11566, Egypt, Children's Hospital, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | | | - Raoul Heller
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Michaela Thoenes
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Ezzat Elsobky
- Medical Genetics Center, Cairo 11566, Egypt, Children's Hospital, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Gudrun Nürnberg
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG) and Centre for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Nürnberg
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG) and Centre for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, 50674 Cologne, Germany
| | - Saskia Seland
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Inga Ebermann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Janine Altmüller
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany, Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG) and Centre for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Holger Thiele
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG) and Centre for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Mohammad Toliat
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG) and Centre for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Friederike Körber
- Department of Radiology, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Xue-Jia Hu
- Laboratory of Computational Chemistry and Drug Design, Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, 518000 Shenzhen, P. R. China
| | - Yun-Dong Wu
- Laboratory of Computational Chemistry and Drug Design, Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, 518000 Shenzhen, P. R. China, College of Chemistry, Peking University, 100871 Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Maha S Zaki
- Department of Clinical Genetics, National Research Centre, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Ghada Abdel-Salam
- Department of Clinical Genetics, National Research Centre, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Joseph Gleeson
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Neurosciences, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Eugen Boltshauser
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland and
| | - Monte Westerfield
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Hanno J Bolz
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany, Center for Human Genetics, Bioscientia, 55218 Ingelheim, Germany
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30
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Mortensen AH, Schade V, Lamonerie T, Camper SA. Deletion of OTX2 in neural ectoderm delays anterior pituitary development. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 24:939-53. [PMID: 25315894 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OTX2 is a homeodomain transcription factor that is necessary for normal head development in mouse and man. Heterozygosity for loss-of-function alleles causes an incompletely penetrant, haploinsufficiency disorder. Affected individuals exhibit a spectrum of features that range from developmental defects in eye and/or pituitary development to acephaly. To investigate the mechanism underlying the pituitary defects, we used different cre lines to inactivate Otx2 in early head development and in the prospective anterior and posterior lobes. Mice homozygous for Otx2 deficiency in early head development and pituitary oral ectoderm exhibit craniofacial defects and pituitary gland dysmorphology, but normal pituitary cell specification. The morphological defects mimic those observed in humans and mice with OTX2 heterozygous mutations. Mice homozygous for Otx2 deficiency in the pituitary neural ectoderm exhibited altered patterning of gene expression and ablation of FGF signaling. The posterior pituitary lobe and stalk, which normally arise from neural ectoderm, were extremely hypoplastic. Otx2 expression was intact in Rathke's pouch, the precursor to the anterior lobe, but the anterior lobe was hypoplastic. The lack of FGF signaling from the neural ectoderm was sufficient to impair anterior lobe growth, but not the differentiation of hormone-producing cells. This study demonstrates that Otx2 expression in the neural ectoderm is important intrinsically for the development of the posterior lobe and pituitary stalk, and it has significant extrinsic effects on anterior pituitary growth. Otx2 expression early in head development is important for establishing normal craniofacial features including development of the brain, eyes and pituitary gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda H Mortensen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5618, USA and
| | - Vanessa Schade
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5618, USA and
| | - Thomas Lamonerie
- Institut de Biologie Valrose, University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, CNRS UMR7277, Inserm U1091, Nice 06108, France
| | - Sally A Camper
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5618, USA and
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Zhang P, Dressler GR. The Groucho protein Grg4 suppresses Smad7 to activate BMP signaling. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 440:454-9. [PMID: 24099773 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.09.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Groucho related genes encode transcriptional repressor proteins critical for normal developmental processes. The bone morphogenetic proteins belong to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily and play important signaling roles in development and disease. However, the regulation of BMP signaling, especially within cells, is largely unknown. In this report, we show that expression of the Groucho related gene Grg4 robustly activates the expression of a BMP reporter gene, as well as enhancing and sustaining the upregulation of the endogenous Id1 gene induced by BMP7. BMP7 administration did not affect the endogenous level of Grg4 nor did it enhance the phosphorylation of receptor activated Smad proteins. Rather, Grg4 expression reduced the levels of the endogenous inhibitory Smad7, thus increasing the transcriptional responses mediated by BMP responsive sequences. The data point to a novel mechanisms for attenuating BMP signaling through altering the ratio of activating versus inhibitory Smad proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
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32
