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Ou JC, Feng YH, Chen KY, Chiang YH, Hsu TI, Wu CC. Correlation of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 With Cognitive Functions in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Patients. Neurotrauma Rep 2023; 4:751-760. [PMID: 38028275 PMCID: PMC10659011 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2023.0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a prevalent health concern with variable recovery trajectories, necessitating reliable prognostic markers. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) emerges as a potential candidate because of its role in cellular growth, repair, and neuroprotection. However, limited studies investigate IGF-1 as a prognostic marker in mTBI patients. This study aimed to explore the correlation of IGF-1 with cognitive functions assessed using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) in mTBI patients. We analyzed data from 295 mTBI and 200 healthy control participants, assessing demographic characteristics, injury causes, and IGF-1 levels. Cognitive functions were evaluated using the WCST. Correlation analyses and regression models were used to investigate the associations between IGF-1 levels, demographic factors, and WCST scores. Significant differences were observed between mTBI and control groups in the proportion of females and average education years. Falls and traffic accidents were identified as the primary causes of mTBI. The mTBI group demonstrated worse cognitive outcomes on the WCST, except for the "Learning to Learn" index. Correlation analyses revealed significant relationships between IGF-1 levels, demographic factors, and specific WCST scores. Regression models demonstrated that IGF-1, age, and education years significantly influenced various WCST scores, suggesting their roles as potential prognostic markers for cognitive outcomes in mTBI patients. We provide valuable insights into the potential correlation of IGF-1 with cognitive functions in mTBI patients, particularly in tasks requiring cognitive flexibility and problem solving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Chi Ou
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Kai-Yun Chen
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- PhD Program in Medical Neuroscience, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- International Master Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Hsiao Chiang
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-I Hsu
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- PhD Program in Medical Neuroscience, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- International Master Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- National Health Research Institutes, Taipei, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- PhD Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Che Wu
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Arjunan A, Sah DK, Woo M, Song J. Identification of the molecular mechanism of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1): a promising therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases associated with metabolic syndrome. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:16. [PMID: 36691085 PMCID: PMC9872444 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-00966-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are accompanied by neuronal degeneration and glial dysfunction, resulting in cognitive, psychomotor, and behavioral impairment. Multiple factors including genetic, environmental, metabolic, and oxidant overload contribute to disease progression. Recent evidences suggest that metabolic syndrome is linked to various neurodegenerative diseases. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is known to be accompanied by symptoms such as hyperglycemia, abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and hypertension. Despite advances in knowledge about the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders, effective treatments to combat neurodegenerative disorders caused by MetS have not been developed to date. Insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) deficiency has been associated with MetS-related pathologies both in-vivo and in-vitro. IGF-1 is essential for embryonic and adult neurogenesis, neuronal plasticity, neurotropism, angiogenesis, metabolic function, and protein clearance in the brain. Here, we review the evidence for the potential therapeutic effects of IGF-1 in the neurodegeneration related to metabolic syndrome. We elucidate how IGF-1 may be involved in molecular signaling defects that occurs in MetS-related neurodegenerative disorders and highlight the importance of IGF-1 as a potential therapeutic target in MetS-related neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Arjunan
- grid.14005.300000 0001 0356 9399Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanam-Do 58128 Republic of Korea
| | - Dhiraj Kumar Sah
- grid.14005.300000 0001 0356 9399Department of Biochemistry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, 58128 Republic of Korea ,grid.14005.300000 0001 0356 9399BioMedical Sciences Graduate Program (BMSGP), Chonnam National University, 264 Seoyangro, Hwasun, 58128 Republic of Korea
| | - Minna Woo
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Health Network and and Banting and Best Diabetes Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Juhyun Song
- grid.14005.300000 0001 0356 9399Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeollanam-Do 58128 Republic of Korea ,grid.14005.300000 0001 0356 9399BioMedical Sciences Graduate Program (BMSGP), Chonnam National University, 264 Seoyangro, Hwasun, 58128 Republic of Korea
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3
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Clark HR, McKenney C, Livingston NM, Gershman A, Sajjan S, Chan IS, Ewald AJ, Timp W, Wu B, Singh A, Regot S. Epigenetically regulated digital signaling defines epithelial innate immunity at the tissue level. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1836. [PMID: 33758175 PMCID: PMC7988009 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22070-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To prevent damage to the host or its commensal microbiota, epithelial tissues must match the intensity of the immune response to the severity of a biological threat. Toll-like receptors allow epithelial cells to identify microbe associated molecular patterns. However, the mechanisms that mitigate biological noise in single cells to ensure quantitatively appropriate responses remain unclear. Here we address this question using single cell and single molecule approaches in mammary epithelial cells and primary organoids. We find that epithelial tissues respond to bacterial microbe associated molecular patterns by activating a subset of cells in an all-or-nothing (i.e. digital) manner. The maximum fraction of responsive cells is regulated by a bimodal epigenetic switch that licenses the TLR2 promoter for transcription across multiple generations. This mechanism confers a flexible memory of inflammatory events as well as unique spatio-temporal control of epithelial tissue-level immune responses. We propose that epigenetic licensing in individual cells allows for long-term, quantitative fine-tuning of population-level responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen R Clark
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Oncology Department, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Biochemistry, Cellular, and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Connor McKenney
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Oncology Department, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Biochemistry, Cellular, and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nathan M Livingston
- The Biochemistry, Cellular, and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ariel Gershman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Biochemistry, Cellular, and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Seema Sajjan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Oncology Department, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Isaac S Chan
- Oncology Department, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrew J Ewald
- Oncology Department, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Winston Timp
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bin Wu
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Abhyudai Singh
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Sergi Regot
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Oncology Department, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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4
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Camsari C, Folger JK, Rajput SK, McGee D, Latham KE, Smith GW. Transgenerational Effects of Periconception Heavy Metal Administration on Adipose Weight and Glucose Homeostasis in Mice at Maturity. Toxicol Sci 2020; 168:610-619. [PMID: 30629257 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that periconception maternal administration (2 mg/kg body weight each) of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) plus methylmercury (II) chloride (CH3HgCl) impaired glucose homeostasis and increased body weights and abdominal adipose tissue weight of male offspring in the F1 generation. However, transgenerational effects of this exposure have not been studied. Therefore, the effects of periconception Cd+Hg administration on indices of chronic diseases at adulthood in F2-F4 generations were examined. Male and female progeny of Cd+Hg periconceptionally treated females, and offspring of vehicle control females were bred with naïve CD1 mice to obtain F2 offspring, with additional crosses as above to the F4 generation (F1-F4 animals were not administered Cd+Hg). Birth weights and litter size were similar in all generations. Indices of impaired glucose homeostasis were observed in matrilineally descended F2 male offspring, including reduced glucose tolerance, along with increased basal phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) at serine 307 suggesting altered insulin signaling. Reduced glucose tolerance was also seen in F4 males. Increased body weight and/or abdominal adiposity were observed through the F4 generation in males descended matrilineally from the treated female progenitors. Patrilineally derived F2 females displayed reduced glucose tolerance. Females (F2) patrilineally and matrilineally derived displayed significant kidney enlargement. Periconception administration of cadmium and mercury caused persistent transgenerational effects in offspring through the F4 generation in the absence of continued toxicant exposure, with persistent transgenerational effects inherited specifically through the matrilineal germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cagri Camsari
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics.,Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824.,Innovative Food Technologies Development Application and Research Center, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Bolu 14030, Turkey
| | - Joseph K Folger
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics.,Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Sandeep K Rajput
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics.,Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Devin McGee
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics.,Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Keith E Latham
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824.,Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - George W Smith
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics.,Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
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5
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HMGA1 Modulates Gene Transcription Sustaining a Tumor Signalling Pathway Acting on the Epigenetic Status of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081105. [PMID: 31382504 PMCID: PMC6721465 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromatin accessibility plays a critical factor in regulating gene expression in cancer cells. Several factors, including the High Mobility Group A (HMGA) family members, are known to participate directly in chromatin relaxation and transcriptional activation. The HMGA1 oncogene encodes an architectural chromatin transcription factor that alters DNA structure and interacts with transcription factors favouring their landing onto transcription regulatory sequences. Here, we provide evidence of an additional mechanism exploited by HMGA1 to modulate transcription. We demonstrate that, in a triple-negative breast cancer cellular model, HMGA1 sustains the action of epigenetic modifiers and in particular it positively influences both histone H3S10 phosphorylation by ribosomal protein S6 kinase alpha-3 (RSK2) and histone H2BK5 acetylation by CREB-binding protein (CBP). HMGA1, RSK2, and CBP control the expression of a set of genes involved in tumor progression and epithelial to mesenchymal transition. These results suggest that HMGA1 has an effect on the epigenetic status of cancer cells and that it could be exploited as a responsiveness predictor for epigenetic therapies in triple-negative breast cancers.
