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Fuentes ME, Lu X, Flores NM, Hausmann S, Mazur PK. Combined deletion of MEN1, ATRX and PTEN triggers development of high-grade pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8510. [PMID: 38609433 PMCID: PMC11014914 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58874-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors that exhibit an unpredictable and broad spectrum of clinical presentations and biological aggressiveness. Surgical resection is still the only curative therapeutic option for localized PanNET, but the majority of patients are diagnosed at an advanced and metastatic stage with limited therapeutic options. Key factors limiting the development of new therapeutics are the extensive heterogeneity of PanNETs and the lack of appropriate clinically relevant models. In that context, genomic sequencing of human PanNETs revealed recurrent mutations and structural alterations in several tumor suppressors. Here, we demonstrated that combined loss of MEN1, ATRX, and PTEN, tumor suppressors commonly mutated in human PanNETs, triggers the development of high-grade pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in mice. Histopathological evaluation and gene expression analyses of the developed tumors confirm the presence of PanNET hallmarks and significant overlap in gene expression patterns found in human disease. Thus, we postulate that the presented novel genetically defined mouse model is the first clinically relevant immunocompetent high-grade PanNET mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Esmeralda Fuentes
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Xiaoyin Lu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Natasha M Flores
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Simone Hausmann
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Pawel K Mazur
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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2
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Pinto LM, Pailas A, Bondarchenko M, Sharma AB, Neumann K, Rizzo AJ, Jeanty C, Nicot N, Racca C, Graham MK, Naughton C, Liu Y, Chen CL, Meakin PJ, Gilbert N, Britton S, Meeker AK, Heaphy CM, Larminat F, Van Dyck E. DAXX promotes centromeric stability independently of ATRX by preventing the accumulation of R-loop-induced DNA double-stranded breaks. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:1136-1155. [PMID: 38038252 PMCID: PMC10853780 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintaining chromatin integrity at the repetitive non-coding DNA sequences underlying centromeres is crucial to prevent replicative stress, DNA breaks and genomic instability. The concerted action of transcriptional repressors, chromatin remodelling complexes and epigenetic factors controls transcription and chromatin structure in these regions. The histone chaperone complex ATRX/DAXX is involved in the establishment and maintenance of centromeric chromatin through the deposition of the histone variant H3.3. ATRX and DAXX have also evolved mutually-independent functions in transcription and chromatin dynamics. Here, using paediatric glioma and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor cell lines, we identify a novel ATRX-independent function for DAXX in promoting genome stability by preventing transcription-associated R-loop accumulation and DNA double-strand break formation at centromeres. This function of DAXX required its interaction with histone H3.3 but was independent of H3.3 deposition and did not reflect a role in the repression of centromeric transcription. DAXX depletion mobilized BRCA1 at centromeres, in line with BRCA1 role in counteracting centromeric R-loop accumulation. Our results provide novel insights into the mechanisms protecting the human genome from chromosomal instability, as well as potential perspectives in the treatment of cancers with DAXX alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia M Pinto
- DNA Repair and Chemoresistance Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Faculty of Science, Technology and Communication, University of Luxembourg, L-4365 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Discovery & Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Alexandros Pailas
- DNA Repair and Chemoresistance Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Faculty of Science, Technology and Communication, University of Luxembourg, L-4365 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Max Bondarchenko
- DNA Repair and Chemoresistance Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Faculty of Science, Technology and Communication, University of Luxembourg, L-4365 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Abhishek Bharadwaj Sharma
- DNA Repair and Chemoresistance Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Katrin Neumann
- DNA Repair and Chemoresistance Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Anthony J Rizzo
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Céline Jeanty
- DNA Repair and Chemoresistance Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Nathalie Nicot
- Translational Medicine Operations Hub, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Carine Racca
- Institut de Pharmacologie et Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier (UT3), 31077 Toulouse Cedex 4, France
| | - Mindy K Graham
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Catherine Naughton
- Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 1QY, UK
| | - Yaqun Liu
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR3244, Dynamics of Genetic Information, Sorbonne Université, 75248 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Chun-Long Chen
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR3244, Dynamics of Genetic Information, Sorbonne Université, 75248 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Paul J Meakin
- Discovery & Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Nick Gilbert
- Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 1QY, UK
| | - Sébastien Britton
- Institut de Pharmacologie et Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier (UT3), 31077 Toulouse Cedex 4, France
| | - Alan K Meeker
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Christopher M Heaphy
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Florence Larminat
- Institut de Pharmacologie et Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier (UT3), 31077 Toulouse Cedex 4, France
| | - Eric Van Dyck
- DNA Repair and Chemoresistance Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
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3
