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Cardo LF, Monzón-Sandoval J, Li Z, Webber C, Li M. Single-Cell Transcriptomics and In Vitro Lineage Tracing Reveals Differential Susceptibility of Human iPSC-Derived Midbrain Dopaminergic Neurons in a Cellular Model of Parkinson's Disease. Cells 2023; 12:2860. [PMID: 38132179 PMCID: PMC10741976 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in stem cell technologies open up new avenues for modelling development and diseases. The success of these pursuits, however, relies on the use of cells most relevant to those targeted by the disease of interest, for example, midbrain dopaminergic neurons for Parkinson's disease. In the present study, we report the generation of a human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line capable of purifying and tracing nascent midbrain dopaminergic progenitors and their differentiated progeny via the expression of a Blue Fluorescent Protein (BFP). This was achieved by CRISPR/Cas9-assisted knock-in of BFP and Cre into the safe harbour locus AAVS1 and an early midbrain dopaminergic lineage marker gene LMX1A, respectively. Immunocytochemical analysis and single-cell RNA sequencing of iPSC-derived neural cultures confirm developmental recapitulation of the human fetal midbrain and high-quality midbrain cells. By modelling Parkinson's disease-related drug toxicity using 1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), we showed a preferential reduction of BFP+ cells, a finding demonstrated independently by cell death assays and single-cell transcriptomic analysis of MPP+ treated neural cultures. Together, these results highlight the importance of disease-relevant cell types in stem cell modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia F. Cardo
- Dementia Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (L.F.C.); (J.M.-S.); (Z.L.)
| | - Jimena Monzón-Sandoval
- Dementia Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (L.F.C.); (J.M.-S.); (Z.L.)
| | - Zongze Li
- Dementia Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (L.F.C.); (J.M.-S.); (Z.L.)
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Caleb Webber
- Dementia Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (L.F.C.); (J.M.-S.); (Z.L.)
| | - Meng Li
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
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Pulcrano S, De Gregorio R, De Sanctis C, Volpicelli F, Piscitelli RM, Speranza L, Perrone-Capano C, di Porzio U, Caiazzo M, Martini A, Giacomet C, Medina D, Awatramani R, Viggiano D, Federici M, Mercuri NB, Guatteo E, Bellenchi GC. miR-218 Promotes Dopaminergic Differentiation and Controls Neuron Excitability and Neurotransmitter Release through the Regulation of a Synaptic-Related Genes Network. J Neurosci 2023; 43:8104-8125. [PMID: 37816598 PMCID: PMC10697421 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0431-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In the brain, microRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play a role in orchestrating synaptic plasticity at a higher level by acting as an additional mechanism of translational regulation, alongside the mRNA/polysome system. Despite extensive research, our understanding of the specific contribution of individual miRNA to the function of dopaminergic neurons (DAn) remains limited. By performing a dopaminergic-specific miRNA screening, we have identified miR-218 as a critical regulator of DAn activity in male and female mice. We have found that miR-218 is specifically expressed in mesencephalic DAn and is able to promote dopaminergic differentiation of embryonic stem cells and functional maturation of transdifferentiated induced DA neurons. Midbrain-specific deletion of both genes encoding for miR-218 (referred to as miR-218-1 and mir218-2) affects the expression of a cluster of synaptic-related mRNAs and alters the intrinsic excitability of DAn, as it increases instantaneous frequencies of evoked action potentials, reduces rheobase current, affects the ionic current underlying the action potential after hyperpolarization phase, and reduces dopamine efflux in response to a single electrical stimulus. Our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the involvement of miR-218 in the dopaminergic system and highlight its role as a modulator of dopaminergic transmission.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In the past decade, several miRNAs have emerged as potential regulators of synapse activity through the modulation of specific gene expression. Among these, we have identified a dopaminergic-specific miRNA, miR-218, which is able to promote dopaminergic differentiation and regulates the translation of an entire cluster of synapse related mRNAs. Deletion of miR-218 has notable effects on dopamine release and alters the intrinsic excitability of dopaminergic neurons, indicating a direct control of dopaminergic activity by miR-218.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Pulcrano
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Roberto De Gregorio
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, 80131, Italy
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine and New York Presbyterian, New York, New York 10021
| | - Claudia De Sanctis
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, 80131, Italy
- Neuropathology Brain Bank at Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029
| | - Floriana Volpicelli
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, 80131, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Piscitelli
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, 00143, Italy
| | - Luisa Speranza
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York 10461
| | - Carla Perrone-Capano
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, 80131, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Umberto di Porzio
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caiazzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CG, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandro Martini
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, 00143, Italy
| | - Cecilia Giacomet
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, 00143, Italy
| | - Diego Medina
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
- Department of Medical and Translational Science, Federico II University, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | | | - Davide Viggiano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Mauro Federici
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, 00143, Italy
| | - Nicola B Mercuri
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, 00143, Italy
- University of Tor Vergata, Department of Systems Medicine, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Ezia Guatteo
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, 00143, Italy
- Department of Motor Science and Wellness, Parthenope University, Naples, 80133, Italy
| | - Gian Carlo Bellenchi
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, 80131, Italy
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Rome, 00143, Italy
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Fjodorova M, Noakes Z, De La Fuente DC, Errington AC, Li M. Dysfunction of cAMP-Protein Kinase A-Calcium Signaling Axis in Striatal Medium Spiny Neurons: A Role in Schizophrenia and Huntington's Disease Neuropathology. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 3:418-429. [PMID: 37519464 PMCID: PMC10382711 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2022.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) are preferentially lost in Huntington's disease. Genomic studies also implicate a direct role for MSNs in schizophrenia, a psychiatric disorder known to involve cortical neuron dysfunction. It remains unknown whether the two diseases share similar MSN pathogenesis or if neuronal deficits can be attributed to cell type-dependent biological pathways. Transcription factor BCL11B, which is expressed by all MSNs and deep layer cortical neurons, was recently proposed to drive selective neurodegeneration in Huntington's disease and identified as a candidate risk gene in schizophrenia. Methods Using human stem cell-derived neurons lacking BCL11B as a model, we investigated cellular pathology in MSNs and cortical neurons in the context of these disorders. Integrative analyses between differentially expressed transcripts and published genome-wide association study datasets identified cell type-specific disease-related phenotypes. Results We uncover a role for BCL11B in calcium homeostasis in both neuronal types, while deficits in mitochondrial function and PKA (protein kinase A)-dependent calcium transients are detected only in MSNs. Moreover, BCL11B-deficient MSNs display abnormal responses to glutamate and fail to integrate dopaminergic and glutamatergic stimulation, a key feature of striatal neurons in vivo. Gene enrichment analysis reveals overrepresentation of disorder risk genes among BCL11B-regulated pathways, primarily relating to cAMP-PKA-calcium signaling axis and synaptic signaling. Conclusions Our study indicates that Huntington's disease and schizophrenia are likely to share neuronal pathophysiology where dysregulation of intracellular calcium homeostasis is found in both striatal and cortical neurons. In contrast, reduction in PKA signaling and abnormal dopamine/glutamate receptor signaling is largely specific to MSNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Fjodorova
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe Noakes
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel C. De La Fuente
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Adam C. Errington
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Meng Li
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Division of Neuroscience, School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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Endothelial Dysfunction in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032909. [PMID: 36769234 PMCID: PMC9918222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The cerebral vascular system stringently regulates cerebral blood flow (CBF). The components of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) protect the brain from pathogenic infections and harmful substances, efflux waste, and exchange substances; however, diseases develop in cases of blood vessel injuries and BBB dysregulation. Vascular pathology is concurrent with the mechanisms underlying aging, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD), which suggests its involvement in these mechanisms. Therefore, in the present study, we reviewed the role of vascular dysfunction in aging and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly AD and VaD. During the development of the aforementioned diseases, changes occur in the cerebral blood vessel morphology and local cells, which, in turn, alter CBF, fluid dynamics, and vascular integrity. Chronic vascular inflammation and blood vessel dysregulation further exacerbate vascular dysfunction. Multitudinous pathogenic processes affect the cerebrovascular system, whose dysfunction causes cognitive impairment. Knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of vascular dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases and the underlying molecular mechanisms may lead to the discovery of clinically relevant vascular biomarkers, which may facilitate vascular imaging for disease prevention and treatment.
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Lmx1a-Dependent Activation of miR-204/211 Controls the Timing of Nurr1-Mediated Dopaminergic Differentiation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136961. [PMID: 35805964 PMCID: PMC9266978 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons requires a fine temporal and spatial regulation of a very specific gene expression program. Here, we report that during mouse brain development, the microRNA (miR-) 204/211 is present at a high level in a subset of DA precursors expressing the transcription factor Lmx1a, an early determinant for DA-commitment, but not in more mature neurons expressing Th or Pitx3. By combining different in vitro model systems of DA differentiation, we show that the levels of Lmx1a influence the expression of miR-204/211. Using published transcriptomic data, we found a significant enrichment of miR-204/211 target genes in midbrain dopaminergic neurons where Lmx1a was selectively deleted at embryonic stages. We further demonstrated that miR-204/211 controls the timing of the DA differentiation by directly downregulating the expression of Nurr1, a late DA differentiation master gene. Thus, our data indicate the Lmx1a-miR-204/211-Nurr1 axis as a key component in the cascade of events that ultimately lead to mature midbrain dopaminergic neurons differentiation and point to miR-204/211 as the molecular switch regulating the timing of Nurr1 expression.
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Nagao K, Kato C, Ikemoto Y, Motojima T, Fujii K, Umezawa A, Miyashita T. PTCH1-null induced pluripotent stem cells exclusively differentiate into immature ectodermal cells with large areas of medulloblastoma-like tissue. Discov Oncol 2022; 13:36. [PMID: 35618979 PMCID: PMC9135936 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-022-00498-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) is an autosomal dominant disorder with an increased incidence of tumors, such as basal cell carcinomas and medulloblastomas. The PTCH1 gene, responsible for NBCCS, suppresses the hedgehog signaling pathway, which is recognized as one of the important pathways in tumorigenesis and, thus, is a therapeutic target in cancer. In the present study, we generated PTCH1-/- induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from NBCCS patient-derived iPSCs (PTCH1+/-) by gene editing. The proliferation of PTCH1-/- iPSCs was accelerated due to the activation of the hedgehog signaling pathway. When PTCH1-/- iPSCs were subcutaneously injected into immunodeficient mice, the resulting teratomas almost exclusively contained immature ectodermal lineage cells expressing medulloblastoma markers, and the percentages of the area occupied by medulloblastoma-like tissue were larger in PTCH1-/- teratomas than in PTCH1+/- teratomas. In contrast, in PTCH1+/+ teratomas, medulloblastoma-like tissue positive for all of these medulloblastoma markers was not observed. The present results indicate the importance of PTCH1 in medulloblastoma formation and the suitability of these gene-edited iPSCs and PTCH1-/- teratomas as models for the formation of tumors, such as medulloblastomas and Hh-related tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuaki Nagao
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, 252-0374, Japan.