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Yoza BK, Hu JYQ, McCall CE. Inhibition of histone deacetylation enhances endotoxin-stimulated transcription but does not reverse endotoxin tolerance. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/09680519020080020401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Covalent modification of histones and the subsequent remodeling of chromatin have emerged as important mechanisms in regulating gene expression. In particular, recent identification of the enzyme families responsible for the steady-state balance of histone acetylation has served to redefine our understanding of these modifications as fundamental biochemical processes regulating transcription. Current evidence suggests that histone acetylation correlates positively with gene activation, while histone deacetylation acts to repress transcription. In this study, we examined the role of histone modification in the inflammatory response to endotoxin. We focused on the endotoxin-stimulated expression of the interleukin-1β promoter and tested the hypotheses that persistent histone deacetylation was responsible for the decreased expression of this promoter observed after prolonged exposure to endotoxin, a manifestation of a phenomenon known as endotoxin tolerance. We found that histone deacetylase inhibitors enhanced endotoxin-stimulated transcription; however, deacetylation inhibitors could neither block the development of tolerance nor restore endotoxin sensitivity in a tolerant cell. Deacetylase inhibitors could not restore LPS-mediated transcription in tolerant cells. These results show that histone acetylation/deacetylation regulates, at least in part, the endotoxin-induced expression of inflammatory genes and that repressed transcription observed in endotoxin tolerance is not caused by enhanced activity of histone deacetylases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara K. Yoza
- Department of Medicine, Section on Infectious Diseases, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA,
| | - Jean Y.-Q. Hu
- Department of Medicine, Section on Infectious Diseases, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Charles E. McCall
- Department of Medicine, Section on Infectious Diseases, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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7
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Sun WL, Quizon PM, Zhu J. Molecular Mechanism: ERK Signaling, Drug Addiction, and Behavioral Effects. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2015; 137:1-40. [PMID: 26809997 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2015.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Addiction to psychostimulants has been considered as a chronic psychiatric disorder characterized by craving and compulsive drug seeking and use. Over the past two decades, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that repeated drug exposure causes long-lasting neurochemical and cellular changes that result in enduring neuroadaptation in brain circuitry and underlie compulsive drug consumption and relapse. Through intercellular signaling cascades, drugs of abuse induce remodeling in the rewarding circuitry that contributes to the neuroplasticity of learning and memory associated with addiction. Here, we review the role of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase, and its related intracellular signaling pathways in drug-induced neuroadaptive changes that are associated with drug-mediated psychomotor activity, rewarding properties and relapse of drug seeking behaviors. We also discuss the neurobiological and behavioral effects of pharmacological and genetic interferences with ERK-associated molecular cascades in response to abused substances. Understanding the dynamic modulation of ERK signaling in response to drugs may provide novel molecular targets for therapeutic strategies to drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Lun Sun
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, South Carolina College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Pamela M Quizon
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, South Carolina College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, South Carolina College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA.
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8
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Gao W, Pan B, Liu L, Huang X, Liu Z, Tian J. Alcohol exposure increases the expression of cardiac transcription factors through ERK1/2-mediated histone3 hyperacetylation in H9c2 cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2015; 466:670-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.09.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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9
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Takada I, Yogiashi Y, Makishima M. The ribosomal S6 kinase inhibitor BI-D1870 ameliorated experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice. Immunobiology 2015; 221:188-92. [PMID: 26386981 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2015.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) caused by the infiltration of TH1 and TH17 cells into the CNS. Ribosomal S6 kinase 2 (RSK2; RPS6KA3) regulates TH17 differentiation by attenuating RORγt transcriptional activities and IL-17A production. The pan-RSK inhibitor BI-D1870 also inhibits TH17 differentiation, but the effect of BI-D1870 in vivo remains unclear. Here, we generated mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and treated them with BI-D1870. BI-D1870 administration protected mice from EAE by reducing the infiltration of TH1 and TH17 cells into the CNS and decreasing mRNA levels of Ccr6 in TH17 cells. These results suggest that RSK inhibition is a promising strategy for the treatment of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ichiro Takada
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nihon University, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan; School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
| | - Yoshiko Yogiashi
- School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Makoto Makishima
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nihon University, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
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10
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Nakai N, Otsuka S, Myung J, Takumi T. Autism spectrum disorder model mice: Focus on copy number variation and epigenetics. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2015; 58:976-84. [DOI: 10.1007/s11427-015-4891-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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11
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Ravi B, Kannan M. Epigenetics in the nervous system: An overview of its essential role. INDIAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN GENETICS 2014; 19:384-91. [PMID: 24497700 PMCID: PMC3897130 DOI: 10.4103/0971-6866.124357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The role that epigenetic mechanisms play in phenomena such as cellular differentiation during embryonic development, X chromosome inactivation, and cancers is well-characterized. Epigenetic mechanisms have been implicated to be the mediators of several functions in the nervous system such as in neuronal-glial differentiation, adult neurogenesis, the modulation of neural behavior and neural plasticity, and also in higher brain functions like cognition and memory. Its particular role in explaining the importance of early life/social experiences on adult behavioral patterns has caught the attention of scientists and has spawned the exciting new field of behavioral epigenetics which may hold the key to explaining many complex behavioral paradigms. Epigenetic deregulation is known to be central in the etiology of several neuropsychiatric disorders which underscore the importance of understanding these mechanisms more thoroughly to elucidate novel and effective therapeutic approaches. In this review we present an overview of the findings which point to the essential role played by epigenetics in the vertebrate nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavya Ravi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, Rajasthan, India
| | - Manoj Kannan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, Rajasthan, India
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12
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Dragon S, Hirst SJ, Lee TH, Gounni AS. IL-17A mediates a selective gene expression profile in asthmatic human airway smooth muscle cells. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2014; 50:1053-63. [PMID: 24393021 PMCID: PMC4068909 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2012-0267oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells are thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of allergic asthma by orchestrating and perpetuating airway inflammation and remodeling responses. In this study, we evaluated the IL-17RA signal transduction and gene expression profile in ASM cells from subjects with mild asthma and healthy individuals. Human primary ASM cells were treated with IL-17A and probed by the Affymetrix GeneChip array, and gene targets were validated by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. Genomic analysis underlined the proinflammatory nature of IL-17A, as multiple NF-κB regulatory factors and chemokines were induced in ASM cells. Transcriptional regulators consisting of primary response genes were overrepresented and displayed dynamic expression profiles. IL-17A poorly enhanced IL-1β or IL-22 gene responses in ASM cells from both subjects with mild asthma and healthy donors. Interestingly, protein modifications to the NF-κB regulatory network were not observed after IL-17A stimulation, although oscillations in IκBε expression were detected. ASM cells from subjects with mild asthma up-regulated more genes with greater overall variability in response to IL-17A than from healthy donors. Finally, in response to IL-17A, ASM cells displayed rapid activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/ribosomal S6 kinase signaling pathway and increased nuclear levels of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Taken together, our results suggest that IL-17A mediated modest gene expression response, which, in cooperation with the NF-κB signaling network, may regulate the gene expression profile in ASM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Dragon
- Department of Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Stuart J. Hirst
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and
| | - Tak H. Lee
- Division of Asthma, Allergy, and Lung Biology, King’s College London, Medical Research Council and Asthma United Kingdom Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, United Kingdom
| | - Abdelilah S. Gounni
- Department of Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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13
