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Mukherjee SK, Papadakis JE, Arman DM, Islam J, Azim M, Rahman A, Ekramullah SM, Suchanda HS, Farooque A, Warf BC, Mazumdar M. The Importance of Neurosurgical Intervention and Surgical Timing for Management of Pediatric Patients with Myelomeningoceles in Bangladesh. World Neurosurg 2024; 187:e673-e682. [PMID: 38685347 PMCID: PMC11227413 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.04.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Reports on the management and survival of children with myelomeningocele defects in Bangladesh are limited. This study describes the characteristics and outcomes of these children, focusing on the timing of surgical repair and factors affecting survival. METHODS We enrolled patients with myelomeningoceles in a case-control study on arsenic exposure and spina bifida in Bangladesh. Cases were subsequently followed at regular intervals to assess survival. Demographic, clinical, and surgical characteristics were reviewed. Univariate tests identified factors affecting survival. RESULTS Between 2016 and 2022, we enrolled 272 patients with myelomeningocele. Postnatal surgical repair was performed in 63% of cases. However, surgery within 5 days after birth was infrequent (<10%) due to delayed presentation, and there was a high rate (29%) of preoperative deaths. Surgical repair significantly improved patient survival (P < 0.0001). Older age at time of surgery was also associated with improved survival rates, which most likely represents that those who survived to older ages prior to surgery accommodated better with their lesions. Patients who presented with ruptured lesions had lower survival rates. CONCLUSIONS Timely neurosurgical repair of myelomeningoceles in Bangladesh is hindered by late patient presentation, resulting in a high preoperative patient death rate. Neurosurgical intervention remains a significant predictor of survival. Increased access to neurosurgical care and education of families and non-neurosurgical providers on the need for timely surgical intervention are important for improving the survival of infants with myelomeningoceles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudipta Kumer Mukherjee
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Joanna E Papadakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - D M Arman
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Joynul Islam
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Asifur Rahman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sheikh Muhammad Ekramullah
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Hafiza Sultana Suchanda
- Paediatric Neurosurgery Research Committee, National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Afifah Farooque
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Benjamin C Warf
- Department of Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maitreyi Mazumdar
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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2
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Zemeskel AG, Figa Z, Gido R, Tesfa GA, Gebeyehu K, Destaw B, Abebe M, Girma B, Bimer KB, Mekonnen DK. Determinants of neural tube defect among newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care units of teaching hospitals in Gedeo Zone and Sidama Region, Southern Ethiopia: a case-control study. BMJ Paediatr Open 2024; 8:e002235. [PMID: 38844382 PMCID: PMC11163680 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2023-002235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural tube defects are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality that can occur in the early pregnancy periods. Though the burden is high, it gains only limited attention. In Ethiopia, the estimated number of neural tube defect cases was significantly higher. So, identifying factors contributing to it would be significant for planning risk reduction and preventive strategies. Therefore, identifying the possible determinants was aimed at this study. METHODS A hospital-based, unmatched case-control study was conducted on 104 cases and 208 controls selected from neonatal intensive care units of teaching hospitals in Gedeo Zone and Sidama Region, southern Ethiopia from December 2021 to November 2022. All neural tube defect cases were included consecutively and controls were selected by using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected using interviewer-administered semistructured questionnaires. Data analysis was done by using SPSS V.25. Binary logistic regression was used, and variables with a p value less than 0.25 in bivariate analysis were entered into the multivariable logistic regression model. An adjusted OR with a 95% CI was estimated, and finally, variables that show a level of p value less than 0.05 in multivariable analysis were declared statistically significant. RESULT After controlling confounders, factors such as unplanned pregnancy 2.20 (95% CI 1.20 to 4.041), history of abortions 2.09 (95% CI 1.19 to 3.67), khat chewing 6.67 (95% CI 2.95 to 15.06), antipyretic and analgesic medications 2.87 (95% CI 1.47 to 5.56) and, being a female neonate 2.11 (95% CI 1.21 to 3.67) were significantly associated with a neural tube defect. CONCLUSION This study has identified some determinants of neural tube defects. Hence, the behavioural, medical and obstetrical conditions of mothers need serious evaluation in the prepregnancy period. So, improving preconception counselling and prenatal care practices would have a significant role in reducing the risk of neural tube defects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zerihun Figa
- Department of Midwifery, Dilla University College of Health Sciences, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Rediet Gido
- Department of Midwifery, Dilla University College of Health Sciences, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | | | - Kasse Gebeyehu
- Department of Nursing, Dilla University College of Health Sciences, Dilla, Southern Ethiopia, Ethiopia
| | - Belete Destaw
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dilla University College of Health Sciences, Dilla, Southern Ethiopia, Ethiopia
| | - Mesfin Abebe
- Department of Midwifery, Dilla University College of Health Sciences, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Bekahegn Girma
- Dilla University College of Health Sciences, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Kirubel Biweta Bimer
- Pediatrics and Child health Nursing, Dilla University College of Health Sciences, Dilla, Ethiopia
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3
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Suzuki M, Yasue N, Ueno N. Differential cellular stiffness across tissues that contribute to Xenopus neural tube closure. Dev Growth Differ 2024; 66:320-328. [PMID: 38925637 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
During the formation of the neural tube, the primordium of the vertebrate central nervous system, the actomyosin activity of cells in different regions drives neural plate bending. However, how the stiffness of the neural plate and surrounding tissues is regulated and mechanically influences neural plate bending has not been elucidated. Here, we used atomic force microscopy to reveal the relationship between the stiffness of the neural plate and the mesoderm during Xenopus neural tube formation. Measurements with intact embryos revealed that the stiffness of the neural plate was consistently higher compared with the non-neural ectoderm and that it increased in an actomyosin activity-dependent manner during neural plate bending. Interestingly, measurements of isolated tissue explants also revealed that the relationship between the stiffness of the apical and basal sides of the neural plate was reversed during bending and that the stiffness of the mesoderm was lower than that of the basal side of the neural plate. The experimental elevation of mesoderm stiffness delayed neural plate bending, suggesting that low mesoderm stiffness mechanically supports neural tube closure. This study provides an example of mechanical interactions between tissues during large-scale morphogenetic movements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Suzuki
- Amphibian Research Center, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Division of Morphogenesis, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi, Japan
- Basic Biology Program, the Graduate University of Advanced Studies, Aichi, Japan
| | - Naoko Yasue
- Division of Morphogenesis, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi, Japan
| | - Naoto Ueno
- Division of Morphogenesis, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi, Japan
- Basic Biology Program, the Graduate University of Advanced Studies, Aichi, Japan
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4
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Zhu S, Li X, Dai X, Li J. Prenatal cadmium exposure impairs neural tube closure via inducing excessive apoptosis in neuroepithelium. J Environ Sci (China) 2024; 138:572-584. [PMID: 38135421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2023.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Birth defects have become a public health concern. The hazardous environmental factors exposure to embryos could increase the risk of birth defects. Cadmium, a toxic environmental factor, can cross the placental barrier during pregnancy. Pregnant woman may be subjected to cadmium before taking precautionary protective actions. However, the link between birth defects and cadmium remains obscure. Cadmium exposure can induce excessive apoptosis in neuroepithelium during embryonic development progresses. Cadmium exposure activated the p53 via enhancing the adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and reactive oxygen species' (ROS) level. And cadmium decreases the level of Paired box 3 (Pax3) and murine double minute 2 (Mdm2), disrupting the process of p53 ubiquitylation. And p53 accumulation induced excessive apoptosis in neuroepithelium during embryonic development progresses. Excessive apoptosis led to the failure of neural tube closure. The study emphasizes that environmental materials may increase the health risk for embryos. Cadmium caused the failure of neural tube closure during early embryotic day. Pregnant women may be exposed by cadmium before taking precautionary protective actions, because of cadmium concentration-containing foods and environmental tobacco smoking. This suggests that prenatal cadmium exposure is a threatening risk factor for birth defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyong Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xuenan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xueyan Dai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jinlong Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China.
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Lu L, Bai M, Zheng Y, Wang X, Chen Z, Peng R, Finnell RH, Zhao T, Li C, Wu B, Lei Y, Li J, Wang H. The interaction of endorepellin and neurexin triggers neuroepithelial autophagy and maintains neural tube development. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2024:S2095-9273(24)00182-8. [PMID: 38702277 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2024.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate proteoglycan 2 (HSPG2) gene encodes the matrix protein Perlecan, and genetic inactivation of this gene creates mice that are embryonic lethal with severe neural tube defects (NTDs). We discovered rare genetic variants of HSPG2 in 10% cases compared to only 4% in controls among a cohort of 369 NTDs. Endorepellin, a peptide cleaved from the domain V of Perlecan, is known to promote angiogenesis and autophagy in endothelial cells. The roles of enderepellin in neurodevelopment remain unclear so far. Our study revealed that endorepellin can migrate to the neuroepithelial cells and then be recognized and bind with the neuroepithelia receptor neurexin in vivo. Through the endocytic pathway, the interaction of endorepellin and neurexin physiologically triggers autophagy and appropriately modulates the differentiation of neural stem cells into neurons as a blocker, which is necessary for normal neural tube closure. We created knock-in (KI) mouse models with human-derived HSPG2 variants, using sperm-like stem cells that had been genetically edited by CRISPR/Cas9. We realized that any HSPG2 variants that affected the function of endorepellin were considered pathogenic causal variants for human NTDs given that the severe NTD phenotypes exhibited by these KI embryos occurred in a significantly higher response frequency compared to wildtype embryos. Our study provides a paradigm for effectively confirming pathogenic mutations in other genetic diseases. Furthermore, we demonstrated that using autophagy inhibitors at a cellular level can repress neuronal differentiation. Therefore, autophagy agonists may prevent NTDs resulting from failed autophagy maintenance and neuronal over-differentiation caused by deleterious endorepellin variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Meizhu Bai
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yufang Zheng
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, The Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Xiukun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Zhongzhong Chen
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Rui Peng
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, The Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200090, China
| | - Richard H Finnell
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Tongjin Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Chengtao Li
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Bo Wu
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center of Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen 518028, China
| | - Yunping Lei
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA.
| | - Jinsong Li
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Prenatal Diagnosis Center of Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen 518028, China; Children's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China.
