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Duro G, Anania M, Zizzo C, Francofonte D, Giacalone I, D’Errico A, Marsana EM, Colomba P. Diagnosis of Fabry Disease Using Alpha-Galactosidase A Activity or LysoGb3 in Blood Fails to Identify Up to Two Thirds of Female Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5158. [PMID: 38791200 PMCID: PMC11121337 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Anderson-Fabry disease is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the GLA gene, which encodes the enzyme α-galactosidase A. The GLA gene is located on the X-chromosome, causing an X-linked pathology: due to lyonization, female patients usually manifest a variable symptomatology, ranging from asymptomatic to severe phenotypes. The confirmation of the clinical diagnosis of Fabry disease, achieved by measuring α-galactosidase A activity, which is usually the first test used, shows differences between male and female patients. This assay is reliable in male patients with causative mutations in the GLA gene, in whom the enzymatic activity is lower than normal values; on the other hand, in female Fabry patients, the enzymatic activity is extremely variable between normal and pathological values. These fluctuations are also found in female patients' blood levels of globotriaosylsphingosine (LysoGb3) for the same reason. In this paper, we present a retrospective study conducted in our laboratories on 827 Fabry patients with causative mutations in the GLA gene. Our results show that 100% of male patients had α-galactosidase A activity below the reference value, while more than 70% of female patients had normal values. It can also be observed that almost half of the female patients with pathogenic mutations in the GLA gene showed normal values of LysoGb3 in blood. Furthermore, in women, blood LysoGb3 values can vary over time, as we show in a clinical case presented in this paper. Both these tests could lead to missed diagnoses of Fabry disease in female patients, so the analysis of the GLA gene represents the main diagnostic test for Fabry disease in women to date.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paolo Colomba
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (M.A.); (C.Z.); (D.F.); (I.G.); (A.D.); (E.M.M.)
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Cabrera Zapata LE, Garcia-Segura LM, Cambiasso MJ, Arevalo MA. Genetics and Epigenetics of the X and Y Chromosomes in the Sexual Differentiation of the Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012288. [PMID: 36293143 PMCID: PMC9603441 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
For many decades to date, neuroendocrinologists have delved into the key contribution of gonadal hormones to the generation of sex differences in the developing brain and the expression of sex-specific physiological and behavioral phenotypes in adulthood. However, it was not until recent years that the role of sex chromosomes in the matter started to be seriously explored and unveiled beyond gonadal determination. Now we know that the divergent evolutionary process suffered by X and Y chromosomes has determined that they now encode mostly dissimilar genetic information and are subject to different epigenetic regulations, characteristics that together contribute to generate sex differences between XX and XY cells/individuals from the zygote throughout life. Here we will review and discuss relevant data showing how particular X- and Y-linked genes and epigenetic mechanisms controlling their expression and inheritance are involved, along with or independently of gonadal hormones, in the generation of sex differences in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas E. Cabrera Zapata
- Instituto de Investigación Médica Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra (INIMEC), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5016, Argentina
- Instituto Cajal (IC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María Julia Cambiasso
- Instituto de Investigación Médica Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra (INIMEC), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5016, Argentina
- Cátedra de Biología Celular, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina
- Correspondence: (M.J.C.); (M.A.A.)
| | - Maria Angeles Arevalo
- Instituto Cajal (IC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.J.C.); (M.A.A.)
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Mechanisms of Choice in X-Chromosome Inactivation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030535. [PMID: 35159344 PMCID: PMC8833938 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Early in development, placental and marsupial mammals harbouring at least two X chromosomes per nucleus are faced with a choice that affects the rest of their lives: which of those X chromosomes to transcriptionally inactivate. This choice underlies phenotypical diversity in the composition of tissues and organs and in their response to the environment, and can determine whether an individual will be healthy or affected by an X-linked disease. Here, we review our current understanding of the process of choice during X-chromosome inactivation and its implications, focusing on the strategies evolved by different mammalian lineages and on the known and unknown molecular mechanisms and players involved.