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CREB phosphorylation at Ser133 regulates transcription via distinct mechanisms downstream of cAMP and MAPK signalling. Biochem J 2014; 458:469-79. [PMID: 24438093 DOI: 10.1042/bj20131115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
CREB (cAMP-response-element-binding protein) is an important transcription factor for the activation of a number of immediate early genes. CREB is phosphorylated on Ser133 by PKA (protein kinase A), promoting the recruitment of the co-activator proteins CBP (CREB-binding protein) and p300; this has been proposed to increase the transcription of CREB-dependent genes. CREB is also phosphorylated on Ser133 by MSK1/2 (mitogen- and stress-activated kinase 1/2) in cells in response to the activation of MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signalling; however, the relevance of this to gene transcription has been controversial. To resolve this problem, we created a mouse with a Ser133 to alanine residue mutation in the endogenous Creb gene. Unlike the total CREB knockout, which is perinatally lethal, these mice were viable, but born at less than the expected Mendelian frequency on a C57Bl/6 background. Using embryonic fibroblasts from the S133A-knockin mice we show in the present study that Ser133 phosphorylation downstream of PKA is required for CBP/p300 recruitment. The requirement of Ser133 phosphorylation for the PKA-mediated induction of CREB-dependent genes was, however, promoter-specific. Furthermore, we show that in cells the phosphorylation of CREB on Ser133 by MSKs does not promote strong recruitment of CBP or p300. Despite this, MSK-mediated CREB phosphorylation is critical for the induction of CREB-dependent genes downstream of MAPK signalling.
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15
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Zhang Q, Xu X, Li T, Lu Y, Ruan Q, Lu Y, Wang Q, Dong F, Yang Y, Zhang G. Exposure to bisphenol-A affects fear memory and histone acetylation of the hippocampus in adult mice. Horm Behav 2014; 65:106-13. [PMID: 24333847 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2013.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 11/24/2013] [Accepted: 12/04/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenol-A (BPA), an environmental endocrine disruptor, has been reported to possess weak estrogenic, anti-estrogenic, and anti-androgen properties. Previous evidence indicates that perinatal exposure to low levels of BPA affects anxiety-like and cognitive behaviors in adult rodents. The present study aims to investigate the effect of BPA on emotional memory using the contextual fear conditioning of male mice in adulthood exposed to BPA for 90days. The results indicated that exposure to BPA increased the freezing time 1h and 24h after fear conditioning training. Furthermore, western blot analyses showed that BPA exposure decreased the level of N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor subunit NR1 and increased the expression of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) before fear conditioning training in the hippocampus of male mice. One and twenty-four hours after fear conditioning training, BPA enhanced the changes of the expressions of NR1, phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK1/2), and histone acetylation induced by contextual fear conditioning in the hippocampus. These results suggest that long term exposure to BPA enhanced fear memory by the concomitant increased level of NMDA receptor and/or the enhanced histone acetylation in the hippocampus, which may be associated with activation of ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Zhang
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
| | - Xiaohong Xu
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University, China.
| | - Tao Li
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
| | - Yang Lu
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
| | - Qin Ruan
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
| | - Yingjun Lu
- Kindergarten Teachers College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
| | - Qinwen Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University, China
| | - Fangni Dong
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
| | - Yanling Yang
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
| | - Guangxia Zhang
- Chemistry and Life Sciences College, Zhejiang Normal University, China
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16
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Krishnan HR, Sakharkar AJ, Teppen TL, Berkel TDM, Pandey SC. The epigenetic landscape of alcoholism. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2014; 115:75-116. [PMID: 25131543 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-801311-3.00003-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Alcoholism is a complex psychiatric disorder that has a multifactorial etiology. Epigenetic mechanisms are uniquely capable of accounting for the multifactorial nature of the disease in that they are highly stable and are affected by environmental factors, including alcohol itself. Chromatin remodeling causes changes in gene expression in specific brain regions contributing to the endophenotypes of alcoholism such as tolerance and dependence. The epigenetic mechanisms that regulate changes in gene expression observed in addictive behaviors respond not only to alcohol exposure but also to comorbid psychopathology such as the presence of anxiety and stress. This review summarizes recent developments in epigenetic research that may play a role in alcoholism. We propose that pharmacologically manipulating epigenetic targets, as demonstrated in various preclinical models, hold great therapeutic potential in the treatment and prevention of alcoholism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harish R Krishnan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Amul J Sakharkar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Tara L Teppen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Tiffani D M Berkel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Subhash C Pandey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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17
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Huidobro C, Fernandez AF, Fraga MF. The role of genetics in the establishment and maintenance of the epigenome. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:1543-73. [PMID: 23474979 PMCID: PMC11113764 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-013-1296-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Revised: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms play an important role in gene regulation during development. DNA methylation, which is probably the most important and best-studied epigenetic mechanism, can be abnormally regulated in common pathologies, but the origin of altered DNA methylation remains unknown. Recent research suggests that these epigenetic alterations could depend, at least in part, on genetic mutations or polymorphisms in DNA methyltransferases and certain genes encoding enzymes of the one-carbon metabolism pathway. Indeed, the de novo methyltransferase 3B (DNMT3B) has been recently found to be mutated in several types of cancer and in the immunodeficiency, centromeric region instability and facial anomalies syndrome (ICF), in which these mutations could be related to the loss of global DNA methylation. In addition, mutations in glycine-N-methyltransferase (GNMT) could be associated with a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver disease due to an unbalanced S-adenosylmethionine (SAM)/S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) ratio, which leads to aberrant methylation reactions. Also, genetic variants of chromatin remodeling proteins and histone tail modifiers are involved in genetic disorders like α thalassemia X-linked mental retardation syndrome, CHARGE syndrome, Cockayne syndrome, Rett syndrome, systemic lupus erythematous, Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, Coffin-Lowry syndrome, Sotos syndrome, and facioescapulohumeral syndrome, among others. Here, we review the potential genetic alterations with a possible role on epigenetic factors and discuss their contribution to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Covadonga Huidobro
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Institute of Oncology of Asturias (IUOPA-HUCA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Agustin F. Fernandez
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Institute of Oncology of Asturias (IUOPA-HUCA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Mario F. Fraga
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Institute of Oncology of Asturias (IUOPA-HUCA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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18
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Kinases and phosphatases in the epigenetic regulation of cognitive functions. Epigenomics 2012. [DOI: 10.1017/cbo9780511777271.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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19
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Ashabi G, Ramin M, Azizi P, Taslimi Z, Alamdary SZ, Haghparast A, Ansari N, Motamedi F, Khodagholi F. ERK and p38 inhibitors attenuate memory deficits and increase CREB phosphorylation and PGC-1α levels in Aβ-injected rats. Behav Brain Res 2012; 232:165-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2012.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Revised: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 04/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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20
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Day JJ, Sweatt JD. Epigenetic treatments for cognitive impairments. Neuropsychopharmacology 2012; 37:247-60. [PMID: 21593731 PMCID: PMC3238093 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2011.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2011] [Revised: 04/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms integrate signals from diverse intracellular transduction cascades and in turn regulate genetic readout. Accumulating evidence has revealed that these mechanisms are critical components of ongoing physiology and function in the adult nervous system, and are essential for many cognitive processes, including learning and memory. Moreover, a number of psychiatric disorders and syndromes that involve cognitive impairments are associated with altered epigenetic function. In this review, we will examine how epigenetic mechanisms contribute to cognition, consider how changes in these mechanisms may lead to cognitive impairments in a range of disorders and discuss the potential utility of therapeutic treatments that target epigenetic machinery. Finally, we will comment on a number of caveats associated with interpreting epigenetic changes and using epigenetic treatments, and suggest future directions for research in this area that will expand our understanding of the epigenetic changes underlying cognitive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy J Day
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294-2182, USA.
