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Wankanit S, Zidoune H, Bignon-Topalovic J, Schlick L, Houzelstein D, Fusée L, Boukri A, Nouri N, McElreavey K, Bashamboo A, Elzaiat M. Evidence for NR2F2/COUP-TFII involvement in human testis development. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17869. [PMID: 39090159 PMCID: PMC11294483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68860-3] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
NR2F2 encodes COUP-TFII, an orphan nuclear receptor required for the development of the steroidogenic lineages of the murine fetal testes and ovaries. Pathogenic variants in human NR2F2 are associated with testis formation in 46,XX individuals, however, the function of COUP-TFII in the human testis is unknown. We report a de novo heterozygous variant in NR2F2 (c.737G > A, p.Arg246His) in a 46,XY under-masculinized boy with primary hypogonadism. The variant, located within the ligand-binding domain, is predicted to be highly damaging. In vitro studies indicated that the mutation does not impact the stability or subcellular localization of the protein. NR5A1, a related nuclear receptor that is a key factor in gonad formation and function, is known to physically interact with COUP-TFII to regulate gene expression. The mutant protein did not affect the physical interaction with NR5A1. However, in-vitro assays demonstrated that the mutant protein significantly loses the inhibitory effect on NR5A1-mediated activation of both the LHB and INSL3 promoters. The data support a role for COUP-TFII in human testis formation. Although mutually antagonistic sets of genes are known to regulate testis and ovarian pathways, we extend the list of genes, that together with NR5A1 and WT1, are associated with both 46,XX and 46,XY DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somboon Wankanit
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Housna Zidoune
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
- Department of Animal Biology, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University Frères Mentouri Constantine 1, 25017, Constantine, Algeria
| | | | - Laurène Schlick
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Denis Houzelstein
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Leila Fusée
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Asma Boukri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
- Metabolic Disease Research Laboratory, Salah Boubnider Constantine 3 University, El Khroub, Algeria
| | - Nassim Nouri
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Ibn Badis Constantine, Constantine, Algeria
- Metabolic Disease Research Laboratory, Salah Boubnider Constantine 3 University, El Khroub, Algeria
| | - Ken McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Anu Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Maëva Elzaiat
- Human Developmental Genetics Unit, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, 75015, Paris, France.
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Wu J, Tan S, Zhou Y, Zhao H, Yu H, Zhong B, Yu C, Wang H, Yang Y, Li H, Li Y. Clinical and gonadal transcriptome analysis of 38,XX disorder of sex development pigs†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:212-226. [PMID: 38531779 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae046] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pigs serve as a robust animal model for the study of human diseases, notably in the context of disorders of sex development (DSD). This study aims to investigate the phenotypic characteristics and molecular mechanisms underlying the reproductive and developmental abnormalities of 38,XX ovotestis-DSD (OT-DSD) and 38,XX testis-DSD (T-DSD) in pigs. Clinical and transcriptome sequencing analyses were performed on DSD and normal female pigs. Cytogenetic and SRY analyses confirmed that OT/T-DSD pigs exhibited a 38,XX karyotype and lacked the SRY gene. The DSD pigs had higher levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and progesterone, but lower testosterone levels when compared with normal male pigs. The reproductive organs of OT/T-DSD pigs exhibit abnormal development, displaying both male and female characteristics, with an absence of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules. Sex determination and development-related differentially expressed genes shared between DSD pigs were identified in the gonads, including WT1, DKK1, CTNNB1, WTN9B, SHOC, PTPN11, NRG1, and NXK3-1. DKK1 is proposed as a candidate gene for investigating the regulatory mechanisms underlying gonadal phenotypic differences between OT-DSD and T-DSD pigs. Consequently, our findings provide insights into the molecular pathogenesis of DSD pigs and present an animal model for studying into DSD in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Shuwen Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Haiquan Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Hui Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Bingzhou Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Congying Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Haoming Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yin Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Hua Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yugu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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Stancampiano MR, Meroni SLC, Bucolo C, Russo G. 46,XX Differences of Sex Development outside congenital adrenal hyperplasia: pathogenesis, clinical aspects, puberty, sex hormone replacement therapy and fertility outcomes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1402579. [PMID: 38841305 PMCID: PMC11150773 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1402579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The term 'differences of sex development' (DSD) refers to a group of congenital conditions that are associated with atypical development of chromosomal, gonadal, and/or anatomical sex. DSD in individuals with a 46,XX karyotype can occur due to fetal or postnatal exposure to elevated amount of androgens or maldevelopment of internal genitalia. Clinical phenotype could be quite variable and for this reason these conditions could be diagnosed at birth, in newborns with atypical genitalia, but also even later in life, due to progressive virilization during adolescence, or pubertal delay. Understand the physiological development and the molecular bases of gonadal and adrenal structures is crucial to determine the diagnosis and best management and treatment for these patients. The most common cause of DSD in 46,XX newborns is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, determining primary adrenal insufficiency and androgen excess. In this review we will focus on the other rare causes of 46,XX DSD, outside CAH, summarizing the most relevant data on genetic, clinical aspects, puberty and fertility outcomes of these rare diseases.
