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Namba K, Mutai H, Matsunaga T, Kaneko H. Structural basis for pathogenic variants of GJB2 and hearing levels of patients with hearing loss. BMC Res Notes 2024; 17:131. [PMID: 38730444 PMCID: PMC11083831 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-024-06793-w] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The crystal structure of the six protomers of gap junction protein beta 2 (GJB2) enables prediction of the effect(s) of an amino acid substitution, thereby facilitating investigation of molecular pathogenesis of missense variants of GJB2. This study mainly focused on R143W variant that causes hearing loss, and investigated the relationship between amino acid substitution and 3-D structural changes in GJB2. METHODS Patients with nonsyndromic hearing loss who appeared to have two GJB2 pathogenic variants, including the R143W variant, were investigated. Because the X-ray crystal structure of the six protomers of the GJB2 protein is known, R143W and structurally related variants of GJB2 were modeled using this crystal structure as a template. The wild-type crystal structure and the variant computer-aided model were observed and the differences in molecular interactions within the two were analyzed. RESULTS The predicted structure demonstrated that the hydrogen bond between R143 and N206 was important for the stability of the protomer structure. From this prediction, R143W related N206S and N206T variants showed loss of the hydrogen bond. CONCLUSION Investigation of the genotypes and clinical data in patients carrying the R143W variant on an allele indicated that severity of hearing loss depends largely on the levels of dysfunction of the pathogenic variant on the allele, whereas a patient with the homozygous R143W variant demonstrated profound hearing loss. We concluded that these hearing impairments may be due to destabilization of the protomer structure of GJB2 caused by the R143W variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Namba
- Division of Hearing and Balance Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, NHO Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
| | - Hideki Mutai
- Division of Hearing and Balance Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, NHO Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Matsunaga
- Division of Hearing and Balance Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, NHO Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
- Medical Genetics Center, NHO Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kaneko
- Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, 7-6-8 Saito-Asagi, Ibaraki, Osaka, 567-0085, Japan.
- The Institute of Natural Sciences, College of Humanities and Sciences, Nihon University, 3-25-40 Sakurajousui, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8550, Japan.
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Héja L, Simon Á, Kardos J. Simulation of gap junction formation reveals critical role of Cys disulfide redox state in connexin hemichannel docking. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:185. [PMID: 38500186 PMCID: PMC10949817 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01439-z] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Héja
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Ágnes Simon
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Julianna Kardos
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
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Yu Y, Zhang J, Zhan Y, Luo G. A novel method for detecting nine hotspot mutations of deafness genes in one tube. Sci Rep 2024; 14:454. [PMID: 38172427 PMCID: PMC10764868 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50928-1] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Deafness is a common sensory disorder. In China, approximately 70% of hereditary deafness originates from four common deafness-causing genes: GJB2, SLC26A4, GJB3, and MT-RNR1. A single-tube rapid detection method based on 2D-PCR technology was established for nine mutation sites in the aforementioned genes, and Sanger sequencing was used to verify its reliability and accuracy. The frequency of hotspot mutations in deafness genes was analysed in 116 deaf students. 2D-PCR identified 27 genotypes of nine loci according to the melting curve of the FAM, HEX, and Alexa568 fluorescence channels. Of the 116 deaf patients, 12.9% (15/116) carried SLC26A4 mutations, including c.919-2A > G and c.2168A > G (allele frequencies, 7.3% and 2.2%, respectively). The positivity rate (29.3%; 34/116) was highest for GJB2 (allele frequency, 15.9% for c.235delC, 6.0% for c.299_300delAT, and 2.6% for c.176-191del16). Sanger sequencing confirmed the consistency of results between the detection methods based on 2D-PCR and DNA sequencing. Common pathogenic mutations in patients with non-syndromic deafness in Changzhou were concentrated in GJB2 (c.235delC, c.299_300delAT, and c.176-191del16) and SLC26A4 (c.919-2A > G and c.2168 A > G). 2D-PCR is an effective method for accurately and rapidly identifying deafness-related genotypes using a single-tube reaction, and is superior to DNA sequencing, which has a high cost and long cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- Comprehensive Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Comprehensive Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxia Zhan
- Comprehensive Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghua Luo
- Comprehensive Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213003, People's Republic of China.
