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Herlin MK. Genetics of Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome: advancements and implications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1368990. [PMID: 38699388 PMCID: PMC11063329 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1368990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a congenital anomaly characterized by agenesis/aplasia of the uterus and upper part of the vagina in females with normal external genitalia and a normal female karyotype (46,XX). Patients typically present during adolescence with complaints of primary amenorrhea where the diagnosis is established with significant implications including absolute infertility. Most often cases appear isolated with no family history of MRKH syndrome or related anomalies. However, cumulative reports of familial recurrence suggest genetic factors to be involved. Early candidate gene studies had limited success in their search for genetic causes of MRKH syndrome. More recently, genomic investigations using chromosomal microarray and genome-wide sequencing have been successful in detecting promising genetic variants associated with MRKH syndrome, including 17q12 (LHX1, HNF1B) and 16p11.2 (TBX6) deletions and sequence variations in GREB1L and PAX8, pointing towards a heterogeneous etiology with various genes involved. With uterus transplantation as an emerging fertility treatment in MRKH syndrome and increasing evidence for genetic etiologies, the need for genetic counseling concerning the recurrence risk in offspring will likely increase. This review presents the advancements in MRKH syndrome genetics from early familial occurrences and candidate gene searches to current genomic studies. Moreover, the review provides suggestions for future genetic investigations and discusses potential implications for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Krogh Herlin
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
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2
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Daum H, Kremer E, Frumkin A, Meiner V, Diamant H, Harel I, Bauman D. A Case Report of Familial Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome as Part of the Phenotypic Spectrum of the 2q37 Deletion. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2024; 37:95-97. [PMID: 37734585 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2023.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
We performed a genetic investigation into the case of an inherited Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome. Our patients were an adolescent and her mother, both with MRKH syndrome. The delivery of a biological offspring was achieved via a gestational carrier. Karyotype and exome sequencing were used to complete a three-generation genetic analysis of the family. Both the mother and her daughter harbored a deletion of 4 Mb at the locus of 2q37, a syndrome rarely described in association with MRKH. No pathogenic single-nucleotide variant relevant to the phenotype was found. The deletion was not inherited from either parent of the mother. In addition, some physical findings suggesting 2q37 deletion syndrome were found in our patients. We conclude that when combined with the use of a gestational carrier or uterine transplantation, the identification of a genetic cause for MRKH may enable the application of preimplantation genetic testing on embryos, thus potentially averting the transmission of the genetic anomaly to subsequent generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hagit Daum
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Einav Kremer
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel; Obstetrics and gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ayala Frumkin
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vardiella Meiner
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hagit Diamant
- Obstetrics and gynecology, Soroka Medical Center, Be'er Sheva, Israel
| | - Iris Harel
- Obstetrics and gynecology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
| | - Dvora Bauman
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel; Obstetrics and gynecology, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel
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Dube R, Kar SS, Jhancy M, George BT. Molecular Basis of Müllerian Agenesis Causing Congenital Uterine Factor Infertility-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:120. [PMID: 38203291 PMCID: PMC10778982 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects around 1 in 5 couples in the world. Congenital absence of the uterus results in absolute infertility in females. Müllerian agenesis is the nondevelopment of the uterus. Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a condition of uterovaginal agenesis in the presence of normal ovaries and the 46 XX Karyotype. With advancements in reproductive techniques, women with MA having biological offspring is possible. The exact etiology of MA is unknown, although several genes and mechanisms affect the development of Müllerian ducts. Through this systematic review of the available literature, we searched for the genetic basis of MA. The aims included identification of the genes, chromosomal locations, changes responsible for MA, and fertility options, in order to offer proper management and counseling to these women with MA. A total of 85 studies were identified through searches. Most of the studies identified multiple genes at various locations, although the commonest involved chromosomes 1, 17, and 22. There is also conflicting evidence of the involvement of various candidate genes in the studies. The etiology of MA seems to be multifactorial and complex, involving multiple genes and mechanisms including various mutations and mosaicism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajani Dube
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates
| | - Subhranshu Sekhar Kar
- Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates; (S.S.K.); (M.J.)
| | - Malay Jhancy
- Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates; (S.S.K.); (M.J.)