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Yavas Abalı Z, Guran T. Diagnosis and management of non-CAH 46,XX disorders/differences in sex development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1354759. [PMID: 38812815 PMCID: PMC11134272 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1354759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Prenatal-onset androgen excess leads to abnormal sexual development in 46,XX individuals. This androgen excess can be caused endogenously by the adrenals or gonads or by exposure to exogenous androgens. The most common cause of 46,XX disorders/differences in sex development (DSD) is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, comprising >90% of 46,XX DSD cases. Deficiencies of 11β-hydroxylase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and P450-oxidoreductase (POR) are rare types of CAH, resulting in 46,XX DSD. In all CAH forms, patients have normal ovarian development. The molecular genetic causes of 46,XX DSD, besides CAH, are uncommon. These etiologies include primary glucocorticoid resistance (PGCR) and aromatase deficiency with normal ovarian development. Additionally, 46,XX gonads can differentiate into testes, causing 46,XX testicular (T) DSD or a coexistence of ovarian and testicular tissue, defined as 46,XX ovotesticular (OT)-DSD. PGCR is caused by inactivating variants in NR3C1, resulting in glucocorticoid insensitivity and the signs of mineralocorticoid and androgen excess. Pathogenic variants in the CYP19A1 gene lead to aromatase deficiency, causing androgen excess. Many genes are involved in the mechanisms of gonadal development, and genes associated with 46,XX T/OT-DSD include translocations of the SRY; copy number variants in NR2F2, NR0B1, SOX3, SOX9, SOX10, and FGF9, and sequence variants in NR5A1, NR2F2, RSPO1, SOX9, WNT2B, WNT4, and WT1. Progress in cytogenetic and molecular genetic techniques has significantly improved our understanding of the etiology of non-CAH 46,XX DSD. Nonetheless, uncertainties about gonadal function and gender outcomes may make the management of these conditions challenging. This review explores the intricate landscape of diagnosing and managing these conditions, shedding light on the unique aspects that distinguish them from other types of DSD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tulay Guran
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Luppino G, Wasniewska M, Coco R, Pepe G, Morabito LA, Li Pomi A, Corica D, Aversa T. Role of NR5A1 Gene Mutations in Disorders of Sex Development: Molecular and Clinical Features. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:4519-4532. [PMID: 38785542 PMCID: PMC11119465 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46050274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Disorders/differences of sex development (DSDs) are defined as broad, heterogenous groups of congenital conditions characterized by atypical development of genetic, gonadal, or phenotypic sex accompanied by abnormal development of internal and/or external genitalia. NR5A1 gene mutation is one of the principal genetic alterations implicated in causing DSD. This review outlines the role of NR5A1 gene during the process of gonadal development in humans, provides an overview of the molecular and functional characteristics of NR5A1 gene, and discusses potential clinical phenotypes and additional organ diseases due to NR5A1 mutations. NR5A1 mutations were analyzed in patients with 46,XY DSD and 46,XX DSD both during the neonatal and pubertal periods. Loss of function of the NR5A1 gene causes several different phenotypes, including some associated with disease in additional organs. Clinical phenotypes may vary, even among patients carrying the same NR5A1 variant, indicating that there is no specific genotype-phenotype correlation. Genetic tests are crucial diagnostic tools that should be used early in the diagnostic pathway, as early as the neonatal period, when gonadal dysgenesis is the main manifestation of NR5A1 mutation. NR5A1 gene mutations could be mainly associated with amenorrhea, ovarian failure, hypogonadism, and infertility during puberty. Fertility preservation techniques should be considered as early as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Luppino
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (G.P.); (A.L.P.); (D.C.); (T.A.)
| | - Malgorzata Wasniewska
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (G.P.); (A.L.P.); (D.C.); (T.A.)
- Pediatric Unit, AOU Policlinico G. Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Roberto Coco
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (G.P.); (A.L.P.); (D.C.); (T.A.)
| | - Giorgia Pepe
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (G.P.); (A.L.P.); (D.C.); (T.A.)
- Pediatric Unit, AOU Policlinico G. Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Letteria Anna Morabito
- Pediatric Unit, AOU Policlinico G. Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Li Pomi
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (G.P.); (A.L.P.); (D.C.); (T.A.)
| | - Domenico Corica
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (G.P.); (A.L.P.); (D.C.); (T.A.)
- Pediatric Unit, AOU Policlinico G. Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Tommaso Aversa
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (G.P.); (A.L.P.); (D.C.); (T.A.)