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6
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Wang W, Ji Y, Dong Z, Liu Z, Chen S, Dai L, Su X, Jiang Q, Deng H. Characterizing neuroinflammation and identifying prenatal diagnostic markers for neural tube defects through integrated multi-omics analysis. J Transl Med 2024; 22:257. [PMID: 38461288 PMCID: PMC10924416 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05051-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) are congenital malformations of the central nervous system resulting from the incomplete closure of the neural tube during early embryonic development. Neuroinflammation refers to the inflammatory response in the nervous system, typically resulting from damage to neural tissue. Immune-related processes have been identified in NTDs, however, the detailed relationship and underlying mechanisms between neuroinflammation and NTDs remain largely unclear. In this study, we utilized integrated multi-omics analysis to explore the role of neuroinflammation in NTDs and identify potential prenatal diagnostic markers using a murine model. METHODS Nine public datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and ArrayExpress were mined using integrated multi-omics analysis to characterize the molecular landscape associated with neuroinflammation in NTDs. Special attention was given to the involvement of macrophages in neuroinflammation within amniotic fluid, as well as the dynamics of macrophage polarization and their interactions with neural cells at single-cell resolution. We also used qPCR assay to validate the key TFs and candidate prenatal diagnostic genes identified through the integrated analysis in a retinoic acid-induced NTDs mouse model. RESULTS Our analysis indicated that neuroinflammation is a critical pathological feature of NTDs, regulated both transcriptionally and epigenetically within central nervous system tissues. Key alterations in gene expression and pathways highlighted the crucial role of STATs molecules in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway in regulating NTDs-associated neuroinflammation. Furthermore, single-cell resolution analysis revealed significant polarization of macrophages and their interaction with neural cells in amniotic fluid, underscoring their central role in mediating neuroinflammation associated with NTDs. Finally, we identified a set of six potential prenatal diagnostic genes, including FABP7, CRMP1, SCG3, SLC16A10, RNASE6 and RNASE1, which were subsequently validated in a murine NTDs model, indicating their promise as prospective markers for prenatal diagnosis of NTDs. CONCLUSIONS Our study emphasizes the pivotal role of neuroinflammation in the progression of NTDs and underlines the potential of specific inflammatory and neural markers as novel prenatal diagnostic tools. These findings provide important clues for further understanding the underlying mechanisms between neuroinflammation and NTDs, and offer valuable insights for the future development of prenatal diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshuang Wang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanhong Ji
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhexu Dong
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zheran Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Dai
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolan Su
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qingyuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics, Sichuan Provincial Hospital for Women and Children, Chengdu, China.
| | - Hongxin Deng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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7
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V RP, Finnell RH, Ross ME, Alarcón P, Suazo J. Neural tube defects and epigenetics: role of histone post-translational histone modifications. Epigenomics 2024; 16:419-426. [PMID: 38410929 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are the most common congenital anomalies of the CNS. It is widely appreciated that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to their etiology. The inability to ascribe clear genetic patterns of inheritance to various NTD phenotypes suggests it is possible that epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the etiology of NTDs. In this context, the contribution of DNA methylation as an underlying contributing factor to the etiology of NTDs has been extensively reviewed. Here, an updated accounting of the evidence linking post-translational histone modifications to these birth defects, relying heavily upon studies in humans, and the possible molecular implications inferred from reports based on cellular and animal models, are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Pardo V
- Section of Genetics, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca Tobar #999, Santiago, Chile
- Unit of Neonatology, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca Tobar #999, Santiago, Chile
| | - Richard H Finnell
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M Elizabeth Ross
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain & Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 407 East 61st Street, NY, USA
| | - Pablo Alarcón
- Section of Genetics, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca Tobar #999, Santiago, Chile
- Section of Genetics, Hospital Sótero del Río, Avenida Concha y Toro #3459, Santiago, Chile
| | - José Suazo
- Institute for Research in Dental Sciences, School of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Olivos #943, Santiago, Chile
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Oxman E, Li H, Wang HY, Zohn IE. Identification and functional analysis of rare HECTD1 missense variants in human neural tube defects. Hum Genet 2024; 143:263-277. [PMID: 38451291 PMCID: PMC11043113 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-024-02647-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe malformations of the central nervous system that arise from failure of neural tube closure. HECTD1 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase required for cranial neural tube closure in mouse models. NTDs in the Hectd1 mutant mouse model are due to the failure of cranial mesenchyme morphogenesis during neural fold elevation. Our earlier research has linked increased extracellular heat shock protein 90 (eHSP90) secretion to aberrant cranial mesenchyme morphogenesis in the Hectd1 model. Furthermore, overexpression of HECTD1 suppresses stress-induced eHSP90 secretion in cell lines. In this study, we report the identification of five rare HECTD1 missense sequence variants in NTD cases. The variants were found through targeted next-generation sequencing in a Chinese cohort of 352 NTD cases and 224 ethnically matched controls. We present data showing that HECTD1 is a highly conserved gene, extremely intolerant to loss-of-function mutations and missense changes. To evaluate the functional consequences of NTD-associated missense variants, functional assays in HEK293T cells were performed to examine protein expression and the ability of HECTD1 sequence variants to suppress eHSP90 secretion. One NTD-associated variant (A1084T) had significantly reduced expression in HEK293T cells. All five NTD-associated variants (p.M392V, p.T801I, p.I906V, p.A1084T, and p.P1835L) reduced regulation of eHSP90 secretion by HECTD1, while a putative benign variant (p.P2474L) did not. These findings are the first association of HECTD1 sequence variation with NTDs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Oxman
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Research and Innovation Campus, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, 20012, USA
| | - Huili Li
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Hong-Yan Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, State Key Laboratory of Genetic, Engineering at School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Irene E Zohn
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Research and Innovation Campus, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, 20012, USA.
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Xia B, Zhang W, Zhao G, Zhang X, Bai J, Brosh R, Wudzinska A, Huang E, Ashe H, Ellis G, Pour M, Zhao Y, Coelho C, Zhu Y, Miller A, Dasen JS, Maurano MT, Kim SY, Boeke JD, Yanai I. On the genetic basis of tail-loss evolution in humans and apes. Nature 2024; 626:1042-1048. [PMID: 38418917 PMCID: PMC10901737 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07095-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The loss of the tail is among the most notable anatomical changes to have occurred along the evolutionary lineage leading to humans and to the 'anthropomorphous apes'1-3, with a proposed role in contributing to human bipedalism4-6. Yet, the genetic mechanism that facilitated tail-loss evolution in hominoids remains unknown. Here we present evidence that an individual insertion of an Alu element in the genome of the hominoid ancestor may have contributed to tail-loss evolution. We demonstrate that this Alu element-inserted into an intron of the TBXT gene7-9-pairs with a neighbouring ancestral Alu element encoded in the reverse genomic orientation and leads to a hominoid-specific alternative splicing event. To study the effect of this splicing event, we generated multiple mouse models that express both full-length and exon-skipped isoforms of Tbxt, mimicking the expression pattern of its hominoid orthologue TBXT. Mice expressing both Tbxt isoforms exhibit a complete absence of the tail or a shortened tail depending on the relative abundance of Tbxt isoforms expressed at the embryonic tail bud. These results support the notion that the exon-skipped transcript is sufficient to induce a tail-loss phenotype. Moreover, mice expressing the exon-skipped Tbxt isoform develop neural tube defects, a condition that affects approximately 1 in 1,000 neonates in humans10. Thus, tail-loss evolution may have been associated with an adaptive cost of the potential for neural tube defects, which continue to affect human health today.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Xia
- Institute for Computational Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
- Gene Regulation Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Society of Fellows, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Weimin Zhang
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Guisheng Zhao
- Institute for Computational Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xinru Zhang
- Gene Regulation Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Jiangshan Bai
- Gene Regulation Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ran Brosh
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Emily Huang
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hannah Ashe
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gwen Ellis
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maayan Pour
- Institute for Computational Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yu Zhao
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Camila Coelho
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yinan Zhu
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Miller
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeremy S Dasen
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew T Maurano
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sang Y Kim
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jef D Boeke
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Itai Yanai
- Institute for Computational Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
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Wang G, Song S, Shen WB, Reece EA, Yang P. MicroRNA-322 overexpression reduces neural tube defects in diabetic pregnancies. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:254.e1-254.e13. [PMID: 37531989 PMCID: PMC10828117 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperglycemia from pregestational diabetes mellitus induces neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Folate supplementation is the only effective way to prevent neural tube defects; however, some cases of neural tube defects are resistant to folate. Excess folate has been linked to higher maternal cancer risk and infant allergy. Therefore, additional interventions are needed. Understanding the mechanisms underlying maternal diabetes mellitus-induced neural tube defects can identify potential targets for preventing such defects. Despite not yet being in clinical use, growing evidence suggests that microRNAs are important intermediates in embryonic development and can serve as both biomarkers and drug targets for disease intervention. Our previous studies showed that maternal diabetes mellitus in vivo activates the inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1α (IRE1α) in the developing embryo and that a high glucose condition in vitro reduces microRNA-322 (miR-322) levels. IRE1α is an RNA endonuclease; however, it is unknown whether IRE1α targets and degrades miR-322 specifically or whether miR-322 degradation leads to neural tube defects via apoptosis. We hypothesize that IRE1α can inhibit miR-322 in maternal diabetes mellitus-induced neural tube defects and that restoring miR-322 expression in developing neuroepithelium ameliorates neural tube defects. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify potential targets for preventing maternal diabetes mellitus-induced neural tube defects and to investigate the roles and relationship of a microRNA and an RNA endonuclease in mouse embryos exposed to maternal diabetes mellitus. STUDY DESIGN To determine whether miR-322 reduction is necessary for neural tube defect formation in pregnancies complicated by diabetes mellitus, male mice carrying a transgene expressing miR-322 were mated with nondiabetic or diabetic wide-type female mice to generate embryos with or without miR-322 overexpression. At embryonic day 8.5 when the neural tube is not yet closed, embryos were harvested for the assessment of 3 miR-322 transcripts (primary, precursor, and mature miR-322), tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3 (TRAF3), and neuroepithelium cell survival. Neural tube defect incidences were determined in embryonic day 10.5 embryos when the neural tube should be closed if there is no neural tube defect formation. To identify which miR-322 transcript is affected by maternal diabetes mellitus and high glucose conditions, 3 miR-322 transcripts were assessed in embryos from dams with or without diabetes mellitus and in C17.2 mouse neural stem cells treated with different concentrations of glucose and at different time points. To determine whether the endonuclease IRE1α targets miR-322, small interfering RNA knockdown of IRE1α or overexpression of inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1α by DNA plasmid transfection was used to determine the effect of IRE1α deficiency or overexpression on miR-322 expression. RNA immunoprecipitation was performed to reveal the direct targets of inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1α. RESULTS Maternal diabetes mellitus suppressed miR-322 expression in the developing neuroepithelium. Restoring miR-322 expression in the neuroepithelium blocked maternal diabetes mellitus-induced caspase-3 and caspase-8 cleavage and cell apoptosis, leading to a neural tube defect reduction. Reversal of maternal diabetes mellitus-inhibited miR-322 via transgenic overexpression prevented TRAF3 up-regulation in embryos exposed to maternal diabetes mellitus. Activated IRE1α acted as an endonuclease and degraded precursor miR-322, resulting in mature miR-322 reduction. CONCLUSION This study supports the crucial role of the IRE1α-microRNA-TRAF3 circuit in the induction of neuroepithelial cell apoptosis and neural tube defect formation in pregnancies complicated by diabetes mellitus and identifies IRE1α and miR-322 as potential targets for preventing maternal diabetes mellitus-induced neural tube defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanglei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Shicong Song
