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Xu D, Yan S, Jin H, Chen C, Tang X, Wang X, Li Y, Fei F, Yang A. Integration of RRBS and RNA-seq unravels the regulatory role of DNMT3A in porcine Sertoli cell proliferation. Front Genet 2024; 14:1302351. [PMID: 38264208 PMCID: PMC10803568 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1302351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
DNMT3A participates in de novo methylation, yet its impact on the proliferation of testicular Sertoli cells remains unclear. Development-specific methylation has been proven to be associated with cellular development. Therefore, in this study, we simulated DNMT3A expression pattern during testicular development by DNMT3A interference. Then, RRBS and RNA-seq were used to decipher DNMT3A regulatory mechanisms on Sertoli cell proliferation. Immunofluorescence staining revealed the expression of DNMT3A in the Sertoli cells of the prepubertal testis. DNMT3A was demonstrated to inhibit the cell cycle and proliferation of Sertoli cells, while promoting cell apoptosis. After transfected with DNMT3A interference, a total of 560 DEGs and 2,091 DMGs produced by DNMT3A interference were identified between two treated groups, respectively. Integrating the results from RRBS and RNA-seq, the overlapping genes between DMGs and DEGs were found to be enriched in the Gene Ontology (GO) terms related to cellular development and the Apelin signaling pathway. The present study demonstrated the impact of DNMT3A on the proliferation of porcine testicular Sertoli cells, suggesting that DNMT3A primarily acts through the Apelin signaling pathway. These findings provide valuable insights into how DNMT3A influences testicular development and health, offering new perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Xu
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Yueyang Vocational Technical College, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Saina Yan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Huimin Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Chujie Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiangwei Tang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xu Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yonghong Li
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Yueyang Vocational Technical College, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Fang Fei
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Yueyang Vocational Technical College, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Anqi Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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2
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Abstract
Epigenetics has transformed our understanding of the molecular basis of complex diseases, including cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on epigenetic processes implicated in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, highlighting the potential of DNA methylation as a precision medicine biomarker and examining the impact of social determinants of health, gut bacterial epigenomics, noncoding RNA, and epitranscriptomics on disease development and progression. We discuss challenges and barriers to advancing cardiometabolic epigenetics research, along with the opportunities for novel preventive strategies, targeted therapies, and personalized medicine approaches that may arise from a better understanding of epigenetic processes. Emerging technologies, such as single-cell sequencing and epigenetic editing, hold the potential to further enhance our ability to dissect the complex interplay between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. To translate research findings into clinical practice, interdisciplinary collaborations, technical and ethical considerations, and accessibility of resources and knowledge are crucial. Ultimately, the field of epigenetics has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, paving the way for precision medicine and personalized health care, and improving the lives of millions of individuals worldwide affected by these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea A Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, New York (A.A.B.)
| | - José Ordovás
- Jean Mayer US Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, at Tufts University, Boston, MA (J.O.)
- IMDEA Food Institute, CEI UAM + CSIC, Madrid, Spain (J.O.)
- Consortium CIBERObn, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain (J.O.)
