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Rebhun RB, York D, De Graaf FMD, Yoon P, Batcher KL, Luker ME, Ryan S, Peyton J, Kent MS, Stern JA, Bannasch DL. A variant in the 5'UTR of ERBB4 is associated with lifespan in Golden Retrievers. GeroScience 2024; 46:2849-2862. [PMID: 37855863 PMCID: PMC11009206 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00968-2] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in long-lived human populations have led to identification of variants associated with Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular disease, the latter being the most common cause of mortality in people worldwide. In contrast, naturally occurring cancer represents the leading cause of death in pet dogs, and specific breeds like the Golden Retriever (GR) carry up to a 65% cancer-related death rate. We hypothesized that GWAS of long-lived GRs might lead to the identification of genetic variants capable of modifying longevity within this cancer-predisposed breed. A GWAS was performed comparing GR dogs ≥ 14 years to dogs dying prior to age 12 which revealed a significant association to ERBB4, the only member of the epidermal growth factor receptor family capable of serving as both a tumor suppressor gene and an oncogene. No coding variants were identified, however, distinct haplotypes in the 5'UTR were associated with reduced lifespan in two separate populations of GR dogs. When all GR dogs were analyzed together (n = 304), the presence of haplotype 3 was associated with shorter survival (11.8 years vs. 12.8 years, p = 0.024). GRs homozygous for haplotype 3 had the shortest survival, and GRs homozygous for haplotype 1 had the longest survival (11.6 years vs. 13.5 years, p = 0.0008). Sub-analyses revealed that the difference in lifespan for GRs carrying at least 1 copy of haplotype 3 was specific to female dogs (p = 0.009), whereas survival remained significantly different in both male and female GRs homozygous for haplotype 1 or haplotype 3 (p = 0.026 and p = 0.009, respectively). Taken together, these findings implicate a potential role for ERBB4 in GR longevity and provide evidence that within-breed canine lifespan studies could serve as a mechanism to identify favorable or disease-modifying variants important to the axis of aging and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Rebhun
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Daniel York
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Flora M D De Graaf
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Paula Yoon
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kevin L Batcher
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Madison E Luker
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Stephanie Ryan
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jamie Peyton
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Michael S Kent
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Joshua A Stern
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Danika L Bannasch
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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2
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Keller SH, Johnson GS, Bullock G, Mhlanga-Mutangadura T, Schwartz M, Pattridge SG, Guo J, Kortz GD, Katz ML. Homozygous CNP Mutation and Neurodegeneration in Weimaraners: Myelin Abnormalities and Accumulation of Lipofuscin-like Inclusions. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:246. [PMID: 38397235 PMCID: PMC10888007 DOI: 10.3390/genes15020246] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
A progressive neurological disorder was observed in a male neutered Weimaraner. Clinical signs included fecal incontinence, lethargy, moderate paraparesis, proprioceptive pelvic limb ataxia, falling, cognitive decline, incoordination, decreased interest in food, changes in posture, and episodes of trance-like behavior. Neurologic signs were first observed at approximately 4 years, 10 months of age and progressed slowly. Magnetic resonance imaging showed generalized brain atrophy with areas of white matter pathology. Humane euthanasia was elected at 6 years, 7 months of age due to increasing severity of the neurological signs. Autofluorescent intracellular granules were observed in the cerebral and cerebellar cortexes, optic nerve, and cardiac muscle of the affected dog. These abnormal inclusions in the cerebral cortex and cardiac muscle immunolabeled with antibodies to mitochondrial ATP synthase subunit c protein, like that observed in the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis group of lysosomal storage diseases. Immunolabeling also demonstrated pronounced neuroinflammation in brain tissues. The ultrastructural appearances of the disease-related inclusion bodies in the brain and optic nerve were quite variable. The ultrastructure and locations of many of the inclusions in the nervous tissues suggested that they were derived, at least in part, from the myelin surrounding axons. The storage bodies in the cardiac muscle were located in mitochondria-rich regions and consisted of parallel arrays of membrane-like components interspersed with electron-dense flocculent material. The disease was characterized by pronounced abnormalities in the myelin of the brain and optic nerve consisting of distinctive areas of ballooning between the layers of myelin. The whole genome sequence generated from the affected dog contained a homozygous G-to-A missense mutation in CNP, which encodes proteins with CNPase enzyme activity and a structural role in myelin. The mutation predicts a Thr42Met amino acid sequence substitution. Genotyping of archived Weimaraner DNA samples identified an additional G > A variant homozygote with a clinical history and brain lesions similar to those of the proband. Of 304 Weimaraners and over 4000 other dogs of various breeds, the proband and the other Weimaraner that exhibited similar signs were the only two that were homozygous for the CNP missense variant. CNPase immunolabeling was widespread in brain tissues from normal dogs but was undetectable in the same tissues from the proband. Based on the clinical history, fluorescence and electron-microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and molecular genetic findings, the late-onset Weimaraner disorder likely results from the missense mutation that results in CNPase deficiency, leading to myelin abnormalities, accumulation of lysosomal storage bodies, and brain atrophy. Similar disorders have been associated with different CNP variants in Dalmatians and in human subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan H. Keller
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (S.H.K.); (G.B.); (T.M.-M.); (S.G.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Gary S. Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (S.H.K.); (G.B.); (T.M.-M.); (S.G.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Garrett Bullock
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (S.H.K.); (G.B.); (T.M.-M.); (S.G.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Tendai Mhlanga-Mutangadura
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (S.H.K.); (G.B.); (T.M.-M.); (S.G.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Malte Schwartz
- Summit Veterinary Referral Center, Tacoma, WA 98409, USA;
| | - Savannah G. Pattridge