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X-linked histone H3K27 demethylase Kdm6a regulates sexually dimorphic differentiation of hypothalamic neurons. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:7043-7060. [PMID: 34633482 PMCID: PMC8558156 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03945-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Several X-linked genes are involved in neuronal differentiation and may contribute to the generation of sex dimorphisms in the brain. Previous results showed that XX hypothalamic neurons grow faster, have longer axons, and exhibit higher expression of the neuritogenic gene neurogenin 3 (Ngn3) than XY before perinatal masculinization. Here we evaluated the participation of candidate X-linked genes in the development of these sex differences, focusing mainly on Kdm6a, a gene encoding for an H3K27 demethylase with functions controlling gene expression genome-wide. We established hypothalamic neuronal cultures from wild-type or transgenic Four Core Genotypes mice, a model that allows evaluating the effect of sex chromosomes independently of gonadal type. X-linked genes Kdm6a, Eif2s3x and Ddx3x showed higher expression in XX compared to XY neurons, regardless of gonadal sex. Moreover, Kdm6a expression pattern with higher mRNA levels in XX than XY did not change with age at E14, P0, and P60 in hypothalamus or under 17β-estradiol treatment in culture. Kdm6a pharmacological blockade by GSK-J4 reduced axonal length only in female neurons and decreased the expression of neuritogenic genes Neurod1, Neurod2 and Cdk5r1 in both sexes equally, while a sex-specific effect was observed in Ngn3. Finally, Kdm6a downregulation using siRNA reduced axonal length and Ngn3 expression only in female neurons, abolishing the sex differences observed in control conditions. Altogether, these results point to Kdm6a as a key mediator of the higher axogenesis and Ngn3 expression observed in XX neurons before the critical period of brain masculinization.
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Molecular Mechanisms of Skewed X-Chromosome Inactivation in Female Hemophilia Patients-Lessons from Wide Genome Analyses. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169074. [PMID: 34445777 PMCID: PMC8396640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Hemophilia A (HA) is an X-linked bleeding disorder caused by factor VIII (FVIII) deficiency or dysfunction due to F8 gene mutations. HA carriers are usually asymptomatic because their FVIII levels correspond to approximately half of the concentration found in healthy individuals. However, in rare cases, a carrier may exhibit symptoms of moderate to severe HA primarily due to skewed inactivation of her non-hemophilic X chromosome. Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) patterns in HA carriers, with special emphasis on three karyotypically normal HA carriers presenting with moderate to severe HA phenotype due to skewed XCI, in an attempt to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying skewed XCI in these symptomatic HA carriers. The study was based on the hypothesis that the presence of a pathogenic mutation on the non-hemophilic X chromosome is the cause of extreme inactivation of that X chromosome. Methods: XCI patterns were studied by PCR analysis of the CAG repeat region in the HUMARA gene. HA carriers that demonstrated skewed XCI were further studied by whole-exome sequencing (WES) followed by X chromosome-targeted bioinformatic analysis. Results: All three HA carriers presenting with the moderate to severe HA phenotype due to skewed XCI were found to carry pathogenic mutations on their non-hemophilic X chromosomes. Patient 1 was diagnosed with a frameshift mutation in the PGK1 gene that was associated with familial XCI skewing in three generations. Patient 2 was diagnosed with a missense mutation in the SYTL4 gene that was associated with familial XCI skewing in two generations. Patient 3 was diagnosed with a nonsense mutation in the NKAP gene that was associated with familial XCI skewing in two generations. Conclusion: Our results indicate that the main reason for skewed XCI in our female HA patients was negative selection against cells with a disadvantage caused by an additional deleterious mutation on the silenced X chromosome, thus complicating the phenotype of a monogenic X-linked disease. Based on our study, we are currently offering the X inactivation test to symptomatic hemophilia carriers and plan to expand this approach to symptomatic carriers of other X-linked diseases, which can be further used in pregnancy planning.
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X-chromosome inactivation patterns in females with Fabry disease examined by both ultra-deep RNA sequencing and methylation-dependent assay. Clin Exp Nephrol 2021; 25:1224-1230. [PMID: 34128148 DOI: 10.1007/s10157-021-02099-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fabry disease is an X-linked inherited lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding α-galactosidase A. Males are usually severely affected, while females have a wide range of disease severity. This variability has been assumed to be derived from organ-dependent skewed X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) patterns in each female patient. Previous studies examined this correlation using the classical methylation-dependent method; however, conflicting results were obtained. This study was established to ascertain the existence of skewed XCI in nine females with heterozygous pathogenic variants in the GLA gene and its relationship to the phenotypes. METHODS We present five female patients from one family and four individual female patients with Fabry disease. In all cases, heterozygous pathogenic variants in the GLA gene were detected. The X-chromosome inactivation patterns in peripheral blood leukocytes and cells of urine sediment were determined by both classical methylation-dependent HUMARA assay and ultra-deep RNA sequencing. Fabry Stabilization Index was used to determine the clinical severity. RESULTS Skewed XCI resulting in predominant inactivation of the normal allele was observed only in one individual case with low ⍺-galactosidase A activity. In the remaining cases, no skewing was observed, even in the case with the highest total severity score (99.2%). CONCLUSION We conclude that skewed XCI could not explain the severity of female Fabry disease and is not the main factor in the onset of various clinical symptoms in females with Fabry disease.