| | - Biji Thomas George
- Department of General Surgery, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates;
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Brakta S, Hawkins ZA, Sahajpal N, Seman N, Kira D, Chorich LP, Kim HG, Xu H, Phillips JA, Kolhe R, Layman LC. Rare structural variants, aneuploidies, and mosaicism in individuals with Mullerian aplasia detected by optical genome mapping. Hum Genet 2023; 142:483-494. [PMID: 36797380 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-023-02522-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The molecular basis of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome remains largely unknown. Pathogenic variants in WNT4 and HNF1B have been confirmed in a small percent of individuals. A variety of copy number variants have been reported, but causal gene(s) remain to be identified. We hypothesized that rare structural variants (SVs) would be present in some individuals with MRKH, which could explain the genetic basis of the syndrome. Large molecular weight DNA was extracted from lymphoblastoid cells from 87 individuals with MRKH and available parents. Optical genome mapping (OGM) was performed to identify SVs, which were confirmed by another method (quantitative PCR, chromosomal microarray, karyotype, or fluorescent in situ hybridization) when possible. Thirty-four SVs that overlapped coding regions of genes with potential involvement in MRKH were identified, 14 of which were confirmed by a second method. These 14 SVs were present in 17/87 (19.5%) of probands with MRKH and included seven deletions, three duplications, one new translocation in 5/50 cells-t(7;14)(q32;q32), confirmation of a previously identified translocation-t(3;16)(p22.3;p13.3), and two aneuploidies. Of interest, three cases of mosaicism (3.4% of probands) were identified-25% mosaicism for trisomy 12, 45,X(75%)/46,XX (25%), and 10% mosaicism for a 7;14 translocation. Our study constitutes the first systematic investigation of SVs by OGM in individuals with MRKH. We propose that OGM is a promising method that enables a comprehensive investigation of a variety of SVs in a single assay including cryptic translocations and mosaic aneuploidies. These observations suggest that mosaicism could play a role in the genesis of MRKH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumia Brakta
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia.
| | - Zoe A Hawkins
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Nikhil Sahajpal
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia.,Department of Genetics, Greenwood Genetics Center, Greenwood, SC, USA
| | - Natalie Seman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Dina Kira
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Lynn P Chorich
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Hyung-Goo Kim
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - John A Phillips
- Division of Medical Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ravindra Kolhe
- Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Lawrence C Layman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia. .,Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia. .,Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia.
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Identification of Genetic Causes in Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) Syndrome: A Systematic Review of the Literature. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9070961. [PMID: 35883945 PMCID: PMC9322756 DOI: 10.3390/children9070961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a congenital condition characterizing females with absence of the uterus and part of the vagina. Several genetic defects have been correlated with the presence of MRKH; however, the exact etiology is still unknown due to the complexity of the genetic pathways implicated during the embryogenetic development of the Müllerian ducts. A systematic review (SR) of the literature was conducted to investigate the genetic causes associated with MRKH syndrome and Congenital Uterine Anomalies (CUAs). This study aimed to identify the most affected chromosomal areas and genes along with their associated clinical features in order to aid clinicians in distinguishing and identifying the possible genetic cause in each patient offering better genetic counseling. We identified 76 studies describing multiple genetic defects potentially contributing to the pathogenetic mechanism of MRKH syndrome. The most reported chromosomal regions and the possible genes implicated were: 1q21.1 (RBM8A gene), 1p31-1p35 (WNT4 gene), 7p15.3 (HOXA gene), 16p11 (TBX6 gene), 17q12 (LHX1 and HNF1B genes), 22q11.21, and Xp22. Although the etiology of MRKH syndrome is complex, associated clinical features can aid in the identification of a specific genetic defect.
