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Xu P, Liu B, Chen H, Wang H, Guo X, Yuan J. PAHs as environmental pollutants and their neurotoxic effects. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 283:109975. [PMID: 38972621 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109975] [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] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are widely present in incompletely combusted air particulate matter <2.5 μm (PM2.5), tobacco and other organic materials, can enter the human body through various routes and are a class of environmental pollutants with neurotoxic effects. PAHs exposure can lead to abnormal development of the nervous system and neurobehavioral abnormalities in animals, including adverse effects on the nervous system of children and adults, such as a reduced learning ability, intellectual decline, and neural tube defects. After PAHs enter cells of the nervous system, they eventually lead to nervous system damage through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, DNA methylation and demethylation, and mitochondrial autophagy, potentially leading to a series of nervous system diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, preventing and treating neurological diseases caused by PAHs exposure are particularly important. From the perspective of the in vitro and in vivo effects of PAHs exposure, as well as its effects on human neurodevelopment, this paper reviews the toxic mechanisms of action of PAHs and the corresponding prevention and treatment methods to provide a relevant theoretical basis for preventing the neurotoxicity caused by PAHs, thereby reducing the incidence of diseases related to the nervous system and protecting human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peixin Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Bingchun Liu
- Stem Cell Laboratory / Central Laboratory Of Organ Transplantation / Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Engineering Laboratory For Genetic Test And Research Of Tumor Cells, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Huizeng Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xin Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jianlong Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China.
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2
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Sobral AF, Cunha A, Silva V, Gil-Martins E, Silva R, Barbosa DJ. Unveiling the Therapeutic Potential of Folate-Dependent One-Carbon Metabolism in Cancer and Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9339. [PMID: 39273288 PMCID: PMC11395277 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179339] [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: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular metabolism is crucial for various physiological processes, with folate-dependent one-carbon (1C) metabolism playing a pivotal role. Folate, a B vitamin, is a key cofactor in this pathway, supporting DNA synthesis, methylation processes, and antioxidant defenses. In dividing cells, folate facilitates nucleotide biosynthesis, ensuring genomic stability and preventing carcinogenesis. Additionally, in neurodevelopment, folate is essential for neural tube closure and central nervous system formation. Thus, dysregulation of folate metabolism can contribute to pathologies such as cancer, severe birth defects, and neurodegenerative diseases. Epidemiological evidence highlights folate's impact on disease risk and its potential as a therapeutic target. In cancer, antifolate drugs that inhibit key enzymes of folate-dependent 1C metabolism and strategies targeting folate receptors are current therapeutic options. However, folate's impact on cancer risk is complex, varying among cancer types and dietary contexts. In neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, folate deficiency exacerbates cognitive decline through elevated homocysteine levels, contributing to neuronal damage. Clinical trials of folic acid supplementation show mixed outcomes, underscoring the complexities of its neuroprotective effects. This review integrates current knowledge on folate metabolism in cancer and neurodegeneration, exploring molecular mechanisms, clinical implications, and therapeutic strategies, which can provide crucial information for advancing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Filipa Sobral
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences-CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Toxicologic Pathology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Andrea Cunha
- UNIPRO-Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences-CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Vera Silva
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Eva Gil-Martins
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- CIQUP-IMS/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Renata Silva
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniel José Barbosa
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences-CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
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Wang X, Wei K, Wang M, Zhang L. Identification of potential key ferroptosis- and autophagy-related genes in myelomeningocele through bioinformatics analysis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29654. [PMID: 38660270 PMCID: PMC11040124 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Myelomeningocele is a common congenital anomaly associated with polygenic disorders worldwide. However, the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying myelomeningocele remain elusive. To investigate whether ferroptosis and ferritinophagy contribute to the pathomechanism of myelomeningocele, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified as novel biomarker and potential treatment agents. The GSE101141 dataset from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) was analyzed using GEO2R web tool to obtain DEGs based on |log2 fold change (FC)|≥1.5 and p < 0.05. Two datasets from the Ferroptosis Database (481 genes) and Autophagy Database (551 genes) were intersected with the DEGs from the GSE101141 dataset to identify ferroptosis- and autophagy-related DEGs using Venn diagrams. Functional and pathway enrichment, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses were performed, and candidate genes were selected. Transcription factors (TFs), microRNAs (miRNAs), diseases and chemicals interacting with the candidate genes were identified. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to validate the diagnostic value of the candidate genes. Sixty ferroptosis-related and 74 autophagy-related DEGs were identified. These DEGs are involved in FoxO signaling pathway. Six candidate genes (EGFR, KRAS, IL1B, SIRT1, ATM, and MAPK8) were selected. miRNAs such as hsa-miR-27a-3p, hsa-miR-877-5p, and hsa-miR-892b, and TFs including P53, POU3F2, TATA are involved in regulation of candidate genes. Diseases such as schizophrenia, fibrosis, and neoplasms are the most relevant to the candidate genes. Chemicals, such as resveratrol, curcumin, and quercetin may have significant implications in the treatment of myelomeningocele. The candidate genes, especially MAPK8, also showed a high diagnostic value for myelomeningocele. These results help to shed light on the molecular mechanism of myelomeningocele and may provide new insights into diagnostic biomarker in the amniotic fluid and potential therapeutic agents of myelomeningocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuwei Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Translational Medicine Laboratory, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Kaixin Wei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Liver Transplant Center, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
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Gurugubelli KR, Ballambattu VB. Perspectives on folate with special reference to epigenetics and neural tube defects. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 125:108576. [PMID: 38479591 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108576] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Folate is a micronutrient essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, fetal growth and development. Folate deficiency leads to genomic instability. Inadequate intake of folate during conception may lead to neural tube defects (NTDs) in the offspring. Folate influences the DNA methylation, histone methylation and homocysteine mediated gene methylation. DNA methylation influences the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). Folate deficiency may be associated with miRNAs misregulation leading to NTDs. Mitochondrial epigenetics and folate metabolism has proved to be involved in embryogenesis and neural tube development. Folate related genetic variants also cause the occurrence of NTDs. Unmetabolized excessive folate may affect health adversely. Hence estimation of folate levels in the blood plays an important role in high-risk cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Rao Gurugubelli
- Department of Biochemistry, Andhra Medical College (AMC), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Vishnu Bhat Ballambattu
- Aarupadai Veedu Medical College & Hospital (AVMC & H), Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (DU), Kirumambakkam, Puducherry, India.
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V RP, Finnell RH, Ross ME, Alarcón P, Suazo J. Neural tube defects and epigenetics: role of histone post-translational histone modifications. Epigenomics 2024; 16:419-426. [PMID: 38410929 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are the most common congenital anomalies of the CNS. It is widely appreciated that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to their etiology. The inability to ascribe clear genetic patterns of inheritance to various NTD phenotypes suggests it is possible that epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the etiology of NTDs. In this context, the contribution of DNA methylation as an underlying contributing factor to the etiology of NTDs has been extensively reviewed. Here, an updated accounting of the evidence linking post-translational histone modifications to these birth defects, relying heavily upon studies in humans, and the possible molecular implications inferred from reports based on cellular and animal models, are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Pardo V
- Section of Genetics, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca Tobar #999, Santiago, Chile
- Unit of Neonatology, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca Tobar #999, Santiago, Chile
| | - Richard H Finnell
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M Elizabeth Ross
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain & Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 407 East 61st Street, NY, USA
| | - Pablo Alarcón
- Section of Genetics, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Dr. Carlos Lorca Tobar #999, Santiago, Chile
- Section of Genetics, Hospital Sótero del Río, Avenida Concha y Toro #3459, Santiago, Chile
| | - José Suazo
- Institute for Research in Dental Sciences, School of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Olivos #943, Santiago, Chile
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Li X, Pei P, Shen J, Yu J, Wang F, Wang L, Liu C, Wang S. Folate deficiency reduced aberrant level of DOT1L-mediated histone H3K79 methylation causes disruptive SHH gene expression involved in neural tube defects. Epigenetics Chromatin 2023; 16:50. [PMID: 38093377 PMCID: PMC10720071 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-023-00517-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural tube defects (NTDs) are one of the most severe congenital abnormalities characterized by failures of the neural tube to close during early embryogenesis. Maternal folate deficiency could impact the occurrence of NTDs, however, the mechanisms involved in the cause of NTDs are poorly defined. RESULTS Here, we report that histone H3 methyltransferase disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like (DOT1L) expression was significantly downregulated, and low levels of H3K79me2 were found in the corresponding NTDs samples with their maternal serum folate under low levels. Using ChIP-seq assays, we found that a decrease of H3K79me2 downregulates the expression of Shh and Sufu in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC) under folate deficiency. Interestingly, folate antagonist methotrexate treatment led to attenuation of H3K79me2 due to Dot1l, affecting Shh and Sufu genes regulation. Upon further analysis, we find that the genes Shh and Sufu are both downregulated in the brain tissues of mice and humans with NTDs. There was a positive correlation between the transcription levels of Shh, Sufu and the protein levels of DOT1L by Pearson correlation analysis. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that abnormal Shh and Sufu genes expression reduced by aberrant Dot1l-mediated H3K79me2 levels could be the cause of NTDs occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, 261041, Shandong, China
- School of Clinical Medical, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jinying Shen
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Juan Yu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Changyun Liu
- School of Clinical Medical, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China.
| | - Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Wang S, He X, Wang Y, Zeng Y, Pei P, Zhan X, Zhang M, Zhang T. Intergenerational association of gut microbiota and metabolism with perinatal folate metabolism and neural tube defects. iScience 2023; 26:107514. [PMID: 37636040 PMCID: PMC10457452 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Disorders of folic acid metabolism during pregnancy lead to fetal neural tube defects (NTDs). However, the mechanisms still require further investigation. Here, we aim to analyze the brain metabolic profiles of 30 NTDs and 30 healthy fetuses. Our results indicated that low-folate diet during early life played a causal role in cerebral metabolism, especially in lipometabolic disturbance, highlighting the importance of folate in modulating brain development and metabolism. Next, we established a mouse model of NTDs. Interestingly, the differential metabolites are mainly involved in glycerophospholipid metabolism and biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids both in human and mice fetal brain. Since intestinal microbes could critically regulate neurofunction via the intestinal-brain axis, we further found the abundances of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in the gut of pregnant mice were correlated with the abundances of lipid metabolism related metabolites in the fetal brain. This finding probably reflects the intergenerational microbial-metabolism biomarkers of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xuejia He
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yubing Zeng
- Children’s Hospital Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhan
- Otorhinolaryngologic Department, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing 100020, China
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Liwinski T, Lang UE. Folate and Its Significance in Depressive Disorders and Suicidality: A Comprehensive Narrative Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3859. [PMID: 37686891 PMCID: PMC10490031 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorders pose significant challenges to global public health, necessitating effective prevention and management strategies. Notably, the occurrence of suicide frequently coincides with depressive episodes. Suicide is as a paramount global health concern that demands efficacious preventive strategies. Current psychiatric approaches heavily rely on pharmacological interventions but have had limited success in addressing the global burden of mental health issues. Suboptimal nutrition, with its impact on the neuroendocrine system, has been implicated in the underlying pathology of depressive disorders. Folate, a group of water-soluble compounds, plays a crucial role in various central nervous system functions. Depressed individuals often exhibit low levels of serum and red blood cell folate. Multiple studies and systematic reviews have investigated the efficacy of folic acid and its derivative, L-methylfolate, which can cross the blood-brain barrier, as stand-alone or adjunct therapies for depression. Although findings have been mixed, the available evidence generally supports the use of these compounds in depressed individuals. Recent studies have established links between the one-carbon cycle, folate-homocysteine balance, immune system function, glutamate excitation via NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors, and gut microbiome eubiosis in mood regulation. These findings provide insights into the complex neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of folate and related compounds in depression. Through a comprehensive review of the existing literature, this study aims to advance our understanding of the therapeutic potential of folic acid and related compounds in depression treatment. It also seeks to explore their role in addressing suicidal tendencies and shed light on the neurobiological mechanisms involved, leveraging the latest discoveries in depression research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timur Liwinski
- Clinic for Adult Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Clinics, University of Basel, Wilhelm Klein-Strasse 27, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland;
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Wang X, Yu J, Wang J. Neural Tube Defects and Folate Deficiency: Is DNA Repair Defective? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032220. [PMID: 36768542 PMCID: PMC9916799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are complex congenital malformations resulting from failure of neural tube closure during embryogenesis, which is affected by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. It is well known that folate deficiency increases the incidence of NTDs; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Folate deficiency not only causes DNA hypomethylation, but also blocks the synthesis of 2'-deoxythymidine-5'-monophosphate (dTMP) and increases uracil misincorporation, resulting in genomic instabilities such as base mismatch, DNA breakage, and even chromosome aberration. DNA repair pathways are essential for ensuring normal DNA synthesis, genomic stability and integrity during embryonic neural development. Genomic instability or lack of DNA repair has been implicated in risk of development of NTDs. Here, we reviewed the relationship between folate deficiency, DNA repair pathways and NTDs so as to reveal the role and significance of DNA repair system in the pathogenesis of NTDs and better understand the pathogenesis of NTDs.
