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Hoang T, Cho S, Choi JY, Kang D, Shin A. Genome-Wide Interaction Study of Dietary Intake and Colorectal Cancer Risk in the UK Biobank. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240465. [PMID: 38411962 PMCID: PMC10900970 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Candidate gene analysis approaches have shown that colorectal cancer (CRC) risk attributable to diet may differ according to genotype. A genome-wide approach further allows for the exploration of underlying pathways for associations between diet and CRC risk across the genome. Objectives To identify genetic variants that modify diet-CRC associations and to further explore the underlying pathways in the cause of CRC. Design, Setting, and Participants This nested case-control study used data on White British participants from the prospective cohort UK Biobank. Participants were recruited between March 13, 2006, and October 1, 2010, and data were censored June 25, 2021. Exposures The average frequency intake of 11 dietary factors in the year preceding baseline was obtained via a touchscreen questionnaire. After quality control for more than 93 million variants of imputed genetic data, 4 122 345 variants remained. Main Outcomes and Measures Colorectal cancer cases were identified according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision. Genome-wide interaction analysis was performed to test interactions between dietary factors and variants using a conditional logistic regression model. Summary statistics of interactions at the variant level were used to calculate empirical P values for interactions at gene and gene-set levels in gene-based and gene-set enrichment analyses. Results A total of 4686 participants with CRC (mean [SD] age, 60.7 [6.6] years; 2707 men [57.8%]) received a new diagnosis during a median of 12.4 years (IQR, 11.6-13.1 years) of follow-up. Once a case was detected, 3 matched controls were identified, for a total of 14 058 controls (mean [SD] age, 60.4 [6.6] years; 8121 men [57.8%]). A total of 324 variants were identified that interacted with diet consumption at the suggestive threshold (P < 1 × 10-5). In gene-based analysis, aggregation of multiple EPDR1 gene variants was found to interact with fish intake regarding CRC risk. Furthermore, gene-set enrichment analysis found that several sets of protein-coding genes, which were overrepresented with particular functions and pathways, interacted with the consumption of milk (ART), cheese (OR), tea (KRT), and alcohol (PRM and TNP). Conclusions and Relevance In this nested case-control study, the risk of CRC associated with fish intake was modified by multiple single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the EPDR1 gene. The findings further suggested possible functions and pathways that might link the consumption of milk, cheese, tea, and alcohol with CRC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tung Hoang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Integrated Major in Innovative Medical Science, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sooyoung Cho
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Yeob Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
- BK21plus Biomedical Science Project, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Daehee Kang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Aesun Shin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Integrated Major in Innovative Medical Science, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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Zhang Y, Guan Y, Zheng X, Li C. Hypoxia-induced miR-181a-5p up-regulation reduces epirubicin sensitivity in breast cancer cells through inhibiting EPDR1/TRPC1 to activate PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:167. [PMID: 38308220 PMCID: PMC10835859 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11906-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast carcinoma (BC) ranks as a predominant malignancy and constitutes the second principal cause of mortality among women globally. Epirubicin stands as the drug of choice for BC therapeutics. Nevertheless, the emergence of chemoresistance has significantly curtailed its therapeutic efficacy. The resistance mechanisms to Epirubicin remain not entirely elucidated, yet they are conjectured to stem from diminished tumor vascular perfusion and resultant hypoxia consequent to Epirubicin administration. In our investigation, we meticulously scrutinized the Gene Expression Omnibus database for EPDR1, a gene implicated in hypoxia and Epirubicin resistance in BC. Subsequently, we delineated the impact of EPDR1 on cellular proliferation, motility, invasive capabilities, and interstitial-related proteins in BC cells, employing methodologies such as the CCK-8 assay, Transwell assay, and western blot analysis. Our research further unveiled that hypoxia-induced miR-181a-5p orchestrates the regulation of BC cell duplication, migration, invasion, and interstitial-related protein expression via modulation of EPDR1. In addition, we identified TRPC1, a gene associated with EPDR1 expression in BC, and substantiated that EPDR1 influences BC cellular dynamics through TRPC1-mediated modulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling cascade. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of EPDR1 in the development of BC. EPDR1 was found to be expressed at subdued levels in BC tissues, Epirubicin-resistant BC cells, and hypoxic BC cells. The overexpression of EPDR1 curtailed BC cell proliferation, motility, invasiveness, and the expression of interstitial-related proteins. At a mechanistic level, the overexpression of hypoxia-induced miR-181a-5p was observed to inhibit the EPDR1/TRPC1 axis, thereby activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and diminishing the sensitivity to Epirubicin in BC cells. In summation, our study demonstrates that the augmentation of hypoxia-induced miR-181a-5p diminishes Epirubicin sensitivity in BC cells by attenuating EPDR1/TRPC1 expression, thereby invigorating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This exposition offers a theoretical foundation for the application of Epirubicin in BC therapy, marking a significant contribution to the existing body of oncological literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunwei Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
- Department of Breast Clinic, Shenyang Maternity and Child Health Hosital, No. 20, Yuanjiang Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yunping Guan
- Department of Breast Clinic, Shenyang Maternity and Child Health Hosital, No. 20, Yuanjiang Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xinyu Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
- Lab 1, Cancer Institute, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
| | - Chenyang Li
- Department of Breast Clinic, Shenyang Maternity and Child Health Hosital, No. 20, Yuanjiang Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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Kawasaki S, Kaneko T, Asano T, Maoka T, Takaichi S, Shomura Y. An ependymin-related blue carotenoprotein decorates marine blue sponge. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105110. [PMID: 37517696 PMCID: PMC10470211 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine animals display diverse vibrant colors, but the mechanisms underlying their specific coloration remain to be clarified. Blue coloration is known to be achieved through a bathochromic shift of the orange carotenoid astaxanthin (AXT) by the crustacean protein crustacyanin, but other examples have not yet been well investigated. Here, we identified an ependymin (EPD)-related water-soluble blue carotenoprotein responsible for the specific coloration of the marine blue sponge Haliclona sp. EPD was originally identified in the fish brain as a protein involved in memory consolidation and neuronal regeneration. The purified blue protein, designated as EPD-related blue carotenoprotein-1, was identified as a secreted glycoprotein. We show that it consists of a heterodimer that binds orange AXT and mytiloxanthin and exhibits a bathochromic shift. Our crystal structure analysis of the natively purified EPD-related blue carotenoprotein-1 revealed that these two carotenoids are specifically bound to the heterodimer interface, where the polyene chains are aligned in parallel to each other like in β-crustacyanin, although the two proteins are evolutionary and structurally unrelated. Furthermore, using reconstitution assays, we found that incomplete bathochromic shifts occurred when the protein bound to only AXT or mytiloxanthin. Taken together, we identified an EPD in a basal metazoan as a blue protein that decorates the sponge body by binding specific structurally unrelated carotenoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Kawasaki
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Takayuki Kaneko
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomomi Asano
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Maoka
- Research Institute for Production Development, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinichi Takaichi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Shomura
- Institute of Quantum Beam Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ibaraki University, Hitachi, Ibaraki, Japan.