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (S.H.K.); (G.B.); (T.M.-M.); (S.G.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Juyuan Guo
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (S.H.K.); (G.B.); (T.M.-M.); (S.G.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Gregg D. Kortz
- VCA Sacramento Veterinary Referral Center, Sacramento, CA 95827, USA;
| | - Martin L. Katz
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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Nevue AA, Zemel BM, Friedrich SR, von Gersdorff H, Mello CV. Cell type specializations of the vocal-motor cortex in songbirds. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113344. [PMID: 37910500 PMCID: PMC10752865 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying molecular specializations in cortical circuitry supporting complex behaviors, like learned vocalizations, requires understanding of the neuroanatomical context from which these circuits arise. In songbirds, the robust arcopallial nucleus (RA) provides descending cortical projections for fine vocal-motor control. Using single-nuclei transcriptomics and spatial gene expression mapping in zebra finches, we have defined cell types and molecular specializations that distinguish RA from adjacent regions involved in non-vocal motor and sensory processing. We describe an RA-specific projection neuron, differential inhibitory subtypes, and glia specializations and have probed predicted GABAergic interneuron subtypes electrophysiologically within RA. Several cell-specific markers arise developmentally in a sex-dependent manner. Our interactive apps integrate cellular data with developmental and spatial distribution data from the gene expression brain atlas ZEBrA. Users can explore molecular specializations of vocal-motor neurons and support cells that likely reflect adaptations key to the physiology and evolution of vocal control circuits and refined motor skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A Nevue
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Benjamin M Zemel
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Samantha R Friedrich
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | | | - Claudio V Mello
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
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Cocostîrc V, Paștiu AI, Pusta DL. An Overview of Canine Inherited Neurological Disorders with Known Causal Variants. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3568. [PMID: 38003185 PMCID: PMC10668755 DOI: 10.3390/ani13223568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary neurological conditions documented in dogs encompass congenital, neonatal, and late-onset disorders, along with both progressive and non-progressive forms. In order to identify the causal variant of a disease, the main two approaches are genome-wide investigations and candidate gene investigation. Online Mendelian Inheritance in Animals currently lists 418 Mendelian disorders specific to dogs, of which 355 have their likely causal genetic variant identified. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the canine nervous system phenes and their genetic causal variant. It has been noted that the majority of these diseases have an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. Additionally, the dog breeds that are more prone to develop such diseases are the Golden Retriever, in which six inherited neurological disorders with a known causal variant have been documented, and the Belgian Shepherd, in which five such disorders have been documented. DNA tests can play a vital role in effectively managing and ultimately eradicating inherited diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vlad Cocostîrc
- Department of Genetics and Hereditary Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.I.P.); (D.L.P.)
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5
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Mbatchou J, Abney M, McPeek MS. BRASS: Permutation methods for binary traits in genetic association studies with structured samples. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1011020. [PMID: 37934792 PMCID: PMC10656004 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In genetic association analysis of complex traits, permutation testing can be a valuable tool for assessing significance when the distribution of the test statistic is unknown or not well-approximated. This commonly arises, e.g, in tests of gene-set, pathway or genome-wide significance, or when the statistic is formed by machine learning or data adaptive methods. Existing applications include eQTL mapping, association testing with rare variants, inclusion of admixed individuals in genetic association analysis, and epistasis detection among many others. For genetic association testing in samples with population structure and/or relatedness, use of naive permutation can lead to inflated type 1 error. To address this in quantitative traits, the MVNpermute method was developed. However, for association mapping of a binary trait, the relationship between the mean and variance makes both naive permutation and the MVNpermute method invalid. We propose BRASS, a permutation method for binary traits, for use in association mapping in structured samples. In addition to modeling structure in the sample, BRASS allows for covariates, ascertainment and simultaneous testing of multiple markers, and it accommodates a wide range of test statistics. In simulation studies, we compare BRASS to other permutation and resampling-based methods in a range of scenarios that include population structure, familial relatedness, ascertainment and phenotype model misspecification. In these settings, we demonstrate the superior control of type 1 error by BRASS compared to the other 6 methods considered. We apply BRASS to assess genome-wide significance for association analyses in domestic dog for elbow dysplasia (ED) and idiopathic epilepsy (IE). For both traits we detect previously identified associations, and in addition, for ED, we detect significant association with a SNP on chromosome 35 that was not detected by previous analyses, demonstrating the potential of the method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joelle Mbatchou
- Regeneron Genetics Center, Tarrytown, New York, United States of America
- Department of Statistics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Mark Abney
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Mary Sara McPeek
- Department of Statistics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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6
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Mio C, Baldan F, Damante G. NK2 homeobox gene cluster: Functions and roles in human diseases. Genes Dis 2023; 10:2038-2048. [PMID: 37492711 PMCID: PMC10363584 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
