1
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Franz H, Rathod M, Zimmermann A, Stüdle C, Beyersdorfer V, Leal-Fischer K, Hanns P, Cunha T, Didona D, Hertl M, Scheibe M, Butter F, Schmidt E, Spindler V. Unbiased screening identifies regulators of cell-cell adhesion and treatment options in pemphigus. Nat Commun 2024; 15:8044. [PMID: 39271654 PMCID: PMC11399147 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51747-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell junctions, and specifically desmosomes, are crucial for robust intercellular adhesion. Desmosomal function is compromised in the autoimmune blistering skin disease pemphigus vulgaris. We combine whole-genome knockout screening and a promotor screen of the desmosomal gene desmoglein 3 in human keratinocytes to identify novel regulators of intercellular adhesion. Kruppel-like-factor 5 (KLF5) directly binds to the desmoglein 3 regulatory region and promotes adhesion. Reduced levels of KLF5 in patient tissue indicate a role in pemphigus vulgaris. Autoantibody fractions from patients impair intercellular adhesion and reduce KLF5 levels in in vitro and in vivo disease models. These effects were dependent on increased activity of histone deacetylase 3, leading to transcriptional repression of KLF5. Inhibiting histone deacetylase 3 increases KLF5 levels and protects against the deleterious effects of autoantibodies in murine and human pemphigus vulgaris models. Together, KLF5 and histone deacetylase 3 are regulators of desmoglein 3 gene expression and intercellular adhesion and represent potential therapeutic targets in pemphigus vulgaris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette Franz
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maitreyi Rathod
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Aude Zimmermann
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Stüdle
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Vivien Beyersdorfer
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Pauline Hanns
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tomás Cunha
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Deutschland
| | - Dario Didona
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Deutschland
| | - Michael Hertl
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Deutschland
| | - Marion Scheibe
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Falk Butter
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Enno Schmidt
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany; Lübeck Institute for Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Volker Spindler
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Institute of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.
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2
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Smits JGA, Cunha DL, Amini M, Bertolin M, Laberthonnière C, Qu J, Owen N, Latta L, Seitz B, Roux LN, Stachon T, Ferrari S, Moosajee M, Aberdam D, Szentmary N, van Heeringen SJ, Zhou H. Identification of the regulatory circuit governing corneal epithelial fate determination and disease. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002336. [PMID: 37856539 PMCID: PMC10586658 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The transparent corneal epithelium in the eye is maintained through the homeostasis regulated by limbal stem cells (LSCs), while the nontransparent epidermis relies on epidermal keratinocytes for renewal. Despite their cellular similarities, the precise cell fates of these two types of epithelial stem cells, which give rise to functionally distinct epithelia, remain unknown. We performed a multi-omics analysis of human LSCs from the cornea and keratinocytes from the epidermis and characterized their molecular signatures, highlighting their similarities and differences. Through gene regulatory network analyses, we identified shared and cell type-specific transcription factors (TFs) that define specific cell fates and established their regulatory hierarchy. Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) analyses of the cornea and the epidermis confirmed these shared and cell type-specific TFs. Notably, the shared and LSC-specific TFs can cooperatively target genes associated with corneal opacity. Importantly, we discovered that FOSL2, a direct PAX6 target gene, is a novel candidate associated with corneal opacity, and it regulates genes implicated in corneal diseases. By characterizing molecular signatures, our study unveils the regulatory circuitry governing the LSC fate and its association with corneal opacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jos G. A. Smits
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Dulce Lima Cunha
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Maryam Amini
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | | | - Camille Laberthonnière
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jieqiong Qu
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Nicholas Owen
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lorenz Latta
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, UKS, Homburg, Germany
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, UKS, Homburg, Germany
| | | | - Tanja Stachon
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | | | - Mariya Moosajee
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Genetics, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Aberdam
- INSERM U976, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, INSERM U1138, Centre des Cordeliers, Paris, France
| | - Nora Szentmary
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Simon J. van Heeringen
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Huiqing Zhou
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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3
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Kaur S, Sohnen P, Swamynathan S, Du Y, Espana EM, Swamynathan SK. Molecular nature of ocular surface barrier function, diseases that affect it, and its relevance for ocular drug delivery. Ocul Surf 2023; 30:3-13. [PMID: 37543173 PMCID: PMC10837323 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.08.001] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
The structural and functional integrity of the ocular surface, a continuous epithelial structure comprised of the cornea, the conjunctiva, and the ductal surface of the lacrimal as well as meibomian glands, is crucial for proper vision. The ocular surface barrier function (OSBF), sum of the different types of protective mechanisms that exist at the ocular surface, is essential to protect the rest of the eye from vision-threatening physical, chemical, and biological insults. OSBF helps maintain the immune privileged nature of the cornea and the aqueous humor by preventing entry of infectious agents, allergens, and noxious chemicals. Disruption of OSBF exposes the dense nerve endings of the cornea to these stimuli, resulting in discomfort and pain. This review summarizes the status of our knowledge related to the molecular nature of OSBF, describes the effect of different ocular surface disorders on OSBF, and examines the relevance of this knowledge for ocular drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satinder Kaur
- Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Room 2114, Tampa, FL 33612. USA
| | - Peri Sohnen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Room 2114, Tampa, FL 33612. USA
| | - Sudha Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Room 2114, Tampa, FL 33612. USA
| | - Yiqin Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Room 2114, Tampa, FL 33612. USA
| | - Edgar M Espana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Room 2114, Tampa, FL 33612. USA
| | - Shivalingappa K Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Room 2114, Tampa, FL 33612. USA.