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Sugiyama Y, Ikeshita N, Shibahara H, Yamamoto D, Kawagishi M, Iguchi G, Iida K, Takahashi Y, Kaji H, Chihara K, Okimura Y. A PROP1-binding factor, AES cloned by yeast two-hybrid assay represses PROP1-induced Pit-1 gene expression. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 376:93-8. [PMID: 23732115 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2012] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PROP1 mutation causes combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD). Several mutations are located in a transactivation domain (TAD) of Prop1, and the loss of TAD binding to cofactors is likely the cause of CPHD. PROP1 cofactors have not yet been identified. In the present study, we aimed to identify the PROP1-interacting proteins from the human brain cDNA library. Using a yeast two-hybrid assay, we cloned nine candidate proteins that may bind to PROP1. Of those nine candidates, amino-terminal enhancer of split (AES) was the most abundant, and we analyzed the AES function. AES dose-dependently decreased the PROP1-induced Pit-1 reporter gene expression. An immunoprecipitation assay revealed the relationship between AES and PROP1. In a mammalian two-hybrid assay, a leucine zipper-like motif of the AES Q domain was identified as a region that interacted with TAD. These results indicated that AES was a corepressor of PROP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Sugiyama
- Department of Biophysics, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Science, 7-10-2, Tomogaoka, Suma-ku, Kobe 654-0142, Japan
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33
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Veenvliet JV, Dos Santos MTMA, Kouwenhoven WM, von Oerthel L, Lim JL, van der Linden AJA, Koerkamp MJAG, Holstege FCP, Smidt MP. Specification of dopaminergic subsets involves interplay of En1 and Pitx3. Development 2013; 140:3373-84. [PMID: 23863478 DOI: 10.1242/dev.094565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesodiencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons control locomotion and emotion and are affected in multiple psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD). The homeodomain transcription factor Pitx3 is pivotal in mdDA neuron development and loss of Pitx3 results in programming deficits in a rostrolateral subpopulation of mdDA neurons destined to form the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc), reminiscent of the specific cell loss observed in PD. We show here that in adult mice in which the gene encoding a second homeoprotein, engrailed 1 (En1), has been deleted, dramatic loss of mdDA neurons and striatal innervation defects were observed, partially reminiscent of defects observed in Pitx3(-/-) mice. We then continue to reveal developmental crosstalk between En1 and Pitx3 through genome-wide expression analysis. During development, both En1 and Pitx3 are required to induce expression of mdDA genes in the rostrolateral subset destined to form the SNc. By contrast, Pitx3 and En1 reciprocally regulate a separate gene cluster, which includes Cck, demarcating a caudal mdDA subset in wild-type embryos. Whereas En1 is crucial for induction of this caudal phenotype, Pitx3 antagonizes it rostrolaterally. The combinatorial action of En1 and Pitx3 is potentially realized through at least three levels of molecular interaction: (1) influencing each other's expression level, (2) releasing histone deacetylase-mediated repression of Nurr1 target genes and (3) modulating En1 activity through Pitx3-driven activation of En1 modulatory proteins. These findings show how two crucial mediators of mdDA neuronal development, En1 and Pitx3, interact in dopaminergic subset specification, the importance of which is exemplified by the specific vulnerability of the SNc found in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse V Veenvliet
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 3511 PG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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34
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Abstract
Wnt signalling is activated in both pituitary organogenesis and its mature function. Wnt ligands and Wnt signalling pathways are critical for the regulation of the formation of the pituitary. In the mature pituitary, Wnt signalling pathways control cell activity and may stimulate cell proliferation in both physiological and pathological processes. This review compares Wnt signalling pathways active in the developing and mature pituitary and explores how this gives us further insight into the development of pituitary adenomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J G Chambers
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Group, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, Centre for Endocrinology and Diabetes, Institute of Human Development, University of Manchester, AV Hill Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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35
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Identification of HESX1 mutations in Kallmann syndrome. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1831-7. [PMID: 23465708 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.01.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Revised: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether HESX1 mutations are present in patients with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH)/Kallmann syndrome (KS). DESIGN Polymerase chain reaction-based DNA sequencing was performed on 217 well-characterized IHH/KS patients. Putative missense mutations were analyzed by sorting intolerant from tolerant (SIFT) and Clustal Ω. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Two hundred seventeen patients with IHH/KS and 192 controls. INTERVENTION(S) Deoxyribonucleic acid was extracted from patients and controls; genotype/phenotype comparisons were made. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Deoxyribonucleic acid sequence of HESX1, SIFT analysis, and ortholog alignment. RESULT(S) Two novel heterozygous missense mutations (p.H42Y and p.V75L) and previously reported heterozygous missense mutation p.Q6H in HESX1 were identified in 3 of 217 patients (1.4%). All were males with KS. Both p.Q6H and p.H42Y were predicted to be deleterious by SIFT, whereas p.V75L was conserved in 8 of 9 species. No other IHH/KS gene mutations were present. CONCLUSION(S) HESX1 mutations may cause KS in addition to more severe phenotypes. Our findings expand the phenotypic spectrum of HESX1 mutations in humans, thereby broadening its role in development.