- Pediatric Unit, AOU Policlinico G. Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy;
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6
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Hattori A, Fukami M. Nuclear Receptor Gene Variants Underlying Disorders/Differences of Sex Development through Abnormal Testicular Development. Biomolecules 2023; 13:691. [PMID: 37189438 PMCID: PMC10135730 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadal development is the first step in human reproduction. Aberrant gonadal development during the fetal period is a major cause of disorders/differences of sex development (DSD). To date, pathogenic variants of three nuclear receptor genes (NR5A1, NR0B1, and NR2F2) have been reported to cause DSD via atypical testicular development. In this review article, we describe the clinical significance of the NR5A1 variants as the cause of DSD and introduce novel findings from recent studies. NR5A1 variants are associated with 46,XY DSD and 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD. Notably, both 46,XX DSD and 46,XY DSD caused by the NR5A1 variants show remarkable phenotypic variability, to which digenic/oligogenic inheritances potentially contribute. Additionally, we discuss the roles of NR0B1 and NR2F2 in the etiology of DSD. NR0B1 acts as an anti-testicular gene. Duplications containing NR0B1 result in 46,XY DSD, whereas deletions encompassing NR0B1 can underlie 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD. NR2F2 has recently been reported as a causative gene for 46,XX testicular/ovotesticular DSD and possibly for 46,XY DSD, although the role of NR2F2 in gonadal development is unclear. The knowledge about these three nuclear receptors provides novel insights into the molecular networks involved in the gonadal development in human fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Hattori
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
- Division of Diversity Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Maki Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
- Division of Diversity Research, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
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Syryn H, Van De Vijver K, Cools M. Ovotesticular Difference of Sex Development: Genetic Background, Histological Features, and Clinical Management. Horm Res Paediatr 2021; 96:180-189. [PMID: 34469891 DOI: 10.1159/000519323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovotesticular disorder/difference of sex development (DSD) refers to the co-presence of testicular and ovarian tissue in one individual. Childhood management is challenging as there are many uncertainties regarding etiology, gonadal function, and gender outcome. SUMMARY Ovotesticular DSD should mainly be considered in 46,XX children with atypical genitalia and normal adrenal steroid profiles. Various underlying genetic mechanisms have been described. Histological assessment of ovotestes requires expert revision and has many pitfalls. Neonatal sex assignment is essential, but as gender outcome is unpredictable, this should be regarded as provisional until a stable gender identity has developed. Therefore, it is crucial not to perform any irreversible medical or surgical procedure in affected individuals until adolescents can give their full informed consent. Gonadal function mostly allows for spontaneous pubertal development; however, fertility is compromised, especially in boys. Specific long-term outcome data for ovotesticular DSD are lacking but can be extrapolated from studies in other DSD populations. Key Messages: Management of ovotesticular DSD has changed in recent years, prioritizing the child's future right for autonomy and self-determination. The benefits and pitfalls of this new approach have not been documented yet and require intensive monitoring on an international scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannes Syryn
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Martine Cools
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University and Pediatric Endocrinology Service, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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8
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Ibba A, Del Pistoia M, Balsamo A, Baronio F, Capalbo D, Russo G, DE Sanctis L, Bizzarri C. Differences of sex development in the newborn: from clinical scenario to molecular diagnosis. Minerva Pediatr (Torino) 2021; 73:606-620. [PMID: 34152117 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5276.21.06512-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Differences/disorders of sex development (DSD) are defined as a group of congenital conditions in which the development of chromosomal, gonadal or anatomical sex is atypical. The incidence of DSD is 1:4500 births. The current classification divides DSDs into 3 categories according to chromosomal sex: 46,XX DSD, 46,XY DSD and sex chromosome DSD. DSD phenotypes can be concordant with the genotype (apparently normal external genitalia associated with gonadal dysgenesis), or can range from simply hypospadias to completely masculinised or feminised genitalia with a discordant karyotype. Numerous genes implicated in genital development have been reported. The search of genetic variants represents a central element of the extended investigation, as an improved knowledge of the genetic aetiology helps the immediate and long-term management of children with DSDs, in term of sex of rearing, hormone therapy, surgery, fertility and cancer risk. This review aims to assess the current role of molecular diagnosis in DSD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Ibba
- Pediatric Endocrine Unit and Neonatal Screening Centre, Pediatric Hospital Microcitemico A. Cao, ARNAS Brotzu, Cagliari, Italy -
| | - Marta Del Pistoia
- Division of Neonatology and NICU, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Santa Chiara University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Balsamo
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Baronio
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Donatella Capalbo
- Department of Mother and Child, Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianni Russo
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa DE Sanctis
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Carla Bizzarri
- Unit of Endocrinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
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9
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Disorders of Sex Development-Novel Regulators, Impacts on Fertility, and Options for Fertility Preservation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072282. [PMID: 32224856 PMCID: PMC7178030 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders (or differences) of sex development (DSD) are a heterogeneous group of congenital conditions with variations in chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex. Impaired gonadal development is central to the pathogenesis of the majority of DSDs and therefore a clear understanding of gonadal development is essential to comprehend the impacts of these disorders on the individual, including impacts on future fertility. Gonadal development was traditionally considered to involve a primary 'male' pathway leading to testicular development as a result of expression of a small number of key testis-determining genes. However, it is increasingly recognized that there are several gene networks involved in the development of the bipotential gonad towards either a testicular or ovarian fate. This includes genes that act antagonistically to regulate gonadal development. This review will highlight some of the novel regulators of gonadal development and how the identification of these has enhanced understanding of gonadal development and the pathogenesis of DSD. We will also describe the impact of DSDs on fertility and options for fertility preservation in this context.
