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Da'as SI, Thanassoulas A, Calver BL, Saleh A, Abdelrahman D, Hasan W, Safieh-Garabedian B, Kontogianni I, Nasrallah GK, Nounesis G, Lai FA, Nomikos M. Divergent Biochemical Properties and Disparate Impact of Arrhythmogenic Calmodulin Mutations on Zebrafish Cardiac Function. J Cell Biochem 2024; 125:e30619. [PMID: 38946237 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30619] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous, small cytosolic calcium (Ca2+)-binding sensor that plays a vital role in many cellular processes by binding and regulating the activity of over 300 protein targets. In cardiac muscle, CaM modulates directly or indirectly the activity of several proteins that play a key role in excitation-contraction coupling (ECC), such as ryanodine receptor type 2 (RyR2), l-type Ca2+ (Cav1.2), sodium (NaV1.5) and potassium (KV7.1) channels. Many recent clinical and genetic studies have reported a series of CaM mutations in patients with life-threatening arrhythmogenic syndromes, such as long QT syndrome (LQTS) and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT). We recently showed that four arrhythmogenic CaM mutations (N98I, D132E, D134H, and Q136P) significantly reduce the binding of CaM to RyR2. Herein, we investigate in vivo functional effects of these CaM mutations on the normal zebrafish embryonic heart function by microinjecting complementary RNA corresponding to CaMN98I, CaMD132E, CaMD134H, and CaMQ136P mutants. Expression of CaMD132E and CaMD134H mutants results in significant reduction of the zebrafish heart rate, mimicking a severe form of human bradycardia, whereas expression of CaMQ136P results in an increased heart rate mimicking human ventricular tachycardia. Moreover, analysis of cardiac ventricular rhythm revealed that the CaMD132E and CaMN98I zebrafish groups display an irregular pattern of heart beating and increased amplitude in comparison to the control groups. Furthermore, circular dichroism spectroscopy experiments using recombinant CaM proteins reveals a decreased structural stability of the four mutants compared to the wild-type CaM protein in the presence of Ca2+. Finally, Ca2+-binding studies indicates that all CaM mutations display reduced CaM Ca2+-binding affinities, with CaMD132E exhibiting the most prominent change. Our data suggest that CaM mutations can trigger different arrhythmogenic phenotypes through multiple and complex molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar I Da'as
- Department of Human Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Brian L Calver
- Sir Geraint Evans Wales Heart Research Institute, College of Biomedical and Life Science, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Alaaeldin Saleh
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Waseem Hasan
- Department of Human Genetics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Iris Kontogianni
- National Centre for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Agia Paraskevi, Greece
- National Technical University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Gheyath K Nasrallah
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - George Nounesis
- National Centre for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Agia Paraskevi, Greece
| | - F Anthony Lai
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Sir Geraint Evans Wales Heart Research Institute, College of Biomedical and Life Science, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Michail Nomikos
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Horng JL, Hsiao BY, Lin WT, Lin TT, Chang CY, Lin LY. Investigation of verapamil-induced cardiorenal dysfunction and compensatory ion regulation in zebrafish embryos. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 284:109980. [PMID: 39038748 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the development of verapamil-induced cardiorenal failure and the response of epidermal ionocytes in zebrafish embryos to this syndrome. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to verapamil for 24 h at different developmental stages (48, 72, and 96 h post-fertilization). The exposure resulted in the generation of edema in the pericardial and yolk sac regions, with more-pronounced effects observed in later-stage embryos. Cardiac parameters showed a suppressed heart rate at all stages, with a more-significant effect appearing in later stages. Verapamil also affected cardiac parameters including the end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), ejection fraction (EF), and cardiac output (CO), indicating negative overall effects on cardiac performance. mRNA levels of heart failure markers (nppa and nppb genes) were upregulated in verapamil-exposed embryos at all stages. Renal function was impaired as FITC-dextran excretion was suppressed. A whole-embryo ion content analysis revealed significant increases in sodium and calcium contents in verapamil-exposed embryos. The density of epidermal ionocytes increased, and the apical membrane of ionocytes was enlarged, indicating upregulation of ion uptake. In addition, mRNA levels of several ion transporter genes (rhcg1, slc9a3, atp6v1a, atp2b1a, trpv6, and slc12a10.2) were significantly upregulated in verapamil-exposed embryos. In summary, prolonged exposure to verapamil can induce cardiorenal failure which triggers compensatory upregulation of ionocytes in zebrafish embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiun-Lin Horng
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Bu-Yuan Hsiao
- Division of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Taipei Heart Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ting Lin
- Affiliated Senior High School of National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 10658, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Ting Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yen Chang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Li-Yih Lin
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 11677, Taiwan.
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Sree Kumar H, Wisner AS, Schiefer IT, Alviter Plata A, Zubcevic J. Chronotropic and vasoactive properties of the gut bacterial short-chain fatty acids in larval zebrafish. Physiol Genomics 2024; 56:426-435. [PMID: 38557279 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00013.2024] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by the gut bacteria have been associated with cardiovascular dysfunction in humans and rodents. However, studies exploring effects of SCFAs on cardiovascular parameters in the zebrafish, an increasingly popular model in cardiovascular research, remain limited. Here, we performed fecal bacterial 16S sequencing and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine the composition and abundance of gut microbiota and SCFAs in adult zebrafish. Following this, the acute effects of major SCFAs on heart rate and vascular tone were measured in anesthetized zebrafish larvae using fecal concentrations of butyrate, acetate, and propionate. Finally, we investigated if coincubation with butyrate may lessen the effects of angiotensin II (ANG II) and phenylephrine (PE) on vascular tone in anesthetized zebrafish larvae. We found that the abundance in Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Fusobacteria phyla in the adult zebrafish resembled those reported in rodents and humans. SCFA levels with highest concentration of acetate (27.43 µM), followed by butyrate (2.19 µM) and propionate (1.65 µM) were observed in the fecal samples of adult zebrafish. Immersion in butyrate and acetate produced a ∼20% decrease in heart rate (HR), respectively, with no observed effects of propionate. Butyrate alone also produced an ∼25% decrease in the cross-sectional width of the dorsal aorta (DA) at 60 min (*P < 0.05), suggesting compensatory vasoconstriction, with no effects of either acetate or propionate. In addition, butyrate significantly alleviated the decrease in DA cross-sectional width produced by both ANG II and PE. We demonstrate the potential for zebrafish in investigation of host-microbiota interactions in cardiovascular health.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We highlight the presence of a core gut microbiota and demonstrate in vivo short-chain fatty acid production in adult zebrafish. In addition, we show cardio-beneficial vasoactive and chronotropic properties of butyrate, and chronotropic properties of acetate in anesthetized zebrafish larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemaa Sree Kumar
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Alexander S Wisner
- Department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, University of Toledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
- Center for Drug Design and Development, University of Toledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Isaac T Schiefer
- Department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, University of Toledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
- Center for Drug Design and Development, University of Toledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Adriana Alviter Plata
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Jasenka Zubcevic
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
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Cobham AE, Rohner N. Unraveling stress resilience: Insights from adaptations to extreme environments by Astyanax mexicanus cavefish. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART B, MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2024; 342:178-188. [PMID: 38247307 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.23238] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Extreme environmental conditions have profound impacts on shaping the evolutionary trajectory of organisms. Exposure to these conditions elicits stress responses, that can trigger phenotypic changes in novel directions. The Mexican Tetra, Astyanax mexicanus, is an excellent model for understanding evolutionary mechanisms in response to extreme or new environments. This fish species consists of two morphs; the classical surface-dwelling fish and the blind cave-dwellers that inhabit dark and biodiversity-reduced ecosystems. In this review, we explore the specific stressors present in cave environments and examine the diverse adaptive strategies employed by cave populations to not only survive but thrive as successful colonizers. By analyzing the evolutionary responses of A. mexicanus, we gain valuable insights into the genetic, physiological, and behavioral adaptations that enable organisms to flourish under challenging environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansa E Cobham
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Missouri, Kansas City, USA
| | - Nicolas Rohner
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Missouri, Kansas City, USA
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
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Seli DA, Prendergast A, Ergun Y, Tyagi A, Taylor HS. High NaCl Concentrations in Water Are Associated with Developmental Abnormalities and Altered Gene Expression in Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4104. [PMID: 38612913 PMCID: PMC11012806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074104] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Salt is frequently introduced in ecosystems, where it acts as a pollutant. This study examined how changes in salinity affect the survival and development of zebrafish from the two-cell to the blastocyst stage and from the blastocyst to the larval stage. Control zebrafish embryos were cultured in E3 medium containing 5 mM Sodium Chloride (NaCl), 0.17 mM Potassium Chloride (KCL), 0.33 mM Calcium Chloride (CaCl2), and 0.33 mM Magnesium Sulfade (MgSO4). Experiments were conducted using increasing concentrations of each individual salt at 5×, 10×, 50×, and 100× the concentration found in E3 medium. KCL, CaCl2, and MgSO4 did not result in lethal abnormalities and did not affect early embryo growth at any of the concentrations tested. Concentrations of 50× and 100× NaCl caused embryonic death in both stages of development. Concentrations of 5× and 10× NaCl resulted in uninflated swim bladders in 12% and 65% of larvae, compared to 4.2% of controls, and caused 1654 and 2628 genes to be differentially expressed in blastocysts, respectively. The ATM signaling pathway was affected, and the Sonic Hedgehog pathway genes Shh and Ptc1 implicated in swim bladder development were downregulated. Our findings suggest that increased NaCl concentrations may alter gene expression and cause developmental abnormalities in animals found in affected ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis A. Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Andrew Prendergast
- Yale Zebrafish Phenotyping Core, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Yagmur Ergun
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA New Jersey, Marlton, NJ 08053, USA
| | - Antariksh Tyagi
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Hugh S. Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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Wan M, Liu J, Yang D, Xiao Z, Li X, Liu J, Huang L, Liu F, Zhang S, Tao Q, Xiao J, Cao Z. Dimethyl fumarate induces cardiac developmental toxicity in zebrafish via down-regulation of oxidative stress. Toxicology 2024; 503:153735. [PMID: 38272385 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153735] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an immunosuppressant commonly used to treat multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases. Despite known side effects such as lymphopenia, the effect of DMF on cardiac development remains unclear. To assess this, we used zebrafish to evaluate the cardiac developmental toxicity of DMF. Our study showed that DMF reduced the survival rate of zebrafish embryos, with those exposed to 1, 1.3, and 1.6 mg/L exhibiting heart rate reduction, shortened body length, delayed yolk sac absorption, pericardial edema, increased distance from sinus venous to bulbus arteriosus, and separation of cardiomyocytes and endocardial cells at 72 hpf. Heart development-related genes showed disorder, apoptosis-related genes were up-regulated, and the oxidative stress response was down-regulated. Treatment with cysteamine ameliorated the heart development defects. Our study demonstrates that DMF induces cardiac developmental toxicity in zebrafish, possibly by down-regulating oxidative stress responses. This study provides a certain research basis for further study of DMF-induced cardiac developmental toxicity, and provides some experimental evidence for future clinical application and study of DMF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Wan
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Department of General Surgery,The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006,China
| | - Jiejun Liu
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China
| | - Dou Yang
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhonghao Xiao
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China
| | - Xue Li
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China
| | - Jieping Liu
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China
| | - Ling Huang
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China
| | - Fasheng Liu
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China
| | - Shouhua Zhang
- Department of General Surgery,The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006,China
| | - Qiang Tao
- Department of General Surgery,The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006,China
| | - Juhua Xiao
- Department of Ultrasound, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Zigang Cao
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Organs, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases, Ji'an, Jiangxi, China, College of Life Sciences, Clinical Research Center of Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, 343009 Jiangxi, China.