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Fahrmann JF, Wasylishen AR, Pieterman CRC, Irajizad E, Vykoukal J, Wu R, Dennison JB, Peterson CB, Zhao H, Do KA, Halperin DM, Agarwal SK, Blau JE, Jha S, Rivero JD, Nilubol N, Walter MF, Welch JM, Weinstein LS, Vriens MR, van Leeuwaarde RS, van Treijen MJC, Valk GD, Perrier ND, Hanash SM, Katayama H. Blood-based Proteomic Signatures Associated With MEN1-related Duodenopancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Progression. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:3260-3271. [PMID: 37307230 PMCID: PMC11032251 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad315] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) are predisposed to develop duodenopancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (dpNETs), and metastatic dpNET is the primary cause of disease-related mortality. Presently, there is a paucity of prognostic factors that can reliably identify patients with MEN1-related dpNETS who are at high risk of distant metastasis. In the current study, we aimed to establish novel circulating molecular protein signatures associated with disease progression. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Mass spectrometry-based proteomic profiling was conducted on plasmas procured through an international collaboration between MD Anderson Cancer Center, the National Institutes of Health, and the University Medical Center Utrecht from a cohort of 56 patients with MEN1 [14 with distant metastasis dpNETs (cases) and 42 with either indolent dpNETs or no dpNETs (controls)]. Findings were compared to proteomic profiles generated from serially collected plasmas from a mouse model of Men1-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (Men1fl/flPdx1-CreTg) and control mice (Men1fl/fl). RESULTS A total of 187 proteins were found to be elevated in MEN1 patients with distant metastasis compared to controls, including 9 proteins previously associated with pancreatic cancer and other neuronal proteins. Analyses of mouse plasmas revealed 196 proteins enriched for transcriptional targets of oncogenic MYCN, YAP1, POU5F1, and SMAD that were associated with disease progression in Men1fl/flPdx1-CreTg mice. Cross-species intersection revealed 19 proteins positively associated with disease progression in both human patients and in Men1fl/flPdx1-CreTg mice. CONCLUSIONS Our integrated analyses identified novel circulating protein markers associated with disease progression in MEN1-related dpNET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes F Fahrmann
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Amanda R Wasylishen
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Carolina R C Pieterman
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Section of Surgical Endocrinology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Endocrine Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, the Netherlands
| | - Ehsan Irajizad
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jody Vykoukal
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ranran Wu
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jennifer B Dennison
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Christine B Peterson
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hua Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Kim-Anh Do
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Daniel M Halperin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sunita K Agarwal
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jenny E Blau
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Smita Jha
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jaydira Del Rivero
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, The National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Naris Nilubol
- Surgical Oncology Program, The National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mary F Walter
- Core for Clinical Laboratory Services, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - James M Welch
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lee S Weinstein
- Metabolic Diseases Branch, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Menno R Vriens
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Endocrine Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CX, the Netherlands
- Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, ENETS Center of Excellence, Netherlands Cancer Institute Amsterdam, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrect 1066 CX, the Netherlands
| | - Rachel S van Leeuwaarde
- Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, ENETS Center of Excellence, Netherlands Cancer Institute Amsterdam, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrect 1066 CX, the Netherlands
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Mark J C van Treijen
- Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, ENETS Center of Excellence, Netherlands Cancer Institute Amsterdam, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrect 1066 CX, the Netherlands
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Gerlof D Valk
- Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, ENETS Center of Excellence, Netherlands Cancer Institute Amsterdam, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrect 1066 CX, the Netherlands
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Nancy D Perrier
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Section of Surgical Endocrinology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Samir M Hanash
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hiroyuki Katayama
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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4
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Delaney K, Weiss N, Almouzni G. The cell-cycle choreography of H3 variants shapes the genome. Mol Cell 2023; 83:3773-3786. [PMID: 37734377 PMCID: PMC10621666 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.08.030] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Histone variants provide versatility in the basic unit of chromatin, helping to define dynamic landscapes and cell fates. Maintaining genome integrity is paramount for the cell, and it is intimately linked with chromatin dynamics, assembly, and disassembly during DNA transactions such as replication, repair, recombination, and transcription. In this review, we focus on the family of H3 variants and their dynamics in space and time during the cell cycle. We review the distinct H3 variants' specific features along with their escort partners, the histone chaperones, compiled across different species to discuss their distinct importance considering evolution. We place H3 dynamics at different times during the cell cycle with the possible consequences for genome stability. Finally, we examine how their mutation and alteration impact disease. The emerging picture stresses key parameters in H3 dynamics to reflect on how when they are perturbed, they become a source of stress for genome integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Delaney
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Nuclear Dynamics Unit, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Nicole Weiss
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Nuclear Dynamics Unit, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Geneviève Almouzni
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Nuclear Dynamics Unit, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris, France.