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Attig J, Pape J, Doglio L, Kazachenka A, Ottina E, Young GR, Enfield KS, Aramburu IV, Ng KW, Faulkner N, Bolland W, Papayannopoulos V, Swanton C, Kassiotis G. Human endogenous retrovirus onco-exaptation counters cancer cell senescence through calbindin. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e164397. [PMID: 37192000 PMCID: PMC10348765 DOI: 10.1172/jci164397] [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: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased levels and diversity of human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) transcription characterize most cancer types and are linked with disease outcomes. However, the underlying processes are incompletely understood. Here, we show that elevated transcription of HERVH proviruses predicted survival of lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) and identified an isoform of CALB1, encoding calbindin, ectopically driven by an upstream HERVH provirus under the control of KLF5, as the mediator of this effect. HERVH-CALB1 expression was initiated in preinvasive lesions and associated with their progression. Calbindin loss in LUSC cell lines impaired in vitro and in vivo growth and triggered senescence, consistent with a protumor effect. However, calbindin also directly controlled the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), marked by secretion of CXCL8 and other neutrophil chemoattractants. In established carcinomas, CALB1-negative cancer cells became the dominant source of CXCL8, correlating with neutrophil infiltration and worse prognosis. Thus, HERVH-CALB1 expression in LUSC may display antagonistic pleiotropy, whereby the benefits of escaping senescence early during cancer initiation and clonal competition were offset by the prevention of SASP and protumor inflammation at later stages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - George Kassiotis
- Retroviral Immunology
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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5
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Swamynathan SK, Swamynathan S. Corneal epithelial development and homeostasis. Differentiation 2023; 132:4-14. [PMID: 36870804 PMCID: PMC10363238 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2023.02.002] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
The corneal epithelium (CE), the most anterior cellular structure of the eye, is a self-renewing stratified squamous tissue that protects the rest of the eye from external elements. Each cell in this exquisite three-dimensional structure needs to have proper polarity and positional awareness for the CE to serve as a transparent, refractive, and protective tissue. Recent studies have begun to elucidate the molecular and cellular events involved in the embryonic development, post-natal maturation, and homeostasis of the CE, and how they are regulated by a well-coordinated network of transcription factors. This review summarizes the status of related knowledge and aims to provide insight into the pathophysiology of disorders caused by disruption of CE development, and/or homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sudha Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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6
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Ruff AL, Causey RD, Koenig JA, LaGrasta CV, Gomez AM, Chalmers BT, Lehman JG. siRNA high throughput screening identifies regulators of chloropicrin and hydrogen fluoride injury in human corneal epithelial cell models. Exp Eye Res 2022; 222:109169. [PMID: 35820464 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Corneal injuries induced by various toxicants result in similar clinical presentations such as corneal opacity and neovascularization. Many studies suggest that several weeks post-exposure a convergence of the molecular mechanisms drives these progressive pathologies. However, chemical agents vary in toxicological properties, and early molecular responses are anticipated to be somewhat dissimilar for different toxicants. We chose 3120 targets from the Dharmacon Human Druggable genome to screen for chloropicrin (CP) and hydrogen fluoride (HF) corneal injury as we hypothesized that targets identified in vitro may be effective as therapeutic targets in future studies. Human immortalized corneal epithelial cells (SV40-HCEC) were used for screening. Cell viability and IL-8 were analyzed to down-select hits into validation studies, where multiplex cytokine analysis and high content analysis were performed to understand toxicant effect and target function. Some endpoints were also evaluated in a second human immortalized corneal epithelial cell line, TCEpi. Over 20 targets entered validation studies for CP and HF; of these, only three targets were shared: NR3C1, RELA, and KMT5A. These findings suggest that early molecular responses to different toxicants may be somewhat distinctive and present dissimilar targets for possible early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert L Ruff
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA.