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Posukh OL, Maslova EA, Danilchenko VY, Zytsar MV, Orishchenko KE. Functional Consequences of Pathogenic Variants of the GJB2 Gene (Cx26) Localized in Different Cx26 Domains. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1521. [PMID: 37892203 PMCID: PMC10604905 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most common forms of genetic deafness has been predominantly associated with pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene, encoding transmembrane protein connexin 26 (Cx26). The Cx26 molecule consists of an N-terminal domain (NT), four transmembrane domains (TM1-TM4), two extracellular loops (EL1 and EL2), a cytoplasmic loop, and a C-terminus (CT). Pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene, resulting in amino acid substitutions scattered across the Cx26 domains, lead to a variety of clinical outcomes, including the most common non-syndromic autosomal recessive deafness (DFNB1A), autosomal dominant deafness (DFNA3A), as well as syndromic forms combining hearing loss and skin disorders. However, for rare and poorly documented variants, information on the mode of inheritance is often lacking. Numerous in vitro studies have been conducted to elucidate the functional consequences of pathogenic GJB2 variants leading to amino acid substitutions in different domains of Cx26 protein. In this work, we summarized all available data on a mode of inheritance of pathogenic GJB2 variants leading to amino acid substitutions and reviewed published information on their functional effects, with an emphasis on their localization in certain Cx26 domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga L. Posukh
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A. Maslova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Valeriia Yu. Danilchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Marina V. Zytsar
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
| | - Konstantin E. Orishchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
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Basha S, Mukunda DC, Rodrigues J, Gail D'Souza M, Gangadharan G, Pai AR, Mahato KK. A comprehensive review of protein misfolding disorders, underlying mechanism, clinical diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:102017. [PMID: 37468112 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proteins are the most common biological macromolecules in living system and are building blocks of life. They are extremely dynamic in structure and functions. Due to several modifications, proteins undergo misfolding, leading to aggregation and thereby developing neurodegenerative and systemic diseases. Understanding the pathology of these diseases and the techniques used to diagnose them is therefore crucial for their effective management . There are several techniques, currently being in use to diagnose them and those will be discussed in this review. AIM/OBJECTIVES Current review aims to discuss an overview of protein aggregation and the underlying mechanisms linked to neurodegeneration and systemic diseases. Also, the review highlights protein misfolding disorders, their clinical diagnosis, and treatment strategies. METHODOLOGY Literature related to neurodegenerative and systemic diseases was explored through PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Medline databases. The keywords used for literature survey and analysis are protein aggregation, neurodegenerative disorders, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, systemic diseases, protein aggregation mechanisms, etc. DISCUSSION /CONCLUSION: This review summarises the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative and systemic disorders caused by protein misfolding and aggregation. The clinical diagnosis and therapeutic strategies adopted for the management of these diseases are also discussed to aid in a better understanding of protein misfolding disorders. Many significant concerns about the role, characteristics, and consequences of protein aggregates in neurodegenerative and systemic diseases are not clearly understood to date. Regardless of technological advancements, there are still great difficulties in the management and cure of these diseases. Therefore, for better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of neurodegenerative and systemic diseases, more studies to identify novel drugs that may aid in their treatment and management are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaik Basha
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Jackson Rodrigues
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Meagan Gail D'Souza
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Gireesh Gangadharan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Aparna Ramakrishna Pai
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College - Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Krishna Kishore Mahato
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India.
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6
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Zong YJ, Liu XZ, Tu L, Sun Y. Cytomembrane Trafficking Pathways of Connexin 26, 30, and 43. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10349. [PMID: 37373495 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The connexin gene family is the most prevalent gene that contributes to hearing loss. Connexins 26 and 30, encoded by GJB2 and GJB6, respectively, are the most abundantly expressed connexins in the inner ear. Connexin 43, which is encoded by GJA1, appears to be widely expressed in various organs, including the heart, skin, the brain, and the inner ear. The mutations that arise in GJB2, GJB6, and GJA1 can all result in comprehensive or non-comprehensive genetic deafness in newborns. As it is predicted that connexins include at least 20 isoforms in humans, the biosynthesis, structural composition, and degradation of connexins must be precisely regulated so that the gap junctions can properly operate. Certain mutations result in connexins possessing a faulty subcellular localization, failing to transport to the cell membrane and preventing gap junction formation, ultimately leading to connexin dysfunction and hearing loss. In this review, we provide a discussion of the transport models for connexin 43, connexins 30 and 26, mutations affecting trafficking pathways of these connexins, the existing controversies in the trafficking pathways of connexins, and the molecules involved in connexin trafficking and their functions. This review can contribute to a new way of understanding the etiological principles of connexin mutations and finding therapeutic strategies for hereditary deafness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jun Zong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Xiao-Zhou Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Lei Tu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Development and Regeneration, Wuhan 430022, China
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7
