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Viger RS, de Mattos K, Tremblay JJ. Insights Into the Roles of GATA Factors in Mammalian Testis Development and the Control of Fetal Testis Gene Expression. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:902198. [PMID: 35692407 PMCID: PMC9178088 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.902198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Defining how genes get turned on and off in a correct spatiotemporal manner is integral to our understanding of the development, differentiation, and function of different cell types in both health and disease. Testis development and subsequent male sex differentiation of the XY fetus are well-orchestrated processes that require an intricate network of cell-cell communication and hormonal signals that must be properly interpreted at the genomic level. Transcription factors are at the forefront for translating these signals into a coordinated genomic response. The GATA family of transcriptional regulators were first described as essential regulators of hematopoietic cell differentiation and heart morphogenesis but are now known to impact the development and function of a multitude of tissues and cell types. The mammalian testis is no exception where GATA factors play essential roles in directing the expression of genes crucial not only for testis differentiation but also testis function in the developing male fetus and later in adulthood. This minireview provides an overview of the current state of knowledge of GATA factors in the male gonad with a particular emphasis on their mechanisms of action in the control of testis development, gene expression in the fetal testis, testicular disease, and XY sex differentiation in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S. Viger
- Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec—Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Robert S. Viger,
| | - Karine de Mattos
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec—Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jacques J. Tremblay
- Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche du centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec—Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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2
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Li Y, Jin W, Wang Y, Zhang J, Meng C, Wang H, Qian Y, Li Q, Cao S. Three Complete Linkage SNPs ofGDF9Gene Affect the Litter Size Probably Mediated by OCT1 in Hu Sheep. DNA Cell Biol 2020; 39:563-571. [DOI: 10.1089/dna.2019.4984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yinxia Li
- Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Nanjing, China
- The Jiangsu Provincial Platform for Conservation and Utilization of Agricultural Germplasm, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenwen Jin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Nanjing, China
- The Jiangsu Provincial Platform for Conservation and Utilization of Agricultural Germplasm, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Nanjing, China
- The Jiangsu Provincial Platform for Conservation and Utilization of Agricultural Germplasm, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunhua Meng
- Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Nanjing, China
- The Jiangsu Provincial Platform for Conservation and Utilization of Agricultural Germplasm, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, China
| | - Huili Wang
- Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Nanjing, China
- The Jiangsu Provincial Platform for Conservation and Utilization of Agricultural Germplasm, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Qian
- Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Nanjing, China
- The Jiangsu Provincial Platform for Conservation and Utilization of Agricultural Germplasm, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, China
| | - Qifa Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shaoxian Cao
- Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Nanjing, China
- The Jiangsu Provincial Platform for Conservation and Utilization of Agricultural Germplasm, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Crop and Animal Integrated Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, China
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3
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Hermann BP, Cheng K, Singh A, Roa-De La Cruz L, Mutoji KN, Chen IC, Gildersleeve H, Lehle JD, Mayo M, Westernströer B, Law NC, Oatley MJ, Velte EK, Niedenberger BA, Fritze D, Silber S, Geyer CB, Oatley JM, McCarrey JR. The Mammalian Spermatogenesis Single-Cell Transcriptome, from Spermatogonial Stem Cells to Spermatids. Cell Rep 2019; 25:1650-1667.e8. [PMID: 30404016 PMCID: PMC6384825 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 330] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex and dynamic cellular differentiation process critical to male reproduction and sustained by spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Although patterns of gene expression have been described for aggregates of certain spermatogenic cell types, the full continuum of gene expression patterns underlying ongoing spermatogenesis in steady state was previously unclear. Here, we catalog single-cell transcriptomes for >62,000 individual spermatogenic cells from immature (postnatal day 6) and adult male mice and adult men. This allowed us to resolve SSC and progenitor spermatogonia, elucidate the full range of gene expression changes during male meiosis and spermiogenesis, and derive unique gene expression signatures for multiple mouse and human spermatogenic cell types and/or subtypes. These transcriptome datasets provide an information-rich resource for studies of SSCs, male meiosis, testicular cancer, male infertility, or contraceptive development, as well as a gene expression roadmap to be emulated in efforts to achieve spermatogenesis in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Hermann