NK2 genes (NKX2 gene cluster in humans) encode for homeodomain-containing transcription factors that are conserved along the phylogeny. According to the most detailed classifications, vertebrate NKX2 genes are classified into two distinct families, NK2.1 and NK2.2. The former is constituted by NKX2-1 and NKX2-4 genes, which are homologous to the Drosophila scro gene; the latter includes NKX2-2 and NKX2-8 genes, which are homologous to the Drosophila vnd gene. Conservation of these genes is not only related to molecular structure and expression, but also to biological functions. In Drosophila and vertebrates, NK2 genes share roles in the development of ventral regions of the central nervous system. In vertebrates, NKX2 genes have a relevant role in the development of several other organs such as the thyroid, lung, and pancreas. Loss-of-function mutations in NKX2-1 and NKX2-2 are the monogenic cause of the brain-lung-thyroid syndrome and neonatal diabetes, respectively. Alterations in NKX2-4 and NKX2-8 genes may play a role in multifactorial diseases, autism spectrum disorder, and neural tube defects, respectively. NKX2-1, NKX2-2, and NKX2-8 are expressed in various cancer types as either oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Several data indicate that evaluation of their expression in tumors has diagnostic and/or prognostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catia Mio
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Federica Baldan
- Istituto di Genetica Medica, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Damante
- Dipartimento di Area Medica, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
- Istituto di Genetica Medica, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Udine 33100, Italy
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Rao S, Baranova A, Yao Y, Wang J, Zhang F. Genetic Relationships between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Intelligence. Neuropsychobiology 2022; 81:484-496. [PMID: 35764056 DOI: 10.1159/000525411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly co-occur; both traits exert an influence on intelligence scores. Genetic relationships between these three traits are far from being clear. METHODS The summary results of genome-wide association studies of ADHD (20,183 cases and 35,191 controls), ASD (18,381 cases and 27,969 controls), and intelligence (269,867 participants) were used for the analyses. Local genetic correlation analysis and polygenic overlap analysis were used to explore the shared genetic components between ADHD, ASD, and intelligence. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was used to examine the causal associations between ADHD, ASD, and intelligence. A cross-trait meta-analysis was performed to identify pleiotropic genetic variants across the three traits. RESULTS Our results showed that intelligence has a positive and negative genetic correlation with ASD and ADHD, respectively, including three hub genomic regions showing correlated genetic effects across the three traits. Polygenic overlap analysis indicated that all the risk variants contributing to ADHD are overlapped with half of those for intelligence, and the majority of the shared variants have opposite effect directions between them. The majority of risk variants (80%) of ASD are overlapped with almost all the risk variants of intelligence (97%). Notably, some ASD/intelligence overlapping variants displayed opposing effects on these two conditions. MR analysis showed that the genetic liability to higher intelligence was associated with an increased risk for ASD (OR = 1.12) and a decreased risk for ADHD (OR = 0.78). Cross-trait meta-analyses identified 170 pleiotropic genomic loci across the three traits, including 12 novel loci. Functional analyses of the novel genes support their potential involvement in neurodevelopment. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that ADHD is associated with inheriting a reduced set of low-intelligence alleles, whereas ASD results from incongruous effects from a mixture of high-intelligence and low-intelligence contributing alleles summed up with additional, ASD-specific risk variants not associated with intelligence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuquan Rao
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Ancha Baranova
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia, USA.,Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Yao Yao
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Wuxi Mental Health Center of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Fuquan Zhang
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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8
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Gernone F, Uva A, Cavalera MA, Zatelli A. Neurogenic Bladder in Dogs, Cats and Humans: A Comparative Review of Neurological Diseases. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:3233. [PMID: 36496754 PMCID: PMC9739254 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) includes abnormalities in the structure and function of the bladder and the urethra. LUTD caused by neurological disease is defined neurogenic bladder (NB). The integrity of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) is required to explicate normal micturition, maintaining the proper function of bladder and urethra. The location and type of neurological lesions influence the pattern of clinical manifestations, potential treatment, and prognosis. Though, in dogs and cats, spinal cord injury is considered mainly responsible for bladder and/or urethra incompetence, other disorders, congenital or acquired, involving CNS or PNS, could play a role in NB. In veterinary medicine, the information about the epidemiology, prevalence, etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of NB are scattered. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the epidemiology, prevalence, clinical findings, diagnosis and prognosis for NB in dogs and cats compared with humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Floriana Gernone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Italy
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9
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YAVAŞ Ö, YAVAŞ SE, BAŞAR D, AVCI Z, SARIÇETİN A, YILDIZ ER, ERSOY S, ÖZYİĞİT Ö. Anencephaly, Bifid Tongue, and Cleft Palate in a Pomeranian Dog: GFAP and NeuN Immunoreactivities. ANKARA ÜNIVERSITESI VETERINER FAKÜLTESI DERGISI 2022. [DOI: 10.33988/auvfd.1141283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Anencephaly is a congenital disease manifesting with the absence of the brain due to the failure of the cranial part of the neural tube to close during the embryonic stage. The disease may be accompanied by other anomalies and usually results in premature death. A stillborn puppy of a 2-year-old female Pomeranian dog is examined in this case. The lack of brain tissue and accompanying abnormal skull formation was noted macroscopically. The eyes were protruding out of their normal position (exophthalmos), and a bifid tongue together with a secondary cleft palate was present. On serial sections stained with Haematoxylin-Eosin, only the medulla spinalis among the central nervous system structures could be inspected microscopically. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed GFAP immunoreactivity in the astrocytic glial cells. NeuN immunoreactivity was detected in the neurons in the medulla spinalis and spinal ganglions. Incomplete retinal layers were observed on the eye sections stained with Haematoxylin-Eosin and NeuN. The case was concluded to be coherent with skull and nervous system congenital malformations rarely observed in dogs. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first description of a dog with anencephaly, bifid tongue and cleft palate.