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Chu C, Li L, Li S, Zhou Q, Zheng P, Zhang YD, Duan AH, Lu D, Wu YM. Variants in genes related to development of the urinary system are associated with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome. Hum Genomics 2022; 16:10. [PMID: 35361250 PMCID: PMC8969342 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-022-00385-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, also known as Müllerian agenesis, is characterized by uterovaginal aplasia in an otherwise phenotypically normal female with a normal 46,XX karyotype. Previous studies have associated sequence variants of PAX8, TBX6, GEN1, WNT4, WNT9B, BMP4, BMP7, HOXA10, EMX2, LHX1, GREB1L, LAMC1, and other genes with MRKH syndrome. The purpose of this study was to identify the novel genetic causes of MRKH syndrome. Ten patients with MRKH syndrome were recruited at Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China. Whole-exome sequencing was performed for each patient. Sanger sequencing confirmed the potential causative genetic variants in each patient. In silico analysis and American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines helped to classify the pathogenicity of each variant. The Robetta online protein structure prediction tool determined whether the variants affected protein structures. Eleven variants were identified in 90% (9/10) of the patients and were considered a molecular genetic diagnosis of MRKH syndrome. These 11 variants were related to nine genes: TBC1D1, KMT2D, HOXD3, DLG5, GLI3, HIRA, GATA3, LIFR, and CLIP1. Sequence variants of TBC1D1 were found in two unrelated patients. All variants were heterozygous. These changes included one frameshift variant, one stop-codon variant, and nine missense variants. All identified variants were absent or rare in gnomAD East Asian populations. Two of the 11 variants (18.2%) were classified as pathogenic according to the ACMG guidelines, and the remaining nine (81.8%) were classified as variants of uncertain significance. Robetta online protein structure prediction analysis suggested that missense variants in TBC1D1 (p.E357Q), HOXD3 (p.P192R), and GLI3 (p.L299V) proteins caused significant structural changes compared to those in wild-type proteins, which in turn may lead to changes in protein function. This study identified many novel genes, especially TBC1D1, related to the pathogenesis of MRKH syndrome. The identification of these variants provides new insights into the etiology of MRKH syndrome and a new molecular genetic reference for the development of the reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunfang Chu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Shenghui Li
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Ping Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Yu-Di Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Ai-Hong Duan
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Dan Lu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, 100026, China
| | - Yu-Mei Wu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Dongcheng, Beijing, 100006, China.
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Kyei-Barffour I, Margetts M, Vash-Margita A, Pelosi E. The Embryological Landscape of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser Syndrome: Genetics and Environmental Factors. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2021; 94:657-672. [PMID: 34970104 PMCID: PMC8686787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a disorder caused by Müllerian ducts dysgenesis affecting 1 in 5000 women with a typical 46,XX karyotype. The etiology of MRKH syndrome is complex and largely unexplained. Familial clustering suggests a genetic component and the spectrum of clinical presentations seems consistent with an inheritance pattern characterized by incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. Mutations of several candidate genes have been proposed as possible causes based on genetic analyses of human patients and animal models. In addition, studies of monozygotic twins with discordant phenotypes suggest a role for epigenetic changes following potential exposure to environmental compounds. The spectrum of clinical presentations is consistent with intricate disruptions of shared developmental pathways or signals during early organogenesis. However, the lack of functional validation and translational studies have limited our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in this condition. The clinical management of affected women, including early diagnosis, genetic testing of MRKH syndrome, and the implementation of counseling strategies, is significantly impeded by these knowledge gaps. Here, we illustrate the embryonic development of tissues and organs affected by MRKH syndrome, highlighting key pathways that could be involved in its pathogenesis. In addition, we will explore the genetics of this condition, as well as the potential role of environmental factors, and discuss their implications to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Kyei-Barffour
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape
Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Miranda Margetts
- Center for American Indian and Rural Health Equity,
Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Alla Vash-Margita
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive
Sciences, Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Yale University
School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Emanuele Pelosi
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Kapczuk K, Kędzia W. Primary Amenorrhea Due to Anatomical Abnormalities of the Reproductive Tract: Molecular Insight. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111495. [PMID: 34768925 PMCID: PMC8584168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital anomalies of the female reproductive tract that present with primary amenorrhea involve Müllerian aplasia, also known as Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKHS), and cervical and vaginal anomalies that completely obstruct the reproductive tract. Karyotype abnormalities do not exclude the diagnosis of MRKHS. Familial cases of Müllerian anomalies and associated malformations of the urinary and skeletal systems strongly suggest a complex genetic etiology, but so far, the molecular mechanism in the vast majority of cases remains unknown. Primary amenorrhea may also be the first presentation of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome, steroid 5α-reductase type 2 deficiency, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency, and Leydig cells hypoplasia type 1; therefore, these disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the congenital absence of the uterus and vagina. The molecular diagnosis in the majority of these cases can be established.