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3
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Liu B, Wen H, Yang J, Li X, Li G, Zhang J, Wu S, Butts IAE, He F. Hypoxia Affects HIF-1/LDH-A Signaling Pathway by Methylation Modification and Transcriptional Regulation in Japanese Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11081233. [PMID: 36009861 PMCID: PMC9405012 DOI: 10.3390/biology11081233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary With global climate change and increased aquaculture production, fishes in natural waters or aquaculture systems are easily subjected to hypoxic stress. However, our understanding about their responsive mechanisms to hypoxia is still limited. Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) is a widely cultivated marine economical flatfish, whose hypoxic responsive mechanisms are not fully researched. In this study, responses to hypoxia were investigated at blood physiological, biochemical, hormonal, and molecular levels. Responsive mechanisms of the HIF-1/LDH-A signaling pathway in epigenetic modification and transcriptional regulation were also researched. These results are important for enriching the theory of environmental responsive mechanisms and guiding aquaculture. Abstract Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) responsive mechanisms to hypoxia are still not fully understood. Therefore, we performed an acute hypoxic treatment (dissolved oxygen at 2.07 ± 0.08 mg/L) on Japanese flounder. It was confirmed that the hypoxic stress affected the physiological phenotype through changes in blood physiology (RBC, HGB, WBC), biochemistry (LDH, ALP, ALT, GLU, TC, TG, ALB), and hormone (cortisol) indicators. Hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), an essential oxygen homeostasis mediator in organisms consisting of an inducible HIF-1α and a constitutive HIF-1β, and its target gene LDH-A were deeply studied. Results showed that HIF-1α and LDH-A genes were co-expressed and significantly affected by hypoxic stress. The dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that transcription factor HIF-1 transcriptionally regulated the LDH-A gene, and its transcription binding sequence was GGACGTGA located at −2343~−2336. The DNA methylation status of HIF-1α and LDH-A genes were detected to understand the mechanism of environmental stress on genes. It was found that hypoxia affected the HIF-1α gene and LDH-A gene methylation levels. The study uncovered HIF-1/LDH-A signaling pathway responsive mechanisms of Japanese flounder to hypoxia in epigenetic modification and transcriptional regulation. Our study is significant to further the understanding of environmental responsive mechanisms as well as providing a reference for aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binghua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Haishen Wen
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Guangling Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Jingru Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Shuxian Wu
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Ian AE Butts
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Feng He
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China
- Correspondence:
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4
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Parveen N, Dhawan S. DNA Methylation Patterning and the Regulation of Beta Cell Homeostasis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:651258. [PMID: 34025578 PMCID: PMC8137853 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.651258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic beta cells play a central role in regulating glucose homeostasis by secreting the hormone insulin. Failure of beta cells due to reduced function and mass and the resulting insulin insufficiency can drive the dysregulation of glycemic control, causing diabetes. Epigenetic regulation by DNA methylation is central to shaping the gene expression patterns that define the fully functional beta cell phenotype and regulate beta cell growth. Establishment of stage-specific DNA methylation guides beta cell differentiation during fetal development, while faithful restoration of these signatures during DNA replication ensures the maintenance of beta cell identity and function in postnatal life. Lineage-specific transcription factor networks interact with methylated DNA at specific genomic regions to enhance the regulatory specificity and ensure the stability of gene expression patterns. Recent genome-wide DNA methylation profiling studies comparing islets from diabetic and non-diabetic human subjects demonstrate the perturbation of beta cell DNA methylation patterns, corresponding to the dysregulation of gene expression associated with mature beta cell state in diabetes. This article will discuss the molecular underpinnings of shaping the islet DNA methylation landscape, its mechanistic role in the specification and maintenance of the functional beta cell phenotype, and its dysregulation in diabetes. We will also review recent advances in utilizing beta cell specific DNA methylation patterns for the development of biomarkers for diabetes, and targeting DNA methylation to develop translational approaches for supplementing the functional beta cell mass deficit in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sangeeta Dhawan
- Department of Translational Research and Cellular Therapeutics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, United States
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Zhang Z, Ursin R, Mahapatra S, Gallicano GI. CRISPR/CAS9 ablation of individual miRNAs from a miRNA family reveals their individual efficacies for regulating cardiac differentiation. Mech Dev 2018; 150:10-20. [PMID: 29427756 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although it is well understood that genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, and epigenetic miscues can cause congenital birth defects, many defects are still labeled idiopathic, meaning their origin is not yet understood. microRNAs are quickly entering the causal fray of developmental defects. miRNAs use a 7-8 base-pair seed sequence to target a corresponding sequence on one or multiple mRNAs resulting in rapid down-regulation of translation. miRNAs can also control protein 'amounts' in cells. As a result if miRNAs are over or under expressed during development protein homeostasis can be compromised resulting in defects in the development of organ systems. Here, we show that during differentiation of embryonic stem cells, individual miRNAs that reside in the miRNA17 family (composed of 14 miRNAs) do not share the same function even though they have the same seed sequence. The advent of CRISPR/CAS9 technology has not only yielded a true observation of individual miRNA function, it has also reconnected advanced molecular biology approaches to classical cell biology approaches such as gene rescue. We show that miRNA106a and to a lesser extent miR17 and 93 target the cardiac suppressor gene Fog2, which specifically suppress Gata-4 and Coup-TF2. However, when each miRNA is knocked out, we find that their targeting efficacies for Fog2 differ resulting in varying degrees of cardiac differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyao Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057-145, United States
| | - Rebecca Ursin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057-145, United States
| | - Samiksha Mahapatra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057-145, United States
| | - G Ian Gallicano
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057-145, United States.