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Wei-Bin Shen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - E Albert Reece
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Peixin Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
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11
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Matthew J, Vishwakarma V, Le TP, Agsunod RA, Chung S. Coordination of cell cycle and morphogenesis during organ formation. eLife 2024; 13:e95830. [PMID: 38275142 PMCID: PMC10869137 DOI: 10.7554/elife.95830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Organ formation requires precise regulation of cell cycle and morphogenetic events. Using the Drosophila embryonic salivary gland (SG) as a model, we uncover the role of the SP1/KLF transcription factor Huckebein (Hkb) in coordinating cell cycle regulation and morphogenesis. The hkb mutant SG exhibits defects in invagination positioning and organ size due to the abnormal death of SG cells. Normal SG development involves distal-to-proximal progression of endoreplication (endocycle), whereas hkb mutant SG cells undergo abnormal cell division, leading to cell death. Hkb represses the expression of key cell cycle and pro-apoptotic genes in the SG. Knockdown of cyclin E or cyclin-dependent kinase 1, or overexpression of fizzy-related rescues most of the morphogenetic defects observed in the hkb mutant SG. These results indicate that Hkb plays a critical role in controlling endoreplication by regulating the transcription of key cell cycle effectors to ensure proper organ formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Matthew
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State UniversityBaton RougeUnited States
| | - Vishakha Vishwakarma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State UniversityBaton RougeUnited States
| | - Thao Phuong Le
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State UniversityBaton RougeUnited States
| | - Ryan A Agsunod
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State UniversityBaton RougeUnited States
| | - SeYeon Chung
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State UniversityBaton RougeUnited States
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12
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Paudel S, Yue M, Nalamalapu R, Saha MS. Deciphering the Calcium Code: A Review of Calcium Activity Analysis Methods Employed to Identify Meaningful Activity in Early Neural Development. Biomolecules 2024; 14:138. [PMID: 38275767 PMCID: PMC10813340 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The intracellular and intercellular flux of calcium ions represents an ancient and universal mode of signaling that regulates an extensive array of cellular processes. Evidence for the central role of calcium signaling includes various techniques that allow the visualization of calcium activity in living cells. While extensively investigated in mature cells, calcium activity is equally important in developing cells, particularly the embryonic nervous system where it has been implicated in a wide variety array of determinative events. However, unlike in mature cells, where the calcium dynamics display regular, predictable patterns, calcium activity in developing systems is far more sporadic, irregular, and diverse. This renders the ability to assess calcium activity in a consistent manner extremely challenging, challenges reflected in the diversity of methods employed to analyze calcium activity in neural development. Here we review the wide array of calcium detection and analysis methods used across studies, limiting the extent to which they can be comparatively analyzed. The goal is to provide investigators not only with an overview of calcium activity analysis techniques currently available, but also to offer suggestions for future work and standardization to enable informative comparative evaluations of this fundamental and important process in neural development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudip Paudel
- Wyss Institute, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (S.P.); (M.Y.)
| | - Michelle Yue
- Wyss Institute, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (S.P.); (M.Y.)
| | - Rithvik Nalamalapu
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA;
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13
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Oxman E, Li H, Wang HY, Zohn I. Identification and Functional Analysis of Rare HECTD1 Missense Variants in Human Neural Tube Defects. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3794712. [PMID: 38260607 PMCID: PMC10802691 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3794712/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe malformations of the central nervous system that arise from failure of neural tube closure. HECTD1 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase required for cranial neural tube closure in mouse models. NTDs in the Hectd1 mutant mouse model are due to the failure of cranial mesenchyme morphogenesis during neural fold elevation. Our earlier research has linked increased secretion of extracellular heat shock protein 90 (eHSP90) to aberrant cranial mesenchyme morphogenesis in the Hectd1 model. Furthermore, overexpression of HECTD1 suppresses stress-induced eHSP90 secretion in cell lines. In this study, we report the identification of five rare HECTD1 missense sequence variants in NTD cases. The variants were found through targeted next-generation sequencing in a Chinese cohort of 352 NTD cases and 224 ethnically matched controls. We present data showing that HECTD1 is a highly conserved gene, extremely intolerant to loss-of-function mutations and missense changes. To evaluate the functional consequences of NTD-associated missense variants, functional assays in HEK293T cells were performed to examine protein expression and the ability of HECTD1 sequence variants to suppress eHSP90 secretion. One NTD-associated variant (A1084T) had significantly reduced expression in HEK293T cells. All five NTD-associated variants (p.M392V, p.T801I, p.I906V, p.A1084T, and p.P1835L) reduced regulation of eHSP90 secretion by HECTD1, while a putative benign variant (p.P2474L) did not. These findings are the first association of HECTD1 sequence variation with human disease and suggest that sequence variation in HECTD1 may play a role in the etiology of human NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Huili Li
- University of Colorado at Boulder
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14
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Matsuda M, Rozman J, Ostvar S, Kasza KE, Sokol SY. Mechanical control of neural plate folding by apical domain alteration. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8475. [PMID: 38123550 PMCID: PMC10733383 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43973-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate neural tube closure is associated with complex changes in cell shape and behavior, however, the relative contribution of these processes to tissue folding is not well understood. At the onset of Xenopus neural tube folding, we observed alternation of apically constricted and apically expanded cells. This apical domain heterogeneity was accompanied by biased cell orientation along the anteroposterior axis, especially at neural plate hinges, and required planar cell polarity signaling. Vertex models suggested that dispersed isotropically constricting cells can cause the elongation of adjacent cells. Consistently, in ectoderm, cell-autonomous apical constriction was accompanied by neighbor expansion. Thus, a subset of isotropically constricting cells may initiate neural plate bending, whereas a 'tug-of-war' contest between the force-generating and responding cells reduces its shrinking along the body axis. This mechanism is an alternative to anisotropic shrinking of cell junctions that are perpendicular to the body axis. We propose that apical domain changes reflect planar polarity-dependent mechanical forces operating during neural folding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Matsuda
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jan Rozman
- Rudolf Peierls Centre for Theoretical Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sassan Ostvar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karen E Kasza
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sergei Y Sokol
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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Li X, Pei P, Shen J, Yu J, Wang F, Wang L, Liu C, Wang S. Folate deficiency reduced aberrant level of DOT1L-mediated histone H3K79 methylation causes disruptive SHH gene expression involved in neural tube defects. Epigenetics Chromatin 2023; 16:50. [PMID: 38093377 PMCID: PMC10720071 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-023-00517-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural tube defects (NTDs) are one of the most severe congenital abnormalities characterized by failures of the neural tube to close during early embryogenesis. Maternal folate deficiency could impact the occurrence of NTDs, however, the mechanisms involved in the cause of NTDs are poorly defined. RESULTS Here, we report that histone H3 methyltransferase disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like (DOT1L) expression was significantly downregulated, and low levels of H3K79me2 were found in the corresponding NTDs samples with their maternal serum folate under low levels. Using ChIP-seq assays, we found that a decrease of H3K79me2 downregulates the expression of Shh and Sufu in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC) under folate deficiency. Interestingly, folate antagonist methotrexate treatment led to attenuation of H3K79me2 due to Dot1l, affecting Shh and Sufu genes regulation. Upon further analysis, we find that the genes Shh and Sufu are both downregulated in the brain tissues of mice and humans with NTDs. There was a positive correlation between the transcription levels of Shh, Sufu and the protein levels of DOT1L by Pearson correlation analysis. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that abnormal Shh and Sufu genes expression reduced by aberrant Dot1l-mediated H3K79me2 levels could be the cause of NTDs occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, 261041, Shandong, China
- School of Clinical Medical, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jinying Shen
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Juan Yu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Changyun Liu
- School of Clinical Medical, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China.
| | - Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China.
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16
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Berhane A, Belachew T. Determinants of neural tube defects among women who gave birth in hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia: evidence from a matched case control study. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:662. [PMID: 38071290 PMCID: PMC10710723 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02796-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe birth defects caused by nutritional, genetic or environmental factors. Because NTDs continue to have a significant health and economic impact on children and community at large, it is crucial to investigate potential risk factors in order to develop novel approaches to NTDs prevention. Determinants for the development of NTDs differ by country, region as well as within the country. The objective of this study was to identify the determinants of NTDs among newborns delivered in three hospitals found in eastern Ethiopia. METHODS A hospital-based matched case-control study was conducted among 138 cases and 138 control women who delivered in three teaching hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia in 2021. Data were collected using a structured and pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Cases were mothers who delivered a neonate with any type of NTDs regardless of gestational age or fetal viability, whereas controls were mothers who delivered an apparently healthy newborn. Chi-square was used to assess the significant difference between the two groups. Conditional logistic regression model was used to generate adjusted odds ratio with its corresponding 95% confidence intervals and compare the two groups. RESULTS Anencephaly (51.4%) and spinal bifida (34.1%) were the most frequently observed NTDs. None of study participants took preconception folic acid supplementation. Being a non-formal mothers (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.12-0.92, P = 0.034), rural residence, (AOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.18-9.78, P = 0.023), history of spontaneous abortion (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI: 1.15-7.55, P = 0.023), having severe anemia (AOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.17-9.87, P = 0.024), history of fever or cold (AOR = 2.75; 95% CI: 1.05-7.15, P = 0.038), and an exposure to various agro-chemicals (AOR = 3.39, 95% CI: 1.11-10.3, P = 0.032) were independent determinants of NTDs. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION In this study, NTDs were associated to several determinant factors in the area, including residential area, history of spontaneous abortion, severe anemia, fever/cold, antibiotic use before or during early pregnancy, and exposure to agrochemicals. Addressing the identified determinants is critical in averting the incidence of NTDs in the study area. Moreover, more research is needed to investigate women's dietary practices as well as the practice of preconception folic acid supplementation for pregnant women in Ethiopia's current health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anteneh Berhane
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia.