| | - Chise Kato
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, 252-0374, Japan
| | - Yu Ikemoto
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, 252-0374, Japan
- Department of Reproductive Biology, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Toshino Motojima
- Department of Pediatrics, Motojima General Hospital, Gunnma, 373-0033, Japan
| | - Katsunori Fujii
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, 286-8686, Japan
| | - Akihiro Umezawa
- Department of Reproductive Biology, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Miyashita
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, 252-0374, Japan
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7
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Mohamed NV, Sirois J, Ramamurthy J, Mathur M, Lépine P, Deneault E, Maussion G, Nicouleau M, Chen CXQ, Abdian N, Soubannier V, Cai E, Nami H, Thomas RA, Wen D, Tabatabaei M, Beitel LK, Singh Dolt K, Karamchandani J, Stratton JA, Kunath T, Fon EA, Durcan TM. Midbrain organoids with an SNCA gene triplication model key features of synucleinopathy. Brain Commun 2021; 3:fcab223. [PMID: 34632384 PMCID: PMC8495137 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcab223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
SNCA, the first gene associated with Parkinson's disease, encodes the α-synuclein protein, the predominant component within pathological inclusions termed Lewy bodies. The presence of Lewy bodies is one of the classical hallmarks found in the brain of patients with Parkinson's disease, and Lewy bodies have also been observed in patients with other synucleinopathies. However, the study of α-synuclein pathology in cells has relied largely on two-dimensional culture models, which typically lack the cellular diversity and complex spatial environment found in the brain. Here, to address this gap, we use three-dimensional midbrain organoids, differentiated from human-induced pluripotent stem cells derived from patients carrying a triplication of the SNCA gene and from CRISPR/Cas9 corrected isogenic control iPSCs. These human midbrain organoids recapitulate key features of α-synuclein pathology observed in the brains of patients with synucleinopathies. In particular, we find that SNCA triplication human midbrain organoids express elevated levels of α-synuclein and exhibit an age-dependent increase in α-synuclein aggregation, manifested by the presence of both oligomeric and phosphorylated forms of α-synuclein. These phosphorylated α-synuclein aggregates were found in both neurons and glial cells and their time-dependent accumulation correlated with a selective reduction in dopaminergic neuron numbers. Thus, human midbrain organoids from patients carrying SNCA gene multiplication can reliably model key pathological features of Parkinson's disease and provide a powerful system to study the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen-Vi Mohamed
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Julien Sirois
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Janani Ramamurthy
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Meghna Mathur
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Paula Lépine
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Eric Deneault
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Gilles Maussion
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Michael Nicouleau
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Carol X-Q Chen
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Narges Abdian
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Vincent Soubannier
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Eddie Cai
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Harris Nami
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Rhalena A Thomas
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Dingke Wen
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610063, China
| | - Mahdieh Tabatabaei
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada.,C-BIG Biorepository (C-BIG), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Lenore K Beitel
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Karamjit Singh Dolt
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Jason Karamchandani
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada.,C-BIG Biorepository (C-BIG), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Jo Anne Stratton
- Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Tilo Kunath
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Edward A Fon
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Thomas M Durcan
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
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Functional Roles of FGF Signaling in Early Development of Vertebrate Embryos. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082148. [PMID: 34440915 PMCID: PMC8391977 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) comprise a large family of growth factors, regulating diverse biological processes including cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Each FGF binds to a set of FGF receptors to initiate certain intracellular signaling molecules. Accumulated evidence suggests that in early development and adult state of vertebrates, FGFs also play exclusive and context dependent roles. Although FGFs have been the focus of research for therapeutic approaches in cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome, in this review, we mainly focused on their role in germ layer specification and axis patterning during early vertebrate embryogenesis. We discussed the functional roles of FGFs and their interacting partners as part of the gene regulatory network for germ layer specification, dorsal-ventral (DV), and anterior-posterior (AP) patterning. Finally, we briefly reviewed the regulatory molecules and pharmacological agents discovered that may allow modulation of FGF signaling in research.
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Mohamed NV, Lépine P, Lacalle-Aurioles M, Sirois J, Mathur M, Reintsch W, Beitel LK, Fon EA, Durcan TM. Microfabricated disk technology: rapid scale up in midbrain organoid generation. Methods 2021; 203:465-477. [PMID: 34314827 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2021.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
By providing a three-dimensional in vitro culture system with key features of the substantia nigra region in the brain, 3D neuronal organoids derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide living neuronal tissue resembling the midbrain region of the brain. However, a major limitation of conventional brain organoid culture is that it is often labor-intensive, requiring highly specialized personnel for moderate throughput. Additionally, the methods published for long-term cultures require time-consuming maintenance to generate brain organoids in large numbers. With the increasing need for human midbrain organoids (hMOs) to better understand and model Parkinson's disease (PD) in a dish, there is a need to implement new workflows and methods to both generate and maintain hMOs, while minimizing batch to batch variation. In this study, we developed a method with microfabricated disks to scale up the generation of hMOs. This opens up the possibility to generate larger numbers of hMOs, in a manner that minimizes the amount of labor required, while decreasing variability and maintaining the viability of these hMOs over time. Taken together, producing hMOs in this manner opens up the potential for these to be used to further PD studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen-Vi Mohamed
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada.
| | - Paula Lépine
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - María Lacalle-Aurioles
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Julien Sirois
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Meghna Mathur
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Wolfgang Reintsch
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Lenore K Beitel
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Edward A Fon
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Thomas M Durcan
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada.
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10
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Yoo JE, Lee DR, Park S, Shin HR, Lee KG, Kim DS, Jo MY, Eom JH, Cho MS, Hwang DY, Kim DW. Trophoblast glycoprotein is a marker for efficient sorting of ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic precursors derived from human pluripotent stem cells. NPJ PARKINSONS DISEASE 2021; 7:61. [PMID: 34282148 PMCID: PMC8289854 DOI: 10.1038/s41531-021-00204-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Successful cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease (PD) requires large numbers of homogeneous ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic (vmDA) precursors. Enrichment of vmDA precursors via cell sorting is required to ensure high safety and efficacy of the cell therapy. Here, using LMX1A-eGFP knock-in reporter human embryonic stem cells, we discovered a novel surface antigen, trophoblast glycoprotein (TPBG), which was preferentially expressed in vmDA precursors. TPBG-targeted cell sorting enriched FOXA2+LMX1A+ vmDA precursors and helped attain efficient behavioral recovery of rodent PD models with increased numbers of TH+, NURR1+, and PITX3+ vmDA neurons in the grafts. Additionally, fewer proliferating cells were detected in TPBG+ cell-derived grafts than in TPBG− cell-derived grafts. Our approach is an efficient way to obtain enriched bona fide vmDA precursors, which could open a new avenue for effective PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Eun Yoo
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dongjin R Lee
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sanghyun Park
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Severance Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye-Rim Shin
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kun Gu Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Dae-Sung Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | | | | | - Dong-Youn Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.
| | - Dong-Wook Kim
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea. .,Severance Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea. .,Brain Korea 21 PLUS Program for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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11
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Corti S, Bonjean R, Legier T, Rattier D, Melon C, Salin P, Toso EA, Kyba M, Kerkerian-Le Goff L, Maina F, Dono R. Enhanced differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells toward the midbrain dopaminergic neuron lineage through GLYPICAN-4 downregulation. Stem Cells Transl Med 2021; 10:725-742. [PMID: 33528918 PMCID: PMC8046045 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Enhancing the differentiation potential of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) into disease‐relevant cell types is instrumental for their widespread application in medicine. Here, we show that hiPSCs downregulated for the signaling modulator GLYPICAN‐4 (GPC4) acquire a new biological state characterized by increased hiPSC differentiation capabilities toward ventral midbrain dopaminergic (VMDA) neuron progenitors. This biological trait emerges both in vitro, upon exposing cells to VMDA neuronal differentiation signals, and in vivo, even when transplanting hiPSCs at the extreme conditions of floor‐plate stage in rat brains. Moreover, it is compatible with the overall neuronal maturation process toward acquisition of substantia nigra neuron identity. HiPSCs with downregulated GPC4 also retain self‐renewal and pluripotency in stemness conditions, in vitro, while losing tumorigenesis in vivo as assessed by flank xenografts. In conclusion, our results highlight GPC4 downregulation as a powerful approach to enhance generation of VMDA neurons. Outcomes may contribute to establish hiPSC lines suitable for translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Corti
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Remi Bonjean
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Thomas Legier
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Diane Rattier
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Christophe Melon
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Salin
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Erik A Toso
- Lillehei Heart Institute and Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael Kyba
- Lillehei Heart Institute and Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lydia Kerkerian-Le Goff
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Flavio Maina
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Rosanna Dono
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Developmental Biology Institute of Marseille (IBDM), Turing Center for Living Systems, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
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12
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Gong J, Meng T, Yang J, Hu N, Zhao H, Tian T. Three-dimensional in vitro tissue culture models of brain organoids. Exp Neurol 2021; 339:113619. [PMID: 33497645 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Brain organoids are three-dimensional self-assembled structures that are derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). They can recapitulate the spatiotemporal organization and function of the brain, presenting a robust system for in vitro modeling of brain development, evolution, and diseases. Significant advances in biomaterials, microscale technologies, gene editing technologies, and stem cell biology have enabled the construction of human specific brain structures in vitro. However, the limitations of long-term culture, necrosis, and hypoxic cores in different culture models obstruct brain organoid growth and survival. The in vitro models should facilitate oxygen and nutrient absorption, which is essential to generate complex organoids and provides a biomimetic microenvironment for modeling human brain organogenesis and human diseases. This review aims to highlight the progress in the culture devices of brain organoids, including dish, bioreactor, and organ-on-a-chip models. With the modulation of bioactive molecules and biomaterials, the generated organoids recapitulate the key features of the human brain in a more reproducible and hyperoxic fashion. Furthermore, an outlook for future preclinical studies and the genetic modifications of brain organoids is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gong
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Tianyue Meng
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Ning Hu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Hezhao Zhao
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Tian Tian
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.
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13
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Xiao Z, Lei T, Liu Y, Yang Y, Bi W, Du H. The potential therapy with dental tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells in Parkinson's disease. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:5. [PMID: 33407864 PMCID: PMC7789713 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01957-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide, is caused by the loss of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons in the substantia nigra resulting in a series of motor or non-motor disorders. Current treatment methods are unable to stop the progression of PD and may bring certain side effects. Cell replacement therapy has brought new hope for the treatment of PD. Recently, human dental tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells have received extensive attention. Currently, dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are considered to have strong potential for the treatment of these neurodegenerative diseases. These cells are considered to be ideal cell sources for the treatment of PD on account of their unique characteristics, such as neural crest origin, immune rejection, and lack of ethical issues. In this review, we briefly describe the research investigating cell therapy for PD and discuss the application and progress of DPSCs and SHED in the treatment of PD. This review offers significant and comprehensive guidance for further clinical research on PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangzhuang Xiao
- 112 Lab, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Tong Lei
- 112 Lab, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Kangyanbao (Beijing) Stem Cell Technology Co., Ltd, Beijing, 102600, China
| | - Yanjie Yang
- 112 Lab, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Wangyu Bi
- 112 Lab, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Hongwu Du
- 112 Lab, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China.