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7
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Schindler M, Endlich N. Zebrafish as a model for podocyte research. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2024; 326:F369-F381. [PMID: 38205541 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00335.2023] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Podocytes, specialized postmitotic cells, are central players in various kidney-related diseases. Zebrafish have become a valuable model system for studying podocyte biology because they are genetically easy to manipulate, transparent, and their glomerular structure is similar to that of mammals. This review provides an overview of the knowledge of podocyte biology in zebrafish larvae, with particular focus on their essential contribution to understanding the mechanisms that underlie kidney diseases as well as supporting drug development. In addition, special attention is given to advances in live-imaging techniques allowing the observation of dynamic processes, including podocyte motility, podocyte process behavior, and glomerulus maturation. The review further addresses the functional aspects of podocytes in zebrafish larvae. This includes topics such as glomerular filtration, ultrastructural analyses, and evaluation of podocyte response to nephrotoxic insults. Studies presented in this context have provided important insights into the maintenance and resistance of the glomerular filtration barrier in zebrafish larvae and explored the potential transferability of these findings to mammals such as mice, rats, and most importantly, humans. The recent ability to identify potential therapeutic targets represents a promising new way to identify drugs that could effectively treat podocyte-associated glomerulopathies in humans. In summary, this review gives an overview about the importance of zebrafish as a model for podocyte-related disease and targeted drug development. It also highlights the key role of advanced imaging techniques in transparent zebrafish larvae, improving our understanding of glomerular diseases and the significant potential for translation of these findings to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Schindler
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Nicole Endlich
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Genge CE, Muralidharan P, Kemp J, Hull CM, Yip M, Simpson K, Hunter DV, Claydon TW. Zebrafish cardiac repolarization does not functionally depend on the expression of the hERG1b-like transcript. Pflugers Arch 2024; 476:87-99. [PMID: 37934265 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-023-02875-z] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Zebrafish provide a translational model of human cardiac function. Their similar cardiac electrophysiology enables screening of human cardiac repolarization disorders, drug arrhythmogenicity, and novel antiarrhythmic therapeutics. However, while zebrafish cardiac repolarization is driven by delayed rectifier potassium channel current (IKr), the relative role of alternate channel transcripts is uncertain. While human ether-a-go-go-related-gene-1a (hERG1a) is the dominant transcript in humans, expression of the functionally distinct alternate transcript, hERG1b, modifies the electrophysiological and pharmacologic IKr phenotype. Studies of zebrafish IKr are frequently translated without consideration for the presence and impact of hERG1b in humans. Here, we performed phylogenetic analyses of all available KCNH genes from Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes). Our findings confirmed zebrafish cardiac zkcnh6a as the paralog of human hERG1a (hKCNH2a), but also revealed evidence of a hERG1b (hKCNH2b)-like N-terminally truncated gene, zkcnh6b, in zebrafish. zkcnh6b is a teleost-specific variant that resulted from the 3R genome duplication. qRT-PCR showed dominant expression of zkcnh6a in zebrafish atrial and ventricular tissue, with low levels of zkcnh6b. Functional evaluation of zkcnh6b in a heterologous system showed no discernable function under the conditions tested, and no influence on zkcnh6a function during the zebrafish ventricular action potential. Our findings provide the first descriptions of the zkcnh6b gene, and show that, unlike in humans, zebrafish cardiac repolarization does not rely upon co-assembly of zERG1a/zERG1b. Given that hERG1b modifies IKr function and drug binding in humans, our findings highlight the need for consideration when translating hERG variant effects and toxicological screens in zebrafish, which lack a functional hERG1b-equivalent gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Genge
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada
| | - Padmapriya Muralidharan
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada
| | - Jake Kemp
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada
| | - Christina M Hull
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada
| | - Mandy Yip
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada
| | - Kyle Simpson
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada
| | - Diana V Hunter
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada
| | - Thomas W Claydon
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, B.C, Canada.
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9
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Ali R, Sen S, Hameed R, Nazir A, Verma S. Strategies for gaseous neuromodulator release in chemical neuroscience: Experimental approaches and translational validation. J Control Release 2024; 365:132-160. [PMID: 37972768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.11.014] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Gasotransmitters are a group of short-lived gaseous signaling molecules displaying diverse biological functions depending upon their localized concentration. Nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and carbon monoxide (CO) are three important examples of endogenously produced gasotransmitters that play a crucial role in human neurophysiology and pathogenesis. Alterations in their optimal physiological concentrations can lead to various severe pathophysiological consequences, including neurological disorders. Exogenous administration of gasotransmitters has emerged as a prominent therapeutic approach for treating such neurological diseases. However, their gaseous nature and short half-life limit their therapeutic delivery. Therefore, developing synthetic gasotransmitter-releasing strategies having control over the release and duration of these gaseous molecules has become imperative. However, the complex chemistry of synthesis and the challenges of specific quantified delivery of these gases, make their therapeutic application a challenging task. This review article provides a focused overview of emerging strategies for delivering gasotransmitters in a controlled and sustained manner to re-establish neurophysiological homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafat Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur 208016, UP, India
| | - Shantanu Sen
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur 208016, UP, India
| | - Rohil Hameed
- Division of Neuroscience and Ageing Biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, UP, India
| | - Aamir Nazir
- Division of Neuroscience and Ageing Biology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, UP, India.
| | - Sandeep Verma
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur 208016, UP, India; Center for Nanoscience, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur 208016, UP, India; Mehta Family Center for Engineering in Medicine, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur 208016, UP, India.
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10
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Soncini R, Klein W. Surface tension in biological systems - a common problem with a variety of solutions. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2023; 284:111475. [PMID: 37421990 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2023.111475] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Water is of fundamental importance to living organisms, not only as a universal solvent to maintain metabolic activity but also due to the effects the physical properties of water have on different organismal structures. In this review, we explore some examples of how living organisms deal with surfaces covered with or in contact with water. While we do not intend to describe all possible forms of interactions in every minute detail, we would like to draw attention to this intriguing interdisciplinary subject and discuss the positive and negative effects of the interaction forces between water molecules and organisms. Topics explored include locomotion on water, wettability of surfaces, benefits of retaining a film of air while submerged (Salvinia effect), surface tension of water inhibiting air-breathing, accumulation of water in small tubes, surface tension in non-mammalian and mammalian respiratory systems. In each topic, we address the importance of interactions with water and the adaptations seen in an organism to solve the surface-related challenges, trying to explore the different selective pressures acting onto different organisms allowing exploring or compensating these surface-related interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roseli Soncini
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Wilfried Klein
- Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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11
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Sree Kumar H, Wisner AS, Refsnider JM, Martyniuk CJ, Zubcevic J. Small fish, big discoveries: zebrafish shed light on microbial biomarkers for neuro-immune-cardiovascular health. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1186645. [PMID: 37324381 PMCID: PMC10267477 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1186645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have emerged as a powerful model to study the gut microbiome in the context of human conditions, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, and immune dysfunction. Here, we highlight zebrafish as a tool to bridge the gap in knowledge in linking the gut microbiome and physiological homeostasis of cardiovascular, neural, and immune systems, both independently and as an integrated axis. Drawing on zebrafish studies to date, we discuss challenges in microbiota transplant techniques and gnotobiotic husbandry practices. We present advantages and current limitations in zebrafish microbiome research and discuss the use of zebrafish in identification of microbial enterotypes in health and disease. We also highlight the versatility of zebrafish studies to further explore the function of human conditions relevant to gut dysbiosis and reveal novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemaa Sree Kumar
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Neurological Disorders, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Alexander S. Wisner
- Department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
- Center for Drug Design and Development, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Jeanine M. Refsnider
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Christopher J. Martyniuk
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, OH, United States
| | - Jasenka Zubcevic
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
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12
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Kämmer N, Reimann T, Ovcharova V, Braunbeck T. A novel automated method for the simultaneous detection of breathing frequency and amplitude in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos and larvae. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 258:106493. [PMID: 36963131 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Stress responses of fish to disruption of oxygen homeostasis include adjusted oxygen consumption rate (MO2) as well as the hyperventilation consisting of changes in breathing frequency (fv) and amplitude (fampl). However, studying the HVR in very small organisms such as zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos and larvae is challenging, and breathing movements (i.e., fv) are usually manually counted, which is time- and human resource-intense, error-prone and does not provide information on the amplitude of breathing movements of the response, the breathing amplitude (fampl). Hence, in the present study, a new automated method was developed to simultaneously measure fv and fampl in small zebrafish embryos and larvae with the computer software DanioScope™. To compare HVR strategies at different life-stages of zebrafish and the physiologically linked MO2, hatched 4 d old embryos and early gill-breathing 12 d old larvae were treated with the HVR-inducing neurotoxic compound lindane (γ-hexachlorocyclohexane; γ-HCH) as a model substance. Comparison of manually counted fv with fv data measured by DanioScope™ at both life-stages showed high to moderate agreement between the two methods with respect to fv in control fish and in fish treated with lower lindane concentrations (3 - 18% deviation at 25 µg/L γ-HCH). With increasing lindane concentrations (100 and 400 µg/L γ-HCH), however, manual counts showed an average underestimation of fv by up to 30%, mainly due to very fast, rapidly successive, and indistinct movements of the fish, which cannot be properly detected by manual counts. Automated measurement thus proved significantly more sensitive, although several pre- and post-processing steps are needed. The improved automated detection of fv and the first reliable estimation of fampl in small fish embryos and larvae, as well as the inclusion of MO2, may provide new insights into different respiratory strategies and may, thus, represent a tool to lower the detection limit for reactions of different life-stages of fish to environmental stressors. In the present study, this became evident, as early gill-breathing 12 d old zebrafish larvae showed symptoms of respiratory failure (i.e., increase in fv, fampl and MO2, followed by subsequent lethargy) after exposure to lindane, whereas skin-breathing in 4 d old embryos proved mainly insensitive to the paralytic effects of lindane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Kämmer
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 504, Heidelberg D-69210, Germany.
| | - Tanja Reimann
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 504, Heidelberg D-69210, Germany
| | - Viktoriia Ovcharova
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 504, Heidelberg D-69210, Germany
| | - Thomas Braunbeck
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 504, Heidelberg D-69210, Germany.