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10
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Pinello KC, Palmieri C, Ruiz J, Zaidan Dagli ML, Niza-Ribeiro J. Risks and benefits of the interaction with companion animals. One Health 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-822794-7.00012-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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11
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Tamkeen N, AlOmar SY, Alqahtani SAM, Al-Jurayyan A, Farooqui A, Tazyeen S, Ahmad N, Ishrat R. Identification of the Key Regulators of Spina Bifida Through Graph-Theoretical Approach. Front Genet 2021; 12:597983. [PMID: 33889172 PMCID: PMC8056047 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.597983] [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: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spina Bifida (SB) is a congenital spinal cord malformation. Efforts to discern the key regulators (KRs) of the SB protein-protein interaction (PPI) network are requisite for developing its successful interventions. The architecture of the SB network, constructed from 117 manually curated genes was found to self-organize into a scale-free fractal state having a weak hierarchical organization. We identified three modules/motifs consisting of ten KRs, namely, TNIP1, TNF, TRAF1, TNRC6B, KMT2C, KMT2D, NCOA3, TRDMT1, DICER1, and HDAC1. These KRs serve as the backbone of the network, they propagate signals through the different hierarchical levels of the network to conserve the network’s stability while maintaining low popularity in the network. We also observed that the SB network exhibits a rich-club organization, the formation of which is attributed to our key regulators also except for TNIP1 and TRDMT1. The KRs that were found to ally with each other and emerge in the same motif, open up a new dimension of research of studying these KRs together. Owing to the multiple etiology and mechanisms of SB, a combination of several biomarkers is expected to have higher diagnostic accuracy for SB as compared to using a single biomarker. So, if all the KRs present in a single module/motif are targetted together, they can serve as biomarkers for the diagnosis of SB. Our study puts forward some novel SB-related genes that need further experimental validation to be considered as reliable future biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naaila Tamkeen
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Suliman Yousef AlOmar
- Doping Research Chair, Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdullah Al-Jurayyan
- Immunology and HLA Section, Pathology and Clinical Laboratory Medicine, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anam Farooqui
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Safia Tazyeen
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Nadeem Ahmad
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Romana Ishrat
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
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12
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Zarzycki A, Thomas ZM, Mazrier H. Comparison of inherited neural tube defects in companion animals and livestock. Birth Defects Res 2020; 113:319-348. [PMID: 33615733 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are congenital malformations resulting from the improper or incomplete closure of the neural tube during embryonic development. A number of similar malformations of the protective coverings surrounding the central nervous system are also often included under this umbrella term, which may not strictly fit this definition. A range of NTD phenotypes exist and have been reported in humans and a wide range of domestic and livestock species. In the veterinary literature, these include cases of anencephaly, encephalocele, dermoid sinus, spina bifida, and craniorachischisis. While environmental factors have a role, genetic predisposition may account for a significant part of the risk of NTDs in these animal cases. Studies of laboratory model species (fish, birds, amphibians, and rodents) have been instrumental in improving our understanding of the neurulation process. In mice, over 200 genes that may be involved in this process have been identified and variant phenotypes investigated. Like laboratory mouse models, domestic animals and livestock species display a wide range of NTD phenotypes. They remain, however, a largely underutilized population and could complement already established laboratory models. Here we review reports of NTDs in companion animals and livestock, and compare these to other animal species and human cases. We aim to highlight the potential of nonlaboratory animal models for mutation discovery as well as general insights into the mechanisms of neurulation and the development of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Zarzycki
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zoe M Thomas
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hamutal Mazrier
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Dean JH, Pauly R, Stevenson RE. Neural Tube Defects and Associated Anomalies before and after Folic Acid Fortification. J Pediatr 2020; 226:186-194.e4. [PMID: 32634404 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the prevalence and types of neural tube defects and the types of anomalies co-occurring with neural tube defects in 6 years before fortification of cereal grain flour with folic acid (1992-1998) and 20 years after fortification (1999-2018) in South Carolina, a state with a historically high prevalence of these birth defects. STUDY DESIGN The prevalence of neural tube defects was determined by active and passive surveillance methods in South Carolina since 1992. The types of neural tube defects and co-occurring malformations were determined by prenatal ultrasound and post-delivery examination. RESULTS In the 6 prefortification years, 363 neural tube defects were identified among 279 163 live births and fetal deaths (1/769), 305 (84%) of which were isolated defects of the calvaria or spine. In the 20 fortification years, there were significant reductions in the prevalence and percentage of isolated defects: 938 neural tube defects were identified among 1 165 134 live births and fetal deaths (1/1242), 696 (74.2%) of which were isolated. The current prevalence of neural tube defects in South Carolina (0.56/1000 live births and fetal deaths) is comparable with that nationwide. CONCLUSIONS The continued occurrence of neural tube defects, the majority of which are isolated, after folic acid fortification of cereal grain flours suggests that additional prevention measures are necessary to reduce further the prevalence of these serious defects of the brain and spine.
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14
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Dear JD, Sykes JE, Bannasch DL. Quality of DNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded canine tissues. J Vet Diagn Invest 2020; 32:556-559. [PMID: 32517550 DOI: 10.1177/1040638720929637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Veterinary pathology tissue banks are valuable resources for genetic studies. However, limited data exist as to whether quality DNA can be extracted from these tissues for use in canine genotyping studies. We extracted DNA from 44 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks from dogs; 9 of these dogs had DNA available from whole blood samples that had been banked. We genotyped DNA from 30 of 44 tissue blocks and 9 whole blood samples on the Illumina CanineHD BeadChip; DNA quality was insufficient in 14 of 44 samples from tissue blocks. There was significant correlation between the 260/280 ratio and single-nucleotide variation (SNV) call rate (p = 0.0276; r2 = 0.162); 23 of 30 samples from FFPE were genotyped with > 65% call rates. Median pairwise identical-by-state (IBS) analysis was 0.99 in 8 pairs of dogs with call rates > 65%. Neither age of tissue block nor specific tissue types were associated with significant differences in DNA concentration, 260/280 ratio, or SNV call rate. DNA extracted from tissue blocks can have variable quality, although comparable levels of homozygosity suggest that extracts from FFPE with call rates > 65% might provide similar results to samples from whole blood when analyzed on the Illumina CanineHD BeadChip.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Dear
