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Korf HW, von Gall C. Mouse Models in Circadian Rhythm and Melatonin Research. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12986. [PMID: 38965880 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
This contribution reviews the role of inbred and transgenic mouse strains for deciphering the mammalian melatoninergic and circadian system. It focusses on the pineal organ as melatonin factory and two major targets of the melatoninergic system, the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) and the hypophysial pars tuberalis (PT). Mammalian pinealocytes sharing molecular characteristics with true pineal and retinal photoreceptors synthesize and secrete melatonin into the blood and cerebrospinal fluid night by night. Notably, neuron-like connections exist between the deep pinealocytes and the habenular/pretectal region suggesting direct pineal-brain communication. Control of melatonin biosynthesis in rodents involves transcriptional regulation including phosphorylation of CREB and upregulation of mPer1. In the SCN, melatonin acts upon MT1 and MT2 receptors. Melatonin is not necessary to maintain the rhythm of the SCN molecular clockwork, but it has distinct effects on the synchronization of the circadian rhythm by light, facilitates re-entrainment of the circadian system to phase advances in the level of the SCN molecular clockwork by acting upon MT2 receptors and plays a stabilizing role in the circadian system as evidenced from locomotor activity recordings. While the effects in the SCN are subtle, melatonin is essential for PT functions. Via the MT1 receptor it drives the PT-intrinsic molecular clockwork and the retrograde and anterograde output pathways controlling seasonal rhythmicity. Although inbred and transgenic mice do not show seasonal reproduction, the pathways from the PT are fully intact if the animals are melatonin proficient. Thus, only melatonin-proficient strains are suited to investigate the circadian and melatoninergic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horst-Werner Korf
- Institute of Anatomy I, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Charlotte von Gall
- Institute of Anatomy II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Bastedo WE, Scott RW, Arostegui M, Underhill TM. Single-cell analysis of mesenchymal cells in permeable neural vasculature reveals novel diverse subpopulations of fibroblasts. Fluids Barriers CNS 2024; 21:31. [PMID: 38575991 PMCID: PMC10996213 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-024-00535-7] [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: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the choroid plexus and pituitary gland, vasculature is known to have a permeable, fenestrated phenotype which allows for the free passage of molecules in contrast to the blood brain barrier observed in the rest of the CNS. The endothelium of these compartments, along with secretory, neural-lineage cells (choroid epithelium and pituitary endocrine cells) have been studied in detail, but less attention has been given to the perivascular mesenchymal cells of these compartments. METHODS The Hic1CreERT2 Rosa26LSL-TdTomato mouse model was used in conjunction with a PdgfraH2B-EGFP mouse model to examine mesenchymal cells, which can be subdivided into Pdgfra+ fibroblasts and Pdgfra- pericytes within the choroid plexus (CP) and pituitary gland (PG), by histological, immunofluorescence staining and single-cell RNA-sequencing analyses. RESULTS We found that both CP and PG possess substantial populations of distinct Hic1+ mesenchymal cells, including an abundance of Pdgfra+ fibroblasts. Within the pituitary, we identified distinct subpopulations of Hic1+ fibroblasts in the glandular anterior pituitary and the neurosecretory posterior pituitary. We also identified multiple distinct markers of CP, PG, and the meningeal mesenchymal compartment, including alkaline phosphatase, indole-n-methyltransferase and CD34. CONCLUSIONS Novel, distinct subpopulations of mesenchymal cells can be found in permeable vascular interfaces, including the CP, PG, and meninges, and make distinct contributions to both organs through the production of structural proteins, enzymes, transporters, and trophic molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Bastedo
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - R Wilder Scott
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Martin Arostegui
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - T Michael Underhill
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
- School of Biomedical Engineering and the Biomedical Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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Rath MF. Homeobox gene-encoded transcription factors in development and mature circadian function of the rodent pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12950. [PMID: 38558122 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Homeobox genes encode transcription factors that are widely known to control developmental processes. This is also the case in the pineal gland, a neuroendocrine brain structure devoted to nighttime synthesis of the hormone melatonin. Thus, in accordance with high prenatal gene expression, knockout studies have identified a specific set of homeobox genes that are essential for development of the pineal gland. However, as a special feature of the pineal gland, homeobox gene expression persists into adulthood, and gene product abundance exhibits 24 h circadian rhythms. Recent lines of evidence show that some homeobox genes even control expression of enzymes catalyzing melatonin synthesis. We here review current knowledge of homeobox genes in the rodent pineal gland and suggest a model for dual functions of homeobox gene-encoded transcription factors in developmental and circadian mature neuroendocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin F Rath
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Manoogian ENC, Bahiru MS, Wang EJ, Holder M, Bittman EL. Neuroendocrine effects of the duper mutation in Syrian hamsters: a role for Cryptochrome 1. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1351682. [PMID: 38444761 PMCID: PMC10912188 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1351682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Molecular and physiological determinants of the timing of reproductive events, including the pre-ovulatory LH surge and seasonal fluctuations in fertility, are incompletely understood. We used the Cryptochrome 1-deficient duper mutant to examine the role of this core circadian clock gene in Syrian hamsters. We find that the phase of the LH surge and its stability upon shifts of the light: dark cycle are altered in duper mutants. The intensity of immunoreactive PER1 in GnRH cells of the preoptic area peaks earlier in the day in duper than wild type hamsters. We note that GnRH fibers coursing through the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) contact vasopressin- and VIP-immunoreactive cells, suggesting a possible locus of circadian control of the LH surge. Unlike wild types, duper hamsters do not regress their gonads within 8 weeks of constant darkness, despite evidence of melatonin secretion during the subjective night. In light of the finding that the duper allele is a stop codon in Cryptochrome 1, our results suggest important neuroendocrine functions of this core circadian clock gene.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Eric L. Bittman
- Department of Biology and Program in Neuroscience, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
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5
