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Chen C, Zeng J, Lu J. Critical role of epigenetic modification in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2023; 89:700-709. [PMID: 37067130 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_298_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterised by recurrent eczema-like lesions and severe pruritus, along with drying and decrustation of skin. Current research relates the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis mainly to genetic susceptibility, abnormal skin barrier function, immune disorders, Staphylococcus aureus colonisation, microbiological dysfunction and vitamin D insufficiency. Epigenetic modifications are distinct genetic phenotypes resulting from environment-driven changes in chromosome functions in the absence of nuclear DNA sequence variation. Classic epigenetic events include DNA methylation, histone protein modifications and non-coding RNA regulation. Increasing evidence has indicated that epigenetic events are involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis by their effects on multiple signalling pathways which in turn influence the above factors. This review primarily analyses the function of epigenetic regulation in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. In addition, it tries to make recommendations for personalised epigenetic treatment strategies for atopic dermatitis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunli Chen
- Department of Dermatology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jinrong Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jianyun Lu
- Department of Dermatology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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2
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Bratu D, Boda D, Caruntu C. Genomic, Epigenomic, Transcriptomic, Proteomic and Metabolomic Approaches in Atopic Dermatitis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:5215-5231. [PMID: 37367080 PMCID: PMC10297041 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45060331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a high prevalence in the developed countries. It is associated with atopic and non-atopic diseases, and its close correlation with atopic comorbidities has been genetically demonstrated. One of the main roles of genetic studies is to comprehend the defects of the cutaneous barrier due to filaggrin deficit and epidermal spongiosis. Recently, epigenetic studies started to analyze the influence of the environmental factors on gene expression. The epigenome is considered to be a superior second code that controls the genome, which includes alterations of the chromatin. The epigenetic changes do not alter the genetic code, however, changes in the chromatin structure could activate or inhibit the transcription process of certain genes and consequently, the translation process of the new mRNA into a polypeptide chain. In-depth analysis of the transcriptomic, metabolomic and proteomic studies allow to unravel detailed mechanisms that cause AD. The extracellular space and lipid metabolism are associated with AD that is independent of the filaggrin expression. On the other hand, around 45 proteins are considered as the principal components in the atopic skin. Moreover, genetic studies based on the disrupted cutaneous barrier can lead to the development of new treatments targeting the cutaneous barrier or cutaneous inflammation. Unfortunately, at present, there are no target therapies that focus on the epigenetic process of AD. However, in the future, miR-143 could be an important objective for new therapies, as it targets the miR-335:SOX axis, thereby restoring the miR-335 expression, and repairing the cutaneous barrier defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Bratu
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Colentina’ Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Daniel Boda
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Ponderas’ Academic Hospital, 014142 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, “Prof. N.C. Paulescu” National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Dermatology, “Prof. N.C. Paulescu” National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Physiology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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3
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Stikker BS, Hendriks RW, Stadhouders R. Decoding the genetic and epigenetic basis of asthma. Allergy 2023; 78:940-956. [PMID: 36727912 DOI: 10.1111/all.15666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is a complex and heterogeneous chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Alongside environmental factors, asthma susceptibility is strongly influenced by genetics. Given its high prevalence and our incomplete understanding of the mechanisms underlying disease susceptibility, asthma is frequently studied in genome-wide association studies (GWAS), which have identified thousands of genetic variants associated with asthma development. Virtually all these genetic variants reside in non-coding genomic regions, which has obscured the functional impact of asthma-associated variants and their translation into disease-relevant mechanisms. Recent advances in genomics technology and epigenetics now offer methods to link genetic variants to gene regulatory elements embedded within non-coding regions, which have started to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying the complex (epi)genetics of asthma. Here, we provide an integrated overview of (epi)genetic variants associated with asthma, focusing on efforts to link these disease associations to biological insight into asthma pathophysiology using state-of-the-art genomics methodology. Finally, we provide a perspective as to how decoding the genetic and epigenetic basis of asthma has the potential to transform clinical management of asthma and to predict the risk of asthma development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard S Stikker
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rudi W Hendriks
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ralph Stadhouders
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Recto KA, Huan T, Lee DH, Lee GY, Gereige J, Yao C, Hwang SJ, Joehanes R, Kelly RS, Lasky-Su J, O’Connor G, Levy D. Transcriptome-wide association study of circulating IgE levels identifies novel targets for asthma and allergic diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1080071. [PMID: 36793728 PMCID: PMC9922991 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1080071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Measurement of circulating immunoglobulin E (IgE) concentration is helpful for diagnosing and treating asthma and allergic diseases. Identifying gene expression signatures associated with IgE might elucidate novel pathways for IgE regulation. To this end, we performed a discovery transcriptome-wide association study to identify differentially expressed genes associated with circulating IgE levels in whole-blood derived RNA from 5,345 participants in the Framingham Heart Study across 17,873 mRNA gene-level transcripts. We identified 216 significant transcripts at a false discovery rate <0.05. We conducted replication using the meta-analysis of two independent external studies: the Childhood Asthma Management Program (n=610) and the Genetic Epidemiology of Asthma in Costa Rica Study (n=326); we then reversed the discovery and replication cohorts, which revealed 59 significant genes that replicated in both directions. Gene ontology analysis revealed that many of these genes were implicated in immune function pathways, including defense response, inflammatory response, and cytokine production. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis revealed four genes (CLC, CCDC21, S100A13, and GCNT1) as putatively causal (p<0.05) regulators of IgE levels. GCNT1 (beta=1.5, p=0.01)-which is a top result in the MR analysis of expression in relation to asthma and allergic diseases-plays a role in regulating T helper type 1 cell homing, lymphocyte trafficking, and B cell differentiation. Our findings build upon prior knowledge of IgE regulation and provide a deeper understanding of underlying molecular mechanisms. The IgE-associated genes that we identified-particularly those implicated in MR analysis-can be explored as promising therapeutic targets for asthma and IgE-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A. Recto