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5
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Sun C, Qi Y, Fowlkes N, Lazic N, Su X, Lozano G, Wasylishen AR. The histone chaperone function of Daxx is dispensable for embryonic development. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:565. [PMID: 37633949 PMCID: PMC10460429 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06089-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Daxx functions as a histone chaperone for the histone H3 variant, H3.3, and is essential for embryonic development. Daxx interacts with Atrx to form a protein complex that deposits H3.3 into heterochromatic regions of the genome, including centromeres, telomeres, and repeat loci. To advance our understanding of histone chaperone activity in vivo, we developed two Daxx mutant alleles in the mouse germline, which abolish the interactions between Daxx and Atrx (DaxxY130A), and Daxx and H3.3 (DaxxS226A). We found that the interaction between Daxx and Atrx is dispensable for viability; mice are born at the expected Mendelian ratio and are fertile. The loss of Daxx-Atrx interaction, however, does cause dysregulated expression of endogenous retroviruses. In contrast, the interaction between Daxx and H3.3, while not required for embryonic development, is essential for postnatal viability. Transcriptome analysis of embryonic tissues demonstrates that this interaction is important for silencing endogenous retroviruses and for maintaining proper immune cell composition. Overall, these results clearly demonstrate that Daxx has both Atrx-dependent and independent functions in vivo, advancing our understanding of this epigenetic regulatory complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Sun
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Genetics and Epigenetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yuan Qi
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Natalie Fowlkes
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Nina Lazic
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Xiaoping Su
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Guillermina Lozano
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Genetics and Epigenetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Amanda R Wasylishen
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
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6
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Werle SD, Ikonomi N, Lausser L, Kestler AMTU, Weidner FM, Schwab JD, Maier J, Buchholz M, Gress TM, Kestler AMR, Kestler HA. A systems biology approach to define mechanisms, phenotypes, and drivers in PanNETs with a personalized perspective. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2023; 9:22. [PMID: 37270586 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-023-00283-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) are a rare tumor entity with largely unpredictable progression and increasing incidence in developed countries. Molecular pathways involved in PanNETs development are still not elucidated, and specific biomarkers are missing. Moreover, the heterogeneity of PanNETs makes their treatment challenging and most approved targeted therapeutic options for PanNETs lack objective responses. Here, we applied a systems biology approach integrating dynamic modeling strategies, foreign classifier tailored approaches, and patient expression profiles to predict PanNETs progression as well as resistance mechanisms to clinically approved treatments such as the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitors. We set up a model able to represent frequently reported PanNETs drivers in patient cohorts, such as Menin-1 (MEN1), Death domain associated protein (DAXX), Tuberous Sclerosis (TSC), as well as wild-type tumors. Model-based simulations suggested drivers of cancer progression as both first and second hits after MEN1 loss. In addition, we could predict the benefit of mTORC1 inhibitors on differentially mutated cohorts and hypothesize resistance mechanisms. Our approach sheds light on a more personalized prediction and treatment of PanNET mutant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke D Werle
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Nensi Ikonomi
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ludwig Lausser
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Faculty of Computer Science, Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt, 85049, Ingolstadt, Germany
| | | | - Felix M Weidner
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Julian D Schwab
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Julia Maier
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Malte Buchholz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Thomas M Gress
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps-University Marburg, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Hans A Kestler
- Institute of Medical Systems Biology, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany.
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7
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Gaspar TB, Jesus TT, Azevedo MT, Macedo S, Soares MA, Martins RS, Leite R, Rodrigues L, Rodrigues DF, Cardoso L, Borges I, Canberk S, Gärtner F, Miranda-Alves L, Lopes JM, Soares P, Vinagre J. Generation of an Obese Diabetic Mouse Model upon Conditional Atrx Disruption. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15113018. [PMID: 37296979 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15113018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrx loss was recently ascertained as insufficient to drive pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (PanNET) formation in mice islets. We have identified a preponderant role of Atrx in the endocrine dysfunction in a Rip-Cre;AtrxKO genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM). To validate the impact of a different Cre-driver line, we used similar methodologies and characterised the Pdx1-Cre;AtrxKO (P.AtrxKO) GEMM to search for PanNET formation and endocrine fitness disruption for a period of up to 24 months. Male and female mice presented different phenotypes. Compared to P.AtrxWT, P.AtrxHOM males were heavier during the entire study period, hyperglycaemic between 3 and 12 mo., and glucose intolerant only from 6 mo.; in contrast, P.AtrxHOM females started exhibiting increased weight gains later (after 6 mo.), but diabetes or glucose intolerance was detected by 3 mo. Overall, all studied mice were overweight or obese from early ages, which challenged the histopathological evaluation of the pancreas and liver, especially after 12 mo. Noteworthily, losing Atrx predisposed mice to an increase in intrapancreatic fatty infiltration (FI), peripancreatic fat deposition, and macrovesicular steatosis. As expected, no animal developed PanNETs. An obese diabetic GEMM of disrupted Atrx is presented as potentially useful for metabolic studies and as a putative candidate for inserting additional tumourigenic genetic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Bordeira Gaspar
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Tito Teles Jesus