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Zheng J, Song W, Zhou Y, Li X, Wang M, Zhang C. Cross-species single-cell landscape of vertebrate pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12927. [PMID: 38018267 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The pineal gland has evolved from a photoreceptive organ in fish to a neuroendocrine organ in mammals. This study integrated multiple daytime single-cell RNA-seq datasets from the pineal glands of zebrafish, rats, and monkeys, providing a detailed examination of the evolutionary transition at single-cell resolution. We identified key factors responsible for the anatomical and functional transformation of the pineal gland. We retrieved and integrated daytime single-cell transcriptomic datasets from the pineal glands of zebrafish, rats, and monkeys, resulting in a total of 22 431 cells after rigorous quality filtering. Comparative analysis was then conducted to elucidate the evolution of pineal cells, their photosensitivity, their role in melatonin production, and the signaling processes within the glands of these species. Our analysis identified distinct cellular compositions of the pineal gland in zebrafish, rats, and monkeys. Zebrafish photoreceptors exhibited comprehensive phototransduction gene expression, while specific genes, including transducin (Gngt1, Gnb3, and Gngt2) and phosducin (Pdc), were consistently present in mammalian pinealocytes. We found transcriptional similarities between the pineal gland and retina, underscoring shared evolutionary and functional pathways. Zebrafish displayed unique light-responsive circadian gene activity compared to rats and monkeys. Key ligand-receptor interactions were identified, especially involving MDK and PTN, influencing melatonin synthesis across species. Furthermore, we observed species-specific GPCR (G protein-coupled receptors) expressions related to melatonin synthesis and their alignment with retinal expressions. Our findings also highlighted specific transcription factors (TFs) and regulatory networks associated with pineal gland evolution and function. Our study provides a detailed analysis of the pineal gland's evolution from fish to mammals. We identified key transcriptional changes and controls that highlight the gland's functional diversity. Notably, we found significant ligand-receptor interactions influencing melatonin synthesis and demonstrated parallels between pineal and retinal expressions. These insights enhance our understanding of the pineal gland's role in phototransduction, melatonin production, and circadian rhythms in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihong Zheng
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenqi Song
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yihang Zhou
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuan Li
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Songjiang Research Institute, Songjiang District Central Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Fundamental Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Sziraki A, Lu Z, Lee J, Banyai G, Anderson S, Abdulraouf A, Metzner E, Liao A, Banfelder J, Epstein A, Schaefer C, Xu Z, Zhang Z, Gan L, Nelson PT, Zhou W, Cao J. A global view of aging and Alzheimer's pathogenesis-associated cell population dynamics and molecular signatures in human and mouse brains. Nat Genet 2023; 55:2104-2116. [PMID: 38036784 PMCID: PMC10703679 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-023-01572-y] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Conventional methods fall short in unraveling the dynamics of rare cell types related to aging and diseases. Here we introduce EasySci, an advanced single-cell combinatorial indexing strategy for exploring age-dependent cellular dynamics in the mammalian brain. Profiling approximately 1.5 million single-cell transcriptomes and 400,000 chromatin accessibility profiles across diverse mouse brains, we identified over 300 cell subtypes, uncovering their molecular characteristics and spatial locations. This comprehensive view elucidates rare cell types expanded or depleted upon aging. We also investigated cell-type-specific responses to genetic alterations linked to Alzheimer's disease, identifying associated rare cell types. Additionally, by profiling 118,240 human brain single-cell transcriptomes, we discerned cell- and region-specific transcriptomic changes tied to Alzheimer's pathogenesis. In conclusion, this research offers a valuable resource for probing cell-type-specific dynamics in both normal and pathological aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andras Sziraki
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The David Rockefeller Graduate Program in Bioscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ziyu Lu
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The David Rockefeller Graduate Program in Bioscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jasper Lee
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gabor Banyai
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sonya Anderson
- Department of Pathology and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Abdulraouf Abdulraouf
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eli Metzner
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Computational Biology and Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew Liao
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jason Banfelder
- High Performance Computing Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Epstein
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The David Rockefeller Graduate Program in Bioscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chloe Schaefer
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zihan Xu
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The David Rockefeller Graduate Program in Bioscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zehao Zhang
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- The David Rockefeller Graduate Program in Bioscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Li Gan
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer's Disease Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peter T Nelson
- Department of Pathology and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Wei Zhou
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Junyue Cao
- Laboratory of Single Cell Genomics and Population Dynamics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
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7
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Ziegler KA, Ahles A, Dueck A, Esfandyari D, Pichler P, Weber K, Kotschi S, Bartelt A, Sinicina I, Graw M, Leonhardt H, Weckbach LT, Massberg S, Schifferer M, Simons M, Hoeher L, Luo J, Ertürk A, Schiattarella GG, Sassi Y, Misgeld T, Engelhardt S. Immune-mediated denervation of the pineal gland underlies sleep disturbance in cardiac disease. Science 2023; 381:285-290. [PMID: 37471539 DOI: 10.1126/science.abn6366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Disruption of the physiologic sleep-wake cycle and low melatonin levels frequently accompany cardiac disease, yet the underlying mechanism has remained enigmatic. Immunostaining of sympathetic axons in optically cleared pineal glands from humans and mice with cardiac disease revealed their substantial denervation compared with controls. Spatial, single-cell, nuclear, and bulk RNA sequencing traced this defect back to the superior cervical ganglia (SCG), which responded to cardiac disease with accumulation of inflammatory macrophages, fibrosis, and the selective loss of pineal gland-innervating neurons. Depletion of macrophages in the SCG prevented disease-associated denervation of the pineal gland and restored physiological melatonin secretion. Our data identify the mechanism by which diurnal rhythmicity in cardiac disease is disturbed and suggest a target for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin A Ziegler
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea Ahles
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Anne Dueck
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Dena Esfandyari
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Pauline Pichler
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Karolin Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Kotschi
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Bartelt
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes and Cancer, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Molecular Metabolism & Sabri Ülker Center for Metabolic Research, Harvard. T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Inga Sinicina
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Graw
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
| | - Heinrich Leonhardt
- Human Biology & Bioimaging, Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ludwig T Weckbach
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Steffen Massberg
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Martina Schifferer
- DZNE (German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases), Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Mikael Simons
- DZNE (German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases), Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Luciano Hoeher
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (iTERM), Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jie Luo
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (iTERM), Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ali Ertürk
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (iTERM), Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
| | - Gabriele G Schiattarella
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Translational Approaches in Heart Failure and Cardiometabolic Disease, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Yassine Sassi
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, USA
| | - Thomas Misgeld