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Davis SW, Ellsworth BS, Peréz Millan MI, Gergics P, Schade V, Foyouzi N, Brinkmeier ML, Mortensen AH, Camper SA. Pituitary gland development and disease: from stem cell to hormone production. Curr Top Dev Biol 2013; 106:1-47. [PMID: 24290346 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-416021-7.00001-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Many aspects of pituitary development have become better understood in the past two decades. The signaling pathways regulating pituitary growth and shape have emerged, and the balancing interactions between the pathways are now appreciated. Markers for multipotent progenitor cells are being identified, and signature transcription factors have been discovered for most hormone-producing cell types. We now realize that pulsatile hormone secretion involves a 3D integration of cellular networks. About a dozen genes are known to cause pituitary hypoplasia when mutated due to their essential roles in pituitary development. Similarly, a few genes are known that predispose to familial endocrine neoplasia, and several genes mutated in sporadic pituitary adenomas are documented. In the next decade, we anticipate gleaning a deeper appreciation of these processes at the molecular level, insight into the development of the hypophyseal portal blood system, and evolution of better therapeutics for congenital and acquired hormone deficiencies and for common craniopharyngiomas and pituitary adenomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon W Davis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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Ellestad LE, Porter TE. Ras-dva is a novel Pit-1- and glucocorticoid-regulated gene in the embryonic anterior pituitary gland. Endocrinology 2013; 154:308-19. [PMID: 23161868 PMCID: PMC3591683 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids play a role in functional differentiation of pituitary somatotrophs and lactotrophs during embryogenesis. Ras-dva was identified as a gene regulated by anterior neural fold protein-1/homeobox expressed in embryonic stem cells-1, a transcription factor known to be critical in pituitary development, and has an expression profile in the chicken embryonic pituitary gland that is consistent with in vivo regulation by glucocorticoids. The objective of this study was to characterize expression and regulation of ras-dva mRNA in the developing chicken anterior pituitary. Pituitary ras-dva mRNA levels increased during embryogenesis to a maximum on embryonic day (e) 18 and then decreased and remained low or undetectable after hatch. Ras-dva expression was highly enriched in the pituitary gland on e18 relative to other tissues examined. Glucocorticoid treatment of pituitary cells from mid- and late-stage embryos rapidly increased ras-dva mRNA, suggesting it may be a direct transcriptional target of glucocorticoids. A reporter construct driven by 4 kb of the chicken ras-dva 5'-flanking region, containing six putative pituitary-specific transcription factor-1 (Pit-1) binding sites and two potential glucocorticoid receptor (GR) binding sites, was highly activated in embryonic pituitary cells and up-regulated by corticosterone. Mutagenesis of the most proximal Pit-1 site decreased promoter activity in chicken e11 pituitary cells, indicating regulation of ras-dva by Pit-1. However, mutating putative GR binding sites did not substantially reduce induction of ras-dva promoter activity by corticosterone, suggesting additional DNA elements within the 5'-flanking region are responsible for glucocorticoid regulation. We have identified ras-dva as a glucocorticoid-regulated gene that is likely expressed in cells of the Pit-1 lineage within the developing anterior pituitary gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Ellestad
- Molecular and Cell Biology Program and Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
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38
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Abstract
Estrogen receptor (ER) is a hormone-regulated transcription factor that controls cell division and differentiation in the ovary, breast, and uterus. The expression of ER is a common feature of the majority of breast cancers, which is used as a therapeutic target. Recent genetic studies have shown that ER binding occurs in regions distant to the promoters of estrogen target genes. These studies have also demonstrated that ER binding is accompanied with the binding of other transcription factors, which regulate the function of ER and response to anti-estrogen therapies. In this review, we explain how these factors influence the interaction of ER to chromatin and their cooperation for ER transcriptional activity. Moreover, we describe how the expression of these factors dictates the response to anti-estrogen therapies. Finally, we discuss how cytoplasmatic signaling pathways may modulate the function of ER and its cooperating transcription factors.