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Tianxiao Huan
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Dong Heon Lee
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Gha Young Lee
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Jessica Gereige
- Pulmonary Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chen Yao
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Shih-Jen Hwang
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Roby Joehanes
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Rachel S. Kelly
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Channing Division of Network Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jessica Lasky-Su
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Channing Division of Network Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - George O’Connor
- Pulmonary Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Daniel Levy
- The Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
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Galasso M, Dalla Pozza E, Chignola R, Gambino S, Cavallini C, Quaglia FM, Lovato O, Dando I, Malpeli G, Krampera M, Donadelli M, Romanelli MG, Scupoli MT. The rs1001179 SNP and CpG methylation regulate catalase expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:521. [PMID: 36112236 PMCID: PMC9481481 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04540-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is an incurable disease characterized by an extremely variable clinical course. We have recently shown that high catalase (CAT) expression identifies patients with an aggressive clinical course. Elucidating mechanisms regulating CAT expression in CLL is preeminent to understand disease mechanisms and develop strategies for improving its clinical management. In this study, we investigated the role of the CAT promoter rs1001179 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and of the CpG Island II methylation encompassing this SNP in the regulation of CAT expression in CLL. Leukemic cells harboring the rs1001179 SNP T allele exhibited a significantly higher CAT expression compared with cells bearing the CC genotype. CAT promoter harboring the T -but not C- allele was accessible to ETS-1 and GR-β transcription factors. Moreover, CLL cells exhibited lower methylation levels than normal B cells, in line with the higher CAT mRNA and protein expressed by CLL in comparison with normal B cells. Methylation levels at specific CpG sites negatively correlated with CAT levels in CLL cells. Inhibition of methyltransferase activity induced a significant increase in CAT levels, thus functionally validating the role of CpG methylation in regulating CAT expression in CLL. Finally, the CT/TT genotypes were associated with lower methylation and higher CAT levels, suggesting that the rs1001179 T allele and CpG methylation may interact in regulating CAT expression in CLL. This study identifies genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying differential expression of CAT, which could be of crucial relevance for the development of therapies targeting redox regulatory pathways in CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Galasso
- Biology and Genetics Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
- Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Dalla Pozza
- Biology and Genetics Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Roberto Chignola
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Simona Gambino
- Biology and Genetics Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Cavallini
- Research Center LURM, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Maria Quaglia
- Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Ornella Lovato
- Research Center LURM, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Dando
- Biology and Genetics Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Malpeli
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics, and Gynecology, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Mauro Krampera
- Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Donadelli
- Biology and Genetics Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria G Romanelli
- Biology and Genetics Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
| | - Maria T Scupoli
- Biology and Genetics Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
- Research Center LURM, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P. L.A. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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Alsheikh AJ, Wollenhaupt S, King EA, Reeb J, Ghosh S, Stolzenburg LR, Tamim S, Lazar J, Davis JW, Jacob HJ. The landscape of GWAS validation; systematic review identifying 309 validated non-coding variants across 130 human diseases. BMC Med Genomics 2022; 15:74. [PMID: 35365203 PMCID: PMC8973751 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-022-01216-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The remarkable growth of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has created a critical need to experimentally validate the disease-associated variants, 90% of which involve non-coding variants. Methods To determine how the field is addressing this urgent need, we performed a comprehensive literature review identifying 36,676 articles. These were reduced to 1454 articles through a set of filters using natural language processing and ontology-based text-mining. This was followed by manual curation and cross-referencing against the GWAS catalog, yielding a final set of 286 articles. Results We identified 309 experimentally validated non-coding GWAS variants, regulating 252 genes across 130 human disease traits. These variants covered a variety of regulatory mechanisms. Interestingly, 70% (215/309) acted through cis-regulatory elements, with the remaining through promoters (22%, 70/309) or non-coding RNAs (8%, 24/309). Several validation approaches were utilized in these studies, including gene expression (n = 272), transcription factor binding (n = 175), reporter assays (n = 171), in vivo models (n = 104), genome editing (n = 96) and chromatin interaction (n = 33). Conclusions This review of the literature is the first to systematically evaluate the status and the landscape of experimentation being used to validate non-coding GWAS-identified variants. Our results clearly underscore the multifaceted approach needed for experimental validation, have practical implications on variant prioritization and considerations of target gene nomination. While the field has a long way to go to validate the thousands of GWAS associations, we show that progress is being made and provide exemplars of validation studies covering a wide variety of mechanisms, target genes, and disease areas. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12920-022-01216-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar J Alsheikh
- Genomics Research Center, AbbVie Inc, North Chicago, Illinois, 60064, USA.