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Wang S, Zeng Y, He X, Liu F, Pei P, Zhang T. Folate-deficiency induced acyl-CoA synthetase short-chain family member 2 increases lysine crotonylome involved in neural tube defects. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1064509. [PMID: 36743291 PMCID: PMC9895841 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1064509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal folate deficiency increases the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs), but the mechanism remains unclear. Here, we established a mouse model of NTDs via low folate diets combined with MTX-induced conditions. We found that a significant increase in butyrate acid was observed in mouse NTDs brains. In addition, aberrant key crotonyl-CoA-producing enzymes acyl-CoA synthetase short-chain family member 2 (ACSS2) levels and lysine crotonylation (Kcr) were elevated high in corresponding low folate content maternal serum samples from mouse NTD model. Next, proteomic analysis revealed that folate deficiency led to global proteomic modulation, especially in key crotonyl-CoA-producing enzymes, and dramatic ultrastructural changes in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Furthermore, we determined that folate deficiency induced ACSS2 and Kcr in mESCs. Surprisingly, folic acid supplementation restored level of ACSS2 and Kcr. We also investigated overall protein post-translational Kcr under folate deficiency, revealing the key regulation of Kcr in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and the citric acid cycle. Our findings suggest folate deficiency leads to the occurrence of NTDs by altering ACSS2. Protein crotonylation may be the molecular basis for NTDs remodeling by folate deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Shan Wang, ; Ting Zhang,
| | - Yubing Zeng
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Xuejia He
- Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Shan Wang, ; Ting Zhang,
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11
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Wang S, Zeng Y, Pei P, He X, Liu F, Zhang T. Abnormal transcriptome-wide DNA demethylation induced by folate deficiency causes neural tube defects. Front Genet 2022; 13:987210. [PMID: 36199572 PMCID: PMC9529027 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.987210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defect (NTDs) is one of the most common and serious fetal and neonatal birth defects. Neural tube closure (NTC) is an exquisitely coordinated process and this procedure is influenced by both genetic and environmental factor. Folic acid (FA) supplementation is an effective for prevention of a proportion of NTDs, however, the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, our data demonstrated genome-wide enrichment of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) modification on active transcriptional start sites (TSS) and decreased 5-methylcytosine (5mC) binding to TSS under folate deficiency in mESCs (mouse embryonic stem cells). Furthermore, folate deficiency promoted 5hmC enrichment enhancer histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) binding to Shh pathway genes in mESCs. Upregulation of Shh target genes was observed in mouse brain tissue under low levels of maternal serum folate, along with increased expression of 5-methylcytosine dioxygenase Tet1 levels. Taken together, we found that folate deficiency promoted DNA demethylation and enriched 5hmC through recruitment of H3K27ac to activate the Shh signaling pathway. These results suggest that the 5hmC modification increases concomitantly with a positive correlation to Shh gene expression in folate deficiency-induced mouse NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
- Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
- Children’s Hospital Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Shan Wang, ; Ting Zhang,
| | - Yubing Zeng
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Xuejia He
- Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Children’s Hospital Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
- Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
- Children’s Hospital Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Shan Wang, ; Ting Zhang,
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12
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Engelhardt DM, Martyr CA, Niswander L. Pathogenesis of neural tube defects: The regulation and disruption of cellular processes underlying neural tube closure. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1559. [PMID: 35504597 PMCID: PMC9605354 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube closure (NTC) is crucial for proper development of the brain and spinal cord and requires precise morphogenesis from a sheet of cells to an intact three-dimensional structure. NTC is dependent on successful regulation of hundreds of genes, a myriad of signaling pathways, concentration gradients, and is influenced by epigenetic and environmental cues. Failure of NTC is termed a neural tube defect (NTD) and is a leading class of congenital defects in the United States and worldwide. Though NTDs are all defined as incomplete closure of the neural tube, the pathogenesis of an NTD determines the type, severity, positioning, and accompanying phenotypes. In this review, we survey pathogenesis of NTDs relating to disruption of cellular processes arising from genetic mutations, altered epigenetic regulation, and environmental influences by micronutrients and maternal condition. This article is categorized under: Congenital Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Neurological Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Engelhardt
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Cara A Martyr
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Lee Niswander
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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13