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Singh N, Singh D, Modi D. LIM Homeodomain (LIM-HD) Genes and Their Co-Regulators in Developing Reproductive System and Disorders of Sex Development. Sex Dev 2021; 16:147-161. [PMID: 34518474 DOI: 10.1159/000518323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
LIM homeodomain (LIM-HD) family genes are transcription factors that play crucial roles in a variety of functions during embryonic development. The activities of the LIM-HD proteins are regulated by the co-regulators LIM only (LMO) and LIM domain-binding (LDB). In the mouse genome, there are 13 LIM-HD genes (Lhx1-Lhx9, Isl1-2, Lmx1a-1b), 4 Lmo genes (Lmo1-4), and 2 Ldb genes (Ldb1-2). Amongst these, Lhx1 is required for the development of the müllerian duct epithelium and the timing of the primordial germ cell migration. Lhx8 is necessary for oocyte differentiation and Lhx9 for somatic cell proliferation in the genital ridges and control of testosterone production in the Leydig cells. Lmo4 is involved in Sertoli cell differentiation. Mutations in LHX1 are associated with müllerian agenesis or Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome. LHX9 gene variants are reported in cases with disorders of sex development (DSD). Mutations in LHX3 and LHX4 are reported in patients with combined pituitary hormone deficiency having absent or delayed puberty. A transcript map of the Lhx, Lmo, and Ldb genes reveal that multiple LIM-HD genes and their co-regulators are expressed in a sexually dimorphic pattern in the developing mouse gonads. Unraveling the roles of LIM-HD genes during development will aid in our understanding of the causes of DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Singh
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| | - Domdatt Singh
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
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Li L, Chu C, Li S, Lu D, Zheng P, Sheng J, Luo LJ, Wu X, Zhang YD, Yin C, Duan AH. Renal agenesis-related genes are associated with Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:1360-1369. [PMID: 34311961 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the genetic causes of Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome (HWWS) using whole-exome sequencing. DESIGN Retrospective genetic study. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Twelve patients with HWWS. INTERVENTION(S) Whole-exome sequencing was performed for each patient. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the potential causative genetic variants. In silico analysis and American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines were used to classify the pathogenicity of each variant. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Rare sequence variants associated with müllerian duct development and renal agenesis were identified and included in subsequent analyses. RESULT(S) A total of 11 variants were identified in 10 of 12 patients (83.3%) and were considered to constitute a molecular genetic diagnosis of HWWS. These 11 variants were related to 9 genes: CHD1L, TRIM32, TGFBR3, WNT4, RET, FRAS1, FAT1, FOXF1, and PCSK5. All variants were heterozygous and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The changes included one frameshift variant, one splice-site variant, and eight missense variants. All of the identified variants were absent or rare in Genome Aggregation Database East Asian populations. One of the 11 variants (9.1%) was classified as a pathogenic variant according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines, and 8 of the 11 variants (72.7%) were classified as variants of uncertain significance. CONCLUSION(S) To our knowledge, this is the first report of the genetic causes of HWWS. Renal agenesis-related genes, such as CHD1L, TRIM32, RET, and WNT4, may be associated with HWWS. Identification of these variants can not only help us understand the etiology of HWWS and the relationship between reproductive tract development and urinary system development, but additionally improve the level of genetic counseling for HWWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunfang Chu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shenghui Li
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Lu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Sheng
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Jing Luo
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Di Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenghong Yin
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ai-Hong Duan
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Chaoyang, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Santana González L, Artibani M, Ahmed AA. Studying Müllerian duct anomalies - from cataloguing phenotypes to discovering causation. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:269240. [PMID: 34160006 PMCID: PMC8246269 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.047977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Müllerian duct anomalies (MDAs) are developmental disorders of the Müllerian duct, the embryonic anlage of most of the female reproductive tract. The prevalence of MDAs is 6.7% in the general female population and 16.7% in women who exhibit recurrent miscarriages. Individuals affected by these anomalies suffer from high rates of infertility, first-trimester pregnancy losses, premature labour, placental retention, foetal growth retardation and foetal malpresentations. The aetiology of MDAs is complex and heterogeneous, displaying a range of clinical pictures that generally lack a direct genotype-phenotype correlation. De novo and familial cases sharing the same genomic lesions have been reported. The familial cases follow an autosomal-dominant inheritance, with reduced penetrance and variable expressivity. Furthermore, few genetic factors and molecular pathways underpinning Müllerian development and dysregulations causing MDAs have been identified. The current knowledge in this field predominantly derives from loss-of-function experiments in mouse and chicken models, as well as from human genetic association studies using traditional approaches, such as microarrays and Sanger sequencing, limiting the discovery of causal factors to few genetic entities from the coding genome. In this Review, we summarise the current state of the field, discuss limitations in the number of studies and patient samples that have stalled progress, and review how the development of new technologies provides a unique opportunity to overcome these limitations. Furthermore, we discuss how these new technologies can improve functional validation of potential causative alterations in MDAs. Summary: Here, we review the current knowledge about Müllerian duct anomalies in the context of new high-throughput technologies and model systems and their implications in the prevention of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Santana González