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14
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Jang SE, Qiu L, Chan LL, Tan EK, Zeng L. Current Status of Stem Cell-Derived Therapies for Parkinson's Disease: From Cell Assessment and Imaging Modalities to Clinical Trials. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:558532. [PMID: 33177975 PMCID: PMC7596695 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.558532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Curative therapies or treatments reversing the progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD) have attracted considerable interest in the last few decades. PD is characterized by the gradual loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons and decreased striatal dopamine levels. Current challenges include optimizing neuroprotective strategies, developing personalized drug therapy, and minimizing side effects from the long-term prescription of pharmacological drugs used to relieve short-term motor symptoms. Transplantation of DA cells into PD patients’ brains to replace degenerated DA has the potential to change the treatment paradigm. Herein, we provide updates on current progress in stem cell-derived DA neuron transplantation as a therapeutic alternative for PD. We briefly highlight cell sources for transplantation and focus on cell assessment methods such as identification of genetic markers, single-cell sequencing, and imaging modalities used to access cell survival and function. More importantly, we summarize clinical reports of patients who have undergone cell-derived transplantation in PD to better perceive lessons that can be drawn from past and present clinical outcomes. Modifying factors include (1) source of the stem cells, (2) quality of the stem cells, (3) age of the patient, (4) stage of disease progression at the time of cell therapy, (5) surgical technique/practices, and (6) the use of immunosuppression. We await the outcomes of joint efforts in clinical trials around the world such as NYSTEM and CiRA to further guide us in the selection of the most suitable parameters for cell-based neurotransplantation in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se Eun Jang
- Neural Stem Cell Research Lab, Research Department, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lifeng Qiu
- Neural Stem Cell Research Lab, Research Department, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ling Ling Chan
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Neuroscience & Behavioral Disorders Program, Duke University and National University of Singapore (DUKE-NUS), Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eng-King Tan
- Neuroscience & Behavioral Disorders Program, Duke University and National University of Singapore (DUKE-NUS), Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital Campus, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Li Zeng
- Neural Stem Cell Research Lab, Research Department, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Neuroscience & Behavioral Disorders Program, Duke University and National University of Singapore (DUKE-NUS), Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Novena Campus, Singapore, Singapore
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15
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Jin T, Gu J, Xia H, Chen H, Xu X, Li Z, Yue Y, Gui Y. Differential Expression of microRNA Profiles and Wnt Signals in Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes During Dopaminergic Neuron Differentiation. DNA Cell Biol 2020; 39:2143-2153. [PMID: 33064572 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2020.5931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of secreted exosomes during dopaminergic (DA) neuron differentiation is still unknown. To investigate the roles of exosomes in DA neuron fate specification, we profiled exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) during DA neuron differentiation of epiblast-derived stem cells (EpiSCs). There were 26 miRNAs differentially expressed (relative fold >2, p < 0.05) in EpiSC-derived exosomes at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 days of DA epiblast differentiation. Among them, 23 exosomic miRNAs were significantly increased, including miR-124, miR-132, miR-133b, miR-218, miR-9, miR-34b, miR-34c, and miR-135a2, while three exosomic miRNAs (miR-214, miR-7a, and miR-302b) were decreased, when compared with control samples. Bioinformatics analysis by DIANA-mirPath demonstrated that extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, signaling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells, FoxO signaling pathway, DA synapse, Wnt signaling pathway, GABAergic synapse, and neurotrophin signaling pathway were significantly enriched in DA differentiation-related miRNA signature (all p-values <0.012). Furthermore, messenger RNAs for nine DA neuronal markers tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), Nr4a2, Pitx3, Drd1a, Lmx1a, Lmx1b, Foxa1, Dmrt5, and Slc18a2 were significantly increased expressed over time in exosomes derived from differentiated EpiSCs. Interestingly, adding with exosomes derived from EpiSC induction experiment resulted in a twofold increase of TH-positive neurons production (35% vs. 17%, p < 0.01) during DA neuronal differentiation from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). In summary, our results suggested exosomal miRNAs are potential regulators of DA neuron differentiation. More importantly, EpiSC-derived exosomes could promote the generation of DA neuron differentiation from ESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jin
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiachen Gu
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongbo Xia
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Fuyang, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huimin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Xiaomin Xu
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zongshan Li
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yumei Yue
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yaxing Gui
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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16
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Griffin SM, Pickard MR, Hawkins CP, Williams AC, Fricker RA. Nicotinamide restricts neural precursor proliferation to enhance catecholaminergic neuronal subtype differentiation from mouse embryonic stem cells. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233477. [PMID: 32925933 PMCID: PMC7489539 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that a strong relationship exists between brain regenerative therapies and nutrition. Early life nutrition plays an important role during embryonic brain development, and there are clear consequences to an imbalance in nutritional factors on both the production and survival of mature neuronal populations and the infant’s risk of diseases in later life. Our research and that of others suggest that vitamins play a fundamental role in the formation of neurons and their survival. There is a growing body of evidence that nicotinamide, the water-soluble amide form of vitamin B3, is implicated in the conversion of pluripotent stem cells to clinically relevant cells for regenerative therapies. This study investigated the ability of nicotinamide to promote the development of mature catecholaminergic neuronal populations (associated with Parkinson’s disease) from mouse embryonic stem cells, as well as investigating the underlying mechanisms of nicotinamide’s action. Nicotinamide selectively enhanced the production of tyrosine hydroxylase-expressing neurons and serotonergic neurons from mouse embryonic stem cell cultures (Sox1GFP knock-in 46C cell line). A 5-Ethynyl-2´-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay ascertained that nicotinamide, when added in the initial phase, reduced cell proliferation. Nicotinamide drove tyrosine hydroxylase-expressing neuron differentiation as effectively as an established cocktail of signalling factors, reducing the proliferation of neural progenitors and accelerating neuronal maturation, neurite outgrowth and neurotransmitter expression. These novel findings show that nicotinamide enhanced and enriched catecholaminergic differentiation and inhibited cell proliferation by directing cell cycle arrest in mouse embryonic stem cell cultures, thus driving a critical neural proliferation-to-differentiation switch from neural progenitors to neurons. Further research into the role of vitamin metabolites in embryogenesis will significantly advance cell-based regenerative medicine, and help realize their role as crucial developmental signalling molecules in brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Síle M. Griffin
- Keele Medical School and Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, England, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Mark R. Pickard
- Chester Medical School, University Centre Shrewsbury, University of Chester, Shrewsbury, England, United Kingdom
| | - Clive P. Hawkins
- Keele Medical School and Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, England, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian C. Williams
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, England, United Kingdom
| | - Rosemary A. Fricker
- Keele Medical School and Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, England, United Kingdom
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17
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Gorlin syndrome-induced pluripotent stem cells form medulloblastoma with loss of heterozygosity in PTCH1. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:9935-9947. [PMID: 32436863 PMCID: PMC7288908 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gorlin syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant hereditary disease with a high incidence of tumors such as basal cell carcinoma and medulloblastoma. Disease-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and an animal model have been used to analyze disease pathogenesis. In this study, we generated iPSCs derived from fibroblasts of four patients with Gorlin syndrome (Gln-iPSCs) with heterozygous mutations of the PTCH1 gene. Gln-iPSCs from the four patients developed into medulloblastoma, a manifestation of Gorlin syndrome, in 100% (four out of four), of teratomas after implantation into immunodeficient mice, but none (0/584) of the other iPSC-teratomas did so. One of the medulloblastomas showed loss of heterozygosity in the PTCH1 gene while the benign teratoma, i.e. the non-medulloblastoma portion, did not, indicating a close clinical correlation between tumorigenesis in Gorlin syndrome patients and Gln-iPSCs.
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18
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Stathakos P, Jiménez-Moreno N, Crompton LA, Nistor PA, Badger JL, Barbuti PA, Kerrigan TL, Randall AD, Caldwell MA, Lane JD. A monolayer hiPSC culture system for autophagy/mitophagy studies in human dopaminergic neurons. Autophagy 2020; 17:855-871. [PMID: 32286126 PMCID: PMC8078667 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2020.1739441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Macroautophagy/autophagy cytoplasmic quality control pathways are required during neural development and are critical for the maintenance of functional neuronal populations in the adult brain. Robust evidence now exists that declining neuronal autophagy pathways contribute to human neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson disease (PD). Reliable and relevant human neuronal model systems are therefore needed to understand the biology of disease-vulnerable neural populations, to decipher the underlying causes of neurodegenerative disease, and to develop assays to test therapeutic interventions in vitro. Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) neural model systems can meet this demand: they provide a renewable source of material for differentiation into regional neuronal sub-types for functional assays; they can be expanded to provide a platform for screening, and they can potentially be optimized for transplantation/neurorestorative therapy. So far, however, hiPSC differentiation protocols for the generation of ventral midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mDANs) – the predominant neuronal sub-type afflicted in PD – have been somewhat restricted by poor efficiency and/or suitability for functional and/or imaging-based in vitro assays. Here, we describe a reliable, monolayer differentiation protocol for the rapid and reproducible production of high numbers of mDANs from hiPSC in a format that is amenable for autophagy/mitophagy research. We characterize these cells with respect to neuronal differentiation and macroautophagy capability and describe qualitative and quantitative assays for the study of autophagy and mitophagy in these important cells. Abbreviations: AA: ascorbic acid; ATG: autophagy-related; BDNF: brain derived neurotrophic factor; CCCP: carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone; dbcAMP: dibutyryl cAMP; DAN: dopaminergic neuron; DAPI: 4ʹ,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole; DAPT: N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-L-alanyl]-sphenylglycine; DLG4/PSD95: discs large MAGUK scaffold protein 4; DMEM: Dulbecco’s modified eagle’s medium; EB: embryoid body; ECAR: extracellular acidification rate; EGF: epidermal growth factor; FACS: fluorescence-activated cell sorting; FCCP: arbonyl cyanide p-triflouromethoxyphenylhydrazone; FGF: fibroblast growth factor; GAPDH: glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; GDNF: glia cell derived neurotrophic factor; hiPSC: human induced pluripotent stem cell; LAMP2A: lysosomal associated membrane protein 2A; LT-R: LysoTracker Red; MAP1LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; mDAN: midbrain dopaminergic neuron; MEF: mouse embryonic fibroblast; MT-GR: MitoTracker Green; MT-R: MitoTracker Red; NAS2: normal SNCA2; NEM: neuroprogenitor expansion media; NR4A2/NURR1: nuclear receptor subfamily group A member 2; OA: oligomycin and antimycin A; OCR: oxygen consumption rate; PD: Parkinson disease; SHH: sonic hedgehog signaling molecule; SNCA/α-synuclein: synuclein alpha; TH: tyrosine hydroxylase; VTN: vitronectin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Stathakos
- Cell Biology Laboratories, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Lucy A Crompton
- Cell Biology Laboratories, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul A Nistor
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jennifer L Badger
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter A Barbuti
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Talitha L Kerrigan
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratory, Exeter, UK.,Dementia Research Group, Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew D Randall
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratory, Exeter, UK
| | - Maeve A Caldwell
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jon D Lane
- Cell Biology Laboratories, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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19
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Precious SV, Smith GA, Heuer A, Jaeger I, Lane EL, Dunnett SB, Li M, Kelly CM, Rosser AE. Dopaminergic Progenitors Derived From Epiblast Stem Cells Function Similarly to Primary VM-Derived Progenitors When Transplanted Into a Parkinson's Disease Model. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:312. [PMID: 32317925 PMCID: PMC7154167 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00312] [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: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural transplantation in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) offers to replace cells lost during the progression of the disease process. Primary fetal ventral mesencephalon (VM), the origin of bona fide midbrain dopaminergic (DAergic) precursors, is currently the gold standard source of cells for transplantation in PD. However, the use of tissue from this source raises ethical and logistical constraints necessitating the need for alternative supplies of donor cells. The requirement of any alternative donor cell source is to have the capability to generate authentic mature DAergic neurons, which could be utilized in cell-replacement strategies. Mouse pluripotent stem cells can efficiently generate electrochemically mature midbrain DAergic precursors in vitro using a stepwise control of FGF signaling. Here, we have compared DAergic transplants derived from two progenitor cell sources in an allograft system: mouse epiblast stem cells (EpiSC) and primary fetal mouse VM tissue. Cells were transplanted into the striatum of 6-OHDA lesioned mice pre-treated with L-DOPA. Drug-induced rotations, a number of motor tests and drug-induced abnormal involuntary movements (AIMs) were assessed. Functional improvements were demonstrated post-transplantation in some behavioral tests, with no difference in graft volume or the number of TH immuno-positive cells in the grafts of the two transplant groups. L-DOPA-induced AIMs and amphetamine-induced AIMs were observed in both transplant groups, with no differences in rate or severity between the two groups. Collectively, in this mouse-to-mouse allograft system, we report no significant differences in the functional ability between the gold standard primary VM derived and pluripotent stem cell-derived DAergic transplants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie V Precious
- Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Gaynor A Smith
- School of Medicine, UK Dementia Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Heuer
- Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ines Jaeger
- Stem Cell Neurogenesis Group, School of Medicine and Biosciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Emma L Lane
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen B Dunnett
- Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Meng Li
- Stem Cell Neurogenesis Group, School of Medicine and Biosciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Claire M Kelly
- School of Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Anne E Rosser
- Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Wales Brain Repair and Intracranial Neurotherapeutics Unit, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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20
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Punovuori K, Migueles RP, Malaguti M, Blin G, Macleod KG, Carragher NO, Pieters T, van Roy F, Stemmler MP, Lowell S. N-cadherin stabilises neural identity by dampening anti-neural signals. Development 2019; 146:dev.183269. [PMID: 31601548 PMCID: PMC6857587 DOI: 10.1242/dev.183269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A switch from E- to N-cadherin regulates the transition from pluripotency to neural identity, but the mechanism by which cadherins regulate differentiation was previously unknown. Here, we show that the acquisition of N-cadherin stabilises neural identity by dampening anti-neural signals. We use quantitative image analysis to show that N-cadherin promotes neural differentiation independently of its effects on cell cohesiveness. We reveal that cadherin switching diminishes the level of nuclear β-catenin, and that N-cadherin also dampens FGF activity and consequently stabilises neural fate. Finally, we compare the timing of cadherin switching and differentiation in vivo and in vitro, and find that this process becomes dysregulated during in vitro differentiation. We propose that N-cadherin helps to propagate a stable neural identity throughout the emerging neuroepithelium, and that dysregulation of this process contributes to asynchronous differentiation in culture. Summary: As pluripotent cells undergo neural differentiation they swap E-cadherin for N-cadherin. This switch in adhesion molecules modulates signalling in order to facilitate the differentiation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Punovuori
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Rosa P Migueles
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Mattias Malaguti
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Guillaume Blin
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Kenneth G Macleod
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - Neil O Carragher
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XR, UK
| | - Tim Pieters
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University; Inflammation Research Center, VIB; Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Frans van Roy
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University; Inflammation Research Center, VIB; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Marc P Stemmler
- Department of Experimental Medicine I, Nikolaus-Fiebiger Center for Molecular Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen D-91054, Germany
| | - Sally Lowell
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
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21
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Ben Youssef S, Brisson G, Doucet-Beaupré H, Castonguay AM, Gora C, Amri M, Lévesque M. Neuroprotective benefits of grape seed and skin extract in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Nutr Neurosci 2019; 24:197-211. [PMID: 31131731 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2019.1616435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, and it involves oxidative stress. Our goal was to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of Vitis vinifera red grape seed and skin extract (GSSE) in a model of Parkinson's disease. GSSE is very rich in phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, catechins and stilbenes, which are present in the pulp, seeds, and leaves of the fruit. GSSE is known for its antioxidant properties and has shown beneficial effects against oxidative injury in different organs, such as the kidneys, liver, heart and brain. In this study, we revealed the neuroprotective effect of GSSE on midbrain dopaminergic neurons both in vitro and in vivo. We used the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), which induces oxidative damage and mimics the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons observed in Parkinson's disease. We found that GSSE was effective in protecting dopamine neurons from 6-OHDA toxicity by reducing apoptosis, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation. Furthermore, we found that GSSE treatment efficiently protected against neuronal loss and improved motor function in an in vivo 6-OHDA model of Parkinson's disease (PD). Altogether, our results show that GSSE acts at multiple levels to protect dopamine neurons from degeneration in a model of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Ben Youssef
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.,CERVO Brain Research Centre, Québec, Canada.,Laboratory of Functional Neurophysiology and Pathology, Research Unit UR/11ES09, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Guillaume Brisson
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.,CERVO Brain Research Centre, Québec, Canada
| | - Hélène Doucet-Beaupré
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.,CERVO Brain Research Centre, Québec, Canada
| | - Anne-Marie Castonguay
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Charles Gora
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.,CERVO Brain Research Centre, Québec, Canada
| | - Mohamed Amri
- Laboratory of Functional Neurophysiology and Pathology, Research Unit UR/11ES09, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Martin Lévesque
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.,CERVO Brain Research Centre, Québec, Canada
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22
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Pharmacological Transdifferentiation of Human Nasal Olfactory Stem Cells into Dopaminergic Neurons. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:2945435. [PMID: 31236114 PMCID: PMC6545791 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2945435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The discovery of novel drugs for neurodegenerative diseases has been a real challenge over the last decades. The development of patient- and/or disease-specific in vitro models represents a powerful strategy for the development and validation of lead candidates in preclinical settings. The implementation of a reliable platform modeling dopaminergic neurons will be an asset in the study of dopamine-associated pathologies such as Parkinson's disease. Disease models based on cell reprogramming strategies, using either human-induced pluripotent stem cells or transcription factor-mediated transdifferentiation, are among the most investigated strategies. However, multipotent adult stem cells remain of high interest to devise direct conversion protocols and establish in vitro models that could bypass certain limitations associated with reprogramming strategies. Here, we report the development of a six-step chemically defined protocol that drives the transdifferentiation of human nasal olfactory stem cells into dopaminergic neurons. Morphological changes were progressively accompanied by modifications matching transcript and protein dopaminergic signatures such as LIM homeobox transcription factor 1 alpha (LMX1A), LMX1B, and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression, within 42 days of differentiation. Phenotypic changes were confirmed by the production of dopamine from differentiated neurons. This new strategy paves the way to develop more disease-relevant models by establishing reprogramming-free patient-specific dopaminergic cell models for drug screening and/or target validation for neurodegenerative diseases.
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23
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Brodski C, Blaess S, Partanen J, Prakash N. Crosstalk of Intercellular Signaling Pathways in the Generation of Midbrain Dopaminergic Neurons In Vivo and from Stem Cells. J Dev Biol 2019; 7:jdb7010003. [PMID: 30650592 PMCID: PMC6473842 DOI: 10.3390/jdb7010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine-synthesizing neurons located in the mammalian ventral midbrain are at the center stage of biomedical research due to their involvement in severe human neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, most prominently Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The induction of midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons depends on two important signaling centers of the mammalian embryo: the ventral midline or floor plate (FP) of the neural tube, and the isthmic organizer (IsO) at the mid-/hindbrain boundary (MHB). Cells located within and close to the FP secrete sonic hedgehog (SHH), and members of the wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT1/5A), as well as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family. The IsO cells secrete WNT1 and the fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8). Accordingly, the FGF8, SHH, WNT, and BMP signaling pathways play crucial roles during the development of the mDA neurons in the mammalian embryo. Moreover, these morphogens are essential for the generation of stem cell-derived mDA neurons, which are critical for the modeling, drug screening, and cell replacement therapy of PD. This review summarizes our current knowledge about the functions and crosstalk of these signaling pathways in mammalian mDA neuron development in vivo and their applications in stem cell-based paradigms for the efficient derivation of these neurons in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Brodski
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel.
| | - Sandra Blaess
- Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, University of Bonn Medical Center, 53127 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Juha Partanen
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, FIN00014-University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 56, Viikinkaari 9, FIN-00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Nilima Prakash
- Department Hamm 2, Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences, 59063 Hamm, Germany.
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24
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Stathakos P, Jimenez-Moreno N, Crompton L, Nistor P, Caldwell MA, Lane JD. Imaging Autophagy in hiPSC-Derived Midbrain Dopaminergic Neuronal Cultures for Parkinson's Disease Research. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1880:257-280. [PMID: 30610703 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8873-0_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
To appreciate the positive or negative impact of autophagy during the initiation and progression of human diseases, the isolation or de novo generation of appropriate cell types is required to support focused in vitro assays. In human neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD), specific subsets of acutely sensitive neurons become susceptible to stress-associated operational decline and eventual cell death, emphasizing the need for functional studies in those vulnerable groups of neurons. In PD, a class of dopaminergic neurons in the ventral midbrain (mDANs) is affected. To study these, human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have emerged as a valuable tool, as they enable the establishment and study of mDAN biology in vitro. In this chapter, we describe a stepwise protocol for the generation of mDANs from hiPSCs using a monolayer culture system. We then outline how imaging-based autophagy assessment methodologies can be applied to these neurons, thereby providing a detailed account of the application of imaging-based autophagy assays to human iPSC-derived mDANs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Stathakos
- Cell Biology Laboratories, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Lucy Crompton
- Cell Biology Laboratories, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul Nistor
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Maeve A Caldwell
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jon D Lane
- Cell Biology Laboratories, School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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25
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Sonntag KC, Song B, Lee N, Jung JH, Cha Y, Leblanc P, Neff C, Kong SW, Carter BS, Schweitzer J, Kim KS. Pluripotent stem cell-based therapy for Parkinson's disease: Current status and future prospects. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 168:1-20. [PMID: 29653250 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders, which affects about 0.3% of the general population. As the population in the developed world ages, this creates an escalating burden on society both in economic terms and in quality of life for these patients and for the families that support them. Although currently available pharmacological or surgical treatments may significantly improve the quality of life of many patients with PD, these are symptomatic treatments that do not slow or stop the progressive course of the disease. Because motor impairments in PD largely result from loss of midbrain dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, PD has long been considered to be one of the most promising target diseases for cell-based therapy. Indeed, numerous clinical and preclinical studies using fetal cell transplantation have provided proof of concept that cell replacement therapy may be a viable therapeutic approach for PD. However, the use of human fetal cells as a standardized therapeutic regimen has been fraught with fundamental ethical, practical, and clinical issues, prompting scientists to explore alternative cell sources. Based on groundbreaking establishments of human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, these human pluripotent stem cells have been the subject of extensive research, leading to tremendous advancement in our understanding of these novel classes of stem cells and promising great potential for regenerative medicine. In this review, we discuss the prospects and challenges of human pluripotent stem cell-based cell therapy for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-C Sonntag
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, United States; Laboratory for Translational Research on Neurodegeneration, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States; Program for Neuropsychiatric Research, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States
| | - Bin Song
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, United States; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Program in Neuroscience and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States
| | - Nayeon Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, United States; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Program in Neuroscience and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States
| | - Jin Hyuk Jung
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, United States; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Program in Neuroscience and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States
| | - Young Cha
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, United States; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Program in Neuroscience and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States
| | - Pierre Leblanc
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, United States; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Program in Neuroscience and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States
| | - Carolyn Neff
- Kaiser Permanente Medical Group, Irvine, CA, 92618, United States
| | - Sek Won Kong
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, United States; Computational Health Informatics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Bob S Carter
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, United States
| | - Jeffrey Schweitzer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, United States.
| | - Kwang-Soo Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, United States; Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Program in Neuroscience and Harvard Stem Cell Institute, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, United States.
