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Virdi JK, Pethe P. Assessment of human embryonic stem cells differentiation into definitive endoderm lineage on the soft substrates. Cell Biol Int 2024. [PMID: 38419492 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12151] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) hold enormous potential for treating multiple diseases owing to their ability to self-renew and differentiate into any cell type. Albeit possessing such promising potential, controlling their differentiation into a desired cell type continues to be a challenge. Recent studies suggest that PSCs respond to different substrate stiffness and, therefore, can differentiate towards some lineages via Hippo pathway. Human PSCs can also differentiate and self-organize into functional cells, such as organoids. Traditionally, human PSCs are differentiated on stiff plastic or glass plates towards definitive endoderm and then into functional pancreatic progenitor cells in the presence of soluble growth factors. Thus, whether stiffness plays any role in differentiation towards definitive endoderm from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) remains unclear. Our study found that the directed differentiation of human embryonic stem cells towards endodermal lineage on the varying stiffness did not differ from the differentiation on stiff plastic dishes. We also observed no statistical difference between the expression of yes-associated protein (YAP) and phosphorylated YAP. Furthermore, we demonstrate that lysophosphatidic acid, a YAP activator, enhanced definitive endoderm formation, whereas verteporfin, a YAP inhibitor, did not have the significant effect on the differentiation. In summary, our results suggest that human embryonic stem cells may not differentiate in response to changes in stiffness, and that such cues may not have as significant impact on the level of YAP. Our findings indicate that more research is needed to understand the direct relationship between biophysical forces and hPSCs differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmeet Kaur Virdi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed-to-be) University, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Prasad Pethe
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research, Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed) University, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Xie T, Huang Q, Huang Q, Huang Y, Liu S, Zeng H, Liu J. Dysregulated lncRNAs regulate human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell differentiation into insulin-producing cells by forming a regulatory network with mRNAs. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:22. [PMID: 38273351 PMCID: PMC10809572 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03572-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In recent years, cell therapy has emerged as a new research direction in the treatment of diabetes. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation necessary to form such treatment have not been clarified. METHODS In this study, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUC-MSCs) isolated from newborns were progressively induced into insulin-producing cells (IPCs) using small molecules. HUC-MSC (S0) and four induced stage (S1-S4) samples were prepared. We then performed transcriptome sequencing experiments to obtain the dynamic expression profiles of both mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). RESULTS We found that the number of differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs trended downwards during differentiation. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis showed that the target genes of differentially expressed lncRNAs were associated with translation, cell adhesion, and cell connection. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that the NF-KB signalling pathway, MAPK signalling pathway, HIPPO signalling pathway, PI3K-Akt signalling pathway, and p53 signalling pathway were enriched in these differentially expressed lncRNA-targeting genes. We also found that the coexpression of the lncRNA CTBP1-AS2 with PROX1 and the lncRNAs AC009014.3 and GS1-72M22.1 with JARID2 mRNA was related to the development of pancreatic beta cells. Moreover, the coexpression of the lncRNAs: XLOC_ 050969, LINC00883, XLOC_050981, XLOC_050925, MAP3K14- AS1, RP11-148K1.12, and CTD2020K17.3 with p53, regulated insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells. CONCLUSION In this study, HUC-MSCs combined with small molecule compounds were successfully induced into IPCs. Differentially expressed lncRNAs may regulate the insulin secretion of pancreatic beta cells by regulating multiple signalling pathways. The lncRNAs AC009014.3, Gs1-72m21.1, and CTBP1-AS2 may be involved in the development of pancreatic beta cells, and the lncRNAs: XLOC_050969, LINC00883, XLOC_050981, XLOC_050925, MAP3K14-AS1, RP11-148K1.12, and CTD2020K17.3 may be involved in regulating the insulin secretion of pancreatic beta cells, thus providing a lncRNA catalogue for future research regarding the mechanism of the transdifferentiation of HUC-MSCs into IPCs. It also provides a new theoretical basis for the transplantation of insulin-producing cells into diabetic patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqin Xie
- Department of Endocrinology Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang of Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Qiming Huang
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translation Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang of Jiangxi, China
| | - Qiulan Huang
- Department of Endocrinology Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang of Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Yanting Huang
- Department of Endocrinology Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang of Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Department of Endocrinology Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang of Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Haixia Zeng
- Department of Endocrinology Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang of Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jianping Liu
- Department of Endocrinology Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Minde Road, Nanchang of Jiangxi, 330006, China.