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6
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Hogg K, Western PS. Refurbishing the germline epigenome: Out with the old, in with the new. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 45:104-13. [PMID: 26597001 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian germline reprogramming involves the erasure and re-establishment of epigenetic information critical for germ cell function and inheritance in offspring. The bi-faceted nature of such reprogramming ensures germline repression of somatic programmes and the establishment of a carefully constructed epigenome essential for fertilisation and embryonic development in the next generation. While the majority of the germline epigenome is erased in preparation for embryonic development, certain genomic sequences remain resistant to this and may represent routes for transmission of epigenetic changes through the germline. Epigenetic reprogramming is regulated by highly conserved epigenetic modifiers, which function to establish, maintain and remove DNA methylation and chromatin modifications. In this review, we discuss recent findings from a considerable body of work illustrating the critical requirement of epigenetic modifiers that influence the epigenetic signature present in mature gametes, and have the potential to affect developmental outcomes in the offspring. We also briefly discuss the similarities of these mechanisms in the human germline and consider the potential for inheritance of epigenetically induced germline genetic errors that could impact on offspring phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Hogg
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Patrick S Western
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia.
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7
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Cheong CY, Chng K, Ng S, Chew SB, Chan L, Ferguson-Smith AC. Germline and somatic imprinting in the nonhuman primate highlights species differences in oocyte methylation. Genome Res 2015; 25:611-23. [PMID: 25862382 PMCID: PMC4417110 DOI: 10.1101/gr.183301.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic mechanism resulting in parental allele-specific gene expression. Defects in normal imprinting are found in cancer, assisted reproductive technologies, and several human syndromes. In mouse models, germline-derived DNA methylation is shown to regulate imprinting. Though imprinting is largely conserved between mammals, species- and tissue-specific domains of imprinted expression exist. Using the cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis) to assess primate-specific imprinting, we present a comprehensive view of tissue-specific imprinted expression and DNA methylation at established imprinted gene clusters. For example, like mouse and unlike human, macaque IGF2R is consistently imprinted, and the PLAGL1, INPP5F transcript variant 2, and PEG3 imprinting control regions are not methylated in the macaque germline but acquire this post-fertilization. Methylome data from human early embryos appear to support this finding. These suggest fundamental differences in imprinting control mechanisms between primate species and rodents at some imprinted domains, with implications for our understanding of the epigenetic programming process in humans and its influence on disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Y Cheong
- Growth, Development and Metabolism Program, Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore 117609
| | - Keefe Chng
- Growth, Development and Metabolism Program, Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore 117609
| | - Shilen Ng
- Growth, Development and Metabolism Program, Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore 117609
| | - Siew Boom Chew
- Growth, Development and Metabolism Program, Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore 117609
| | - Louiza Chan
- Growth, Development and Metabolism Program, Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore 117609
| | - Anne C Ferguson-Smith
- Growth, Development and Metabolism Program, Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore 117609; Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, United Kingdom
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8
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Abstract
DNA methylation is one of the best characterized epigenetic modifications. In mammals it is involved in various biological processes including the silencing of transposable elements, regulation of gene expression, genomic imprinting, and X-chromosome inactivation. This article describes how DNA methylation serves as a cellular memory system and how it is dynamically regulated through the action of the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) and ten eleven translocation (TET) enzymes. Its role in the regulation of gene expression, through its interplay with histone modifications, is also described, and its implication in human diseases discussed. The exciting areas of investigation that will likely become the focus of research in the coming years are outlined in the summary.