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA; Genomics Core, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
| | - Keren Cheng
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Anukriti Singh
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Lorena Roa-De La Cruz
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Kazadi N Mutoji
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - I-Chung Chen
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Heidi Gildersleeve
- Genomics Core, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Jake D Lehle
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Max Mayo
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Birgit Westernströer
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Nathan C Law
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA
| | - Melissa J Oatley
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA
| | - Ellen K Velte
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Bryan A Niedenberger
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Danielle Fritze
- The UT Transplant Center, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Sherman Silber
- The Infertility Center of St. Louis, Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA
| | - Christopher B Geyer
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA; East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Jon M Oatley
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA
| | - John R McCarrey
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
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Schrade A, Kyrönlahti A, Akinrinade O, Pihlajoki M, Fischer S, Rodriguez VM, Otte K, Velagapudi V, Toppari J, Wilson DB, Heikinheimo M. GATA4 Regulates Blood-Testis Barrier Function and Lactate Metabolism in Mouse Sertoli Cells. Endocrinology 2016; 157:2416-31. [PMID: 26974005 PMCID: PMC4891789 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Conditional deletion of Gata4 in Sertoli cells (SCs) of adult mice has been shown to increase permeability of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and disrupt spermatogenesis. To gain insight into the molecular underpinnings of these phenotypic abnormalities, we assessed the impact of Gata4 gene silencing in cell culture models. Microarray hybridization identified genes dysregulated by siRNA-mediated inhibition of Gata4 in TM4 cells, an immortalized mouse SC line. Differentially expressed genes were validated by quantitative RT-PCR analysis of primary cultures of Gata4(flox/flox) mouse SCs that had been subjected to cre-mediated recombination in vitro. Depletion of GATA4 in TM4 cells and primary SCs was associated with altered expression of genes involved in key facets of BTB maintenance, including tight/adherens junction formation (Tjp1, Cldn12, Vcl, Tnc, Csk) and extracellular matrix reorganization (Lamc1, Col4a1, Col4a5, Mmp10, Mmp23, Timp2). Western blotting and immunocytochemistry demonstrated reduced levels of tight junction protein-1, a prototypical tight junction protein, in GATA4-depleted cells. These changes were accompanied by a loss of morphologically recognizable junctional complexes and a decline in epithelial membrane resistance. Furthermore, Gata4 gene silencing was associated with altered expression of Hk1, Gpi1, Pfkp, Pgam1, Gls2, Pdk3, Pkd4, and Ldhb, genes regulating the production of lactate, a key nutrient that SCs provide to developing germ cells. Comprehensive metabolomic profiling demonstrated impaired lactate production in GATA4-deficient SCs. We conclude that GATA4 plays a pivotal role in the regulation of BTB function and lactate metabolism in mouse SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Schrade
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Antti Kyrönlahti
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Oyediran Akinrinade
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Marjut Pihlajoki
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Simon Fischer
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Verena Martinez Rodriguez
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Kerstin Otte
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Vidya Velagapudi
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - David B Wilson
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Markku Heikinheimo
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., M.H.), University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F., K.O.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., V.M.R., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University, St Louis, Missouri 63110
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5
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Lovelace DL, Gao Z, Mutoji K, Song YC, Ruan J, Hermann BP. The regulatory repertoire of PLZF and SALL4 in undifferentiated spermatogonia. Development 2016; 143:1893-906. [PMID: 27068105 DOI: 10.1242/dev.132761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) maintain spermatogenesis throughout adulthood through balanced self-renewal and differentiation, yet the regulatory logic of these fate decisions is poorly understood. The transcription factors Sal-like 4 (SALL4) and promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF; also known as ZBTB16) are known to be required for normal SSC function, but their targets are largely unknown. ChIP-seq in mouse THY1(+) spermatogonia identified 4176 PLZF-bound and 2696 SALL4-bound genes, including 1149 and 515 that were unique to each factor, respectively, and 1295 that were bound by both factors. PLZF and SALL4 preferentially bound gene promoters and introns, respectively. Motif analyses identified putative PLZF and SALL4 binding sequences, but rarely both at shared sites, indicating significant non-autonomous binding in any given cell. Indeed, the majority of PLZF/SALL4 shared sites contained only PLZF motifs. SALL4 also bound gene introns at sites containing motifs for the differentiation factor DMRT1. Moreover, mRNA levels for both unique and shared target genes involved in both SSC self-renewal and differentiation were suppressed following SALL4 or PLZF knockdown. Together, these data reveal the full profile of PLZF and SALL4 regulatory targets in undifferentiated spermatogonia, including SSCs, which will help elucidate mechanisms controlling the earliest cell fate decisions in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn L Lovelace
- Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Zhen Gao
- Department of Computer Science, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Kazadi Mutoji
- Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Yuntao Charlie Song
- Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Jianhua Ruan
- Department of Computer Science, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Brian P Hermann
- Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
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6
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Schrade A, Kyrönlahti A, Akinrinade O, Pihlajoki M, Häkkinen M, Fischer S, Alastalo TP, Velagapudi V, Toppari J, Wilson DB, Heikinheimo M. GATA4 is a key regulator of steroidogenesis and glycolysis in mouse Leydig cells. Endocrinology 2015; 156:1860-72. [PMID: 25668067 PMCID: PMC4398762 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factor GATA4 is expressed in somatic cells of the mammalian testis. Gene targeting studies in mice have shown that GATA4 is essential for proper differentiation and function of Sertoli cells. The role of GATA4 in Leydig cell development, however, remains controversial, because targeted mutagenesis experiments in mice have not shown a consistent phenotype, possibly due to context-dependent effects or compensatory responses. We therefore undertook a reductionist approach to study the function of GATA4 in Leydig cells. Using microarray analysis and quantitative RT-PCR, we identified a set of genes that are down-regulated or up-regulated after small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated silencing of Gata4 in the murine Leydig tumor cell line mLTC-1. These same genes were dysregulated when primary cultures of Gata4(flox/flox) adult Leydig cells were subjected to adenovirus-mediated cre-lox recombination in vitro. Among the down-regulated genes were enzymes of the androgen biosynthetic pathway (Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1, and Srd5a). Silencing of Gata4 expression in mLTC-1 cells was accompanied by reduced production of sex steroid precursors, as documented by mass spectrometric analysis. Comprehensive metabolomic analysis of GATA4-deficient mLTC-1 cells showed alteration of other metabolic pathways, notably glycolysis. GATA4-depleted mLTC-1 cells had reduced expression of glycolytic genes (Hk1, Gpi1, Pfkp, and Pgam1), lower intracellular levels of ATP, and increased extracellular levels of glucose. Our findings suggest that GATA4 plays a pivotal role in Leydig cell function and provide novel insights into metabolic regulation in this cell type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Schrade
- Children's Hospital (A.S., A.K., O.A., M.P., T.-P.A., M.H.), University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland; Institute of Biomedicine (O.A.), University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland; School of Pharmacy (M.H.), University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio 70211, Finland; Institute of Applied Biotechnology (S.F.), University of Applied Sciences Biberach, Biberach 88400, Germany; Metabolomics Unit (V.V.), Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki 00014, Helsinki, Finland; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku, Turku 20520, Finland; and Departments of Pediatrics (A.S., M.P., D.B.W., M.H.) and Developmental Biology (D.B.W.), Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
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7
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Chun S, Plunkett J, Teramo K, Muglia LJ, Fay JC. Fine-mapping an association of FSHR with preterm birth in a Finnish population. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78032. [PMID: 24205076 PMCID: PMC3812121 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth is a complex disorder defined by gestations of less than 37 weeks. While preterm birth is estimated to have a significant genetic component, relative few genes have been associated with preterm birth. Polymorphism in one such gene, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), has been associated with preterm birth in Finnish and African American mothers but not other populations. To refine the genetic association of FSHR with preterm birth we conducted a fine-mapping study at the FSHR locus in a Finnish cohort. We sequenced a total of 44 kb, including protein-coding and conserved non-coding regions, in 127 preterm and 135 term mothers. Overall, we identified 288 single nucleotide variants and 65 insertion/deletions of 1-2 bp across all subjects. While no common SNPs in protein-coding regions were associated with preterm birth, including one previously associated with timing of fertilization, multiple SNPs spanning the first and second intron showed the strongest associations. Analysis of the associated SNPs revealed that they form both a protective (OR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.25-0.93) as well as a risk (OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.08-3.39) haplotype with independent effects. In these haplotypes, two SNPs, rs12052281 and rs72822025, were predicted to disrupt ZEB1 and ELF3 transcription factor binding sites, respectively. Our results show that multiple haplotypes at FSHR are associated with preterm birth and we discuss the frequency and structure of these haplotypes outside of the Finnish population as a potential explanation for the absence of FSHR associations in some populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Chun
- Computational and Systems Biology Program, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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8