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39
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Dressler GR. The specification and maintenance of renal cell types by epigenetic factors. Organogenesis 2012; 5:73-82. [PMID: 19794903 DOI: 10.4161/org.5.2.8930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The specification of cell lineages and patterning in the embryo occurs sequentially as specific regions are increasingly restricted in their developmental fates. When and how this occurs is still not entirely clear. Nevertheless, the roles of epigenetic regulatory genes in partitioning the genome into active and inactive domains is evident in a variety of organisms and is highly conserved through evolution. The function of Pax2 in the kidney has been inferred by the phenotypic analysis of loss-of-function mutants in mice, fish and humans. Although Pax2 and the related gene, Pax8, are essential for early intermediate mesoderm specification and are found in the epithelial lineage arising from that mesoderm, how these proteins regulate cell lineage restriction and gene expression patterns has remained obscure. Our recent data, suggests that Pax proteins help establish chromatin domains within cell lineages by providing the locus and tissue specificity for epigenetic imprinting complexes that modify histones. The novel protein PTIP is a key adaptor that links Pax proteins and possibly many other types of DNA binding proteins to a histone H3K4 methyltransferase complex. Given the prevalence of Pax2 expression in kidney development and in kidney disease, we now need to address the effects of epigenetics on renal disease states, on the stability of the terminal epithelial phenotype, and in the aging cell.
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40
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Reynaud R, Jayakody SA, Monnier C, Saveanu A, Bouligand J, Guedj AM, Simonin G, Lecomte P, Barlier A, Rondard P, Martinez-Barbera JP, Guiochon-Mantel A, Brue T. PROKR2 variants in multiple hypopituitarism with pituitary stalk interruption. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012; 97:E1068-73. [PMID: 22466334 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2011-3056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Pituitary stalk interruption represents a frequent feature of congenital hypopituitarism, but only rare cases have been assigned to a known genetic cause. OBJECTIVE Using a candidate gene approach, we tested several genes as potential causes of hypopituitarism with pituitary stalk interruption. We hypothesized that ectopic posterior pituitary may be a consequence of defective neuronal axon projections along the pituitary stalk or defective angiogenesis of hypophyseal portal circulation. Considering the role of the prokineticin 2 pathway in angiogenesis and neuronal migration, we screened PROK2 and PROKR2 genes. DESIGN PROK2 and PROKR2 and all genes previously known to be involved in hypopituitarism with pituitary stalk interruption (LHX4, HESX1, OTX2, and SOX3) were screened in 72 index cases with pituitary stalk interruption syndrome from the GENHYPOPIT database. In vitro studies were performed to assess the functional consequences of allelic variants. RESULTS We identified two heterozygous PROKR2 mutations (p.Leu173Arg and p.Arg85His) previously reported in isolated hypogonadotroph hypogonadism and a novel PROKR2 variant (p.Ala51Thr) that, in contrast with both other mutations, did not impair receptor signaling activity. Three allelic variants of HESX1 were identified: the heterozygous p.Phe156Ser and the homozygous p.Arg109X mutations were functionally deleterious, whereas p.Ser67Thr was found as a rare allelic variant in association with p.Arg85His PROKR2 mutation in the same patient. CONCLUSIONS We report PROKR2 variants in congenital hypopituitarism with pituitary stalk interruption, suggesting a potential role of the prokineticin pathway in pituitary development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Reynaud
- Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie et Neurophysiologie de Marseille (CRN2M), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7286, Aix-Marseille University, France.