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Mao L, Wang Y, An L, Zeng B, Wang Y, Frishman D, Liu M, Chen Y, Tang W, Xu H. Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Phenotypes of GJB2 Missense Variants. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040505. [PMID: 37106706 PMCID: PMC10135792 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The GJB2 gene is the most common gene responsible for hearing loss (HL) worldwide, and missense variants are the most abundant type. GJB2 pathogenic missense variants cause nonsyndromic HL (autosomal recessive and dominant) and syndromic HL combined with skin diseases. However, the mechanism by which these different missense variants cause the different phenotypes is unknown. Over 2/3 of the GJB2 missense variants have yet to be functionally studied and are currently classified as variants of uncertain significance (VUS). Based on these functionally determined missense variants, we reviewed the clinical phenotypes and investigated the molecular mechanisms that affected hemichannel and gap junction functions, including connexin biosynthesis, trafficking, oligomerization into connexons, permeability, and interactions between other coexpressed connexins. We predict that all possible GJB2 missense variants will be described in the future by deep mutational scanning technology and optimizing computational models. Therefore, the mechanisms by which different missense variants cause different phenotypes will be fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Mao
- Precision Medicine Center, Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Yueqiang Wang
- Basecare Medical Device Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215000, China
| | - Lei An
- Translational Medicine Center, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, China
| | - Beiping Zeng
- Precision Medicine Center, Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Yanyan Wang
- The Research and Application Center of Precision Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, China
| | - Dmitrij Frishman
- Wissenschaftszentrum Weihenstephan, Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Am Staudengarten 2, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Mengli Liu
- Precision Medicine Center, Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Yanyu Chen
- Precision Medicine Center, Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Wenxue Tang
- The Research and Application Center of Precision Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, China
| | - Hongen Xu
- Precision Medicine Center, Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
- The Research and Application Center of Precision Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, China
- Correspondence:
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Khan AK, Jagielnicki M, Bennett BC, Purdy MD, Yeager M. Cryo-EM structure of an open conformation of a gap junction hemichannel in lipid bilayer nanodiscs. Structure 2021; 29:1040-1047.e3. [PMID: 34129834 PMCID: PMC9616683 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
To mediate cell-to-cell communication via gap junction channels (GJCs), connexins (Cx) traffic as hexameric hemichannels to the plasma membrane, which dock end-to-end between adjacent cell membranes, thereby forming a dodecameric intercellular conduit. Hemichannels also function independently to mediate the passage of contents between the cytoplasm and extracellular space. To generate hemichannels, the mutation N176Y was introduced into the second extracellular loop of Cx26. The electron cryomicroscopy structure of the hexameric hemichannel in lipid bilayer nanodiscs displays an open pore and a 4-helix bundle transmembrane design that is nearly identical to dodecameric GJCs. In contrast to the high resolution of the transmembrane α-helices, the extracellular loops are less well resolved. The conformational flexibility of the extracellular loops may be essential to facilitate surveillance of hemichannels in apposed cells to identify compatible Cx isoforms that enable intercellular docking. Our results also provide a structural foundation for previous electrophysiologic and permeation studies of Cx hemichannels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali K Khan
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Sheridan G. Snyder Translational Research Building, Rm 320, 480 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Maciej Jagielnicki
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Sheridan G. Snyder Translational Research Building, Rm 320, 480 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Brad C Bennett
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Sheridan G. Snyder Translational Research Building, Rm 320, 480 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Michael D Purdy
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Sheridan G. Snyder Translational Research Building, Rm 320, 480 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Mark Yeager
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Sheridan G. Snyder Translational Research Building, Rm 320, 480 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; Center for Membrane Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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Machine learning-based genetic diagnosis models for hereditary hearing loss by the GJB2, SLC26A4 and MT-RNR1 variants. EBioMedicine 2021; 69:103322. [PMID: 34161886 PMCID: PMC8237285 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103322] [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: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hereditary hearing loss (HHL) is the most common sensory deficit, which highly afflicts humans. With gene sequencing technology development, more variants will be identified and support genetic diagnoses, which is difficult for human experts to diagnose. This study aims to develop a machine learning-based genetic diagnosis model of HHL-related variants of GJB2, SLC26A4 and MT-RNR1. Methods This case-control study included 1898 subjects, among which 1354 were HHL patients and 544 were carriers. Risk assessment models were established based on variants at 144 sites in three genes related to HHL by building six machine learning (ML) models. We compared the ML models with the genetic risk score (GRS) and expert interpretation (EI) to verify the clinical performance. Findings Among the six ML models, the support vector machine (SVM) showed the best performance. For the prediction of HHL-related gene sites in subjects with variants, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) of the SVM model was 0.803 (0.680–0.814) in the 10-fold stratified cross-validation and 0.751 (0.635–0.779) in external validation. The predicted results were better than both EI and GRS. Furthermore, 11 sites were identified as the smallest feature set that can be accurately predicted. Interpretation The developed SVM model has great potential to be an efficient and effective tool for HHL prediction when high throughput sequencing data are available.