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13
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Wiegand J, Avila-Barnard S, Nemarugommula C, Lyons D, Zhang S, Stapleton HM, Volz DC. Triphenyl phosphate-induced pericardial edema in zebrafish embryos is dependent on the ionic strength of exposure media. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 172:107757. [PMID: 36680802 PMCID: PMC9974852 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Pericardial edema is commonly observed in zebrafish embryo-based chemical toxicity screens, and a mechanism underlying edema may be disruption of embryonic osmoregulation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify whether triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) - a widely used aryl phosphate ester-based flame retardant - induces pericardial edema via impacts on osmoregulation within embryonic zebrafish. In addition to an increase in TPHP-induced microridges in the embryonic yolk sac epithelium, an increase in ionic strength of exposure media exacerbated TPHP-induced pericardial edema when embryos were exposed from 24 to 72 h post-fertilization (hpf). However, there was no difference in embryonic sodium concentrations in situ within TPHP-exposed embryos relative to embryos exposed to vehicle (0.1% DMSO) from 24 to 72 hpf. Interestingly, increasing the osmolarity of exposure media with mannitol (an osmotic diuretic which mitigates TPHP-induced pericardial edema) and increasing the ionic strength of the exposure media (which exacerbates TPHP-induced pericardial edema) did not affect embryonic doses of TPHP, suggesting that TPHP uptake was not altered under these varying experimental conditions. Overall, our findings suggest that TPHP-induced pericardial edema within zebrafish embryos is dependent on the ionic strength of exposure media, underscoring the importance of further standardization of exposure media and embryo rearing protocols in zebrafish-based chemical toxicity screening assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Wiegand
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Sarah Avila-Barnard
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Charvita Nemarugommula
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - David Lyons
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Sharon Zhang
- Division of Environmental Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Division of Environmental Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - David C Volz
- Division of Environmental Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States.
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14
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Halabi R, Cechmanek PB, Hehr CL, McFarlane S. Semaphorin3f as a cardiomyocyte derived regulator of heart chamber development. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:126. [PMID: 35986301 PMCID: PMC9389736 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00874-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During development a pool of precursors form a heart with atrial and ventricular chambers that exhibit distinct transcriptional and electrophysiological properties. Normal development of these chambers is essential for full term survival of the fetus, and deviations result in congenital heart defects. The large number of genes that may cause congenital heart defects when mutated, and the genetic variability and penetrance of the ensuing phenotypes, reveals a need to understand the molecular mechanisms that allow for the formation of chamber-specific cardiomyocyte differentiation. Methods We used in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry and functional analyses to identify the consequences of the loss of the secreted semaphorin, Sema3fb, in the development of the zebrafish heart by using two sema3fb CRISPR mutant alleles. Results We find that in the developing zebrafish heart sema3fb mRNA is expressed by all cardiomyocytes, whereas mRNA for a known receptor Plexina3 (Plxna3) is expressed preferentially by ventricular cardiomyocytes. In sema3fb CRISPR zebrafish mutants, heart chamber development is impaired; the atria and ventricles of mutants are smaller in size than their wild type siblings, apparently because of differences in cell size and not cell numbers. Analysis of chamber differentiation indicates defects in chamber specific gene expression at the border between the ventricular and atrial chambers, with spillage of ventricular chamber genes into the atrium, and vice versa, and a failure to restrict specialized cardiomyocyte markers to the atrioventricular canal (AVC). The hypoplastic heart chambers are associated with decreased cardiac output and heart edema. Conclusions Based on our data we propose a model whereby cardiomyocytes secrete a Sema cue that, because of spatially restricted expression of the receptor, signals in a ventricular chamber-specific manner to establish a distinct border between atrial and ventricular chambers that is important to produce a fully functional heart. Video abstract
Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-022-00874-8.
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15
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An Z, Chiang WC, Fernández ÁF, Franco LH, He C, Huang SY, Lee E, Liu Y, Sebti S, Shoji-Kawata S, Sirasanagandla S, Wang RC, Wei Y, Zhao Y, Vega-Rubin-de-Celis S. Beth Levine’s Legacy: From the Discovery of BECN1 to Therapies. A Mentees’ Perspective. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:891332. [PMID: 35832792 PMCID: PMC9273008 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.891332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With great sadness, the scientific community received the news of the loss of Beth Levine on 15 June 2020. Dr. Levine was a pioneer in the autophagy field and work in her lab led not only to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating the pathway, but also its implications in multiple physiological and pathological conditions, including its role in development, host defense, tumorigenesis, aging or metabolism. This review does not aim to provide a comprehensive view of autophagy, but rather an outline of some of the discoveries made by the group of Beth Levine, from the perspective of some of her own mentees, hoping to honor her legacy in science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyi An
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Wei-Chung Chiang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Álvaro F. Fernández
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Instituto Universitario de Oncología (IUOPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Luis H. Franco
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - CongCong He
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Shu-Yi Huang
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Eunmyong Lee
- InnoCure Therapeutics Inc., Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Salwa Sebti
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | | | | | - Richard C. Wang
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Yongjie Wei
- Cancer Research Institute, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuting Zhao
- Institute of Future Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Silvia Vega-Rubin-de-Celis
- Institute for Cell Biology (Cancer Research), Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Silvia Vega-Rubin-de-Celis, ,
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16
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Yoon B, Yeung P, Santistevan N, Bluhm LE, Kawasaki K, Kueper J, Dubielzig R, VanOudenhove J, Cotney J, Liao EC, Grinblat Y. Zebrafish models of alx-linked frontonasal dysplasia reveal a role for Alx1 and Alx3 in the anterior segment and vasculature of the developing eye. Biol Open 2022; 11:bio059189. [PMID: 35142342 PMCID: PMC9167625 DOI: 10.1242/bio.059189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular and genetic mechanisms that coordinate formation of facial sensory structures with surrounding skeletal and soft tissue elements remain poorly understood. Alx1, a homeobox transcription factor, is a key regulator of midfacial morphogenesis. ALX1 mutations in humans are linked to severe congenital anomalies of the facial skeleton (frontonasal dysplasia, FND) with malformation or absence of eyes and orbital contents (micro- and anophthalmia). Zebrafish with loss-of-function alx1 mutations develop with craniofacial and ocular defects of variable penetrance, likely due to compensatory upregulation in expression of a paralogous gene, alx3. Here we show that zebrafish alx1;alx3 mutants develop with highly penetrant cranial and ocular defects that resemble human ALX1-linked FND. alx1 and alx3 are expressed in anterior cranial neural crest (aCNC), which gives rise to the anterior neurocranium (ANC), anterior segment structures of the eye and vascular pericytes. Consistent with a functional requirement for alx genes in aCNC, alx1; alx3 mutants develop with nearly absent ANC and grossly aberrant hyaloid vasculature and ocular anterior segment, but normal retina. In vivo lineage labeling identified a requirement for alx1 and alx3 during aCNC migration, and transcriptomic analysis suggested oxidative stress response as a key target mechanism of this function. Oxidative stress is a hallmark of fetal alcohol toxicity, and we found increased penetrance of facial and ocular malformations in alx1 mutants exposed to ethanol, consistent with a protective role for alx1 against ethanol toxicity. Collectively, these data demonstrate a conserved role for zebrafish alx genes in controlling ocular and facial development, and a novel role in protecting these key midfacial structures from ethanol toxicity during embryogenesis. These data also reveal novel roles for alx genes in ocular anterior segment formation and vascular development and suggest that retinal deficits in alx mutants may be secondary to aberrant ocular vascularization and anterior segment defects. This study establishes robust zebrafish models for interrogating conserved genetic mechanisms that coordinate facial and ocular development, and for exploring gene--environment interactions relevant to fetal alcohol syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baul Yoon
- Departments of Integrative Biology and Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Genetics Ph.D. Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Pan Yeung
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, 02114, USA
| | - Nicholas Santistevan
- Departments of Integrative Biology and Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Genetics Ph.D. Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Lauren E. Bluhm
- Departments of Integrative Biology and Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Kenta Kawasaki
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, 02114, USA
| | - Janina Kueper
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, 02114, USA
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Richard Dubielzig
- Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW), University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jennifer VanOudenhove
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Justin Cotney
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Eric C. Liao
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, 02114, USA
| | - Yevgenya Grinblat
- Departments of Integrative Biology and Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Genetics Ph.D. Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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17
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Espinosa KG, Geissah S, Groom L, Volpatti J, Scott IC, Dirksen RT, Zhao M, Dowling JJ. Characterization of a novel zebrafish model of SPEG-related centronuclear myopathy. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:275324. [PMID: 35293586 PMCID: PMC9118044 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Centronuclear myopathy (CNM) is a congenital neuromuscular disorder caused by pathogenic variation in genes associated with membrane trafficking and excitation–contraction coupling (ECC). Bi-allelic autosomal-recessive mutations in striated muscle enriched protein kinase (SPEG) account for a subset of CNM patients. Previous research has been limited by the perinatal lethality of constitutive Speg knockout mice. Thus, the precise biological role of SPEG in developing skeletal muscle remains unknown. To address this issue, we generated zebrafish spega, spegb and spega;spegb (speg-DKO) mutant lines. We demonstrated that speg-DKO zebrafish faithfully recapitulate multiple phenotypes associated with CNM, including disruption of the ECC machinery, dysregulation of calcium homeostasis during ECC and impairment of muscle performance. Taking advantage of zebrafish models of multiple CNM genetic subtypes, we compared novel and known disease markers in speg-DKO with mtm1-KO and DNM2-S619L transgenic zebrafish. We observed Desmin accumulation common to all CNM subtypes, and Dnm2 upregulation in muscle of both speg-DKO and mtm1-KO zebrafish. In all, we establish a new model of SPEG-related CNM, and identify abnormalities in this model suitable for defining disease pathomechanisms and evaluating potential therapies. This article has an associated First Person interview with the joint first authors of the paper. Summary: We created a novel zebrafish Speg mutant model of centronuclear myopathy that recapitulates key features of the human disorder and provides insight into pathomechanisms of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla G Espinosa