| | - Sabrina Wollenhaupt
- Information Research, AbbVie Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG, 67061, Knollstrasse, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Emily A King
- Genomics Research Center, AbbVie Inc, North Chicago, Illinois, 60064, USA
| | - Jonas Reeb
- Information Research, AbbVie Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG, 67061, Knollstrasse, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Sujana Ghosh
- Genomics Research Center, AbbVie Inc, North Chicago, Illinois, 60064, USA
| | | | - Saleh Tamim
- Genomics Research Center, AbbVie Inc, North Chicago, Illinois, 60064, USA
| | - Jozef Lazar
- Genomics Research Center, AbbVie Inc, North Chicago, Illinois, 60064, USA
| | - J Wade Davis
- Genomics Research Center, AbbVie Inc, North Chicago, Illinois, 60064, USA
| | - Howard J Jacob
- Genomics Research Center, AbbVie Inc, North Chicago, Illinois, 60064, USA
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Shyamala N, Kongettira CL, Puranam K, Kupsal K, Kummari R, Padala C, Hanumanth SR. In silico identification of single nucleotide variations at CpG sites regulating CpG island existence and size. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3574. [PMID: 35246549 PMCID: PMC8897451 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05198-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic and epigenetic modifications of genes involved in the key regulatory pathways play a significant role in the pathophysiology and progression of multifactorial diseases. The present study is an attempt to identify single nucleotide variations (SNVs) at CpG sites of promoters of ACAT1, APOB, APOE, CYBA, FAS, FLT1, KSR2, LDLR, MMP9, PCSK9, PHOX2A, REST, SH2B3, SORT1 and TIMP1 genes influencing CpG island (CGI) existence and size associated with the pathophysiology of Diabetes mellitus, Coronary artery disease and Cancers. Promoter sequences located between -2000 to + 2000 bp were retrieved from the EPDnew database and predicted the CpG island using MethPrimer. Further, SNVs at CpG sites were accessed from NCBI, Ensembl while transcription factor (TF) binding sites were accessed using AliBaba2.1. CGI existence and size were determined for each SNV at CpG site with respect to wild type and variant allele by MethPrimer. A total of 200 SNVs at CpG sites were analyzed from the promoters of ACAT1, APOB, APOE, CYBA, FAS, FLT1, KSR2, LDLR, MMP9, PCSK9, PHOX2A, REST, SH2B3, SORT1 and TIMP1 genes. Of these, only 17 (8.5%) SNVs were found to influence the loss of CGI while 70 (35%) SNVs were found to reduce the size of CGI. It has also been found that 59% (10) of CGI abolishing SNVs are showing differences in binding of TFs. The findings of the study suggest that the candidate SNVs at CpG sites regulating CGI existence and size might influence the DNA methylation status and expression of genes involved in molecular pathways associated with several diseases. The insights of the present study may pave the way for new experimental studies to undertake challenges in DNA methylation, gene expression and protein assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivas Shyamala
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana State, India
| | - Chaitra Lava Kongettira
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana State, India
| | - Kaushik Puranam
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana State, India
| | - Keerthi Kupsal
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana State, India
| | - Ramanjaneyulu Kummari
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana State, India
| | - Chiranjeevi Padala
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana State, India
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 500046, Telangana State, India
| | - Surekha Rani Hanumanth
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana State, India.
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Abstract
There has been a substantial increase in the incidence and the prevalence of allergic disorders in the recent decades, which seems to be related to rapid environmental and lifestyle changes, such as higher exposure to factors thought to exert pro-allergic effects but less contact with factors known to be associated with protection against the development of allergies. Pollution is the most remarkable example of the former, while less contact with microorganisms, lower proportion of unprocessed natural products in diet, and others resulting from urbanization and westernization of the lifestyle exemplify the latter. It is strongly believed that the effects of environmental factors on allergy susceptibility and development are mediated by epigenetic mechanisms, i.e. biologically relevant biochemical changes of the chromatin carrying transcriptionally-relevant information but not affecting the nucleotide sequence of the genome. Classical epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation and histone modifications, for instance acetylation or methylation. In addition, microRNA controls gene expression at the mRNA level. Such epigenetic mechanisms are involved in crucial regulatory processes in cells playing a pivotal role in allergies. Those include centrally managing cells, such as T lymphocytes, as well as specific structural and effector cells in the affected organs, responsible for the local clinical presentation of allergy, e.g. epithelial or airway smooth muscle cells in asthma. Considering that allergic disorders possess multiple clinical (phenotypes) and mechanistic (endotypes) forms, targeted, stratified treatment strategies based on detailed clinical and molecular diagnostics are required. Since conventional diagnostic or therapeutic approaches do not suffice, this gap could possibly be filled out by epigenetic approaches.
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The Predictive Role of Biomarkers and Genetics in Childhood Asthma Exacerbations. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094651. [PMID: 33925009 PMCID: PMC8124320 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma exacerbations are associated with significant childhood morbidity and mortality. Recurrent asthma attacks contribute to progressive loss of lung function and can sometimes be fatal or near-fatal, even in mild asthma. Exacerbation prevention becomes a primary target in the management of all asthmatic patients. Our work reviews current advances on exacerbation predictive factors, focusing on the role of non-invasive biomarkers and genetics in order to identify subjects at higher risk of asthma attacks. Easy-to-perform tests are necessary in children; therefore, interest has increased on samples like exhaled breath condensate, urine and saliva. The variability of biomarker levels suggests the use of seriate measurements and composite markers. Genetic predisposition to childhood asthma onset has been largely investigated. Recent studies highlighted the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms even on exacerbation susceptibility, through involvement of both intrinsic mechanisms and gene-environment interaction. The role of molecular and genetic aspects in exacerbation prediction supports an individual-shaped approach, in which follow-up planning and therapy optimization take into account not only the severity degree, but also the risk of recurrent exacerbations. Further efforts should be made to improve and validate the application of biomarkers and genomics in clinical settings.