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Kordowitzki P, Sokołowska G, Wasielak-Politowska M, Skowronska A, Skowronski MT. Pannexins and Connexins: Their Relevance for Oocyte Developmental Competence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115918. [PMID: 34072911 PMCID: PMC8199496 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The oocyte is the major determinant of embryo developmental competence in all mammalian species. Although fundamental advances have been generated in the field of reproductive medicine and assisted reproductive technologies in the past three decades, researchers and clinicians are still trying to elucidate molecular factors and pathways, which could be pivotal for the oocyte’s developmental competence. The cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix communications are crucial not only for oocytes but also for multicellular organisms in general. This latter mentioned communication is among others possibly due to the Connexin and Pannexin families of large-pore forming channels. Pannexins belong to a protein group of ATP-release channels, therefore of high importance for the oocyte due to its requirements of high energy supply. An increasing body of studies on Pannexins provided evidence that these channels not only play a role during physiological processes of an oocyte but also during pathological circumstances which could lead to the development of diseases or infertility. Connexins are proteins that form membrane channels and gap-junctions, and more precisely, these proteins enable the exchange of some ions and molecules, and therefore they do play a fundamental role in the communication between the oocyte and accompanying cells. Herein, the role of Pannexins and Connexins for the processes of oogenesis, folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation and fertilization will be discussed and, at the end of this review, Pannexin and Connexin related pathologies and their impact on the developmental competence of oocytes will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Kordowitzki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Bydgoska Street 7, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland;
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina Street 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Gabriela Sokołowska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Jana Kilińskiego Street 1, 15-089 Białystok, Poland;
| | - Marta Wasielak-Politowska
- Center of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine—Artemida, Jagiellońska Street 78, 10-357 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Skowronska
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Warszawska Street 30, 10-357 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Mariusz T. Skowronski
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina Street 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-566-112-231
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Identification and Characterization of a Cryptic Genomic Deletion-Insertion in EYA1 Associated with Branchio-Otic Syndrome. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:5524381. [PMID: 33880118 PMCID: PMC8046558 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5524381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Branchio-oto-renal spectrum disorder (BORSD) is characterized by hearing loss accompanied by ear malformations, branchial cysts, and fistulae, with (branchio-oto-renal syndrome (BORS)) or without renal abnormalities (BOS (branchio-otic syndrome)). As the most common causative gene for BORSD, dominant mutations in EYA1 are responsible for approximately 40% of the cases. In a sporadic deaf patient diagnosed as BOS, we identified an apparent heterozygous genomic deletion spanning the first four coding exons and one 5′ noncoding exon of EYA1 by targeted next-generation sequencing of 406 known deafness genes. Real-time PCR at multiple regions of EYA1 confirmed the existence of this genomic deletion and extended its 5′ boundary beyond the 5′-UTR. Whole genome sequencing subsequently located the 5′ and 3′ breakpoints to 19268 bp upstream to the ATG initiation codon and 3180 bp downstream to exon 5. PCR amplification across the breakpoints in both the patient and his parents showed that the genomic alteration occurred de novo. Sanger sequencing of this PCR product revealed that it is in fact a GRCh38/hg38:chr8:g.71318554_71374171delinsTGCC genomic deletion-insertion. Our results showed that the genomic variant is responsible for the hearing loss associated with BOS and provided an example for deciphering such cryptic genomic alterations following pipelines of comprehensive exome/genome sequencing and designed verification.
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Maslova EA, Orishchenko KE, Posukh OL. Functional Evaluation of a Rare Variant c.516G>C (p.Trp172Cys) in the GJB2 (Connexin 26) Gene Associated with Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss. Biomolecules 2021; 11:61. [PMID: 33466560 PMCID: PMC7824951 DOI: 10.3390/biom11010061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the GJB2 gene encoding transmembrane protein connexin 26 (Cx26) are the most common cause for hearing loss worldwide. Cx26 plays a crucial role in the ionic and metabolic homeostasis in the inner ear, indispensable for normal hearing process. Different pathogenic mutations in the GJB2 gene can affect all stages of the Cx26 life cycle and result in nonsyndromic autosomal recessive (DFNB1) or dominant (DFNA3) deafness and syndromes associating hearing loss with skin disorders. This study aims to elucidate the functional consequences of a rare GJB2 variant c.516G>C (p.Trp172Cys) found with high frequency in deaf patients from indigenous populations of Southern Siberia (Russia). The substitution c.516G>C leads to the replacement of tryptophan at a conserved amino acid position 172 with cysteine (p.Trp172Cys) in the second extracellular loop of Cx26 protein. We analyzed the subcellular localization of mutant Cx26-p.Trp172Cys protein by immunocytochemistry and the hemichannels permeability by dye loading assay. The GJB2 knockout HeLa cell line has been generated using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing tool. Subsequently, the HeLa transgenic cell lines stably expressing different GJB2 variants (wild type and mutations associated with hearing loss) were established based on knockout cells and used for comparative functional analysis. The impaired trafficking of mutant Cx26-p.Trp172Cys protein to the plasma membrane and reduced hemichannels permeability support the pathogenic effect of the c.516G>C (p.Trp172Cys) variant and its association with nonsyndromic hearing loss. Our data contribute to a better understanding of the role of mutations in the second extracellular loop of Cx26 protein in pathogenesis of deafness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina A. Maslova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; (E.A.M.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Konstantin E. Orishchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; (E.A.M.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Olga L. Posukh
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; (E.A.M.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
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13
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Defourny J, Thiry M. Tricellular adherens junctions provide a cell surface delivery platform for connexin 26/30 oligomers in the cochlea. Hear Res 2020; 400:108137. [PMID: 33291008 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.108137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the cochlea, connexins 26 (Cx26) and 30 (Cx30) largely co-assemble into heteromeric gap junctions, which connect adjacent non-sensory epithelial cells. These channels are believed to ensure the rapid removal of K+ away from the base of sensory hair cells, resulting in K+ recycling back to the endolymph to maintain cochlear homeostasis. Many of the mutations in GJB2 and GJB6, which encode CX26 and CX30, impair the formation of membrane channels and cause autosomal hearing loss in humans. Although recent advances have been made, several important questions remain about connexin trafficking and gap junction biogenesis. Here we show that tricellular adherens junctions present at the crossroad between adjacent gap junction plaques, provide an unexpected cell surface delivery platform for Cx26/Cx30 oligomers. Using an in situ proximity ligation assay, we detected the presence of non-junctional Cx26/Cx30 oligomers within lipid raft-enriched tricellular junction sites. In addition, we observed that cadherin homophilic interactions are critically involved in microtubule-mediated trafficking of Cx26/Cx30 oligomers to the cell surface. Overall, our results unveil an unexpected role for tricellular junctions in the trafficking and assembly of membrane channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Defourny
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, C.H.U B36, B-4000 Liège, Belgium.