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21
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James TT, Aroor AR, Lim RW, Shukla SD. Histone H3 phosphorylation (Ser10, Ser28) and phosphoacetylation (K9S10) are differentially associated with gene expression in liver of rats treated in vivo with acute ethanol. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2011; 340:237-47. [PMID: 22025646 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.111.186775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The epigenetic histone modification by ethanol is emerging as one of the mechanisms for its deleterious effects in the liver. In this context, we have investigated the role of histone H3 phosphorylation at Ser10 (P-H3-Ser10), and Ser28 (P-H3-Ser28) in liver after acute ethanol treatment in vivo. Ethanol was administered intraperitoneally in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Ethanol dose-response (1-5 g/kg body weight) and time-course (1-4 h) experiments were conducted, and various parameters were monitored. Steatosis and necrosis (serum alanine aminotransferase) of the liver increased in 4 h, suggesting liver injury. There were differences between P-H3-Ser10 and P-H3-Ser28 at 1 h, with the latter being more sensitive to lower ethanol doses. It was noteworthy that phosphorylation of both serines disappeared at the highest dose used (5 g/kg). We also examined phosphoacetylation of histone H3 at K9S10 and observed a dramatic increase. The changes in histone H3 phosphorylation and phosphoacetylation were also accompanied with expression of early response genes (c-fos, c-jun, mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1). Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays in samples from 1.5 and 4 h of ethanol administration indicated that increased histone H3 phosphorylation at Ser28 was associated with the promoters of c-jun and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. In conclusion, this study demonstrates for the first time that in vivo exposure of liver to acute ethanol induced phosphorylation and phosphoacetylation of histone H3, and these modifications are differentially involved in the mRNA expression of genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taryn T James
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
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22
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Bellet MM, Sassone-Corsi P. Mammalian circadian clock and metabolism - the epigenetic link. J Cell Sci 2011; 123:3837-48. [PMID: 21048160 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.051649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Circadian rhythms regulate a wide variety of physiological and metabolic processes. The clock machinery comprises complex transcriptional-translational feedback loops that, through the action of specific transcription factors, modulate the expression of as many as 10% of cellular transcripts. This marked change in gene expression necessarily implicates a global regulation of chromatin remodeling. Indeed, various descriptive studies have indicated that histone modifications occur at promoters of clock-controlled genes (CCGs) in a circadian manner. The finding that CLOCK, a transcription factor crucial for circadian function, has intrinsic histone acetyl transferase (HAT) activity has paved the way to unraveling the molecular mechanisms that govern circadian chromatin remodeling. A search for the histone deacetylase (HDAC) that counterbalances CLOCK activity revealed that SIRT1, a nicotinamide adenin dinucleotide (NAD(+))-dependent HDAC, functions in a circadian manner. Importantly, SIRT1 is a regulator of aging, inflammation and metabolism. As many transcripts that oscillate in mammalian peripheral tissues encode proteins that have central roles in metabolic processes, these findings establish a functional and molecular link between energy balance, chromatin remodeling and circadian physiology. Here we review recent studies that support the existence of this link and discuss their implications for understanding mammalian physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Maria Bellet
- Department of Pharmacology, Unite 904 Inserm Epigenetics and Neuronal Plasticity, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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23
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Schaefer A, Tarakhovsky A, Greengard P. Epigenetic mechanisms of mental retardation. PROGRESS IN DRUG RESEARCH. FORTSCHRITTE DER ARZNEIMITTELFORSCHUNG. PROGRES DES RECHERCHES PHARMACEUTIQUES 2011; 67:125-146. [PMID: 21141728 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-7643-8989-5_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Mental retardation is a common form of cognitive impairment affecting approximately 3% of the population in industrialized countries. The mental retardation syndrome incorporates a highly diverse group of mental disorders characterized by the combination of cognitive impairment and defective adaptive behavior. The genetic basis of the disease is strongly supported by identification of the genetic lesions associated with impaired cognition, learning, and social adaptation in many mental retardation syndromes. Several of the impaired genes encode epigenetic regulators of gene expression. These regulators exert their function through genome-wide posttranslational modification of histones or by mediating and/or recognizing DNA methylation. In this chapter, we review the most recent advances in the field of epigenetic mechanisms of mental retardation. In particular, we focus on animal models of the human diseases and the mechanism of transcriptional deregulation associated with changes in the cell epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schaefer
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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24
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Dynamic epigenetic regulation in neurons: enzymes, stimuli and signaling pathways. Nat Neurosci 2010; 13:1330-7. [PMID: 20975757 DOI: 10.1038/nn.2671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The development and function of neurons require the regulated expression of large numbers of very specific gene sets. Epigenetic modifications of both DNA and histone proteins are now emerging as fundamental mechanisms by which neurons adapt their transcriptional response to developmental and environmental cues. In the nervous system, the mechanisms by which extracellular signals regulate the activity of chromatin-modifying enzymes have just begun to be characterized. In this Review, I discuss how extracellular cues, including synaptic activity and neurotrophic factors, influence epigenetic modifications and regulate the neuronal transcriptional response. I also summarize additional mechanisms that induce chromatin remodeling events by combinatorial assembly of multiprotein complexes on neuronal gene promoters.