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41
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Zhao L, Zevallos SE, Rizzoti K, Jeong Y, Lovell-Badge R, Epstein DJ. Disruption of SoxB1-dependent Sonic hedgehog expression in the hypothalamus causes septo-optic dysplasia. Dev Cell 2012; 22:585-96. [PMID: 22421044 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2011.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2011] [Revised: 10/26/2011] [Accepted: 12/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) is a congenital brain anomaly that results in pituitary, optic nerve, and midline forebrain defects. The etiology of SOD is poorly understood, with the majority of cases being sporadic. In rare instances, SOD is caused by mutations in Sox2, Sox3, or Hesx1, but how this manifests in disease is not entirely certain. We demonstrate here that mouse embryos lacking Sonic hedgehog (Shh) in the prospective hypothalamus exhibit key features of SOD, including pituitary hypoplasia and absence of the optic disc. The hypothalamic source of Shh is required to maintain gene expression boundaries along the anteroposterior and mediolateral neural axes that are important for proper pituitary and eye development, respectively. We further reveal that Sox2 and Sox3 are dose-dependent regulators of Shh transcription that directly bind and activate a long-range Shh forebrain enhancer. These data indicate that reduced levels of Shh expression in the hypothalamus cause SOD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhao
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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42
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Perez-Castro C, Renner U, Haedo MR, Stalla GK, Arzt E. Cellular and molecular specificity of pituitary gland physiology. Physiol Rev 2012; 92:1-38. [PMID: 22298650 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00003.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The anterior pituitary gland has the ability to respond to complex signals derived from central and peripheral systems. Perception of these signals and their integration are mediated by cell interactions and cross-talk of multiple signaling transduction pathways and transcriptional regulatory networks that cooperate for hormone secretion, cell plasticity, and ultimately specific pituitary responses that are essential for an appropriate physiological response. We discuss the physiopathological and molecular mechanisms related to this integrative regulatory system of the anterior pituitary gland and how it contributes to modulate the gland functions and impacts on body homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Perez-Castro
- Laboratorio de Regulación de la Expresión Génica en el Crecimiento, Supervivencia y Diferenciación Celular,Departamento de Química Biológica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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43
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Su L, Sampaio AV, Jones KB, Pacheco M, Goytain A, Lin S, Poulin N, Yi L, Rossi FM, Kast J, Capecchi MR, Underhill TM, Nielsen TO. Deconstruction of the SS18-SSX fusion oncoprotein complex: insights into disease etiology and therapeutics. Cancer Cell 2012; 21:333-47. [PMID: 22439931 PMCID: PMC3734954 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2012.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Synovial sarcoma is a translocation-associated sarcoma where the underlying chromosomal event generates SS18-SSX fusion transcripts. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that the SS18-SSX fusion oncoprotein is both necessary and sufficient to support tumorigenesis; however, its mechanism of action remains poorly defined. We have purified a core SS18-SSX complex and discovered that SS18-SSX serves as a bridge between activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) and transducin-like enhancer of split 1 (TLE1), resulting in repression of ATF2 target genes. Disruption of these components by siRNA knockdown or treatment with HDAC inhibitors rescues target gene expression, leading to growth suppression and apoptosis. Together, these studies define a fundamental role for aberrant ATF2 transcriptional dysregulation in the etiology of synovial sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Su
- Biomedical Research Centre, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Arthur V. Sampaio
- Biomedical Research Centre, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Kevin B. Jones
- Department of Orthopaedics and Center for Children’s Cancer Research, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
- Department of Human Genetics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
| | - Marina Pacheco
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Angela Goytain
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Shujun Lin
- Biomedical Research Centre, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Neal Poulin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Lin Yi
- Biomedical Research Centre, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Fabio M. Rossi
- Biomedical Research Centre, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Juergen Kast
- Biomedical Research Centre, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Mario R. Capecchi
- Department of Human Genetics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
| | - T. Michael Underhill