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10
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van den Bergen JA, Robevska G, Eggers S, Riedl S, Grover SR, Bergman PB, Kimber C, Jiwane A, Khan S, Krausz C, Raza J, Atta I, Davis SR, Ono M, Harley V, Faradz SMH, Sinclair AH, Ayers KL. Analysis of variants in GATA4 and FOG2/ZFPM2 demonstrates benign contribution to 46,XY disorders of sex development. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1095. [PMID: 31962012 PMCID: PMC7057099 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background GATA‐binding protein 4 (GATA4) and Friend of GATA 2 protein (FOG2, also known as ZFPM2) form a heterodimer complex that has been shown to influence transcription of genes in a number of developmental systems. Recent evidence has also shown these genes play a role in gonadal sexual differentiation in humans. Previously we identified four variants in GATA4 and an unexpectedly large number of variants in ZFPM2 in a cohort of individuals with 46,XY Differences/Disorders of Sex Development (DSD) (Eggers et al, Genome Biology, 2016; 17: 243). Method Here, we review variant curation and test the functional activity of GATA4 and ZFPM2 variants. We assess variant transcriptional activity on gonadal specific promoters (Sox9 and AMH) and variant protein–protein interactions. Results Our findings support that the majority of GATA4 and ZFPM2 variants we identified are benign in their contribution to 46,XY DSD. Indeed, only one variant, in the conserved N‐terminal zinc finger of GATA4, was considered pathogenic, with functional analysis confirming differences in its ability to regulate Sox9 and AMH and in protein interaction with ZFPM2. Conclusions Our study helps define the genetic factors contributing to 46,XY DSD and suggests that the majority of variants we identified in GATA4 and ZFPM2/FOG2 are not causative.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gorjana Robevska
- Genetics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Stefanie Eggers
- Research Genomics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Stefan Riedl
- St. Anna Children's Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Paediatric Department, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sonia R Grover
- Genetics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Philip B Bergman
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, Vic., Australia
| | - Chris Kimber
- Department of Paediatric Urology, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Vic., Australia
| | - Ashish Jiwane
- Department of Urology, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Sophy Khan
- Surgical Department, Angkor Hospital for Children, Siem Reap, Cambodia
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences"Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Toscana, Italy
| | - Jamal Raza
- Paediatric Department, National Institute of Child Health, Karachi City, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Irum Atta
- Paediatric Department, National Institute of Child Health, Karachi City, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Makato Ono
- Department of Paediatrics, Tokyo Bay Urayasu Ichikawa Iryo Center, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan
| | - Vincent Harley
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Vic., Australia
| | - Sultana M H Faradz
- Division of Human Genetics, Centre for Biomedical Research Faculty of Medicine, Diponegoro University (FMDU), Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Genetics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Katie L Ayers
- Genetics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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11
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Functional study of a novel c.630delG (p.Y211Tfs*85) mutation in NR5A1 gene in a Chinese boy with 46,XY disorders of sex development. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:477-486. [PMID: 31938931 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01676-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to present the clinical features and gene mutation characteristics of a child with 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD) caused by a novel heterozygous mutation in the NR5A1 gene to determine the potential association between this heterozygous mutation and the pathogenesis of 46,XY DSD. METHODS We present the case of a Chinese child with ambiguous genitalia at birth but a normal adrenal gland. Targeted next-generation sequencing, comprising 163 candidate genes involved in sexual differentiation and development, was performed, followed by the functional evaluation of the novel NR5A1 mutation. RESULT The patient had a novel heterozygous mutation in the NR5A1 gene, c.630delG (p.Y211Tfs*85). Results revealed that overexpression of p.Y211Tfs*85 impaired steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1) protein synthesis. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that both SF-1 wild-type and p.Y211Tfs*85 mutation proteins were localized in the cell nucleus. Furthermore, dual-luciferase reporter assay results revealed that the p.Y211Tfs*85 mutation could effectively downregulate the transcriptional activation of anti-Müllerian hormone and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein genes (P < 0.01). Additionally, the p.Y211Tfs*85 mutation changed three-dimensional conformation of SF-1, and three conformations could be constructed with the mutated amino acid sequences. Therefore, the novel frameshift mutation could result in decreased protein expression of SF-1. CONCLUSION We described a novel mutation in NR5A1 and showed that it might affect protein structure, thereby seriously compromising the role of SF-1 in regulating gonadal development. The novel p.Y211Tfs*85 mutation in the NR5A1 gene enriches the boy of information available regarding the mutation spectrum of this gene in the Chinese population.