| | - Marc Thiry
- GIGA-Neurosciences, Unit of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of Liège, C.H.U B36, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
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14
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Kanavy DM, McNulty SM, Jairath MK, Brnich SE, Bizon C, Powell BC, Berg JS. Comparative analysis of functional assay evidence use by ClinGen Variant Curation Expert Panels. Genome Med 2019; 11:77. [PMID: 31783775 PMCID: PMC6884856 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-019-0683-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2015 American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) and the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) guidelines for clinical sequence variant interpretation state that "well-established" functional studies can be used as evidence in variant classification. These guidelines articulated key attributes of functional data, including that assays should reflect the biological environment and be analytically sound; however, details of how to evaluate these attributes were left to expert judgment. The Clinical Genome Resource (ClinGen) designates Variant Curation Expert Panels (VCEPs) in specific disease areas to make gene-centric specifications to the ACMG/AMP guidelines, including more specific definitions of appropriate functional assays. We set out to evaluate the existing VCEP guidelines for functional assays. METHODS We evaluated the functional criteria (PS3/BS3) of six VCEPs (CDH1, Hearing Loss, Inherited Cardiomyopathy-MYH7, PAH, PTEN, RASopathy). We then established criteria for evaluating functional studies based on disease mechanism, general class of assay, and the characteristics of specific assay instances described in the primary literature. Using these criteria, we extensively curated assay instances cited by each VCEP in their pilot variant classification to analyze VCEP recommendations and their use in the interpretation of functional studies. RESULTS Unsurprisingly, our analysis highlighted the breadth of VCEP-approved assays, reflecting the diversity of disease mechanisms among VCEPs. We also noted substantial variability between VCEPs in the method used to select these assays and in the approach used to specify strength modifications, as well as differences in suggested validation parameters. Importantly, we observed discrepancies between the parameters VCEPs specified as required for approved assay instances and the fulfillment of these requirements in the individual assays cited in pilot variant interpretation. CONCLUSIONS Interpretation of the intricacies of functional assays often requires expert-level knowledge of the gene and disease, and current VCEP recommendations for functional assay evidence are a useful tool to improve the accessibility of functional data by providing a starting point for curators to identify approved functional assays and key metrics. However, our analysis suggests that further guidance is needed to standardize this process and ensure consistency in the application of functional evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dona M Kanavy
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Shannon M McNulty
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Meera K Jairath
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sarah E Brnich
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chris Bizon
- Renaissance Computing Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bradford C Powell
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jonathan S Berg
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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15
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Wang H, Stahl F, Scheper T, Steffens M, Warnecke A, Zeilinger C. Microarray-based screening system identifies temperature-controlled activity of Connexin 26 that is distorted by mutations. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13543. [PMID: 31537823 PMCID: PMC6753059 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49423-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we show that human Connexin 26 (hCx26 or Cx26WT) hemichannel opening rapidly enables the transport of small molecules when triggered by temperature and by compensation of the Ca2+ blockade with EDTA. Point mutations within Cx26 were analysed by a novel optical microarray-based Lucifer Yellow uptake assay or by two electrode voltage clamp (TEVC) on frog oocytes to monitor simultaneous activities of channel proteins. Point mutations L90P, F161S, R184P or K188N influenced the temperature-dependent activity drastically. Since several mutations blocked trafficking, the temperature-dependent activity of the recombinant synthesized and purified wild-type Cx26WT and Cx26K188N hemichannel was tested by liposome flux assay (LFA) and on a microarray-based Lucifer Yellow uptake assay under warm conditions (>30 °C). The data from TEVC measurements and dye flux experiments showed that the mutations gave no or only a weak activity at increased temperature (>30 °C). We conclude that the position K188 in the Cx26WT forms a temperature-sensitive salt bridge with E47 whereas the exchange to K188N destabilizes the network loop- gating filter, which was recently identified as a part of the flexible Ca2+ binding site. We assume that the temperature sensitivity of Cx26 is required to protect cells from uncontrolled release or uptake activities through Cx26 hemichannels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongling Wang
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head- and Neck-Surgery, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.,Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz University of Hannover, BMWZ (Zentrum für Biomolekulare Wirkstoffe), Schneiderberg 38, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - Frank Stahl
- Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz University of Hannover, Institut für Technische Chemie/BMWZ (Zentrum für Biomolekulare Wirkstoffe), Callinstr. 5, 30167, Hannover, Germany.,Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz University of Hannover, BMWZ (Zentrum für Biomolekulare Wirkstoffe), Schneiderberg 38, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Scheper
- Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz University of Hannover, Institut für Technische Chemie/BMWZ (Zentrum für Biomolekulare Wirkstoffe), Callinstr. 5, 30167, Hannover, Germany.,Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz University of Hannover, BMWZ (Zentrum für Biomolekulare Wirkstoffe), Schneiderberg 38, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - Melanie Steffens
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head- and Neck-Surgery, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Athanasia Warnecke
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head- and Neck-Surgery, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence EXC1077 "Hearing4all", German Research Foundation (DFG; "Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft"), Hannover, Germany
| | - Carsten Zeilinger
- Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz University of Hannover, BMWZ (Zentrum für Biomolekulare Wirkstoffe), Schneiderberg 38, 30167, Hannover, Germany.