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4
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Hillberg AK, Smith MK, Lausen BS, Suwansa-ard S, Johnston R, Mitu SA, MacDonald LE, Zhao M, Motti CA, Wang T, Elizur A, Nakashima K, Satoh N, Cummins SF. Crown-of-thorns starfish spines secrete defence proteins. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15689. [PMID: 37637177 PMCID: PMC10448888 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS; Acanthaster species) is a slow-moving corallivore protected by an extensive array of long, sharp toxic spines. Envenomation can result in nausea, numbness, vomiting, joint aches and sometimes paralysis. Small molecule saponins and the plancitoxin proteins have been implicated in COTS toxicity. Methods Brine shrimp lethality assays were used to confirm the secretion of spine toxin biomolecules. Histological analysis, followed by spine-derived proteomics helped to explain the source and identity of proteins, while quantitative RNA-sequencing and phylogeny confirmed target gene expression and relative conservation, respectively. Results We demonstrate the lethality of COTS spine secreted biomolecules on brine shrimp, including significant toxicity using aboral spine semi-purifications of >10 kDa (p > 0.05, 9.82 µg/ml), supporting the presence of secreted proteins as toxins. Ultrastructure observations of the COTS aboral spine showed the presence of pores that could facilitate the distribution of secreted proteins. Subsequent purification and mass spectrometry analysis of spine-derived proteins identified numerous secretory proteins, including plancitoxins, as well as those with relatively high gene expression in spines, including phospholipase A2, protease inhibitor 16-like protein, ependymin-related proteins and those uncharacterized. Some secretory proteins (e.g., vitellogenin and deleted in malignant brain tumor protein 1) were not highly expressed in spine tissue, yet the spine may serve as a storage or release site. This study contributes to our understanding of the COTS through functional, ultrastructural and proteomic analysis of aboral spines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam K. Hillberg
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Meaghan K. Smith
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Blake S. Lausen
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Saowaros Suwansa-ard
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Ryan Johnston
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Shahida A. Mitu
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Leah E. MacDonald
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Min Zhao
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Cherie A. Motti
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville, Australia
| | - Tianfang Wang
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Abigail Elizur
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Keisuke Nakashima
- Marine Genomics Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Satoh
- Marine Genomics Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Scott F. Cummins
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
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Losilla M, Gallant JR. Molecular evolution of the ependymin-related gene epdl2 in African weakly electric fish. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2023; 13:6931758. [PMID: 36529459 PMCID: PMC9997568 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkac331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Gene duplication and subsequent molecular evolution can give rise to taxon-specific gene specializations. In previous work, we found evidence that African weakly electric fish (Mormyridae) may have as many as three copies of the epdl2 gene, and the expression of two epdl2 genes is correlated with electric signal divergence. Epdl2 belongs to the ependymin-related family (EPDR), a functionally diverse family of secretory glycoproteins. In this study, we first describe vertebrate EPDR evolution and then present a detailed evolutionary history of epdl2 in Mormyridae with emphasis on the speciose genus Paramormyrops. Using Sanger sequencing, we confirm three apparently functional epdl2 genes in Paramormyrops kingsleyae. Next, we developed a nanopore-based amplicon sequencing strategy and bioinformatics pipeline to obtain and classify full-length epdl2 gene sequences (N = 34) across Mormyridae. Our phylogenetic analysis proposes three or four epdl2 paralogs dating from early Paramormyrops evolution. Finally, we conducted selection tests which detected positive selection around the duplication events and identified ten sites likely targeted by selection in the resulting paralogs. These sites' locations in our modeled 3D protein structure involve four sites in ligand binding and six sites in homodimer formation. Together, these findings strongly imply an evolutionary mechanism whereby epdl2 genes underwent selection-driven functional specialization after tandem duplications in the rapidly speciating Paramormyrops. Considering previous evidence, we propose that epdl2 may contribute to electric signal diversification in mormyrids, an important aspect of species recognition during mating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Losilla
- Department of Integrative Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.,Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Jason R Gallant
- Department of Integrative Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.,Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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6
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Structure and proteomic analysis of the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster sp.) radial nerve cord. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3349. [PMID: 36849815 PMCID: PMC9971248 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30425-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The nervous system of the Asteroidea (starfish or seastar) consists of radial nerve cords (RNCs) that interconnect with a ring nerve. Despite its relative simplicity, it facilitates the movement of multiple arms and numerous tube feet, as well as regeneration of damaged limbs. Here, we investigated the RNC ultrastructure and its molecular components within the of Pacific crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS; Acanthaster sp.), a well-known coral predator that in high-density outbreaks has major ecological impacts on coral reefs. We describe the presence of an array of unique small bulbous bulbs (40-100 μm diameter) that project from the ectoneural region of the adult RNC. Each comprise large secretory-like cells and prominent cilia. In contrast, juvenile COTS and its congener Acanthaster brevispinus lack these features, both of which are non-corallivorous. Proteomic analysis of the RNC (and isolated neural bulbs) provides the first comprehensive echinoderm protein database for neural tissue, including numerous secreted proteins associated with signalling, transport and defence. The neural bulbs contained several neuropeptides (e.g., bombyxin-type, starfish myorelaxant peptide, secretogranin 7B2-like, Ap15a-like, and ApNp35) and Deleted in Malignant Brain Tumor 1-like proteins. In summary, this study provides a new insight into the novel traits of COTS, a major pest on coral reefs, and a proteomics resource that can be used to develop (bio)control strategies and understand molecular mechanisms of regeneration.