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Bertrand-Delepine J, Manouvrier-Hanu S, Cartigny M, Paris F, Mallet D, Philibert P, Morel Y, Lefevre C, Dewailly D, Catteau-Jonard S. In cases of familial primary ovarian insufficiency and disorders of gonadal development, consider NR5A1/SF-1 sequence variants. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 40:151-159. [PMID: 31831369 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is defined as the early exhaustion of ovarian function, before the age of 40 years. Its origin is genetic in 20-25% of cases. In rare cases, sequence variants of the NR5A1/SF-1 gene may result in POI, or in various disorders of gonadal development (DGD) or adrenal insufficiency. DESIGN This study describes the cases of two families in which the association of DGD and POI enabled a diagnosis of NR5A1 deleterious variations. Their clinical, hormonal, ultrasound and genetic characteristics are reported. RESULTS The mothers of the affected children were 21 and 29 years when POI was diagnosed. Each nonetheless had two spontaneous pregnancies. The children have different phenotypes and different forms of DGD. None of the affected family members had adrenal insufficiency. A new sequence variant of the NR5A1 gene was identified in one family: p.Cys283Phe (c.848G>T), and the NR5A1 sequence variant c.86G>C was found in the other family. CONCLUSION Sequence variation of the NR5A1 gene is a possibility that must be considered when a woman with POI or a diminished ovarian reserve has a family member or child with DGD. If a variant is identified, genetic counselling is essential for the patient and his/her family.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sylvie Manouvrier-Hanu
- Université de Lille. Lille, CHU Lille, Clinique de Génétique, EA 7364-RADEME, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Maryse Cartigny
- CHU Lille, Centre de Référence DEV-GEN, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Françoise Paris
- Département d'Endocrinologie et de Gynécologie Pédiatrique CHU Arnaud de Villeneuve, 34090 Montpellier, Département de Génétique, IURC, Equipe DEV-GEN, Montpellier 34090, France
| | - Delphine Mallet
- CHU Lyon, Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire Grand Est, UM Pathologies Endocriniennes Rénales Musculaires et Mucoviscidose - Centre de Référence DEV-GEN, Bron F-69677, France
| | - Pascal Philibert
- Département d'Endocrinologie et de Gynécologie Pédiatrique CHU Arnaud de Villeneuve, 34090 Montpellier, Département de Génétique, IURC, Equipe DEV-GEN, Montpellier 34090, France
| | - Yves Morel
- CHU Lyon, Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire Grand Est, UM Pathologies Endocriniennes Rénales Musculaires et Mucoviscidose - Centre de Référence DEV-GEN, Bron F-69677, France; Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | | | - Didier Dewailly
- Université de Lille, CHU Lille, INSERM U1172, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- Université de Lille, CHU Lille, INSERM U1172, Lille F-59000, France; Université de Lille, CHU Lille, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Lille F-59000, France.
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Grinspon RP, Rey RA. Molecular Characterization of XX Maleness. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20236089. [PMID: 31816857 PMCID: PMC6928850 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20236089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), secreted by the foetal testis, are responsible for the development of male reproductive organs and the regression of female anlagen. Virilization of the reproductive tract in association with the absence of Müllerian derivatives in the XX foetus implies the existence of testicular tissue, which can occur in the presence or absence of SRY. Recent advancement in the knowledge of the opposing gene cascades driving to the differentiation of the gonadal ridge into testes or ovaries during early foetal development has provided insight into the molecular explanation of XX maleness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina P. Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Correspondence: (R.P.G.); (R.A.R.); Tel.: +54-11-49635931 (R.P.G.)
| | - Rodolfo A. Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, C1425EFD Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Histología, Biología Celular, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Correspondence: (R.P.G.); (R.A.R.); Tel.: +54-11-49635931 (R.P.G.)