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Li C, Gao B, Lin H, Li Y, Xiu B, Dai Y. Efficacy of microsurgery for congenital neural tube defects in newborns. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:5574-5582. [PMID: 36105063 PMCID: PMC9452357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical value of microsurgery in the treatment of congenital neural tube defect (CNTD) in newborns. METHODS Eighty-five CNTD newborns withlipomyelomeningocele admitted to our hospital from March 2016 to December 2018 were retrospectively selected as study subjects. They were divided into a study group (SG, 43 cases, that received meningocele repair combined with tethered cord release within 6 h to 30 d after birth) and the control group (CG, 42 cases, that received meningocele repair combined with tethered cord release past 30 d after birth) according to the treatment regimen. Newborns in both groups were evaluated for short-term and long-term outcome of the surgery and the degree of postoperative untethering, and both groups were followed up dynamically to record changes in gross motor function and quality of life and assess risk factors. RESULTS In terms of short-term outcomes, the total effective rate was 93.02% in SG and 85.71% in CG (P > 0.05); in terms of the long-term outcomes, the total effective rate was 88.37% in SG and 69.05% in CG (P < 0.05). The postoperative release of the newborns was evaluated according to the Kirollos grading system, which showed that SG had 40 (93.02%) cases of grade 1 untethering, 3 (6.98%) cases of grade 2 untethering, and 0 case of grade 3 untethering, and CG had 30 (71.43%) cases of grade 1 untethering, and 12 (28.57%) cases of grade 2 untethering. At 6 months postoperatively, there were no significant differences in gross motor function and quality of life scores between the two groups (P > 0.05), but at 1 year, 3 years and 4 years postoperatively, the gross motor function and quality of life scores of newborns in the SG were significantly higher than those in the CG (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age > 1 month was an independent risk factor for surgical outcome (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Microsurgery has better short-term and long-term outcomes for newborns with CNTD, and the newborns showed an improvement in the long-term postoperative motor function and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuicui Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing 100853, China
| | - Bingbing Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing 100853, China
| | - Hepu Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing 100853, China
| | - Yunjun Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing 100853, China
| | - Bo Xiu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing 100853, China
| | - Yiwu Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing 100853, China
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14
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Liu Y, Cui DX, Pan Y, Yu SH, Zheng LW, Wan M. Metabolic-epigenetic nexus in regulation of stem cell fate. World J Stem Cells 2022; 14:490-502. [PMID: 36157525 PMCID: PMC9350619 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v14.i7.490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell fate determination is one of the central questions in stem cell biology, and although its regulation has been studied at genomic and proteomic levels, a variety of biological activities in cells occur at the metabolic level. Metabolomics studies have established the metabolome during stem cell differentiation and have revealed the role of metabolites in stem cell fate determination. While metabolism is considered to play a biological regulatory role as an energy source, recent studies have suggested the nexus between metabolism and epigenetics because several metabolites function as cofactors and substrates in epigenetic mechanisms, including histone modification, DNA methylation, and microRNAs. Additionally, the epigenetic modification is sensitive to the dynamic metabolites and consequently leads to changes in transcription. The nexus between metabolism and epigenetics proposes a novel stem cell-based therapeutic strategy through manipulating metabolites. In the present review, we summarize the possible nexus between metabolic and epigenetic regulation in stem cell fate determination, and discuss the potential preventive and therapeutic strategies via targeting metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Di-Xin Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yue Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Si-Han Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Li-Wei Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Mian Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Cariology and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
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Isaković J, Šimunić I, Jagečić D, Hribljan V, Mitrečić D. Overview of Neural Tube Defects: Gene–Environment Interactions, Preventative Approaches and Future Perspectives. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10050965. [PMID: 35625701 PMCID: PMC9138472 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are the second most common congenital malformations of humans, characterized by impaired development of the central nervous system. Even though the etiology of most birth defects remains undetermined, genetic and environmental risk factors in the background of NTDs have been identified and extensively reported. On top of genetic and nutritional risks which include mutations in both coding and non-coding regions and maternal folate status, respectively, recent years have seen a rise in the identification of a variety of teratogens that could be implicated in NTD development. These include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, arsenic, pesticides, maternal hyperthermia and antibiotics as well as pain and seizure medication. With an increase in understanding of teratogens leading to NTD formation, preventative and treatment approaches have witnessed great advances throughout the years. While the most common preventative approach includes folic acid food fortification as well as suggested inositol supplementation, treatment and management approaches differ greatly depending on the developmental stage and the site of the lesion and include prenatal surgery, stem cell transplantation and postnatal surgery. Because NTDs still represent a large health and financial burden for the patient and society as a whole, it is crucial to investigate potential risk factors and develop novel approaches in order to fully prevent this category of disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmina Isaković