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26
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De Gregorio R, Pulcrano S, De Sanctis C, Volpicelli F, Guatteo E, von Oerthel L, Latagliata EC, Esposito R, Piscitelli RM, Perrone-Capano C, Costa V, Greco D, Puglisi-Allegra S, Smidt MP, di Porzio U, Caiazzo M, Mercuri NB, Li M, Bellenchi GC. miR-34b/c Regulates Wnt1 and Enhances Mesencephalic Dopaminergic Neuron Differentiation. Stem Cell Reports 2018. [PMID: 29526736 PMCID: PMC5998209 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of dopaminergic neurons requires concerted action of morphogens and transcription factors acting in a precise and well-defined time window. Very little is known about the potential role of microRNA in these events. By performing a microRNA-mRNA paired microarray screening, we identified miR-34b/c among the most upregulated microRNAs during dopaminergic differentiation. Interestingly, miR-34b/c modulates Wnt1 expression, promotes cell cycle exit, and induces dopaminergic differentiation. When combined with transcription factors ASCL1 and NURR1, miR-34b/c doubled the yield of transdifferentiated fibroblasts into dopaminergic neurons. Induced dopaminergic (iDA) cells synthesize dopamine and show spontaneous electrical activity, reversibly blocked by tetrodotoxin, consistent with the electrophysiological properties featured by brain dopaminergic neurons. Our findings point to a role for miR-34b/c in neuronal commitment and highlight the potential of exploiting its synergy with key transcription factors in enhancing in vitro generation of dopaminergic neurons. miR-34b/c is enriched in Pitx3-GFP+ mDA neurons miR-34b/c targets Wnt1-3′ UTR miR-34b/c is expressed during dopaminergic differentiation of mESCs miR-34b/c enhances fibroblast transdifferentiation into functional iDA neurons
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto De Gregorio
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pulcrano
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy; Deparment of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia De Sanctis
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy; Neuromed IRCCS, 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Floriana Volpicelli
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy; Deparment of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ezia Guatteo
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, 00143 Rome, Italy; Parthenope University, Department of Motor Science and Wellness, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Lars von Oerthel
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1090 GE Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Roberta Esposito
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Piscitelli
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, 00143 Rome, Italy; Parthenope University, Department of Motor Science and Wellness, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Perrone-Capano
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy; Deparment of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Valerio Costa
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Greco
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Marten P Smidt
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1090 GE Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Umberto di Porzio
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caiazzo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, 00143 Rome, Italy; University of Tor Vergata, Department of Systems Medicine, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Meng Li
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine and School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Gian Carlo Bellenchi
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy.
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27
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Jiang XW, Zhang BQ, Qiao L, Liu L, Wang XW, Yu WH. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid extracted from Boswellia serrata promotes Schwann cell proliferation and sciatic nerve function recovery. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:484-491. [PMID: 29623934 PMCID: PMC5900512 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.228732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Frankincense can promote blood circulation. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a small molecule with anti-inflammatory properties that is derived from Boswellia serrata. Here, we hypothesized that it may promote regeneration of injured sciatic nerve. To address this hypothesis, we established a rat model of sciatic nerve injury using a nerve clamping method. Rats were administered AKBA once every 2 days at doses of 1.5, 3, and 6 mg/kg by intraperitoneal injection for 30 days from the 1st day after injury. Sciatic nerve function was evaluated using the sciatic functional index. Degree of muscle atrophy was measured using the triceps surae muscle Cuadros index. Neuropathological changes were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Western blot analysis was used to detect expression of phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (p-ERK1/2) in injured nerve. S100 immunoreactivity in injured nerve was detected by immunohistochemistry. In vivo experiments showed that 3 and 6 mg/kg AKBA significantly increased sciatic nerve index, Cuadros index of triceps muscle, p-ERK1/2 expression, and S100 immunoreactivity in injured sciatic nerve of sciatic nerve injury model rats. Furthermore, for in vitro experiments, Schwann cells were treated with AKBA at 0-20 μg/mL. Proliferation of Schwann cells was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 colorimetry assay. The results showed that 2 μg/mL AKBA is the optimal therapeutic concentration. In addition, ERK phosphorylation levels increased following 2 μg/mL AKBA treatment. In the presence of the ERK1/2 inhibitor, PD98059 (2.5 μL/mL), the AKBA-induced increase in p-ERK1/2 protein expression was partially abrogated. In conclusion, our study shows that AKBA promotes peripheral nerve regeneration with ERK protein phosphorylation playing a key role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen Jiang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Helongjiang Province, China
| | - Bin-Qing Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Helongjiang Province, China
| | - Lu Qiao
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Helongjiang Province, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Helongjiang Province, China
| | - Xue-Wei Wang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Helongjiang Province, China
| | - Wen-Hui Yu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Helongjiang Province, China
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28
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Ferrai C, Torlai Triglia E, Risner-Janiczek JR, Rito T, Rackham OJ, de Santiago I, Kukalev A, Nicodemi M, Akalin A, Li M, Ungless MA, Pombo A. RNA polymerase II primes Polycomb-repressed developmental genes throughout terminal neuronal differentiation. Mol Syst Biol 2017; 13:946. [PMID: 29038337 PMCID: PMC5658700 DOI: 10.15252/msb.20177754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycomb repression in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is tightly associated with promoter co‐occupancy of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) which is thought to prime genes for activation during early development. However, it is unknown whether RNAPII poising is a general feature of Polycomb repression, or is lost during differentiation. Here, we map the genome‐wide occupancy of RNAPII and Polycomb from pluripotent ESCs to non‐dividing functional dopaminergic neurons. We find that poised RNAPII complexes are ubiquitously present at Polycomb‐repressed genes at all stages of neuronal differentiation. We observe both loss and acquisition of RNAPII and Polycomb at specific groups of genes reflecting their silencing or activation. Strikingly, RNAPII remains poised at transcription factor genes which are silenced in neurons through Polycomb repression, and have major roles in specifying other, non‐neuronal lineages. We conclude that RNAPII poising is intrinsically associated with Polycomb repression throughout differentiation. Our work suggests that the tight interplay between RNAPII poising and Polycomb repression not only instructs promoter state transitions, but also may enable promoter plasticity in differentiated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Ferrai
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany .,Genome Function, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (previously MRC Clinical Sciences Centre), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Elena Torlai Triglia
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jessica R Risner-Janiczek
- Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Stem Cell Neurogenesis, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (previously MRC Clinical Sciences Centre), London, UK.,Neurophysiology Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (previously MRC Clinical Sciences Centre), London, UK
| | - Tiago Rito
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Inês de Santiago
- Genome Function, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (previously MRC Clinical Sciences Centre), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Alexander Kukalev
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mario Nicodemi
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Napoli Federico II and INFN Napoli, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo, Naples, Italy
| | - Altuna Akalin
- Scientific Bioinformatics Platform, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Meng Li
- Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Stem Cell Neurogenesis, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (previously MRC Clinical Sciences Centre), London, UK
| | - Mark A Ungless
- Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK .,Neurophysiology Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (previously MRC Clinical Sciences Centre), London, UK
| | - Ana Pombo
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany .,Genome Function, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (previously MRC Clinical Sciences Centre), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Institute for Biology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Germany
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29
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Ngô HM, Zhou Y, Lorenzi H, Wang K, Kim TK, Zhou Y, El Bissati K, Mui E, Fraczek L, Rajagopala SV, Roberts CW, Henriquez FL, Montpetit A, Blackwell JM, Jamieson SE, Wheeler K, Begeman IJ, Naranjo-Galvis C, Alliey-Rodriguez N, Davis RG, Soroceanu L, Cobbs C, Steindler DA, Boyer K, Noble AG, Swisher CN, Heydemann PT, Rabiah P, Withers S, Soteropoulos P, Hood L, McLeod R. Toxoplasma Modulates Signature Pathways of Human Epilepsy, Neurodegeneration & Cancer. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11496. [PMID: 28904337 PMCID: PMC5597608 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10675-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
One third of humans are infected lifelong with the brain-dwelling, protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. Approximately fifteen million of these have congenital toxoplasmosis. Although neurobehavioral disease is associated with seropositivity, causality is unproven. To better understand what this parasite does to human brains, we performed a comprehensive systems analysis of the infected brain: We identified susceptibility genes for congenital toxoplasmosis in our cohort of infected humans and found these genes are expressed in human brain. Transcriptomic and quantitative proteomic analyses of infected human, primary, neuronal stem and monocytic cells revealed effects on neurodevelopment and plasticity in neural, immune, and endocrine networks. These findings were supported by identification of protein and miRNA biomarkers in sera of ill children reflecting brain damage and T. gondii infection. These data were deconvoluted using three systems biology approaches: "Orbital-deconvolution" elucidated upstream, regulatory pathways interconnecting human susceptibility genes, biomarkers, proteomes, and transcriptomes. "Cluster-deconvolution" revealed visual protein-protein interaction clusters involved in processes affecting brain functions and circuitry, including lipid metabolism, leukocyte migration and olfaction. Finally, "disease-deconvolution" identified associations between the parasite-brain interactions and epilepsy, movement disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. This "reconstruction-deconvolution" logic provides templates of progenitor cells' potentiating effects, and components affecting human brain parasitism and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huân M Ngô
- The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.,Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.,BrainMicro LLC, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Ying Zhou
- The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | | | - Kai Wang
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Taek-Kyun Kim
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Yong Zhou
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | | | - Ernest Mui
- The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | | | | | | | - Fiona L Henriquez
- The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.,FLH, IBEHR School of Science and Sport, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, PA1 2BE, UK
| | - Alexandre Montpetit
- Genome Quebec, Montréal, QC H3B 1S6, Canada; McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Jenefer M Blackwell
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, United Kingdom.,Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Sarra E Jamieson
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Charles Cobbs
- California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, 94114, USA
| | - Dennis A Steindler
- JM USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Kenneth Boyer
- Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - A Gwendolyn Noble
- Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Charles N Swisher
- Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | | | - Peter Rabiah
- Northshore University Health System, Evanston, IL, 60201, USA
| | | | | | - Leroy Hood
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Rima McLeod
- The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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30
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Tamburini C, Li M. Understanding neurodevelopmental disorders using human pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. Brain Pathol 2017; 27:508-517. [PMID: 28585386 PMCID: PMC8029066 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Research into psychiatric disorders has long been hindered by the lack of appropriate models. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer an unlimited source of patient-specific cells, which in principle can be differentiated into all disease-relevant somatic cell types to create in vitro models of the disorder of interest. Here, neuronal differentiation protocols available for this purpose and the current progress on iPSCs-based models of schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders and bipolar disorder were reviewed. We also discuss the impact of the recently developed CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing tool in the disease modeling field. Genetically engineered mutation of disease risk alleles in well characterized reference "control" hPSCs or correction of disease risk variants in patient iPSCs has been used as a powerful means to establish causality of the identified cellular pathology. Together, iPSC reprogramming and CRISPR/CAS9 genome editing technology have already significantly contributed to our understanding of the developmental origin of some major psychiatric disorders. The challenge ahead is the identification of shared mechanisms in their etiology, which will ultimately be relevant to the development of new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tamburini
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine and School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUnited Kingdom
| | - Meng Li
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine and School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUnited Kingdom
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31
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The doublesex-related Dmrta2 safeguards neural progenitor maintenance involving transcriptional regulation of Hes1. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E5599-E5607. [PMID: 28655839 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1705186114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms that determine whether a neural progenitor cell (NPC) reenters the cell cycle or exits and differentiates are pivotal for generating cells in the correct numbers and diverse types, and thus dictate proper brain development. Combining gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches in an embryonic stem cell-derived cortical differentiation model, we report that doublesex- and mab-3-related transcription factor a2 (Dmrta2, also known as Dmrt5) plays an important role in maintaining NPCs in the cell cycle. Temporally controlled expression of transgenic Dmrta2 in NPCs suppresses differentiation without affecting their neurogenic competence. In contrast, Dmrta2 knockout accelerates the cell cycle exit and differentiation into postmitotic neurons of NPCs derived from embryonic stem cells and in Emx1-cre conditional mutant mice. Dmrta2 function is linked to the regulation of Hes1 and other proneural genes, as demonstrated by genome-wide RNA-seq and direct binding of Dmrta2 to the Hes1 genomic locus. Moreover, transient Hes1 expression rescues precocious neurogenesis in Dmrta2 knockout NPCs. Our study thus establishes a link between Dmrta2 modulation of Hes1 expression and the maintenance of NPCs during cortical development.