- Biomedical Research Centre, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Torsten O. Nielsen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To discuss pituitary development and function related to those factors in which molecular defects resulting in combined pituitary hormone deficiency have been described in humans, and to describe recently reported novel mutations in these factors (January 2010 to September 2011). RECENT FINDINGS Novel mutations have been found in transcription factors involved in pituitary development, HESX1; LHX3; LHX4; SOX3; Prophet of Pit-1; and POU1FI, and in some of the signaling molecules expressed in the ventral diencephalon (fibroblast growth factor 8 and GLI2). There is phenotypic variability for the same mutation suggesting variable penetrance due to other genetic, epigenetic, or environmental factors. The incidence of mutations in these factors is low suggesting that other genes or environmental factors are responsible for the majority of cases of combined pituitary hormone deficiency. SUMMARY Development of the pituitary gland and pituitary cell determination and specification depend on the expression and interaction of signaling molecules and transcription factors in overlapping, but distinct, spatial and temporal patterns. Studying genotype-phenotype correlations in patients with mutations in these factors give insight into the mechanisms involved in normal pituitary development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie E Cohen
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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45
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Pekic S, Doknic M, Miljic D, Saveanu A, Reynaud R, Barlier A, Brue T, Popovic V. Case seminar: a young female with acute hyponatremia and a sellar mass. Endocrine 2011; 40:325-31. [PMID: 21863341 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-011-9516-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In familial cases of combined pituitary hormone deficiency the most common mutations are that of Prophet of Pit 1 (PROP1) gene. PROP1 mutations are associated with deficiencies of growth hormone, thyrotropin, prolactin, and gonadotropins (follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone), with evolving adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) deficiency in some cases. On imaging in most patients the pituitary gland is hypoplastic, but occasionally transient pituitary enlargement is found. We report a 22-year-old female initially diagnosed at age 12 with familial hypopituitarism due to PROP1 mutation, who presented with coma and respiratory arrest (acute hyponatremia). She was urgently treated in Intensive Care Unit of Emergency Center with hypertonic saline and stress doses of hydrocortisone, which resulted in the fast increase of plasma osmolality resulting in the osmotic demyelination syndrome. Simultaneously and incidentally on computed tomography scan a large sellar and suprasellar mass were reported as possible Rathke's cleft cyst or craniopharyngioma. Once the patient was stable, ACTH deficiency was documented. She remained replaced with hydrocortisone and subsequently underwent transphenoidal surgery. The removed sellar content revealed no pituitary adenoma or pituitary cells, but only an eosinophilic, colloid-like mass, and necrotic acellular debris. Her sister with hypopituitarism had an empty sella. Genetic testing in both sisters revealed the same homozygous c.150delA mutation in PROP1 gene. Here we report two sisters with the same PROP1 mutation who presented in adulthood with different pituitary morphology, one of them with a large sellar and suprasellar mass, in which transphenoidal surgery provided an extremely rare opportunity for a histopathological analysis of the sellar content. Due to the lack of endocrine care during the transition period hypocortisolism which evolved, a consequence of PROP1 mutation, was not recognized. Empirical use of hydrocortisone in the Intensive Care in our patient with life-threatening acute hyponatremia was appropriate but because glucocorticoid therapy on its own corrects hyponatremia even after stopping hypertonic saline infusion, the risk for over-correction of hyponatremia in ACTH deficiency is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Pekic
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Clinical Center Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
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46
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Andoniadou CL, Signore M, Young RM, Gaston-Massuet C, Wilson SW, Fuchs E, Martinez-Barbera JP. HESX1- and TCF3-mediated repression of Wnt/β-catenin targets is required for normal development of the anterior forebrain. Development 2011; 138:4931-42. [PMID: 22007134 DOI: 10.1242/dev.066597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays an essential role during regionalisation of the vertebrate neural plate and its inhibition in the most anterior neural ectoderm is required for normal forebrain development. Hesx1 is a conserved vertebrate-specific transcription factor that is required for forebrain development in Xenopus, mice and humans. Mouse embryos deficient for Hesx1 exhibit a variable degree of forebrain defects, but the molecular mechanisms underlying these defects are not fully understood. Here, we show that injection of a hesx1 morpholino into a 'sensitised' zygotic headless (tcf3) mutant background leads to severe forebrain and eye defects, suggesting an interaction between Hesx1 and the Wnt pathway during zebrafish forebrain development. Consistent with a requirement for Wnt signalling repression, we highlight a synergistic gene dosage-dependent interaction between Hesx1 and Tcf3, a transcriptional repressor of Wnt target genes, to maintain anterior forebrain identity during mouse embryogenesis. In addition, we reveal that Tcf3 is essential within the neural ectoderm to maintain anterior character and that its interaction with Hesx1 ensures the repression of Wnt targets in the developing forebrain. By employing a conditional loss-of-function approach in mouse, we demonstrate that deletion of β-catenin, and concomitant reduction of Wnt signalling in the developing anterior forebrain of Hesx1-deficient embryos, leads to a significant rescue of the forebrain defects. Finally, transcriptional profiling of anterior forebrain precursors from mouse embryos expressing eGFP from the Hesx1 locus provides molecular evidence supporting a novel function of Hesx1 in mediating repression of Wnt/β-catenin target activation in the developing forebrain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L Andoniadou