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Tseng CC, Wong MC, Liao WT, Chen CJ, Lee SC, Yen JH, Chang SJ. Genetic Variants in Transcription Factor Binding Sites in Humans: Triggered by Natural Selection and Triggers of Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22084187. [PMID: 33919522 PMCID: PMC8073710 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Variants of transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) constitute an important part of the human genome. Current evidence demonstrates close links between nucleotides within TFBSs and gene expression. There are multiple pathways through which genomic sequences located in TFBSs regulate gene expression, and recent genome-wide association studies have shown the biological significance of TFBS variation in human phenotypes. However, numerous challenges remain in the study of TFBS polymorphisms. This article aims to cover the current state of understanding as regards the genomic features of TFBSs and TFBS variants; the mechanisms through which TFBS variants regulate gene expression; the approaches to studying the effects of nucleotide changes that create or disrupt TFBSs; the challenges faced in studies of TFBS sequence variations; the effects of natural selection on collections of TFBSs; in addition to the insights gained from the study of TFBS alleles related to gout, its associated comorbidities (increased body mass index, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, hypertension, hyperuricemia, osteoporosis, and prostate cancer), and the treatment responses of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chun Tseng
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (C.-C.T.); (J.-H.Y.)
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Man-Chun Wong
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
| | - Wei-Ting Liao
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (W.-T.L.); (S.-J.C.); Tel.: +886-7-3121101 (W.-T.L.); +886-7-5916679 (S.-J.C.); Fax:+886-7-3125339 (W.-T.L.); +886-7-5919264 (S.-J.C.)
| | - Chung-Jen Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung 80145, Taiwan;
| | - Su-Chen Lee
- Laboratory Diagnosis of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
| | - Jeng-Hsien Yen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan; (C.-C.T.); (J.-H.Y.)
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao-Tung University, Hsinchu 30010, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Jen Chang
- Department of Kinesiology, Health and Leisure Studies, National University of Kaohsiung, Kaohsiung 81148, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (W.-T.L.); (S.-J.C.); Tel.: +886-7-3121101 (W.-T.L.); +886-7-5916679 (S.-J.C.); Fax:+886-7-3125339 (W.-T.L.); +886-7-5919264 (S.-J.C.)
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Vohra M, Sharma AR, Prabhu B N, Rai PS. SNPs in Sites for DNA Methylation, Transcription Factor Binding, and miRNA Targets Leading to Allele-Specific Gene Expression and Contributing to Complex Disease Risk: A Systematic Review. Public Health Genomics 2020; 23:155-170. [PMID: 32966991 DOI: 10.1159/000510253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The complex genetic diversity among human populations results from an assortment of factors acting at various sequential levels, including mutations, population migrations, genetic drift, and selection. Although there are a plethora of DNA sequence variations identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), the challenge remains to explain the mechanisms underlying interindividual phenotypic disparity accounting for disease susceptibility. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) present in the sites for DNA methylation, transcription factor (TF) binding, or miRNA targets can alter the gene expression. The systematic review aimed to evaluate the complex crosstalk among SNPs, miRNAs, DNA methylation, and TFs for complex multifactorial disease risk. METHODS PubMed and Scopus databases were used from inception until May 15, 2019. Initially, screening of articles involved studies assessing the interaction of SNPs with TFs, DNA methylation, or miRNAs resulting in allele-specific gene expression in complex multifactorial diseases. We also included the studies which provided experimental validation of the interaction of SNPs with each of these factors. The results from various studies on multifactorial diseases were assessed. RESULTS A total of 11 articles for SNPs interacting with DNA methylation, 30 articles for SNPs interacting with TFs, and 11 articles for SNPs in miRNA binding sites were selected. The interactions of SNPs with epigenetic factors were found to be implicated in different types of cancers, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and asthma. CONCLUSION The systematic review provides evidence for the interplay between genetic and epigenetic risk factors through allele-specific gene expression in various complex multifactorial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manik Vohra
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Anu Radha Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Navya Prabhu B
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Padmalatha S Rai
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India,
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12
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Genetic and Epigenetic Aspects of Atopic Dermatitis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186484. [PMID: 32899887 PMCID: PMC7554821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis is a heterogeneous disease, in which the pathogenesis is associated with mutations in genes encoding epidermal structural proteins, barrier enzymes, and their inhibitors; the role of genes regulating innate and adaptive immune responses and environmental factors inducing the disease is also noted. Recent studies point to the key role of epigenetic changes in the development of the disease. Epigenetic modifications are mainly mediated by DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and the action of specific non-coding RNAs. It has been documented that the profile of epigenetic changes in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) differs from that observed in healthy people. This applies to the genes affecting the regulation of immune response and inflammatory processes, e.g., both affecting Th1 bias and promoting Th2 responses and the genes of innate immunity, as well as those encoding the structural proteins of the epidermis. Understanding of the epigenetic alterations is therefore pivotal to both create new molecular classifications of atopic dermatitis and to enable the development of personalized treatment strategies.