| | - Robert D Causey
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Koenig
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
| | - Cristina V LaGrasta
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
| | - Amber M Gomez
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
| | - Bailey T Chalmers
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
| | - John G Lehman
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA
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7
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Yuan B, Wang W, Zhao H, Wang L. Role of lncRNA TUG1 in Adenomyosis and its Regulatory Mechanism in Endometrial Epithelial Cell Functions. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6550238. [PMID: 35298636 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adenomyosis (AM) is a common gynecological disorder that can cause pelvic pain. The regulatory role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in AM progression has been widely reported. This study investigated the effect and mechanism of lncRNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) on endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) in AM. METHODS Endometrial tissues of AM patients and controls were collected. A murine model of AM was established by tamoxifen induction. TUG1 expression in endometrial tissues of AM patients and mice was determined. In vivo, the effect of TUG1 on AM mice was measured through H&E staining, Masson's staining, uterine weight, and estradiol concentration. EECs isolated from AM patients were transfected with sh-TUG1. In vitro, the effect of TUG1 on the proliferation, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis of EECs was evaluated by CCK8, colony formation, immunofluorescence, wound healing, and Transwell assays. The binding relationship among TUG1, E2F4, and KLF5 was confirmed using RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assays. A function rescue experiment was designed to verify the effect of KLF5 on EECs. RESULTS TUG1 expression was elevated in AM mice and patients. Downregulation of TUG1 promoted the recovery of AM mice. Downregulation of TUG1 suppressed proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, and angiogenesis of EECs. Mechanically, TUG1 suppressed KLF5 transcription by binding to E2F4. Downregulation of KLF5 reversed the inhibitory effect of TUG1 silencing on the functions of EECs. CONCLUSION TUG1 expression was elevated in AM, and TUG1 facilitated proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, and angiogenesis of EECs via E2F4/KLF5, thereby aggravating AM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yuan
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, Henan Province, China
| | - Wuliang Wang
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, Henan Province, China
| | - Hu Zhao
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, Henan Province, China
| | - Lijun Wang
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, Henan Province, China
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8
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Conditional Deletion of AP-2β in the Periocular Mesenchyme of Mice Alters Corneal Epithelial Cell Fate and Stratification. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168730. [PMID: 34445433 PMCID: PMC8395778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea is an anterior eye structure specialized for vision. The corneal endothelium and stroma are derived from the periocular mesenchyme (POM), which originates from neural crest cells (NCCs), while the stratified corneal epithelium develops from the surface ectoderm. Activating protein-2β (AP-2β) is highly expressed in the POM and important for anterior segment development. Using a mouse model in which AP-2β is conditionally deleted in the NCCs (AP-2β NCC KO), we investigated resulting corneal epithelial abnormalities. Through PAS and IHC staining, we observed structural and phenotypic changes to the epithelium associated with AP-2β deletion. In addition to failure of the mutant epithelium to stratify, we also observed that Keratin-12, a marker of the differentiated epithelium, was absent, and Keratin-15, a limbal and conjunctival marker, was expanded across the central epithelium. Transcription factors PAX6 and P63 were not observed to be differentially expressed between WT and mutant. However, growth factor BMP4 was suppressed in the mutant epithelium. Given the non-NCC origin of the epithelium, we hypothesize that the abnormalities in the AP-2β NCC KO mouse result from changes to regulatory signaling from the POM-derived stroma. Our findings suggest that stromal pathways such as Wnt/β-Catenin signaling may regulate BMP4 expression, which influences cell fate and stratification.
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9
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Luo Y, Chen C. The roles and regulation of the KLF5 transcription factor in cancers. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:2097-2117. [PMID: 33811715 PMCID: PMC8177779 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Krüppel‐like factor 5 (KLF5) is a member of the KLF family. Recent studies have suggested that KLF5 regulates the expression of a large number of new target genes and participates in diverse cellular functions, such as stemness, proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, and migration. In response to multiple signaling pathways, various transcriptional modulation and posttranslational modifications affect the expression level and activity of KLF5. Several transgenic mouse models have revealed the physiological and pathological functions of KLF5 in different cancers. Studies of KLF5 will provide prognostic biomarkers, therapeutic targets, and potential drugs for cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Luo
- Medical Faculty of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
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10