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32
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Nadadhur AG, Emperador Melero J, Meijer M, Schut D, Jacobs G, Li KW, Hjorth JJJ, Meredith RM, Toonen RF, Van Kesteren RE, Smit AB, Verhage M, Heine VM. Multi-level characterization of balanced inhibitory-excitatory cortical neuron network derived from human pluripotent stem cells. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178533. [PMID: 28586384 PMCID: PMC5460818 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Generation of neuronal cultures from induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) serve the studies of human brain disorders. However we lack neuronal networks with balanced excitatory-inhibitory activities, which are suitable for single cell analysis. We generated low-density networks of hPSC-derived GABAergic and glutamatergic cortical neurons. We used two different co-culture models with astrocytes. We show that these cultures have balanced excitatory-inhibitory synaptic identities using confocal microscopy, electrophysiological recordings, calcium imaging and mRNA analysis. These simple and robust protocols offer the opportunity for single-cell to multi-level analysis of patient hiPSC-derived cortical excitatory-inhibitory networks; thereby creating advanced tools to study disease mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya G. Nadadhur
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Javier Emperador Melero
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke Meijer
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Desiree Schut
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerbren Jacobs
- Department of Pediatrics / Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ka Wan Li
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J. J. Johannes Hjorth
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rhiannon M. Meredith
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud F. Toonen
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald E. Van Kesteren
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - August B. Smit
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vivi M. Heine
- Department of Pediatrics / Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Complex Trait Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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33
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Li M, Rosser AE. Pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons for transplantation in Huntington's disease. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2017; 230:263-281. [PMID: 28552232 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2017.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells present a potentially unlimited source of cells for regenerative medicine, providing that they can be efficiently and accurately differentiated to the target cell type. The principle target cell for Huntington's disease is the striatal medium spiny neuron. In this chapter, we review strategies for directing medium spiny neuron differentiation, based on known developmental principles, and we discuss the remaining hurdles on the road to engineering such cells for therapeutic application in Huntington's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- Cardiff University Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom; Cardiff University School of Biosciences, Cardiff, United Kingdom.
| | - Anne E Rosser
- Cardiff University Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom; Cardiff University School of Biosciences, Cardiff, United Kingdom.
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34
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Kirkeby A, Nolbrant S, Tiklova K, Heuer A, Kee N, Cardoso T, Ottosson DR, Lelos MJ, Rifes P, Dunnett SB, Grealish S, Perlmann T, Parmar M. Predictive Markers Guide Differentiation to Improve Graft Outcome in Clinical Translation of hESC-Based Therapy for Parkinson's Disease. Cell Stem Cell 2017; 20:135-148. [PMID: 28094017 PMCID: PMC5222722 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2016.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell treatments for neurodegenerative diseases are expected to reach clinical trials soon. Most of the approaches currently under development involve transplantation of immature progenitors that subsequently undergo phenotypic and functional maturation in vivo, and predicting the long-term graft outcome already at the progenitor stage remains a challenge. Here, we took an unbiased approach to identify predictive markers expressed in dopamine neuron progenitors that correlate with graft outcome in an animal model of Parkinson's disease through gene expression analysis of >30 batches of grafted human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived progenitors. We found that many of the commonly used markers did not accurately predict in vivo subtype-specific maturation. Instead, we identified a specific set of markers associated with the caudal midbrain that correlate with high dopaminergic yield after transplantation in vivo. Using these markers, we developed a good manufacturing practice (GMP) differentiation protocol for highly efficient and reproducible production of transplantable dopamine progenitors from hESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnete Kirkeby
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Human Neural Development, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Sara Nolbrant
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Katarina Tiklova
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Branch, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andreas Heuer
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Nigel Kee
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Branch, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tiago Cardoso
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Daniella Rylander Ottosson
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Mariah J Lelos
- Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3AX, South Wales, UK
| | - Pedro Rifes
- Human Neural Development, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Stephen B Dunnett
- Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3AX, South Wales, UK
| | - Shane Grealish
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Thomas Perlmann
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Branch, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Parmar
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; Wallenberg Neuroscience Center and Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden.
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35
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Kee N, Volakakis N, Kirkeby A, Dahl L, Storvall H, Nolbrant S, Lahti L, Björklund ÅK, Gillberg L, Joodmardi E, Sandberg R, Parmar M, Perlmann T. Single-Cell Analysis Reveals a Close Relationship between Differentiating Dopamine and Subthalamic Nucleus Neuronal Lineages. Cell Stem Cell 2016; 20:29-40. [PMID: 28094018 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Stem cell engineering and grafting of mesencephalic dopamine (mesDA) neurons is a promising strategy for brain repair in Parkinson's disease (PD). Refinement of differentiation protocols to optimize this approach will require deeper understanding of mesDA neuron development. Here, we studied this process using transcriptome-wide single-cell RNA sequencing of mouse neural progenitors expressing the mesDA neuron determinant Lmx1a. This approach resolved the differentiation of mesDA and neighboring neuronal lineages and revealed a remarkably close relationship between developing mesDA and subthalamic nucleus (STN) neurons, while also highlighting a distinct transcription factor set that can distinguish between them. While previous hESC mesDA differentiation protocols have relied on markers that are shared between the two lineages, we found that application of these highlighted markers can help to refine current stem cell engineering protocols, increasing the proportion of appropriately patterned mesDA progenitors. Our results, therefore, have important implications for cell replacement therapy in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel Kee
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | - Agnete Kirkeby
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund Stem Cell Centre, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Lina Dahl
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helena Storvall
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sara Nolbrant
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund Stem Cell Centre, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Laura Lahti
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Åsa K Björklund
- Department for Cell and Molecular Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Linda Gillberg
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eliza Joodmardi
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rickard Sandberg
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Parmar
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund Stem Cell Centre, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Thomas Perlmann
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Box 240, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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36
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Gennet N, Tamburini C, Nan X, Li M. FolR1: a novel cell surface marker for isolating midbrain dopamine neural progenitors and nascent dopamine neurons. Sci Rep 2016; 6:32488. [PMID: 27580818 PMCID: PMC5007511 DOI: 10.1038/srep32488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell type-specific surface markers offer a powerful tool for purifying defined cell types for restorative therapies and drug screenings. Midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mesDA) are the nerve cells preferentially lost in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients. Clinical trials of transplantation of fetal neural precursors suggest that cell therapy may offer a cure for this devastating neurological disease. Many lines of preclinical studies demonstrate that neural progenitors committed to dopaminergic fate survive and integrate better than postmitotic DA neurons. We show that the folate-receptor 1 (FolR1), a GPI-anchored cell surface molecule, specifically marks mesDA neural progenitors and immature mesDA neurons. FolR1 expression superimposes with Lmx1a, a bona-fide mesDA lineage marker, during the active phase of mesDA neurogenesis from E9.5 to E14.5 during mouse development, as well as in ESC-derived mesDA lineage. FolR1(+) neural progenitors can be isolated by FACS or magnetic sorting (MAC) which give rise to dopamine neurons expressing TH and Pitx3, whilst FolR1 negative cells generate non-dopaminergic neurons and glia cells. This study identifies FolR1 as a new cell surface marker selectively expressed in mesDA progenitors in vivo and in vitro and that can be used to enrich in vitro differentiated TH neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Gennet
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine and school of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24, 4HQ, UK
| | - Claudia Tamburini
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine and school of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24, 4HQ, UK
| | - Xinsheng Nan
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine and school of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24, 4HQ, UK
| | - Meng Li
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine and school of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24, 4HQ, UK
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37
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Zhang W, Jiao B, Zhou M, Zhou T, Shen L. Modeling Alzheimer's Disease with Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Current Challenges and Future Concerns. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:7828049. [PMID: 27313629 PMCID: PMC4895035 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7828049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Revised: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent type of dementia and its pathology is characterized by deposition of extracellular β-amyloid plaques, intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, and extensive neuron loss. While only a few familial AD cases are due to mutations in three causative genes (APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2), the ultimate cause behind the rest of the cases, called sporadic AD, remains unknown. Current animal and cellular models of human AD, which are based on the Aβ and tau hypotheses only, partially resemble the familial AD. As a result, there is a pressing need for the development of new models providing insights into the pathological mechanisms of AD and for the discovery of ways to treat or delay the onset of the disease. Recent preclinical research suggests that stem cells can be used to model AD. Indeed, human induced pluripotent stem cells can be differentiated into disease-relevant cell types that recapitulate the unique genome of a sporadic AD patient or family member. In this review, we will first summarize the current research findings on the genetic and pathological mechanisms of AD. We will then highlight the existing induced pluripotent stem cell models of AD and, lastly, discuss the potential clinical applications in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Bin Jiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Miaojin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Tao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Lu Shen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
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38
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Salemi S, Baktash P, Rajaei B, Noori M, Amini H, Shamsara M, Massumi M. Efficient generation of dopaminergic-like neurons by overexpression of Nurr1 and Pitx3 in mouse induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Neurosci Lett 2016; 626:126-34. [PMID: 27208834 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder, in which the nigro-striatal Dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons are selectively lost. Treatment of neurodegenerative diseases with Pluripotent Stem Cells (PSCs) is a big interest in cell therapy. Here, we used induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) expressing two master Dopaminergic (DAergic) transcription factors, i.e. Nurr1 and Pitx3, to generate functional in vitro DAergic-like neurons. After establishment and characterization of Doxycycline-inducible iPSCs from mouse fibroblasts, the cells were transduced by NURR1- and PITX3-harboring lentiviruses. The Nurr1/Pitx3 -iPSCs were differentiated through a five-stage protocol to generate DAergic-like neurons. The results confirmed the efficient expression of DAergic neuron markers in the end of protocol. Beside, the generated cells could exclusively synthesize and secrete Dopamine in response to secretagogues. In conclusion, overexpression of Nurr1 and Pitx3 in iPSCs could efficiently program iPSCs into functional DAergic-like neurons. This finding may have an impact on future stem cell therapy of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salemeh Salemi
- National Center for Transgenic Mouse Research, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parvaneh Baktash
- National Center for Transgenic Mouse Research, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Rajaei
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehri Noori
- National Center for Transgenic Mouse Research, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Amini
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuroscience Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Shamsara
- National Center for Transgenic Mouse Research, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Massumi
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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39
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Neural Conversion and Patterning of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells: A Developmental Perspective. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:8291260. [PMID: 27069483 PMCID: PMC4812494 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8291260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the reprogramming of adult human terminally differentiated somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) became a reality in 2007, only eight years have passed. Yet over this relatively short period, myriad experiments have revolutionized previous stem cell dogmata. The tremendous promise of hiPSC technology for regenerative medicine has fuelled rising expectations from both the public and scientific communities alike. In order to effectively harness hiPSCs to uncover fundamental mechanisms of disease, it is imperative to first understand the developmental neurobiology underpinning their lineage restriction choices in order to predictably manipulate cell fate to desired derivatives. Significant progress in developmental biology provides an invaluable resource for rationalising directed differentiation of hiPSCs to cellular derivatives of the nervous system. In this paper we begin by reviewing core developmental concepts underlying neural induction in order to provide context for how such insights have guided reductionist in vitro models of neural conversion from hiPSCs. We then discuss early factors relevant in neural patterning, again drawing upon crucial knowledge gained from developmental neurobiological studies. We conclude by discussing open questions relating to these concepts and how their resolution might serve to strengthen the promise of pluripotent stem cells in regenerative medicine.