- DZNE (German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases), Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Engelhardt
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
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Upadhyayula PS, Neira JA, Miller ML, Bruce JN. Benign and Malignant Tumors of the Pineal Region. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1405:153-173. [PMID: 37452938 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-23705-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Pineal region tumors fall into five broad categories: benign pineal region tumors, glial tumors, papillary tumors, pineal parenchymal tumors, and germ cell tumors. Genetic and transcriptional studies have identified key chromosomal alterations in germinomas (RUNDC3A, ASAH1, LPL) and in pineocytomas/pineoblastomas (DROSHA/DICER1, RB1). Pineal region tumors generally present with symptoms of hydrocephalus including nausea, vomiting, papilledema, and the classical Parinaud's triad of upgaze paralysis, convergence-retraction nystagmus, and light-near pupillary dissociation. Workup requires neuroimaging and tissue diagnosis via biopsy. In germinoma cases, diagnosis may be made based on serum or CSF studies for alpha-fetoprotein or beta-HCG making the preferred treatment radiosurgery, thereby preventing the need for unnecessary surgeries. Treatment generally involves three steps: CSF diversion in cases of hydrocephalus, biopsy through endoscopic or stereotactic methods, and open surgical resection. Multiple surgical approaches are possible for approach to the pineal region. The original approach to the pineal region was the interhemispheric transcallosal first described by Dandy. The most common approach is the supracerebellar infratentorial approach as it utilizes a natural anatomic corridor for access to the pineal region. The paramedian or lateral supracerebellar infratentorial approach is another improvement that uses a similar anatomic corridor but allows for preservation of midline bridging veins; this minimizes the chance for brainstem or cerebellar venous infarction. Determination of the optimal approach relies on tumor characteristics, namely location of deep venous structures to the tumor along with the lateral eccentricity of the tumor. The immediate post-operative period is important as hemorrhage or swelling can cause obstructive hydrocephalus and lead to rapid deterioration. Adjuvant therapy, whether chemotherapy or radiation, is based on tumor pathology. Improvements within pineal surgery will require improved technology for access to the pineal region along with targeted therapies that can effectively treat and prevent recurrence of malignant pineal region tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justin A Neira
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Michael L Miller
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Jeffrey N Bruce
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University, New York, USA.
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Muñoz EM. Microglia in Circumventricular Organs: The Pineal Gland Example. ASN Neuro 2022; 14:17590914221135697. [PMID: 36317305 PMCID: PMC9629557 DOI: 10.1177/17590914221135697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The circumventricular organs (CVOs) are unique areas within the central nervous system. They serve as a portal for the rest of the body and, as such, lack a blood-brain barrier. Microglia are the primary resident immune cells of the brain parenchyma. Within the CVOs, microglial cells find themselves continuously challenged and stimulated by local and systemic stimuli, even under steady-state conditions. Therefore, CVO microglia in their typical state often resemble the activated microglial forms found elsewhere in the brain as they are responding to pathological conditions or other stressors. In this review, I focus on the dynamics of CVO microglia, using the pineal gland as a specific CVO example. Data related to microglia heterogeneity in both homeostatic and unhealthy environments are presented and discussed, including those recently generated by using advanced single-cell and single-nucleus technology. Finally, perspectives in the CVO microglia field are also included.Summary StatementMicroglia in circumventricular organs (CVOs) continuously adapt to react differentially to the diverse challenges they face. Herein, I discuss microglia heterogeneity in CVOs, including pineal gland. Further studies are needed to better understand microglia dynamics in these unique brain areas. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Estela M. Muñoz
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza Dr. Mario H. Burgos (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCuyo), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina,Estela M. Muñoz, IHEM-UNCuyo-CONICET, Parque General San Martin, Ciudad de Mendoza, M5502JMA, Mendoza, Argentina.
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10
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Ding X, Pan T, Tian Q, Huang W, Hayashi LS, Liu Q, Li F, Xu LX, Miao P, Yang X, Sun B, Feng CX, Feng X, Li M, Huang J. Profiling Temporal Changes of the Pineal Transcriptomes at Single Cell Level Upon Neonatal HIBD. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:794012. [PMID: 35350377 PMCID: PMC8958010 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.794012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) often results in various neurological deficits. Among them, a common, yet often neglected, symptom is circadian rhythm disorders. Previous studies revealed that the occurrence of cysts in the pineal gland, an organ known to regulate circadian rhythm, is associated with circadian problems in children with HIBD. However, the underlying mechanisms of pineal dependent dysfunctions post HIBD remain largely elusive. Here, by performing 10x single cell RNA sequencing, we firstly molecularly identified distinct pineal cell types and explored their transcriptome changes at single cell level at 24 and 72 h post neonatal HIBD. Bioinformatic analysis of cell prioritization showed that both subtypes of pinealocytes, the predominant component of the pineal gland, were mostly affected. We then went further to investigate how distinct pineal cell types responded to neonatal HIBD. Within pinealocytes, we revealed a molecularly defined β to α subtype conversion induced by neonatal HIBD. Within astrocytes, we discovered that all three subtypes responded to neonatal HIBD, with differential expression of reactive astrocytes markers. Two subtypes of microglia cells were both activated by HIBD, marked by up-regulation of Ccl3. Notably, microglia cells showed substantial reduction at 72 h post HIBD. Further investigation revealed that pyroptosis preferentially occurred in pineal microglia through NLRP3-Caspase-1-GSDMD signaling pathway. Taken together, our results delineated temporal changes of molecular and cellular events occurring in the pineal gland following neonatal HIBD. By revealing pyroptosis in the pineal gland, our study also provided potential therapeutic targets for preventing extravasation of pineal pathology and thus improving circadian rhythm dysfunction in neonates with HIBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ding
- Soochow Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Child Brain Injury, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Tao Pan
- Soochow Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Child Brain Injury, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qiuyan Tian
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wenxi Huang
- Undergraduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Lauren S Hayashi
- IRTA Fellow, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Qin Liu
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fuyong Li
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Li-Xiao Xu
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Po Miao
- Soochow Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Child Brain Injury, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Soochow Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Child Brain Injury, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Soochow Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Child Brain Injury, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chen-Xi Feng
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xing Feng
- Soochow Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Child Brain Injury, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Pediatrics Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Undergraduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States.,IRTA Fellow, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.,School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mei Li
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jian Huang