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Kyrönlahti A, Euler R, Bielinska M, Schoeller EL, Moley KH, Toppari J, Heikinheimo M, Wilson DB. GATA4 regulates Sertoli cell function and fertility in adult male mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 333:85-95. [PMID: 21172404 PMCID: PMC3026658 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2010] [Revised: 11/10/2010] [Accepted: 12/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factor GATA4 is expressed in Sertoli and Leydig cells and is required for proper development of the murine fetal testis. The role of GATA4 in adult testicular function, however, has remained unclear due to prenatal lethality of mice harboring homozygous mutations in Gata4. To characterize the function of GATA4 in the adult testis, we generated mice in which Gata4 was conditionally deleted in Sertoli cells using Cre-LoxP recombination with Amhr2-Cre. Conditional knockout (cKO) mice developed age-dependent testicular atrophy and loss of fertility, which coincided with decreases in the quantity and motility of sperm. Histological analysis demonstrated Sertoli cell vacuolation, impaired spermatogenesis, and increased permeability of the blood-testis barrier. RT-PCR analysis of cKO testes showed decreased expression of germ cell markers and increased expression of testicular injury markers. Our findings support the premise that GATA4 is a key transcriptional regulator of Sertoli cell function in adult mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Kyrönlahti
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Children s Hospital, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rosemarie Euler
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Hochschule Mannheim - University of Applied Sciences, 68163 Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Erica L. Schoeller
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
| | - Kelle H. Moley
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Markku Heikinheimo
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Children s Hospital, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - David B. Wilson
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110
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George JW, Dille EA, Heckert LL. Current concepts of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor gene regulation. Biol Reprod 2011; 84:7-17. [PMID: 20739665 PMCID: PMC4480823 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.085043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2010] [Revised: 05/04/2010] [Accepted: 08/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a pituitary glycoprotein hormone, is an integral component of the endocrine axis that regulates gonadal function and fertility. To transmit its signal, FSH must bind to its receptor (FSHR) located on Sertoli cells of the testis and granulosa cells of the ovary. Thus, both the magnitude and the target of hormone response are controlled by mechanisms that determine FSHR levels and cell-specific expression, which are supported by transcription of its gene. The present review examines the status of FSHR/Fshr gene regulation, emphasizing the importance of distal sequences in FSHR/Fshr transcription, new insights gained from the influx of genomics data and bioinformatics, and emerging trends that offer direction in deciphering the FSHR/Fshr regulatory landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitu W. George
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Elizabeth A. Dille
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Leslie L. Heckert
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
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10
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Hermann BP, Hornbaker K, Rice DA, Sawadogo M, Heckert LL. In vivo regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor by the transcription factors upstream stimulatory factor 1 and upstream stimulatory factor 2 is cell specific. Endocrinology 2008; 149:5297-306. [PMID: 18566134 PMCID: PMC2582914 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary FSH promotes pubertal timing and normal gametogenesis by binding its receptor (FSHR) located on Sertoli and granulosa cells of the testis and ovary, respectively. Studies on Fshr transcription provide substantial evidence that upstream stimulatory factor (USF) 1 and USF2, basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper proteins, regulate Fshr through an E-box within its promoter. However, despite the strong in vitro support for USF1 and USF2 in Fshr regulation, there is currently no in vivo corroborating evidence. In the present study, chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated specific binding of USF1 and USF2 to the Fshr promoter in both Sertoli and granulosa cells, in vivo. Control cells lacking Fshr expression showed no USF-Fshr promoter binding, thus correlating USF-promoter binding to gene activity. Evaluation of Fshr expression in Usf1 and Usf2 null mice further explored USF's role in Fshr transcription. Loss of either gene significantly reduced ovarian Fshr levels, whereas testis levels were unaltered. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis of USF-Fshr promoter binding in Usf-null mice indicated differences in the composition of promoter-bound USF dimers in granulosa and Sertoli cells. Promoter-bound USF dimer levels declined in granulosa cells from both null mice, despite increased USF2 levels in Usf1-null ovaries. However, compensatory increases in promoter-bound USF homodimers were evident in Usf-null Sertoli cells. In summary, this study provides the first in vivo evidence that USF1 and USF2 bind the Fshr promoter and revealed differences between Sertoli and granulosa cells in compensatory responses to USF loss and the USF dimeric composition required for Fshr transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Hermann
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA
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11