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Azevedo
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Macedo
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Alves Soares
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental (LEEx), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Rui Sousa Martins
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP), 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rúben Leite
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic Institute of Porto (IPP), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Lia Rodrigues
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Ferreira Rodrigues
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IBMC), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Inês Borges
- Centro de Diagnóstico Veterinário (Cedivet), 4200-071 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sule Canberk
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Leandro Miranda-Alves
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental (LEEx), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - José Manuel Lopes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João (CHUSJ), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Soares
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Vinagre
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
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8
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Tal A, Aguilera JD, Bren I, Strauss C, Schlesinger S. Differential effect of histone H3.3 depletion on retroviral repression in embryonic stem cells. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:83. [PMID: 37170146 PMCID: PMC10176700 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01499-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integration of retroviruses into the host genome can impair the genomic and epigenomic integrity of the cell. As a defense mechanism, epigenetic modifications on the proviral DNA repress retroviral sequences in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESC). Here, we focus on the histone 3 variant H3.3, which is abundant in active transcription zones, as well as centromeres and heterochromatinized repeat elements, e.g., endogenous retroviruses (ERV). RESULTS To understand the involvement of H3.3 in the epigenetic silencing of retroviral sequences in ESC, we depleted the H3.3 genes in ESC and transduced the cells with GFP-labeled MLV pseudovirus. This led to altered retroviral repression and reduced Trim28 recruitment, which consequently led to a loss of heterochromatinization in proviral sequences. Interestingly, we show that H3.3 depletion has a differential effect depending on which of the two genes coding for H3.3, H3f3a or H3f3b, are knocked out. Depletion of H3f3a resulted in a transient upregulation of incoming retroviral expression and ERVs, while the depletion of H3f3b did not have the same effect and repression was maintained. However, the depletion of both genes resulted in a stable activation of the retroviral promoter. These findings suggest that H3.3 is important for regulating retroviral gene expression in mouse ESC and provide evidence for a distinct function of the two H3.3 genes in this regulation. Furthermore, we show that Trim28 is needed for depositing H3.3 in retroviral sequences, suggesting a functional interaction between Trim28 recruitment and H3.3 loading. CONCLUSIONS Identifying the molecular mechanisms by which H3.3 and Trim28 interact and regulate retroviral gene expression could provide a deeper understanding of the fundamental processes involved in retroviral silencing and the general regulation of gene expression, thus providing new answers to a central question of stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayellet Tal
- Department of Animal Science, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jose David Aguilera
- Department of Animal Science, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Igor Bren
- Department of Animal Science, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Carmit Strauss
- Department of Animal Science, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sharon Schlesinger
- Department of Animal Science, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.
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9
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Torres-Arciga K, Flores-León M, Ruiz-Pérez S, Trujillo-Pineda M, González-Barrios R, Herrera LA. Histones and their chaperones: Adaptive remodelers of an ever-changing chromatinic landscape. Front Genet 2022; 13:1057846. [PMID: 36468032 PMCID: PMC9709290 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1057846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromatin maintenance and remodeling are processes that take place alongside DNA repair, replication, or transcription to ensure the survival and adaptability of a cell. The environment and the needs of the cell dictate how chromatin is remodeled; particularly where and which histones are deposited, thus changing the canonical histone array to regulate chromatin structure and gene expression. Chromatin is highly dynamic, and histone variants and their chaperones play a crucial role in maintaining the epigenetic regulation at different genomic regions. Despite the large number of histone variants reported to date, studies on their roles in physiological processes and pathologies are emerging but continue to be scarce. Here, we present recent advances in the research on histone variants and their chaperones, with a focus on their importance in molecular mechanisms such as replication, transcription, and DNA damage repair. Additionally, we discuss the emerging role they have in transposable element regulation, aging, and chromatin remodeling syndromes. Finally, we describe currently used methods and their limitations in the study of these proteins and highlight the importance of improving the experimental approaches to further understand this epigenetic machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Torres-Arciga
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan)-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (IIBO), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Manuel Flores-León
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (IIBO), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Samuel Ruiz-Pérez
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan)-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (IIBO), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Magalli Trujillo-Pineda
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan)-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (IIBO), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rodrigo González-Barrios
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan)-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (IIBO), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Luis A. Herrera
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan)-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (IIBO), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Mexico City, Mexico
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10