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Fabbri‐Scallet H, Sousa LM, Maciel‐Guerra AT, Guerra‐Júnior G, Mello MP. Mutation update for theNR5A1gene involved in DSD and infertility. Hum Mutat 2019; 41:58-68. [DOI: 10.1002/humu.23916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Fabbri‐Scallet
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering‐CBMEGState University of Campinas São Paulo Brazil
| | - Lizandra Maia Sousa
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering‐CBMEGState University of Campinas São Paulo Brazil
| | - Andréa Trevas Maciel‐Guerra
- Department of Medical Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Faculty of Medical SciencesState University of Campinas São Paulo Brazil
- Interdisciplinary Group for the Study of Sex Determination and Differentiation‐GIEDDSState University of Campinas São Paulo Brazil
| | - Gil Guerra‐Júnior
- Interdisciplinary Group for the Study of Sex Determination and Differentiation‐GIEDDSState University of Campinas São Paulo Brazil
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical SciencesState University of Campinas São Paulo Brazil
| | - Maricilda Palandi Mello
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering‐CBMEGState University of Campinas São Paulo Brazil
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Mahmoudzadeh L, Abbasi A, Ayatollahi H, Rahimi S, Ilkhanizadeh B. First Report of Concurrent Germ Cell and Epithelial Tumors in Ovotestes of a 46,XY Female Patient. J Oncol Pract 2019; 15:410-412. [PMID: 31219736 DOI: 10.1200/jop.18.00778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ata Abbasi
- 1 Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Nomura R, Kashimada K, Suzuki H, Zhao L, Tsuji-Hosokawa A, Yagita H, Takagi M, Kanai Y, Bowles J, Koopman P, Kanai-Azuma M, Morio T. Nr5a1 suppression during the murine fetal period optimizes ovarian development by fine-tuning Notch signaling. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.223768. [PMID: 30877223 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.223768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptor NR5A1 is equally expressed and required for development of the gonadal primordia of both sexes, but, after sex determination, it is upregulated in XY testes and downregulated in XX ovaries. We have recently demonstrated, in mice, that this downregulation is mediated by forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) and hypothesized that adequate suppression of Nr5a1 is essential for normal ovarian development. Further, analysis of human patients with disorders/differences of sex development suggests that overexpression of NR5A1 can result in XX (ovo)testicular development. Here, we tested the role of Nr5a1 by overexpression in fetal gonads using a Wt1-BAC (bacterial artificial chromosome) transgene system. Enforced Nr5a1 expression compromised ovarian development in 46,XX mice, resulting in late-onset infertility, but did not induce (ovo)testis differentiation. The phenotype was similar to that of XX mice lacking Notch signaling. The expression level of Notch2 was significantly reduced in Nr5a1 transgenic mice, and the ovarian phenotype was almost completely rescued by in utero treatment with a NOTCH2 agonist. We conclude that suppression of Nr5a1 during the fetal period optimizes ovarian development by fine-tuning Notch signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Nomura
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kenichi Kashimada
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hitomi Suzuki
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Liang Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Atsumi Tsuji-Hosokawa
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hideo Yagita
- Department of Immunology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Takagi
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Yoshiakira Kanai
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Josephine Bowles
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Masami Kanai-Azuma
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Morio
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
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Zhang B, Song Y, Li W, Gong C. Variant analysis of the chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 7 in pediatric disorders of sex development. Pediatr Investig 2019; 3:31-38. [PMID: 32851286 PMCID: PMC7331373 DOI: 10.1002/ped4.12111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE This study investigated the role of the chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 7 (CHD7) in disorders of sex development (DSD). OBJECTIVE We aimed to present the potential pathogenicity of CHD7 variants in pediatric patients with DSD. METHODS Choosing cases with CHD7 variants from DSD patients in Beijing Children's Hospital to assess for the study. Prediction software tools were used to predict variant pathogenicity in these subjects. RESULTS Among the 113 DSD patients, 22 cases had CHD7 variants. Twenty-four different CHD7 variants were identified in the 22 DSD patients. Prediction software combined with ClinVar database information and their clinical manifestations revealed that, of the 18 patients with 46, XY DSD, two had CHARGE syndrome and two had Kallmann syndrome. Seven of the variants were highly categorized as "likely to be pathogenic" and seven as "suspected to be pathogenic". Of the four patients with 46, XX DSD, three had ovotesticular DSD (c.305A>G, c.2788G>A, and c.3098G>A) and one had testicular DSD (c.2831G>A). INTERPRETATION A high frequency of CHD7 variants was found in the DSD patients, especially those with 46, XY DSD. Thus, the detection of a pathogenic CHD7 variant could suggest a diagnosis of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism for 46, XY DSD patients, but pre-pubescent patients should be reassessed in adolescence to confirm this diagnosis. This study also suggests that DNA sequencing could help to identify pre-pubescent DSD patients. Further data are required to determine the connection between CHD7 variants and sex-reversal in patients with 46, XX DSD, and the accumulation of these data is essential and necessary for DSD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Zhang
- National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
- Center of Endocrinology, Genetics and MetabolismBeijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yanning Song
- National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
- Center of Endocrinology, Genetics and MetabolismBeijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Wei Li
- National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth DefectsBeijingChina
- Beijing Pediatric Research InstituteBeijingChina
| | - Chunxiu Gong
- National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
- Center of Endocrinology, Genetics and MetabolismBeijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth DefectsBeijingChina