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Replicated methylation changes associated with eczema herpeticum and allergic response. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:122. [PMID: 31443688 PMCID: PMC6706929 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0714-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although epigenetic mechanisms are important risk factors for allergic disease, few studies have evaluated DNA methylation differences associated with atopic dermatitis (AD), and none has focused on AD with eczema herpeticum (ADEH+). We will determine how methylation varies in AD individuals with/without EH and associated traits. We modeled differences in genome-wide DNA methylation in whole blood cells from 90 ADEH+, 83 ADEH−, and 84 non-atopic, healthy control subjects, replicating in 36 ADEH+, 53 ADEH−, and 55 non-atopic healthy control subjects. We adjusted for cell-type composition in our models and used genome-wide and candidate-gene approaches. Results We replicated one CpG which was significantly differentially methylated by severity, with suggestive replication at four others showing differential methylation by phenotype or severity. Not adjusting for eosinophil content, we identified 490 significantly differentially methylated CpGs (ADEH+ vs healthy controls, genome-wide). Many of these associated with severity measures, especially eosinophil count (431/490 sites). Conclusions We identified a CpG in IL4 associated with serum tIgE levels, supporting a role for Th2 immune mediating mechanisms in AD. Changes in eosinophil level, a measure of disease severity, are associated with methylation changes, providing a potential mechanism for phenotypic changes in immune response-related traits. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13148-019-0714-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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14
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Junttila IS. Tuning the Cytokine Responses: An Update on Interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 Receptor Complexes. Front Immunol 2018; 9:888. [PMID: 29930549 PMCID: PMC6001902 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 384] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 are related cytokines that regulate many aspects of allergic inflammation. They play important roles in regulating the responses of lymphocytes, myeloid cells, and non-hematopoietic cells. In T-cells, IL-4 induces the differentiation of naïve CD4 T cells into Th2 cells, in B cells, IL-4 drives the immunoglobulin (Ig) class switch to IgG1 and IgE, and in macrophages, IL-4 and IL-13 induce alternative macrophage activation. This review gives a short insight into the functional formation of these cytokine receptors. I will discuss both the binding kinetics of ligand/receptor interactions and the expression of the receptor chains for these cytokines in various cell types; both of which are crucial factors in explaining the efficiency by which these cytokines induce intracellular signaling and gene expression. Work initiated in part by William (Bill) E. Paul on IL-4 some 30 years ago has now grown into a major building block of our current understanding of basic immunology and the immune response. This knowledge on IL-4 has growing clinical importance, as therapeutic approaches targeting the cytokine and its signal transduction are becoming a part of the clinical practice in treating allergic diseases. Just by reading the reference list of this short review, one can appreciate the enormous input Bill has had on shaping our understanding of the pathophysiology of allergic inflammation and in particular the role of IL-4 in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilkka S Junttila
- Cytokine Biology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland
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15
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Alaskhar Alhamwe B, Khalaila R, Wolf J, von Bülow V, Harb H, Alhamdan F, Hii CS, Prescott SL, Ferrante A, Renz H, Garn H, Potaczek DP. Histone modifications and their role in epigenetics of atopy and allergic diseases. ALLERGY, ASTHMA, AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 14:39. [PMID: 29796022 PMCID: PMC5966915 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-018-0259-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This review covers basic aspects of histone modification and the role of posttranslational histone modifications in the development of allergic diseases, including the immune mechanisms underlying this development. Together with DNA methylation, histone modifications (including histone acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, etc.) represent the classical epigenetic mechanisms. However, much less attention has been given to histone modifications than to DNA methylation in the context of allergy. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to provide an unbiased and comprehensive update on the involvement of histone modifications in allergy and the mechanisms underlying this development. In addition to covering the growing interest in the contribution of histone modifications in regulating the development of allergic diseases, this review summarizes some of the evidence supporting this contribution. There are at least two levels at which the role of histone modifications is manifested. One is the regulation of cells that contribute to the allergic inflammation (T cells and macrophages) and those that participate in airway remodeling [(myo-) fibroblasts]. The other is the direct association between histone modifications and allergic phenotypes. Inhibitors of histone-modifying enzymes may potentially be used as anti-allergic drugs. Furthermore, epigenetic patterns may provide novel tools in the diagnosis of allergic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Alaskhar Alhamwe
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- inVIVO Planetary Health, Group of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), New York, NJ USA
| | - Razi Khalaila
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Johanna Wolf
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Verena von Bülow
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Hani Harb
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- inVIVO Planetary Health, Group of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), New York, NJ USA
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Gießen, Germany
- Present Address: Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Fahd Alhamdan
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Charles S. Hii
- Department of Immunopathology, SA Pathology, Women and Children’s Hospital Campus, North Adelaide, SA Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine and School of Biological Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA Australia
| | - Susan L. Prescott
- inVIVO Planetary Health, Group of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), New York, NJ USA
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA Australia
| | - Antonio Ferrante
- inVIVO Planetary Health, Group of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), New York, NJ USA
- Department of Immunopathology, SA Pathology, Women and Children’s Hospital Campus, North Adelaide, SA Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine and School of Biological Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA Australia
| | - Harald Renz
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- inVIVO Planetary Health, Group of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), New York, NJ USA
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Gießen, Germany
| | - Holger Garn
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Gießen, Germany
| | - Daniel P. Potaczek
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Straße 3, 35043 Marburg, Germany
- inVIVO Planetary Health, Group of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), New York, NJ USA
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Gießen, Germany
- John Paul II Hospital, Krakow, Poland
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16