- Omnion Research International Ltd., Heinzelova 4, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Iva Šimunić
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Denis Jagečić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Valentina Hribljan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Dinko Mitrečić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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Zhang L, Cao R, Li D, Sun Y, Zhang J, Wang X, Khan A, Liu Z, Niu B, Xu J, Xie J. Ethionine-mediated reduction of S-adenosylmethionine is responsible for the neural tube defects in the developing mouse embryo-mediated m6A modification and is involved in neural tube defects via modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Epigenetics Chromatin 2021; 14:52. [PMID: 34863249 PMCID: PMC8645112 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-021-00426-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) remain one of the most life-threatening birth defects affecting infants. Most patients with NTDs eventually develop lifelong disability, which cause significant morbidity and mortality and seriously reduce the quality of life. Our previous study has found that ethionine inhibits cell viability by disrupting the balance between proliferation and apoptosis, and preventing neural stem cells from differentiating into neurons and astrocytes. However, how ethionine participates in the pathogenesis of neural tube development through N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification remains unknown. This study aims to investigate METTL3- and ALKBH5-mediated m6A modification function and mechanism in NTDs. Herein, our results demonstrate that SAM play not only a compensatory role, it also leads to changes of m6A modification in neural tube development and regulation. Additionally, these data implicate that METTL3 is enriched in HT-22 cells, and METTL3 knockdown reduces cell proliferation and increases apoptosis through suppressing Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Significantly, overexpression of ALKBH5 can only inhibit cell proliferation, but cannot promote cell apoptosis. This research reveals an important role of SAM in development of NTDs, providing a good theoretical basis for further research on NTDs. This finding represents a novel epigenetic mechanism underlying that the m6A modification has profound and lasting implications for neural tube development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.,Institute of Liver Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Rui Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.,Biology Institute of Shanxi, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuqing Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.,Institute of Liver Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiuwei Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Ajab Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhizhen Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Bo Niu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China. .,Institute of Liver Diseases and Organ Transplantation, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
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Kakebeen AD, Niswander L. Micronutrient imbalance and common phenotypes in neural tube defects. Genesis 2021; 59:e23455. [PMID: 34665506 PMCID: PMC8599664 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are among the most common birth defects, with a prevalence of close to 19 per 10,000 births worldwide. The etiology of NTDs is complex involving the interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Since nutrient deficiency is a risk factor and dietary changes are the major preventative measure to reduce the risk of NTDs, a more detailed understanding of how common micronutrient imbalances contribute to NTDs is crucial. While folic acid has been the most discussed environmental factor due to the success that population-wide fortification has had on prevention of NTDs, folic acid supplementation does not prevent all NTDs. The imbalance of several other micronutrients has been implicated as risks for NTDs by epidemiological studies and in vivo studies in animal models. In this review, we highlight recent literature deciphering the multifactorial mechanisms underlying NTDs with an emphasis on mouse and human data. Specifically, we focus on advances in our understanding of how too much or too little retinoic acid, zinc, and iron alter gene expression and cellular processes contributing to the pathobiology of NTDs. Synthesis of the discussed literature reveals common cellular phenotypes found in embryos with NTDs resulting from several micronutrient imbalances. The goal is to combine knowledge of these common cellular phenotypes with mechanisms underlying micronutrient imbalances to provide insights into possible new targets for preventative measures against NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneke Dixie Kakebeen
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Lee Niswander
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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18