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7
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Pretti C, Aretini P, Lessi F, Freitas R, Barata C, De Marchi L, Cuccaro A, Oliva M, Meucci V, Baratti M. Gene expression and biochemical patterns in the digestive gland of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamarck, 1819) exposed to 17α-ethinylestradiol. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 254:106376. [PMID: 36566548 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106376] [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: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) are a class of chemicals that can spread throughout the environment and may cause adverse biological and ecological effects. While there are many different classes of CECs, one of the most well documented in the aquatic environment are pharmaceutical drugs, such as natural and synthetic estrogens. In particular, the widespread presence of the synthetic estrogen 17 α-Ethinylestradiol (EE2) in water may lead to bioaccumulation in sediment and biota. EE2 is the primary component in contraceptive pills, and is a derivative of the natural hormone estradiol (E2). In this study, the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis was exposed to EE2 in a semi-static and time-dependent experiment, for a total exposure period of 28 days. Biochemical and transcriptomics analyses were performed on mussel digestive glands after exposure for 14 (T14) and 28 (T28) days. Metabolic and DNA impairments, as well as activation of antioxidant and biotransformation enzymes activation, were detected in T28 exposed mussels. RNA-Seq analysis showed significant differential expression of 160 (T14 compared to controls), 33 (T28 compared to controls) and 79 (T14 compared to T28) genes. Signs of stress after EE2 treatment included up-regulation of gene/proteins involved with immune function, lipid transport, and metabolic and antibacterial properties. This study elucidates the underlying mechanisms of EE2 in a filter feeding organisms to elucidate the effects of this human pharmaceutical on aquatic biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Pretti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Via Livornese (lato monte), 56122 San Piero a Grado, Pisa (Italy); Interuniversity Consortium of Marine Biology and Applied Ecology "G. Bacci" (CIBM), Viale N.Sauro 4, 57128 Livorno (Italy).
| | - Paolo Aretini
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza ONLUS, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Pisa (Italy)
| | - Francesca Lessi
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza ONLUS, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Pisa (Italy)
| | - Rosa Freitas
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro (Portugal)
| | - Carlos Barata
- Department of Environmental Chemistry IDAEA-CSIC Jordi Girona 18 08034 Barcelona (Spain)
| | - Lucia De Marchi
- Interuniversity Consortium of Marine Biology and Applied Ecology "G. Bacci" (CIBM), Viale N.Sauro 4, 57128 Livorno (Italy)
| | - Alessia Cuccaro
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro (Portugal)
| | - Matteo Oliva
- Interuniversity Consortium of Marine Biology and Applied Ecology "G. Bacci" (CIBM), Viale N.Sauro 4, 57128 Livorno (Italy)
| | - Valentina Meucci
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Via Livornese (lato monte), 56122 San Piero a Grado, Pisa (Italy)
| | - Mariella Baratti
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources, IBBR-CNR, Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze (Italy)
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Jönsson M, Morin M, Wang CK, Craik DJ, Degnan SM, Degnan BM. Sex-specific expression of pheromones and other signals in gravid starfish. BMC Biol 2022; 20:288. [PMID: 36528687 PMCID: PMC9759900 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01491-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many echinoderms form seasonal aggregations prior to spawning. In some fecund species, a spawning event can lead to population outbreaks with detrimental ecosystem impacts. For instance, outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS), a corallivore, can destroy coral reefs. Here, we examine the gene expression in gravid male and female COTS prior to spawning in the wild, to identify genome-encoded factors that may regulate aggregation and spawning. This study is informed by a previously identified exoproteome that attracts conspecifics. To capture the natural gene expression profiles, we isolated RNAs from gravid female and male COTS immediately after they were removed from the Great Barrier Reef. RESULTS: Sexually dimorphic gene expression is present in all seven somatic tissues and organs that we surveyed and in the gonads. Approximately 40% of the exoproteome transcripts are differentially expressed between sexes. Males uniquely upregulate an additional 68 secreted factors in their testes. A suite of neuropeptides in sensory organs, coelomocytes and gonads is differentially expressed between sexes, including the relaxin-like gonad-stimulating peptide and gonadotropin-releasing hormones. Female sensory tentacles-chemosensory organs at the distal tips of the starfish arms-uniquely upregulate diverse receptors and signalling molecules, including chemosensory G-protein-coupled receptors and several neuropeptides, including kisspeptin, SALMFamide and orexin. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of 103 tissue/organ transcriptomes from 13 wild COTS has revealed genes that are consistently differentially expressed between gravid females and males and that all tissues surveyed are sexually dimorphic at the molecular level. This finding is consistent with female and male COTS using sex-specific pheromones to regulate reproductive aggregations and synchronised spawning events. These pheromones appear to be received primarily by the sensory tentacles, which express a range of receptors and signalling molecules in a sex-specific manner. Furthermore, coelomocytes and gonads differentially express signalling and regulatory factors that control gametogenesis and spawning in other echinoderms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Jönsson
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Centre for Marine Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Marie Morin
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Centre for Marine Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Conan K. Wang
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Institute for Molecular Bioscience, ARC Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Institute for Molecular Bioscience, ARC Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Sandie M. Degnan
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Centre for Marine Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Bernard M. Degnan
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Centre for Marine Science, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
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Dietrich MA, Adamek M, Teitge F, Teich L, Jung-Schroers V, Malinowska A, Świderska B, Rakus K, Kodzik N, Chadzińska M, Karol H, Liszewska E, Ciereszko A. Proteomic analysis of carp seminal plasma provides insights into the immune response to bacterial infection of the male reproductive system. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 127:822-835. [PMID: 35840052 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Aeromonas salmonicida is recognized as a significant bacterial pathogen in ulcerative disease of cyprinid fish. However, the mechanism of immunity to these bacteria in common carp is still not well understood, especially the immune regulation in the gonad to bacterial infection. The aims of our study were to analyze changes in the seminal plasma proteome following A. salmonicida infection in carp males. The observed pathological changes in the tissue (liver, spleen, kidney and testis) morphology and upregulation of immune-related genes (tnfa2, il6a) confirmed the successful infection challenge. Using mass spectrometry-based label-free quantitative proteomics, we identified 1402 seminal plasma proteins, and 44 proteins (20 up- and 24 downregulated) were found to be differentially abundant between infected and control males. Most differentially abundant proteins were involved in the immune response mechanisms, such as acute phase response, complement activation and coagulation, inflammation, lipid metabolism, cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, creatine-phosphate biosynthesis and germ cell-Sertoli cell junction signaling. Bacterial infection also caused profound changes in expression of selected genes in the testis and hematopoietic organs, which contributed to changes in seminal proteins. The altered seminal proteins and bacterial proteins in seminal plasma may serve as valuable markers of infection in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariola A Dietrich
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Mikołaj Adamek
- Fish Disease Research Unit, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Felix Teitge
- Fish Disease Research Unit, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lukas Teich
- Fish Disease Research Unit, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Verena Jung-Schroers
- Fish Disease Research Unit, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Agata Malinowska
- Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Pawinskiego 5a, 02-106, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Bianka Świderska
- Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Pawinskiego 5a, 02-106, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Rakus
- Department of Evolutionary Immunology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Natalia Kodzik
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Magdalena Chadzińska
- Department of Evolutionary Immunology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Halina Karol