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Mara Artibani
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.,Gene Regulatory Networks in Development and Disease Laboratory, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Ahmed Ashour Ahmed
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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12
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Dell'Edera D, Allegretti A, Ventura M, Mercuri L, Mitidieri A, Cuscianna G, Epifania AA, Morizio E, Alfonsi M, Guanciali-Franchi P. Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome with 22q11.21 microduplication: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2021; 15:208. [PMID: 33883018 PMCID: PMC8058992 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-021-02716-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man [OMIM] #277000) is a congenital condition characterized by the total or partial agenesis of vagina and uterus. Agenesis can be isolated (MRKH 1) or associated with other renal, vertebral or cardiac defects (MRKH 2). CASE PRESENTATION In this paper, we report a case of a Caucasian patient showing the clinical signs associated with MRKH. Array-based comparative genomic hybridization (a-CGH) analysis revealed a microduplication of approximately 3.01 megabases (Mb) located on the long arm of chromosome 22 (22q11.21). Microduplications affecting the 22q11.21 region have been shown to be associated with MRKH syndrome and Müllerian aplasia. The phenotype of patients with 22q11.2 duplication (OMIM #608363) appears extremely variable, ranging from apparently normal to mild learning difficulties or with multiple defects, sharing features with DiGeorge/velocardiofacial (DGS/VCFS) syndrome. CONCLUSIONS The altered gene expression together with other genetic, nongenetic, epigenetic or environmental factors can cause the extremely variable phenotype in patients carrying such duplication. Therefore, we can consider MRKH syndrome to be one of the clinical features of DGS/VCFS syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Dell'Edera
- Medical Genetics Unit, "Madonna delle Grazie" Hospital, Contrada Cattedra Ambulante, Snc, 75100, Matera, Italy.
| | - Arianna Allegretti
- Medical Genetics Unit, "Madonna delle Grazie" Hospital, Contrada Cattedra Ambulante, Snc, 75100, Matera, Italy
| | - Mario Ventura
- Department of Biology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Angela Mitidieri
- Medical Genetics Unit, "Madonna delle Grazie" Hospital, Contrada Cattedra Ambulante, Snc, 75100, Matera, Italy
| | - Giacinto Cuscianna
- Unit of Diagnostic Radiology and General Interventional Radiology, "Madonna delle Grazie" Hospital, Matera, Italy
| | - Annunziata Anna Epifania
- Medical Genetics Unit, "Madonna delle Grazie" Hospital, Contrada Cattedra Ambulante, Snc, 75100, Matera, Italy
| | - Elisena Morizio
- Department of Medical Genetics, 'G. D'Annunzio' University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Melissa Alfonsi
- Medical Genetics Unit, SS Annunziata Hospital, Chieti, Italy
| | - Paolo Guanciali-Franchi
- Department of Medical Genetics, 'G. D'Annunzio' University, Chieti, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, SS Annunziata Hospital, Chieti, Italy
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13
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Santana Gonzalez L, Rota IA, Artibani M, Morotti M, Hu Z, Wietek N, Alsaadi A, Albukhari A, Sauka-Spengler T, Ahmed AA. Mechanistic Drivers of Müllerian Duct Development and Differentiation Into the Oviduct. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:605301. [PMID: 33763415 PMCID: PMC7982813 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.605301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The conduits of life; the animal oviducts and human fallopian tubes are of paramount importance for reproduction in amniotes. They connect the ovary with the uterus and are essential for fertility. They provide the appropriate environment for gamete maintenance, fertilization and preimplantation embryonic development. However, serious pathologies, such as ectopic pregnancy, malignancy and severe infections, occur in the oviducts. They can have drastic effects on fertility, and some are life-threatening. Despite the crucial importance of the oviducts in life, relatively little is known about the molecular drivers underpinning the embryonic development of their precursor structures, the Müllerian ducts, and their successive differentiation and maturation. The Müllerian ducts are simple rudimentary tubes comprised of an epithelial lumen surrounded by a mesenchymal layer. They differentiate into most of the adult female reproductive tract (FRT). The earliest sign of Müllerian duct formation is the thickening of the anterior mesonephric coelomic epithelium to form a placode of two distinct progenitor cells. It is proposed that one subset of progenitor cells undergoes partial epithelial-mesenchymal transition (pEMT), differentiating into immature Müllerian luminal cells, and another subset undergoes complete EMT to become Müllerian mesenchymal cells. These cells invaginate and proliferate forming the Müllerian ducts. Subsequently, pEMT would