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Gulve N, Su C, Deng Z, Soldan SS, Vladimirova O, Wickramasinghe J, Zheng H, Kossenkov AV, Lieberman PM. DAXX-ATRX regulation of p53 chromatin binding and DNA damage response. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5033. [PMID: 36028493 PMCID: PMC9418176 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32680-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
DAXX and ATRX are tumor suppressor proteins that form a histone H3.3 chaperone complex and are frequently mutated in cancers with the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). Here, we show that DAXX and ATRX knock-out (KO) U87-T cells that have acquired ALT-like features have defects in p53 chromatin binding and DNA damage response. RNA-seq analysis revealed that p53 pathway is among the most perturbed. ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq revealed a genome-wide reduction in p53 DNA-binding and corresponding loss of chromatin accessibility at many p53 response elements across the genome. Both DAXX and ATRX null cells showed a depletion of histone H3.3 and accumulation of γH2AX at many p53 sites, including subtelomeres. These findings indicate that loss of DAXX or ATRX can compromise p53 chromatin binding and p53 DNA damage response in ALT-like cells, providing a link between histone composition, chromatin accessibility and tumor suppressor function of p53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitish Gulve
- The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Chenhe Su
- The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Zhong Deng
- The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | | | | | | | - Hongwu Zheng
- Weill School of Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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11
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Sun C, Estrella JS, Whitley EM, Chau GP, Lozano G, Wasylishen AR. Mouse modeling provides insights into Daxx and Atrx tumor suppressive mechanisms in the endocrine pancreas. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:276356. [PMID: 35976056 PMCID: PMC9438929 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome sequencing has revealed the importance of epigenetic regulators in tumorigenesis. The genes encoding the chromatin remodeling complex DAXX:ATRX are frequently mutated in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs); however, the underlying mechanisms of how mutations contribute to tumorigenesis are only partially understood, in part because of the lack of relevant pre-clinical models. Here we used genetically engineered mouse models combined with environmental stress to evaluate the tumor suppressor functions of Daxx and Atrx in the mouse pancreas. Daxx or Atrx loss, alone or in combination with Men1 loss, do not drive nor accelerate pancreatic neuroendocrine tumorigenesis. Moreover, Daxx loss does not cooperate with environmental stresses (ionizing radiation or pancreatitis) or with the loss of other tumor suppressors (Pten or p53) to promote pancreatic neuroendocrine tumorigenesis. However, due to promiscuity of the Cre promoter used, hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) and osteosarcomas were observed in some instances. Overall, our findings suggest that Daxx and Atrx are not robust tumor suppressors in the endocrine pancreas of mice and indicate the context of a human genome is essential for tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Sun
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Genetics and Epigenetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jeannelyn S Estrella
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Whitley
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Gilda P Chau
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Guillermina Lozano
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Genetics and Epigenetics Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Amanda R Wasylishen
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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12
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Gaspar TB, Macedo S, Sá A, Soares MA, Rodrigues DF, Sousa M, Mendes N, Martins RS, Cardoso L, Borges I, Canberk S, Gärtner F, Miranda-Alves L, Sobrinho-Simões M, Lopes JM, Soares P, Vinagre J. Characterisation of an Atrx Conditional Knockout Mouse Model: Atrx Loss Causes Endocrine Dysfunction Rather Than Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumour. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163865. [PMID: 36010860 PMCID: PMC9406167 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary ATRX and DAXX mutations occur in 30–40% of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNETs), and there are no reports in the literature of any genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM) evaluating the effect of Atrx disruption as a putative driver event on PanNET initiation. We created a novel GEMM with Atrx conditional disruption in β cells. We observed that this genetic alteration, per se, was not tumourigenic, but we reported novel roles of Atrx on endocrine function, which resulted in dysglycaemia and the exacerbation of inflammageing (increased pancreatic inflammation and hepatic steatosis). Abstract ATRX is a chromatin remodeller that maintains telomere homeostasis. Loss of ATRX is described in approximately 10% of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNETs) and associated with poorer prognostic features. Here, we present a genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM) addressing the role of Atrx loss (AtrxKO) in pancreatic β cells, evaluating a large cohort of ageing mice (for up to 24 months (mo.)). Atrx loss did not cause PanNET formation but rather resulted in worsening of ageing-related pancreatic inflammation and endocrine dysfunction in the first year of life. Histopathological evaluation highlighted an exacerbated prevalence and intensity of pancreatic inflammation, ageing features, and hepatic steatosis in AtrxKO mice. Homozygous floxed mice presented hyperglycaemia, increased weights, and glucose intolerance after 6 months, but alterations in insulinaemia were not detected. Floxed individuals presented an improper growth of their pancreatic endocrine fraction that may explain such an endocrine imbalance. A pilot study of BRACO-19 administration to AtrxKO mice resulted in telomere instability, reinforcing the involvement of Atrx in the maintenance of β cell telomere homeostasis. Thereby, a non-obese dysglycaemic GEMM of disrupted Atrx is here presented as potentially useful for metabolic studies and putative candidate for inserting additional tumourigenic genetic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Bordeira Gaspar
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Macedo
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Sá
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Alves Soares
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental (LEEx), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-912, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-905, Brazil
| | - Daniela Ferreira Rodrigues