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Solomon ER, Caldwell KK, Allan AM. Developmental arsenic exposure is associated with sex differences in the epigenetic regulation of stress genes in the adult mouse frontal cortex. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 391:114920. [PMID: 32061746 PMCID: PMC7948303 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.114920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Solomon
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico HSC, MSC08 4740, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001, United States
| | - Kevin K Caldwell
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico HSC, MSC08 4740, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001, United States
| | - Andrea M Allan
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico HSC, MSC08 4740, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001, United States.
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Khan H, Sureda A, Belwal T, Çetinkaya S, Süntar İ, Tejada S, Devkota HP, Ullah H, Aschner M. Polyphenols in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:647-657. [PMID: 31059841 PMCID: PMC6588481 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In addition to protecting body from infections and diseases, the immune system produces auto-antibodies that can cause complex autoimmune disorders, such as Type I diabetes, primary biliary cirrhosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis, to name a few. In such cases, the immune system fails to recognize between foreign agents and its own body cells. Different factors, such as genetic factors (CD25, STAT4), epigenetic factors (DNA methylation, histone modifications) and environmental factors (xenobiotics, drugs, hormones) trigger autoimmunity. Glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), immunosuppressive and biological agents are currently used to manage autoimmune diseases of different origins. However, complete cure remains elusive. Many dietary and natural products including polyphenols have been widely studied as possible alternative treatment strategies for the management of autoimmune disorders. Polyphenols possess a wide-range of pharmacological and therapeutic properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. As immunomodulatory agents, polyphenols are emerging pharmaceutical tools for management of various autoimmune disorders including vitiligo, ulcerative colitis and multiple sclerosis (MS). Polyphenols activate intracellular pathways such as arachidonic acid dependent pathway, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway and epigenetic modulation, which regulate the host's immune response. This timely review discusses putative points of action of polyphenols in autoimmune diseases, characterizing their efficacy and safety as therapeutic agents in managing autoimmune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, 23200, KPK, Pakistan; University of Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, University of Balearic Islands & CIBEROBN (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition CB12/03/30038), University of the Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Tarun Belwal
- G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sümeyra Çetinkaya
- Biotechnology Research Center of Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, 06330, Yenimahalle, Ankara, Turkey
| | - İpek Süntar
- Department of Pharmacognosy Faculty of Pharmacy Gazi University, 06330 Etiler Ankara, Turkey
| | - Silvia Tejada
- Laboratory of neurophysiology, Biology Department & CIBEROBN (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition CB12/03/30038), University of the Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Hari Prasad Devkota
- School of Pharmacy, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-honmachi, Chuo ku, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan; Program for Leading Graduate Schools, Health life science: Interdisciplinary and Glocal Oriented (HIGO) Program, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Hammad Ullah
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, 23200, KPK, Pakistan
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.