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Viger RS, Guittot SM, Anttonen M, Wilson DB, Heikinheimo M. Role of the GATA family of transcription factors in endocrine development, function, and disease. Mol Endocrinol 2008; 22:781-98. [PMID: 18174356 DOI: 10.1210/me.2007-0513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The WGATAR motif is a common nucleotide sequence found in the transcriptional regulatory regions of numerous genes. In vertebrates, these motifs are bound by one of six factors (GATA1 to GATA6) that constitute the GATA family of transcriptional regulatory proteins. Although originally considered for their roles in hematopoietic cells and the heart, GATA factors are now known to be expressed in a wide variety of tissues where they act as critical regulators of cell-specific gene expression. This includes multiple endocrine organs such as the pituitary, pancreas, adrenals, and especially the gonads. Insights into the functional roles played by GATA factors in adult organ systems have been hampered by the early embryonic lethality associated with the different Gata-null mice. This is now being overcome with the generation of tissue-specific knockout models and other knockdown strategies. These approaches, together with the increasing number of human GATA-related pathologies have greatly broadened the scope of GATA-dependent genes and, importantly, have shown that GATA action is not necessarily limited to early development. This has been particularly evident in endocrine organs where GATA factors appear to contribute to the transcription of multiple hormone-encoding genes. This review provides an overview of the GATA family of transcription factors as they relate to endocrine function and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Viger
- Ontogeny-Reproduction Research Unit, Room T1-49, CHUQ Research Centre, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada G1V 4G2.
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12
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Interferon regulatory factors are transcriptional regulators of adipogenesis. Cell Metab 2008; 7:86-94. [PMID: 18177728 PMCID: PMC2278019 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2007.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2007] [Revised: 08/03/2007] [Accepted: 11/05/2007] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We have sought to identify transcriptional pathways in adipogenesis using an integrated experimental and computational approach. Here, we employ high-throughput DNase hypersensitivity analysis to find regions of altered chromatin structure surrounding key adipocyte genes. Regions that display differentiation-dependent changes in hypersensitivity were used to predict binding sites for proteins involved in adipogenesis. A high-scoring example was a binding motif for interferon regulatory factor (IRF) family members. Expression of all nine mammalian IRF mRNAs is regulated during adipogenesis, and several bind to the identified motifs in a differentiation-dependent manner. Furthermore, several IRF proteins repress differentiation. This analysis suggests an important role for IRF proteins in adipocyte biology and demonstrates the utility of this approach in identifying cis- and trans-acting factors not previously suspected to participate in adipogenesis.
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Abstract
The corpus luteum (CL) is one of the few endocrine glands that forms from the remains of another organ and whose function and survival are limited in scope and time. The CL is the site of rapid remodeling, growth, differentiation, and death of cells originating from granulosa, theca, capillaries, and fibroblasts. The apparent raison d'etre of the CL is the production of progesterone, and all the structural and functional features of this gland are geared toward this end. Because of its unique importance for successful pregnancies, the mammals have evolved a complex series of checks and balances that maintains progesterone at appropriate levels throughout gestation. The formation, maintenance, regression, and steroidogenesis of the CL are among the most significant and closely regulated events in mammalian reproduction. During pregnancy, the fate of the CL depends on the interplay of ovarian, pituitary, and placental regulators. At the end of its life span, the CL undergoes a process of regression leading to its disappearance from the ovary and allowing the initiation of a new cycle. The generation of transgenic, knockout and knockin mice and the development of innovative technologies have revealed a novel role of several molecules in the reprogramming of granulosa cells into luteal cells and in the hormonal and molecular control of the function and demise of the CL. The current review highlights our knowledge on these key molecular events in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Stocco
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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14
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Hermann BP, Heckert LL. Transcriptional regulation of the FSH receptor: new perspectives. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007; 260-262:100-8. [PMID: 17084019 PMCID: PMC3682414 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2006.