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology (IBMC), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Sousa
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology (IBMC), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Mendes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Sousa Martins
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP), 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Inês Borges
- Centro de Diagnóstico Veterinário (Cedivet), 4200-071 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sule Canberk
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Leandro Miranda-Alves
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental (LEEx), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-912, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-905, Brazil
| | - Manuel Sobrinho-Simões
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João (CHUSJ), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - José Manuel Lopes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João (CHUSJ), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Soares
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Vinagre
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-225-570-700
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13
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Takaki S, Shimbo T, Ikegami K, Kitayama T, Yamamoto Y, Yamazaki S, Mori S, Tamai K. Generation of a recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa mouse model with patient-derived compound heterozygous mutations. J Transl Med 2022; 102:574-580. [PMID: 35152273 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-022-00735-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is an intractable genetic disease of the skin caused by mutations in the COL7A1 gene. The majority of patients with RDEB harbor compound heterozygous mutations-two distinct mutations on each chromosome-without any apparent hotspots in the COL7A1 mutation pattern. This situation has made it challenging to establish a reliable RDEB mouse model with mutations that accurately mimic the genomic background of patients. Here, we established an RDEB mouse model harboring patient-type mutations in a compound heterozygous manner, using the CRISPR-based genome-editing technology i-GONAD. We selected two mutations, c.5818delC and E2857X, that have frequently been identified in cohorts of Japanese patients with RDEB. These mutations were introduced into the mouse genome at locations corresponding to those identified in patients. Mice homozygous for the 5818delC mutation developed severe RDEB-like phenotypes and died immediately after birth, whereas E2857X homozygous mice did not have a shortened lifespan compared to wild-type mice. Adult E2857X homozygous mice showed hair abnormalities, syndactyly, and nail dystrophy; these findings indicate that E2857X is indeed pathogenic in mice. Mice with the c.5818delC/E2857X compound heterozygous mutation presented an intermediate phenotype between the c.5818delC and E2857X homozygous mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing further clarified that the intrafollicular keratinocytes in c.5818delC/E2857X compound heterozygous mice exhibited abnormalities in cell cycle regulation. The proposed strategy to produce compound heterozygous mice, in addition to the established mouse line, will facilitate research on RDEB pathogenesis to develop a cure for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Takaki
- Department of Stem Cell Therapy Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.,StemRIM Inc., Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takashi Shimbo
- Department of Stem Cell Therapy Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan. .,StemRIM Institute of Regeneration-Inducing Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
| | | | - Tomomi Kitayama
- Department of Stem Cell Therapy Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.,StemRIM Inc., Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Sho Yamazaki
- Department of Stem Cell Therapy Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.,StemRIM Inc., Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shiho Mori
- Department of Stem Cell Therapy Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Katsuto Tamai
- Department of Stem Cell Therapy Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
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14
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Zhang M, Zhao X, Feng X, Hu X, Zhao X, Lu W, Lu X. Histone chaperone HIRA complex regulates retrotransposons in embryonic stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:137. [PMID: 35365225 PMCID: PMC8973876 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02814-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Histone cell cycle regulator (HIRA) complex is an important histone chaperone that mediates the deposition of the H3.3 histone variant onto chromatin independently from DNA synthesis. However, it is still unknown whether it participates in the expression control of retrotransposons and cell fate determination. METHODS We screened the role of HIRA complex members in repressing the expression of retrotransposons by shRNA depletion in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) followed by RT-qPCR. RNA-seq was used to study the expression profiles after depletion of individual HIRA member. RT-qPCR and western blot were used to determine overexpression of HIRA complex members. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-qPCR was used to find the binding of H3.3, HIRA members to chromatin. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to identify the interaction between Hira mutant and Ubn2. ChIP-qPCR was used to identify H3.3 deposition change and western blot of chromatin extract was used to validate the epigenetic change. Bioinformatics analysis was applied for the analysis of available ChIP-seq data. RESULTS We revealed that Hira, Ubn2, and Ubn1 were the main repressors of 2-cell marker retrotransposon MERVL among HIRA complex members. Surprisingly, Ubn2 and Hira targeted different groups of retrotransposons and retrotransposon-derived long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), despite that they partially shared target genes. Furthermore, Ubn2 prevented ESCs to gain a 2-cell like state or activate trophectodermal genes upon differentiation. Mechanistically, Ubn2 and Hira suppressed retrotransposons by regulating the deposition of histone H3.3. Decreased H3.3 deposition, that was associated with the loss of Ubn2 or Hira, caused the reduction of H3K9me2 and H3K9me3, which are known repressive marks of retrotransposons. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings shed light on the distinct roles of HIRA complex members in controlling retrotransposons and cell fate conversion in ESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, People's Republic of China
| | | | - Xuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, People's Republic of China
| | - Wange Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyi Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, People's Republic of China.