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Affiliation(s)
- En Li
- China Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 201203, China
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9
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Song N, Endo D, Koji T. Roles of epigenome in mammalian spermatogenesis. Reprod Med Biol 2013; 13:59-69. [PMID: 29699150 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-013-0167-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a successive process consisting of spermatogonial proliferation, spermatocytic meiosis, and spermiogenesis, representing the maturation of haploid spermatids. During the process, 25-75 % of the expected sperm yield is thought to be lost through apoptosis. In addition, spermatogenesis is considered to be a process undergoing successive heterochromatinization, finally reaching a complete condensed form in the sperm head. Thus, cell proliferation, differentiation and death may be strictly regulated by epigenetic factors in this process. This review describes the current understanding of the role of epigenome in spermatogenesis, especially focusing on the following aspects; DNA methylation, modification of histones, and small RNA function. These epigenetic factors affect each other and play a central role in events essential for spermatogenesis, fertilization and embryogenesis, through the regulation of gene expression, transposon activities, meiotic sex chromosome inactivation, histone remodeling and genome imprinting. Finally, a brief discussion of future avenues of study is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Song
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences 1-12-4 Sakamoto 852-8523 Nagasaki Japan
| | - Daisuke Endo
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences 1-12-4 Sakamoto 852-8523 Nagasaki Japan
| | - Takehiko Koji
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences 1-12-4 Sakamoto 852-8523 Nagasaki Japan
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10
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Ohhata T, Wutz A. Reactivation of the inactive X chromosome in development and reprogramming. Cell Mol Life Sci 2012; 70:2443-61. [PMID: 23052214 PMCID: PMC3689915 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1174-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Revised: 08/26/2012] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, one of the two X chromosomes of female cells is inactivated for dosage compensation between the sexes. X chromosome inactivation is initiated in early embryos by the noncoding Xist RNA. Subsequent chromatin modifications on the inactive X chromosome (Xi) lead to a remarkable stability of gene repression in somatic cell lineages. In mice, reactivation of genes on the Xi accompanies the establishment of pluripotent cells of the female blastocyst and the development of primordial germ cells. Xi reactivation also occurs when pluripotency is established during the reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells. The mechanism of Xi reactivation has attracted increasing interest for studying changes in epigenetic patterns and for improving methods of cell reprogramming. Here, we review recent advances in the understanding of Xi reactivation during development and reprogramming and illustrate potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Ohhata
- Wellcome Trust and MRC Stem Cell Institute, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR UK
- Present Address: Department of Molecular Biology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, 431-3192 Japan
| | - Anton Wutz
- Wellcome Trust and MRC Stem Cell Institute, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR UK
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11
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Jenkins TG, Carrell DT. Dynamic alterations in the paternal epigenetic landscape following fertilization. Front Genet 2012; 3:143. [PMID: 23024648 PMCID: PMC3442791 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2012.00143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Accepted: 07/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic development is a complex and dynamic process with frequent changes in gene expression, ultimately leading to cellular differentiation and commitment of various cell lines. These changes are likely preceded by changes to signaling cascades and/or alterations to the epigenetic program in specific cells. The process of epigenetic remodeling begins early in development. In fact, soon after the union of sperm and egg massive epigenetic changes occur across the paternal and maternal epigenetic landscape. The epigenome of these cells includes modifications to the DNA itself, in the form of DNA methylation, as well as nuclear protein content and modification, such as modifications to histones. Sperm chromatin is predominantly packaged by protamines, but following fertilization the sperm pronucleus undergoes remodeling in which maternally derived histones replace protamines, resulting in the relaxation of chromatin and ultimately decondensation of the paternal pronucleus. In addition, active DNA demethylation occurs across the paternal genome prior to the first cell division, effectively erasing many spermatogenesis derived methylation marks. This complex interplay begins the dynamic process by which two haploid cells unite to form a diploid organism. The biology of these events is central to the understanding of sexual reproduction, yet our knowledge regarding the mechanisms involved is extremely limited. This review will explore what is known regarding the post-fertilization epigenetic alterations of the paternal chromatin and the implications suggested by the available literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy G Jenkins