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Elsner VR, Cechinel LR, de Meireles LCF, Bertoldi K, Siqueira IR. Epigenetic marks are modulated by gender and time of the day in the hippocampi of adolescent rats: A preliminary study. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:2160-2163. [PMID: 30323148 PMCID: PMC6199939 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.241467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the involvement of gender in epigenetic machinery in peripheral tissues during the neonatal period has been suggested, the gender-related epigenetic profile of brain areas during the adolescent period is rarely exploited. Furthermore, the influence of time of day on hippocampal acetylation marks has been demonstrated in young adult and aged rats; however, there are no studies reporting epigenetic changes in the adolescent period. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of gender on hippocampal DNA methyltransferase 1 content and histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity of adolescent rats at different time points, specifically early morning and afternoon. Both epigenetic markers increased significantly in the hippocampi of female rats compared to the male group, an indicator of reduced transcriptional activity. In addition, HDAC activity during the early morning was higher compared to afternoon groups in both male and female rats, while DNA methyltransferase 1 content was not altered by the time of day. Our findings demonstrate that hippocampal DNA methylation and histone acetylation status can be influenced by gender during the adolescent period, while the time of the day impacts HDAC activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Rostirola Elsner
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências e Reabilitação, Centro Universitário Metodista-IPA; Curso de Fisioterapia, Centro Universitário Metodista-IPA, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | - Laura Reck Cechinel
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | - Louisiana Carolina Ferreira de Meireles
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | - Karine Bertoldi
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | - Ionara Rodrigues Siqueira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
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Alipour S, Nouri M, Sakhinia E, Samadi N, Roshanravan N, Ghavami A, Khabbazi A. Epigenetic alterations in chronic disease focusing on Behçet's disease: Review. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 91:526-533. [PMID: 28482290 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.04.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE 'Epigenetics' is specified as the inheritable changes in gene expression with no alterations in DNA sequences. Epigenetics is a rapidly overspreading scientific field, and the study of epigenetic regulation in chronic disease is emerging. This study aims to evaluate epigenetic changes including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in inflammatory disease, with focus on Behçet's disease. In this review, first we describe the history and classification of epigenetic changes, and then the role of epigenetic alterations in chronic diseases is explained. METHODS Systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library was conducted for all comparative studies since 2000 to 2015 with the limitations of the English language. RESULTS For a notable period of time, researchers have mainly focused on the epigenetic pathways that are involved in the modulation of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory genes. Recent studies have proposed a central role for chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis of chronic disease, including Behçet's disease. CONCLUSION Studies have been reported on the epigenetic of BD showed the role of alterations in the methylation level of IRS elements; histone modifications such as H3K4me27 and H3K4me3; up regulation of miR-182 and miR-3591-3p; down regulation of miR-155, miR-638 and miR-4488 in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahriar Alipour
- Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran; Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Sakhinia
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nasser Samadi
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Neda Roshanravan
- Nutrition Research Center, School of Nutrition, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abed Ghavami
- Nutrition Research Center, School of Nutrition, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Khabbazi
- Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
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Eroh GD, Clayton FC, Florell SR, Cassidy PB, Chirife A, Marón CF, Valenzuela LO, Campbell MS, Seger J, Rowntree VJ, Leachman SA. Cellular and ultrastructural characterization of the grey-morph phenotype in southern right whales (Eubalaena australis). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171449. [PMID: 28170433 PMCID: PMC5295704 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Southern right whales (SRWs, Eubalena australis) are polymorphic for an X-linked pigmentation pattern known as grey morphism. Most SRWs have completely black skin with white patches on their bellies and occasionally on their backs; these patches remain white as the whale ages. Grey morphs (previously referred to as partial albinos) appear mostly white at birth, with a splattering of rounded black marks; but as the whales age, the white skin gradually changes to a brownish grey color. The cellular and developmental bases of grey morphism are not understood. Here we describe cellular and ultrastructural features of grey-morph skin in relation to that of normal, wild-type skin. Melanocytes were identified histologically and counted, and melanosomes were measured using transmission electron microscopy. Grey-morph skin had fewer melanocytes when compared to wild-type skin, suggesting reduced melanocyte survival, migration, or proliferation in these whales. Grey-morph melanocytes had smaller melanosomes relative to wild-type skin, normal transport of melanosomes to surrounding keratinocytes, and normal localization of melanin granules above the keratinocyte nuclei. These findings indicate that SRW grey-morph pigmentation patterns are caused by reduced numbers of melanocytes in the skin, as well as by reduced amounts of melanin production and/or reduced sizes of mature melanosomes. Grey morphism is distinct from piebaldism and albinism found in other species, which are genetic pigmentation conditions resulting from the local absence of melanocytes, or the inability to synthesize melanin, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy D. Eroh
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Fred C. Clayton
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Scott R. Florell
- Department of Dermatology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Pamela B. Cassidy
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Andrea Chirife
- Programa de Monitoreo Sanitario Ballena Franca Austral, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Carina F. Marón
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Instituto de Conservación de Ballenas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciano O. Valenzuela
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Michael S. Campbell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, United States of America
| | - Jon Seger
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Victoria J. Rowntree
- Programa de Monitoreo Sanitario Ballena Franca Austral, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Instituto de Conservación de Ballenas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Ocean Alliance/Whale Conservation Institute, Gloucester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sancy A. Leachman