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16
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Oza AM, DiStefano MT, Hemphill SE, Cushman BJ, Grant AR, Siegert RK, Shen J, Chapin A, Boczek NJ, Schimmenti LA, Murry JB, Hasadsri L, Nara K, Kenna M, Booth KT, Azaiez H, Griffith A, Avraham KB, Kremer H, Rehm HL, Amr SS, Abou Tayoun AN. Expert specification of the ACMG/AMP variant interpretation guidelines for genetic hearing loss. Hum Mutat 2019; 39:1593-1613. [PMID: 30311386 DOI: 10.1002/humu.23630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Due to the high genetic heterogeneity of hearing loss (HL), current clinical testing includes sequencing large numbers of genes, which often yields a significant number of novel variants. Therefore, the standardization of variant interpretation is crucial to provide consistent and accurate diagnoses. The Hearing Loss Variant Curation Expert Panel was created within the Clinical Genome Resource to provide expert guidance for standardized genomic interpretation in the context of HL. As one of its major tasks, our Expert Panel has adapted the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics/Association for Molecular Pathology (ACMG/AMP) guidelines for the interpretation of sequence variants in HL genes. Here, we provide a comprehensive illustration of the newly specified ACMG/AMP HL rules. Three rules remained unchanged, four rules were removed, and the remaining 21 rules were specified. These rules were further validated and refined using a pilot set of 51 variants assessed by curators and disease experts. Of the 51 variants evaluated in the pilot, 37% (19/51) changed category based upon application of the expert panel specified rules and/or aggregation of evidence across laboratories. These HL-specific ACMG/AMP rules will help standardize variant interpretation, ultimately leading to better care for individuals with HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M Oza
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts.,Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Enhancement, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marina T DiStefano
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sarah E Hemphill
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Brandon J Cushman
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew R Grant
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Rebecca K Siegert
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Jun Shen
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Pathology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Nicole J Boczek
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Lisa A Schimmenti
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Clinical Genomics and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jaclyn B Murry
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Linda Hasadsri
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Kiyomitsu Nara
- Division of Hearing and Balance Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Margaret Kenna
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Enhancement, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kevin T Booth
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.,The Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Hela Azaiez
- Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Andrew Griffith
- Audiology Unit, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Karen B Avraham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Hannie Kremer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Heidi L Rehm
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Sami S Amr
- Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Partners Healthcare Personalized Medicine, Cambridge, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Pathology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ahmad N Abou Tayoun
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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17
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Defourny J, Thelen N, Thiry M. Actin-independent trafficking of cochlear connexin 26 to non-lipid raft gap junction plaques. Hear Res 2019; 374:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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18
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Albano JMR, Mussini N, Toriano R, Facelli JC, Ferraro MB, Pickholz M. Calcium interactions with Cx26 hemmichannel: Spatial association between MD simulations biding sites and variant pathogenicity. Comput Biol Chem 2018; 77:331-342. [PMID: 30466042 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Connexinophaties are a collective of diseases related to connexin channels and hemichannels. In particular many Cx26 alterations are strongly associated to human deafness. Calcium plays an important role on this structures regulation. Here, using calcium as a probe, extensive atomistic Molecular Dynamics simulations were performed on the Cx26 hemichannel embedded in a lipid bilayer. Exploring different initial conditions and calcium concentration, simulation reached ∼4 μs. Several analysis were carried out in order to reveal the calcium distribution and localization, such as electron density profiles, density maps and distance time evolution, which is directly associated to the interaction energy. Specific amino acid interactions with calcium and their stability were capture within this context. Few of these sites such as, GLU42, GLU47, GLY45 and ASP50, were already suggested in the literature. Besides, we identified novel calcium biding sites: ASP2, ASP117, ASP159, GLU114, GLU119, GLU120 and VAL226. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that these sites are reported within this context. Furthermore, since various pathologies involving the Cx26 hemichannel are associated with pathogenic variants in the corresponding CJB2 gene, using ClinVar, we were able to spatially associate the 3D positions of the identified calcium binding sites within the framework of this work with reported pathogenic variants in the CJB2 gene. This study presents a first step on finding associations between molecular features and pathological variants of the Cx26 hemichannel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M R Albano
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nahuel Mussini
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Roxana Toriano
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Laboratorio de Biomembranas, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBIO Houssay, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julio C Facelli
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Utah, 421 Wakara Way, Suite 140, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.