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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12
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Liao HF, Tai KY, Chen WSC, Cheng LCW, Ho HN, Lin SP. Functions of DNA methyltransferase 3-like in germ cells and beyond. Biol Cell 2012; 104:571-87. [PMID: 22671959 DOI: 10.1111/boc.201100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
DNA methyltransferase 3-like (DNMT3L) is one of the key players in de novo DNA methylation of imprinting control elements and retrotransposons, which occurs after genome-wide epigenetic erasure during germ cell development. In this review, we summarise the biochemical properties of DNMT3L and discuss the possible mechanisms behind DNMT3L-mediated imprinting establishment and retrotransposon silencing in germ cells. We also discuss possible connections between DNMT3L and non-coding RNA-mediated epigenetic remodelling, the roles of DNMT3L in germ cell development and the implications in stem cell and cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Fu Liao
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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13
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Payer B, Lee JT, Namekawa SH. X-inactivation and X-reactivation: epigenetic hallmarks of mammalian reproduction and pluripotent stem cells. Hum Genet 2011; 130:265-80. [PMID: 21667284 PMCID: PMC3744832 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-011-1024-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
X-chromosome inactivation is an epigenetic hallmark of mammalian development. Chromosome-wide regulation of the X-chromosome is essential in embryonic and germ cell development. In the male germline, the X-chromosome goes through meiotic sex chromosome inactivation, and the chromosome-wide silencing is maintained from meiosis into spermatids before the transmission to female embryos. In early female mouse embryos, X-inactivation is imprinted to occur on the paternal X-chromosome, representing the epigenetic programs acquired in both parental germlines. Recent advances revealed that the inactive X-chromosome in both females and males can be dissected into two elements: repeat elements versus unique coding genes. The inactive paternal X in female preimplantation embryos is reactivated in the inner cell mass of blastocysts in order to subsequently allow the random form of X-inactivation in the female embryo, by which both Xs have an equal chance of being inactivated. X-chromosome reactivation is regulated by pluripotency factors and also occurs in early female germ cells and in pluripotent stem cells, where X-reactivation is a stringent marker of naive ground state pluripotency. Here we summarize recent progress in the study of X-inactivation and X-reactivation during mammalian reproduction and development as well as in pluripotent stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Payer
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA. Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeannie T. Lee
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA. Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Satoshi H. Namekawa
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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14
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Jenkins TG, Carrell DT. The paternal epigenome and embryogenesis: poising mechanisms for development. Asian J Androl 2010; 13:76-80. [PMID: 20972451 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The scope of paternal contributions during early embryonic development has long been considered limited. Dramatic changes in chromatin structure throughout spermatogenesis have been thought to leave the sperm void of complex layers of epigenetic regulation over the DNA blueprint, thus leaving the balance of that regulation to the oocyte. However, recent work in the fields of epigenetics and male factor infertility has placed this long-held, and now controversial dogma, in a new light. Elegant studies investigating chromatin and epigenetic modifications in the developing sperm cell have provided new insights that may establish a more critical role for the paternal epigenome in the developing embryo. DNA methylation, histone tail modifications, targeted histone retention and protamine incorporation into the chromatin have great influence in the developing sperm cell. Perturbations in the establishment and/or maintenance of any of these epigenetic marks have been demonstrated to affect fertility status, ranging in severity from mild to catastrophic. Sperm require this myriad of chromatin structural changes not only to serve a protective role to DNA throughout spermatogenesis and future delivery to the egg, but also, it appears, to contribute to the developmental program of the future embryo. This review will focus on our current understanding of the epigenetics of sperm. We will discuss sperm-specific chromatin modifications that result in genes essential to development being poised for activation early in embryonic development, the disruption of which may result in reduced fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy G Jenkins
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.