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Nieto T, Tomlinson CL, Dretzke J, Bayliss S, Dilworth M, Beggs AD, Tucker O. Epigenetic biomarkers in progression from non-dysplastic Barrett's oesophagus to oesophageal adenocarcinoma: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e013361. [PMID: 27927666 PMCID: PMC5168625 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-013361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Barrett's oesophagus (BO), a metaplastic condition affecting the lower oesophagus due to long-standing gastro-oesophageal reflux and chronic inflammation, is a precursor lesion for oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OADC). There is no clinical test to predict which patients with BO will progress to OADC. The British Society of Gastroenterology recommends endoscopic surveillance of patients with BO. Epigenetic changes have been well characterised in the neoplastic progression of ulcerative colitis to colonic carcinoma, another gastrointestinal cancer associated with chronic inflammation. This systematic review protocol aims to identify and evaluate studies which examine epigenetic biomarkers in BO and their association with progression to OADC. METHODS AND ANALYSIS All prospective and retrospective primary studies, and existing systematic reviews investigating epigenetic markers including DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodelling, micro and non-coding RNAs of all types will be eligible for inclusion. Eligible patients are those over the age of 18 with BO, BO with dysplasia, OADC or unspecified oesophageal cancer. A comprehensive search of bibliographic databases using combinations of text and index words relating to the population, prognostic markers and outcome will be undertaken with no language restrictions. Results will be screened by 2 independent reviewers and data extracted using a standardised proforma. The quality and risk of bias of individual studies will be assessed using the Quality in Prognostic Studies (QUIPS) tool. A narrative synthesis of all evidence will be performed with key findings tabulated. Meta-analysis will be considered where studies and reported outcomes are considered sufficiently homogeneous, both clinically and methodologically. Findings will be interpreted in the context of the quality of included studies. The systematic review will be reported according to PRISMA guidelines. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This is a systematic review of completed studies and no ethical approval is required. Findings from the full systematic review will be submitted for publication and presentation at national and international conferences which will inform future research on risk stratification in patients with BO. REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42016038654.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Nieto
- Department of Surgery, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - C L Tomlinson
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - J Dretzke
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - S Bayliss
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - M Dilworth
- Department of Surgery, Heart of England Foundation Trust and Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - A D Beggs
- Department of Surgery, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - O Tucker
- Department of Surgery, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Surgery, Heart of England Foundation Trust and Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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14
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Abstract
X-chromosome inactivation, which was discovered by Mary Lyon in 1961 results in random silencing of one X chromosome in female mammals. This review is dedicated to Mary Lyon, who passed away last year. She predicted many of the features of X inactivation, for e.g., the existence of an X inactivation center, the role of L1 elements in spreading of silencing and the existence of genes that escape X inactivation. Starting from her published work here we summarize advances in the field.
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15
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Zhao S, Sebire NJ, Kaur B, Seckl MJ, Fisher RA. Molecular genotyping of placental site and epithelioid trophoblastic tumours; female predominance. Gynecol Oncol 2016; 142:501-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2016.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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16
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Oder D, Vergho D, Ertl G, Wanner C, Nordbeck P. Case report of a 45-year old female Fabry disease patient carrying two alpha-galactosidase A gene mutation alleles. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2016; 17:46. [PMID: 27431810 PMCID: PMC4949769 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-016-0309-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background X-chromosomal inheritance patterns and generally rare occurrence of Fabry disease (FD) account for mono-mutational hemizygous male and heterozygous female patients. Female mutation carriers are usually clinically much less severely affected, which has been explained by a suggested mosaicism in cell phenotype due to random allele shutdown. However, clinical evidence is scarce and potential additional effects in female gene carriers, which might account for specific clinical characteristics such as less severe chronic kidney disease, are yet unknown. Case presentation This article reports on a 45 year old female patient carrying the two alpha-galactosidase A gene mutations c.416A > G, p.N139S in exon 3 and c.708G > C, p.W236C in exon 5, but still showing only mild organ manifestations. Conclusion This current case highlights the importance of careful clinical characterization in patients with Fabry disease, who may show additional rare constellations and, therefore, are in need of personalized medicine. The impact of potential additional protective effects exceeding the presence of a non-pathogenic GLA allele in female gene carriers requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Oder
- Department of Internal Medicine I and Comprehensive Heart Failure Center (CHFC), University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Fabry Center for Interdisciplinary Therapy (FAZIT), University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dorothee Vergho
- Department of Internal Medicine I and Comprehensive Heart Failure Center (CHFC), University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Fabry Center for Interdisciplinary Therapy (FAZIT), University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Georg Ertl
- Department of Internal Medicine I and Comprehensive Heart Failure Center (CHFC), University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Fabry Center for Interdisciplinary Therapy (FAZIT), University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Wanner
- Department of Internal Medicine I and Comprehensive Heart Failure Center (CHFC), University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Fabry Center for Interdisciplinary Therapy (FAZIT), University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Peter Nordbeck
- Department of Internal Medicine I and Comprehensive Heart Failure Center (CHFC), University Hospital Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany. .,Fabry Center for Interdisciplinary Therapy (FAZIT), University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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17