| | - Marta B Ferraro
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mónica Pickholz
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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19
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del Castillo FJ, del Castillo I. DFNB1 Non-syndromic Hearing Impairment: Diversity of Mutations and Associated Phenotypes. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:428. [PMID: 29311818 PMCID: PMC5743749 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The inner ear is a very complex sensory organ whose development and function depend on finely balanced interactions among diverse cell types. The many different kinds of inner ear supporting cells play the essential roles of providing physical and physiological support to sensory hair cells and of maintaining cochlear homeostasis. Appropriately enough, the gene most commonly mutated among subjects with hereditary hearing impairment (HI), GJB2, encodes the connexin-26 (Cx26) gap-junction channel protein that underlies both intercellular communication among supporting cells and homeostasis of the cochlear fluids, endolymph and perilymph. GJB2 lies at the DFNB1 locus on 13q12. The specific kind of HI associated with this locus is caused by recessively-inherited mutations that inactivate the two alleles of the GJB2 gene, either in homozygous or compound heterozygous states. We describe the many diverse classes of genetic alterations that result in DFNB1 HI, such as large deletions that either destroy the GJB2 gene or remove a regulatory element essential for GJB2 expression, point mutations that interfere with promoter function or splicing, and small insertions or deletions and nucleotide substitutions that target the GJB2 coding sequence. We focus on how these alterations disrupt GJB2 and Cx26 functions and on their different effects on cochlear development and physiology. We finally discuss the diversity of clinical features of DFNB1 HI as regards severity, age of onset, inner ear malformations and vestibular dysfunction, highlighting the areas where future research should be concentrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J. del Castillo
- Servicio de Genética, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio del Castillo
- Servicio de Genética, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
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20
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Rodriguez-Paris J, Waldhaus J, Gordhandas JA, Pique L, Schrijver I. Comparative functional characterization of novel non-syndromic GJB2 gene variant p.Gly45Arg and lethal syndromic variant p.Gly45Glu. PeerJ 2016; 4:e2494. [PMID: 27761313 PMCID: PMC5068369 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We characterized a novel GJB2 missense variant, c.133G>A, p.Gly45Arg, and compared it with the only other variant at the same amino acid position of the connexin 26 protein (Cx26) reported to date: c.134G>A, p.Gly45Glu. Whereas both variants are associated with hearing loss and are dominantly inherited, p.Gly45Glu has been implicated in the rare fatal keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness (KID) syndrome, which results in cutaneous infections and septicemia with premature demise in the first year of life. In contrast, p.Gly45Arg appears to be non-syndromic. Subcellular localization experiments in transiently co-transfected HeLa cells demonstrated that Cx26-WT (wild-type) and p.Gly45Arg form gap junctions, whereas Cx26-WT with p.Gly45Glu protein does not. The substitution of a nonpolar amino acid glycine in wildtype Cx26 at position 45 with a negatively charged glutamic acid (acidic) has previously been shown to interfere with Ca2+ regulation of hemichannel gating and to inhibit the formation of gap junctions, resulting in cell death. The novel variant p.Gly45Arg, however, changes this glycine to a positively charged arginine (basic), resulting in the formation of dysfunctional gap junctions that selectively affect the permeation of negatively charged inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and contribute to hearing loss. Cx26 p.Gly45Arg transfected cells, unlike cells transfected with p.Gly45Glu, thrived at physiologic Ca2+ concentrations, suggesting that Ca2+ regulation of hemichannel gating is unaffected in Cx26 p.Gly45Arg transfected cells. Thus, the two oppositely charged amino acids that replace the highly conserved uncharged glycine in p.Gly45Glu and p.Gly45Arg, respectively, produce strikingly different effects on the structure and function of the Cx26 protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Rodriguez-Paris
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Jörg Waldhaus
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Jeenal A Gordhandas
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Lynn Pique
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Iris Schrijver
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America.,Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
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21
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García IE, Prado P, Pupo A, Jara O, Rojas-Gómez D, Mujica P, Flores-Muñoz C, González-Casanova J, Soto-Riveros C, Pinto BI, Retamal MA, González C, Martínez AD. Connexinopathies: a structural and functional glimpse. BMC Cell Biol 2016; 17 Suppl 1:17. [PMID: 27228968 PMCID: PMC4896260 DOI: 10.1186/s12860-016-0092-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in human connexin (Cx) genes have been related to diseases, which we termed connexinopathies. Such hereditary disorders include nonsyndromic or syndromic deafness (Cx26, Cx30), Charcot Marie Tooth disease (Cx32), occulodentodigital dysplasia and cardiopathies (Cx43), and cataracts (Cx46, Cx50). Despite the clinical phenotypes of connexinopathies have been well documented, their pathogenic molecular determinants remain elusive. The purpose of this work is to identify common/uncommon patterns in channels function among Cx mutations linked to human diseases. To this end, we compiled and discussed the effect of mutations associated to Cx26, Cx32, Cx43, and Cx50 over gap junction channels and hemichannels, highlighting the function of the structural channel domains in which mutations are located and their possible role affecting oligomerization, gating and perm/selectivity processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac E García
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Pavel Prado
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Amaury Pupo
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Oscar Jara
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Diana Rojas-Gómez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Paula Mujica
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Carolina Flores-Muñoz
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Jorge González-Casanova
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Carolina Soto-Riveros
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Bernardo I Pinto
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Mauricio A Retamal
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos González
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Agustín D Martínez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile.