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25
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Coffin–Lowry syndrome: A role for RSK2 in mammalian neurogenesis. Dev Biol 2010; 347:348-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2010.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2010] [Revised: 08/27/2010] [Accepted: 08/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Epigenetics, copy number variation, and other molecular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disabilities: new insights and diagnostic approaches. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2010; 31:582-91. [PMID: 20814257 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0b013e3181ee384e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The diagnostic evaluation of children with intellectual disability (ID) and other neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD) has become increasingly complex in recent years owing to a number of newly recognized genetic mechanisms and sophisticated methods to diagnose them. Previous studies have attempted to address the diagnostic yield of finding a genetic cause in ID. The results have varied widely from 10% to 81%, with the highest percentage being found in studies using new array comparative genomic hybridization methodology especially in autism. Although many cases of ID/NDD result from chromosomal aneuploidy or structural rearrangements, single gene disorders and new categories of genome modification, including epigenetics and copy number variation play an increasingly important role in diagnosis and testing. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and modifications to histone proteins, regulate high-order DNA structure and gene expression. Aberrant epigenetic and copy number variation mechanisms are involved in several neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders including Rett syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and microdeletion syndromes. This review will describe a number of the molecular genetic mechanisms that play a role in disorders leading to ID/NDD and will discuss the categories and technologies for diagnostic testing of these conditions.
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27
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Zocchi L, Sassone-Corsi P. Joining the dots: from chromatin remodeling to neuronal plasticity. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2010; 20:432-40. [PMID: 20471240 PMCID: PMC3375208 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2010.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2010] [Revised: 04/07/2010] [Accepted: 04/09/2010] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
In recent years spectacular advances in the field of epigenetics have taken place. Multiple lines of evidence that connect epigenetic regulation to brain functions have been accumulating. Neurons daily convert a variety of external stimuli into rapid or long-lasting changes in gene expression. Control is achieved through several covalent modifications that occur both on DNA and chromatin. Specific modifications mediate many developmental processes and adult brain functions, such as synaptic plasticity and memory. In this review, we focus on crucial chromatin remodeling events that mediate long-lasting neuronal responses. The challenging goal is to reach sufficient understanding of these epigenetic pathways in the brain so that they may be useful for future development of specific pharmacological strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Zocchi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, 92697 Irvine, California
| | - Paolo Sassone-Corsi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, 92697 Irvine, California
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28
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Aroor AR, James TT, Jackson DE, Shukla SD. Differential changes in MAP kinases, histone modifications, and liver injury in rats acutely treated with ethanol. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2010; 34:1543-51. [PMID: 20586759 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2010.01239.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute ethanol is known to affect cells and organs but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly explored. Recent developments highlight the potential importance of mitogen-activated protein kinases, MAPKs (i.e., ERK1/2, p38, and JNK1/2) signaling, and histone modifications (i.e., acetylation, methylation, and phosphorylation) in the actions of ethanol in hepatocytes. We have therefore investigated significance of these molecular steps in vivo using a model in which rats were acutely administered ethanol intraperitoneally (IP). METHODS Ethanol was administered IP (3.5 gm/kg body weight) to 12-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats. Liver was subsequently removed at 1 and 4 hours. Serum was used for alcohol and ALT assays. At the time of the removal of liver, small portions of each liver were formalin-fixed and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and used for light microscopy. Western blot analysis was carried out with specific primary antibodies for various parameters. RESULTS There were clear differences at 1 and 4 hours in blood ethanol, ALT, steatosis, and cleaved caspase 3. Apoptosis at 1 hour was followed by necrosis at 4 hours. Acute alcohol elicited a marked increase in the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and moderate increases in the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and JNK. Temporally different phosphorylation of histone H3 at ser-10 and ser-28 occurred and acetylation of histone H3 at lys 9 increased progressively. CONCLUSIONS There were distinct differences in the behavior of the activation of the 3 MAP kinases and histone modifications after acute short exposure of liver to ethanol in vivo. Although all 3 MAPKs were rapidly activated at 1 hour, the necrosis, occurring at 4 hours, correlated to sustained activation of ERK1/2. Transient activation of p38 is associated with rapid phosphorylation of histone H3, whereas prolonged activation of ERK1/2 is correlated to persistent histone H3 acetylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annayya R Aroor
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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29
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Hausott B, Kurnaz I, Gajovic S, Klimaschewski L. Signaling by neuronal tyrosine kinase receptors: relevance for development and regeneration. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2010; 292:1976-85. [PMID: 19943349 DOI: 10.1002/ar.20964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase activation by binding of neurotrophic factors determines neuronal morphology and identity, migration of neurons to appropriate destinations, and integration into functional neural circuits as well as synapse formation with appropriate targets at the right time and at the right place. This review summarizes the most important aspects of intraneuronal signaling mechanisms and induced gene expression changes that underlie morphological and neurochemical consequences of receptor tyrosine kinase activation in central and peripheral neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Hausott
- Division of Neuroanatomy, Medical University Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 59, Innsbruck, Austria
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30
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31
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Fenton TR, Gwalter J, Ericsson J, Gout IT. Histone acetyltransferases interact with and acetylate p70 ribosomal S6 kinases in vitro and in vivo. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2009; 42:359-66. [PMID: 19961954 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2009.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2009] [Revised: 11/12/2009] [Accepted: 11/24/2009] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The 70kDa ribosomal protein S6 kinases (S6K1 and S6K2) play important roles in the regulation of protein synthesis, cell growth and survival. S6Ks are activated in response to mitogen stimulation and nutrient sufficiency by the phosphorylation of conserved serine and threonine residues. Here we show for the first time, that in addition to phosphorylation, S6Ks are also targeted by lysine acetylation. Following mitogen stimulation, S6Ks interact with the p300 and p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF) acetyltransferases. S6Ks can be acetylated by p300 and PCAF in vitro and S6K acetylation is detected in cells expressing p300. Furthermore, it appears that the acetylation sites targeted by p300 lie within the divergent C-terminal regulatory domains of both S6K1 and S6K2. Acetylation of S6K1 and 2 is increased upon the inhibition of class I/II histone deacetylases (HDACs) by trichostatin-A, while the enhancement of S6K1 acetylation by nicotinamide suggests the additional involvement of sirtuin deacetylases in S6K deacetylation. Both expression of p300 and HDAC inhibition cause increases in S6K protein levels, and we have shown that S6K2 is stabilized in cells treated with HDAC inhibitors. The finding that S6Ks are targeted by histone acetyltransferases uncovers a novel mode of crosstalk between mitogenic signalling pathways and the transcriptional machinery and reveals additional complexity in the regulation of S6K function.