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology (Dear, Sykes) and Population Health and Reproduction (Bannasch), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Jane E Sykes
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology (Dear, Sykes) and Population Health and Reproduction (Bannasch), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Danika L Bannasch
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology (Dear, Sykes) and Population Health and Reproduction (Bannasch), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA
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15
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Thomas ZM, Podadera JM, Donahoe SL, Foo T, Weerakoon L, Mazrier H. Neural tube defects in four Shetland sheepdog puppies: clinical characterisation and computed tomography investigation. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:312-318. [PMID: 32319083 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12949] [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] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Here, we report on the occurrence of neural tube defects (NTDs) in four related Shetland sheepdog puppies. NTDs present as a range of congenital malformations affecting the spine, skull and associated structures. Despite the severity of these malformations and their relatively high prevalence in humans, the aetiology is not well understood. It is even less well characterised in veterinary medicine. CASE REPORT Affected puppies were investigated using computed tomography (CT) and then necropsy. CT identified a range of brain and spine abnormalities in the affected animals, including caudal anencephaly, encephalocele, spina bifida and malformed vertebrae. Other observed abnormalities in these puppies, including cranioschisis, atresia ani and hydrocephalus, may be secondary to, or associated with, the primary NTDs identified. CONCLUSION This case report describes multiple related cases of NTDs in an Australian cohort of dogs. This study also highlights the potential of advanced imaging techniques in identifying congenital anomalies in stillborn and neonatal puppies. Further research is required to investigate the aetiology of NTDs in this group of affected Shetland sheepdogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z M Thomas
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J M Podadera
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S L Donahoe
- Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services, Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tsy Foo
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - L Weerakoon
- Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services, Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - H Mazrier
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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16
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Ortega-Pacheco A, Lezama-García MA, Colín-Flores R, Jiménez-Coello M, Acevedo-Arcique C, Gutiérrez-Blanco E. Presence of congenital anomalies in three dog litters. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:652-655. [PMID: 32003081 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This report describes multiple congenital malformations found in three dog litters delivered by emergency caesarean section. In all of the litters, some puppies were born alive but were euthanized because of the seriousness of their malformations and low probability of survival. In two litters, gastroschisis was associated with amelia of the right anterior limb. Other malformations such as anencephaly were also found in three puppies among the different litters. This report describes the morphological findings of the affected puppies, discusses the most appropriate terminologies for each case and highlights the importance of an epidemiological survey to identify potential factors associated with the cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ortega-Pacheco
- Department of Animal Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Merida, Mexico
| | | | - Rafael Colín-Flores
- Department of Animal Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Merida, Mexico
| | | | | | - Eduardo Gutiérrez-Blanco
- Department of Animal Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Merida, Mexico
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17
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Sevane N, Martínez R, Bruford MW. Genome-wide differential DNA methylation in tropically adapted Creole cattle and their Iberian ancestors. Anim Genet 2018; 50:15-26. [DOI: 10.1111/age.12731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N. Sevane
- School of Biosciences; Cardiff University; Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3AX UK
| | - R. Martínez
- Corporación Colombiana De Investigación Agropecuaria (Corpoica); Centro de Investigaciones Tibaitatá; km 14 via Bogotá 250047 Mosquera Colombia
| | - M. W. Bruford
- School of Biosciences; Cardiff University; Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3AX UK
- Sustainable Places Research Institute; Cardiff University; Cardiff CF10 3BA UK
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18
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Brown EA, Thomasy SM, Murphy CJ, Bannasch DL. Genetic analysis of optic nerve head coloboma in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever identifies discordance with the NHEJ1 intronic deletion (collie eye anomaly mutation). Vet Ophthalmol 2018; 21:144-150. [PMID: 28702949 PMCID: PMC5766432 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Collie eye anomaly (CEA) encompasses a spectrum of different ophthalmic phenotypes from clinically inconsequential choroidal hypoplasia to blindness from coloboma of the optic nerve head (ONH). A previous study found a 7.8-kb deletion in intron 4 of the NHEJ1 gene to be associated with CEA. A genetic test based on this association is recommended for many breeds, including the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (NSDTR). Collection of ONH coloboma-affected NSDTR showed lack of concordance of the NHEJ1 intronic deletion with ONH coloboma. Using genomewide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping in 7 ONH coloboma-affected NSDTR cases and 47 unaffected NSDTR controls with no ophthalmic signs, one SNP, located on chromosome 7, demonstrated genomewide significance. However, high genomic inflation may have confounded the results. Therefore, the genomewide association study was repeated using EMMAX to control for population structure in the cohort of 7 cases and 47 controls. However, no regions of the genome were significantly associated with ONH coloboma. These results failed to document significant association with the CEA locus. Due to the complex genetic etiology of ONH coloboma, the NHEJ1 intronic deletion test results should be carefully considered when making breeding decisions. If the goal is to select for visually competent dogs, our data suggest that eye examinations of puppies would be more effective as a guide in selection of breeding pairs than relying solely on currently available genetic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A. Brown
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California—Davis
| | - Sara M. Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California—Davis
| | - Christopher J. Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California—Davis
| | - Danika L. Bannasch
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California—Davis, Davis, CA 95616,
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19