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15
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Abstract
The development of genetic sex determination and cytologically distinct sex chromosomes leads to the potential problem of gene dosage imbalances between autosomes and sex chromosomes and also between males and females. To circumvent these imbalances, mammals have developed an elaborate system of dosage compensation that includes both upregulation and repression of the X chromosome. Recent advances have provided insights into the evolutionary history of how both the imprinted and random forms of X chromosome inactivation have come about. Furthermore, our understanding of the epigenetic switch at the X-inactivation center and the molecular aspects of chromosome-wide silencing has greatly improved recently. Here, we review various facets of the ever-expanding field of mammalian dosage compensation and discuss its evolutionary, developmental, and mechanistic components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Payer
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.
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16
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Chiba H, Hirasawa R, Kaneda M, Amakawa Y, Li E, Sado T, Sasaki H. De novoDNA methylation independent establishment of maternal imprint on X chromosome in mouse oocytes. Genesis 2008; 46:768-74. [DOI: 10.1002/dvg.20438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Takizawa T, Meshorer E. Chromatin and nuclear architecture in the nervous system. Trends Neurosci 2008; 31:343-52. [PMID: 18538423 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2008.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2007] [Revised: 03/28/2008] [Accepted: 03/28/2008] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurons are arguably the most varied cell type both morphologically and functionally. Their fate during differentiation and development and the activity of mature neurons are significantly determined and regulated by chromatin. The nucleus is compartmentalized and the arrangement of these compartments, termed the nuclear architecture, distinguishes one cell type from another and dictates many nuclear processes. Nuclear architecture determines the arrangement of chromosomes, the positioning of genes within chromosomes, the distribution of nuclear bodies and the interplay between these different factors. Importantly, chromatin regulation has been shown to be the basis for a variety of central nervous system processes including grooming and nursing, depression and stress, and drug abuse, among others. Here we review the regulation and function of nuclear architecture and chromatin structure in the context of the nervous system and discuss the potential use of histone deacetylase inhibitors as chromatin-directed therapy for nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Takizawa
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Epigenetic events in mammalian germ-cell development: reprogramming and beyond. Nat Rev Genet 2008; 9:129-40. [PMID: 18197165 DOI: 10.1038/nrg2295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 600] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The epigenetic profile of germ cells, which is defined by modifications of DNA and chromatin, changes dynamically during their development. Many of the changes are associated with the acquisition of the capacity to support post-fertilization development. Our knowledge of this aspect has greatly increased- for example, insights into how the re-establishment of parental imprints is regulated. In addition, an emerging theme from recent studies is that epigenetic modifiers have key roles in germ-cell development itself--for example, epigenetics contributes to the gene-expression programme that is required for germ-cell development, regulation of meiosis and genomic integrity. Understanding epigenetic regulation in germ cells has implications for reproductive engineering technologies and human health.