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Affiliation(s)
- T R Fenton
- Research Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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32
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Beck IME, Vanden Berghe W, Vermeulen L, Yamamoto KR, Haegeman G, De Bosscher K. Crosstalk in inflammation: the interplay of glucocorticoid receptor-based mechanisms and kinases and phosphatases. Endocr Rev 2009; 30:830-82. [PMID: 19890091 PMCID: PMC2818158 DOI: 10.1210/er.2009-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2009] [Accepted: 08/18/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) are steroidal ligands for the GC receptor (GR), which can function as a ligand-activated transcription factor. These steroidal ligands and derivatives thereof are the first line of treatment in a vast array of inflammatory diseases. However, due to the general surge of side effects associated with long-term use of GCs and the potential problem of GC resistance in some patients, the scientific world continues to search for a better understanding of the GC-mediated antiinflammatory mechanisms. The reversible phosphomodification of various mediators in the inflammatory process plays a key role in modulating and fine-tuning the sensitivity, longevity, and intensity of the inflammatory response. As such, the antiinflammatory GCs can modulate the activity and/or expression of various kinases and phosphatases, thus affecting the signaling efficacy toward the propagation of proinflammatory gene expression and proinflammatory gene mRNA stability. Conversely, phosphorylation of GR can affect GR ligand- and DNA-binding affinity, mobility, and cofactor recruitment, culminating in altered transactivation and transrepression capabilities of GR, and consequently leading to a modified antiinflammatory potential. Recently, new roles for kinases and phosphatases have been described in GR-based antiinflammatory mechanisms. Moreover, kinase inhibitors have become increasingly important as antiinflammatory tools, not only for research but also for therapeutic purposes. In light of these developments, we aim to illuminate the integrated interplay between GR signaling and its correlating kinases and phosphatases in the context of the clinically important combat of inflammation, giving attention to implications on GC-mediated side effects and therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilse M E Beck
- Laboratory of Eukaryotic Gene Expression and Signal Transduction, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
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33
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Urdinguio RG, Sanchez-Mut JV, Esteller M. Epigenetic mechanisms in neurological diseases: genes, syndromes, and therapies. Lancet Neurol 2009; 8:1056-72. [PMID: 19833297 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(09)70262-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 340] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and modifications to histone proteins regulate high-order DNA structure and gene expression. Aberrant epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the development of many diseases, including cancer. The neurological disorder most intensely studied with regard to epigenetic changes is Rett syndrome; patients with Rett syndrome have neurodevelopmental defects associated with mutations in MeCP2, which encodes the methyl CpG binding protein 2, that binds to methylated DNA. Other mental retardation disorders are also linked to the disruption of genes involved in epigenetic mechanisms; such disorders include alpha thalassaemia/mental retardation X-linked syndrome, Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, and Coffin-Lowry syndrome. Moreover, aberrant DNA methylation and histone modification profiles of discrete DNA sequences, and those at a genome-wide level, have just begun to be described for neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease, and in other neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In this Review, we describe epigenetic changes present in neurological diseases and discuss the therapeutic potential of epigenetic drugs, such as histone deacetylase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio G Urdinguio
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, Catalonia, Spain
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34
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Price DM, Kanyo R, Steinberg N, Chik CL, Ho AK. Nocturnal activation of aurora C in rat pineal gland: its role in the norepinephrine-induced phosphorylation of histone H3 and gene expression. Endocrinology 2009; 150:2334-41. [PMID: 19116339 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-1507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We have shown previously that Ser10 phosphorylation of histone H3 occurs in rat pinealocytes after stimulation with norepinephrine (NE) and that histone modifications such as acetylation appear to play an important role in pineal gene transcription. Here we report the nocturnal phosphorylation of a Ser10 histone H3 kinase, Aurora C, in the rat pineal gland. The time profile of this phosphorylation parallels the increase in the level of phospho-Ser10 histone H3. Studies with cultured pinealocytes indicate that Aurora C phosphorylation is induced by NE and this induction can be blocked by cotreatment with propranolol or KT5720, a protein kinase A inhibitor. Moreover, only treatment with dibutyryl cAMP, but not other kinase activators, mimics the effect of NE on Aurora C phosphorylation. These results indicate that Aurora C is phosphorylated primarily by a beta-adrenergic/protein kinase A-mediated mechanism. Treatment with an Aurora C inhibitor reduces the NE-induced histone H3 phosphorylation and suppresses the NE-stimulated induction of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT), the rhythm-controlling enzyme of melatonin synthesis, and melatonin production. The effects of Aurora C inhibitors on adrenergic-induced genes in rat pinealocytes are gene specific: inhibitory for Aa-nat and inducible cAMP repressor but stimulatory for c-fos. Together our results support a role for the NE-stimulated phosphorylation of Aurora C and the subsequent remodeling of chromatin in NE-stimulated Aa-nat transcription. This phenomenon suggests that activation of this mitotic kinase can be induced by extracellular signals to participate in the transcriptional induction of a subset of genes in the rat pineal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Price
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2H7
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35
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Abstract
Neurons are submitted to an exceptional variety of stimuli and are able to convert these into high-order functions, such as storing memories, controlling behavior, and governing consciousness. These unique properties are based on the highly flexible nature of neurons, a characteristic that can be regulated by the complex molecular machinery that controls gene expression. Epigenetic control, which largely involves events of chromatin remodeling, appears to be one way in which transcriptional regulation of gene expression can be modified in neurons. This review will focus on how epigenetic control in the mature nervous system may guide dynamic plasticity processes and long-lasting cellular neuronal responses. We outline the molecular pathways underlying chromatin transitions, propose the presence of an "epigenetic indexing code," and discuss how central findings accumulating at an exponential pace in the field of epigenetics are conceptually changing our perspective of adult brain function.
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36
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Bitoun E, Davies KE. The robotic mouse: understanding the role of AF4, a cofactor of transcriptional elongation and chromatin remodelling, in purkinje cell function. THE CEREBELLUM 2009; 8:175-83. [PMID: 19340490 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-009-0101-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2008] [Accepted: 03/11/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurological disorders represent a large share of the disease burden worldwide, and the incidence of age-related forms will continue to rise with life expectancy. Gene targeting has been and will remain a valuable approach to the generation of clinically relevant mouse models from which to elucidate the underlying molecular basis. However, as the aetiology of the majority of these conditions is still unknown, a reverse approach based on large-scale random chemical mutagenesis is now being used in an attempt to identify new genes and associated signalling pathways that control neuronal cell death and survival. Here, we review the characterisation of a novel model of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia which shows general growth retardation and develops adult-onset region-specific Purkinje cell loss as well as cataracts and defects in early T-cell maturation. We have previously established that the mutated protein Af4, which is a member of the AF4/LAF4/FMR2 (ALF) family of transcription cofactors frequently translocated in childhood leukaemia, undergoes slower proteasomal turnover through the ubiquitin pathway and abnormally accumulates in Purkinje cells of the cerebellum. We have also shown that Af4 functions as part of a large multiprotein complex that stimulates RNA polymerase II elongation and mediates chromatin remodelling during transcription. With the forthcoming identification of the gene targets that trigger Purkinje cell death in the robotic cerebellum, and the functional conservation among the ALF proteins, the robotic mouse promises to deliver important insights into the pathogenesis of human ataxia, but also of mental retardation to which FMR2 and LAF4 have been linked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Bitoun
- MRC Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
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Kim SJ, Nian C, McIntosh CHS. Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 modulate beta-cell chromatin structure. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:12896-904. [PMID: 19279000 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m809046200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromatin can exert a regulatory effect on gene transcription by modulating the access of transcription factors to target genes. In the present study, we examined whether nuclear actions of the incretin hormones, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1, involve modulation of beta-cell chromatin structure. Stimulation of INS-1(832/13) beta-cells or dispersed mouse islets with glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide or glucagon-like peptide-1 resulted in the post-translational modification of core H3 histones, through acetylation and phosphorylation. Both increased histone H3 acetyltransferase and reduced histone deacetylase activities contributed. Subsequent studies demonstrated that incretin-mediated histone H3 modifications involved activation of protein kinase A, p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and p38 MAPK signaling modules, resulting in the activation of mitogen- and stress-activated kinase-1. Additionally, modification of histone H3 increased its association with the transcription factor, phosphorylated cAMP-response element-binding protein (phospho-CREB) and with cAMP-responsive CREB coactivator 2. Incretin-activated CREB-related Bcl-2 transcription was greatly reduced by a histone acetyltransferase inhibitor, demonstrating the functional importance of histone H3 modification. This appears to be the first demonstration of beta-cell chromatin modification in response to the incretins and the studies indicate that their regulatory effects involve coordinated nuclear interactions between specific signaling modules, chromatin-modifying enzymes and transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Jin Kim
- Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences and the Diabetes Research Group, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Grimaldi B, Nakahata Y, Kaluzova M, Masubuchi S, Sassone-Corsi P. Chromatin remodeling, metabolism and circadian clocks: the interplay of CLOCK and SIRT1. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2008; 41:81-6. [PMID: 18817890 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2008.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2008] [Revised: 08/28/2008] [Accepted: 08/28/2008] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms govern a wide variety of physiological and metabolic functions in almost all organisms. These are controlled by the circadian clock machinery, which is mostly based on transcriptional-translational feedback loops. Importantly, 10-15% of the mammalian transcripts oscillate in a circadian manner. The complex program of gene expression that characterizes circadian physiology is possible through dynamic changes in chromatin transitions. These remodeling events are therefore of great importance to insure the proper timing and extent of circadian regulation. Recent advances in the field have revealed unexpected links between circadian regulators, chromatin remodeling and cellular metabolism. Specifically, the central clock protein CLOCK has HAT enzymatic properties. It directs acetylation of histone H3 and of its dimerization partner BMAL1 at K537, an event essential for circadian function. In addition, the HDAC activity of the NAD(+)-dependent SIRT1 enzyme is regulated in a circadian manner. It has been proposed that SIRT1 functions as an enzymatic rheostat of circadian function, transducing signals originated by cellular metabolites to the circadian clock. Thus, a specialized program of chromatin remodeling appears to be at the core of the circadian machinery.