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Madrid A, Chopra P, Alisch RS. Species-Specific 5 mC and 5 hmC Genomic Landscapes Indicate Epigenetic Contribution to Human Brain Evolution. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:39. [PMID: 29491831 PMCID: PMC5817089 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Human evolution from non-human primates has seen substantial change in the central nervous system, with the molecular mechanisms underlying human brain evolution remaining largely unknown. Methylation of cytosine at the fifth carbon (5-methylcytosine; 5 mC) is an essential epigenetic mark linked to neurodevelopment, as well as neurological disease. The emergence of another modified form of cytosine (5-hydroxymethylcytosine; 5 hmC) that is enriched in the brain further substantiates a role for these epigenetic marks in neurodevelopment, yet little is known about the evolutionary importance of these marks in brain development. Here, human and monkey brain tissue were profiled, identifying 5,516 and 4,070 loci that were differentially methylated and hydroxymethylated, respectively, between the species. Annotation of these loci to the human genome revealed genes critical for the development of the nervous system and that are associated with intelligence and higher cognitive functioning, such as RELN and GNAS. Moreover, ontological analyses of these differentially methylated and hydroxymethylated genes revealed a significant enrichment of neuronal/immunological-related processes, including neurogenesis and axon development. Finally, the sequences flanking the differentially methylated/hydroxymethylated loci contained a significant enrichment of binding sites for neurodevelopmentally important transcription factors (e.g., OTX1 and PITX1), suggesting that DNA methylation may regulate gene expression by mediating transcription factor binding on these transcripts. Together, these data support dynamic species-specific epigenetic contributions in the evolution and development of the human brain from non-human primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Madrid
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Pankaj Chopra
- Department Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Reid S. Alisch
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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20
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Mohd-Zin SW, Marwan AI, Abou Chaar MK, Ahmad-Annuar A, Abdul-Aziz NM. Spina Bifida: Pathogenesis, Mechanisms, and Genes in Mice and Humans. SCIENTIFICA 2017; 2017:5364827. [PMID: 28286691 PMCID: PMC5327787 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5364827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Spina bifida is among the phenotypes of the larger condition known as neural tube defects (NTDs). It is the most common central nervous system malformation compatible with life and the second leading cause of birth defects after congenital heart defects. In this review paper, we define spina bifida and discuss the phenotypes seen in humans as described by both surgeons and embryologists in order to compare and ultimately contrast it to the leading animal model, the mouse. Our understanding of spina bifida is currently limited to the observations we make in mouse models, which reflect complete or targeted knockouts of genes, which perturb the whole gene(s) without taking into account the issue of haploinsufficiency, which is most prominent in the human spina bifida condition. We thus conclude that the need to study spina bifida in all its forms, both aperta and occulta, is more indicative of the spina bifida in surviving humans and that the measure of deterioration arising from caudal neural tube defects, more commonly known as spina bifida, must be determined by the level of the lesion both in mouse and in man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siti W. Mohd-Zin
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ahmed I. Marwan
- Laboratory for Fetal and Regenerative Biology, Colorado Fetal Care Center, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | | | - Azlina Ahmad-Annuar
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noraishah M. Abdul-Aziz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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21
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Kousa YA, Mansour TA, Seada H, Matoo S, Schutte BC. Shared molecular networks in orofacial and neural tube development. Birth Defects Res 2017; 109:169-179. [DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Youssef A. Kousa
- Pediatric Residency Program; Children's National Health System; Washington DC
| | - Tamer A. Mansour
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction; University of California; Davis California
- Department of Clinical Pathology, College of Medicine; Mansoura University; Egypt
| | - Haitham Seada
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Computational Optimization and Innovation Laboratory; Michigan State University; East Lansing Michigan
| | - Samaneh Matoo
- Department of Modern Science; Islamic Azad University-Tehran Medical Branch; Tehran Iran
| | - Brian C. Schutte
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics and the Department of Pediatrics and Human Development; Michigan State University; East Lansing Michigan
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22
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Evaluation of the genetic basis of primary hypoadrenocorticism in Standard Poodles using SNP array genotyping and whole-genome sequencing. Mamm Genome 2016; 28:56-65. [PMID: 27864587 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-016-9671-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Primary hypoadrenocorticism, also known as Addison's disease, is an autoimmune disorder leading to the destruction of the adrenal cortex and subsequent loss of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid hormones. The disease is prevalent in Standard Poodles and is believed to be highly heritable in the breed. Using genotypes derived from the Illumina Canine HD SNP array, we performed a genome-wide association study of 133 carefully phenotyped Standard Poodles (61 affected, 72 unaffected) and found no markers significantly associated with the disease. We also sequenced the entire genomes of 20 Standard Poodles (13 affected, 7 unaffected) and analyzed the data to identify common variants (including SNPs, indels, structural variants, and copy number variants) across affected dogs and variants segregating within a single pedigree of highly affected dogs. We identified several candidate genes that may be fixed in both Standard Poodles and a small population of dogs of related breeds. Further studies are required to confirm these findings more broadly, as well as additional gene-mapping efforts aimed at fully understanding the genetic basis of what is likely a complex inherited disorder.
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23
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An Inversion Disrupting FAM134B Is Associated with Sensory Neuropathy in the Border Collie Dog Breed. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2016; 6:2687-92. [PMID: 27527794 PMCID: PMC5015927 DOI: 10.1534/g3.116.027896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Sensory neuropathy in the Border Collie is a severe neurological disorder caused by the degeneration of sensory and, to a lesser extent, motor nerve cells with clinical signs starting between 2 and 7 months of age. Using a genome-wide association study approach with three cases and 170 breed matched controls, a suggestive locus for sensory neuropathy was identified that was followed up using a genome sequencing approach. An inversion disrupting the candidate gene FAM134B was identified. Genotyping of additional cases and controls and RNAseq analysis provided strong evidence that the inversion is causal. Evidence of cryptic splicing resulting in novel exon transcription for FAM134B was identified by RNAseq experiments. This investigation demonstrates the identification of a novel sensory neuropathy associated mutation, by mapping using a minimal set of cases and subsequent genome sequencing. Through mutation screening, it should be possible to reduce the frequency of or completely eliminate this debilitating condition from the Border Collie breed population.