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40
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Metzakopian E, Bouhali K, Alvarez-Saavedra M, Whitsett JA, Picketts DJ, Ang SL. Genome-wide characterisation of Foxa1 binding sites reveals several mechanisms for regulating neuronal differentiation in midbrain dopamine cells. Development 2016; 142:1315-24. [PMID: 25804738 PMCID: PMC4378246 DOI: 10.1242/dev.115808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Midbrain dopamine neuronal progenitors develop into heterogeneous subgroups of neurons, such as substantia nigra pars compacta, ventral tegmental area and retrorubal field, that regulate motor control, motivated and addictive behaviours. The development of midbrain dopamine neurons has been extensively studied, and these studies indicate that complex cross-regulatory interactions between extrinsic and intrinsic molecules regulate a precise temporal and spatial programme of neurogenesis in midbrain dopamine progenitors. To elucidate direct molecular interactions between multiple regulatory factors during neuronal differentiation in mice, we characterised genome-wide binding sites of the forkhead/winged helix transcription factor Foxa1, which functions redundantly with Foxa2 to regulate the differentiation of mDA neurons. Interestingly, our studies identified a rostral brain floor plate Neurog2 enhancer that requires direct input from Otx2, Foxa1, Foxa2 and an E-box transcription factor for its transcriptional activity. Furthermore, the chromatin remodelling factor Smarca1 was shown to function downstream of Foxa1 and Foxa2 to regulate differentiation from immature to mature midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Our genome-wide Foxa1-bound cis-regulatory sequences from ChIP-Seq and Foxa1/2 candidate target genes from RNA-Seq analyses of embryonic midbrain dopamine cells also provide an excellent resource for probing mechanistic insights into gene regulatory networks involved in the differentiation of midbrain dopamine neurons. Summary: ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq experiments identify novel molecular mechanisms underlying midbrain dopaminergic neuron production downstream of Foxa1 and Foxa2 during mouse neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamal Bouhali
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NIMR, The Ridgeway, London NW7 1AA, UK
| | - Matías Alvarez-Saavedra
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8L6 Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8M5
| | - Jeffrey A Whitsett
- Division of Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - David J Picketts
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8L6 Departments of Biochemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8M5
| | - Siew-Lan Ang
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NIMR, The Ridgeway, London NW7 1AA, UK
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Dickkopf 3 Promotes the Differentiation of a Rostrolateral Midbrain Dopaminergic Neuronal Subset In Vivo and from Pluripotent Stem Cells In Vitro in the Mouse. J Neurosci 2015; 35:13385-401. [PMID: 26424886 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1722-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Wingless-related MMTV integration site 1 (WNT1)/β-catenin signaling plays a crucial role in the generation of mesodiencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons, including the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) subpopulation that preferentially degenerates in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the precise functions of WNT1/β-catenin signaling in this context remain unknown. Stem cell-based regenerative (transplantation) therapies for PD have not been implemented widely in the clinical context, among other reasons because of the heterogeneity and incomplete differentiation of the transplanted cells. This might result in tumor formation and poor integration of the transplanted cells into the dopaminergic circuitry of the brain. Dickkopf 3 (DKK3) is a secreted glycoprotein implicated in the modulation of WNT/β-catenin signaling. Using mutant mice, primary ventral midbrain cells, and pluripotent stem cells, we show that DKK3 is necessary and sufficient for the correct differentiation of a rostrolateral mdDA neuron subset. Dkk3 transcription in the murine ventral midbrain coincides with the onset of mdDA neurogenesis and is required for the activation and/or maintenance of LMX1A (LIM homeobox transcription factor 1α) and PITX3 (paired-like homeodomain transcription factor 3) expression in the corresponding mdDA precursor subset, without affecting the proliferation or specification of their progenitors. Notably, the treatment of differentiating pluripotent stem cells with recombinant DKK3 and WNT1 proteins also increases the proportion of mdDA neurons with molecular SNc DA cell characteristics in these cultures. The specific effects of DKK3 on the differentiation of rostrolateral mdDA neurons in the murine ventral midbrain, together with its known prosurvival and anti-tumorigenic properties, make it a good candidate for the improvement of regenerative and neuroprotective strategies in the treatment of PD. Significance statement: We show here that Dickkopf 3 (DKK3), a secreted modulator of WNT (Wingless-related MMTV integration site)/β-catenin signaling, is both necessary and sufficient for the proper differentiation and survival of a rostrolateral (parabrachial pigmented nucleus and dorsomedial substantia nigra pars compacta) mesodiencephalic dopaminergic neuron subset, using Dkk3 mutant mice and murine primary ventral midbrain and pluripotent stem cells. The progressive loss of these dopamine-producing mesodiencephalic neurons is a hallmark of human Parkinson's disease, which can up to now not be halted by clinical treatments of this disease. Thus, the soluble DKK3 protein might be a promising new agent for the improvement of current protocols for the directed differentiation of pluripotent and multipotent stem cells into mesodiencephalic dopaminergic neurons and for the promotion of their survival in situ.
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Fraser J, Ferrai C, Chiariello AM, Schueler M, Rito T, Laudanno G, Barbieri M, Moore BL, Kraemer DCA, Aitken S, Xie SQ, Morris KJ, Itoh M, Kawaji H, Jaeger I, Hayashizaki Y, Carninci P, Forrest ARR, Semple CA, Dostie J, Pombo A, Nicodemi M. Hierarchical folding and reorganization of chromosomes are linked to transcriptional changes in cellular differentiation. Mol Syst Biol 2015; 11:852. [PMID: 26700852 PMCID: PMC4704492 DOI: 10.15252/msb.20156492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian chromosomes fold into arrays of megabase‐sized topologically associating domains (TADs), which are arranged into compartments spanning multiple megabases of genomic DNA. TADs have internal substructures that are often cell type specific, but their higher‐order organization remains elusive. Here, we investigate TAD higher‐order interactions with Hi‐C through neuronal differentiation and show that they form a hierarchy of domains‐within‐domains (metaTADs) extending across genomic scales up to the range of entire chromosomes. We find that TAD interactions are well captured by tree‐like, hierarchical structures irrespective of cell type. metaTAD tree structures correlate with genetic, epigenomic and expression features, and structural tree rearrangements during differentiation are linked to transcriptional state changes. Using polymer modelling, we demonstrate that hierarchical folding promotes efficient chromatin packaging without the loss of contact specificity, highlighting a role far beyond the simple need for packing efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Fraser
- Department of Biochemistry, Goodman Cancer Centre, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Carmelo Ferrai
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany Genome Function Group, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial College London Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Andrea M Chiariello
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Napoli Federico II INFN Napoli CNR-SPIN Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo, Naples, Italy
| | - Markus Schueler
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany
| | - Tiago Rito
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany
| | - Giovanni Laudanno
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Napoli Federico II INFN Napoli CNR-SPIN Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariano Barbieri
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany
| | - Benjamin L Moore
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC IGMM University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Dorothee C A Kraemer
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany
| | - Stuart Aitken
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC IGMM University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sheila Q Xie
- Genome Function Group, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial College London Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Kelly J Morris
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany Genome Function Group, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial College London Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Masayoshi Itoh
- RIKEN Preventive Medicine and Diagnosis Innovation Program, Wako Saitama, Japan Division of Genomic Technologies, RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Yokohama Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hideya Kawaji
- RIKEN Preventive Medicine and Diagnosis Innovation Program, Wako Saitama, Japan Division of Genomic Technologies, RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Yokohama Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Ines Jaeger
- Stem Cell Neurogenesis Group, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial College London Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | | | - Piero Carninci
- Division of Genomic Technologies, RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Yokohama Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Alistair R R Forrest
- Division of Genomic Technologies, RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Yokohama Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Colin A Semple
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC IGMM University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Josée Dostie
- Department of Biochemistry, Goodman Cancer Centre, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ana Pombo
- Epigenetic Regulation and Chromatin Architecture Group, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany Genome Function Group, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial College London Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Mario Nicodemi
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Napoli Federico II INFN Napoli CNR-SPIN Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo, Naples, Italy
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Dyer C, Blanc E, Stanley RJ, Knight RD. Dissecting the role of Wnt signaling and its interactions with FGF signaling during midbrain neurogenesis. NEUROGENESIS 2015; 2:e1057313. [PMID: 27606327 PMCID: PMC4973611 DOI: 10.1080/23262133.2015.1057313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Interactions between FGF and Wnt/ bcat signaling control development of the midbrain. The nature of this interaction and how these regulate patterning, growth and differentiation is less clear, as it has not been possible to temporally dissect the effects of one pathway relative to the other. We have employed pharmacological and genetic tools to probe the temporal and spatial roles of FGF and Wnt in controlling the specification of early midbrain neurons. We identify a β-catenin (bcat) independent role for GSK-3 in modulating FGF activity and hence neuronal patterning. This function is complicated by an overlap with bcat-dependent regulation of FGF signaling, through the regulation of sprouty4. Additionally we reveal how attenuation of Axin protein function can promote fluctuating levels of bcat activity that are dependent on FGF activity. This highlights the complex nature of the interactions between FGF and Wnt/ bcat and reveals that they act at multiple levels to control each others activity in the midbrain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlene Dyer
- Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology; King's College London ; London, UK
| | - Eric Blanc
- MRC Centre for Developmental Neurobiology; King's College London ; London, UK
| | - Rob J Stanley
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology; University College London; London, UK; CoMPLEX; University College London; London, UK
| | - Robert D Knight
- Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology; King's College London ; London, UK