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Genetic and epigenetic defects in mental retardation. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2008; 41:96-107. [PMID: 18765296 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2008.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2008] [Revised: 08/06/2008] [Accepted: 08/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Mental retardation (MR) is a highly diverse group of cognitive disorders. The high incidence of MR, 2-3% in most populations, and the high burden for families and society makes this condition one of the major unsolved problems in modern medicine. Gene defects account for about half of all patients and more than 300 genes are known that, when mutated, lead to cognitive dysfunction. A strikingly high number of these MR genes encode regulators of chromatin structure and of chromatin-mediated transcription regulation. Prominent examples of these include the methyl CpG-binding protein MECP2, the H3K4 demethylase JARID1c and the H3K9 histone methyltransferase EHMT1. Moreover, several of these epigenetic MR proteins have been found to directly interact with one another or act in complexes that regulate the local chromatin structure at target genes that are key to normal neuronal activities. Thus, it appears that the function of individual MR genes converges to similar biological processes. More detailed knowledge about the altered DNA methylation and histone marks that are introduced by epigenetic gene mutations as well as more insight into neuronal genes whose expression is disrupted by this will provide a rationale for therapeutic strategies.
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Fontán-Lozano A, Romero-Granados R, Troncoso J, Múnera A, Delgado-García JM, Carrión AM. Histone deacetylase inhibitors improve learning consolidation in young and in KA-induced-neurodegeneration and SAMP-8-mutant mice. Mol Cell Neurosci 2008; 39:193-201. [PMID: 18638560 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2008.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2008] [Revised: 06/13/2008] [Accepted: 06/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDAC) are enzymes that maintain chromatin in a condensate state, related with absence of transcription. We have studied the role of HDAC on learning and memory processes. Both eyeblink classical conditioning (EBCC) and object recognition memory (ORM) induced an increase in histone H3 acetylation (Ac-H3). Systemic treatment with HDAC inhibitors improved cognitive processes in EBCC and in ORM tests. Immunohistochemistry and gene expression analyses indicated that administration of HDAC inhibitors decreased the stimulation threshold for Ac-H3, and gene expression to reach the levels required for learning and memory. Finally, we evaluated the effect of systemic administration of HDAC inhibitors to mice models of neurodegeneration and aging. HDAC inhibitors reversed learning and consolidation deficits in ORM in these models. These results point out HDAC inhibitors as candidate agents for the palliative treatment of learning and memory impairments in aging and in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Fontán-Lozano
- División de Neurociencias, Universidad Pablo de Olavide de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
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Lazzaro MA, Todd MAM, Lavigne P, Vallee D, De Maria A, Picketts DJ. Characterization of novel isoforms and evaluation of SNF2L/SMARCA1 as a candidate gene for X-linked mental retardation in 12 families linked to Xq25-26. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2008; 9:11. [PMID: 18302774 PMCID: PMC2266716 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2350-9-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2007] [Accepted: 02/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Mutations in genes whose products modify chromatin structure have been recognized as a cause of X-linked mental retardation (XLMR). These genes encode proteins that regulate DNA methylation (MeCP2), modify histones (RSK2 and JARID1C), and remodel nucleosomes through ATP hydrolysis (ATRX). Thus, genes encoding other chromatin modifying proteins should also be considered as disease candidate genes. In this work, we have characterized the SNF2L gene, encoding an ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling protein of the ISWI family, and sequenced the gene in patients from 12 XLMR families linked to Xq25-26. Methods We used an in silico and RT-PCR approach to fully characterize specific SNF2L isoforms. Mutation screening was performed in 12 patients from individual families with syndromic or non-syndromic XLMR. We sequenced each of the 25 exons encompassing the entire coding region, complete 5' and 3' untranslated regions, and consensus splice-sites. Results The SNF2L gene spans 77 kb and is encoded by 25 exons that undergo alternate splicing to generate several distinct transcripts. Specific isoforms are generated through the alternate use of exons 1 and 13, and by the use of alternate donor splice sites within exon 24. Alternate splicing within exon 24 removes a NLS sequence and alters the subcellular distribution of the SNF2L protein. We identified 3 single nucleotide polymorphisms but no mutations in our 12 patients. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that there are numerous splice variants of SNF2L that are expressed in multiple cell types and which alter subcellular localization and function. SNF2L mutations are not a cause of XLMR in our cohort of patients, although we cannot exclude the possibility that regulatory mutations might exist. Nonetheless, SNF2L remains a candidate for XLMR localized to Xq25-26, including the Shashi XLMR syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maribeth A Lazzaro
- Ottawa Health Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.
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Stachowiak MK, Maher PA, Stachowiak EK. Integrative Nuclear Signaling in Cell Development—A Role for FGF Receptor-1. DNA Cell Biol 2007; 26:811-26. [DOI: 10.1089/dna.2007.0664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michal K. Stachowiak
- Molecular and Structural Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Program, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | | | - Ewa K. Stachowiak
- Molecular and Structural Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Program, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
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Abstract
During T-cell activation, a number of cytokine-activated signaling cascades, including the Jak-STAT, phosphoinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, play important roles in modulating the expression of target genes and mediating a cellular response. We now report that interleukin 2 (IL-2) and IL-15, but not IL-7, rapidly activate the p90 ribosomal S6 kinases, Rsk1 and Rsk2, in human T lymphocytes. Surprisingly, mouse spleen T cells transduced with either the wild-type or a dominant-negative (DN) Rsk2-expressing retrovirus could not be recovered, in contrast to the normal survival of T cells transduced with retroviruses expressing wild-type or DN mutants of Rsk1 or Rsk3. Examination of Rsk2 knockout (KO) mice revealed normal T-cell development, but these T cells had delayed cell-cycle progression and lower production of IL-2 in response to anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 stimulation in vitro. Moreover, Rsk2 KO mice had defective homeostatic T-cell expansion following sublethal irradiation in vivo, which is known to involve T-cell receptor (TCR), IL-2, and/or IL-15 signals, each of which we demonstrate can rapidly and potently activate Rsk2 in mouse T cells. These results indicate an essential nonredundant role of Rsk2 in T-cell activation.