- Program for Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Medical Science Building, Room 4386, 1 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Salma Geissah
- Program for Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Medical Science Building, Room 4386, 1 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Linda Groom
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester Medical Centre, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Jonathan Volpatti
- Program for Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Ian C Scott
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Medical Science Building, Room 4386, 1 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.,Program for Development and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Robert T Dirksen
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester Medical Centre, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Mo Zhao
- Program for Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - James J Dowling
- Program for Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Medical Science Building, Room 4386, 1 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Room 1436D, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
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18
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Schweizer M, von der Ohe PC, Gräff T, Kühnen U, Hebel J, Heid C, Kundy L, Kuttler J, Moroff FM, Schlösinger AF, Schulze-Berge P, Triebskorn R, Panagopoulou E, Damalas DE, Thomaidis NS, Köhler HR. Heart rate as an early warning parameter and proxy for subsequent mortality in Danio rerio embryos exposed to ionisable substances. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 818:151744. [PMID: 34808159 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Environmental risk assessments of organic chemicals usually do not consider pH as a key factor. Hence, most substances are tested at a single pH only, which may underestimate the toxicity of ionisable substances with a pKa in the range of 4-10. Thus, the ability to consider the pH-dependent toxicity would be crucial for a more realistic assessment. Moreover, there is a tendency in acute toxicity tests to focus on mortality only, while little attention is paid to sublethal endpoints. We used Danio rerio embryos exposed to ten ionisable substances (the acids diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen and triclosan and the bases citalopram, fluoxetine, metoprolol, propranolol, tramadol and tetracaine) at four external pH levels, investigating the endpoints mortality (LC50) and heart rate (EC20). Dose-response curves were fitted with an ensemble-model to determine the true uncertainty and variation around the mean endpoints. The ensemble considers eight (heart rate) or twelve (mortality) individual models for binominal and Poisson distributed data, respectively, selected based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). In case of equally good models, the mean endpoint of all models in the ensemble was calculated, resulting in more robust ECx estimates with lower 'standard errors' as compared to randomly selected individual models. We detected a high correlation between mortality (LC50) at 96 hpf and reduced heart rate (EC20) at 48 hpf for all compounds and all external pH levels (r = 0.98). Moreover, the observed pH-dependent effects were strongly associated with log D and thus, likely driven by differences in uptake (toxicokinetic) rather than internal (toxicodynamic) processes. Prospectively, the a priori consideration of pH-dependent effects of ionisable substances might make testing at different pH levels redundant, while the endpoint of mortality might even be replaced by a reliable sublethal proxy that would reduce the exposure, accelerating the evaluation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Schweizer
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Gräff
- German Environment Agency, Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844 Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Ute Kühnen
- German Environment Agency, Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844 Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Janine Hebel
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Heid
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lone Kundy
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julia Kuttler
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Friederike-Marie Moroff
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Anne-Frida Schlösinger
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pia Schulze-Berge
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Rita Triebskorn
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany; Steinbeis-Transfer Center Ecotoxicology and Ecophysiology, Blumenstrasse 13, D-72108 Rottenburg, Germany
| | - Elena Panagopoulou
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, GR-15784 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios E Damalas
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, GR-15784 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos S Thomaidis
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, GR-15784 Athens, Greece
| | - Heinz-R Köhler
- Animal Physiological Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 5, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
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19
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van der Weele CM, Jeffery WR. Cavefish cope with environmental hypoxia by developing more erythrocytes and overexpression of hypoxia-inducible genes. eLife 2022; 11:69109. [PMID: 34984980 PMCID: PMC8765751 DOI: 10.7554/elife.69109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Dark caves lacking primary productivity can expose subterranean animals to hypoxia. We used the surface-dwelling (surface fish) and cave-dwelling (cavefish) morphs of Astyanax mexicanus as a model for understanding the mechanisms of hypoxia tolerance in the cave environment. Primitive hematopoiesis, which is restricted to the posterior lateral mesoderm in other teleosts, also occurs in the anterior lateral mesoderm in Astyanax, potentially pre-adapting surface fish for hypoxic cave colonization. Cavefish have enlarged both hematopoietic domains and develop more erythrocytes than surface fish, which are required for normal development in both morphs. Laboratory-induced hypoxia suppresses growth in surface fish but not in cavefish. Both morphs respond to hypoxia by overexpressing hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (hif1) pathway genes, and some hif1 genes are constitutively upregulated in normoxic cavefish to similar levels as in hypoxic surface fish. We conclude that cavefish cope with hypoxia by increasing erythrocyte development and constitutive hif1 gene overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William R Jeffery
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, United States
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20
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Prescott LA, Regish AM, McMahon SJ, McCormick SD, Rummer JL. Rapid embryonic development supports the early onset of gill functions in two coral reef damselfishes. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:272637. [PMID: 34708857 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.242364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The gill is one of the most important organs for growth and survival of fishes. Early life stages in coral reef fishes often exhibit extreme physiological and demographic characteristics that are linked to well-established respiratory and ionoregulatory processes. However, gill development and function in coral reef fishes is not well understood. Therefore, we investigated gill morphology, oxygen uptake and ionoregulatory systems throughout embryogenesis in two coral reef damselfishes, Acanthochromis polyacanthus and Amphiprion melanopus (Pomacentridae). In both species, we found key gill structures to develop rapidly early in the embryonic phase. Ionoregulatory cells appear on gill filaments 3-4 days post-fertilization and increase in density, whilst disappearing or shrinking in cutaneous locations. Primary respiratory tissue (lamellae) appears 5-7 days post-fertilization, coinciding with a peak in oxygen uptake rates of the developing embryos. Oxygen uptake was unaffected by phenylhydrazine across all ages (pre-hatching), indicating that haemoglobin is not yet required for oxygen uptake. This suggests that gills have limited contribution to respiratory functions during embryonic development, at least until hatching. Rapid gill development in damselfishes, when compared with that in most previously investigated fishes, may reflect preparations for a high-performance, challenging lifestyle on tropical reefs, but may also make reef fishes more vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leteisha A Prescott
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia.,College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Amy M Regish
- US Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Conte Anadromous Fish Research Laboratory, Turners Falls, MA 01376, USA
| | - Shannon J McMahon
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Stephen D McCormick
- US Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Conte Anadromous Fish Research Laboratory, Turners Falls, MA 01376, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Jodie L Rummer
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia.,College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
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21
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Martínez-Bautista G, Martínez-Burguete T, Peña-Marín ES, Jiménez-Martínez LD, Martínez-García R, Camarillo-Coop S, Burggren WW, Álvarez-González CA. Hypoxia- and hyperoxia-related gene expression dynamics during developmental critical windows of the tropical gar Atractosteus tropicus. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 263:111093. [PMID: 34626804 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.111093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Aquatic hypoxia is both a naturally-occurring and anthropogenically-generated event. Fish species have evolved different adaptations to cope with hypoxic environments, including gill modifications and air breathing. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved in the respiration of embryonic and larval fishes during critical windows of development. We assessed expression of the genes hif-1α, fih-1, nhe1, epo, gr and il8 using the developing tropical gar as a piscine model during three developmental periods (fertilization to hatch, 1 to 6 days post hatch (dph) and 7 to 12 dph) when exposed to normoxia (~7.43 mg/L DO), hypoxia (~2.5 mg/L DO) or hyperoxia (~9.15 mg/L DO). All genes had higher expression when fish were exposed to either hypoxia or hyperoxia during the first two developmental periods. However, fish continuously exposed to hypoxia had increased expression of the six genes by hatching and 6 dph, and by 12 dph only hif-1α still had increased expression. The middle developmental period was the most hypoxia-sensitive, coinciding with several changes in physiology and morphology. The oldest larvae were the most resilient to gene expression change, with little variation in expression of the six genes compared. This study is the first to relate the molecular response of an air-breathing fish to oxygen availability to developmental critical windows and contributes to our understanding of some molecular responses of developing fish to changes in oxygen availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Martínez-Bautista
- Laboratorio de Acuacultura Tropical, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico; Developmental Physiology Laboratory, Developmental Integrative Biology Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, United States.
| | - Talhia Martínez-Burguete
- Laboratorio de Acuacultura Tropical, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - Emyr Saul Peña-Marín
- Laboratorio de Acuacultura Tropical, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - Luis Daniel Jiménez-Martínez
- División Académica Multidisciplinaria de Jalpa de Méndez, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Jalpa de Méndez, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - Rafael Martínez-García
- Laboratorio de Acuacultura Tropical, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - Susana Camarillo-Coop
- Laboratorio de Acuacultura Tropical, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - Warren W Burggren
- Developmental Physiology Laboratory, Developmental Integrative Biology Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, United States
| | - Carlos Alfonso Álvarez-González
- Laboratorio de Acuacultura Tropical, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico.