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Zhang Y, Yuan H, Peng M, Hu Z, Fan Z, Xu J, He L, Wang Y, Wang W, Su Y, Liu C, Zhang H, Zhao K. Folic acid deficiency damages male reproduction via endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated PERK pathway induced by Caveolin-1 in mice. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:383-394. [PMID: 34474604 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1954724] [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] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Folic acid is critical to maintaining normal male reproductive function. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays a crucial role in folic acid deficiency. Studies have shown that Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is involved in ER stress, but the specific mechanism in male reproduction is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of folic acid deficiency on spermatogenesis and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. C57BL/6 mice fed with folic acid deficiency induced diet(0.3 mg/kg) were used. A significant decrease in the sperm concentration in the folic acid deficiency group was observed. Meanwhile, folic acid deficiency decreased Cav-1 expression in the testis tissue and increased endoplasmic reticulum stress-related PERK, eIF2α, ATF4, CHOP gene expression. Our results suggest that folic acid deficiency can affect male reproduction through the Cav-1-PERK-eIFα-ATF4-CHOP pathway.Abbreviations: ATF4: activating transcription factor 4; Ca2+: calcium ion; Cav-1: Caveolin-1; CCK-8: cell counting kit-8; CHOP: CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein; DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid; DSB: double strand breakage; eIF2α: eukaryotic Initiation Factor 2 alpha; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; FD: folic acid deficiency; FITC: fluorescein isothiocyanate; HE: hematoxylin and eosin; H3K4me3: histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation; PERK: protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase; PI: propidium iodide; RT-qPCR: quantitative reverse transcription PCR; TUNEL: TdT mediated dUTP Nick End Labeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongfang Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics And Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meilin Peng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiyong Hu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zunpan Fan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liting He
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yongfeng Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufang Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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19
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Duque-Díaz E, Coveñas R. Mapping of folic acid in the children brainstem. Anat Cell Biol 2021; 54:340-349. [PMID: 33967031 PMCID: PMC8493014 DOI: 10.5115/acb.21.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Using highly specific antisera, the neuroanatomical distribution of folic acid (FA) and retinoic acid (RA) has been studied for the first time in the children brainstem. Neither immunoreactive structures containing RA nor immunoreactive fibers containing FA were found. FA-immunoreactive perikarya (fusiform, small/medium in size, one short dendrite) were only found in the pons in three regions: central gray, reticular formation, and locus coeruleus. The number of cell bodies decreased with age. In the first case studied (2 years), a moderate density of cell bodies was observed in the central gray and reticular formation, whereas a low density was found in the locus coeruleus. In the second case (6 years), a low density of these perikarya was observed in the central gray, reticular formation, and locus coeruleus. In the third case (7 years), a low density of FA-immunoreactive cell bodies was found in the central gray and reticular formation, whereas in the locus coeruleus no immunoreactive cell bodies were observed. The distribution of FA in the central nervous system of humans and monkeys is different and, in addition, in these species the vitamin was located in different parts of the nerve cells. The restricted distribution of FA suggests that the vitamin is involved in specific physiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewing Duque-Díaz
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Rafael Coveñas
- Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León (INCYL), Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Grupo GIR BMD (Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Aberrant Gcm1 expression mediates Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation in folate deficiency involved in neural tube defects. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:234. [PMID: 33664222 PMCID: PMC7933360 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03313-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays a major role in early neural development. An aberrant activation in Wnt/β-catenin pathway causes defective anteroposterior patterning, which results in neural tube closure defects (NTDs). Changes in folate metabolism may participate in early embryo fate determination. We have identified that folate deficiency activated Wnt/β-catenin pathway by upregulating a chorion-specific transcription factor Gcm1. Specifically, folate deficiency promoted formation of the Gcm1/β-catenin/T-cell factor (TCF4) complex formation to regulate the Wnt targeted gene transactivation through Wnt-responsive elements. Moreover, the transcription factor Nanog upregulated Gcm1 transcription in mESCs under folate deficiency. Lastly, in NTDs mouse models and low-folate NTDs human brain samples, Gcm1 and Wnt/β-catenin targeted genes related to neural tube closure are specifically overexpressed. These results indicated that low-folate level promoted Wnt/β-catenin signaling via activating Gcm1, and thus leaded into aberrant vertebrate neural development.
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