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Ewa Liszewska
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Andrzej Ciereszko
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
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10
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Molecular Responses to Thermal and Osmotic Stress in Arctic Intertidal Mussels (Mytilus edulis): The Limits of Resilience. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13010155. [PMID: 35052494 PMCID: PMC8774603 DOI: 10.3390/genes13010155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Increases in Arctic temperatures have accelerated melting of the Greenland icesheet, exposing intertidal organisms, such as the blue mussel Mytilus edulis, to high air temperatures and low salinities in summer. However, the interaction of these combined stressors is poorly described at the transcriptional level. Comparing expression profiles of M. edulis from experimentally warmed (30 °C and 33 °C) animals kept at control (23‰) and low salinities (15‰) revealed a significant lack of enrichment for Gene Ontology terms (GO), indicating that similar processes were active under all conditions. However, there was a progressive increase in the abundance of upregulated genes as each stressor was applied, with synergistic increases at 33 °C and 15‰, suggesting combined stressors push the animal towards their tolerance thresholds. Further analyses comparing the effects of salinity alone (23‰, 15‰ and 5‰) showed high expression of stress and osmoregulatory marker genes at the lowest salinity, implying that the cell is carrying out intracellular osmoregulation to maintain the cytosol as hyperosmotic. Identification of aquaporins and vacuolar-type ATPase transcripts suggested the cell may use fluid-filled cavities to excrete excess intracellular water, as previously identified in embryonic freshwater mussels. These results indicate that M. edulis has considerable resilience to heat stress and highly efficient mechanisms to acclimatise to lowered salinity in a changing world.
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11
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Park JK, Park S. A Single Soaked Iridium (
IV
) Ion Observed in the Frog Ependymin‐Related Protein. B KOREAN CHEM SOC 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/bkcs.12080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Kuk Park
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University Seoul 06978 South Korea
| | - SangYoun Park
- School of Systems Biomedical Science, Soongsil University Seoul 06978 South Korea
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12
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Wei Y, Xiong ZJ, Li J, Zou C, Cairo CW, Klassen JS, Privé GG. Crystal structures of human lysosomal EPDR1 reveal homology with the superfamily of bacterial lipoprotein transporters. Commun Biol 2019; 2:52. [PMID: 30729188 PMCID: PMC6363788 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-018-0262-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
EPDR1, a member of the ependymin-related protein family, is a relatively uncharacterized protein found in the lysosomes and secretomes of most vertebrates. Despite having roles in human disease and health, the molecular functions of EPDR1 remain unknown. Here, we present crystal structures of human EPDR1 and reveal that the protein adopts a fold previously seen only in bacterial proteins related to the LolA lipoprotein transporter. EPDR1 forms a homodimer with an overall shape resembling a half-shell with two non-overlapping hydrophobic grooves on the flat side of the hemisphere. EPDR1 can interact with membranes that contain negatively charged lipids, including BMP and GM1, and we suggest that EPDR1 may function as a lysosomal activator protein or a lipid transporter. A phylogenetic analysis reveals that the fold is more widely distributed than previously suspected, with representatives identified in all branches of cellular life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wei
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, M5G 1L7 ON Canada
| | - Zi Jian Xiong
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 1A8 ON Canada
| | - Jun Li
- Alberta Glycomics Centre and Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2G2 AB Canada
| | - Chunxia Zou
- Alberta Glycomics Centre and Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2G2 AB Canada
| | - Christopher W. Cairo
- Alberta Glycomics Centre and Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2G2 AB Canada
| | - John S. Klassen
- Alberta Glycomics Centre and Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2G2 AB Canada
| | - Gilbert G. Privé
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, M5G 1L7 ON Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 1A8 ON Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5G 1L7 ON Canada
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