- School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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11
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Coon SL, Klein DC. Preparation of Single Pineal Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2550:101-104. [PMID: 36180682 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2593-4_13] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The isolation of single cells from the pineal gland plays an essential role in understanding the complex nature of such processes as differentiation, metabolism, and cell-cell communication within the pineal gland. This procedure is the portal to single-cell RNA sequencing, which produces the transcriptome of individual cells. As such, single-cell RNA sequencing is critical to the continued development of knowledge of the pineal cell physiology. This chapter describes a simple procedure for isolating individual cells. Starting with the incubation of whole tissue in an enzyme preparation, which dissociates the pineal gland into small pieces, it continues with gentle trituration and then isolation of single cells through filtration. The procedure takes less than 2 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven L Coon
- Section on Neuroendocrinology, Molecular Genomics Core, Eunice Shriver Kennedy National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David C Klein
- Section on Neuroendocrinology, Molecular Genomics Core, Eunice Shriver Kennedy National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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12
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Coon SL, Klein DC. RNA Sequencing of Single Pineal Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2550:105-112. [PMID: 36180683 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2593-4_14] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The pineal gland presents a powerful genetic tool to study a broad range of physiological processes. It has been instrumental as a model in understanding transduction processes and daily changes in gene expression and holds great promise in understanding development. Currently, the field is at an exciting point, with methods available for the isolation of individual cells and, as presented here, the preparation of these single cells for sequencing. The resulting cellular transcriptomes have played a role in categorizing cells in the pineal gland, with current estimates including two types of pinealocytes, three types of astrocytes, two types of microglia, and two types of endothelial cells, including the poorly understood vascular and meningeal cell. The methods described in this chapter will serve to support and advance cellular studies of the pineal gland in the twenty-first century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven L Coon
- Section on Neuroendocrinology, Molecular Genomics Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David C Klein
- Section on Neuroendocrinology, Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA.
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13
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Matondo M, Dumas G, Maronde E. Analysis of the Human Pineal Proteome by Mass Spectrometry. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2550:123-132. [PMID: 36180685 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2593-4_16] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The human pineal gland regulates the day-night dynamics of multiple physiological processes, especially through the secretion of melatonin. Recently, using mass spectrometry-based proteomics and dedicated analysis tools, we have identified regulated proteins and signaling pathways that differ between day and night and/or between control and autistic pineal glands. This large-scale proteomic approach is the method of choice to study proteins in a biological system globally. This chapter proposes a protocol for large-scale analysis of the pineal gland proteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariette Matondo
- Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, CNRS USR2000, Proteomics Platform, Mass Spectrometry for Biology Unit, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Dumas
- Institut Pasteur, UMR 3571 CNRS, University Paris Diderot, Paris France, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Paris, France
- Computational Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Erik Maronde
- Institute for Anatomy II, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
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14
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Ge W, Yan ZH, Wang L, Tan SJ, Liu J, Reiter RJ, Luo SM, Sun QY, Shen W. A hypothetical role for autophagy during the day/night rhythm-regulated melatonin synthesis in the rat pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2021; 71:e12742. [PMID: 33960014 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is a highly conserved molecule that regulates day/night rhythms; it is associated with sleep improvement, reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, anti-aging effects, and seasonal and circadian rhythms and has been a hot topic of research for decades. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, a recent study describes a single-cell transcriptome atlas for the rat pineal gland. Based on a more comprehensive analysis of the retrieved data (Mays et al., PLoS One, 2018, 13, e0205883), results from the current study unveiled the underappreciated gene regulatory network behind different cell populations in the pineal gland. More importantly, our study here characterized, for the first time, the day/night activation of autophagy flux in the rat pineal gland, indicating a potential role of autophagy in regulating melatonin synthesis in the rat pineal gland. These findings emphasized a hypothetical role of day/night autophagy in linking the biological clock with melatonin synthesis. Furthermore, ultrastructure analysis of pinealocytes provided fascinating insights into differences in their intracellular structure between daytime and nighttime. In addition, we also provide a preliminary description of cell-cell communication in the rat pineal gland. In summary, the current study unveils the day/night regulation of autophagy in the rat pineal gland, raising a potential role of autophagy in day/night-regulated melatonin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ge
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zi-Hui Yan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shao-Jing Tan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Central Laboratory of Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, Long School of Medicine, UT Health, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Shi-Ming Luo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Shen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
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15
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Genetics, pathogenesis and therapeutic developments for Usher syndrome type 2. Hum Genet 2021; 141:737-758. [PMID: 34331125 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02324-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) is a rare, autosomal recessively inherited disorder resulting in a combination of sensorineural hearing loss and a progressive loss of vision resulting from retinitis pigmentosa (RP), occasionally accompanied by an altered vestibular function. More and more evidence is building up indicating that also sleep deprivation, olfactory dysfunction, deficits in tactile perception and reduced sperm motility are part of the disease etiology. USH can be clinically classified into three different types, of which Usher syndrome type 2 (USH2) is the most prevalent. In this review, we, therefore, assess the genetic and clinical aspects, available models and therapeutic developments for USH2. Mutations in USH2A, ADGRV1 and WHRN have been described to be responsible for USH2, with USH2A being the most frequently mutated USH-associated gene, explaining 50% of all cases. The proteins encoded by the USH2 genes together function in a dynamic protein complex that, among others, is found at the photoreceptor periciliary membrane and at the base of the hair bundles of inner ear hair cells. To unravel the pathogenic mechanisms underlying USH2, patient-derived cellular models and animal models including mouse, zebrafish and drosophila, have been generated that all in part mimic the USH phenotype. Multiple cellular and genetic therapeutic approaches are currently under development for USH2, mainly focused on preserving or partially restoring the visual function of which one is already in the clinical phase. These developments are opening a new gate towards a possible treatment for USH2 patients.