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
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47
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Abstract
Adequate functioning at all levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is necessary for normal gonadal development and subsequent sex steroid production. Deficiencies at any level of the axis can lead to a hypogonadal state. The causes of hypogonadism are heterogeneous and may involve any level of the reproductive system. This review discusses various causes of hypogonadism, describes the evaluation of hypogonadal states, and outlines treatment options for the induction of puberty in affected adolescents. Whereas some conditions are clearly delineated, the exact etiology and underlying pathogenesis of many disorders is unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhya Viswanathan
- Section of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University School of Medicine, Room 5960, 702 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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48
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Pearson CA, Ohyama K, Manning L, Aghamohammadzadeh S, Sang H, Placzek M. FGF-dependent midline-derived progenitor cells in hypothalamic infundibular development. Development 2011; 138:2613-24. [PMID: 21610037 DOI: 10.1242/dev.062794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The infundibulum links the nervous and endocrine systems, serving as a crucial integrating centre for body homeostasis. Here we describe that the chick infundibulum derives from two subsets of anterior ventral midline cells. One set remains at the ventral midline and forms the posterior-ventral infundibulum. A second set migrates laterally, forming a collar around the midline. We show that collar cells are composed of Fgf3(+) SOX3(+) proliferating progenitors, the induction of which is SHH dependent, but the maintenance of which requires FGF signalling. Collar cells proliferate late into embryogenesis, can generate neurospheres that passage extensively, and differentiate to distinct fates, including hypothalamic neuronal fates and Fgf10(+) anterior-dorsal infundibular cells. Together, our study shows that a subset of anterior floor plate-like cells gives rise to Fgf3(+) SOX3(+) progenitor cells, demonstrates a dual origin of infundibular cells and reveals a crucial role for FGF signalling in governing extended infundibular growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Alayne Pearson
- MRC Centre for Developmental and Biomedical Genetics and Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
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49
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Patterning and early cell lineage decisions in the developing kidney: the role of Pax genes. Pediatr Nephrol 2011; 26:1387-94. [PMID: 21221999 PMCID: PMC4129512 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-010-1749-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Revised: 12/07/2010] [Accepted: 12/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Specification of the intermediate mesoderm and the epithelial derivatives that will make the mammalian kidney depends on the concerted action of many transcription factors and signaling proteins. Among the earliest genes expressed in the nephric duct and surrounding mesenchyme is Pax2, whose function is essential for making and maintaining the epithelium. The Pax2 protein is subject to phosphorylation in response to signals that activate the c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathway, including Wnts and BMPs. In cell culture systems, Pax2 is know to recruit components of a histone H3 lysine 4 methyltransferase complex to specific DNA sites to alter the pattern of histone modifications and determine gene expression. This epigenetic function may underlie the ability of Pax2 and similar proteins to maintain cell lineages during development.
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50
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Mortensen AH, MacDonald JW, Ghosh D, Camper SA. Candidate genes for panhypopituitarism identified by gene expression profiling. Physiol Genomics 2011; 43:1105-16. [PMID: 21828248 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00080.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the transcription factors PROP1 and PIT1 (POU1F1) lead to pituitary hormone deficiency and hypopituitarism in mice and humans. The dysmorphology of developing Prop1 mutant pituitaries readily distinguishes them from those of Pit1 mutants and normal mice. This and other features suggest that Prop1 controls the expression of genes besides Pit1 that are important for pituitary cell migration, survival, and differentiation. To identify genes involved in these processes we used microarray analysis of gene expression to compare pituitary RNA from newborn Prop1 and Pit1 mutants and wild-type littermates. Significant differences in gene expression were noted between each mutant and their normal littermates, as well as between Prop1 and Pit1 mutants. Otx2, a gene critical for normal eye and pituitary development in humans and mice, exhibited elevated expression specifically in Prop1 mutant pituitaries. We report the spatial and temporal regulation of Otx2 in normal mice and Prop1 mutants, and the results suggest Otx2 could influence pituitary development by affecting signaling from the ventral diencephalon and regulation of gene expression in Rathke's pouch. The discovery that Otx2 expression is affected by Prop1 deficiency provides support for our hypothesis that identifying molecular differences in mutants will contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms that control pituitary organogenesis and lead to human pituitary disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda H Mortensen
- Department of Human Genetics, Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5618, USA
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