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22
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Sugden WW, North TE. Making Blood from the Vessel: Extrinsic and Environmental Cues Guiding the Endothelial-to-Hematopoietic Transition. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11101027. [PMID: 34685398 PMCID: PMC8539454 DOI: 10.3390/life11101027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
It is increasingly recognized that specialized subsets of endothelial cells carry out unique functions in specific organs and regions of the vascular tree. Perhaps the most striking example of this specialization is the ability to contribute to the generation of the blood system, in which a distinct population of “hemogenic” endothelial cells in the embryo transforms irreversibly into hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells that produce circulating erythroid, myeloid and lymphoid cells for the lifetime of an animal. This review will focus on recent advances made in the zebrafish model organism uncovering the extrinsic and environmental factors that facilitate hemogenic commitment and the process of endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition that produces blood stem cells. We highlight in particular biomechanical influences of hemodynamic forces and the extracellular matrix, metabolic and sterile inflammatory cues present during this developmental stage, and outline new avenues opened by transcriptomic-based approaches to decipher cell–cell communication mechanisms as examples of key signals in the embryonic niche that regulate hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wade W. Sugden
- Stem Cell Program, Department of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Trista E. North
- Stem Cell Program, Department of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Correspondence:
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23
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Joyce W, Perry SF. Hif-1α is not required for the development of cardiac adrenergic control in zebrafish (Danio rerio). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2021; 335:623-631. [PMID: 34288573 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Adrenergic regulation, acting via the sympathetic nervous system, provides a major mechanism to control cardiac function. It has recently been shown that hypoxia inducible factor-1α (Hif-1α) is necessary for normal development of sympathetic innervation and control of cardiac function in the mouse. To investigate whether this may represent a fundamental trait shared across vertebrates, we assessed adrenergic regulation of the heart in wild-type and Hif-1α knockout (hif-1α -/- ) zebrafish (Danio rerio). Wild-type and hif-1α -/- zebrafish larvae (aged 4 and 7 days postfertilisation) exhibited similar routine heart rates within a given age group, and β-adrenergic receptor blockade with propranolol universally reduced heart rate to comparable levels, indicating similar adrenergic tone in both genotypes. In adult fish, in vivo heart rate measured during anaesthesia was identical between genotypes. Treatment of spontaneously beating hearts in vitro with adrenaline revealed a similar positive chronotropic effect and similar maximum heart rates in both genotypes. Tyrosine hydroxylase immunohistochemistry with confocal microscopy demonstrated that the bulbus arteriosus (outflow tract of the teleost heart) of adult fish was particularly well innervated by sympathetic nerves, and nerve density (as a percentage of bulbus arteriosus area) was similar between wild-types and hif-1α -/- mutants. In summary, we did not find any evidence that adrenergic cardiac control was perturbed in larval or adult zebrafish lacking Hif-1α. We conclude that Hif-1α is not essential for the normal development of cardiovascular control or adult sympathetic cardiac innervation in zebrafish, although it is possible that it plays a redundant or auxiliary role.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Joyce
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Biology-Zoophysiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Steve F Perry
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Carroll C, Engström N, Nilsson PF, Haxen ER, Mohlin S, Berg P, Glud RN, Hammarlund EU. Hypoxia Generated by Avian Embryo Growth Induces the HIF-α Response and Critical Vascularization. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.675800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer research has transformed our view on cellular mechanisms for oxygen sensing. It has been documented that these mechanisms are important for maintaining animal tissues and life in environments where oxygen (O2) concentrations fluctuate. In adult animals, oxygen sensing is governed by the Hypoxia Inducible Factors (HIFs) that are stabilized at low oxygen concentrations (hypoxia). However, the importance of hypoxia itself during development and for the onset of HIF-driven oxygen sensing remains poorly explored. Cellular responses to hypoxia associates with cell immaturity (stemness) and proper tissue and organ development. During mammalian development, the initial uterine environment is hypoxic. The oxygenation status during avian embryogenesis is more complex since O2 continuously equilibrates across the porous eggshell. Here, we investigate HIF dynamics and use microelectrodes to determine O2 concentrations within the egg and the embryo during the first four days of development. To determine the increased O2 consumption rates, we also obtain the O2 transport coefficient (DO2) of eggshell and associated inner and outer shell membranes, both directly (using microelectrodes in ovo for the first time) and indirectly (using water evaporation at 37.5°C for the first time). Our results demonstrate a distinct hypoxic phase (<5% O2) between day 1 and 2, concurring with the onset of HIF-α expression. This phase of hypoxia is demonstrably necessary for proper vascularization and survival. Our indirectly determined DO2 values are about 30% higher than those determined directly. A comparison with previously reported values indicates that this discrepancy may be real, reflecting that water vapor and O2 may be transported through the eggshell at different rates. Based on our obtained DO2 values, we demonstrate that increased O2 consumption of the growing embryo appears to generate the phase of hypoxia, which is also facilitated by the initially small gas cell and low membrane permeability. We infer that the phase of in ovo hypoxia facilitates correct avian development. These results support the view that hypoxic conditions, in which the animal clade evolved, remain functionally important during animal development. The study highlights that insights from the cancer field pertaining to the cellular capacities by which both somatic and cancer cells register and respond to fluctuations in O2 concentrations can broadly inform our exploration of animal development and success.
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25
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Hughes MC, Perry SF. Does blood flow limit acute hypoxia performance in larval zebrafish (Danio rerio)? J Comp Physiol B 2021; 191:469-478. [PMID: 33580284 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-020-01331-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Oxygen uptake (ṀO2) in larval zebrafish prior to maturation of the gill relies on cutaneous O2 transfer. Under normoxic conditions, rates of cutaneous O2 transfer are unaffected by haemoglobin availability but are diminished in fish lacking a functional circulatory system, suggesting that internal convection is critically involved in setting the resting ṀO2 in zebrafish larvae, even when relying on cutaneous O2 transfer. The reliance of ṀO2 on blood circulation led to the first objective of the current study, to determine whether loss of internal convection would reduce acute hypoxia performance (as determined by measuring critical PO2; Pcrit) in larval zebrafish under conditions of moderate hypoxia (PO2 = 55 mmHg) at 28.5 and 34 °C. Internal convection was eliminated by preventing development of blood vessels using morpholino knockdown of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); these fish are termed VEGF morphants. Breathing frequency (fV) and heart rate (fH) also were measured (at 28.5 °C) to determine whether any detriment in performance might be linked to cardiorespiratory dysfunction. Although ṀO2 was reduced in the VEGF morphants, there was no significant effect on Pcrit at 28.5 °C. Raising temperature to 34 °C resulted in the VEGF morphants exhibiting a higher Pcrit than the shams, suggesting an impairment of hypoxia tolerance in the morphants at the higher temperature. The usual robust increase in fV during hypoxia was absent or attenuated in VEGF morphants at 4 and 5 days post fertilization (dpf), respectively. Resting fH was reduced in the VEGF morphants and unlike the sham fish, the morphants did not exhibit hypoxic tachycardia at 4 or 5 dpf. The number of cutaneous neuroepithelial cells (presumptive O2 chemoreceptors) was significantly higher in the VEGF morphants and thus the cardiorespiratory impairment in the morphants during hypoxia was unlikely related to inadequate peripheral O2 sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Hughes
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, 30 Marie Curie, Ottawa, ON, K1N6N5, Canada
| | - S F Perry
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, 30 Marie Curie, Ottawa, ON, K1N6N5, Canada.
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26
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Dhakal S, Rotem-Bamberger S, Sejd JR, Sebbagh M, Ronin N, Frey RA, Beitsch M, Batty M, Taler K, Blackerby JF, Inbal A, Stenkamp DL. Selective Requirements for Vascular Endothelial Cells and Circulating Factors in the Regulation of Retinal Neurogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:628737. [PMID: 33898420 PMCID: PMC8060465 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.628737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of the vertebrate eye requires signaling interactions between neural and non-neural tissues. Interactions between components of the vascular system and the developing neural retina have been difficult to decipher, however, due to the challenges of untangling these interactions from the roles of the vasculature in gas exchange. Here we use the embryonic zebrafish, which is not yet reliant upon hemoglobin-mediated oxygen transport, together with genetic strategies for (1) temporally-selective depletion of vascular endothelial cells, (2) elimination of blood flow through the circulation, and (3) elimination of cells of the erythroid lineage, including erythrocytes. The retinal phenotypes in these genetic systems were not identical, with endothelial cell-depleted retinas displaying laminar disorganization, cell death, reduced proliferation, and reduced cell differentiation. In contrast, the lack of blood flow resulted in a milder retinal phenotype showing reduced proliferation and reduced cell differentiation, indicating that an endothelial cell-derived factor(s) is/are required for laminar organization and cell survival. The lack of erythrocytes did not result in an obvious retinal phenotype, confirming that defects in retinal development that result from vascular manipulations are not due to poor gas exchange. These findings underscore the importance of the cardiovascular system supporting and controlling retinal development in ways other than supplying oxygen. In addition, these findings identify a key developmental window for these interactions and point to distinct functions for vascular endothelial cells vs. circulating factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susov Dhakal
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
| | - Shahar Rotem-Bamberger
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Josilyn R Sejd
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
| | - Meyrav Sebbagh
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nathan Ronin
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ruth A Frey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
| | - Mya Beitsch
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Megan Batty
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States.,Department of Biology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA, United States
| | - Kineret Taler
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jennifer F Blackerby
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States.,Department of Biology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA, United States
| | - Adi Inbal
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Deborah L Stenkamp
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
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27
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Dobbin SJ, Petrie MC, Myles RC, Touyz RM, Lang NN. Cardiotoxic effects of angiogenesis inhibitors. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:71-100. [PMID: 33404052 PMCID: PMC7812690 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of new therapies for cancer has led to dramatic improvements in survivorship. Angiogenesis inhibitors represent one such advancement, revolutionising treatment for a wide range of malignancies. However, these drugs are associated with cardiovascular toxicities which can impact optimal cancer treatment in the short-term and may lead to increased morbidity and mortality in the longer term. Vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (VEGFIs) are associated with hypertension, left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and heart failure as well as arterial and venous thromboembolism, QTc interval prolongation and arrhythmia. The mechanisms behind the development of VEGFI-associated LVSD and heart failure likely involve the combination of a number of myocardial insults. These include direct myocardial effects, as well as secondary toxicity via coronary or peripheral vascular damage. Cardiac toxicity may result from the 'on-target' effects of VEGF inhibition or 'off-target' effects resulting from inhibition of other tyrosine kinases. Similar mechanisms may be involved in the development of VEGFI-associated right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. Some VEGFIs can be associated with QTc interval prolongation and an increased risk of ventricular and atrial arrhythmia. Further pre-clinical and clinical studies and trials are needed to better understand the impact of VEGFI on the cardiovascular system. Once mechanisms are elucidated, therapies can be investigated in clinical trials and surveillance strategies for identifying VEGFI-associated cardiovascular complications can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J.H. Dobbin
- BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, 126 University Place, Glasgow, United Kingdom, G12 8TA
| | - Mark C. Petrie
- BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, 126 University Place, Glasgow, United Kingdom, G12 8TA
| | - Rachel C. Myles
- BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, 126 University Place, Glasgow, United Kingdom, G12 8TA
| | - Rhian M. Touyz
- BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, 126 University Place, Glasgow, United Kingdom, G12 8TA
| | - Ninian N. Lang
- BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, 126 University Place, Glasgow, United Kingdom, G12 8TA
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28
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Demy DL, Carrère M, Noche R, Tauzin M, Le Bris M, Baek C, Leshchiner I, Goessling W, Herbomel P. The cationic amino acid exporter Slc7a7 is induced and vital in zebrafish tissue macrophages with sustained efferocytic activity. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:jcs249037. [PMID: 32973110 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.249037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Most tissues harbor a substantial population of resident macrophages. Here, we elucidate a functional link between the Slc7a7 cationic amino acid transporter and tissue macrophages. We identified a mutant zebrafish devoid of microglia due to a mutation in the slc7a7 gene. We found that in Slc7a7-deficient larvae, macrophages do enter the retina and brain to become microglia, but then die during the developmental wave of neuronal apoptosis, which triggers intense efferocytic work from them. A similar macrophage demise occurs in other tissues, at stages where macrophages have to engulf many cell corpses, whether due to developmental or experimentally triggered cell death. We found that Slc7a7 is the main cationic amino acid transporter expressed in macrophages of zebrafish larvae, and that its expression is induced in tissue macrophages within 1-2 h upon efferocytosis. Our data indicate that Slc7a7 is vital not only for microglia but also for any steadily efferocytic tissue macrophages, and that slc7a7 gene induction is one of the adaptive responses that allow them to cope with the catabolism of numerous dead cells without compromising their own viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Lou Demy
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, 75015 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Mireille Carrère
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, 75015 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Ramil Noche
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, 75015 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Muriel Tauzin
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, 75015 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Marion Le Bris
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, 75015 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Chooyoung Baek
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, 75015 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | | | - Wolfram Goessling
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Philippe Herbomel
- Institut Pasteur, Department of Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, 75015 Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
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29
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Christoffels V, Jensen B. Cardiac Morphogenesis: Specification of the Four-Chambered Heart. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2020; 12:cshperspect.a037143. [PMID: 31932321 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a037143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Early heart morphogenesis involves a process in which embryonic precursor cells are instructed to form a cyclic contracting muscle tube connected to blood vessels, pumping fluid. Subsequently, the heart becomes structurally complex and its size increases several orders of magnitude to functionally keep up with the demands of the growing organism. Programmed transcriptional regulatory networks control the early steps of cardiac development. However, already during the early stages of its assembly, the heart tube starts to produce electrochemical potentials, contractions, and flow, which are transduced into signals that feed back into the process of morphogenesis itself. Heart morphogenesis, thus, involves the interplay between progressively changing genetic networks, function, and shape. Morphogenesis is evolutionarily conserved, but species-specific differences occur and in mouse, for instance, distinct phases of development become overlapping and compounded in an extremely fast gestation. Here, we review the early morphogenesis of the chambered heart that maintains a circulation supporting development of an organism rapidly growing in size and requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Christoffels
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1105AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Bjarke Jensen
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1105AZ, The Netherlands
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30
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Tsata V, Beis D. In Full Force. Mechanotransduction and Morphogenesis during Homeostasis and Tissue Regeneration. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2020; 7:jcdd7040040. [PMID: 33019569 PMCID: PMC7711708 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd7040040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The interactions of form and function have been the focus of numerous studies in the context of development and more recently regeneration. Our understanding on how cells, tissues and organs sense and interpret external cues, such as mechanical forces, is becoming deeper as novel techniques in imaging are applied and the relevant signaling pathways emerge. These cellular responses can be found from bacteria to all multicellular organisms such as plants and animals. In this review, we focus on hemodynamic flow and endothelial shear stress during cardiovascular development and regeneration, where the interactions of morphogenesis and proper function are more prominent. In addition, we address the recent literature on the role of extracellular matrix and fibrotic response during tissue repair and regeneration. Finally, we refer to examples where the integration of multi-disciplinary approaches to understand the biomechanics of cellular responses could be utilized in novel medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Tsata
- Correspondence: (V.T.); (D.B.); Tel.: +3021-0659-7439 (V.T. & D.B.)