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Dumasia NP, Khanna AP, Pethe PS. Retinoic acid signaling is critical for generation of pancreatic progenitors from human embryonic stem cells. Growth Factors 2023; 41:8-19. [PMID: 36373834 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2022.2144284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) is essential for gut endoderm development and has been extensively used for in vitro pancreatic differentiation from human pluripotent stem cells. However, the gene regulatory network triggered by RA signaling remains poorly addressed. Also, whether RA signals control histone modifiers such as the Polycomb group proteins during pancreatic specification remains to be explored. Here, we assess the role of RA on pancreas-specific genes during the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). We demonstrate that RA helps cells exit the definitive endoderm stage and proceed toward a pancreatic fate. Inhibition of the RA pathway using the pharmacological inhibitor LE135 impairs the induction of pancreatic endoderm (PE) markers FOXA2, HNF4α, HNF1β, HHEX, and PDX1. We further determine that RA signals alter the expression of epigenetic-associated genes BMI1 and RING1B in the hESC-derived pancreatic progenitors. These findings broaden our understanding of the mechanisms that drive early PE specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloufer P Dumasia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, India
| | - Aparna P Khanna
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, India
- Centre for Computational Biology & Translational Research, Amity Institute of Biotechnology (AIB), Amity University, Mumbai, India
| | - Prasad S Pethe
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis International University, Lavale, Pune, India
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4
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Dumasia NP, Khanna AP, Pethe PS. Sonic hedgehog signals hinder the transcriptional network necessary for pancreatic endoderm formation from human embryonic stem cells. Genes Cells 2021; 26:282-297. [PMID: 33599359 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Hedgehog morphogens govern multiple aspects of pancreas organogenesis and functioning with diverse outcomes across species. Although most current differentiation protocols repress Sonic hedgehog (SHH) signals during in vitro endocrine specification, the role and mechanisms through which the SHH pathway antagonizes pancreas development during in vitro human embryonic stem (hES) cell differentiation remain unclear. We modulated SHH signaling at transitory stages of hES cell-derived pancreatic progenitors and analyzed the effect on cellular fate decisions. We identify the Hedgehog pathway as a negative regulator of pancreatic endoderm formation through up-regulation of a set of pancreatobiliary markers required for ductal specification, including SOX17, FOXA2, HNF1β, HNF6, PDX1, and SOX9. Surprisingly, active Hedgehog signals impeded a group of pancreatic epithelium markers, including HNF4α, HHEX, PAX6, and PTF1α. To understand how SHH signals repress the transcription of these specific markers, we analyzed Polycomb group proteins. We found differential expression of Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 subunit, BMI1 upon Shh pathway modulation in the pancreatic progenitors. Ectopic activation of Sonic hedgehog results in over-expression of BMI1 and its associated repressive histone mark, H2AK119Ub1, in the multipotent progenitors. Our data suggest that Sonic hedgehog restricts the pancreatic differentiation program by limiting progenitor cells acquiring pancreatic epithelial fates and instead promotes pancreatobiliary differentiation. We further provide mechanistic cues of an association between Hedgehog signaling and epigenetic silencers during pancreatic lineage decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloufer P Dumasia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, India
| | - Aparna P Khanna
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, India
- Centre for Computational Biology & Translational Research, Amity Institute of Biotechnology (AIB), Amity University, Mumbai, India
| | - Prasad S Pethe
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis International University, Pune, India