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Hardcastle AJ, Liskova P, Bykhovskaya Y, McComish BJ, Davidson AE, Inglehearn CF, Li X, Choquet H, Habeeb M, Lucas SEM, Sahebjada S, Pontikos N, Lopez KER, Khawaja AP, Ali M, Dudakova L, Skalicka P, Van Dooren BTH, Geerards AJM, Haudum CW, Faro VL, Tenen A, Simcoe MJ, Patasova K, Yarrand D, Yin J, Siddiqui S, Rice A, Farraj LA, Chen YDI, Rahi JS, Krauss RM, Theusch E, Charlesworth JC, Szczotka-Flynn L, Toomes C, Meester-Smoor MA, Richardson AJ, Mitchell PA, Taylor KD, Melles RB, Aldave AJ, Mills RA, Cao K, Chan E, Daniell MD, Wang JJ, Rotter JI, Hewitt AW, MacGregor S, Klaver CCW, Ramdas WD, Craig JE, Iyengar SK, O'Brart D, Jorgenson E, Baird PN, Rabinowitz YS, Burdon KP, Hammond CJ, Tuft SJ, Hysi PG. A multi-ethnic genome-wide association study implicates collagen matrix integrity and cell differentiation pathways in keratoconus. Commun Biol 2021; 4:266. [PMID: 33649486 PMCID: PMC7921564 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01784-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus is characterised by reduced rigidity of the cornea with distortion and focal thinning that causes blurred vision, however, the pathogenetic mechanisms are unknown. It can lead to severe visual morbidity in children and young adults and is a common indication for corneal transplantation worldwide. Here we report the first large scale genome-wide association study of keratoconus including 4,669 cases and 116,547 controls. We have identified significant association with 36 genomic loci that, for the first time, implicate both dysregulation of corneal collagen matrix integrity and cell differentiation pathways as primary disease-causing mechanisms. The results also suggest pleiotropy, with some disease mechanisms shared with other corneal diseases, such as Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. The common variants associated with keratoconus explain 12.5% of the genetic variance, which shows potential for the future development of a diagnostic test to detect susceptibility to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J Hardcastle
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Petra Liskova
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Yelena Bykhovskaya
- The Cornea Eye Institute, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery and Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bennet J McComish
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Chris F Inglehearn
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Xiaohui Li
- Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation (formerly Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute) at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center; Department of Pediatrics, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Hélène Choquet
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Mahmoud Habeeb
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sionne E M Lucas
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Srujana Sahebjada
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | - Anthony P Khawaja
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Manir Ali
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Lubica Dudakova
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavlina Skalicka
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Bart T H Van Dooren
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | | | - Christoph W Haudum
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Endocrinology Lab Platform, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Valeria Lo Faro
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Abi Tenen
- Vision Eye Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Melbourne Stem Cell Centre, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Mark J Simcoe
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Karina Patasova
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Darioush Yarrand
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jie Yin
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Salina Siddiqui
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Aine Rice
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Layal Abi Farraj
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Yii-Der Ida Chen
- Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation (formerly Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute) at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center; Department of Pediatrics, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Jugnoo S Rahi
- UCL Great Ormond Street Hospital Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | | | | | - Jac C Charlesworth
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Carmel Toomes
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Magda A Meester-Smoor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea J Richardson
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul A Mitchell
- Centre for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Kent D Taylor
- Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation (formerly Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute) at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center; Department of Pediatrics, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Ronald B Melles
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Anthony J Aldave
- The Jules Stein Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Richard A Mills
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ke Cao
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Elsie Chan
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark D Daniell
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jie Jin Wang
- Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jerome I Rotter
- Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation (formerly Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute) at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center; Department of Pediatrics, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Vision Eye Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Melbourne Stem Cell Centre, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Stuart MacGregor
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Caroline C W Klaver
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wishal D Ramdas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jamie E Craig
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sudha K Iyengar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - David O'Brart
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- St Thomas Hospital, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Eric Jorgenson
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Paul N Baird
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Yaron S Rabinowitz
- The Cornea Eye Institute, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery and Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kathryn P Burdon
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Chris J Hammond
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
- St Thomas Hospital, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Stephen J Tuft
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Pirro G Hysi
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK.
- UCL Great Ormond Street Hospital Institute of Child Health, London, UK.
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11