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24
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Kol A, Arzi B, Athanasiou KA, Farmer DL, Nolta JA, Rebhun RB, Chen X, Griffiths LG, Verstraete FJM, Murphy CJ, Borjesson DL. Companion animals: Translational scientist's new best friends. Sci Transl Med 2016; 7:308ps21. [PMID: 26446953 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaa9116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge and resources derived from veterinary medicine represent an underused resource that could serve as a bridge between data obtained from diseases models in laboratory animals and human clinical trials. Naturally occurring disease in companion animals that display the defining attributes of similar, if not identical, diseases in humans hold promise for providing predictive proof of concept in the evaluation of new therapeutics and devices. Here we outline comparative aspects of naturally occurring diseases in companion animals and discuss their current uses in translational medicine, benefits, and shortcomings. Last, we envision how these natural models of disease might ultimately decrease the failure rate in human clinical trials and accelerate the delivery of effective treatments to the human clinical market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Kol
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Boaz Arzi
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Kyriacos A Athanasiou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, U.S.A. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Diana L Farmer
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Jan A Nolta
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA. Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Robert B Rebhun
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Xinbin Chen
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA. Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Leigh G Griffiths
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Frank J M Verstraete
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA. Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Dori L Borjesson
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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25
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Abstract
Spina bifida with or without meningocele or meningomyelocele is encountered infrequently in small animal practice. The English bulldog and Manx cat are breeds predisposed. Although often silent clinically, in those animals with clinical signs, it is important to recognize the signs early and to understand the appropriate imaging modalities employed in establishing a diagnosis. In a select population of affected animals, proposed surgical intervention may be considered to prevent neurologic decline, prevent secondary complications, and potentially improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel B Song
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Red Bank Veterinary Hospital, 197 Hance Avenue, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724, USA
| | - Eric N Glass
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Red Bank Veterinary Hospital, 197 Hance Avenue, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724, USA
| | - Marc Kent
- Department of Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, 2200 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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26
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A Novel Genome-Wide Association Study Approach Using Genotyping by Exome Sequencing Leads to the Identification of a Primary Open Angle Glaucoma Associated Inversion Disrupting ADAMTS17. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143546. [PMID: 26683476 PMCID: PMC4684296 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Closed breeding populations in the dog in conjunction with advances in gene mapping and sequencing techniques facilitate mapping of autosomal recessive diseases and identification of novel disease-causing variants, often using unorthodox experimental designs. In our investigation we demonstrate successful mapping of the locus for primary open angle glaucoma in the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen dog breed with 12 cases and 12 controls, using a novel genotyping by exome sequencing approach. The resulting genome-wide association signal was followed up by genome sequencing of an individual case, leading to the identification of an inversion with a breakpoint disrupting the ADAMTS17 gene. Genotyping of additional controls and expression analysis provide strong evidence that the inversion is disease causing. Evidence of cryptic splicing resulting in novel exon transcription as a consequence of the inversion in ADAMTS17 is identified through RNAseq experiments. This investigation demonstrates how a novel genotyping by exome sequencing approach can be used to map an autosomal recessive disorder in the dog, with the use of genome sequencing to facilitate identification of a disease-associated variant.
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27
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Woitek R, Prayer D, Weber M, Amann G, Seidl R, Bettelheim D, Schöpf V, Brugger PC, Furtner J, Asenbaum U, Kasprian G. Fetal diffusion tensor quantification of brainstem pathology in Chiari II malformation. Eur Radiol 2015; 26:1274-83. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-015-3939-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Safra N, Hayward LJ, Aguilar M, Sacks BN, Westropp JL, Mohr FC, Mellersh CS, Bannasch DL. DNA Sequence Variants in the Five Prime Untranslated Region of the Cyclooxygenase-2 Gene Are Commonly Found in Healthy Dogs and Gray Wolves. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0133127. [PMID: 26244515 PMCID: PMC4526539 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0133127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of regional DNA variants upstream to the translation initiation site of the canine Cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) gene in healthy dogs. Cox-2 plays a role in various disease conditions such as acute and chronic inflammation, osteoarthritis and malignancy. A role for Cox-2 DNA variants in genetic predisposition to canine renal dysplasia has been proposed and dog breeders have been encouraged to select against these DNA variants. We sequenced 272–422 bases in 152 dogs unaffected by renal dysplasia and found 19 different haplotypes including 11 genetic variants which had not been described previously. We genotyped 7 gray wolves to ascertain the wildtype variant and found that the wolves we analyzed had predominantly the second most common DNA variant found in dogs. Our results demonstrate an elevated level of regional polymorphism that appears to be a feature of healthy domesticated dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Safra
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Miriam Aguilar
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Benjamin N. Sacks
- Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California United States of America
| | - Jodi L. Westropp
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - F. Charles Mohr
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | | | - Danika L. Bannasch
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
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29
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Qiao R, He Y, Pan B, Xiao S, Zhang X, Li J, Zhang Z, Hong Y, Xing Y, Ren J. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of human microtia via a pig model of HOXA1 syndrome. Dis Model Mech 2015; 8:611-22. [PMID: 26035869 PMCID: PMC4457031 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.018291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microtia is a congenital malformation of the outer ears. Although both genetic and environmental components have been implicated in microtia, the genetic causes of this innate disorder are poorly understood. Pigs have naturally occurring diseases comparable to those in humans, providing exceptional opportunity to dissect the molecular mechanism of human inherited diseases. Here we first demonstrated that a truncating mutation in HOXA1 causes a monogenic disorder of microtia in pigs. We further performed RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis on affected and healthy pig embryos (day 14.25). We identified a list of 337 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the normal and mutant samples, shedding light on the transcriptional network involving HOXA1. The DEGs are enriched in biological processes related to cardiovascular system and embryonic development, and neurological, renal and urological diseases. Aberrant expressions of many DEGs have been implicated in human innate deformities corresponding to microtia-associated syndromes. After applying three prioritizing algorithms, we highlighted appealing candidate genes for human microtia from the 337 DEGs. We searched for coding variants of functional significance within six candidate genes in 147 microtia-affected individuals. Of note, we identified one EVC2 non-synonymous mutation (p.Asp1174Asn) as a potential disease-implicating variant for a human microtia-associated syndrome. The findings advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying human microtia, and provide an interesting example of the characterization of human disease-predisposing variants using pig models. Summary: A pig model of HOXA1 syndrome provides novel insight into the molecular mechanisms of human microtia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruimin Qiao