be reversed to generate differentiated epithelial cells lining the fully formed Müllerian lumen. The anterior Müllerian epithelial cells further specialize into the oviduct epithelial subtypes. This review highlights the key established molecular and genetic determinants of the processes involved in Müllerian duct development and the differentiation of its upper segment into oviducts. Furthermore, an extensive genome-wide survey of mouse knockout lines displaying Müllerian or oviduct phenotypes was undertaken. In addition to widely established genetic determinants of Müllerian duct development, our search has identified surprising associations between loss-of-function of several genes and high-penetrance abnormalities in the Müllerian duct and/or oviducts. Remarkably, these associations have not been investigated in any detail. Finally, we discuss future directions for research on Müllerian duct development and oviducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Santana Gonzalez
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ioanna A Rota
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Developmental Immunology Research Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mara Artibani
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Gene Regulatory Networks in Development and Disease Laboratory, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Matteo Morotti
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Zhiyuan Hu
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Wietek
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Abdulkhaliq Alsaadi
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ashwag Albukhari
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tatjana Sauka-Spengler
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Gene Regulatory Networks in Development and Disease Laboratory, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmed A Ahmed
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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14
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Jacquinet A, Boujemla B, Fasquelle C, Thiry J, Josse C, Lumaka A, Brischoux-Boucher E, Dubourg C, David V, Pasquier L, Lehman A, Morcel K, Guerrier D, Bours V. GREB1L variants in familial and sporadic hereditary urogenital adysplasia and Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome. Clin Genet 2020; 98:126-137. [PMID: 32378186 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Congenital uterine anomalies (CUA) may have major impacts on the health and social well-being of affected individuals. Their expressivity is variable, with the most severe end of the spectrum being the absence of any fully or unilaterally developed uterus (aplastic uterus), which is a major feature in Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome (MRKH). So far, etiologies of CUA remain largely unknown. As reports of familial occurrences argue for strong genetic contributors in some cases, we performed whole exome sequencing in nine multiplex families with recurrence of uterine and kidney malformations, a condition called hereditary urogenital adysplasia. Heterozygous likely causative variants in the gene GREB1L were identified in four of these families, confirming GREB1L as an important gene for proper uterine and kidney development. The apparent mode of inheritance was autosomal dominant with incomplete penetrance. The four families included fetuses with uterovaginal aplasia and bilateral renal agenesis, highlighting the importance to investigate GREB1L in such phenotypes. Subsequent sequencing of the gene in a cohort of 68 individuals with MRKH syndrome or uterine malformation (mostly sporadic cases) identified six additional variants of unknown significance. We therefore conclude that heterozygous GREB1L variants contribute to MRKH syndrome and this probably requires additional genetic or environmental factors for full penetrance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeline Jacquinet
- Center for Human Genetics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Liège, Belgium.,Human Genetic Laboratory, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Bouchra Boujemla
- Human Genetic Laboratory, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Corinne Fasquelle
- Center for Human Genetics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jerôme Thiry
- Human Genetic Laboratory, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Claire Josse
- Human Genetic Laboratory, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.,Medical Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire CHU Liege, Liège, Belgium
| | - Aimé Lumaka
- Human Genetic Laboratory, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | - Christèle Dubourg
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) - UMR 6290, Rennes, France.,Department of Molecular Genetics and Genomics, Université de Rennes, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Véronique David
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) - UMR 6290, Rennes, France.,Department of Molecular Genetics and Genomics, Université de Rennes, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Pasquier
- Department of Medical Genetics, CLAD Ouest, Université de Rennes, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Anna Lehman
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital and BC Women's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Karine Morcel
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) - UMR 6290, Rennes, France
| | - Daniel Guerrier
- Univ. Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) - UMR 6290, Rennes, France
| | - Vincent Bours
- Center for Human Genetics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Liège, Belgium.,Human Genetic Laboratory, GIGA Institute, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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15