| | - Dimitris Beis
- Correspondence: (V.T.); (D.B.); Tel.: +3021-0659-7439 (V.T. & D.B.)
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31
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Li R, Zupanic A, Talikka M, Belcastro V, Madan S, Dörpinghaus J, Berg CV, Szostak J, Martin F, Peitsch MC, Hoeng J. Systems Toxicology Approach for Testing Chemical Cardiotoxicity in Larval Zebrafish. Chem Res Toxicol 2020; 33:2550-2564. [PMID: 32638588 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.0c00095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptomic approaches can give insight into molecular mechanisms underlying chemical toxicity and are increasingly being used as part of toxicological assessments. To aid the interpretation of transcriptomic data, we have developed a systems toxicology method that relies on a computable biological network model. We created the first network model describing cardiotoxicity in zebrafish larvae-a valuable emerging model species in testing cardiotoxicity associated with drugs and chemicals. The network is based on scientific literature and represents hierarchical molecular pathways that lead from receptor activation to cardiac pathologies. To test the ability of our approach to detect cardiotoxic outcomes from transcriptomic data, we have selected three publicly available data sets that reported chemically induced heart pathologies in zebrafish larvae for five different chemicals. Network-based analysis detected cardiac perturbations for four out of five chemicals tested, for two of them using transcriptomic data collected up to 3 days before the onset of a visible phenotype. Additionally, we identified distinct molecular pathways that were activated by the different chemicals. The results demonstrate that the proposed integrational method can be used for evaluating the effects of chemicals on the zebrafish cardiac function and, together with observed cardiac apical end points, can provide a comprehensive method for connecting molecular events to organ toxicity. The computable network model is freely available and may be used to generate mechanistic hypotheses and quantifiable perturbation values from any zebrafish transcriptomic data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Li
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Eawag, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland.,PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Anze Zupanic
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Eawag, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Marja Talikka
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Vincenzo Belcastro
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Sumit Madan
- Fraunhofer Institute for Algorithms and Scientific Computing, Schloss Birlinghoven, Sankt Augustin 53754, Germany
| | - Jens Dörpinghaus
- Fraunhofer Institute for Algorithms and Scientific Computing, Schloss Birlinghoven, Sankt Augustin 53754, Germany
| | - Colette Vom Berg
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Eawag, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Justyna Szostak
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Florian Martin
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Manuel C Peitsch
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Julia Hoeng
- PMI R&D, Philip Morris Products S.A., Quai Jeanrenaud 5, CH-2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
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32
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Benslimane FM, Zakaria ZZ, Shurbaji S, Abdelrasool MKA, Al-Badr MAHI, Al Absi ESK, Yalcin HC. Cardiac function and blood flow hemodynamics assessment of zebrafish (Danio rerio) using high-speed video microscopy. Micron 2020; 136:102876. [PMID: 32512409 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2020.102876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last few decades, zebrafish (Danio rerio) were introduced as a model organism to investigate human diseases including cardiovascular and neuronal disorders. In most zebrafish investigations, cardiac function and blood flow hemodynamics need to be assessed to study the effects of the interference on the cardiovascular system. For heart function assessment, most important parameters include heart rate, cardiac output, ejection fraction, fractional area change, and fractional shortening. METHODS A 10 s high-speed video of beating heart and flowing blood within major vessels of zebrafish that are less than 5 days post fertilization (dpf) were recorded via a stereo microscope equipped with a high speed camera. The videos were analyzed using MicroZebraLab and image J software for the assessment of cardiac function. RESULTS Using the technique described here, we were able to simply yet effectively assess cardiac function and blood flow dynamics of normal zebrafish embryos. We believe that the practical method presented here will help cardiac researchers using the zebrafish as a model to examine cardiac function by using tools that could be available in their laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zain Z Zakaria
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Science, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Samar Shurbaji
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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33
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Shrestha R, Lieberth J, Tillman S, Natalizio J, Bloomekatz J. Using Zebrafish to Analyze the Genetic and Environmental Etiologies of Congenital Heart Defects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1236:189-223. [PMID: 32304074 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-2389-2_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are among the most common human birth defects. However, the etiology of a large proportion of CHDs remains undefined. Studies identifying the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie cardiac development have been critical to elucidating the origin of CHDs. Building upon this knowledge to understand the pathogenesis of CHDs requires examining how genetic or environmental stress changes normal cardiac development. Due to strong molecular conservation to humans and unique technical advantages, studies using zebrafish have elucidated both fundamental principles of cardiac development and have been used to create cardiac disease models. In this chapter we examine the unique toolset available to zebrafish researchers and how those tools are used to interrogate the genetic and environmental contributions to CHDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabina Shrestha
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | - Jaret Lieberth
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | - Savanna Tillman
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | - Joseph Natalizio
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
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34
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Haindl R, Deloria AJ, Sturtzel C, Sattmann H, Rohringer W, Fischer B, Andreana M, Unterhuber A, Schwerte T, Distel M, Drexler W, Leitgeb R, Liu M. Functional optical coherence tomography and photoacoustic microscopy imaging for zebrafish larvae. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2020; 11:2137-2151. [PMID: 32341872 PMCID: PMC7173920 DOI: 10.1364/boe.390410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
We present a dual modality functional optical coherence tomography and photoacoustic microscopy (OCT-PAM) system. The photoacoustic modality employs an akinetic optical sensor with a large imaging window. This imaging window enables direct reflection mode operation, and a seamless integration of optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a second imaging modality. Functional extensions to the OCT-PAM system include Doppler OCT (DOCT) and spectroscopic PAM (sPAM). This functional and non-invasive imaging system is applied to image zebrafish larvae, demonstrating its capability to extract both morphological and hemodynamic parameters in vivo in small animals, which are essential and critical in preclinical imaging for physiological, pathophysiological and drug response studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Haindl
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Abigail J. Deloria
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Caterina Sturtzel
- Innovative Cancer Models, St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute, Vienna, Austria
| | - Harald Sattmann
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Marco Andreana
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Angelika Unterhuber
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Martin Distel
- Innovative Cancer Models, St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Drexler
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rainer Leitgeb
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mengyang Liu
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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35
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Advanced blood flow assessment in Zebrafish via experimental digital particle image velocimetry and computational fluid dynamics modeling. Micron 2020; 130:102801. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2019.102801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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36
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Garoffolo G, Pesce M. Mechanotransduction in the Cardiovascular System: From Developmental Origins to Homeostasis and Pathology. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121607. [PMID: 31835742 PMCID: PMC6953076 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
With the term ‘mechanotransduction’, it is intended the ability of cells to sense and respond to mechanical forces by activating intracellular signal transduction pathways and the relative phenotypic adaptation. While a known role of mechanical stimuli has been acknowledged for developmental biology processes and morphogenesis in various organs, the response of cells to mechanical cues is now also emerging as a major pathophysiology determinant. Cells of the cardiovascular system are typically exposed to a variety of mechanical stimuli ranging from compression to strain and flow (shear) stress. In addition, these cells can also translate subtle changes in biophysical characteristics of the surrounding matrix, such as the stiffness, into intracellular activation cascades with consequent evolution toward pro-inflammatory/pro-fibrotic phenotypes. Since cellular mechanotransduction has a potential readout on long-lasting modifications of the chromatin, exposure of the cells to mechanically altered environments may have similar persisting consequences to those of metabolic dysfunctions or chronic inflammation. In the present review, we highlight the roles of mechanical forces on the control of cardiovascular formation during embryogenesis, and in the development and pathogenesis of the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Garoffolo
- Unità di Ingegneria Tissutale Cardiovascolare, Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Via Parea, 4, I-20138 Milan, Italy;
- PhD Program in Translational and Molecular Medicine DIMET, Università di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Maurizio Pesce
- Unità di Ingegneria Tissutale Cardiovascolare, Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Via Parea, 4, I-20138 Milan, Italy;
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37
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Villasenor A, Gauvrit S, Collins MM, Maischein HM, Stainier DYR. Hhex regulates the specification and growth of the hepatopancreatic ductal system. Dev Biol 2019; 458:228-236. [PMID: 31697936 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Significant efforts have advanced our understanding of foregut-derived organ development; however, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that underlie the formation of the hepatopancreatic ductal (HPD) system. Here, we report a role for the homeodomain transcription factor Hhex in directing HPD progenitor specification in zebrafish. Loss of Hhex function results in impaired HPD system formation. We found that Hhex specifies a distinct population of HPD progenitors that gives rise to the cystic duct, common bile duct, and extra-pancreatic duct. Since hhex is not uniquely expressed in the HPD region but is also expressed in endothelial cells and the yolk syncytial layer (YSL), we tested the role of blood vessels as well as the YSL in HPD formation. We found that blood vessels are required for HPD patterning, but not for HPD progenitor specification. In addition, we found that Hhex is required in both the endoderm and the YSL for HPD development. Our results shed light on the mechanisms directing endodermal progenitors towards the HPD fate and emphasize the tissue specific requirement of Hhex during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alethia Villasenor
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Department of Developmental Genetics, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
| | - Sébastien Gauvrit
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Department of Developmental Genetics, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Michelle M Collins
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Department of Developmental Genetics, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Hans-Martin Maischein
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Department of Developmental Genetics, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Didier Y R Stainier
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Department of Developmental Genetics, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
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38
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Gong B, Li Z, Xiao W, Li G, Ding S, Meng A, Jia S. Sec14l3 potentiates VEGFR2 signaling to regulate zebrafish vasculogenesis. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1606. [PMID: 30962435 PMCID: PMC6453981 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09604-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulates vasculogenesis by using its tyrosine kinase receptors. However, little is known about whether Sec14-like phosphatidylinositol transfer proteins (PTP) are involved in this process. Here, we show that zebrafish sec14l3, one of the family members, specifically participates in artery and vein formation via regulating angioblasts and subsequent venous progenitors’ migration during vasculogenesis. Vascular defects caused by sec14l3 depletion are partially rescued by restoration of VEGFR2 signaling at the receptor or downstream effector level. Biochemical analyses show that Sec14l3/SEC14L2 physically bind to VEGFR2 and prevent it from dephosphorylation specifically at the Y1175 site by peri-membrane tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B, therefore potentiating VEGFR2 signaling activation. Meanwhile, Sec14l3 and SEC14L2 interact with RAB5A/4A and facilitate the formation of their GTP-bound states, which might be critical for VEGFR2 endocytic trafficking. Thus, we conclude that Sec14l3 controls vasculogenesis in zebrafish via the regulation of VEGFR2 activation. The growth factor VEGF is known to regulate vasculogenesis but the downstream pathways activated are unclear. Here, the authors report that Sec14l3, a member of the PITP (phosphatidyl inositol transfer proteins) family regulates the formation of zebrafish vasculature by promoting VEGFR2 endocytic trafficking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Wanghua Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Guangyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Shihui Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Anming Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
| | - Shunji Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China.