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16
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Lépinay J, Taragnat C, Dubois JP, Chesneau D, Jockers R, Delagrange P, Bozon V. Negative regulation of melatonin secretion by melatonin receptors in ovine pinealocytes. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255249. [PMID: 34324562 PMCID: PMC8320996 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (MLT) is a biological modulator of circadian and seasonal rhythms and reproduction. The photoperiodic information is detected by retinal photoreceptors and transmitted through nerve transmissions to the pineal gland, where MLT is synthesized and secreted at night into the blood. MLT interacts with two G protein-coupled receptors, MT1 and MT2. The aim of our work was to provide evidence for the presence of MLT receptors in the ovine pineal gland and define their involvement on melatonin secretion. For the first time, we identified the expression of MLT receptors with the specific 2-[125I]-MLT agonistic radioligand in ovin pinealocytes. The values of Kd and Bmax are 2.24 ± 1.1 nM and 20 ± 6.8 fmol/mg. MLT receptors are functional and inhibit cAMP production and activate ERK1/2 through pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi/o proteins. The MLT receptor antagonist/ inverse agonist luzindole increased cAMP production (189 ± 30%) and MLT secretion (866 ± 13%). The effect of luzindole on MLT secretion was additive with the effect of well-described activators of this pathway such as the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol and the α-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine. Co-incubation of all three compounds increased MLT secretion by 1236 ± 199%. These results suggest that MLT receptors are involved in the negative regulation of the synthesis of its own ligand in pinealocytes. While adrenergic receptors promote MLT secretion, MLT receptors mitigate this effect to limit the quantity of MLT secreted by the pineal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lépinay
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Catherine Taragnat
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Dubois
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Didier Chesneau
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Ralf Jockers
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | | | - Véronique Bozon
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
- * E-mail:
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17
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Yan Y, Martinez R, Rasheed MN, Cahal J, Xu Z, Rui Y, Qualmann KJ, Hagan JP, Kim DH. Germline and somatic mutations in the pathology of pineal cyst: A whole-exome sequencing study of 93 individuals. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2021; 9:e1691. [PMID: 33943042 PMCID: PMC8222845 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1691] [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: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pineal cyst is a benign lesion commonly occurring in people of any age. Until now, the underlying molecular alterations have not been explored. Methods We performed whole exome sequencing of 93 germline samples and 21 pineal cyst tissue samples to illustrate its genetic architecture and somatic mutations. The dominant and recessive inheritance modes were considered, and a probability was calculated to evaluate the significance of variant overrepresentation. Results By analyzing pineal cyst as a Mendelian disease with a dominant inheritance pattern, we identified 42,325 rare germline variants, and NM_001004711.1:c.476A>G was highly enriched (FDR<0.2). By analyzing it as a recessive disorder, we identified 753 homozygous rare variants detected in at least one pineal cyst sample each. One STIM2 rare variant, NM_001169117.1:c.1652C>T, was overrepresented (FDR<0.05). Analyzing at a gene‐based level, we identified a list of the most commonlymutated germline genes, including POP4, GNGT2 and TMEM254. A somatic mutation analysis of 21 samples identified 16 variants in 15 genes, which mainly participated in the biological processes of gene expression and epigenetic regulation, immune response modulation, and transferase activity. Conclusion These molecular profiles are novel for this condition and provide data for investigators interested in pineal cysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqing Yan
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rebecca Martinez
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Maria N Rasheed
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joshua Cahal
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhen Xu
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yanning Rui
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Krista J Qualmann
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John P Hagan
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dong H Kim
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,Memorial Hermann Hospital, Mischer Neuroscience Institute, Houston, TX, USA
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18
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Mrvelj A, Womble MD. Fluoride-Free Diet Stimulates Pineal Growth in Aged Male Rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2020; 197:175-183. [PMID: 31713773 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-019-01964-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The pineal gland is a naturally calcifying endocrine organ which secretes the sleep-promoting hormone melatonin. Age-related changes of the pineal have been observed, including decreased pinealocyte numbers, increased calcification, and a reduction in melatonin production. Since fluoride is attracted to calcium within the pineal gland, this study sought to examine the effects of a fluoride-free diet on the morphology of the pineal gland of aged male rats (26 months old). All animals had previously been raised on standard fluoridated food and drinking water. These control animals were compared to other animals that were placed on a fluoride-free diet ("fluoride flush") for 4 or 8 weeks. At 4 weeks, pineal glands from fluoride-free animals showed a 96% increase in supporting cell numbers and at 8 weeks a 73% increase in the number of pinealocytes compared to control animals. In contrast, the number of pinealocytes and supporting cells in animals given an initial 4-week fluoride flush followed by a return to fluoridated drinking water (1.2 ppm NaF) for 4 weeks were not different from control animals. Our findings therefore demonstrate that a fluoride-free diet encouraged pinealocyte proliferation and pineal gland growth in aged animals and fluoride treatment inhibited gland growth. These findings suggest that dietary fluoride may be detrimental to the pineal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Mrvelj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Youngstown State University, 1 University Plaza, Youngstown, OH, 44555, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeastern Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | - Mark D Womble
- Department of Biological Sciences, Youngstown State University, 1 University Plaza, Youngstown, OH, 44555, USA.