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Liu WQ, Li JL, Wang J, He WY, Va L, Sheng XM, Wu BL, Sun XF. Genetic Evaluation of Copy Number Variations, Loss of Heterozygosity, and Single-Nucleotide Variant Levels in Human Embryonic Stem Cells With or Without Skewed X Chromosome Inactivation. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:1779-92. [DOI: 10.1089/scd.2014.0463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Qiang Liu
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory for Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jie-Liang Li
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory for Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Yin He
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory for Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lip Va
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xiao-Ming Sheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bai-Lin Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xiao-Fang Sun
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory for Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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18
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Rangasamy S, D’Mello SR, Narayanan V. Epigenetics, autism spectrum, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurotherapeutics 2013; 10:742-56. [PMID: 24104594 PMCID: PMC3805864 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-013-0227-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic marks are modifications of DNA and histones. They are considered to be permanent within a single cell during development, and are heritable across cell division. Programming of neurons through epigenetic mechanisms is believed to be critical in neural development. Disruption or alteration in this process causes an array of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Recent studies have provided evidence for an altered epigenetic landscape in ASDs and demonstrated the central role of epigenetic mechanisms in their pathogenesis. Many of the genes linked to the ASDs encode proteins that are involved in transcriptional regulation and chromatin remodeling. In this review we highlight selected neurodevelopmental disorders in which epigenetic dysregulation plays an important role. These include Rett syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Angelman syndrome, and Kabuki syndrome. For each of these disorders, we discuss how advances in our understanding of epigenetic mechanisms may lead to novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sampathkumar Rangasamy
- />Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85013 USA
| | | | - Vinodh Narayanan
- />Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85013 USA
- />Developmental Neurogenetic Laboratory, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ 85013 USA
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19
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Manoukian S, Verderio P, Tabano S, Colapietro P, Pizzamiglio S, Grati FR, Calvello M, Peissel B, Burn J, Pensotti V, Allemani C, Sirchia SM, Radice P, Miozzo M. X chromosome inactivation pattern in BRCA gene mutation carriers. Eur J Cancer 2013; 49:1136-41. [PMID: 23146957 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2012.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/08/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
An association of preferential X chromosome inactivation (XCI) with BRCA gene status and breast/ovarian cancer risk has been reported. We evaluated XCI in a large group of BRCA mutation carriers compared to non-carriers and investigated associations between preferential XCI (⩾90:10) and age, mutated gene, cancer development and chemotherapy. XCI was analysed by human androgen receptor (HUMARA) assay and pyrosequencing in 437 BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers and 445 age-matched controls. The distribution of XCI patterns in the two groups was compared by logistic regression analysis. The association between preferential XCI and selected variables was investigated in both univariate and multivariate fashion. In univariate analyses preferential XCI was not significantly associated with the probability of being a BRCA mutation carrier, nor with cancer status, whereas chemotherapeutic regime and age both showed a significant association. In multivariate analysis only age maintained significance (odds ratio, 1.056; 95% confidence interval, 1.016-1.096). Our findings do not support the usefulness of XCI analysis for the identification of BRCA mutation carriers and cancer risk assessment. The increasing preferential XCI frequency with ageing and the association with chemotherapy justify extending the investigation to other categories of female cancer patients to identify possible X-linked loci implicated in cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siranoush Manoukian
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Preventive and Predictive Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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20
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Basic concepts of epigenetics. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:607-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.01.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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21
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Wilhelm M, Dahl E, Alexander H, Brähler E, Stöbel-Richter Y. Ethical attitudes of German specialists in reproductive medicine and legal regulation of preimplantation sex selection in Germany. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56390. [PMID: 23437121 PMCID: PMC3577788 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because of its ethical and social implications, preimplantation sex selection is frequently the subject of debates. METHODS In 2006, we surveyed specialists in reproductive medicine in Germany using an anonymous questionnaire, including sociodemographic data and questions regarding ethical problems occurring in the practice of reproductive medicine. Most questions focused on preimplantation sex selection, including 10 case vignettes, since these enabled us to describe the most difficult and ethically controversial situations. This is the first survey among specialists in reproductive medicine regarding this topic in Germany. RESULTS 114 specialists in reproductive medicine participated, 72 males (63%) and 42 females (37%), average age was 48 years (age range 29-67 years). The majority of respondents (79%) favoured a regulation that limits the use of preimplantation sex selection only for medical reasons, such as X-linked diseases (including 18%: summoning an ethics commission for every case). A minority of 18% approved of the use of sex selection for non-medical reasons (4% generally and further 14% for family balancing). 90% had received obvious requests from patients. The highest approval (46%) got the counselling guideline against a preimplantation sex selection and advising a normal pregnancy, if preimplantation sex selection would be allowed in Germany. The majority (67%) was opposed the personal use of preimplantation sex selection for non-medical reasons, but would think about it in medical cases. In opposite to woman, 14% of the men were in favour of personal use for non-medical reasons (p=0,043). 25% of specialists in reproductive medicine feared that an allowance of preimplantation sex selection would cause a shift in the sex ratio. CONCLUSIONS The majority of German specialists in reproductive medicine opposes preimplantation sex selection for non-medical reasons while recommending preimplantation sex selection for medical reasons, e.g. X-linked diseases like haemophilia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Wilhelm
- Pediatrics 5 (Oncology, Hematology, Immunology; Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, General Pediatrics), Klinikum Stuttgart - Olgahospital, Stuttgart, Germany.