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Halwani R, Vazquez-Tello A, Kenana R, Al-Otaibi M, Alhasan KA, Shakoor Z, Al-Muhsen S. Association of IL-13 rs20541 and rs1295686 variants with symptomatic asthma in a Saudi Arabian population. J Asthma 2017; 55:1157-1165. [PMID: 29211635 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2017.1400047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interleukin 13 (IL-13) plays a critical pro-inflammatory role in asthma. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are associated with asthma susceptibility in specific populations; however, further replicative studies in other ethnic groups are mandatory. METHODS The association between IL-13 SNPs rs762534, rs20541, rs1295686, and rs1800925 (risk alleles A, A, T, and A, respectively) and asthma predisposition in a Saudi Arabian cohort was examined via a case-control cross-sectional study. RESULTS The frequencies of alleles between asthmatics and control populations were significantly different for rs20541 and rs1295686 SNPs (p < 0.001), whereas the frequencies of genotypes between asthmatics and controls were significantly different only for rs20541. The association of the risk (minor) alleles with asthma was examined using the dominant genetic model. Individuals with at least one copy of the risk alleles A (for rs20541) and T (for rs1295686) had significantly greater odds of being asthmatic (OR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.39-3.26, p < 0.0001; OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.12-2.54, p = 0.008) relative to their most common homozygous genotypes. On the other hand, the minor A alleles for rs762534 and rs1800925 were not significantly associated with asthma risk. Regarding haplotype association analysis, individuals with at least one copy of the minor "risk" allele for both rs20541 and rs1295686 (CATG and CATA, respectively) had greater odds of being asthmatic relative to CGCG haplotype; however, this trend was not statistically significant (p > 0.3). CONCLUSIONS IL-13 minor T and A alleles for rs1295686 and rs20541, respectively, were associated with significantly higher risk of asthma in the Saudi Arabian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabih Halwani
- a Immunology Research Laboratory and Asthma Research Chair, College of Medicine , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia.,b Department of Pediatrics , College of Medicine, King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Alejandro Vazquez-Tello
- a Immunology Research Laboratory and Asthma Research Chair, College of Medicine , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Rosan Kenana
- a Immunology Research Laboratory and Asthma Research Chair, College of Medicine , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Maram Al-Otaibi
- c Department of Pathology , King Khalid University Hospital, College of Medicine, King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid A Alhasan
- b Department of Pediatrics , College of Medicine, King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Zahid Shakoor
- c Department of Pathology , King Khalid University Hospital, College of Medicine, King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Al-Muhsen
- a Immunology Research Laboratory and Asthma Research Chair, College of Medicine , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia.,b Department of Pediatrics , College of Medicine, King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
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17
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Hwang SS, Jang SW, Lee KO, Kim HS, Lee GR. RHS6 coordinately regulates the Th2 cytokine genes by recruiting GATA3, SATB1, and IRF4. Allergy 2017; 72:772-782. [PMID: 27878828 DOI: 10.1111/all.13078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a Th2 cell-driven inflammatory disease and a major public health concern. The cis-acting element Rad50 hypersensitive site 6 (RHS6) in the Th2 locus control region is essential for regulation of the Th2 cytokine genes; however, its role in allergic airway inflammation and underlying molecular mechanisms of the regulation by RHS6 are poorly understood. OBJECTIVE We sought to understand the role of RHS6 in the development of allergic airway inflammation and its molecular mechanism for Th2 cytokine expression. METHODS We used an ovalbumin-induced allergic inflammation model with RHS6-deficient mice to examine the role of RHS6 in this process. To examine molecular mechanism of RHS6 for Th2 cytokine expression, we used DNA affinity chromatography and mass spectrometry, quantitative RT-PCR, ELISA, intracellular cytokine staining, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and co-immunoprecipitation. RESULTS Deletion of RHS6 caused a dramatic resistance to allergic airway inflammation. RHS6 recruited transcription factors GATA3, SATB1, and IRF4, which play important roles in expression of all three Th2 cytokine genes. RHS6 deficiency caused inhibition of transcription factor-induced Th2 cytokine gene expression. CONCLUSION RHS6 is a critical regulatory element for allergic airway inflammation and for coordinate regulation of Th2 cytokine genes by recruiting GATA3, SATB1, and IRF4.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. S. Hwang
- Department of Life Science; Sogang University; Mapo-gu Seoul Korea
| | - S. W. Jang
- Department of Life Science; Sogang University; Mapo-gu Seoul Korea
| | - K. O. Lee
- Department of Life Science; Sogang University; Mapo-gu Seoul Korea
| | - H. S. Kim
- Department of Life Science; Sogang University; Mapo-gu Seoul Korea
| | - G. R. Lee
- Department of Life Science; Sogang University; Mapo-gu Seoul Korea
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Flayer
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Translational Lung Biology Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - A Haczku
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Translational Lung Biology Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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19
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Potaczek DP, Harb H, Michel S, Alhamwe BA, Renz H, Tost J. Epigenetics and allergy: from basic mechanisms to clinical applications. Epigenomics 2017; 9:539-571. [PMID: 28322581 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2016-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergic diseases are on the rise in the Western world and well-known allergy-protecting and -driving factors such as microbial and dietary exposure, pollution and smoking mediate their influence through alterations of the epigenetic landscape. Here, we review key facts on the involvement of epigenetic modifications in allergic diseases and summarize and critically evaluate the lessons learned from epigenome-wide association studies. We show the potential of epigenetic changes for various clinical applications: as diagnostic tools, to assess tolerance following immunotherapy or possibly predict the success of therapy at an early time point. Furthermore, new technological advances such as epigenome editing and DNAzymes will allow targeted alterations of the epigenome in the future and provide novel therapeutic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Potaczek
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,International Inflammation (in-FLAME) Network, Worldwide Universities Network (WUN).,German Centre for Lung Research (DZL).,John Paul II Hospital, Krakow, Poland
| | - Hani Harb
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,International Inflammation (in-FLAME) Network, Worldwide Universities Network (WUN).,German Centre for Lung Research (DZL)
| | - Sven Michel
- Secarna Pharmaceuticals GmbH & Co KG, Planegg, Germany
| | - Bilal Alashkar Alhamwe
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Harald Renz
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,International Inflammation (in-FLAME) Network, Worldwide Universities Network (WUN).,German Centre for Lung Research (DZL)
| | - Jörg Tost
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, Centre National de Génotypage, CEA-Institut de Génomique, Evry, France
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20
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this review was to systematically analyze recent studies updating our knowledge on the role of epigenetic mechanisms in childhood asthma. RECENT FINDINGS A systematic literature search was conducted that identified 23 fresh articles published within the last 5 years reporting the results of human studies on the relationships between epigenetic modifications and childhood asthma or its/related phenotypes. In almost all these studies, meaningful associations between levels of epigenetic marks (DNA methylation and/or histone modifications) and pediatric asthma or its/related phenotypes have been observed. In addition, many studies identified by our screening analyzed those associations in the context of environmental factors, such as pollution, tobacco smoke, farming, or diet, showing in a huge majority a modifying effect of those exposures. SUMMARY The results of our systematic literature search provide a strong support for the role of epigenetic mechanisms in (mediating the effects of environmental exposure on) pediatric asthma. This knowledge may possibly be translated into diagnostic and/or therapeutic approaches.