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Hawkins K, Keramari M, Soncin F, Segal JM, Mohamet L, Miazga N, Ritson S, Bobola N, Merry CLR, Ward CM. Novel cell lines isolated from mouse embryonic stem cells exhibiting de novo methylation of the E-cadherin promoter. Stem Cells 2015; 32:2869-79. [PMID: 25074424 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and epiblast stem cells represent the naïve and primed pluripotent states, respectively. These cells self-renew via distinct signaling pathways and can transition between the two states in the presence of appropriate growth factors. Manipulation of signaling pathways has therefore allowed the isolation of novel pluripotent cell types such as Fibroblast growth factor, Activin and BIO-derived stem cells and IESCs. However, the effect of cell seeding density on pluripotency remains unexplored. In this study, we have examined whether mESCs can epigenetically regulate E-cadherin to enter a primed-like state in response to low cell seeding density. We show that low density seeding in the absence of leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) induces decreased apoptosis and maintenance of pluripotency via Activin/Nodal, concomitant with loss of E-cadherin, Signal transducer and activator of transcription phosphorylation, and chimera-forming ability. These cells, E-cadherin negative proliferating stem cells (ENPSCs) can be reverted to a naïve phenotype by addition of LIF or forced E-cadherin expression. However, prolonged culture of ENPSCs without LIF leads to methylation of the E-cadherin promoter (ENPSC(M)), which cannot be reversed by LIF supplementation, and increased histone H3K27 and decreased H3K4 trimethylation. Transcript analysis of ENPSC(M) revealed a primed-like phenotype and their differentiation leads to enrichment of neuroectoderm cells. The generation of ENPSCs is similar to tumorigenesis as ENPSCs exhibit transcript alterations associated with neoplasia, hyperplasia, carcinoma, and metastasis. We therefore describe a novel cell model to elucidate the role of E-cadherin in pluripotency and to investigate epigenetic regulation of this gene during mESC differentiation and tumor metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hawkins
- Stem Cell Research Group, The University of Manchester, Core Technology Facility, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Velasco I, Salazar P, Giorgetti A, Ramos-Mejía V, Castaño J, Romero-Moya D, Menendez P. Concise review: Generation of neurons from somatic cells of healthy individuals and neurological patients through induced pluripotency or direct conversion. Stem Cells 2015; 32:2811-7. [PMID: 24989459 PMCID: PMC4282532 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Revised: 05/31/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Access to healthy or diseased human neural tissue is a daunting task and represents a barrier for advancing our understanding about the cellular, genetic, and molecular mechanisms underlying neurogenesis and neurodegeneration. Reprogramming of somatic cells to pluripotency by transient expression of transcription factors was achieved a few years ago. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) from both healthy individuals and patients suffering from debilitating, life-threatening neurological diseases have been differentiated into several specific neuronal subtypes. An alternative emerging approach is the direct conversion of somatic cells (i.e., fibroblasts, blood cells, or glial cells) into neuron-like cells. However, to what extent neuronal direct conversion of diseased somatic cells can be achieved remains an open question. Optimization of current expansion and differentiation approaches is highly demanded to increase the differentiation efficiency of specific phenotypes of functional neurons from iPSCs or through somatic cell direct conversion. The realization of the full potential of iPSCs relies on the ability to precisely modify specific genome sequences. Genome editing technologies including zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CAS9 RNA-guided nucleases have progressed very fast over the last years. The combination of genome-editing strategies and patient-specific iPSC biology will offer a unique platform for in vitro generation of diseased and corrected neural derivatives for personalized therapies, disease modeling and drug screening. Stem Cells2014;32:2811–2817
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván Velasco
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular-Neurociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, D.F, México; Centro GENYO, Granada, Spain
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neuron development has been an intense area of research during recent years. This is due in part to a growing interest in regenerative medicine and the hope that treatment for diseases affecting mDA neurons, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), might be facilitated by a better understanding of how these neurons are specified, differentiated and maintained in vivo. This knowledge might help to instruct efforts to generate mDA neurons in vitro, which holds promise not only for cell replacement therapy, but also for disease modeling and drug discovery. In this Primer, we will focus on recent developments in understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate the development of mDA neurons in vivo, and how they have been used to generate human mDA neurons in vitro from pluripotent stem cells or from somatic cells via direct reprogramming. Current challenges and future avenues in the development of a regenerative medicine for PD will be identified and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Arenas
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Dept. Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Center of Developmental Biology for Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Mark Denham
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Dept. Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Center of Developmental Biology for Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Danish Research Institute of Translational Neuroscience, Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
| | - J. Carlos Villaescusa
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Dept. Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Center of Developmental Biology for Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno 61137, Czech Republic
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Hamilton W, Brickman J. Erk Signaling Suppresses Embryonic Stem Cell Self-Renewal to Specify Endoderm. Cell Rep 2014; 9:2056-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Revised: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Integration of signals along orthogonal axes of the vertebrate neural tube controls progenitor competence and increases cell diversity. PLoS Biol 2014; 12:e1001907. [PMID: 25026549 PMCID: PMC4098999 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1001907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
FGF gates competence to generate Floor Plate and Neural Crest in response to Shh and BMP signals by controlling expression of the transcription factor Nkx1.2. A relatively small number of signals are responsible for the variety and pattern of cell types generated in developing embryos. In part this is achieved by exploiting differences in the concentration or duration of signaling to increase cellular diversity. In addition, however, changes in cellular competence—temporal shifts in the response of cells to a signal—contribute to the array of cell types generated. Here we investigate how these two mechanisms are combined in the vertebrate neural tube to increase the range of cell types and deliver spatial control over their location. We provide evidence that FGF signaling emanating from the posterior of the embryo controls a change in competence of neural progenitors to Shh and BMP, the two morphogens that are responsible for patterning the ventral and dorsal regions of the neural tube, respectively. Newly generated neural progenitors are exposed to FGF signaling, and this maintains the expression of the Nk1-class transcription factor Nkx1.2. Ventrally, this acts in combination with the Shh-induced transcription factor FoxA2 to specify floor plate cells and dorsally in combination with BMP signaling to induce neural crest cells. As development progresses, the intersection of FGF with BMP and Shh signals is interrupted by axis elongation, resulting in the loss of Nkx1.2 expression and allowing the induction of ventral and dorsal interneuron progenitors by Shh and BMP signaling to supervene. Hence a similar mechanism increases cell type diversity at both dorsal and ventral poles of the neural tube. Together these data reveal that tissue morphogenesis produces changes in the coincidence of signals acting along orthogonal axes of the neural tube and this is used to define spatial and temporal transitions in the competence of cells to interpret morphogen signaling. During embryonic development different cell types arise at different times and places. This diversity is produced by a relatively small number of signals and depends, at least in part, on changes in the way cells respond to each signal. One example of this so-called change in “competence” is found in the vertebrate spinal cord where a signal, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), induces a glial cell type known as floor plate (FP) at early developmental times, while the same signal later induces specific types of neurons. Here, we dissected the molecular mechanism underlying the change in competence, and found that another signal, FGF, is involved through its control of the transcription factor Nkx1.2. In embryos, Shh and FGF are produced perpendicular to one another and FP is induced where the two signals intersect. The position of this intersection changes as the embryo elongates and this determines the place and time FP is produced. A similar strategy also appears to apply to another cell type, neural crest. In this case, the intersection of FGF with BMP signal is crucial. Together the data provide new insight into the spatiotemporal control of cell type specification during development of the vertebrate spinal cord.
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Chang KH, Li M. Clonal isolation of an intermediate pluripotent stem cell state. Stem Cells 2014; 31:918-27. [PMID: 23341219 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/13/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells of different embryonic origin respond to distinct signaling pathways. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which are derived from the inner cell mass of preimplantation embryos, are dependent on LIF-Stat3 signaling, while epiblast stem cells (EpiSCs), which are established from postimplantation embryos, require activin-Smad2/3 signaling. Recent studies have revealed heterogeneity of ESCs and the presence of intermediate pluripotent stem cell populations, whose responsiveness to growth factors, gene expression patterns, and associated chromatic signatures are compatible to a state in between ESCs and EpiSCs. However, it remains unknown whether such cell populations represent a stable entity at single-cell level. Here, we describe the identification of clonal stem cells from mouse ESCs with global gene expression profiles representing such a state. These pluripotent stem cells display dual responsiveness to LIF-Stat3 and activin-Smad2/3 at single-cell level and thus named as intermediate epiblast stem cells (IESCs). Furthermore, these cells show accelerated temporal gene expression kinetics during embryoid body differentiation in vitro consistent with a more advanced differentiation stage than that of ESCs. The successful isolation of IESCs supports the notion that traverse from naïve ground state toward lineage commitment occurs gradually in which transition milestones can be captured as clonogenic entity. Our finding provides a new model to better understand the multiple pluripotent states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Hsuan Chang
- Stem Cell Neurogenesis Group, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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50
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Xu R, Feyeux M, Julien S, Nemes C, Albrechtsen M, Dinnyés A, Krause KH. Screening of bioactive peptides using an embryonic stem cell-based neurodifferentiation assay. AAPS JOURNAL 2014; 16:400-12. [PMID: 24557747 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-014-9578-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, PSCs, towards neural lineages has attracted significant attention, given the potential use of such cells for in vitro studies and for regenerative medicine. The present experiments were designed to identify bioactive peptides which direct PSC differentiation towards neural cells. Fifteen peptides were designed based on NCAM, FGFR, and growth factors sequences. The effect of peptides was screened using a mouse embryonic stem cell line expressing luciferase dual reporter construct driven by promoters for neural tubulin and for elongation factor 1. Cell number was estimated by measuring total cellular DNA. We identified five peptides which enhanced activities of both promoters without relevant changes in cell number. We selected the two most potent peptides for further analysis: the NCAM-derived mimetic FGLL and the synthetic NCAM ligand, Plannexin. Both compounds induced phenotypic neuronal differentiation, as evidenced by increased neurite outgrowth. In summary, we used a simple, but sensitive screening approach to identify the neurogenic peptides. These peptides will not only provide new clues concerning pathways of neurogenesis, but they may also be interesting biotechnology tools for in vitro generation of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruodan Xu
- ENKAM Pharmaceuticals A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark
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