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22
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Meckes B, Ambrosi C, Barnard H, Arce FT, Sosinsky GE, Lal R. Atomic force microscopy shows connexin26 hemichannel clustering in purified membrane fragments. Biochemistry 2014; 53:7407-14. [PMID: 25365227 PMCID: PMC4255643 DOI: 10.1021/bi501265p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
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Connexin
proteins form hexameric assemblies known as hemichannels.
When docked to form gap junction (GJ) channels, hemichannels play
a critical role in cell–cell communication and cellular homeostasis,
but often are functional entities on their own in unapposed cell membranes.
Defects in the Connexin26 (Cx26) gene are the major cause of hereditary
deafness arising from dysfunctional hemichannels in the cochlea. Structural
studies of Cx26 hemichannels properly trafficked and inserted in plasma
membranes, including their clustering that forms a plaque-like feature
in whole gap junctions, are limited. We used atomic force microscopy
(AFM) to study the surface topography of Cx26 hemichannels using two
different membrane preparations. Rat Cx26 containing appended carboxy
terminal V5 and hexahistidine tags were expressed in baculovirus/Sf9
cell systems. The expressed Cx26 proteins form hemichannels in situ
in Sf9 cells that were then purified either as (1) Sf9 membrane fragments
containing Cx26 hemichannels or (2) solubilized hemichannels. The
latter were subsequently reconstituted in liposomes. AFM images of
purified membrane fragments showed clusters of protein macromolecular
structures in the membrane that at higher magnification corresponded
to Cx26 hemichannels. Hemichannels reconstituted into DOPC bilayers
displayed two populations of channel heights likely resulting from
differences in orientations of inserted hemichannels. Hemichannels
in the protein rich portions of purified membranes also showed a reduced
channel height above the bilayer compared to membranes with reconstituted
hemichannels perhaps due to reduced AFM probe access to the lipid
bilayer. These preparations of purified membranes enriched for connexin
hemichannels that have been properly trafficked and inserted in membranes
provide a platform for high-resolution AFM imaging of the structure,
interconnexon interactions, and cooperativity of properly trafficked
and inserted noncrystalline connexin hemichannels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Meckes
- Department of Bioengineering, ‡National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, §Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, ∥Department of Neurosciences, and ⊥Materials Science Program, University of California San Diego , 9500 Gillman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
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23
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Koval M, Molina SA, Burt JM. Mix and match: investigating heteromeric and heterotypic gap junction channels in model systems and native tissues. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1193-204. [PMID: 24561196 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review is based in part on a roundtable discussion session: "Physiological roles for heterotypic/heteromeric channels" at the 2013 International Gap Junction Conference (IGJC 2013) in Charleston, South Carolina. It is well recognized that multiple connexins can specifically co-assemble to form mixed gap junction channels with unique properties as a means to regulate intercellular communication. Compatibility determinants for both heteromeric and heterotypic gap junction channel formation have been identified and associated with specific connexin amino acid motifs. Hetero-oligomerization is also a regulated process; differences in connexin quality control and monomer stability are likely to play integral roles to control interactions between compatible connexins. Gap junctions in oligodendrocyte:astrocyte communication and in the cardiovascular system have emerged as key systems where heterotypic and heteromeric channels have unique physiologic roles. There are several methodologies to study heteromeric and heterotypic channels that are best applied to either heterologous expression systems, native tissues or both. There remains a need to use and develop different experimental approaches in order to understand the prevalence and roles for mixed gap junction channels in human physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Koval
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.
| | - Samuel A Molina
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Janis M Burt
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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24
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A novel homozygous mutation in the EC1/EC2 interaction domain of the gap junction complex connexon 26 leads to profound hearing impairment. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:307976. [PMID: 24551843 PMCID: PMC3914288 DOI: 10.1155/2014/307976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
To date, about 165 genetic loci or genes have been identified which are associated with nonsyndromal hearing impairment. In about half the cases, genetic defects in the GJB2 gene (connexin 26) are the most common cause of inner-ear deafness. The genes GJB2 and GJB6 are localized on chromosome 13q11-12 in tandem orientation. Connexins belong to the group of "gap junction" proteins, which form connexons, each consisting of six connexin molecules. These are responsible for the exchange of ions and smaller molecules between neighboring cells. Mutational analysis in genes GJB2 and GJB6 was brought by direct sequencing of the coding exons including the intron transitions. Here we show in the participating extended family a homozygous mutation c.506G>A, (TGC>TAC) p.Cys169Tyr, in the GJB2 gene, which could be proven for the first time and led to nonsyndromal severe hearing impairment in the afflicted patients. The mutation is located in the EC1/EC2 interaction complex of the gap junction connexon 26 complex and interrupts the K(+) circulation and therefore the ion homeostasis in the inner ear. The homozygous mutation p.Cys169Tyr identified here provides a novel insight into the structure-function relationship of the gap junction complex connexin/connexon 26.
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