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22
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Chen H, Monte E, Parvatiyar MS, Rosa-Garrido M, Franklin S, Vondriska TM. Structural considerations for chromatin state models with transcription as a functional readout. FEBS Lett 2012; 586:3548-54. [PMID: 22940112 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2012.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2012] [Revised: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Lacking from the rapidly evolving field of chromatin regulation is a discrete model of chromatin states. We propose that each state in such a model should meet two conditions: a structural component and a quantifiable effect on transcription. The practical benefits to the field of a model with greater than two states (including one with six states, as described herein) would be to improve interpretation of data from disparate organ systems, to reflect temporal and developmental dynamics and to integrate the, at present, conceptually and experimentally disparate analyses of individual genetic loci (in vitro or using single gene approaches) and genome-wide features (including ChlP-seq, chromosomal capture and mRNA expression via microarrays/sequencing).
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Affiliation(s)
- Haodong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, United States
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23
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Nonrandom X chromosome inactivation is influenced by multiple regions on the murine X chromosome. Genetics 2012; 192:1095-107. [PMID: 22887817 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.112.144477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
During the development of female mammals, one of the two X chromosomes is inactivated, serving as a dosage-compensation mechanism to equalize the expression of X-linked genes in females and males. While the choice of which X chromosome to inactivate is normally random, X chromosome inactivation can be skewed in F1 hybrid mice, as determined by alleles at the X chromosome controlling element (Xce), a locus defined genetically by Cattanach over 40 years ago. Four Xce alleles have been defined in inbred mice in order of the tendency of the X chromosome to remain active: Xce(a) < Xce(b) < Xce(c) < Xce(d). While the identity of the Xce locus remains unknown, previous efforts to map sequences responsible for the Xce effect in hybrid mice have localized the Xce to candidate regions that overlap the X chromosome inactivation center (Xic), which includes the Xist and Tsix genes. Here, we have intercrossed 129S1/SvImJ, which carries the Xce(a) allele, and Mus musculus castaneus EiJ, which carries the Xce(c) allele, to generate recombinant lines with single or double recombinant breakpoints near or within the Xce candidate region. In female progeny of 129S1/SvImJ females mated to recombinant males, we have measured the X chromosome inactivation ratio using allele-specific expression assays of genes on the X chromosome. We have identified regions, both proximal and distal to Xist/Tsix, that contribute to the choice of which X chromosome to inactivate, indicating that multiple elements on the X chromosome contribute to the Xce.