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Khademi-Shirvan M, Ghorbaninejad M, Hosseini S, Baghaban Eslaminejad M. The Importance of Stem Cell Senescence in Regenerative Medicine. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1288:87-102. [PMID: 32026416 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2020_489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an interesting tool in regenerative medicine and a unique cell-based therapy to treat aging-associated diseases. Successful MSC therapy needs a large-scale cell culture, and requires a prolonged in vitro cell culture that subsequently leads to cell senescence. Administration of senescent MSCs results in inefficient cell differentiation in the clinical setting. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to enhance our knowledge about the aging process and methods to detect cell senescence in order to overcome this challenge. Numerous studies have addressed senescence in various aspects. Here, we review the characteristics of MSCs, how aging affects their features, mechanisms involved in aging of MSCs, and potential approaches to detect MSC senescence in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Khademi-Shirvan
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Ghorbaninejad
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Hosseini
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohamadreza Baghaban Eslaminejad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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16
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Tewes AC, Hucke J, Römer T, Kapczuk K, Schippert C, Hillemanns P, Wieacker P, Ledig S. Sequence Variants in TBX6 Are Associated with Disorders of the Müllerian Ducts: An Update. Sex Dev 2019; 13:35-40. [DOI: 10.1159/000496819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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17
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Jing XY, Huang LY, Zhen L, Han J, Li DZ. Prenatal diagnosis of 17q12 deletion syndrome: a retrospective case series. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2019; 39:323-327. [DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2018.1519693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Yi Jing
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lv-Yin Huang
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li Zhen
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jin Han
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Dong-Zhi Li
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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18
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Backhouse B, Hanna C, Robevska G, van den Bergen J, Pelosi E, Simons C, Koopman P, Juniarto AZ, Grover S, Faradz S, Sinclair A, Ayers K, Tan TY. Identification of Candidate Genes for Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome Using Genomic Approaches. Sex Dev 2018; 13:26-34. [PMID: 30504698 DOI: 10.1159/000494896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a disorder of sex development which affects 1 in 4,500 females and is characterized by agenesis of müllerian structures, including the uterus, cervix, and upper vagina. It can occur in isolation (type 1) or in conjunction with various anomalies (type 2), with a subset of these comprising müllerian, renal, and cervicothoracic abnormalities (MURCS) association. The genetic causes of MRKH have been investigated previously yielding limited results, with massive parallel sequencing becoming increasingly utilized. We sought to identify genetic contributions to MRKH using a combination of microarray and whole exome sequencing (WES) on a cohort of 8 unrelated women with MRKH and MURCS. WES data were analysed using a candidate gene approach to identify potential contributing variants. Microarray analysis identified a 0.6-Mb deletion in the previously implicated 16p11.2 region in a patient with MRKH type 2. WES revealed 16 rare nonsynonymous variants in MRKH candidate genes across the cohort. These included variants in several genes, such as LRP10 and DOCK4, associated with disorders with müllerian anomalies. Further functional studies of these variants will help to delineate their biological significance and expand the genotypic spectrum of MRKH.
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Abstract
The Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome [MIM 277000] is characterised by the absence of a uterus and vagina in otherwise phenotypically normal women with karyotype 46,XX. Clinically, the MRKH can be subdivided into two subtypes: an isolated or type I form can be delineated from a type II form, which is characterised by extragenital malformations. The so-called Müllerian hypoplasia, renal agenesis, cervicothoracic somite dysplasia (MURCS) association can be seen as the most severe phenotypic outcome. The MRKH syndrome affects at least 1 in 4000 to 5000 female new-borns. Although most of the cases are sporadic, familial clustering has also been described, indicating a genetic cause of the disease. However, the mode of inheritance is autosomal-dominant inheritance with reduced penetrance. High-resolution array-CGH and MLPA analysis revealed recurrent aberrations in different chromosomal regions such as TAR susceptibility locus in 1q21.1, chromosomal regions 16p11.2, and 17q12 and 22q11.21 microduplication and -deletion regions in patients with MRKH. Sequential analysis of the genes LHX1, TBX6 and RBM8A, which are located in chromosomal regions 17q12, 16p11.2 and 1q21.1, yielded in the detection of MRKH-associated mutations. In a subgroup of patients with signs of hyperandrogenaemia mutations of WNT4 have been found to be causative. Analysis of another member of the WNT family, WNT9B, resulted in the detection of some causative mutations in MRKH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Ledig
- Institute of Human Genetics, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität, Vesaliusweg 12–14, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Peter Wieacker
- Institute of Human Genetics, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität, Vesaliusweg 12–14, 48149 Münster, Germany
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