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Pethe PS, Dumasia NP, Bhartiya D. Effect of Sonic hedgehog pathway inhibition on PDX1 expression during pancreatic differentiation of human embryonic stem cells. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:1615-1623. [PMID: 33484392 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06147-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Differentiation processes for generating pancreatic progenitors from pluripotent stem cells inhibit Sonic hedgehog signaling through synthetic antagonists. However, the effect of sonic hedgehog inhibition in differentiating human embryonic stem cells remains unclear. The primary aim of this study was to understand the effect of Sonic hedgehog inhibition on key pancreas-specific transcription factors during differentiation of human embryonic stem cells towards a pancreatic lineage. We differentiated human embryonic stem (ES) cells towards the pancreatic progenitor stage. To analyze the effect of Sonic hedgehog inhibition, we differentiated human ES cells in the presence or absence of pathway antagonist, cyclopamine, using the same concentration (0.25 µM) as reported earlier. Changes in gene expression between the groups were examined by quantitative reverse-transcription PCR and immunoblot analyses. Surprisingly, we found that expression of key transcription factors, PDX1 and SOX9, was not majorly affected by inhibition of Sonic hedgehog signals. Effects of inhibiting Hedgehog signals on pancreas-specific markers in differentiating human embryonic stem cells were analyzed in the study. We identified that the expression of pancreas-specific PDX1 and SOX9 was not affected by the Sonic hedgehog pathway in pancreatic progenitor populations from human ES cells. Thus, the restrictive nature of Hedgehog signaling during the early stages of pancreas formation could be facilitated through a transcriptional network beyond PDX1 and SOX9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad S Pethe
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis International University (SIU), Lavale, Mulshi, Pune, 412 115, India.
| | - Niloufer P Dumasia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, 400 056, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
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van Wijnen AJ, Bagheri L, Badreldin AA, Larson AN, Dudakovic A, Thaler R, Paradise CR, Wu Z. Biological functions of chromobox (CBX) proteins in stem cell self-renewal, lineage-commitment, cancer and development. Bone 2021; 143:115659. [PMID: 32979540 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2020.115659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulatory proteins support mammalian development, cancer, aging and tissue repair by controlling many cellular processes including stem cell self-renewal, lineage-commitment and senescence in both skeletal and non-skeletal tissues. We review here our knowledge of epigenetic regulatory protein complexes that support the formation of inaccessible heterochromatin and suppress expression of cell and tissue-type specific biomarkers during development. Maintenance and formation of heterochromatin critically depends on epigenetic regulators that recognize histone 3 lysine trimethylation at residues K9 and K27 (respectively, H3K9me3 and H3K27me3), which represent transcriptionally suppressive epigenetic marks. Three chromobox proteins (i.e., CBX1, CBX3 or CBX5) associated with the heterochromatin protein 1 (HP1) complex are methyl readers that interpret H3K9me3 marks which are mediated by H3K9 methyltransferases (i.e., SUV39H1 or SUV39H2). Other chromobox proteins (i.e., CBX2, CBX4, CBX6, CBX7 and CBX8) recognize H3K27me3, which is deposited by Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2; a complex containing SUZ12, EED, RBAP46/48 and the methyl transferases EZH1 or EZH2). This second set of CBX proteins resides in PRC1, which has many subunits including other polycomb group factors (PCGF1, PCGF2, PCGF3, PCGF4, PCGF5, PCGF6), human polyhomeotic homologs (HPH1, HPH2, HPH3) and E3-ubiquitin ligases (RING1 or RING2). The latter enzymes catalyze the subsequent mono-ubiquitination of lysine 119 in H2A (H2AK119ub). We discuss biological, cellular and molecular functions of CBX proteins and their physiological and pathological activities in non-skeletal cells and tissues in anticipation of new discoveries on novel roles for CBX proteins in bone formation and skeletal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre J van Wijnen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America; Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America.
| | - Leila Bagheri
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America.
| | - Amr A Badreldin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America.
| | - A Noelle Larson
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America.
| | - Amel Dudakovic
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America; Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America.
| | - Roman Thaler
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America.