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24
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X-inactivation in Fabry disease. Gene 2012; 505:266-8. [PMID: 22710134 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2012] [Revised: 05/29/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fabry disease is one of three X-linked lysosomal disorders. Because of X-chromosome inactivation (XCI), wherein there is (random) transcriptional silencing of one of the X-chromosomes in each female cell, females are mosaic for the expression of (some) X-linked genes. Thus, based on penetrance and expression, some females heterozygous for Fabry disease are symptomatic but not to the same degree as hemizygous males. The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether skewed X-inactivation favoring the mutant α-galactosidase A allele exists in our cohort of female heterozygotes of Fabry disease. METHOD All patients were evaluated by physical examination and ascribed disease-specific severity sub-scores for each of the four categories (cardiac, renal, neurological, general) and a total score using the Mainz Severity Score Index (MSSI). Blood samples were drawn for enzymatic activity of α-galactosidase A and for DNA extraction for analysis for α-galactosidase A mutations. XCI ratios were determined from peripheral blood leukocyte samples. The X-chromosome inactivation ratio was determined in each heterozygote. RESULTS Of 77 samples, only 18.2% were highly skewed (80/20). Only 14.3% of samples with nonsense mutations were highly skewed. There were no correlations between the XCI ratios and age, enzymatic activity of α-galactosidase A, MSSI sub-scores or total score, or with the clinical signs of cardiac involvement, neuropathic pain, or proteinuria. CONCLUSION These findings are comparable with others in Fabry disease, i.e., essentially the same as seen in normal non-elderly female population, raising the question of the mechanism underlying symptomatic phenotypic expression in heterozygous females with Fabry disease.
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25
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Sporadic male patients with intellectual disability: contribution of X-chromosome copy number variants. Eur J Med Genet 2012; 55:577-85. [PMID: 22659343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2012.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2012] [Revised: 05/19/2012] [Accepted: 05/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Genome-wide array comparative genome hybridization has become the first in line diagnostic tool in the clinical work-up of patients presenting with intellectual disability. As a result, chromosome X-copy number variations are frequently being detected in routine diagnostics. We retrospectively reviewed genome wide array-CGH data in order to determine the frequency and nature of chromosome X-copy number variations (X-CNV) in a cohort of 2222 sporadic male patients with intellectual disability (ID) referred to us for diagnosis. In this cohort, 68 males were found to have at least one X-CNV (3.1%). However, correct interpretation of causality remains a challenging task, and is essential for proper counseling, especially when the CNV is inherited. On the basis of these data, earlier experience and literature data we designed and propose an algorithm that can be used to evaluate the clinical relevance of X-CNVs detected in sporadic male ID patients. Applied to our cohort, 19 male ID patients (0.85%) were found to carry a (likely) pathogenic X-CNV.
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26
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Martinet N, Michel BY, Bertrand P, Benhida R. Small molecules DNAmethyltransferasesinhibitors. MEDCHEMCOMM 2012. [DOI: 10.1039/c1md00194a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
This review describes current knowledge concerning DNA methyltransferases (DNMT) biology and the two main classes of DNMT inhibtors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Martinet
- Laboratoire de Chimie des Molécules Bioactives et des Arômes
- UMR 6001 CNRS
- Institut de Chimie de Nice
- Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis
- 06108 Nice Cedex 2
| | - Benoît Y. Michel
- Laboratoire de Chimie des Molécules Bioactives et des Arômes
- UMR 6001 CNRS
- Institut de Chimie de Nice
- Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis
- 06108 Nice Cedex 2
| | - Philippe Bertrand
- Laboratory of reactivity and synthesis of natural substances
- UMR 6514 Poitiers
- France
| | - Rachid Benhida
- Laboratoire de Chimie des Molécules Bioactives et des Arômes
- UMR 6001 CNRS
- Institut de Chimie de Nice
- Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis
- 06108 Nice Cedex 2
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28
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Abstract
In humans, sexual dimorphism is associated with the presence of two X chromosomes in the female, whereas males possess only one X and a small and largely degenerate Y chromosome. How do men cope with having only a single X chromosome given that virtually all other chromosomal monosomies are lethal? Ironically, or even typically many might say, women and more generally female mammals contribute most to the job by shutting down one of their two X chromosomes at random. This phenomenon, called X-inactivation, was originally described some 50 years ago by Mary Lyon and has captivated an increasing number of scientists ever since. The fascination arose in part from the realisation that the inactive X corresponded to a dense heterochromatin mass called the “Barr body” whose number varied with the number of Xs within the nucleus and from the many intellectual questions that this raised: How does the cell count the X chromosomes in the nucleus and inactivate all Xs except one? What kind of molecular mechanisms are able to trigger such a profound, chromosome-wide metamorphosis? When is X-inactivation initiated? How is it transmitted to daughter cells and how is it reset during gametogenesis? This review retraces some of the crucial findings, which have led to our current understanding of a biological process that was initially considered as an exception completely distinct from conventional regulatory systems but is now viewed as a paradigm “par excellence” for epigenetic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Morey
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Génétique Moléculaire Murine, CNRS, URA2578, Paris, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Philip Avner
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Génétique Moléculaire Murine, CNRS, URA2578, Paris, France
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