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2005] [Accepted: 11/30/2005] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The cell-surface receptor for the gonadotropin follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is expressed exclusively on Sertoli cells of the testis and granulosa cells of the ovary. FSH signal transduction through its receptor (Fshr) is critical for the timing and maintenance of normal gametogenesis in the mammalian gonad. In the 13 years since the gene encoding Fshr was first cloned, the mechanisms controlling its transcription have been extensively examined, but a clear understanding of what drives its unique cell-specificity remains elusive. Current knowledge of basal Fshr transcription highlights the role of an E-box in the proximal promoter which is bound by the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors upstream stimulatory factor 1 (Usf1) and Usf2. Recent studies utilizing knockout mice and chromatin immunoprecipitation validated the importance of Usf to Fshr transcription and demonstrated a sexually dimorphic requirement for the Usf proteins to maintain normal Fshr expression. Studies have also shown that the promoter region itself is insufficient for appropriate Fshr expression in transgenic mice, indicating Fshr transcription depends on regulatory elements that lie outside of the promoter. Identification of such elements has been propelled by recent availability of genome sequence data, which facilitated studies using comparative genomics, DNase I hypersensitivity mapping, and transgenic analysis with large fragments of DNA. This review will focus on the current understanding of transcriptional regulatory processes that control expression of rat Fshr, including recent advances from our laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leslie L. Heckert
- Corresponding Author: Address: Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160 USA Telephone: 913-588-7488 Fax: 913-588-7430
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15
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Hermann BP, Hornbaker KI, Maran RRM, Heckert LL. Distal regulatory elements are required for Fshr expression, in vivo. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007; 260-262:49-58. [PMID: 17097219 PMCID: PMC1764205 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2006.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2005] [Accepted: 01/23/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The gonadotropin follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is required for initiation and maintenance of normal gametogenesis and acts through a specific, cell-surface receptor (Fshr) present only on Sertoli and granulosa cells in the gonads. Despite extensive examination of the transcriptional mechanisms regulating Fshr, the sequences directing its expression to these cells remain unidentified. To establish the minimal region necessary for Fshr expression, we generated transgenic mice carrying a yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) that contained 413 kilobases (kb) of the rat Fshr locus (YAC60). Transgene expression, as determined by RT-PCR, was absent from immature testis and Sertoli cells, limited to germ cells of the adult testis, and never observed in the ovary. While the data is limited to only one transgenic line, it suggests that the 413kb region does not specify the normal spatiotemporal expression pattern of Fshr. Comparative genomics was used to identify potential distal regulatory elements, revealing seven regions of high evolutionary conservation (>80% identity over 100bp or more), six of which were absent from the transgene. Functional examination of the evolutionary conserved regions (ECRs) by transient transfection revealed that all of the ECRs had modest transcriptional activity in Sertoli or myoid cells with two, ECR4 and ECR5, showing differential effects in expressing and non-expressing cells. These data reveal that distal regulatory regions (outside the 413kb in YAC60) are required for appropriate temporal and spatial Fshr expression and implicate the identified ECRs in transcriptional regulation of Fshr.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Chromosome Mapping
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Yeast
- Conserved Sequence
- Evolution, Molecular
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Gene Expression Regulation/genetics
- Humans
- Integrases/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Receptors, FSH/genetics
- Recombination, Genetic
- Regulatory Sequences, Nucleic Acid/genetics
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics
- Transcription, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Hermann
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
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16
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Reza MA, Swarup S, Kini RM. Structure of two genes encoding parallel prothrombin activators in Tropidechis carinatus snake: gene duplication and recruitment of factor X gene to the venom gland. J Thromb Haemost 2007; 5:117-26. [PMID: 17239167 DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2006.02266.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proteins with new function originate through gene duplication followed by divergence. In nature, occurrence of structurally and functionally similar proteins performing highly diverse physiological roles within an organism is rare. Several Australian elapid snakes have two parallel prothrombin activating systems with distinct physiological roles. For example, in Tropidechis carinatus, trocarin D exists in the venom and acts as toxin, whereas coagulation factor (F) X exists in plasma and plays a role in hemostasis. RESULTS Here, we show that FX and the trocarin D genes are expressed in a highly tissue-specific manner in T. carinatus. To understand their origin, recruitment and evolution, we determined the complete structure of their genes. Both genes have eight exons with identical exon-intron boundaries. All the introns are 92-99% identical with the exception of intron 1, indicating a recent gene duplication event. The first intron of the trocarin D gene is also nearly identical to that of the FX gene, except for two deletions (255 and 1406 bp) and three insertions (214, 1975, and 2174 bp). The third insertion has a potential scaffold/matrix attached region. The putative promoter of the snake FX gene shares similar cis-elements compared with those of human and murine FX genes. Interestingly, the trocarin D promoter has a 264-bp insertion with core promoter sequences and cis-elements that are known to induce high-level expression. This insertion might be responsible for switching from constitutive expression of the FX gene to inducible expression of trocarin D. Thus, we named this segment as VERSE (Venom Recruitment/Switch Element). CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first molecular evidence for the recruitment of a duplicated gene for expression in venom glands by a simple insertion.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Reza