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Tiwari A, Swamynathan S, Campbell G, Jhanji V, Swamynathan SK. BMP6 Regulates Corneal Epithelial Cell Stratification by Coordinating Their Proliferation and Differentiation and Is Upregulated in Pterygium. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:46. [PMID: 32845956 PMCID: PMC7452852 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.10.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Proper balance between cell proliferation and differentiation is essential for corneal epithelial (CE) stratification and homeostasis. Although bone morphogenetic protein-6 (BMP6) is known to be expressed in the CE for over 25 years, its function in this tissue remains unknown. Here, we test the hypothesis that BMP6 promotes CE cell stratification and homeostasis by regulating their proliferation and differentiation. Methods We employed postnatal day-12 (PN-12), PN-14, PN-20, and PN-90 mouse eyes; human corneal limbal epithelial (HCLE) cells; and ocular surface fibrovascular disease pterygium tissues to evaluate the role of BMP6 in CE proliferation, differentiation, and pathology by RT-qPCR, immunoblots, and/or immunofluorescent staining. Cell proliferation was quantified by immunostaining for Ki67. Results Coincident with the mouse CE stratification between PN-12 and PN-20, BMP6 was significantly upregulated and the BMP6 antagonist Noggin downregulated. Mature CE retained high BMP6 and low Noggin expression at PN-90. BMP6 and its receptors BMPR1A and BMPR2 were upregulated during in vitro stratification of HCLE cells. Consistent with its anti-proliferative role, exogenous BMP6 suppressed HCLE cell proliferation, downregulated cyclin-D1 and cyclin-D2, and upregulated cell-cycle inhibitors Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and p21. BMP6 also upregulated the desmosomal cadherins desmoplakin and desmoglein in HCLE cells, consistent with its pro-differentiation role. Human pterygium displayed significant upregulation of BMP6 coupled with downregulation of Noggin and cell-cycle suppressors KLF4 and p21. Conclusions BMP6 coordinates CE stratification and homeostasis by regulating their proliferation and differentiation. BMP6 is significantly upregulated in human pterygium concurrent with downregulation of Noggin, KLF4, and p21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Tiwari
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Sudha Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Gregory Campbell
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Vishal Jhanji
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Shivalingappa K Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.,Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.,Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.,McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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12
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Swamynathan SK, Wells A. Conjunctival goblet cells: Ocular surface functions, disorders that affect them, and the potential for their regeneration. Ocul Surf 2020; 18:19-26. [PMID: 31734511 PMCID: PMC7004882 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Conjunctival goblet cells (CGCs) are specialized cells that produce and secrete soluble mucins to the tear film that bathes the ocular surface. CGC numbers and functions are affected in various ocular surface diseases including dry eye disease with diverse etiologies. In this review we will (i) summarize the important functions of CGCs in ocular surface health, (ii) describe the ocular surface diseases that affect CGC numbers and function, (iii) provide an update on recent research outcomes that elucidate CGC differentiation, gene expression and functions, and (iv) present evidence in support of the prediction that restoring CGC numbers and/or functions is a viable strategy for alleviating ocular surface disorders that impact the CGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivalingappa K Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Alan Wells
- McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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13
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Ma J, Lwigale P. Transformation of the Transcriptomic Profile of Mouse Periocular Mesenchyme During Formation of the Embryonic Cornea. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:661-676. [PMID: 30786278 PMCID: PMC6383728 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-26018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Defects in neural crest development are a major contributing factor in corneal dysgenesis, but little is known about the genetic landscape during corneal development. The purpose of this study was to provide a detailed transcriptome profile and evaluate changes in gene expression during mouse corneal development. Methods RNA sequencing was used to uncover the transcriptomic profile of periocular mesenchyme (pNC) isolated at embryonic day (E) 10.5 and corneas isolated at E14.5 and E16.5. The spatiotemporal expression of several differentially expressed genes was validated by in situ hybridization. Results Analysis of the whole-transcriptome profile between pNC and embryonic corneas identified 3815 unique differentially expressed genes. Pathway analysis revealed an enrichment of differentially expressed genes involved in signal transduction (retinoic acid, transforming growth factor-β, and Wnt pathways) and transcriptional regulation. Conclusions Our analyses, for the first time, identify a large number of differentially expressed genes during progressive stages of mouse corneal development. Our data provide a comprehensive transcriptomic profile of the developing cornea. Combined, these data serve as a valuable resource for the identification of novel regulatory networks crucial for the advancement of studies in congenital defects, stem cell therapy, bioengineering, and adult corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Ma
- BioSciences Department, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Peter Lwigale
- BioSciences Department, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States
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14
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Loughner CL, Tiwari A, Kenchegowda D, Swamynathan S, Swamynathan SK. Spatiotemporally Controlled Ablation of Klf5 Results in Dysregulated Epithelial Homeostasis in Adult Mouse Corneas. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 58:4683-4693. [PMID: 28910443 PMCID: PMC5598321 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-22498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Corneal epithelial (CE) homeostasis requires coordination between proliferation and differentiation. Here we examine the role of cell proliferation regulator Krüppel-like factor 5 (Klf5) in adult mouse CE homeostasis. Methods Klf5 was ablated in a spatiotemporally restricted manner by inducing Cre expression in 8-week-old ternary transgenic Klf5LoxP/LoxP/Krt12rtTA/rtTA/Tet-O-Cre (Klf5Δ/ΔCE) mouse CE by administering doxycycline via chow. Normal chow-fed ternary transgenic siblings served as controls. The control and Klf5Δ/ΔCE corneal (1) histology, (2) cell proliferation, and (3) Klf5-target gene expression were examined using (1) periodic acid Schiff reagent-stained sections, (2) Ki67 expression, and (3) quantitative PCR and immunostaining, respectively. The effect of KLF4, KLF5, and OCT1 on gastrokine-1 (GKN1) promoter activity was determined by transient transfection in human skin keratinocyte NCTC-2544 cells. Results Klf5 expression was decreased to 23% of the controls in Klf5Δ/ΔCE corneas, which displayed increased fluorescein uptake, downregulation of tight junction proteins Tjp1 and Gkn1, desmosomal Dsg1a, and basement membrane Lama3 and Lamb1, suggesting defective permeability barrier. In transient transfection assays, KLF5 and OCT1 synergistically stimulated GKN1 promoter activity. Klf5Δ/ΔCE CE displayed significantly fewer cell layers and Ki67+ proliferative cells coupled with significantly decreased cyclin-D1, and elevated phospho(Ser-10) p27/Kip1 expression. Expression of Krt12, E-cadherin, and β-catenin remained unaltered in Klf5Δ/ΔCE corneas. Conclusions Klf5 contributes to adult mouse CE homeostasis by promoting (1) permeability barrier function through upregulation of Tjp1, Gkn1, Dsg1a, Lama3, and Lamb1, and (2) basal cell proliferation through upregulation of cyclin-D1 and suppression of phospho(Ser-10) p27/Kip1, without significantly affecting the expression of epithelial markers Krt12, E-cadherin, and β-catenin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea L Loughner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Anil Tiwari
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Doreswamy Kenchegowda
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Sudha Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Shivalingappa K Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States.,McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, United States.,Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States.,Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, United States
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15
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Klein RH, Hu W, Kashgari G, Lin Z, Nguyen T, Doan M, Andersen B. Characterization of enhancers and the role of the transcription factor KLF7 in regulating corneal epithelial differentiation. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:18937-18950. [PMID: 28916725 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.793117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
During tissue development, transcription factors bind regulatory DNA regions called enhancers, often located at great distances from the genes they regulate, to control gene expression. The enhancer landscape during embryonic stem cell differentiation has been well characterized. By contrast, little is known about the shared and unique enhancer regulatory mechanisms in different ectodermally derived epithelial cells. Here we use ChIP sequencing (ChIP-seq) to identify domains enriched for the histone marks histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation, histone H3 lysine 4 monomethylation, and histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K4me3, H3K4me1, and H3K27ac) and define, for the first time, the super enhancers and typical enhancers active in primary human corneal epithelial cells. We show that regulatory regions are often shared between cell types of the ectodermal lineage and that corneal epithelial super enhancers are already marked as potential regulatory domains in embryonic stem cells. Kruppel-like factor (KLF) motifs were enriched in corneal epithelial enhancers, consistent with the important roles of KLF4 and KLF5 in promoting corneal epithelial differentiation. We now show that the Kruppel family member KLF7 promotes the corneal progenitor cell state; on many genes, KLF7 antagonized the corneal differentiation-promoting KLF4. Furthermore, we found that two SNPs linked previously to corneal diseases, astigmatism, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome fall within corneal epithelial enhancers and alter their activity by disrupting transcription factor motifs that overlap these SNPs. Taken together, our work defines regulatory enhancers in corneal epithelial cells, highlights global gene-regulatory relationships shared among different epithelial cells, identifies a role for KLF7 as a KLF4 antagonist in corneal epithelial cell differentiation, and explains how two SNPs may contribute to corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Herndon Klein
- From the Departments of Biological Chemistry and.,Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - William Hu
- From the Departments of Biological Chemistry and
| | | | - Ziguang Lin
- From the Departments of Biological Chemistry and
| | - Tuyen Nguyen
- From the Departments of Biological Chemistry and.,Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Michael Doan
- From the Departments of Biological Chemistry and
| | - Bogi Andersen
- From the Departments of Biological Chemistry and .,Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, University of California, Irvine, California 92697.,Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, and
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16
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Abstract
Desmosomes represent adhesive, spot-like intercellular junctions that in association with intermediate filaments mechanically link neighboring cells and stabilize tissue architecture. In addition to this structural function, desmosomes also act as signaling platforms involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, morphogenesis, and apoptosis. Thus, deregulation of desmosomal proteins has to be considered to contribute to tumorigenesis. Proteolytic fragmentation and downregulation of desmosomal cadherins and plaque proteins by transcriptional or epigenetic mechanisms were observed in different cancer entities suggesting a tumor-suppressive role. However, discrepant data in the literature indicate that context-dependent differences based on alternative intracellular, signal transduction lead to altered outcome. Here, modulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by plakoglobin or desmoplakin and of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling appears to be of special relevance. This review summarizes current evidence on how desmosomal proteins participate in carcinogenesis, and depicts the molecular mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otmar Huber
- a Institute of Biochemistry II, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena , Nonnenplan 2-4, 07743 Jena , Germany.,b Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital , Erlanger Allee 101, 07747 Jena , Germany
| | - Iver Petersen
- c Institute of Pathology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena , Ziegelmühlenweg 1, 07743 Jena , Germany
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17