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21
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Li JY, Zhang Y, Lin XP, Ruan Y, Wang Y, Wang CS, Zhang L. Association between DNA hypomethylation at IL13 gene and allergic rhinitis in house dust mite-sensitized subjects. Clin Exp Allergy 2016; 46:298-307. [PMID: 26399722 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Revised: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a complex disease, in which gene-environment interactions contribute to its pathogenesis. Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation play an important role in the regulation of gene function. As IL13, a pleiotropic cytokine, may be important in conferring susceptibility to AR, the aim of the present work was to assess the relationship between a CpG island methylation status at the upstream of IL13 gene and house dust mite (HDM)-sensitized AR in Han Chinese subjects. METHODS A total of 60 patients with HDM-sensitized AR and 65 control subjects were enrolled as two independent cohorts from Beijing and Liaoning. MassARRAY EpiTYPER and pyrosequencing was used to systematically screen the status of DNA methylation in peripheral blood leucocytes. IL13 mRNA expression was measured by real-time quantitative PCR. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay was used to assess the function of methylation site. RESULTS The mean level of methylation was decreased in the AR patient group compared with the control group (P = 0.01). Two of a total of 33 IL13CpG units analysed (CpG units 24 : 25 : 26 and 38 : 39) showed significant differences in methylation status between the AR patient group and the control group, with DNA hypomethylation at CpG38 significantly associated with higher risk of HDM-sensitized AR in both independent cohorts and a combined cohort (Beijing: OR = 1.24, 95%CI = 1.01-1.52, P = 0.036; Liaoning: OR = 1.62, 95%CI = 1.11-2.38, P = 0.013; Combined: OR = 1.31, 95%CI = 1.10-1.56, P = 0.002). Methylation level of CpG38 correlated negatively with both IL13 mRNA expression and serum total IgE level and affected the binding affinity of SP1. CONCLUSIONS DNA hypomethylation of IL13 gene may be associated with increased risk of AR from HDM sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Y Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - Y Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China.,Department of Allergy, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - X P Lin
- Center of Allergy and Immunotherapy, The General Hospital of Shenyang Military Command, Shenyang, China
| | - Y Ruan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - Y Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China
| | - C S Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China.,Department of Allergy, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - L Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal diseases, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Beijing, China.,Department of Allergy, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1 (DMRT1) is a sex-specific genetic determinant of childhood-onset asthma and is expressed in testis and macrophages. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 138:421-31. [PMID: 26906082 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2015.12.1305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a disease affecting more boys than girls in childhood and more women than men in adulthood. The mechanisms behind these sex-specific differences are not yet understood. OBJECTIVE We analyzed whether and how genetic factors contribute to sex-specific predisposition to childhood-onset asthma. METHODS Interactions between sex and polymorphisms on childhood asthma risk were evaluated in the Multicentre Asthma Genetics in Childhood Study (MAGICS)/Phase II International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC II) population on a genome-wide level, and findings were validated in independent populations. Genetic fine mapping of sex-specific asthma association signals was performed, and putatively causal polymorphisms were characterized in vitro by using electrophoretic mobility shift and luciferase activity assays. Gene and protein expression of the identified gene doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1 (DMRT1) were measured in different human tissues by using quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Polymorphisms in the testis-associated gene DMRT1 displayed interactions with sex on asthma status in a population of primarily clinically defined asthmatic children and nonasthmatic control subjects (lowest P = 5.21 × 10(-6)). Replication of this interaction was successful in 2 childhood populations clinically assessed for asthma but showed heterogeneous results in other population-based samples. Polymorphism rs3812523 located in the putative DMRT1 promoter was associated with allele-specific changes in transcription factor binding and promoter activity in vitro. DMRT1 expression was observed not only in the testis but also in lung macrophages. CONCLUSION DMRT1 might influence sex-specific patterns of childhood asthma, and its expression in testis tissue and lung macrophages suggests a potential involvement in hormone or immune cell regulation.
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Regulation of IL-4 Expression in Immunity and Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 941:31-77. [PMID: 27734408 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-024-0921-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
IL-4 was first identified as a T cell-derived growth factor for B cells. Studies over the past several decades have markedly expanded our understanding of its cellular sources and function. In addition to T cells, IL-4 is produced by innate lymphocytes, such as NTK cells, and myeloid cells, such as basophils and mast cells. It is a signature cytokine of type 2 immune response but also has a nonimmune function. Its expression is tightly regulated at several levels, including signaling pathways, transcription factors, epigenetic modifications, microRNA, and long noncoding RNA. This chapter will review in detail the molecular mechanism regulating the cell type-specific expression of IL-4 in physiological and pathological type 2 immune responses.