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Public Health, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.
| | - Tefera Belachew
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Public Health, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Kim SE, Chothani PJ, Shaik R, Pollard W, Finnell RH. Pax3 lineage-specific deletion of Gpr161 is associated with spinal neural tube and craniofacial malformations during embryonic development. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050277. [PMID: 37885410 PMCID: PMC10694864 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling is the morphogen signaling that regulates embryonic craniofacial and neural tube development. G protein-coupled receptor 161 (Gpr161) is a negative regulator of Shh signaling, and its inactivation in mice results in embryo lethality associated with craniofacial defects and neural tube defects. However, the structural defects of later embryonic stages and cell lineages underlying abnormalities have not been well characterized due to the limited lifespan of Gpr161 null mice. We found that embryos with Pax3 lineage-specific deletion of Gpr161 presented with tectal hypertrophy (anterior dorsal neuroepithelium), cranial vault and facial bone hypoplasia (cranial neural crest), vertebral abnormalities (somite) and the closed form of spina bifida (posterior dorsal neuroepithelium). In particular, the closed form of spina bifida was partly due to reduced Pax3 and Cdx4 gene expression in the posterior dorsal neural tubes of Gpr161 mutant embryos with decreased Wnt signaling, whereas Shh signaling was increased. We describe a previously unreported role for Gpr161 in the development of posterior neural tubes and confirm its role in cranial neural crest- and somite-derived skeletogenesis and midbrain morphogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Eun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, USA
| | - Pooja J. Chothani
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, USA
| | - Rehana Shaik
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, USA
| | - Westley Pollard
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, USA
| | - Richard H. Finnell
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78723, USA
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Wang S, He X, Wang Y, Zeng Y, Pei P, Zhan X, Zhang M, Zhang T. Intergenerational association of gut microbiota and metabolism with perinatal folate metabolism and neural tube defects. iScience 2023; 26:107514. [PMID: 37636040 PMCID: PMC10457452 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Disorders of folic acid metabolism during pregnancy lead to fetal neural tube defects (NTDs). However, the mechanisms still require further investigation. Here, we aim to analyze the brain metabolic profiles of 30 NTDs and 30 healthy fetuses. Our results indicated that low-folate diet during early life played a causal role in cerebral metabolism, especially in lipometabolic disturbance, highlighting the importance of folate in modulating brain development and metabolism. Next, we established a mouse model of NTDs. Interestingly, the differential metabolites are mainly involved in glycerophospholipid metabolism and biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids both in human and mice fetal brain. Since intestinal microbes could critically regulate neurofunction via the intestinal-brain axis, we further found the abundances of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in the gut of pregnant mice were correlated with the abundances of lipid metabolism related metabolites in the fetal brain. This finding probably reflects the intergenerational microbial-metabolism biomarkers of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xuejia He
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yubing Zeng
- Children’s Hospital Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhan
- Otorhinolaryngologic Department, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing 100020, China
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Keuls RA, Finnell RH, Parchem RJ. Maternal metabolism influences neural tube closure. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2023; 34:539-553. [PMID: 37468429 PMCID: PMC10529122 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Changes in maternal nutrient availability due to diet or disease significantly increase the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs). Because the incidence of metabolic disease continues to rise, it is urgent that we better understand how altered maternal nutrient levels can influence embryonic neural tube development. Furthermore, primary neurulation occurs before placental function during a period of histiotrophic nutrient exchange. In this review we detail how maternal metabolites are transported by the yolk sac to the developing embryo. We discuss recent advances in understanding how altered maternal levels of essential nutrients disrupt development of the neuroepithelium, and identify points of intersection between metabolic pathways that are crucial for NTD prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Keuls
- Development, Disease Models, and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Richard H Finnell
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ronald J Parchem
- Development, Disease Models, and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Kim SE, Chothani PJ, Shaik R, Pollard W, Finnell RH. Pax3 lineage-specific deletion of Gpr161 is associated with spinal neural tube and craniofacial malformations during embryonic development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.07.548129. [PMID: 37461574 PMCID: PMC10350067 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.07.548129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Shh signaling is the morphogen signaling that regulates embryonic craniofacial and neural tube development. G protein-coupled receptor 161 (Gpr161) is a negative regulator of Shh signaling, and its inactivation in mice results in embryo lethality with craniofacial and neural tube defects (NTDs). However, the structural defects of later embryonic stages in Gpr161 null mice and cell lineages underlying abnormalities were not well characterized due to their limited lifespan. We found the Pax3 lineage-specific deletion of Gpr161 in mice presented with tectal hypertrophy (anterior dorsal neuroepithelium), cranial vault and facial bone hypoplasia (cranial neural crest (CNC)), vertebral abnormalities (somite), and the closed form of spina bifida (posterior dorsal neuroepithelium). In particular, the closed form of spina bifida is partly due to the reduced Pax3 and Cdx4 gene expression of the posterior dorsal neural tubes of Gpr161 mutant embryos involving decreased Wnt signaling whereas Shh signaling was increased. This study provides the novel role of Gpr161 in the posterior neural tube development and confirms its role on CNC- and somite-derived skeletogenesis and midbrain morphogenesis in mice.
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Zemet R, Krispin E, Johnson RM, Kumar NR, Westerfield LE, Stover S, Mann DG, Castillo J, Castillo HA, Nassr AA, Sanz Cortes M, Donepudi R, Espinoza J, Whitehead WE, Belfort MA, Shamshirsaz AA, Van den Veyver IB. Implication of chromosomal microarray analysis prior to in-utero repair of fetal open neural tube defect. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 61:719-727. [PMID: 36610024 PMCID: PMC10238557 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In-utero repair of open neural tube defects (ONTD) is an accepted treatment option with demonstrated superior outcome for eligible patients. While current guidelines recommend genetic testing by chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) when a major congenital anomaly is detected prenatally, the requirement for an in-utero repair, based on the Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) criteria, is a normal karyotype. In this study, we aimed to evaluate if CMA should be recommended as a prerequisite for in-utero ONTD repair. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of pregnancies complicated by ONTD that underwent laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic repair or open-hysterotomy fetal surgery at a single tertiary center between September 2011 and July 2021. All patients met the MOMS eligibility criteria and had a normal karyotype. In a subset of the pregnancies (n = 77), CMA testing was also conducted. We reviewed the CMA results and divided the cohort into two groups according to whether clinically reportable copy-number variants (CNV) were detected (reportable-CNV group) or not (normal-CMA group). Surgical characteristics, complications, and maternal and early neonatal outcomes were compared between the two groups. The primary outcomes were fetal or neonatal death, hydrocephalus, motor function at 12 months of age and walking status at 30 months of age. Standard parametric and non-parametric statistical tests were employed as appropriate. RESULTS During the study period, 146 fetuses with ONTD were eligible for and underwent in-utero repair. CMA results were available for 77 (52.7%) patients. Of those, 65 (84%) had a normal CMA and 12 (16%) had a reportable CNV, two of which were classified as pathogenic. The first case with a pathogenic CNV was diagnosed with a 749-kb central 22q11.21 deletion spanning low-copy-repeat regions B-D of chromosome 22; the second case was diagnosed with a 1.3-Mb interstitial deletion at 1q21.1q21.2. Maternal demographics, clinical characteristics, operative data and postoperative complications were similar between those with normal CMA results and those with reportable CNVs. There were no significant differences in gestational age at delivery or any obstetric and early neonatal outcome between the study groups. Motor function at birth and at 12 months of age, and walking status at 30 months of age, were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Standard diagnostic testing with CMA should be offered when an ONTD is detected prenatally, as this approach has implications for counseling regarding prognosis and recurrence risk. Our results indicate that the presence of a clinically reportable CNV should not a priori affect eligibility for in-utero repair, as overall pregnancy outcome is similar in these cases to that of cases with normal CMA. Nevertheless, significant CMA results will require a case-by-case multidisciplinary discussion to evaluate eligibility. To generalize the conclusion of this single-center series, a larger, multicenter long-term study should be considered. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Zemet
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - E. Krispin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R. M. Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - N. R. Kumar
- School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - L. E. Westerfield
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal–Fetal Medicine and Reproductive and Prenatal Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - S. Stover
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - D. G. Mann
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Clinical Ethics, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J. Castillo
- Division of Developmental Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - H. A. Castillo
- Division of Developmental Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A. A. Nassr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M. Sanz Cortes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R. Donepudi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J. Espinoza
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - W. E. Whitehead
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M. A. Belfort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A. A. Shamshirsaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - I. B. Van den Veyver
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy and Surgery and Maternal–Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal–Fetal Medicine and Reproductive and Prenatal Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Rai S, Leydier L, Sharma S, Katwala J, Sahu A. A quest for genetic causes underlying signaling pathways associated with neural tube defects. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1126209. [PMID: 37284286 PMCID: PMC10241075 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1126209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are serious congenital deformities of the nervous system that occur owing to the failure of normal neural tube closures. Genetic and non-genetic factors contribute to the etiology of neural tube defects in humans, indicating the role of gene-gene and gene-environment interaction in the occurrence and recurrence risk of neural tube defects. Several lines of genetic studies on humans and animals demonstrated the role of aberrant genes in the developmental risk of neural tube defects and also provided an understanding of the cellular and morphological programs that occur during embryonic development. Other studies observed the effects of folate and supplementation of folic acid on neural tube defects. Hence, here we review what is known to date regarding altered genes associated with specific signaling pathways resulting in NTDs, as well as highlight the role of various genetic, and non-genetic factors and their interactions that contribute to NTDs. Additionally, we also shine a light on the role of folate and cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) in neural tube defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Rai
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical University of the Americas, Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Larissa Leydier
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical University of the Americas, Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Shivani Sharma
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical University of the Americas, Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Jigar Katwala
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical University of the Americas, Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Anurag Sahu
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
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23
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Wang X, Yang C, Ru Y, Xie L, Xiao B, Jin X, Ma C, Chai Z, Fan H. An optimal combination of five main monomer components in Wuzi Yanzong Pill that prevents neural tube defects and reduces apoptosis and oxidative stress. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 313:116540. [PMID: 37088238 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Wuzi Yanzong pill (WYP) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula that is used for reproductive system diseases. Previous studies showed that WYP had a preventive effect on the development of neural tube defects (NTDs) induced by all-trans retinoic acid (atRA) in mice. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to determine the optimal combination of main monomer components in WYP on preventing NTDs and to understand the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS An optimal combination was made from five representative components in WYP including hyperoside, acteoside, schizandrol A, kaempferide and ellagic acid by orthogonal design method. In a mouse model of NTDs induced by intraperitoneal injection of atRA, pathological changes of neural tube tissues were observed by Hematoxylin & Eosin (HE) staining, neural tube epithelial cells apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL), protein changes related to apoptosis, anti-apoptosis, and antioxidant factors were detected with Western blot. Potential targets and mechanisms of monomer compatibility group (MCG) acting on NTDs were analyzed by bioinformatics. RESULTS Treatment with different combinations of WYP bioactive ingredients resulted in varying decreases in the incidence of NTDs in mice embryos. The combination of MCG15 (200 mg/kg of hyperoside, 100 mg/kg of acteoside, 10 mg/kg of schizandrol A, 100 mg/kg of kaempferide and 1 mg/kg of ellagic acid) showed the most significant reduction in NTD incidence. Mechanistically, MCG15 inhibited apoptosis and oxidative stress, as evidenced by reduced TUNEL-positive cells, downregulation of caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, Bad, and Bax, and upregulation of Bcl-2, as well as decreased MDA and increased SOD, CAT, GSH, HO-1, and GPX1 levels. Bioinformatics analysis showed that MCG15 acted on the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which was confirmed by Western blot analysis showing increased expression of p-PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and Nrf2 related indicators. CONCLUSION We have identified an optimal combination of five bioactive components in WYP (MCG15) that prevented NTDs in mice embryos induced by atRA by activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinliang Wang
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Neurobiology Research Center, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Chanjuan Yang
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Neurobiology Research Center, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Yi Ru
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Neurobiology Research Center, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Liangqi Xie
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Neurobiology Research Center, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Baoguo Xiao
- Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xiaoming Jin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Department of Neurological Surgery, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute. Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Cungen Ma
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Neurobiology Research Center, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China.