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19
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Fonseca Costa SS, Robinson-Rechavi M, Ripperger JA. Single-cell transcriptomics allows novel insights into aging and circadian processes. Brief Funct Genomics 2020; 19:343-349. [PMID: 32633783 PMCID: PMC7716582 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elaa014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging and circadian rhythms are two biological processes that affect an organism, although at different time scales. Nevertheless, due to the overlap of their actions, it was speculated that both interfere or interact with each other. However, to address this question, a much deeper insight into these processes is necessary, especially at the cellular level. New methods such as single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-Seq) have the potential to close this gap in our knowledge. In this review, we analyze applications of scRNA-Seq from the aging and circadian rhythm fields and highlight new findings emerging from the analysis of single cells, especially in humans or rodents. Furthermore, we judge the potential of scRNA-Seq to identify common traits of both processes. Overall, this method offers several advantages over more traditional methods analyzing gene expression and will become an important tool to unravel the link between these biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara S Fonseca Costa
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.,SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marc Robinson-Rechavi
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.,SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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20
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Malik DM, Paschos GK, Sehgal A, Weljie AM. Circadian and Sleep Metabolomics Across Species. J Mol Biol 2020; 432:3578-3610. [PMID: 32376454 PMCID: PMC7781158 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2020.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Under normal circadian function, metabolic control is temporally coordinated across tissues and behaviors with a 24-h period. However, circadian disruption results in negative consequences for metabolic homeostasis including energy or redox imbalances. Yet, circadian disruption has become increasingly prevalent within today's society due to many factors including sleep loss. Metabolic consequences of both have been revealed by metabolomics analyses of circadian biology and sleep. Specifically, two primary analytical platforms, mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, have been used to study molecular clock and sleep influences on overall metabolic rhythmicity. For example, human studies have demonstrated the prevalence of metabolic rhythms in human biology, as well as pan-metabolome consequences of sleep disruption. However, human studies are limited to peripheral metabolic readouts primarily through minimally invasive procedures. For further tissue- and organism-specific investigations, a number of model systems have been studied, based upon the conserved nature of both the molecular clock and sleep across species. Here we summarize human studies as well as key findings from metabolomics studies using mice, Drosophila, and zebrafish. While informative, a limitation in existing literature is a lack of interpretation regarding dynamic synthesis or catabolism within metabolite pools. To this extent, future work incorporating isotope tracers, specific metabolite reporters, and single-cell metabolomics may provide a means of exploring dynamic activity in pathways of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dania M Malik
- Pharmacology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Georgios K Paschos
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Amita Sehgal
- Penn Chronobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, PA 19104, USA
| | - Aalim M Weljie
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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21
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Lumsden SC, Clarkson AN, Cakmak YO. Neuromodulation of the Pineal Gland via Electrical Stimulation of Its Sympathetic Innervation Pathway. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:264. [PMID: 32300290 PMCID: PMC7145358 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Stimulation of the pineal gland via its sympathetic innervation pathway results in the production of N-acetylserotonin and melatonin. Melatonin has many therapeutic roles and is heavily implicated in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. In addition, N-acetylserotonin has recently been reported to promote neurogenesis in the brain. Upregulation of these indoleamines is possible via neuromodulation of the pineal gland. This is achieved by electrical stimulation of structures or fibres in the pineal gland sympathetic innervation pathway. Many studies have performed such pineal neuromodulation using both invasive and non-invasive methods. However, the effects of various experimental variables and stimulation paradigms has not yet been reviewed and evaluated. This review summarises these studies and presents the optimal experimental protocols and stimulation parameters necessary for maximal upregulation of melatonin metabolic output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah C. Lumsden
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Health Research Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Andrew N. Clarkson
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Research New Zealand, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Medical Technologies Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yusuf Ozgur Cakmak
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Brain Health Research Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Medical Technologies Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Health Systems and Technology, Dunedin, New Zealand
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22
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Lozano D, González A, López JM. Neuroanatomical Distribution of the Serotonergic System in the Brain and Retina of Holostean Fishes, The Sister Group to Teleosts. BRAIN, BEHAVIOR AND EVOLUTION 2020; 95:25-44. [PMID: 32079020 DOI: 10.1159/000505473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Among actinopterygian fishes, holosteans are the phylogenetically closest group to teleosts but they have been much less studied, particularly regarding the neurochemical features of their central nervous system. The serotonergic system is one of the most important and conserved systems of neurotransmission in all vertebrates. By means of immunohistochemistry against serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine), we have conducted a comprehensive and complete description of this system in the brain and retina of representative species of the 3 genera of holostean fishes, belonging to the only 2 extant orders, Amiiformes and Lepisosteiformes. Serotonin-immunoreactive cell groups were detected in the preoptic area, the hypothalamic paraventricular organ, the epiphysis, the pretectal region, the long and continuous column of the raphe, the spinal cord, and the inner nuclear layer of the retina. Specifically, the serotonergic cell groups in the preoptic area, the epiphysis, the pretectum, and the retina had never been identified in previous studies in this group of fishes. Widespread serotonergic innervation was observed in all main brain regions, but more abundantly in the subpallium, the hypothalamus, the habenula, the optic tectum, the so-called cerebellar nucleus, and the area postrema. The comparative analysis of these results with those in other groups of vertebrates reveals some extremely conserved features, such as the presence of serotonergic cells in the retina, the pineal organ, and the raphe column, while other characteristics, like the serotonergic populations in the preoptic area, the paraventricular organ, the pretectum, and the spinal cord are generally present in all fish groups, but have been lost in most amniotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lozano
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Agustín González
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús M López
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, University Complutense, Madrid, Spain,
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23