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15
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H3.3 safeguards haematopoietic ERV-quilibrium. Nat Cell Biol 2021; 24:7-9. [PMID: 34961795 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-021-00758-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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16
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Impact of Chromatin Dynamics and DNA Repair on Genomic Stability and Treatment Resistance in Pediatric High-Grade Gliomas. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225678. [PMID: 34830833 PMCID: PMC8616465 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs) are the leading cause of mortality in pediatric neuro-oncology, due in great part to treatment resistance driven by complex DNA repair mechanisms. pHGGs have recently been divided into molecular subtypes based on mutations affecting the N-terminal tail of the histone variant H3.3 and the ATRX/DAXX histone chaperone that deposits H3.3 at repetitive heterochromatin loci that are of paramount importance to the stability of our genome. This review addresses the functions of H3.3 and ATRX/DAXX in chromatin dynamics and DNA repair, as well as the impact of mutations affecting H3.3/ATRX/DAXX on treatment resistance and how the vulnerabilities they expose could foster novel therapeutic strategies. Abstract Despite their low incidence, pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs), including diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs), are the leading cause of mortality in pediatric neuro-oncology. Recurrent, mutually exclusive mutations affecting K27 (K27M) and G34 (G34R/V) in the N-terminal tail of histones H3.3 and H3.1 act as key biological drivers of pHGGs. Notably, mutations in H3.3 are frequently associated with mutations affecting ATRX and DAXX, which encode a chaperone complex that deposits H3.3 into heterochromatic regions, including telomeres. The K27M and G34R/V mutations lead to distinct epigenetic reprogramming, telomere maintenance mechanisms, and oncogenesis scenarios, resulting in distinct subgroups of patients characterized by differences in tumor localization, clinical outcome, as well as concurrent epigenetic and genetic alterations. Contrasting with our understanding of the molecular biology of pHGGs, there has been little improvement in the treatment of pHGGs, with the current mainstays of therapy—genotoxic chemotherapy and ionizing radiation (IR)—facing the development of tumor resistance driven by complex DNA repair pathways. Chromatin and nucleosome dynamics constitute important modulators of the DNA damage response (DDR). Here, we summarize the major DNA repair pathways that contribute to resistance to current DNA damaging agent-based therapeutic strategies and describe the telomere maintenance mechanisms encountered in pHGGs. We then review the functions of H3.3 and its chaperones in chromatin dynamics and DNA repair, as well as examining the impact of their mutation/alteration on these processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies targeting DNA repair and epigenetic mechanisms as well as telomere maintenance mechanisms, to improve the treatment of pHGGs.
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Morc3 silences endogenous retroviruses by enabling Daxx-mediated histone H3.3 incorporation. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5996. [PMID: 34650047 PMCID: PMC8516933 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26288-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) comprise a significant portion of mammalian genomes. Although specific ERV loci feature regulatory roles for host gene expression, most ERV integrations are transcriptionally repressed by Setdb1-mediated H3K9me3 and DNA methylation. However, the protein network which regulates the deposition of these chromatin modifications is still incompletely understood. Here, we perform a genome-wide single guide RNA (sgRNA) screen for genes involved in ERV silencing and identify the GHKL ATPase protein Morc3 as a top-scoring hit. Morc3 knock-out (ko) cells display de-repression, reduced H3K9me3, and increased chromatin accessibility of distinct ERV families. We find that the Morc3 ATPase cycle and Morc3 SUMOylation are important for ERV chromatin regulation. Proteomic analyses reveal that Morc3 mutant proteins fail to interact with the histone H3.3 chaperone Daxx. This interaction depends on Morc3 SUMOylation and Daxx SUMO binding. Notably, in Morc3 ko cells, we observe strongly reduced histone H3.3 on Morc3 binding sites. Thus, our data demonstrate Morc3 as a critical regulator of Daxx-mediated histone H3.3 incorporation to ERV regions. Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) compose a significant portion of mammalian genomes; however, how ERVs are regulated is not well known. Here the authors performed a genome-wide sgRNA screen to identify Morc3 as a mediator of ERV silencing. They show Morc3 associates with the H3.3 chaperone Daxx, and that loss of Morc3 leads to reduced H3.3 at ERVs.
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Maharjan CK, Ear PH, Tran CG, Howe JR, Chandrasekharan C, Quelle DE. Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5117. [PMID: 34680266 PMCID: PMC8533967 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are unique, slow-growing malignancies whose molecular pathogenesis is incompletely understood. With rising incidence of pNETs over the last four decades, larger and more comprehensive 'omic' analyses of patient tumors have led to a clearer picture of the pNET genomic landscape and transcriptional profiles for both primary and metastatic lesions. In pNET patients with advanced disease, those insights have guided the use of targeted therapies that inhibit activated mTOR and receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) pathways or stimulate somatostatin receptor signaling. Such treatments have significantly benefited patients, but intrinsic or acquired drug resistance in the tumors remains a major problem that leaves few to no effective treatment options for advanced cases. This demands a better understanding of essential molecular and biological events underlying pNET growth, metastasis, and drug resistance. This review examines the known molecular alterations associated with pNET pathogenesis, identifying which changes may be drivers of the disease and, as such, relevant therapeutic targets. We also highlight areas that warrant further investigation at the biological level and discuss available model systems for pNET research. The paucity of pNET models has hampered research efforts over the years, although recently developed cell line, animal, patient-derived xenograft, and patient-derived organoid models have significantly expanded the available platforms for pNET investigations. Advancements in pNET research and understanding are expected to guide improved patient treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra K. Maharjan
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Po Hien Ear
- Department of Surgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (P.H.E.); (C.G.T.); (J.R.H.)