| | - Christopher R Paradise
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America; Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Zhong Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
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Dumasia NP, Pethe PS. Pancreas development and the Polycomb group protein complexes. Mech Dev 2020; 164:103647. [PMID: 32991980 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2020.103647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The dual nature of pancreatic tissue permits both endocrine and exocrine functions. Enzymatic secretions by the exocrine pancreas help digestive processes while the pancreatic hormones regulate glucose homeostasis and energy metabolism. Pancreas organogenesis is defined by a conserved array of signaling pathways that act on common gut progenitors to bring about the generation of diverse cell types. Multiple cellular processes characterize development of the mature organ. These processes are mediated by signaling pathways that regulate lineage-specific transcription factors and chromatin modifications guiding long-term gene expression programs. The chromatin landscape is altered chiefly by DNA or histone modifications, chromatin remodelers, and non-coding RNAs. Amongst histone modifiers, several studies have identified Polycomb group (PcG) proteins as crucial determinants mediating transcriptional repression of genes involved in developmental processes. Although PcG-mediated chromatin modifications define cellular transitions and influence cell identity of multipotent progenitors, much remains to be understood regarding coordination between extracellular signals and their impact on Polycomb functions during the pancreas lineage progression. In this review, we discuss interactions between sequence-specific DNA binding proteins and chromatin regulators underlying pancreas development and insulin producing β-cells, with particular focus on Polycomb group proteins. Understanding such basic molecular mechanisms would improve current strategies for stem cell-based differentiation while also help elucidate the pathogenesis of several pancreas-related maladies, including diabetes and pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloufer P Dumasia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (deemed to-be) University, Mumbai 400 056, India
| | - Prasad S Pethe
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis International University, Lavale, Pune 412 115, India.
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8
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Xu F, Liu J, Na L, Chen L. Roles of Epigenetic Modifications in the Differentiation and Function of Pancreatic β-Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:748. [PMID: 32984307 PMCID: PMC7484512 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes, a metabolic disease with multiple causes characterized by high blood sugar, has become a public health problem. Hyperglycaemia is caused by deficiencies in insulin secretion, impairment of insulin function, or both. The insulin secreted by pancreatic β cells is the only hormone in the body that lowers blood glucose levels and plays vital roles in maintaining glucose homeostasis. Therefore, investigation of the molecular mechanisms of pancreatic β cell differentiation and function is necessary to elucidate the processes involved in the onset of diabetes. Although numerous studies have shown that transcriptional regulation is essential for the differentiation and function of pancreatic β cells, increasing evidence indicates that epigenetic mechanisms participate in controlling the fate and regulation of these cells. Epigenetics involves heritable alterations in gene expression caused by DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA activity that does not result in DNA nucleotide sequence alterations. Recent research has revealed that a variety of epigenetic modifications play an important role in the development of diabetes. Here, we review the mechanisms by which epigenetic regulation affects β cell differentiation and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Xu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Inspection and Quarantine, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixin Na
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Department of Inspection and Quarantine, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Linjun Chen
- Department of Inspection and Quarantine, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
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Desai D, Khanna A, Pethe P. Inhibition of RING1B alters lineage specificity in human embryonic stem cells. Cell Biol Int 2020; 44:1299-1311. [PMID: 32068319 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are histone modifiers which are known to perform transcriptional repression and have been shown to be critical during murine embryonic development. PcGs are broadly characterized into polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) and 2 and (PRC2). RING1B, core catalytic unit of PRC1 performs H2AK119 monoubiquitination leading to transcriptional repression. We used human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line to study the fate of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) under inhibition of RING1B, as its role in human development is still to be completely explored. Embryoid bodies (EBs) were generated to differentiate hESCs using hanging drop method. PRT4165 (synthetic RING1B catalytic activity inhibitor) was added to undifferentiated and differentiated cells for 24 h. When we inhibited RING1B in undifferentiated cells, OCT4 levels remained unchanged indicating RING1B does not regulate pluripotency. The drug when added to differentiated cells led to decrease in the levels of RING1B, BMI1, and H2AK119ub1. Interestingly, we also report that the differentiated cells show an increased expression of neuroectodermal markers: SOX1 and PAX6 as well as expression of other neuroectodermal markers such as TUJ1, FOXG1, and NCAM. However, there was reduction in expression of endodermal (SOX17 and FOXA2) mesodermal marker BRACHYURY and TBX5 in treated EBs compared with control EBs. In summary, alteration of RING1B catalytic activity in hESCs during differentiation promotes neuroectodermal differentiation thus, we demonstrate critical role of RING1B in regulating neural differentiation. The strategy of inhibiting RING1B could be used to direct PSCs towards early neuronal fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Desai