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39
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Brown AR, Green JM, Moreman J, Gunnarsson LM, Mourabit S, Ball J, Winter MJ, Trznadel M, Correia A, Hacker C, Perry A, Wood ME, Hetheridge MJ, Currie RA, Tyler CR. Cardiovascular Effects and Molecular Mechanisms of Bisphenol A and Its Metabolite MBP in Zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:463-474. [PMID: 30520632 PMCID: PMC6333396 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b04281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The plastic monomer bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the highest production volume chemicals in the world and is frequently detected in wildlife and humans, particularly children. BPA has been associated with numerous adverse health outcomes relating to its estrogenic and other hormonal properties, but direct causal links are unclear in humans and animal models. Here we simulated measured (1×) and predicted worst-case (10× ) maximum fetal exposures for BPA, or equivalent concentrations of its metabolite MBP, using fluorescent reporter embryo-larval zebrafish, capable of quantifying Estrogen Response Element (ERE) activation throughout the body. Heart valves were primary sites for ERE activation by BPA and MBP, and transcriptomic analysis of microdissected heart tissues showed that both chemicals targeted several molecular pathways constituting biomarkers for calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), including extra-cellular matrix (ECM) alteration. ECM collagen deficiency and impact on heart valve structural integrity were confirmed by histopathology for high-level MBP exposure, and structural defects (abnormal curvature) of the atrio-ventricular valves corresponded with impaired cardiovascular function (reduced ventricular beat rate and blood flow). Our results are the first to demonstrate plausible mechanistic links between ERE activation in the heart valves by BPA's reactive metabolite MBP and the development of valvular-cardiovascular disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Ross Brown
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Jon M. Green
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - John Moreman
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Lina M. Gunnarsson
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Sulayman Mourabit
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Jonathan Ball
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Matthew J. Winter
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Maciej Trznadel
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Ana Correia
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Christian Hacker
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Alexis Perry
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Mark E. Wood
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Malcolm J. Hetheridge
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
| | - Richard A. Currie
- Jealott’s
Hill International Research Centre, Syngenta, Bracknell, Berkshire RG42
6EY, U.K.
| | - Charles R. Tyler
- Biosciences,
College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, U.K.
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40
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Hughes MC, Zimmer AM, Perry SF. Role of internal convection in respiratory gas transfer and aerobic metabolism in larval zebrafish ( Danio rerio). Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2019; 316:R255-R264. [PMID: 30601704 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00315.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Purely diffusive O2 transport typically is insufficient to sustain aerobic metabolism in most multicellular organisms. In animals that are small enough, however, a high surface-to-volume ratio may allow passive diffusion alone to supply sufficient O2 transfer. The purpose of this study was to explore the impacts of internal convection on respiratory gas transfer in a small complex organism, the larval zebrafish ( Danio rerio). Specifically, we tested the hypothesis that internal convection is required for the normal transfer of the respiratory gases O2 and CO2 and maintenance of resting aerobic metabolic rate in larvae at 4 days postfertilization (dpf). Morpholino knockdown of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or cardiac troponin T (TNNT2) proteins allowed an examination of gas transfer in two independent models lacking internal convection. With the use of a scanning micro-optrode technique to measure regional epithelial O2 fluxes ( Jo2), it was demonstrated that larvae lacking convection exhibited reduced Jo2 in regions spanning the head to the trunk. Moreover, the acute loss of internal convection caused by heart stoppage resulted in reduced rates of cutaneous Jo2, an effect that was reversed upon the restoration of internal convection. With the use of whole body respirometry, it was shown that loss of internal convection was associated with reduced resting rates of O2 consumption and CO2 excretion in larvae at 4 dpf. The results of these experiments clearly demonstrate that internal convection is required to maintain resting rates of respiratory gas transfer in larval zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm C Hughes
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario , Canada
| | - Alex M Zimmer
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario , Canada
| | - Steve F Perry
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario , Canada
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41
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Pelster B, Egg M. Hypoxia-inducible transcription factors in fish: expression, function and interconnection with the circadian clock. J Exp Biol 2018; 221:221/13/jeb163709. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.163709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The hypoxia-inducible transcription factors are key regulators for the physiological response to low oxygen availability. In vertebrates, typically three Hif-α isoforms, Hif-1α, Hif-2α and Hif-3α, are expressed, each of which, together with Hif-1β, may form a functional heterodimer under hypoxic conditions, controlling expression of hundreds of genes. A teleost-specific whole-genome duplication complicates the analysis of isoform-specific functions in fish, but recent studies suggest that the existence of paralogues of a specific isoform opens up the possibility for a subfunctionalization. In contrast to during development inside the uterus, fish eggs are freely accessible and studies analyzing Hif expression in fish embryos during development have revealed that Hif proteins are not only controlling the hypoxic response, but are also crucial for proper development and organ differentiation. Significant advances have been made in our knowledge about tissue-specific functions of Hif proteins, especially with respect to gill or gonadal tissue. The hypoxia signalling pathway is known to be tightly and mutually intertwined with the circadian clock in zebrafish and mammals. Recently, a mechanistic explanation for the hypoxia-induced dampening of the transcriptional clock was detected in zebrafish, including also metabolically induced alterations of cellular redox signalling. In turn, MAP kinase-mediated H2O2 signalling modulates the temporal expression of Hif-1α protein, similar to the redox regulation of the circadian clock itself. Once again, the zebrafish has emerged as an excellent model organism with which to explore these specific functional aspects of basic eukaryotic cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Pelster
- Institute of Zoology, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstr. 25, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Margit Egg
- Institute of Zoology, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstr. 25, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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42
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Kithcart AP, MacRae CA. Zebrafish assay development for cardiovascular disease mechanism and drug discovery. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 138:126-131. [PMID: 30518489 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Calum A MacRae
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, USA.
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43
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Souders CL, Liang X, Wang X, Ector N, Zhao YH, Martyniuk CJ. High-throughput assessment of oxidative respiration in fish embryos: Advancing adverse outcome pathways for mitochondrial dysfunction. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2018; 199:162-173. [PMID: 29631217 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2018.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a prevalent molecular event that can result in multiple adverse outcomes. Recently, a novel high throughput method to assess metabolic capacity in fish embryos following exposure to chemicals has been adapted for environmental toxicology. Assessments of oxygen consumption rates using the Seahorse XF(e) 24/96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer (Agilent Technologies) can be used to garner insight into toxicant effects at early stages of development. Here we synthesize the current state of the science using high throughput metabolic profiling in zebrafish embryos, and present considerations for those wishing to adopt high throughput methods for mitochondrial bioenergetics into their research. Chemicals that have been investigated in zebrafish using this metabolic platform include herbicides (e.g. paraquat, diquat), industrial compounds (e.g. benzo-[a]-pyrene, tributyltin), natural products (e.g. quercetin), and anti-bacterial chemicals (i.e. triclosan). Some of these chemicals inhibit mitochondrial endpoints in the μM-mM range, and reduce basal respiration, maximum respiration, and spare capacity. We present a theoretical framework for how one can use mitochondrial performance data in zebrafish to categorize chemicals of concern and prioritize mitochondrial toxicants. Noteworthy is that our studies demonstrate that there can be considerable variation in basal respiration of untreated zebrafish embryos due to clutch-specific effects as well as individual variability, and basal oxygen consumption rates (OCR) can vary on average between 100 and 300 pmol/min/embryo. We also compare OCR between chorionated and dechorionated embryos, as both models are employed to test chemicals. After 24 h, dechorionated embryos remain responsive to mitochondrial toxicants, although they show a blunted response to the uncoupling agent carbonylcyanide-4-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone (FCCP); dechorionated embryos are therefore a viable option for investigations into mitochondrial bioenergetics. We present an adverse outcome pathway framework that incorporates endpoints related to mitochondrial bioenergetics. High throughput bioenergetics assays conducted using whole embryos are expected to support adverse outcome pathways for mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Souders
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Xuefang Liang
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA; School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130117, China
| | - Naomi Ector
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Yuan H Zhao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130117, China
| | - Christopher J Martyniuk
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
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Hodgson P, Ireland J, Grunow B. Fish, the better model in human heart research? Zebrafish Heart aggregates as a 3D spontaneously cardiomyogenic in vitro model system. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 138:132-141. [PMID: 29729327 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2018.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The zebrafish (ZF) has become an essential model for biomedical, pharmacological and eco-toxicological heart research. Despite the anatomical differences between fish and human hearts, similarities in cellular structure and conservation of genes as well as pathways across vertebrates have led to an increase in the popularity of ZF as a model for human cardiac research. ZF research benefits from an entirely sequenced genome, which allows us to establish and study cardiovascular mutants to better understand cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we will discuss the importance of in vitro model systems for cardiac research and summarise results of in vitro 3D heart-like cell aggregates, consisting of myocardial tissue formed spontaneously from enzymatically digested whole embryonic ZF larvae (Zebrafish Heart Aggregate - ZFHA). We will give an overview of the similarities and differences of ZF versus human hearts and highlight why ZF complement established mammalian models (i.e. murine and large animal models) for cardiac research. At this stage, the ZFHA model system is being refined into a high-throughput (more ZFHA generated than larvae prepared) and stable in vitro test system to accomplish the same longevity of previously successful salmonid models. ZFHA have potential for the use of high-throughput-screenings of different factors like small molecules, nucleic acids, proteins and lipids which is difficult to achieve in the zebrafish in vivo screening models with lethal mutations as well as to explore ion channel disorders and to find appropriate drugs for safety screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Hodgson
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9NT, UK; Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Stott Lane, Salford M6 8HD, UK
| | - Jake Ireland
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9NT, UK; School of Chemistry, Materials Science, and Engineering, Hilmer Building, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Bianka Grunow
- University Medicine Greifswald, Institute of Physiology, Greifswalder Str. 11C, 17495 Karlsburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9NT, UK.