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Ci X, Xing C, Zhang B, Zhang Z, Ni JJ, Zhou W, Dong JT. KLF5 inhibits angiogenesis in PTEN-deficient prostate cancer by attenuating AKT activation and subsequent HIF1α accumulation. Mol Cancer 2015; 14:91. [PMID: 25896712 PMCID: PMC4417294 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-015-0365-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background KLF5 is a basic transcriptional factor that regulates multiple physiopathological processes. Our recent study showed that deletion of Klf5 in mouse prostate promotes tumorigenesis initiated by the deletion of Pten. While molecular characterization of Klf5-null tumors suggested that angiogenesis was partially responsible for tumor promotion, the precise function and mechanism of KLF5 deletion in prostate tumor angiogenesis remain unclear. Results Applying histological staining to Pten-null mouse prostates, we observed that deletion of Klf5 significantly increased the number of microvessels, accompanied by the upregulation of multiple angiogenesis-related genes based on microarray analysis with MetaCore software. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HuVECs), tube formation and migration, both of which are indicators of angiogenic activities, were decreased by conditioned media from PC-3 and DU 145 human prostate cancer cells with KLF5 overexpression, but increased by media from cells with KLF5 knockdown. HIF1α, a key angiogenesis inducer, was upregulated by KLF5 loss at the protein but not the mRNA level in both mouse tissues and human cell lines, as determined by immunohistochemical staining, real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting. Consistently, KLF5 loss also upregulated VEGF and PDGF, two pro-angiogenic mediators of HIF1α function, as analyzed by immunohistochemical staining in mouse tissues and ELISA in conditioned media. Mechanistically, AKT activity, which caused the accumulation of HIF1α, was increased by KLF5 knockout or knockdown but decreased by KLF5 overexpression. PI3K/AKT inhibitors consistently abolished the effects of KLF5 knockdown on angiogenic activity, HIF1α accumulation, and VEGF and PDGF expression. Conclusion KLF5 loss enhances tumor angiogenesis by attenuating PI3K/AKT signaling and subsequent accumulation of HIF1α in PTEN deficient prostate tumors. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12943-015-0365-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinpei Ci
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China. .,Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365-C Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Changsheng Xing
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365-C Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Baotong Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365-C Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Zhiqian Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365-C Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Jenny Jianping Ni
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365-C Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365-C Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Jin-Tang Dong
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China. .,Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365-C Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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18
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Xing C, Ci X, Sun X, Fu X, Zhang Z, Dong EN, Hao ZZ, Dong JT. Klf5 deletion promotes Pten deletion-initiated luminal-type mouse prostate tumors through multiple oncogenic signaling pathways. Neoplasia 2014; 16:883-99. [PMID: 25425963 PMCID: PMC4240924 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2014.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Revised: 09/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5) regulates multiple biologic processes. Its function in tumorigenesis appears contradictory though, showing both tumor suppressor and tumor promoting activities. In this study, we examined whether and how Klf5 functions in prostatic tumorigenesis using mice with prostate-specific deletion of Klf5 and phosphatase and tensin homolog (Pten), both of which are frequently inactivated in human prostate cancer. Histologic analysis demonstrated that when one Pten allele was deleted, which causes mouse prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (mPIN), Klf5 deletion accelerated the emergence and progression of mPIN. When both Pten alleles were deleted, which causes prostate cancer, Klf5 deletion promoted tumor growth, increased cell proliferation, and caused more severe morphologic and molecular alterations. Homozygous deletion of Klf5 was more effective than hemizygous deletion. Unexpectedly, while Pten deletion alone expanded basal cell population in a tumor as reported, Klf5 deletion in the Pten-null background clearly reduced basal cell population while expanding luminal cell population. Global gene expression profiling, pathway analysis, and experimental validation indicate that multiple mechanisms could mediate the tumor-promoting effect of Klf5 deletion, including the up-regulation of epidermal growth factor and its downstream signaling molecules AKT and ERK and the inactivation of the p15 cell cycle inhibitor. KLF5 also appears to cooperate with several transcription factors, including CREB1, Sp1, Myc, ER and AR, to regulate gene expression. These findings validate the tumor suppressor function of KLF5. They also yield a mouse model that shares two common genetic alterations with human prostate cancer—mutation/deletion of Pten and deletion of Klf5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsheng Xing
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China ; Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Xinpei Ci
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China ; Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Xiaoying Fu
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA ; Department of Pathology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhiqian Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Eric N Dong
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Zhao-Zhe Hao
- Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - Jin-Tang Dong
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China ; Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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19