- Department of Biological Sciences, NMIMS Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, 400056, India
| | - Aparna Khanna
- Department of Biological Sciences, NMIMS Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (deemed to-be) University, Mumbai, 400056, India
| | - Prasad Pethe
- Symbiosis Centre for Stem Cell Research (SCSCR), Symbiosis International University, Pune, 412115, India
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Bhartiya D. Shifting gears from embryonic to very small embryonic-like stem cells for regenerative medicine. Indian J Med Res 2018; 146:15-21. [PMID: 29168456 PMCID: PMC5719603 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_1485_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, Maharashtra, India
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Pursani V, Kapoor S, Metkari SM, Nair P, Bhartiya D. Evaluating KIND1 human embryonic stem cell-derived pancreatic progenitors to ameliorate streptozotocin-induced diabetes in mice. Indian J Med Res 2017; 146:244-254. [PMID: 29265026 PMCID: PMC5761035 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_210_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & objectives: Diabetes is a global disease burden. Various stem cell types are being explored to serve as an alternative source of islets. This study was conducted to evaluate the ability of in-house developed human embryonic stem (hES) cells-derived pancreatic progenitors to ameliorate diabetic symptoms in mice. Methods: Pancreatic progenitors were packed in macro-capsules and transplanted into six male Swiss mice and four mice were taken as controls. Thirty days post-transplantation, diabetes was induced by streptozotocin treatment. Mice were then followed up for >100 days and body weight and blood glucose levels were regularly monitored. Results: Control mice lost weight, maintained high glucose levels and did not survive beyond 40 days, whereas transplanted group maintained body weight and four of the six mice had lowered blood glucose levels. About five-fold increase was observed in human C-peptide levels in the recipients of progenitor transplants as compared to diabetic control. Interpretation & conclusions: The beneficial effect of transplanted cells was not long-lasting. Further studies are required to critically evaluate and compare the potential of endogenous pluripotent stem cells and hES cells-derived progenitors before moving from bench to the bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Pursani
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Sona Kapoor
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - S M Metkari
- Department of Experimental Animal Facility, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Prabha Nair
- Division of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration Technologies, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
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Pursani V, Pethe P, Bashir M, Sampath P, Tanavde V, Bhartiya D. Genetic and Epigenetic Profiling Reveals EZH2-mediated Down Regulation of OCT-4 Involves NR2F2 during Cardiac Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13051. [PMID: 29026152 PMCID: PMC5638931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13442-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic (hES) stem cells are widely used as an in vitro model to understand global genetic and epigenetic changes that occur during early embryonic development. In-house derived hES cells (KIND1) were subjected to directed differentiation into cardiovascular progenitors (D12) and beating cardiomyocytes (D20). Transcriptome profiling of undifferentiated (D0) and differentiated (D12 and 20) cells was undertaken by microarray analysis. ChIP and sequential ChIP were employed to study role of transcription factor NR2F2 during hES cells differentiation. Microarray profiling showed that an alteration of about 1400 and 1900 transcripts occurred on D12 and D20 respectively compared to D0 whereas only 19 genes were altered between D12 and D20. This was found associated with corresponding expression pattern of chromatin remodelers, histone modifiers, miRNAs and lncRNAs marking the formation of progenitors and cardiomyocytes on D12 and D20 respectively. ChIP sequencing and sequential ChIP revealed the binding of NR2F2 with polycomb group member EZH2 and pluripotent factor OCT4 indicating its crucial involvement in cardiac differentiation. The study provides a detailed insight into genetic and epigenetic changes associated with hES cells differentiation into cardiac cells and a role for NR2F2 is deciphered for the first time to down-regulate OCT-4 via EZH2 during cardiac differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Pursani
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Prasad Pethe
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, 400012, India
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS University, Mumbai, 400056, India
| | - Mohsin Bashir
- Institute of Medical Biology, Agency for Science Technology & Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138648, Singapore
| | - Prabha Sampath
- Institute of Medical Biology, Agency for Science Technology & Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138648, Singapore
| | - Vivek Tanavde
- Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science Technology & Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138671, Singapore
- Division of Biological & Life Sciences, School of Arts & Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Ahmedabad, 380009, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, 400012, India.