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Establishing a birth cohort to investigate the course and aetiology of asthma and allergies across three generations - rationale, design, and methods of the ACROSSOLAR study. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1210. [PMID: 26637409 PMCID: PMC4670515 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2555-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Atopic diseases are a major burden of disease on a global scale. Regarding their aetiology, the early years of life are assumed to play a crucial role. In addition, there is growing evidence that elucidating the impact of cross-generational effects and epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation can substantially widen the scientific knowledge of the occurrence and progression of these diseases. We are thus aiming at following the course of asthma, allergies, and potential risk factors for their occurrence across three generations by establishing a birth cohort in the offspring of an existing population-based cohort. Methods/Design 2051 young adults who have been recruited in 1995 for Phase II of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) and who have subsequently been followed-up by the Study on Occupational Allergy Risks (SOLAR) are asked bi-annually since 2009 if they conceived a child in the meantime. If parenthood is reported, parents are invited to enrol along with their children in the ACROSSOLAR cohort. Participation involves completing a questionnaire assessing general and health-related information about the course of the pregnancy and the first year of life of their children. Subsequently, the children are followed up until primary school age when asthma and allergies can be diagnosed reliably. In addition, DNA for epigenetic analysis will be collected and analysed. Longitudinal data analysis techniques will then be used to assess potential associations between early-life exposures and onset of childhood asthma and allergies taking into account epigenetics. Discussion Birth cohorts are especially suited to elucidate the impact of genetic predisposition, epigenetics, exposures during the first years of life, and gene-environment interactions on the occurrence and progression of asthma and allergies. By building upon an existing cohort, ACROSSOLAR offers a unique and cost-effective opportunity to investigate the aetiology of atopic disease in a prospective and cross-generational way.
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Ng CL, Wang DY. Latest developments in allergic rhinitis in Allergy for clinicians and researchers. Allergy 2015; 70:1521-30. [PMID: 26443244 DOI: 10.1111/all.12782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Research efforts in allergic rhinitis have always been intense. Over the past 3 years, numerous breakthroughs in basic science and clinical research have been made, augmenting our understanding of this condition that afflicts a significant proportion of the global population. New epidemiological findings, novel insights into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of allergy, enhancement of current developmental theories, new concepts of the goals and endpoints of management, and latest therapeutic modalities that includes the harnessing of information technology and big data are some areas where important advances were made. We attempt to bring you a summary of the key research advances made in the field of allergic rhinitis from 2013 to 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. L. Ng
- Department of Otolaryngology; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine; National University of Singapore; National University Health System; Singapore City Singapore
| | - D. Y. Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology; Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine; National University of Singapore; National University Health System; Singapore City Singapore
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Sabounchi S, Bollyky J, Nadeau K. Review of Environmental Impact on the Epigenetic Regulation of Atopic Diseases. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2015; 15:33. [PMID: 26141578 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-015-0533-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There has been significant increase in the prevalence of atopy over the past decade that cannot be explained by genetic predisposition. Environmental factors including nutrition, the uterine environment, and lifestyle factors are known to play a role in gene expression through epigenetic modifications. In this article, we review the literature on the environmental impact on epigenetic modulation of atopic diseases including asthma, food allergy, eczema, and allergic rhinitis. Recent public release of epigenomic data for hundreds of human tissues provides a powerful resource for further investigation of the molecular basis of atopic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saman Sabounchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 269 Campus Drive, CCSR Suite 3215, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Harb H, Renz H. Update on epigenetics in allergic disease. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2015; 135:15-24. [PMID: 25567039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases, including allergies and asthma, are the result of complex gene-environment interactions. One of the most challenging questions in this regard relates to the biochemical mechanism of how exogenous environmental trigger factors modulate and modify gene expression, subsequently leading to the development of chronic inflammatory conditions. Epigenetics comprises the umbrella of biochemical reactions and mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and chromatin modifications on histones and other structures. Recently, several lifestyle and environmental factors have been investigated in terms of such biochemical interactions with the gene expression-regulating machinery: allergens; microbes and microbial compounds; dietary factors, including vitamin B12, folic acid, and fish oil; obesity; and stress. This article aims to update recent developments in this context with an emphasis on allergy and asthma research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Harb
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Harald Renz
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
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Hong X, Wang X. Epigenetics and development of food allergy (FA) in early childhood. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2014; 14:460. [PMID: 25096861 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-014-0460-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review aims to highlight the latest advance on epigenetics in the development of food allergy (FA) and to offer future perspectives. FA, a condition caused by an immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated hypersensitivity reaction to food, has emerged as a major clinical and public health problem worldwide in light of its increasing prevalence, potential fatality, and significant medical and economic impact. Current evidence supports that epigenetic mechanisms are involved in immune regulation and that the epigenome may represent a key "missing piece" of the etiological puzzle for FA. There are a growing number of population-based epigenetic studies on allergy-related phenotypes, mostly focused on DNA methylation. Previous studies mostly applied candidate-gene approaches and have demonstrated that epigenetic marks are associated with multiple allergic diseases and/or with early-life exposures relevant to allergy development (such as early-life smoking exposure, air pollution, farming environment, and dietary fat). Rapid technological advancements have made unbiased genome-wide DNA methylation studies highly feasible, although there are substantial challenge in study design, data analyses, and interpretation of findings. In conclusion, epigenetics represents both an important knowledge gap and a promising research area for FA. Due to the early onset of FA, epigenetic studies of FA in prospective birth cohorts have the potential to better understand gene-environment interactions and underlying biological mechanisms in FA during critical developmental windows (preconception, in utero, and early childhood) and may lead to new paradigms in the diagnosis, prevention, and management of FA and provide novel targets for future drug discovery and therapies for FA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiumei Hong
- Center on the Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, E4132, Baltimore, MD, 21205-2179, USA
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