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Liu APY, Gudenas B, Lin T, Orr BA, Klimo P, Kumar R, Bouffet E, Gururangan S, Crawford JR, Kellie SJ, Chintagumpala M, Fisher MJ, Bowers DC, Hassall T, Indelicato DJ, Onar-Thomas A, Ellison DW, Boop FA, Merchant TE, Robinson GW, Northcott PA, Gajjar A. Risk-adapted therapy and biological heterogeneity in pineoblastoma: integrated clinico-pathological analysis from the prospective, multi-center SJMB03 and SJYC07 trials. Acta Neuropathol 2020; 139:259-271. [PMID: 31802236 PMCID: PMC7065912 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-019-02106-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pineoblastoma is a rare embryonal tumor of childhood that is conventionally treated with high-dose craniospinal irradiation (CSI). Multi-dimensional molecular evaluation of pineoblastoma and associated intertumoral heterogeneity is lacking. Herein, we report outcomes and molecular features of children with pineoblastoma from two multi-center, risk-adapted trials (SJMB03 for patients ≥ 3 years; SJYC07 for patients < 3 years) complemented by a non-protocol institutional cohort. The clinical cohort consisted of 58 patients with histologically diagnosed pineoblastoma (SJMB03 = 30, SJYC07 = 12, non-protocol = 16, including 12 managed with SJMB03-like therapy). The SJMB03 protocol comprised risk-adapted CSI (average-risk = 23.4 Gy, high-risk = 36 Gy) with radiation boost to the primary site and adjuvant chemotherapy. The SJYC07 protocol consisted of induction chemotherapy, consolidation with focal radiation (intermediate-risk) or chemotherapy (high-risk), and metronomic maintenance therapy. The molecular cohort comprised 43 pineal parenchymal tumors profiled by DNA methylation array (n = 43), whole-exome sequencing (n = 26), and RNA-sequencing (n = 16). Respective 5-year progression-free survival rates for patients with average-risk or high-risk disease on SJMB03 or SJMB03-like therapy were 100% and 56.5 ± 10.3% (P = 0.007); respective 2-year progression-free survival rates for those with intermediate-risk or high-risk disease on SJYC07 were 14.3 ± 13.2% and 0% (P = 0.375). Of patients with average-risk disease treated with SJMB03/SJMB03-like therapy, 17/18 survived without progression. DNA-methylation analysis revealed four clinically relevant pineoblastoma subgroups: PB-A, PB-B, PB-B-like, and PB-FOXR2. Pineoblastoma subgroups differed in age at diagnosis, propensity for metastasis, cytogenetics, and clinical outcomes. Alterations in the miRNA-processing pathway genes DICER1, DROSHA, and DGCR8 were recurrent and mutually exclusive in PB-B and PB-B-like subgroups; PB-FOXR2 samples universally overexpressed the FOXR2 proto-oncogene. Our findings suggest superior outcome amongst older children with average-risk pineoblastoma treated with reduced-dose CSI. The identification of biologically and clinically distinct pineoblastoma subgroups warrants consideration of future molecularly-driven treatment protocols for this rare pediatric brain tumor entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony P Y Liu
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | - Brian Gudenas
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Tong Lin
- Department of Biostatistics, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Brent A Orr
- Department of Pathology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Paul Klimo
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Le Bonheur Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Rahul Kumar
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Eric Bouffet
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sridharan Gururangan
- Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - John R Crawford
- University of California San Diego and Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Stewart J Kellie
- Children's Cancer Centre, The Children's Hospital at Westmead and University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Murali Chintagumpala
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael J Fisher
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel C Bowers
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Tim Hassall
- Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Daniel J Indelicato
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Arzu Onar-Thomas
- Department of Biostatistics, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - David W Ellison
- Department of Pathology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Frederick A Boop
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Le Bonheur Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Thomas E Merchant
- Department of Radiation Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Giles W Robinson
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Paul A Northcott
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Amar Gajjar
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, USA
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24
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Hertz H, Carstensen MB, Bering T, Rohde K, Møller M, Granau AM, Coon SL, Klein DC, Rath MF. The Lhx4 homeobox transcript in the rat pineal gland: Adrenergic regulation and impact on transcripts encoding melatonin-synthesizing enzymes. J Pineal Res 2020; 68:e12616. [PMID: 31609018 PMCID: PMC8408918 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Homeobox genes generally encode transcription factors involved in regulating developmental processes. In the pineal gland, a brain structure devoted to nocturnal melatonin synthesis, a number of homeobox genes are also expressed postnatally; among these is the LIM homeobox 4 gene (Lhx4). We here report that Lhx4 is specifically expressed in the postnatal pineal gland of rats and humans. Circadian analyses revealed a fourfold rhythm in Lhx4 expression in the rat pineal gland, with rhythmic expression detectable from postnatal day 10. Pineal Lhx4 expression was confirmed to be positively driven by adrenergic signaling, as evidenced by in vivo modulation of Lhx4 expression by pharmacological (isoprenaline injection) and surgical (superior cervical ganglionectomy) interventions. In cultured pinealocytes, Lhx4 expression was upregulated by cyclic AMP, a second messenger of norepinephrine. By use of RNAscope technology, Lhx4 transcripts were found to be exclusively localized in melatonin-synthesizing pinealocytes. This prompted us to investigate the possible role of Lhx4 in regulation of melatonin-producing enzymes. By use of siRNA technology, we knocked down Lhx4 by 95% in cultured pinealocytes; this caused a reduction in transcripts encoding the melatonin-producing enzyme arylalkylamine N-acetyl transferase (Aanat). Screening the transcriptome of siRNA-treated pinealocytes by RNAseq revealed a significant impact of Lhx4 on the phototransduction pathway and on transcripts involved in development of the nervous system and photoreceptors. These data suggest that rhythmic expression of Lhx4 in the pineal gland is controlled via an adrenergic-cyclic AMP mechanism and that Lhx4 acts to promote nocturnal melatonin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Hertz
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel B Carstensen
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tenna Bering
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Rohde
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Møller
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Agnete M Granau
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steven L Coon
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David C Klein
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Martin F Rath
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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25
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Barbosa Lima LE, Muxel SM, Kinker GS, Carvalho-Sousa CE, da Silveira Cruz-Machado S, Markus RP, Fernandes PACM. STAT1-NFκB crosstalk triggered by interferon gamma regulates noradrenaline-induced pineal hormonal production. J Pineal Res 2019; 67:e12599. [PMID: 31356684 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin production by pineal glands is modulated by several immune signals. The nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NFκB) homodimers, lacking transactivation domains, once induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or tumor necrosis factor (TNF), inhibits the expression of Aanat gene and the synthesis of noradrenaline (NA)-induced melatonin. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ), on the other hand, increases melatonin synthesis. Furthermore, this cytokine activates the signal transducer as well as the activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) pathway, which was never evaluated as a melatonin synthesis modulator before. Reports demonstrated that IFN-γ might also activate NFκB. The present study evaluated the role of STAT1-NFκB crosstalk triggered by IFN-γ regarding the regulation of NA-induced pineal glands' hormonal production. Moreover, IFN-γ treatment increased NA-induced Aanat transcription, in addition to the synthesis of N-acetylserotonin (NAS) and melatonin. These effects were associated with STAT1 nuclear translocation, confirmed by the co-immunoprecipitation of STAT1 and Aanat promoter. Pharmacological STAT1 enhancement augmented NA-induced Aanat transcription as well as NAS and melatonin production. Additionally, IFN-γ induced the nuclear translocation of RelA-NFκB subunits. The blockade of this pathway prevented IFN-γ effects on the pineal function. The present data show that STAT1 and NFκB crosstalk controls melatonin production through a synergistic mechanism, disclosing a new integrative mechanism regarding pineal hormonal activity control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra Marcia Muxel