| | - Zhi Chai
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Neurobiology Research Center, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China.
| | - Huijie Fan
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Neurobiology Research Center, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China.
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24
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Advances in Fetal Surgical Repair of Open Spina Bifida. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 141:505-521. [PMID: 36735401 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Spina bifida remains a common congenital anomaly of the central nervous system despite national fortification of foods with folic acid, with a prevalence of 2-4 per 10,000 live births. Prenatal screening for the early detection of this condition provides patients with the opportunity to consider various management options during pregnancy. Prenatal repair of open spina bifida, traditionally performed by the open maternal-fetal surgical approach through hysterotomy, has been shown to improve outcomes for the child, including decreased need for cerebrospinal fluid diversion surgery and improved lower neuromotor function. However, the open maternal-fetal surgical approach is associated with relatively increased risk for the patient and the overall pregnancy, as well as future pregnancies. Recent advances in minimally invasive prenatal repair of open spina bifida through fetoscopy have shown similar benefits for the child but relatively improved outcomes for the pregnant patient and future childbearing.
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25
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Matsuda M, Rozman J, Ostvar S, Kasza KE, Sokol SY. Mechanical control of neural plate folding by apical domain alteration. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.10.528047. [PMID: 36798359 PMCID: PMC9934705 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.10.528047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Vertebrate neural tube closure is associated with complex changes in cell shape and behavior, however, the relative contribution of these processes to tissue folding is not well understood. In this study, we evaluated morphology of the superficial cell layer in the Xenopus neural plate. At the stages corresponding to the onset of tissue folding, we observed the alternation of cells with apically constricting and apically expanding apical domains. The cells had a biased orientation along the anteroposterior (AP) axis. This apical domain heterogeneity required planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling and was especially pronounced at neural plate hinges. Vertex model simulations suggested that spatially dispersed isotropically constricting cells cause the elongation of their non-constricting counterparts along the AP axis. Consistent with this hypothesis, cell-autonomous induction of apical constriction in Xenopus ectoderm cells was accompanied by the expansion of adjacent non-constricting cells. Our observations indicate that a subset of isotropically constricting cells can initiate neural plate bending, whereas a 'tug-of-war' contest between the force-generating and responding cells reduces its shrinking along the AP axis. This mechanism is an alternative to anisotropic shrinking of cell junctions that are perpendicular to the body axis. We propose that neural folding relies on PCP-dependent transduction of mechanical signals between neuroepithelial cells.
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26
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Wang Y, Zhang K, Guo J, Yang S, Shi X, Pan J, Sun Z, Zou J, Li Y, Li Y, Fan T, Song W, Cheng F, Zeng C, Li J, Zhang T, Sun ZS. Loss-of-Function of p21-Activated Kinase 2 Links BMP Signaling to Neural Tube Patterning Defects. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2204018. [PMID: 36504449 PMCID: PMC9896034 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202204018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Closure of the neural tube represents a highly complex and coordinated process, the failure of which constitutes common birth defects. The serine/threonine kinase p21-activated kinase 2 (PAK2) is a critical regulator of cytoskeleton dynamics; however, its role in the neurulation and pathogenesis of neural tube defects (NTDs) remains unclear. Here, the results show that Pak2-/- mouse embryos fail to develop dorsolateral hinge points (DLHPs) and exhibit craniorachischisis, a severe phenotype of NTDs. Pak2 knockout activates BMP signaling that involves in vertebrate bone formation. Single-cell transcriptomes reveal abnormal differentiation trajectories and transcriptional events in Pak2-/- mouse embryos during neural tube development. Two nonsynonymous and one recurrent splice-site mutations in the PAK2 gene are identified in five human NTD fetuses, which exhibit attenuated PAK2 expression and upregulated BMP signaling in the brain. Mechanistically, PAK2 regulates Smad9 phosphorylation to inhibit BMP signaling and ultimately induce DLHP formation. Depletion of pak2a in zebrafish induces defects in the neural tube, which are partially rescued by the overexpression of wild-type, but not mutant PAK2. The findings demonstrate the conserved role of PAK2 in neurulation in multiple vertebrate species, highlighting the molecular pathogenesis of PAK2 mutations in NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Kaifan Zhang
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Jin Guo
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Shuyan Yang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Xiaohui Shi
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Jinrong Pan
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Zheng Sun
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Jizhen Zou
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Yi Li
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Tianda Fan
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Wei Song
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Fang Cheng
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Cheng Zeng
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Jinchen Li
- Bioinformatics Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunan410078China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Zhong Sheng Sun
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and RodentsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
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27
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Understanding the Role of ATP Release through Connexins Hemichannels during Neurulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032159. [PMID: 36768481 PMCID: PMC9916920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurulation is a crucial process in the formation of the central nervous system (CNS), which begins with the folding and fusion of the neural plate, leading to the generation of the neural tube and subsequent development of the brain and spinal cord. Environmental and genetic factors that interfere with the neurulation process promote neural tube defects (NTDs). Connexins (Cxs) are transmembrane proteins that form gap junctions (GJs) and hemichannels (HCs) in vertebrates, allowing cell-cell (GJ) or paracrine (HCs) communication through the release of ATP, glutamate, and NAD+; regulating processes such as cell migration and synaptic transmission. Changes in the state of phosphorylation and/or the intracellular redox potential activate the opening of HCs in different cell types. Cxs such as Cx43 and Cx32 have been associated with proliferation and migration at different stages of CNS development. Here, using molecular and cellular biology techniques (permeability), we demonstrate the expression and functionality of HCs-Cxs, including Cx46 and Cx32, which are associated with the release of ATP during the neurulation process in Xenopus laevis. Furthermore, applications of FGF2 and/or changes in intracellular redox potentials (DTT), well known HCs-Cxs modulators, transiently regulated the ATP release in our model. Importantly, the blockade of HCs-Cxs by carbenoxolone (CBX) and enoxolone (ENX) reduced ATP release with a concomitant formation of NTDs. We propose two possible and highly conserved binding sites (N and E) in Cx46 that may mediate the pharmacological effect of CBX and ENX on the formation of NTDs. In summary, our results highlight the importance of ATP release mediated by HCs-Cxs during neurulation.
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28
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Wang S, Zeng Y, He X, Liu F, Pei P, Zhang T. Folate-deficiency induced acyl-CoA synthetase short-chain family member 2 increases lysine crotonylome involved in neural tube defects. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1064509. [PMID: 36743291 PMCID: PMC9895841 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1064509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal folate deficiency increases the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs), but the mechanism remains unclear. Here, we established a mouse model of NTDs via low folate diets combined with MTX-induced conditions. We found that a significant increase in butyrate acid was observed in mouse NTDs brains. In addition, aberrant key crotonyl-CoA-producing enzymes acyl-CoA synthetase short-chain family member 2 (ACSS2) levels and lysine crotonylation (Kcr) were elevated high in corresponding low folate content maternal serum samples from mouse NTD model. Next, proteomic analysis revealed that folate deficiency led to global proteomic modulation, especially in key crotonyl-CoA-producing enzymes, and dramatic ultrastructural changes in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Furthermore, we determined that folate deficiency induced ACSS2 and Kcr in mESCs. Surprisingly, folic acid supplementation restored level of ACSS2 and Kcr. We also investigated overall protein post-translational Kcr under folate deficiency, revealing the key regulation of Kcr in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and the citric acid cycle. Our findings suggest folate deficiency leads to the occurrence of NTDs by altering ACSS2. Protein crotonylation may be the molecular basis for NTDs remodeling by folate deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Shan Wang, ; Ting Zhang,
| | - Yubing Zeng
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Xuejia He
- Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Shan Wang, ; Ting Zhang,
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Christodoulou N, Skourides PA. Somitic mesoderm morphogenesis is necessary for neural tube closure during Xenopus development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1091629. [PMID: 36699010 PMCID: PMC9868421 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1091629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural tube closure is a fundamental process during vertebrate embryogenesis, which leads to the formation of the central nervous system. Defective neural tube closure leads to neural tube defects which are some of the most common human birth defects. While the intrinsic morphogenetic events shaping the neuroepithelium have been studied extensively, how tissues mechanically coupled with the neural plate influence neural tube closure remains poorly understood. Here, using Xenopus laevis embryos, live imaging in combination with loss of function experiments and morphometric analysis of fixed samples we explore the reciprocal mechanical communication between the neural plate and the somitic mesoderm and its impact on tissue morphogenesis. We show that although somitic mesoderm convergent extension occurs independently from neural plate morphogenesis neural tube closure depends on somitic mesoderm morphogenesis. Specifically, impaired somitic mesoderm remodelling results in defective apical constriction within the neuroepithelium and failure of neural tube closure. Last, our data reveal that mild abnormalities in somitic mesoderm and neural plate morphogenesis have a synergistic effect during neurulation, leading to severe neural tube closure defects. Overall, our data reveal that defective morphogenesis of tissues mechanically coupled with the neural plate can not only drastically exacerbate mild neural tube defects that may arise from abnormalities within the neural tissue but can also elicit neural tube defects even when the neural plate is itself free of inherent defects.