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Johnson JL, Najor NA, Green KJ. Desmosomes: regulators of cellular signaling and adhesion in epidermal health and disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2014; 4:a015297. [PMID: 25368015 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a015297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Desmosomes are intercellular junctions that mediate cell-cell adhesion and anchor the intermediate filament network to the plasma membrane, providing mechanical resilience to tissues such as the epidermis and heart. In addition to their critical roles in adhesion, desmosomal proteins are emerging as mediators of cell signaling important for proper cell and tissue functions. In this review we highlight what is known about desmosomal proteins regulating adhesion and signaling in healthy skin-in morphogenesis, differentiation and homeostasis, wound healing, and protection against environmental damage. We also discuss how human diseases that target desmosome molecules directly or interfere indirectly with these mechanical and signaling functions to contribute to pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi L Johnson
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611 Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Nicole A Najor
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Kathleen J Green
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611 Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611
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20
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Dorà NJ, Collinson JM, Hill RE, West JD. Hemizygous Le-Cre transgenic mice have severe eye abnormalities on some genetic backgrounds in the absence of LoxP sites. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109193. [PMID: 25272013 PMCID: PMC4182886 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Eye phenotypes were investigated in Le-CreTg/−; Pax6fl/+ mice, which were expected to show tissue-specific reduction of Pax6 in surface ectoderm derivatives. To provide a better comparison with our previous studies of Pax6+/− eye phenotypes, hemizygous Le-CreTg/− and heterozygous Pax6fl/+mice were crossed onto the CBA/Ca genetic background. After the Le-Cre transgene had been backcrossed to CBA/Ca for seven generations, significant eye abnormalities occurred in some hemizygous Le-CreTg/−; Pax6+/+ controls (without a floxed Pax6fl allele) as well as experimental Le-CreTg/−; Pax6fl/+ mice. However, no abnormalities were seen in Le-Cre−/−; Pax6fl/+ or Le-Cre−/−; Pax6+/+ controls (without the Le-Cre transgene). The severity and frequency of the eye abnormalities in Le-CreTg/−; Pax6+/+ control mice diminished after backcrossing Le-CreTg/− mice to the original FVB/N strain for two generations, showing that the effect was reversible. This genetic background effect suggests that the eye abnormalities are a consequence of an interaction between the Le-Cre transgene and alleles of unknown modifier genes present in certain genetic backgrounds. The abnormalities were also ameliorated by introducing additional Pax6 gene copies on a CBA/Ca background, suggesting involvement of Pax6 depletion in Le-CreTg/−; Pax6+/+ mice rather than direct action of Cre recombinase on cryptic pseudo-loxP sites. One possibility is that expression of Cre recombinase from the Pax6-Le regulatory sequences in the Le-Cre transgene depletes cofactors required for endogenous Pax6 gene expression. Our observation that eye abnormalities can occur in hemizygous Le-CreTg/−; Pax6+/+ mice, in the absence of a floxed allele, demonstrates the importance of including all the relevant genetic controls in Cre-loxP experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J. Dorà
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - J. Martin Collinson
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E. Hill
- Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - John D. West
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Stephens DN, Klein RH, Salmans ML, Gordon W, Ho H, Andersen B. The Ets transcription factor EHF as a regulator of cornea epithelial cell identity. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:34304-24. [PMID: 24142692 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.504399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the clear, outermost portion of the eye composed of three layers: an epithelium that provides a protective barrier while allowing transmission of light into the eye, a collagen-rich stroma, and an endothelium monolayer. How cornea development and aging is controlled is poorly understood. Here we characterize the mouse cornea transcriptome from early embryogenesis through aging and compare it with transcriptomes of other epithelial tissues, identifying cornea-enriched genes, pathways, and transcriptional regulators. Additionally, we profiled cornea epithelium and stroma, defining genes enriched in these layers. Over 10,000 genes are differentially regulated in the mouse cornea across the time course, showing dynamic expression during development and modest expression changes in fewer genes during aging. A striking transition time point for gene expression between postnatal days 14 and 28 corresponds with completion of cornea development at the transcriptional level. Clustering classifies co-expressed, and potentially co-regulated, genes into biologically informative categories, including groups that exhibit epithelial or stromal enriched expression. Based on these findings, and through loss of function studies and ChIP-seq, we show that the Ets transcription factor EHF promotes cornea epithelial fate through complementary gene activating and repressing activities. Furthermore, we identify potential interactions between EHF, KLF4, and KLF5 in promoting cornea epithelial differentiation. These data provide insights into the mechanisms underlying epithelial development and aging, identifying EHF as a regulator of cornea epithelial identity and pointing to interactions between Ets and KLF factors in promoting epithelial fate. Furthermore, this comprehensive gene expression data set for the cornea is a powerful tool for discovery of novel cornea regulators and pathways.
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Ocular surface development and gene expression. J Ophthalmol 2013; 2013:103947. [PMID: 23533700 PMCID: PMC3595720 DOI: 10.1155/2013/103947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The ocular surface-a continuous epithelial surface with regional specializations including the surface and glandular epithelia of the cornea, conjunctiva, and lacrimal and meibomian glands connected by the overlying tear film-plays a central role in vision. Molecular and cellular events involved in embryonic development, postnatal maturation, and maintenance of the ocular surface are precisely regulated at the level of gene expression by a well-coordinated network of transcription factors. A thorough appreciation of the biological characteristics of the ocular surface in terms of its gene expression profiles and their regulation provides us with a valuable insight into the pathophysiology of various blinding disorders that disrupt the normal development, maturation, and/or maintenance of the ocular surface. This paper summarizes the current status of our knowledge related to the ocular surface development and gene expression and the contribution of different transcription factors to this process.
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