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Kremen J, Chan YM. Genetic evaluation of disorders of sex development: current practice and novel gene discovery. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2019; 26:54-59. [PMID: 30507699 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW As the pace of genetic discovery accelerates, genetic sequencing is increasingly applied to rare disease such as DSD (differences or disorders of sex development,) which has led to an increase in the number of novel variant-containing candidate genes identified. In this review, we will discuss several candidate genes which have recently been proposed as causative of DSD, as well as novel work in understanding gene regulation in the mouse gonad that may have implications for the DSD phenotype in humans. RECENT FINDINGS We performed a comprehensive search of PubMed through August 2018 to identify relevant peer-reviewed publications from 2017 to 2018 on DSD genetics. SUMMARY Seminal work has identified a critical gonadal enhancer of Sox9 in a mouse model. This enhancer is located in a region which had previously been implicated in both XX and XY DSD, though the specific enhancer and its role in Sox9 gene expression had not been defined. Novel candidate genes in XY gonadal dysgenesis (SOX8, ESR2) and XX ovotesticular DSD (NR2F2) have been described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Kremen
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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19
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Adachi M, Hasegawa T, Tanaka Y, Asakura Y, Hanakawa J, Muroya K. Spontaneous virilization around puberty in NR5A1-related 46,XY sex reversal: additional case and a literature review. Endocr J 2018; 65:1187-1192. [PMID: 30224582 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej18-0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A heterozygous NR5A1 mutation is one of the most frequent causes of 46,XY DSD (disorders of sex development). We here reported a NR5A1-related 46,XY DSD patient, who first received endocrinological attention at 10 years of age for clitoromegaly. The patient had been reared as a girl, and no signs of virilization had been detected before. On examination, her clitoris was 35 mm long and 10 mm wide, with Tanner 3° pubic hair. Urogenital sinus and labial fusion was absent, while her uterus was found to be severely hypoplastic. Her basal testosterone level was 94.8 ng/dL, suggesting the presence of functioning Leydig cells. Gonadal histology revealed bilateral dysplastic testes consisting of mostly Sertoli cell-only tubules and Leydig cell hyperplasia. Novel heterozygous Arg313Leu substitution in NR5A1 was identified in the patient. Literature search confirmed twelve other cases of this scenario, namely, severe under-virilization in utero followed by spontaneous virilization around puberty in NR5A1-related 46,XY DSD. Of interest, Leydig cell hyperplasia was documented in 6 out of 9 patients for whom testicular histology was available. To keep in mind about the possible restoration of Leydig cell function around puberty, even in patients without discernible in utero androgen effect, may be of clinical significance, because it will give a great impact on the judgement about sex assignment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Adachi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama 232-8555, Japan
| | - Tomonobu Hasegawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yukichi Tanaka
- Division of Diagnostic Pathology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama 232-8555, Japan
| | - Yumi Asakura
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama 232-8555, Japan
| | - Junko Hanakawa
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama 232-8555, Japan
| | - Koji Muroya
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama 232-8555, Japan
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Knarston IM, Robevska G, van den Bergen JA, Eggers S, Croft B, Yates J, Hersmus R, Looijenga LHJ, Cameron FJ, Monhike K, Ayers KL, Sinclair AH. NR5A1 gene variants repress the ovarian-specific WNT signaling pathway in 46,XX disorders of sex development patients. Hum Mutat 2018; 40:207-216. [PMID: 30350900 PMCID: PMC6492147 DOI: 10.1002/humu.23672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Several recent reports have described a missense variant in the gene NR5A1 (c.274C>T; p.Arg92Trp) in a significant number of 46,XX ovotesticular or testicular disorders of sex development (DSDs) cases. The affected residue falls within the DNA‐binding domain of the NR5A1 protein, however the exact mechanism by which it causes testicular development in 46,XX individuals remains unclear. We have screened a cohort of 26 patients with 46,XX (ovo)testicular DSD and identified three unrelated individuals with this NR5A1 variant (p.Arg92Trp), as well as one patient with a novel NR5A1 variant (c.779C>T; p.Ala260Val). We examined the functional effect of these changes, finding that while protein levels and localization were unaffected, variant NR5A1 proteins repress the WNT signaling pathway and have less ability to upregulate the anti‐testis gene NR0B1. These findings highlight how NR5A1 variants impact ovarian differentiation across multiple pathways, resulting in a switch from ovarian to testis development in genetic females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid M Knarston
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Brittany Croft
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jason Yates
- The Townsville Hospital, Department of Health, Queensland, Australia
| | - Remko Hersmus
- Department of Pathology, Josephine Nefkens Building, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Department of Pathology, Josephine Nefkens Building, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fergus J Cameron
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Klaus Monhike
- Otto-von-Guericke Universität, Universitätskinderklinik, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Katie L Ayers
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Audí L, Ahmed SF, Krone N, Cools M, McElreavey K, Holterhus PM, Greenfield A, Bashamboo A, Hiort O, Wudy SA, McGowan R. GENETICS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Approaches to molecular genetic diagnosis in the management of differences/disorders of sex development (DSD): position paper of EU COST Action BM 1303 ‘DSDnet’. Eur J Endocrinol 2018; 179:R197-R206. [PMID: 30299888 PMCID: PMC6182188 DOI: 10.1530/eje-18-0256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The differential diagnosis of differences or disorders of sex development (DSD) belongs to the most complex fields in medicine. It requires a multidisciplinary team conducting a synoptic and complementary approach consisting of thorough clinical, hormonal and genetic workups. This position paper of EU COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) Action BM1303 ‘DSDnet’ was written by leading experts in the field and focuses on current best practice in genetic diagnosis in DSD patients. Ascertainment of the karyotpye defines one of the three major diagnostic DSD subclasses and is therefore the mandatory initial step. Subsequently, further analyses comprise molecular studies of monogenic DSD causes or analysis of copy number variations (CNV) or both. Panels of candidate genes provide rapid and reliable results. Whole exome and genome sequencing (WES and WGS) represent valuable methodological developments that are currently in the transition from basic science to clinical routine service in the field of DSD. However, in addition to covering known DSD candidate genes, WES and WGS help to identify novel genetic causes for DSD. Diagnostic interpretation must be performed with utmost caution and needs careful scientific validation in each DSD case.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Audí