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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17
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KELLY BB, HEDLUND E, KIM C, ISHIGURO H, ISACSON O, CHIKARAISHI DM, KIM KS, FENG G. A tyrosine hydroxylase-yellow fluorescent protein knock-in reporter system labeling dopaminergic neurons reveals potential regulatory role for the first intron of the rodent tyrosine hydroxylase gene. Neuroscience 2006; 142:343-54. [PMID: 16876957 PMCID: PMC2610443 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2006] [Revised: 06/14/2006] [Accepted: 06/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. To facilitate the study of the differentiation and maintenance of this population of dopaminergic neurons both in vivo and in vitro, we generated a knock-in reporter line in which the yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) replaced the first exon and the first intron of the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) gene in one allele by homologous recombination. Expression of YFP under the direct control of the entire endogenous 5' upstream region of the TH gene was predicted to closely match expression of TH from the wild type allele, thus marking functional dopaminergic neurons. We found that YFP was expressed in dopaminergic neurons differentiated in vitro from the knock-in mouse embryonic stem cell line and in dopaminergic brain regions in knock-in mice. Surprisingly, however, YFP expression did not overlap completely with TH expression, and the degree of overlap varied in different TH-expressing brain regions. Thus, the reporter gene did not identify functional TH-expressing cells with complete accuracy. A DNaseI hypersensitivity assay revealed a cluster of hypersensitivity sites in the first intron of the TH gene, which was deleted by insertion of the reporter gene, suggesting that this region may contain cis-acting regulatory sequences. Our results suggest that the first intron of the rodent TH gene may be important for accurate expression of TH.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. B. KELLY
- Department of Neurobiology, Box 3209, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - E. HEDLUND
- Udall Parkinson’s Disease Research Center of Excellence, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, MA 02478, USA
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
- Neuroregeneration Laboratory, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - C. KIM
- Udall Parkinson’s Disease Research Center of Excellence, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, MA 02478, USA
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - H. ISHIGURO
- Carna Bioscience, KIBC 511, 5-5-2, Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Hyogo, Japan
| | - O. ISACSON
- Udall Parkinson’s Disease Research Center of Excellence, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, MA 02478, USA
- Neuroregeneration Laboratory, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - D. M. CHIKARAISHI
- Department of Neurobiology, Box 3209, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - K.-S. KIM
- Udall Parkinson’s Disease Research Center of Excellence, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, MA 02478, USA
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - G. FENG
- Department of Neurobiology, Box 3209, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Correspondence to: G. Feng, Department of Neurobiology, Box 3209, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA. Tel: +1-919-668-1657; fax: +1-919-668-1891. E-mail address: (G. Feng)
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Engemaier E, Römpler H, Schöneberg T, Schulz A. Genomic and supragenomic structure of the nucleotide-like G-protein-coupled receptor GPR34. Genomics 2005; 87:254-64. [PMID: 16338117 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2005.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2005] [Revised: 10/06/2005] [Accepted: 10/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Directed cloning approaches and large-scale sequencing of several vertebrate genomes unveiled many new members of the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, among them GPR34. Initial studies showed that GPR34 is an evolutionarily old GPCR structurally related to a group of ADP-like receptors. To gain insight into the genomic organization, regulation of expression, and supragenomic diversification of GPR34 several vertebrate species were analyzed. In contrast to the obviously intronless coding region GPR34 displays an evolutionary preserved 5' noncoding intron-exon structure. Further, an alternatively used cryptic intron was identified within the coding region, which shortens the N terminus by 47 amino acids. Ubiquitous expression of GPR34 is driven by genomic sequences upstream of at least two transcriptional start regions in mouse and rat but only one region in human. In rodents, both promoters are active in all tissues investigated, but the level of activity is tissue-specific. At the translational level, several conserved in-frame AUGs within the first 150 bp of the coding region may serve as start points for translation in human and other mammals. Combinatory mutagenesis and expression of reporter constructs confirmed these multiple translational start points and revealed a preference for the second in-frame AUG in human GPR34. Our data show that multiple translation initiation starts and alternative splicing contribute to the supragenomic diversification of GPR34.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Engemaier
- Institute of Biochemistry, Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Johannisallee 30, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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