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30
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Handler C, Scarcelli G, Zhang J. Time-lapse mechanical imaging of neural tube closure in live embryo using Brillouin microscopy. Sci Rep 2023; 13:263. [PMID: 36609620 PMCID: PMC9823106 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27456-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural tube closure (NTC) is a complex process of embryonic development involving molecular, cellular, and biomechanical mechanisms. While the genetic factors and biochemical signaling have been extensively investigated, the role of tissue biomechanics remains mostly unexplored due to the lack of tools. Here, we developed an optical modality that can conduct time-lapse mechanical imaging of neural plate tissue as the embryo is experiencing neurulation. This technique is based on the combination of a confocal Brillouin microscope and a modified ex ovo culturing of chick embryo with an on-stage incubator. With this technique, for the first time, we captured the mechanical evolution of the neural plate tissue with live embryos. Specifically, we observed the continuous increase in tissue modulus of the neural plate during NTC for ex ovo cultured embryos, which is consistent with the data of in ovo culture as well as previous studies. Beyond that, we found that the increase in tissue modulus was highly correlated with the tissue thickening and bending. We foresee this non-contact and label-free technique opening new opportunities to understand the biomechanical mechanisms in embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Handler
- grid.164295.d0000 0001 0941 7177Fischell Department of Bioengineering, A. James Clark School of Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742 USA
| | - Giuliano Scarcelli
- grid.164295.d0000 0001 0941 7177Fischell Department of Bioengineering, A. James Clark School of Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742 USA
| | - Jitao Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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Saunders NR, Dziegielewska KM, Fame RM, Lehtinen MK, Liddelow SA. The choroid plexus: a missing link in our understanding of brain development and function. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:919-956. [PMID: 36173801 PMCID: PMC9678431 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00060.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies of the choroid plexus lag behind those of the more widely known blood-brain barrier, despite a much longer history. This review has two overall aims. The first is to outline long-standing areas of research where there are unanswered questions, such as control of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) secretion and blood flow. The second aim is to review research over the past 10 years where the focus has shifted to the idea that there are choroid plexuses located in each of the brain's ventricles that make specific contributions to brain development and function through molecules they generate for delivery via the CSF. These factors appear to be particularly important for aspects of normal brain growth. Most research carried out during the twentieth century dealt with the choroid plexus, a brain barrier interface making critical contributions to the composition and stability of the brain's internal environment throughout life. More recent research in the twenty-first century has shown the importance of choroid plexus-generated CSF in neurogenesis, influence of sex and other hormones on choroid plexus function, and choroid plexus involvement in circadian rhythms and sleep. The advancement of technologies to facilitate delivery of brain-specific therapies via the CSF to treat neurological disorders is a rapidly growing area of research. Conversely, understanding the basic mechanisms and implications of how maternal drug exposure during pregnancy impacts the developing brain represents another key area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman R Saunders
- Department of Neuroscience, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Ryann M Fame
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maria K Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shane A Liddelow
- Neuroscience Institute, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
- Parekh Center for Interdisciplinary Neurology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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32
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Han X, Cao X, Aguiar-Pulido V, Yang W, Karki M, Ramirez PAP, Cabrera RM, Lin YL, Wlodarczyk BJ, Shaw GM, Ross ME, Zhang C, Finnell RH, Lei Y. CIC missense variants contribute to susceptibility for spina bifida. Hum Mutat 2022; 43:2021-2032. [PMID: 36054333 PMCID: PMC9772115 DOI: 10.1002/humu.24460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are congenital malformations resulting from abnormal embryonic development of the brain, spine, or spinal column. The genetic etiology of human NTDs remains poorly understood despite intensive investigation. CIC, homolog of the Capicua transcription repressor, has been reported to interact with ataxin-1 (ATXN1) and participate in the pathogenesis of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1. Our previous study demonstrated that CIC loss of function (LoF) variants contributed to the cerebral folate deficiency syndrome by downregulating folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) expression. Given the importance of folate transport in neural tube formation, we hypothesized that CIC variants could contribute to increased risk for NTDs by depressing embryonic folate concentrations. In this study, we examined CIC variants from whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data of 140 isolated spina bifida cases and identified eight missense variants of CIC gene. We tested the pathogenicity of the observed variants through multiple in vitro experiments. We determined that CIC variants decreased the FOLR1 protein level and planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway signaling in a human cell line (HeLa). In a murine cell line (NIH3T3), CIC loss of function variants downregulated PCP signaling. Taken together, this study provides evidence supporting CIC as a risk gene for human NTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Han
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan
Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou
University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
| | - Xuanye Cao
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
| | - Vanessa Aguiar-Pulido
- Center for Neurogenetics, Brain and Mind Research
Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Computer Science, University of Miami, Coral
Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of
Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Menuka Karki
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
| | - Paula Andrea Pimienta Ramirez
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
| | - Robert M. Cabrera
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
| | - Ying Linda Lin
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
| | - Bogdan J. Wlodarczyk
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
| | - Gary M. Shaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of
Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - M. Elizabeth Ross
- Center for Neurogenetics, Brain and Mind Research
Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan
Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou
University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Richard H. Finnell
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Medicine,
Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Yunping Lei
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of
Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031,
USA
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Liu Y, Dong L, Zhi X, Liu Y, Zhao L, Xu X, Wang L, Zheng J, Pu L, Gu C, Shu J, Cai C. Single nucleotide polymorphisms of PCP pathway related genes participate in the occurrence and development of neural tube defect. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2022; 11:e2094. [PMID: 36378568 PMCID: PMC9834144 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To screen the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the coding regions of VANGL and FZD family members related to the plane cell polarity (PCP) signaling pathway in neural tube defects (NTDs) patients, so as to provide theoretical and experimental basis for the prevention and treatment of NTDs by intervening PCP signal transduction. METHODS 112 NTDs patients were collected as the case group and 112 craniocerebral trauma patients as control. Afterwards, blood genomic DNA was extracted and sequenced. The distribution of SNP alleles and genotypes between case and control groups was analyzed. Finally, the NTD rat model was constructed, and the effect of SNPs on the expression level of VANGL and FZD genes was verified by qRT-PCR. RESULTS GC genotype was newly found at VANGL1 c.346G>A, as well as AT genotype in FZD6 c.97A>G. The distribution of VANGL1 c.346g>A allele and genotype was statistically different between the case and control groups (p < 0.05). The newly found genotype GC increased the risk of NTDs (OR = 9.918, 95% CI: 1.234%-79.709%). The results of qRT-PCR showed that the expression level of FZD6 in E11 NTD fetuses were significantly increased (p < 0.05), but there was no obvious difference in the expression of VANGL1. CONCLUSION We found a new variant of VANGL1 c.346G>A, whose GC genotype might play an important role in the pathogenesis of NTDs. The SNPs of VANGL1 had no significant effect on its expression level, indicating that it may induce NTDs through other ways. FZD6 was significantly overexpressed in NTDs fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Department of NephrologyTianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina,Graduate SchoolTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Liang Dong
- Department of Pediatric General SurgeryTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina
| | - Xiufang Zhi
- Graduate SchoolTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of NeonatologyTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina
| | - Linsheng Zhao
- Department of PathologyTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina
| | - Xiaowei Xu
- Institute of PediatricsTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina
| | - Lu Wang
- Institute of PediatricsTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina
| | - Jie Zheng
- Graduate SchoolTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Linjie Pu
- Department of NeonatologyTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina
| | - Chunyu Gu
- Department of NeonatologyTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina
| | - Jianbo Shu
- Institute of PediatricsTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and TreatmentTianjinChina
| | - Chunquan Cai
- Institute of PediatricsTianjin Children's Hospital (Children’s Hospital of Tianjin University)TianjinChina,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Prevention and TreatmentTianjinChina
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34
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Kalbande JV, Deotale KD, Singha SK, Karim HMR, Dubey R. A Rare Case of Giant Occipital Encephalocele With Thoracic Myelomeningocele: An Anesthetic Conundrum. Cureus 2022; 14:e29602. [PMID: 36321061 PMCID: PMC9599913 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Encephalocele and myelomeningocele are congenital defects in the cranium and spine with herniation of contents into an extracranial and extraspinal sac, respectively. The occurrence of encephalocele and myelomeningocele in the same patient has rarely been described in the literature. The anesthetic management of such cases is associated with multiple challenges, which include difficulty in securing the airway, prone positioning, blood loss, electrolyte imbalance, hypothermia, cardiorespiratory disturbances, and perioperative care. The main aims are, to prevent hemodynamic fluctuations and excessive pressure on the sac to avoid premature rupture and manage a possible difficult airway due to the head and neck mass. We report such a rare case to highlight and share our experiences faced during perioperative management of a giant vascular occipital encephalocele with impending rupture and thoracic myelomeningocele requiring surgical excision and repair. Previous similar case reports were also reviewed, and potential perioperative complications were discussed.