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Bhartiya D. Stem cells to replace or regenerate the diabetic pancreas: Huge potential & existing hurdles. Indian J Med Res 2017; 143:267-74. [PMID: 27241638 PMCID: PMC4892071 DOI: 10.4103/0971-5916.182615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Various stem cell sources are being explored to treat diabetes since the proof-of-concept for cell therapy was laid down by transplanting cadaveric islets as a part of Edmonton protocol in 2000. Human embryonic stem (hES) cells derived pancreatic progenitors have got US-FDA approval to be used in clinical trials to treat type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). However, these progenitors more closely resemble their foetal counterparts and thus whether they will provide long-term regeneration of adult human pancreas remains to be demonstrated. In addition to lifestyle changes and administration of insulin sensitizers, regeneration of islets from endogenous pancreatic stem cells may benefit T2DM patients. The true identity of pancreatic stem cells, whether these exist or not, whether regeneration involves reduplication of existing islets or ductal epithelial cells transdifferentiate, remains a highly controversial area. We have recently demonstrated that a novel population of very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) is involved during regeneration of adult mouse pancreas after partial-pancreatectomy. VSELs (pluripotent stem cells in adult organs) should be appreciated as an alternative for regenerative medicine as these are autologous (thus immune rejection issues do not exist) with no associated risk of teratoma formation. T2DM is a result of VSELs dysfunction with age and uncontrolled proliferation of VSELs possibly results in pancreatic cancer. Extensive brainstorming and financial support are required to exploit the potential of endogenous VSELs to regenerate the pancreas in a patient with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR), Mumbai, India
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Wang L, Xu X, Cao Y, Li Z, Cheng H, Zhu G, Duan F, Na J, Han JDJ, Chen YG. Activin/Smad2-induced Histone H3 Lys-27 Trimethylation (H3K27me3) Reduction Is Crucial to Initiate Mesendoderm Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells. J Biol Chem 2016; 292:1339-1350. [PMID: 27965357 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.766949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into mesendoderm (ME) is directed by extrinsic signals and intrinsic epigenetic modifications. However, the dynamics of these epigenetic modifications and the mechanisms by which extrinsic signals regulate the epigenetic modifications during the initiation of ME differentiation remain elusive. In this study, we report that levels of histone H3 Lys-27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) decrease during ME initiation, which is essential for subsequent differentiation induced by the combined effects of activin and Wnt signaling. Furthermore, we demonstrate that activin mediates the H3K27me3 decrease via the Smad2-mediated reduction of EZH2 protein level. Our results suggest a two-step process of ME initiation: first, epigenetic priming via removal of H3K27me3 marks and, second, transcription activation. Our findings demonstrate a critical role of H3K27me3 priming and a direct interaction between extrinsic signals and epigenetic modifications during ME initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- From the State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xuanhao Xu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yaqiang Cao
- the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Max Planck Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yue Yang Road, Shanghai 200031, China, and
| | - Zhongwei Li
- From the State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Max Planck Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yue Yang Road, Shanghai 200031, China, and
| | - Gaoyang Zhu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Fuyu Duan
- the School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jie Na
- the School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jing-Dong J Han
- the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Max Planck Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yue Yang Road, Shanghai 200031, China, and
| | - Ye-Guang Chen
- From the State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China,
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15
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Nainar S, Feng C, Spitale RC. Chemical Tools for Dissecting the Role of lncRNAs in Epigenetic Regulation. ACS Chem Biol 2016; 11:2091-100. [PMID: 27267401 PMCID: PMC5068361 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.6b00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Proper control and maintenance of gene expression is critical for cellular identity and maintenance. Transcription of RNA from the genome is intimately controlled by post-translational chemical modification of histone tails and DNA. Recent studies have demonstrated that chromatin-remodeling complexes seek out their target genomic loci through the help of noncoding RNA molecules. Within this Review, we will outline how the use of biochemical techniques has shed light on the mechanisms employed by RNA to guide these complexes and therefore control gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nainar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine. Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Chao Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine. Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Robert C. Spitale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine. Irvine, California 92697, United States