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Tu J, Bussmann J, Du G, Gao Y, Bouwstra JA, Kros A. Lipid bilayer-coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles carrying bovine hemoglobin towards an erythrocyte mimic. Int J Pharm 2018; 543:169-178. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Cypher AD, Fetterman B, Bagatto B. Vascular parameters continue to decrease post-exposure with simultaneous, but not individual exposure to BPA and hypoxia in zebrafish larvae. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2018; 206-207:11-16. [PMID: 29454160 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2018.02.002] [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] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
How fish respond to hypoxia, a common stressor, can be altered by simultaneous exposure to pollutants like bisphenol A (BPA), a plasticizer. BPA is cardiotoxic and interferes with the hypoxia inducible factor pathway (HIF-1α), therefore disrupting the hypoxic response. Co-exposure to hypoxia and BPA also causes severe bradycardia and reduced cardiac output in zebrafish larvae. The purpose of this work was to determine how the cardiovascular effects of co-exposure vary with BPA concentration and persist beyond exposure. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, and 100 μg/L of BPA during normoxia (>6.0 mg/L O2) and hypoxia (2.0 ± 0.5 mg/L O2) between 1 h post fertilization (hpf) and late hatching (72-96 hpf). Heart rate, cardiac output, and red blood cell (RBC) velocity were determined through video microscopy and digital motion analysis at late hatching and 10 days post fertilization (dpf), several days post exposure. In comparison to the hypoxic control, RBC velocity was 25% lower with 0.01 μg/L BPA and hypoxia at late hatching. At 10 dpf, the difference in RBC velocity between these treatments doubled, despite several days of recovery. This coincided with a 24% thinner outer diameter for caudal vein but no effect on cardiac or developmental parameters. Statistical interactions between BPA and oxygen concentration were found for arterial RBC velocity at both ages. Because the co-occurrence of both stressors is extremely common, it would be beneficial to understand how BPA and hypoxia interact to affect cardiovascular function during and after exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brian Bagatto
- The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, United States
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Chang SS, Tu S, Baek KI, Pietersen A, Liu YH, Savage VM, Hwang SPL, Hsiai TK, Roper M. Optimal occlusion uniformly partitions red blood cells fluxes within a microvascular network. PLoS Comput Biol 2017; 13:e1005892. [PMID: 29244812 PMCID: PMC5747476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1005892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In animals, gas exchange between blood and tissues occurs in narrow vessels, whose diameter is comparable to that of a red blood cell. Red blood cells must deform to squeeze through these narrow vessels, transiently blocking or occluding the vessels they pass through. Although the dynamics of vessel occlusion have been studied extensively, it remains an open question why microvessels need to be so narrow. We study occlusive dynamics within a model microvascular network: the embryonic zebrafish trunk. We show that pressure feedbacks created when red blood cells enter the finest vessels of the trunk act together to uniformly partition red blood cells through the microvasculature. Using mathematical models as well as direct observation, we show that these occlusive feedbacks are tuned throughout the trunk network to prevent the vessels closest to the heart from short-circuiting the network. Thus occlusion is linked with another open question of microvascular function: how are red blood cells delivered at the same rate to each micro-vessel? Our analysis shows that tuning of occlusive feedbacks increase the total dissipation within the network by a factor of 11, showing that uniformity of flows rather than minimization of transport costs may be prioritized by the microvascular network. Arterial trees shuttle red blood cells from the heart to billions of capillaries distributed throughout the body. These trees have long been thought to be organized to minimize transport costs. Yet red blood cells are tightly squeezed within the finest vessels, meaning that these vessels account for as much as half of the total transport costs within the arterial network. It is unclear why vessel diameters and red blood cell diameters are so closely matched in a network that is presumed to optimize transport. Here, we use mathematical modeling and direct observations of red blood cell movements in embryonic zebrafish to show that occlusive feedbacks—the pressure feedbacks that alter the flows into a vessel when it is nearly blocked by a red blood cell—can optimally distribute red blood cells through microvessels. In addition to revealing an adaptive function for the matching of vessel and red blood cell diameters, this work shows that uniformity of red blood cell fluxes can be a unifying principle for understanding the elegant hydraulic organization of microvascular networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyr-Shea Chang
- Department of Mathematics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Shenyinying Tu
- Department of Mathematics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Kyung In Baek
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Andrew Pietersen
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Yu-Hsiu Liu
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Van M. Savage
- Department of Biomathematics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America
| | - Sheng-Ping L. Hwang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Tzung K. Hsiai
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Marcus Roper
- Department of Mathematics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Biomathematics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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Urner S, Kelly-Goss M, Peirce SM, Lammert E. Mechanotransduction in Blood and Lymphatic Vascular Development and Disease. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2017; 81:155-208. [PMID: 29310798 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2017.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The blood and lymphatic vasculatures are hierarchical networks of vessels, which constantly transport fluids and, therefore, are exposed to a variety of mechanical forces. Considering the role of mechanotransduction is key for fully understanding how these vascular systems develop, function, and how vascular pathologies evolve. During embryonic development, for example, initiation of blood flow is essential for early vascular remodeling, and increased interstitial fluid pressure as well as initiation of lymph flow is needed for proper development and maturation of the lymphatic vasculature. In this review, we introduce specific mechanical forces that affect both the blood and lymphatic vasculatures, including longitudinal and circumferential stretch, as well as shear stress. In addition, we provide an overview of the role of mechanotransduction during atherosclerosis and secondary lymphedema, which both trigger tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Urner
- Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Molly Kelly-Goss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Shayn M Peirce
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Eckhard Lammert
- Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute for Beta Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Romano SN, Edwards HE, Souder JP, Ryan KJ, Cui X, Gorelick DA. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor regulates embryonic heart rate in zebrafish. PLoS Genet 2017; 13:e1007069. [PMID: 29065151 PMCID: PMC5669493 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogens act by binding to estrogen receptors alpha and beta (ERα, ERβ), ligand-dependent transcription factors that play crucial roles in sex differentiation, tumor growth and cardiovascular physiology. Estrogens also activate the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), however the function of GPER in vivo is less well understood. Here we find that GPER is required for normal heart rate in zebrafish embryos. Acute exposure to estrogens increased heart rate in wildtype and in ERα and ERβ mutant embryos but not in GPER mutants. GPER mutant embryos exhibited reduced basal heart rate, while heart rate was normal in ERα and ERβ mutants. We detected gper transcript in discrete regions of the brain and pituitary but not in the heart, suggesting that GPER acts centrally to regulate heart rate. In the pituitary, we observed gper expression in cells that regulate levels of thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3), a hormone known to increase heart rate. Compared to wild type, GPER mutants had reduced levels of T3 and estrogens, suggesting pituitary abnormalities. Exposure to exogenous T3, but not estradiol, rescued the reduced heart rate phenotype in gper mutant embryos, demonstrating that T3 acts downstream of GPER to regulate heart rate. Using genetic and mass spectrometry approaches, we find that GPER regulates maternal estrogen levels, which are required for normal embryonic heart rate. Our results demonstrate that estradiol plays a previously unappreciated role in the acute modulation of heart rate during zebrafish embryonic development and suggest that GPER regulates embryonic heart rate by altering maternal estrogen levels and embryonic T3 levels. Estrogen hormones are important for the formation and function of the nervous, reproductive and cardiovascular systems. Here we report that acute exposure to estrogens increases heart rate, a previously unappreciated function of estrogens. Using zebrafish with mutations in genes that respond to estrogens, we found that heart rate is regulated not by the typical molecules that respond to estrogens–the nuclear estrogen receptors–but rather by a different molecule, the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. We also show that estrogens increase heart rate by increasing levels of thyroid hormone. Our results reveal a new function for the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor and a new connection between estrogens and thyroid hormone. Environmental compounds that mimic estrogens can be harmful because they can influence gonad function. Our results suggest that endocrine disrupting compounds may also influence cardiac function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N. Romano
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Hailey E. Edwards
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Jaclyn Paige Souder
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Kevin J. Ryan
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Xiangqin Cui
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Daniel A. Gorelick
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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50
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Abstract
Animal models of cancer have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the biology of tumor initiation and progression, in studying gene function and in performing preclinical studies aimed at testing novel therapies. Several animal models of the MEN1 syndrome have been generated in different organisms by introducing loss-of-function mutations in the orthologues of the human MEN1 gene. In this review, we will discuss MEN1 and MEN1-like models in Drosophila, mice and rats. These model systems with their specific advantages and limitations have contributed to elucidate the function of Menin in tumorigenesis, which turned out to be remarkably conserved from flies to mammals, as well as the biology of the disease. Mouse models of MEN1 closely resemble the human disease in terms of tumor spectrum and associated hormonal changes, although individual tumor frequencies are variable. Rats affected by the MENX (MEN1-like) syndrome share some features with MEN1 patients albeit they bear a germline mutation in Cdkn1b (p27) and not in Men1 Both Men1-knockout mice and MENX rats have been exploited for therapy-response studies testing novel drugs for efficacy against neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and have provided promising leads for novel therapies. In addition to presenting well-established models of MEN1, we also discuss potential models which, if implemented, might broaden even further our knowledge of neuroendocrine tumorigenesis. In the future, patient-derived xenografts in zebrafish or mice might allow us to expand the tool-box currently available for preclinical studies of MEN1-associated tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermine Mohr
- Institute for Diabetes and CancerHelmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Natalia S Pellegata
- Institute for Diabetes and CancerHelmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
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