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Effects of acute cocaine on ERK and DARPP-32 phosphorylation pathways in the caudate-putamen of Fischer rats. Brain Res 2007; 1178:12-9. [PMID: 17920048 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.07.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2007] [Revised: 07/17/2007] [Accepted: 07/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and dopamine- and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein (DARPP-32) pathways has been implicated in biochemical and behavioral effects induced by various drugs of abuse. In this study, we investigated the phosphorylation pathways of these two proteins in response to acute cocaine administration. A single cocaine administration (30 mg/kg) increased ERK-mediated signaling proteins, phosphoryation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) kinase, pp90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK), and c-Fos protein levels in the caudate/putamen of Fischer rats. Acute cocaine administration also induced phosphorylation of the striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) and decreased the phosphorylation of DARPP-32 protein at the Thr-75 site. The phosphorylation states of these inhibitors of ERK and DARPP-32 proteins may thus contribute to the effects of cocaine on ERK- and DARPP-32-mediated cascades, on gene expression and on behaviors.
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Clark CJ, McDade DM, O'Shaughnessy CT, Morris BJ. Contrasting roles of neuronal Msk1 and Rsk2 in Bad phosphorylation and feedback regulation of Erk signalling. J Neurochem 2007; 102:1024-34. [PMID: 17663748 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2007.04601.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Activated extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (Erk) phosphorylates and activates downstream kinases including ribosomal S6 kinase 2 (Rsk2/RPS6KA3) and mitogen- and stress-activated kinase 1 (Msk1, RPS6KA5). Rsk2 plays an important role in neuronal plasticity, as patients with Coffin-Lowry syndrome, where Rsk2 is dysfunctional, have impaired cognitive function. However, the relative role of neuronal Rsk2 and Msk1 in activating proteins downstream of Erk is unclear. In PC12 cells and in cortical neurones, the calcium ionophore A23187-induced phosphorylation of Erk, Msk1, Rsk2 and also the Bcl-2-associated death protein (Bad), which protects against neurotoxicity. Specific knockdown of Msk1 with small interfering RNA reduced the ability of A23187 to induce Bad phosphorylation in both PC12 cells and cortical neurones. Conversely, specific knockdown of Rsk2 potentiated Bad phosphorylation following A23187 treatment, and also elevated Erk phosphorylation in both cell types. This indicates that Msk1 rather than Rsk2 mediates neuronal Bad phosphorylation following Ca(2+) influx and implicates Rsk2 in a negative-feedback regulation of Erk activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Clark
- Division of Neuroscience and Biomedical Systems, Institute of Biomedical and Life Sciences, West Medical Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and NF-κB are two major regulators of gene transcription and metabolism in response to oxidative, energetic, and mechanical stress in skeletal muscle. Chronic activation of these signaling pathways has been implicated in the development and perpetuation of various pathologies, such as diabetes and cachexia. However, both MAPK and NF-κB are also stimulated by exercise, which promotes improvements in fuel homeostasis and can prevent skeletal muscle atrophy. This review will first discuss the major MAPK signaling modules in skeletal muscle, their differential activation by exercise, and speculated functions on acute substrate metabolism and exercise-induced gene expression. Focus will then shift to examination of the NF-κB pathway, including its mechanism of activation by cellular stress and its putative mediation of exercise-stimulated adaptations in antioxidant status, tissue regeneration, and metabolism. Although limited, there is additional evidence to suggest cross talk between MAPK and NF-κB signals with exercise. The objectives herein are twofold: 1) to determine how and why exercise activates MAPK and NF-κB; and 2) to resolve their paradoxical activation during diseased and healthy conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henning F Kramer
- Metabolism, Research Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
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Tsankova N, Renthal W, Kumar A, Nestler EJ. Epigenetic regulation in psychiatric disorders. Nat Rev Neurosci 2007; 8:355-67. [PMID: 17453016 DOI: 10.1038/nrn2132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 898] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Many neurological and most psychiatric disorders are not due to mutations in a single gene; rather, they involve molecular disturbances entailing multiple genes and signals that control their expression. Recent research has demonstrated that complex 'epigenetic' mechanisms, which regulate gene activity without altering the DNA code, have long-lasting effects within mature neurons. This review summarizes recent evidence for the existence of sustained epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation in neurons that have been implicated in the regulation of complex behaviour, including abnormalities in several psychiatric disorders such as depression, drug addiction and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Tsankova
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Basic Neuroscience, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Lee KY, Bignone PA, Ganesan TS. p90 Ribosomal S6 kinases- eclectic members of the human kinome. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1002/sita.200600091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Micheli V, Sestini S, Parri V, Fichera M, Romano C, Ariani F, Longo I, Mari F, Bruttini M, Renieri A, Meloni I. RSK2 enzymatic assay as a second level diagnostic tool in Coffin-Lowry syndrome. Clin Chim Acta 2007; 384:35-40. [PMID: 17586481 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2007.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2007] [Revised: 04/17/2007] [Accepted: 05/14/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coffin-Lowry syndrome is a semi-dominant condition characterized by severe psychomotor retardation with facial, hand and skeletal malformations resulting from mutations in RSK2 gene, encoding for a serine/threonine kinase. More than 100 different mutations have been identified to date; however, about 50% of clinically diagnosed patients apparently do not have mutations. In order to exclude that these patients have RSK2 mutations missed by standard mutation detection techniques, a rapid and sensitive assay allowing evaluation of RSK2 activity was needed. METHODS RSK2 capacity to phosphorylate a synthetic CREB-peptide in basal and PMA-stimulated conditions was evaluated in lymphoblasts from 3 patients with RSK2 mutations and normal controls. RESULTS Patients RSK2 activity is normal in nonstimulated conditions but fails to grow following stimulation. The evaluation of the stimulated/non-stimulated activity ratio demonstrated a statistically significant impairment in patients. CONCLUSIONS We have set up an assay which allows the identification of even partial alterations of RSK2 activity and seems to give good results also in females with a balanced X-chromosome inactivation and thus with a presumably normal enzymatic activity in about 50% of cells. Moreover, our data seem to confirm previous reports of a potential direct correlation between the level of RSK2 activity and the severity of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanna Micheli
- Biological Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Nakahata Y, Grimaldi B, Sahar S, Hirayama J, Sassone-Corsi P. Signaling to the circadian clock: plasticity by chromatin remodeling. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2007; 19:230-7. [PMID: 17317138 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2007.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2007] [Accepted: 02/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms govern several fundamental physiological functions in almost all organisms, from prokaryotes to humans. The circadian clocks are intrinsic time-tracking systems with which organisms can anticipate environmental changes and adapt to the appropriate time of day. In mammals, circadian rhythms are generated in pacemaker neurons within the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), a small area of the hypothalamus, and are entrained by environmental cues, principally light. Disruption of these rhythms can profoundly influence human health, being linked to depression, insomnia, jet lag, coronary heart disease and a variety of neurodegenerative disorders. It is now well established that circadian clocks operate via transcriptional feedback autoregulatory loops that involve the products of circadian clock genes. Furthermore, peripheral tissues also contain independent clocks, whose oscillatory function is orchestrated by the SCN. The complex program of gene expression that characterizes circadian physiology involves dynamic changes in chromatin transitions. These remodeling events are therefore of great importance to ensure the proper timing and extent of circadian regulation. How signaling influences chromatin remodeling through histone modifications is therefore highly relevant in the context of circadian oscillation. Recent advances in the field have revealed unexpected links between circadian regulators, chromatin remodeling and cellular metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasukazu Nakahata
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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