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Arima T, Hata K, Tanaka S, Kusumi M, Li E, Kato K, Shiota K, Sasaki H, Wake N. Loss of the maternal imprint in Dnmt3Lmat-/- mice leads to a differentiation defect in the extraembryonic tissue. Dev Biol 2006; 297:361-73. [PMID: 16920095 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2006.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2005] [Revised: 05/01/2006] [Accepted: 05/03/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation of the genome is essential for mammalian development and plays crucial roles in a variety of biological processes including genomic imprinting. Although the DNA methyltransferase 3-like (Dnmt3L) protein lacks DNA methylase activity, it is thought to establish the maternal imprint in combination with the functional DNA methyltransferases. Oogenesis apparently proceeds normally in female mice homozygous for a targeted deletion of Dnmt3L, but their heterozygous offspring (Dnmt3L(mat-/-)) die before midgestation due to an imprinting defect. In this study, we show that Dnmt3L is required for the establishment of maternal methylation imprints both in the embryos and the placentae and that the placentae of these embryos develop abnormally. There is a defect in the formation of the labyrinth, reduced formation of the spongiotrophoblast layer, excess trophoblast giant cells and insufficient attachment between the chorion layer and the ectoplacental cone. In addition, we demonstrate arrest of proliferation of the extraembryonic tissue without apoptosis in vivo and a disturbance of the cell fate of Dnmt3L(mat-/-) trophoblastic stem cells in vitro. Furthermore, we report that DNA methylation during oogenesis is essential for the establishment of imprinting Mash2. These findings provide evidence that not only is DNA methylation required for the appropriate maternal imprint in the placenta but that the appropriate imprint is absolutely required for vertebrate placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Arima
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Division of Molecular and Cell Therapeutics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyusyu University, Beppu, Oita 874-0838, Japan.
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Okamoto I, Heard E. The dynamics of imprinted X inactivation during preimplantation development in mice. Cytogenet Genome Res 2006; 113:318-24. [PMID: 16575196 DOI: 10.1159/000090848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2005] [Accepted: 10/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mouse, there are two forms of X chromosome inactivation (XCI), random XCI in the fetus and imprinted paternal XCI, which is limited to the extraembryonic tissues. While the mechanism of random XCI has been studied extensively using the in vitro XX ES cell differentiation system, imprinted XCI during early embryonic development has been less well characterized. Recent studies of early embryos have reported unexpected findings for the paternal X chromosome (Xp). Imprinted XCI may not be linked to meiotic silencing in the male germ line but rather to the imprinted status of the Xist gene. Furthermore, the Xp becomes inactivated in all cells of cleavage-stage embryos and then reactivated in the cells of the inner cell mass (ICM) that form the epiblast, where random XCI ensues.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Okamoto
- CNRS UMR218, Curie Institute, Paris, France.
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Sado T, Ferguson-Smith AC. Imprinted X inactivation and reprogramming in the preimplantation mouse embryo. Hum Mol Genet 2005; 14 Spec No 1:R59-64. [PMID: 15809274 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddi117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
X chromosome inactivation is a developmentally regulated process that causes one of the two X chromosomes in normal female mammals to become transcriptionally silenced, thus equalizing the expression of X-linked genes between the sexes. Such dosage compensation depends upon dynamic genetic and epigenetic events occurring very early in development. X inactivation is controlled by an X inactivation centre that is associated with the expression of non-coding RNAs required for the silencing. Also associated with the inactive X are repressive histone modifications and polycomb protein-mediated states, which are progressively acquired during the inactivation process. In mouse, two forms of X inactivation have been described. Random X inactivation happens in the derivatives of the inner cell mass (ICM) giving rise to embryos where the maternally inherited X(Xm) is inactive in some cells and the paternally derived X (Xp) is inactive in others. Random X inactivation occurs around the time of implantation. Imprinted X inactivation, the preferential inactivation of the Xp chromosome, occurs earlier and, although there has been some debate as to the precise timing of initiation of this event, is apparent in all cells early in preimplantation development, then is subsequently confined to the cells of the extraembryonic lineages. A picture is emerging whereby initial epigenetic asymmetry between the two parental X chromosomes is reprogrammed in a lineage specific manner resulting in a switch from imprinted to random inactivation in embryonic derivatives. Neither the underlying reason nor the full extent of these early lineage specific epigenetic changes is known, but they may be correlated with more genome-wide reprogramming events essential for normal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Sado
- Division of Human Genetics, National Institute of Genetics, Research Organization of Information Systems, Mishima, Japan
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