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16
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Campbell SA, Hoffman BG. Chromatin Regulators in Pancreas Development and Diabetes. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2016; 27:142-152. [PMID: 26783078 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The chromatin landscape of a cell is dynamic and can be altered by chromatin regulators that control nucleosome placement and DNA or histone modifications. Together with transcription factors, these complexes help dictate the transcriptional output of a cell and, thus, balance cell proliferation and differentiation while restricting tissue-specific gene expression. In this review, we describe current research on chromatin regulators and their roles in pancreas development and the maintenance of mature β cell function, which, once elucidated, will help us better understand how β cell differentiation occurs and is maintained. These studies have so far implicated proteins from several complexes that regulate DNA methylation, nucleosome remodeling, and histone acetylation and methylation that could become promising targets for diabetes therapy and stem cell differentiation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cell Differentiation
- Cell Proliferation
- Chromatin Assembly and Disassembly
- Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone/genetics
- Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/pathology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/physiopathology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/pathology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/physiopathology
- Epigenesis, Genetic
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Histones/genetics
- Histones/metabolism
- Humans
- Insulin-Secreting Cells/cytology
- Insulin-Secreting Cells/metabolism
- Insulin-Secreting Cells/pathology
- Islets of Langerhans/cytology
- Islets of Langerhans/growth & development
- Islets of Langerhans/metabolism
- Islets of Langerhans/pathology
- Models, Biological
- Nucleosomes/metabolism
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Campbell
- Child and Family Research Institute, British Columbia Children's Hospital and Sunny Hill Health Centre, 950 W28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Brad G Hoffman
- Child and Family Research Institute, British Columbia Children's Hospital and Sunny Hill Health Centre, 950 W28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4E3, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR), Mumbai 400 012, Maharashtra, India
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18
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Pethe P, Pursani V, Bhartiya D. Lineage specific expression of Polycomb Group Proteins in human embryonic stem cells in vitro. Cell Biol Int 2015; 39:600-10. [PMID: 25572667 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Human embryonic (hES) stem cells are an excellent model to study lineage specification and differentiation into various cell types. Differentiation necessitates repression of specific genes not required for a particular lineage. Polycomb Group (PcG) proteins are key histone modifiers, whose primary function is gene repression. PcG proteins form complexes called Polycomb Repressive Complexes (PRCs), which catalyze histone modifications such as H2AK119ub1, H3K27me3, and H3K9me3. PcG proteins play a crucial role during differentiation of stem cells. The expression of PcG transcripts during differentiation of hES cells into endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm lineage is yet to be shown. In-house derived hES cell line KIND1 was differentiated into endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm lineages; followed by characterization using RT-PCR for HNF4A, CDX2, MEF2C, TBX5, SOX1, and MAP2. qRT-PCR and western blotting was performed to compare expression of PcG transcripts and proteins across all the three lineages. We observed that cells differentiated into endoderm showed upregulation of RING1B, BMI1, EZH2, and EED transcripts. Mesoderm differentiation was characterized by significant downregulation of all PcG transcripts during later stages. BMI1 and RING1B were upregulated while EZH2, SUZ12, and EED remained low during ectoderm differentiation. Western blotting also showed distinct expression of BMI1 and EZH2 during differentiation into three germ layers. Our study shows that hES cells differentiating into endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm lineages show distinct PcG expression profile at transcript and protein level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad Pethe
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (NIRRH), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
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