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela S Kinker
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Regina P Markus
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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26
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Fletcher PA, Smiljanic K, Maso Prévide R, Iben JR, Li T, Rokic MB, Sherman A, Coon SL, Stojilkovic SS. Cell Type- and Sex-Dependent Transcriptome Profiles of Rat Anterior Pituitary Cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:623. [PMID: 31620083 PMCID: PMC6760010 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the physiology and pathology of an organ composed of a variety of cell populations depends critically on genome-wide information on each cell type. Here, we report single-cell transcriptome profiling of over 6,800 freshly dispersed anterior pituitary cells from postpubertal male and female rats. Six pituitary-specific cell types were identified based on known marker genes and characterized: folliculostellate cells and hormone-producing corticotrophs, gonadotrophs, thyrotrophs, somatotrophs, and lactotrophs. Also identified were endothelial and blood cells from the pituitary capillary network. The expression of numerous developmental and neuroendocrine marker genes in both folliculostellate and hormone-producing cells supports that they have a common origin. For several genes, the validity of transcriptome analysis was confirmed by qRT-PCR and single cell immunocytochemistry. Folliculostellate cells exhibit impressive transcriptome diversity, indicating their major roles in production of endogenous ligands and detoxification enzymes, and organization of extracellular matrix. Transcriptome profiles of hormone-producing cells also indicate contributions toward those functions, while also clearly demonstrating their endocrine function. This survey highlights many novel genetic markers contributing to pituitary cell type identity, sexual dimorphism, and function, and points to relationships between hormone-producing and folliculostellate cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A. Fletcher
- Laboratory of Biological Modeling, National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Kosara Smiljanic
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rafael Maso Prévide
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - James R. Iben
- Molecular Genomics Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Tianwei Li
- Molecular Genomics Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Milos B. Rokic
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Arthur Sherman
- Laboratory of Biological Modeling, National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Steven L. Coon
- Molecular Genomics Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Stanko S. Stojilkovic
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
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27
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Rohde K, Hertz H, Rath MF. Homeobox genes in melatonin-producing pinealocytes: Otx2 and Crx act to promote hormone synthesis in the mature rat pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2019; 66:e12567. [PMID: 30803008 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Homeobox genes encode transcription factors that regulate developmental processes; however, in the pineal gland, a neuroendocrine organ responsible for nocturnal melatonin synthesis, expression of the homeobox genes Otx2 (orthodenticle homeobox 2) and Crx (cone-rod homeobox) persists postnatally. We here show that OTX2 and CRX are exclusively present in melatonin-producing pinealocytes of the rat pineal gland. To understand the roles of Otx2 and Crx in the mature pineal gland, we used siRNA technology in cultured rat pinealocytes with the nocturnal situation mimicked by adding norepinephrine to the culture media. siRNA-induced knockdown of Otx2 was found to reduce expression levels of the enzymes involved in melatonin synthesis at both transcript and protein levels. Similar results were obtained when knocking down Crx. Knocking down Otx2 and Crx simultaneously produced an even larger reduction in both transcript and protein levels of the melatonin-producing enzymes and also reduced the levels of melatonin released to the culture media. These results suggest that Otx2 and Crx, both alone and in combination, act to control pineal melatonin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Rohde
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Hertz
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin F Rath
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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28
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Coon SL, Fu C, Hartley SW, Holtzclaw L, Mays JC, Kelly MC, Kelley MW, Mullikin JC, Rath MF, Savastano LE, Klein DC. Single Cell Sequencing of the Pineal Gland: The Next Chapter. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:590. [PMID: 31616371 PMCID: PMC6764290 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The analysis of pineal cell biology has undergone remarkable development as techniques have become available which allow for sequencing of entire transcriptomes and, most recently, the sequencing of the transcriptome of individual cells. Identification of at least nine distinct cell types in the rat pineal gland has been made possible, allowing identification of the precise cells of origin and expression of transcripts for the first time. Here the history and current state of knowledge generated by these transcriptomic efforts is reviewed, with emphasis on the insights suggested by the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven L. Coon
- Molecular Genomics Core, Office of the Scientific Director, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Cong Fu
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration & Transplantation of the Ministry of Education, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China
| | - Steven W. Hartley
- Comparative Genomics Analysis Unit, Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Lynne Holtzclaw
- Microscopy and Imaging Core, Office of the Scientific Director, Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Joseph C. Mays
- Institute on Systems Genetics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michael C. Kelly
- Single Cell Analysis Facility, Frederick National Lab for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Matthew W. Kelley
- Section on Developmental Neuroscience, Laboratory of Cochlear Development, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - James C. Mullikin
- National Institutes of Health Intramural Sequencing Center, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Martin F. Rath
- Department of Neuroscience, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Luis E. Savastano
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - David C. Klein
- Office of the Scientific Director, Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: David C. Klein
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29
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Signaling within the pineal gland: A parallelism with the central nervous system. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 95:151-159. [PMID: 30502386 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The pineal gland (PG) derives from the neural tube, like the rest of the central nervous system (CNS). The PG is specialized in synthesizing and secreting melatonin in a circadian fashion. The nocturnal elevation of melatonin is a highly conserved feature among species which proves its importance in nature. Here, we review a limited set of intrinsic and extrinsic regulatory elements that have been shown or proposed to influence the PG's melatonin production, as well as pineal ontogeny and homeostasis. Intrinsic regulators include the transcription factors CREB, Pax6 and NeuroD1. In addition, microglia within the PG participate as extrinsic regulators of these functions. We further discuss how these same elements work in other parts of the CNS, and note similarities and differences to their roles in the PG. Since the PG is a relatively well-defined and highly specialized organ within the CNS, we suggest that applying this comparative approach to additional PG regulators may be a useful tool for understanding complex areas of the brain, as well as the influence of the PG in both health and disease, including circadian functions and disorders.
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