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Engelhardt DM, Martyr CA, Niswander L. Pathogenesis of neural tube defects: The regulation and disruption of cellular processes underlying neural tube closure. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1559. [PMID: 35504597 PMCID: PMC9605354 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube closure (NTC) is crucial for proper development of the brain and spinal cord and requires precise morphogenesis from a sheet of cells to an intact three-dimensional structure. NTC is dependent on successful regulation of hundreds of genes, a myriad of signaling pathways, concentration gradients, and is influenced by epigenetic and environmental cues. Failure of NTC is termed a neural tube defect (NTD) and is a leading class of congenital defects in the United States and worldwide. Though NTDs are all defined as incomplete closure of the neural tube, the pathogenesis of an NTD determines the type, severity, positioning, and accompanying phenotypes. In this review, we survey pathogenesis of NTDs relating to disruption of cellular processes arising from genetic mutations, altered epigenetic regulation, and environmental influences by micronutrients and maternal condition. This article is categorized under: Congenital Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Neurological Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Engelhardt
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Cara A Martyr
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Lee Niswander
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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36
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Li B, Brusman L, Dahlka J, Niswander LA. TMEM132A ensures mouse caudal neural tube closure and regulates integrin-based mesodermal migration. Development 2022; 149:dev200442. [PMID: 35950911 PMCID: PMC9482334 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Coordinated migration of the mesoderm is essential for accurate organization of the body plan during embryogenesis. However, little is known about how mesoderm migration influences posterior neural tube closure in mammals. Here, we show that spinal neural tube closure and lateral migration of the caudal paraxial mesoderm depend on transmembrane protein 132A (TMEM132A), a single-pass type I transmembrane protein, the function of which is not fully understood. Our study in Tmem132a-null mice and cell models demonstrates that TMEM132A regulates several integrins and downstream integrin pathway activation as well as cell migration behaviors. Our data also implicates mesoderm migration in elevation of the caudal neural folds and successful closure of the caudal neural tube. These results suggest a requirement for paraxial mesodermal cell migration during spinal neural tube closure, disruption of which may lead to spina bifida.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lee A. Niswander
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
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37
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D’Souza SW, Glazier JD. Homocysteine Metabolism in Pregnancy and Developmental Impacts. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:802285. [PMID: 35846363 PMCID: PMC9280125 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.802285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Homocysteine is a metabolite generated by methionine cycle metabolism, comprising the demethylated derivative of methionine. Homocysteine can be metabolised by the transsulphuration pathway to cystathionine, which requires vitamin B6, or can undergo remethylation to methionine. Homocysteine remethylation to methionine is catalysed by methionine synthase activity which requires vitamin B12, regenerating methionine to allow synthesis of the universal methyl donor S-adenosylmethionine required for methylation and gene transcription regulation. The methyl-group donated for homocysteine remethylation comes from 5-methyltetrahydrofolate generated by the folate cycle, which allows tetrahydrofolate to be returned to the active folate pool for nucleotide biosynthesis. Therefore the integrated actions of the methionine and folate cycles, required to metabolise homocysteine, also perpetuate methylation and nucleotide synthesis, vitally important to support embryonic growth, proliferation and development. Dysregulated activities of these two interdependent metabolic cycles, arising from maternal suboptimal intake of nutrient co-factors such as folate and vitamin B12 or gene polymorphisms resulting in reduced enzymatic activity, leads to inefficient homocysteine metabolic conversion causing elevated concentrations, known as hyperhomocysteinemia. This condition is associated with multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes including neural tube defects (NTDs). Raised homocysteine is damaging to cellular function, binding to proteins thereby impairing their function, with perturbed homocysteine metabolism impacting negatively on embryonic development. This review discusses the "cross-talk" of maternal-fetal homocysteine interrelationships, describes the placental transport of homocysteine, homocysteine impacts on pregnancy outcomes, homocysteine and methylation effects linking to NTD risk and proposes a putative pathway for embryonic provision of folate and vitamin B12, homocysteine-modulating nutrients that ameliorate NTD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen W. D’Souza
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jocelyn D. Glazier
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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38
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Eph and Ephrin Variants in Malaysian Neural Tube Defect Families. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13060952. [PMID: 35741713 PMCID: PMC9222557 DOI: 10.3390/genes13060952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are common birth defects with a complex genetic etiology. Mouse genetic models have indicated a number of candidate genes, of which functional mutations in some have been found in human NTDs, usually in a heterozygous state. This study focuses on Ephs-ephrins as candidate genes of interest owing to growing evidence of the role of this gene family during neural tube closure in mouse models. Eph-ephrin genes were analyzed in 31 Malaysian individuals comprising seven individuals with sporadic spina bifida, 13 parents, one twin-sibling and 10 unrelated controls. Whole exome sequencing analysis and bioinformatic analysis were performed to identify variants in 22 known Eph-ephrin genes. We reported that three out of seven spina bifida probands and three out of thirteen family members carried a variant in either EPHA2 (rs147977279), EPHB6 (rs780569137) or EFNB1 (rs772228172). Analysis of public databases shows that these variants are rare. In exome datasets of the probands and parents of the probands with Eph-ephrin variants, the genotypes of spina bifida-related genes were compared to investigate the probability of the gene–gene interaction in relation to environmental risk factors. We report the presence of Eph-ephrin gene variants that are prevalent in a small cohort of spina bifida patients in Malaysian families.
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39
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The Tbx6 Transcription Factor Dorsocross Mediates Dpp Signaling to Regulate Drosophila Thorax Closure. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094543. [PMID: 35562934 PMCID: PMC9104307 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Movement and fusion of separate cell populations are critical for several developmental processes, such as neural tube closure in vertebrates or embryonic dorsal closure and pupal thorax closure in Drosophila. Fusion failure results in an opening or groove on the body surface. Drosophila pupal thorax closure is an established model to investigate the mechanism of tissue closure. Here, we report the identification of T-box transcription factor genes Dorsocross (Doc) as Decapentaplegic (Dpp) targets in the leading edge cells of the notum in the late third instar larval and early pupal stages. Reduction of Doc in the notum region results in a thorax closure defect, similar to that in dpp loss-of-function flies. Nine genes are identified as potential downstream targets of Doc in regulating thorax closure by molecular and genetic screens. Our results reveal a novel function of Doc in Drosophila development. The candidate target genes provide new clues for unravelling the mechanism of collective cell movement.
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40
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Tabatabaei RS, Fatahi-Meibodi N, Meibodi B, Javaheri A, Abbasi H, Hadadan A, Bahrami R, Mirjalili SR, Karimi-Zarchi M, Neamatzadeh H. Association of Fetal MTHFR C677T Polymorphism with Susceptibility to Neural Tube Defects: A Systematic Review and Update Meta-Analysis. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2022; 41:225-241. [PMID: 32536242 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2020.1775734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background MTHFR gene may be a key epigenetic regulation-related factor crucial during embryogenesis. We performed a meta-analysis to determine the association of fetal MTHFR C677T polymorphism with neural tube defects (NTDs).Methods A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed, Embase, and CNKI database was performed up to April 10, 2020.Results A total of 19 case-control studies with 2,228 NTDs cases and 4,220 controls were identified. Pooled data revealed that the fetal MTHFR C677T polymorphism was significantly highly correlated with development of NTDs in the overall population. Stratified analysis showed a significant association among Caucasians and Asians, but not in mixed populations. There was a significant association between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and spina bifida risk. No publication bias was found under any genetic model.Conclusions Our pooled data support the fetal MTHFR C677T polymorphism association with risk of NTDs, especially among Caucasians and Asians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razieh Sadat Tabatabaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Neda Fatahi-Meibodi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Bahare Meibodi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Atiyeh Javaheri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hajar Abbasi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amaneh Hadadan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Reza Bahrami
- Neonatal Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Reza Mirjalili
- Department of Pediatrics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Mother and Newborn Health Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mojgan Karimi-Zarchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Neamatzadeh
- Mother and Newborn Health Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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41
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Selenium protects against the likelihood of fetal neural tube defects partly via the arginine metabolic pathway. Clin Nutr 2022; 41:838-846. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2022.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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42
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Fame RM, Lehtinen MK. Mitochondria in Early Forebrain Development: From Neurulation to Mid-Corticogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:780207. [PMID: 34888312 PMCID: PMC8650308 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.780207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Function of the mature central nervous system (CNS) requires a substantial proportion of the body’s energy consumption. During development, the CNS anlage must maintain its structure and perform stage-specific functions as it proceeds through discrete developmental stages. While key extrinsic signals and internal transcriptional controls over these processes are well appreciated, metabolic and mitochondrial states are also critical to appropriate forebrain development. Specifically, metabolic state, mitochondrial function, and mitochondrial dynamics/localization play critical roles in neurulation and CNS progenitor specification, progenitor proliferation and survival, neurogenesis, neural migration, and neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis. With the goal of integrating neurodevelopmental biologists and mitochondrial specialists, this review synthesizes data from disparate models and processes to compile and highlight key roles of mitochondria in the early development of the CNS with specific focus on forebrain development and corticogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryann M Fame
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria K Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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43
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Sun Y, Zhang J, Wang Y, Wang L, Song M, Khan A, Zhang L, Niu B, Zhao H, Li M, Luo T, He Q, Xie X, Liu Z, Xie J. miR-222-3p is involved in neural tube closure by directly targeting Ddit4 in RA induced NTDs mouse model. Cell Cycle 2021; 20:2372-2386. [PMID: 34779712 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2021.1982506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously our results showed miR-222-3p was significantly downregulated in retinoic acid-induced neural tube defect (NTD) mouse model through transcriptome. Down-regulation of miR-222-3p may be a causative biomarker in NTDs. In this study, RNA was extracted from mouse embryos at E8.5, E9.5 and E10.5, and the expression level of miR-222-3p was measured by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. The preliminary mechanism of miR-222-3p in NTDs involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration was investigated in mouse HT-22 cell line. The expression of miR-222-3p was significantly decreased at E8.5, E9.5 and E10.5 developed in mouse embryos which were consistent with our transcriptome sequencing. Suppression of miR-222-3p in HT-22 cells resulted in the inhibition of cell proliferation and migration, cell cycle and apoptosis. Moreover, DNA damage transcript 4 (Ddit4) was identified as a direct and functional target of miR-222-3p. miR-222-3p is negatively regulated by Ddit4. The mutation of binding site of Ddit4 3'UTR abrogated the responsiveness of luciferase reporters to miR-222-3p and showed that Ddit4 expression partially attenuated the function of miR-222-3p. We preliminatively confirmed that low expression of miR-222-3p has reduced the expression of β-catenin, TCF4 and other related genes in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.Collectively, these results demonstrated that miR-222-3p regulates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through Ddit4 inhibition in HT-22 cells, resulted in cell proliferation and apoptosis imbalance, and thus led to neural tube defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Meiyan Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Ajab Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Bo Niu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Meining Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Tiane Luo
- Department of Statistics, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Qiwei He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xianghui Xie
- Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomic, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Zhizhen Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth, Defect and Cell Regeneration, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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Aboughalia H, Noda S, Chapman T, Revzin MV, Deutsch GH, Browd SR, Katz DS, Moshiri M. Multimodality Imaging Evaluation of Fetal Spine Anomalies with Postnatal Correlation. Radiographics 2021; 41:2176-2192. [PMID: 34723699 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2021210066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Congenital anomalies of the spine are associated with substantial morbidity in the perinatal period and may affect the rest of the patient's life. Accurate early diagnosis of spinal abnormalities during fetal imaging allows prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal treatment planning, which can substantially affect functional outcomes. The most common and clinically relevant congenital anomalies of the spine fall into three broad categories: spinal dysraphism, segmentation and fusion anomalies of the vertebral column, and sacrococcygeal teratomas. Spinal dysraphism is further categorized into one of two subtypes: open spinal dysraphism and closed spinal dysraphism. The latter category is further subdivided into those with and without subcutaneous masses. Open spinal dysraphism is an emergency and must be closed at birth because of the risk of infection. In utero closure is also offered at some fetal centers. Sacrococcygeal teratomas are the most common fetal pelvic masses and the prognosis is variable. Finally, vertebral body anomalies are categorized into formation (butterfly and hemivertebrae) and segmentation (block vertebrae) anomalies. Although appropriate evaluation of the fetal spine begins with US, which is the initial screening modality of choice, MRI is increasingly important as a problem-solving tool, especially given the recent advances in fetal MRI, its availability, and the complexity of fetal interventions. Online supplemental material is available for this article. ©RSNA, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Aboughalia
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
| | - Sakura Noda
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
| | - Teresa Chapman
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
| | - Margarita V Revzin
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
| | - Gail H Deutsch
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
| | - Samuel R Browd
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
| | - Douglas S Katz
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
| | - Mariam Moshiri
- From the Departments of Radiology (H.A., S.N., T.C., M.M.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195; Departments of Radiology (S.N., T.C.), Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (G.H.D.), and Neurological Surgery (S.R.B.), Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Wash; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn (M.V.R.); and Department of Radiology, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY (D.S.K.)