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuyong He
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Pan
- Plastic Surgery Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100144, People's Republic of China
| | - Shijun Xiao
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
| | - Xufei Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyan Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Hong
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuyun Xing
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Ren
- Key Laboratory for Animal Biotechnology of Jiangxi Province and the Ministry of Agriculture of China, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, People's Republic of China
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Woitek R, Dvorak A, Weber M, Seidl R, Bettelheim D, Schöpf V, Amann G, Brugger PC, Furtner J, Asenbaum U, Prayer D, Kasprian G. MR-based morphometry of the posterior fossa in fetuses with neural tube defects of the spine. PLoS One 2014; 9:e112585. [PMID: 25393279 PMCID: PMC4231033 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives In cases of “spina bifida,” a detailed prenatal imaging assessment of the exact morphology of neural tube defects (NTD) is often limited. Due to the diverse clinical prognosis and prenatal treatment options, imaging parameters that support the prenatal differentiation between open and closed neural tube defects (ONTDs and CNTDs) are required. This fetal MR study aims to evaluate the clivus-supraocciput angle (CSA) and the maximum transverse diameter of the posterior fossa (TDPF) as morphometric parameters to aid in the reliable diagnosis of either ONTDs or CNTDs. Methods The TDPF and the CSA of 238 fetuses (20–37 GW, mean: 28.36 GW) with a normal central nervous system, 44 with ONTDS, and 13 with CNTDs (18–37 GW, mean: 24.3 GW) were retrospectively measured using T2-weighted 1.5 Tesla MR -sequences. Results Normal fetuses showed a significant increase in the TDPF (r = .956; p<.001) and CSA (r = .714; p<.001) with gestational age. In ONTDs the CSA was significantly smaller (p<.001) than in normal controls and CNTDs, whereas in CNTDs the CSA was not significantly smaller than in controls (p = .160). In both ONTDs and in CNTDs the TDPF was significantly different from controls (p<.001). Conclusions The skull base morphology in fetuses with ONTDs differs significantly from cases with CNTDs and normal controls. This is the first study to show that the CSA changes during gestation and that it is a reliable imaging biomarker to distinguish between ONTDs and CNTDs, independent of the morphology of the spinal defect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Woitek
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
| | - Anton Dvorak
- Public Hospital Wiener Neustadt, Wiener Neustadt, Austria
| | - Michael Weber
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rainer Seidl
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dieter Bettelheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Veronika Schöpf
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabriele Amann
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter C. Brugger
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Furtner
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrika Asenbaum
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Prayer
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Kasprian
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Wang Z, Zhang H, Yang H, Wang S, Rong E, Pei W, Li H, Wang N. Genome-wide association study for wool production traits in a Chinese Merino sheep population. PLoS One 2014; 9:e107101. [PMID: 25268383 PMCID: PMC4182092 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) provide a powerful approach for identifying quantitative trait loci without prior knowledge of location or function. To identify loci associated with wool production traits, we performed a genome-wide association study on a total of 765 Chinese Merino sheep (JunKen type) genotyped with 50 K single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In the present study, five wool production traits were examined: fiber diameter, fiber diameter coefficient of variation, fineness dispersion, staple length and crimp. We detected 28 genome-wide significant SNPs for fiber diameter, fiber diameter coefficient of variation, fineness dispersion, and crimp trait in the Chinese Merino sheep. About 43% of the significant SNP markers were located within known or predicted genes, including YWHAZ, KRTCAP3, TSPEAR, PIK3R4, KIF16B, PTPN3, GPRC5A, DDX47, TCF9, TPTE2, EPHA5 and NBEA genes. Our results not only confirm the results of previous reports, but also provide a suite of novel SNP markers and candidate genes associated with wool traits. Our findings will be useful for exploring the genetic control of wool traits in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Education Department of Heilongjiang province, Harbin, P. R. China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Education Department of Heilongjiang province, Harbin, P. R. China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Hua Yang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Science, Shihezi, P.R. China
| | - Shouzhi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Education Department of Heilongjiang province, Harbin, P. R. China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Enguang Rong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Education Department of Heilongjiang province, Harbin, P. R. China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Wenyu Pei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Education Department of Heilongjiang province, Harbin, P. R. China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Education Department of Heilongjiang province, Harbin, P. R. China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
- * E-mail: (NW); (HL)
| | - Ning Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Education Department of Heilongjiang province, Harbin, P. R. China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
- * E-mail: (NW); (HL)
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32
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Rinz CJ, Levine J, Minor KM, Humphries HD, Lara R, Starr-Moss AN, Guo LT, Williams DC, Shelton GD, Clark LA. A COLQ missense mutation in Labrador Retrievers having congenital myasthenic syndrome. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106425. [PMID: 25166616 PMCID: PMC4148433 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMSs) are heterogeneous neuromuscular disorders characterized by skeletal muscle weakness caused by disruption of signal transmission across the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). CMSs are rarely encountered in veterinary medicine, and causative mutations have only been identified in Old Danish Pointing Dogs and Brahman cattle to date. Herein, we characterize a novel CMS in 2 Labrador Retriever littermates with an early onset of marked generalized muscle weakness. Because the sire and dam share 2 recent common ancestors, CMS is likely the result of recessive alleles inherited identical by descent (IBD). Genome-wide SNP profiles generated from the Illumina HD array for 9 nuclear family members were used to determine genomic inheritance patterns in chromosomal regions encompassing 18 functional candidate genes. SNP haplotypes spanning 3 genes were consistent with autosomal recessive transmission, and microsatellite data showed that only the segment encompassing COLQ was inherited IBD. COLQ encodes the collagenous tail of acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme responsible for termination of signal transduction in the NMJ. Sequences from COLQ revealed a variant in exon 14 (c.1010T>C) that results in the substitution of a conserved amino acid (I337T) within the C-terminal domain. Both affected puppies were homozygous for this variant, and 16 relatives were heterozygous, while 288 unrelated Labrador Retrievers and 112 dogs of other breeds were wild-type. A recent study in which 2 human CMS patients were found to be homozygous for an identical COLQ mutation (c.1010T>C; I337T) provides further evidence that this mutation is pathogenic. This report describes the first COLQ mutation in canine CMS and demonstrates the utility of SNP profiles from nuclear family members for the identification of private mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin J. Rinz
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jonathan Levine
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Katie M. Minor
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Hammon D. Humphries
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Renee Lara
- Kingdom Animal Hospital, Bryan, Texas, United States of America
| | - Alison N. Starr-Moss
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Ling T. Guo
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - D. Colette Williams
- R. Prichard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - G. Diane Shelton
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (GDS); (LAC)
| | - Leigh Anne Clark
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail: (GDS); (LAC)
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