| | - Catherine G. Tran
- Department of Surgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (P.H.E.); (C.G.T.); (J.R.H.)
| | - James R. Howe
- Department of Surgery, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (P.H.E.); (C.G.T.); (J.R.H.)
| | - Chandrikha Chandrasekharan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Dawn E. Quelle
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
- Department of Pathology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Pastorino L, Grillo F, Albertelli M, Ghiorzo P, Bruno W. Insights into Mechanisms of Tumorigenesis in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910328. [PMID: 34638668 PMCID: PMC8508699 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic studies have identified some of the most relevant genetic players in Neuroendocrine Neoplasm (NEN) tumorigenesis. However, we are still far from being able to draw a model that encompasses their heterogeneity, elucidates the different biological effects consequent to the identified molecular events, or incorporates extensive knowledge of molecular biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Here, we reviewed recent insights in NEN tumorigenesis from selected basic research studies on animal models, highlighting novel players in the intergenic cooperation and peculiar mechanisms including splicing dysregulation, chromatin stability, or cell dedifferentiation. Furthermore, models of tumorigenesis based on composite interactions other than a linear progression of events are proposed, exemplified by the involvement in NEN tumorigenesis of genes regulating complex functions, such as MEN1 or DAXX. Although limited by interspecies differences, animal models have proved helpful for the more in-depth study of every facet of tumorigenesis, showing that the identification of driver mutations is only one of the many necessary steps and that other mechanisms are worth investigating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Pastorino
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (L.P.); (P.G.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genoa, V.le Benedetto XV 6, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Federica Grillo
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genoa, 1632 Genoa, Italy
| | - Manuela Albertelli
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genoa, V.le Benedetto XV 6, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Ghiorzo
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (L.P.); (P.G.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genoa, V.le Benedetto XV 6, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - William Bruno
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (L.P.); (P.G.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DiMI), University of Genoa, V.le Benedetto XV 6, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(01)-0555-7254
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DNA methylation and histone variants in aging and cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 364:1-110. [PMID: 34507780 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aging-related diseases such as cancer can be traced to the accumulation of molecular disorder including increased DNA mutations and epigenetic drift. We provide a comprehensive review of recent results in mice and humans on modifications of DNA methylation and histone variants during aging and in cancer. Accumulated errors in DNA methylation maintenance lead to global decreases in DNA methylation with relaxed repression of repeated DNA and focal hypermethylation blocking the expression of tumor suppressor genes. Epigenetic clocks based on quantifying levels of DNA methylation at specific genomic sites is proving to be a valuable metric for estimating the biological age of individuals. Histone variants have specialized functions in transcriptional regulation and genome stability. Their concentration tends to increase in aged post-mitotic chromatin, but their effects in cancer are mainly determined by their specialized functions. Our increased understanding of epigenetic regulation and their modifications during aging has motivated interventions to delay or reverse epigenetic modifications using the epigenetic clocks as a rapid readout for efficacity. Similarly, the knowledge of epigenetic modifications in cancer is suggesting new approaches to target these modifications for cancer therapy.
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Franklin R, Murn J, Cheloufi S. Cell Fate Decisions in the Wake of Histone H3 Deposition. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:654915. [PMID: 33959610 PMCID: PMC8093820 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.654915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
An expanding repertoire of histone variants and specialized histone chaperone partners showcases the versatility of nucleosome assembly during different cellular processes. Recent research has suggested an integral role of nucleosome assembly pathways in both maintaining cell identity and influencing cell fate decisions during development and normal homeostasis. Mutations and altered expression profiles of histones and corresponding histone chaperone partners are associated with developmental defects and cancer. Here, we discuss the spatiotemporal deposition mechanisms of the Histone H3 variants and their influence on mammalian cell fate during development. We focus on H3 given its profound effect on nucleosome stability and its recently characterized deposition pathways. We propose that differences in deposition of H3 variants are largely dependent on the phase of the cell cycle and cellular potency but are also affected by cellular stress and changes in cell fate. We also discuss the utility of modern technologies in dissecting the spatiotemporal control of H3 variant deposition, and how this could shed light on the mechanisms of cell identity maintenance and lineage commitment. The current knowledge and future studies will help us better understand how organisms employ nucleosome dynamics in health, disease, and aging. Ultimately, these pathways can be manipulated to induce cell fate change in a therapeutic setting depending on the cellular context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reuben Franklin
- Department of Biochemistry, Stem Cell Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Jernej Murn
- Department of Biochemistry, Stem Cell Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Sihem Cheloufi
- Department of Biochemistry, Stem Cell Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
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