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45
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Kakebeen AD, Niswander L. Micronutrient imbalance and common phenotypes in neural tube defects. Genesis 2021; 59:e23455. [PMID: 34665506 PMCID: PMC8599664 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are among the most common birth defects, with a prevalence of close to 19 per 10,000 births worldwide. The etiology of NTDs is complex involving the interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Since nutrient deficiency is a risk factor and dietary changes are the major preventative measure to reduce the risk of NTDs, a more detailed understanding of how common micronutrient imbalances contribute to NTDs is crucial. While folic acid has been the most discussed environmental factor due to the success that population-wide fortification has had on prevention of NTDs, folic acid supplementation does not prevent all NTDs. The imbalance of several other micronutrients has been implicated as risks for NTDs by epidemiological studies and in vivo studies in animal models. In this review, we highlight recent literature deciphering the multifactorial mechanisms underlying NTDs with an emphasis on mouse and human data. Specifically, we focus on advances in our understanding of how too much or too little retinoic acid, zinc, and iron alter gene expression and cellular processes contributing to the pathobiology of NTDs. Synthesis of the discussed literature reveals common cellular phenotypes found in embryos with NTDs resulting from several micronutrient imbalances. The goal is to combine knowledge of these common cellular phenotypes with mechanisms underlying micronutrient imbalances to provide insights into possible new targets for preventative measures against NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneke Dixie Kakebeen
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Lee Niswander
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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46
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Tian T, Yin S, Jin L, Liu J, Wang C, Wei J, Liu M, Li Z, Wang L, Yin C, Ren A. Single and mixed effects of metallic elements in maternal serum during pregnancy on risk for fetal neural tube defects: A Bayesian kernel regression approach. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 285:117203. [PMID: 33932758 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Studies of the association between prenatal exposure to metal elements and risk for neural tube defects (NTDs) have produced inconsistent results. Little research has examined the joint effects and interactions of multiple elements. This study examined 273 women with NTD-affected pregnancies and 477 controls. Cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, mercury, manganese, molybdenum, lead, and zinc were quantified in maternal serum. Single and mixed effects of these elements on NTD risk were evaluated with Bayesian kernel machine regression, and the effects of individual elements were validated using logistic regression. As a result, NTD risk increased with the concentration of the mixture of the 10 elements. NTD risk rose as the levels of the five toxic elements increased, with effect sizes larger than the overall analyses, but they decreased, albeit non-significantly, as the levels of the five essential elements increased. Lead and manganese showed risk effects on NTDs, with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.94 (1.76-2.13) and 1.25 (1.14-1.38), respectively, with the remaining nine elements remaining at their median. Molybdenum showed a protective effect against NTDs with an OR 0.87 (0.90-0.94). The single-element results were validated using logistic regression. In conclusion, NTD risk increased with concentrations of the five toxic elements, with lead and manganese being the major contributors. Essential elements showed protective effects against NTD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Tian
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shengju Yin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jufen Liu
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chengrong Wang
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wei
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Cancer Center of Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Taiyuan, China
| | - Mengyuan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiwen Li
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chenghong Yin
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Aiguo Ren
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health/National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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47
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Tian T, Cao X, Kim SE, Lin YL, Steele JW, Cabrera RM, Karki M, Yang W, Marini NJ, Hoffman EN, Han X, Hu C, Wang L, Wlodarczyk BJ, Shaw GM, Ren A, Finnell RH, Lei Y. FKBP8 variants are risk factors for spina bifida. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 29:3132-3144. [PMID: 32969478 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are a group of severe congenital malformations caused by a failure of neural tube closure during early embryonic development. Although extensively investigated, the genetic etiology of NTDs remains poorly understood. FKBP8 is critical for proper mammalian neural tube closure. Fkbp8-/- mouse embryos showed posterior NTDs consistent with a diagnosis of spina bifida (SB). To date, no publication has reported any association between FKBP8 and human NTDs. Using Sanger sequencing on genomic DNA samples from 472 SB and 565 control samples, we identified five rare (MAF ≤ 0.001) deleterious variants in SB patients, while no rare deleterious variant was identified in the controls (P = 0.0191). p.Glu140* affected FKBP8 localization to the mitochondria and created a truncated form of the FKBP8 protein, thus impairing its interaction with BCL2 and ultimately leading to an increase in cellular apoptosis. p.Ser3Leu, p.Lys315Asn and p.Ala292Ser variants decreased FKBP8 protein level. p.Lys315Asn further increased the cellular apoptosis. RNA sequencing on anterior and posterior tissues isolated from Fkbp8-/- and wildtype mice at E9.5 and E10.5 showed that Fkbp8-/- embryos have an abnormal expression profile within tissues harvested at posterior sites, thus leading to a posterior NTD. Moreover, we found that Fkbp8 knockout mouse embryos have abnormal expression of Wnt3a and Nkx2.9 during the early stage of neural tube development, perhaps also contributing to caudal specific NTDs. These findings provide evidence that functional variants of FKBP8 are risk factors for SB, which may involve a novel mechanism by which Fkbp8 mutations specifically cause SB in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Tian
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Xuanye Cao
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Sung-Eun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, Austin, TX 78723, USA
| | - Ying Linda Lin
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - John W Steele
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Robert M Cabrera
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Menuka Karki
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Nicholas J Marini
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Ethan N Hoffman
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Xiao Han
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Cindy Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, Austin, TX 78723, USA
| | - Linlin Wang
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Bogdan J Wlodarczyk
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Gary M Shaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Aiguo Ren
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Richard H Finnell
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA.,Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
| | - Yunping Lei
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77031, USA
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48
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Smith HM, Khairallah SM, Nguyen AH, Newman-Smith E, Smith WC. Misregulation of cell adhesion molecules in the Ciona neural tube closure mutant bugeye. Dev Biol 2021; 480:14-24. [PMID: 34407458 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube closure (NTC) is a complex multi-step morphogenetic process that transforms the flat neural plate found on the surface of the post-gastrulation embryo into the hollow and subsurface central nervous system (CNS). Errors in this process underlie some of the most prevalent human birth defects, and occur in about 1 out of every 1000 births. Previously, we discovered a mutant in the basal chordate Ciona savignyi (named bugeye) that revealed a novel role for a T-Type Calcium Channel (Cav3) in this process. Moreover, the requirement for CAV3s in Xenopus NTC suggests a conserved function among the chordates. Loss of CAV3 leads to defects restricted to anterior NTC, with the brain apparently fully developed, but protruding from the head. Here we report first on a new Cav3 mutant in the related species C. robusta. RNAseq analysis of both C. robusta and C. savignyi bugeye mutants reveals misregulation of a number of transcripts including ones that are involved in cell-cell recognition and adhesion. Two in particular, Selectin and Fibronectin leucine-rich repeat transmembrane, which are aberrantly upregulated in the mutant, are expressed in the closing neural tube, and when disrupted by CRISPR gene editing lead to the open brain phenotype displayed in bugeye mutants. We speculate that these molecules play a transient role in tissue separation and adhesion during NTC and failure to downregulate them leads to an open neural tube.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley M Smith
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, USA
| | | | - Ann Hong Nguyen
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, USA
| | | | - William C Smith
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, USA; Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, USA.
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49
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Prasad P, Mori M, Toriello HV. Focused Revision: Policy statement on folic acid and neural tube defects. Genet Med 2021; 23:2464-2466. [PMID: 34230639 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-021-01226-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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50
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Niri F, Terpstra A, Lim KRQ, McDermid H. Chromatin remodeling factor CECR2 forms tissue-specific complexes with CCAR2 and LUZP1. Biochem Cell Biol 2021; 99:759-765. [PMID: 34197713 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2021-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromatin remodeling complexes alter chromatin structure to control access to DNA and therefore control cellular processes such as transcription, DNA replication, and DNA repair. CECR2 is a chromatin remodeling factor that plays an important role in neural tube closure and reproduction. Loss-of-function mutations in Cecr2 result primarily in the perinatal lethal neural tube defect exencephaly, with non-penetrant mice that survive to adulthood exhibiting subfertility. CECR2 forms a complex with ISWI proteins SMARCA5 and/or SMARCA1, but further information on the structure and function of the complex is not known. We therefore have identified candidate components of the CECR2-containing remodeling factor (CERF) complex in embryonic stem (ES) cells through mass spectroscopy. Both SMARCA5 and SMARCA1 were confirmed to be present in CERF complexes in ES cells and testis. However, novel proteins CCAR2 and LUZP1 are CERF components in ES cells but not testis. This tissue specificity in mice suggests these complexes may also have functional differences. Furthermore, LUZP1, loss of which is also associated with exencephaly, appears to play a role in stabilizing the CERF complex in ES cells. Keywords: CECR2, LUZP1, CCAR2, Chromatin remodeling factor, Neural tube defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farshad Niri
- University of Alberta, 3158, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6G 2R3.,Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6E 1V3;
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