- Growth and Development Research Unit, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence should be addressed to L Audí;
| | - S F Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - N Krone
- Academic Unit of Child Health, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Western Bank, Sheffield, UK
| | - M Cools
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Paediatrics and Internal Medicine Research Unit, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K McElreavey
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - P M Holterhus
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein and Christian Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - A Greenfield
- Mammalian Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell Institute, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - A Bashamboo
- Human Developmental Genetics, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - O Hiort
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - S A Wudy
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - R McGowan
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Laboratories Building, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
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22
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Yang Y, Workman S, Wilson M. The molecular pathways underlying early gonadal development. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 62:JME-17-0314. [PMID: 30042122 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The body of knowledge surrounding reproductive development spans the fields of genetics, anatomy, physiology and biomedicine, to build a comprehensive understanding of the later stages of reproductive development in humans and animal models. Despite this, there remains much to learn about the bi-potential progenitor structure that the ovary and testis arise from, known as the genital ridge (GR). This tissue forms relatively late in embryonic development and has the potential to form either the ovary or testis, which in turn produce hormones required for development of the rest of the reproductive tract. It is imperative that we understand the genetic networks underpinning GR development if we are to begin to understand abnormalities in the adult. This is particularly relevant in the contexts of disorders of sex development (DSDs) and infertility, two conditions that many individuals struggle with worldwide, with often no answers as to their aetiology. Here, we review what is known about the genetics of GR development. Investigating the genetic networks required for GR formation will not only contribute to our understanding of the genetic regulation of reproductive development, it may in turn open new avenues of investigation into reproductive abnormalities and later fertility issues in the adult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisheng Yang
- Y Yang, Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Megan Wilson
- M Wilson , Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Witchel SF. Disorders of sex development. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2018; 48:90-102. [PMID: 29503125 PMCID: PMC5866176 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Normal sex development depends on the precise spatio-temporal sequence and coordination of mutually antagonistic activating and repressing factors. These factors regulate the commitment of the unipotential gonad into the binary pathways governing normal sex development. Typically, the presence of the SRY gene on the Y chromosome triggers the cascade of molecular events that lead to male sex development. Disorders of sex development comprise a heterogeneous group of congenital conditions associated with atypical development of internal and external genitalia. These disorders are generally attributed to deviations from the typical progression of sex development. Disorders of sex development can be classified into several categories including chromosomal, gonadal, and anatomic abnormalities. Genetic tools such as microarray analyses and next-generation sequencing techniques have identified novel genetic variants among patients with disorders of sexual development. Most importantly, patient management needs to be individualized, especially for decisions related to sex of rearing, surgical interventions, hormone treatment, and potential for fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Feldman Witchel
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, University of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA.
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Takasawa K, Igarashi M, Ono M, Takemoto A, Takada S, Yamataka A, Ogata T, Morio T, Fukami M, Kashimada K. Phenotypic Variation in 46,XX Disorders of Sex Development due to the NR5A1 p.R92W Variant: A Sibling Case Report and Literature Review. Sex Dev 2018; 11:284-288. [PMID: 29393271 DOI: 10.1159/000485868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, a heterozygous missense mutation in NR5A1, p.R92W, was identified as a cause of 46,XX testicular/ovo-testicular disorders of sexual development (DSD). We report a sibling pair with 46,XX DSD due to an NR5A1 mutation with distinct phenotypes, including external and internal genitalia and gonads, for whom different rearing sexes were selected. Thus, the phenotypes of p.R92W vary, even within a family. The father of the patients showed oligozoospermia with the p.R92W mutation, suggesting that in 46,XY individuals, the mutation would cause various gonadal phenotypes. We review and discuss the general role of the R92W mutation in sexual development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Takasawa
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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McElreavey K, Achermann JC. Steroidogenic Factor-1 (SF-1, NR5A1) and
46,XX Ovotesticular Disorders of Sex Development:
One Factor, Many Phenotypes. Horm Res Paediatr 2017; 87:189-190. [PMID: 27978531 PMCID: PMC5569707 DOI: 10.1159/000454806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - John C. Achermann
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK,*John C. Achermann, MD, PhD, Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH (UK), E-Mail
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