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Ashraf N, Anas A, Sukumaran V, James J, Bilutheth MN, Chekkillam AR, Jasmin C, Raj K D, Babu I. Biofilm-forming bacteria associated with corals secrete melanin with UV-absorption properties. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:313. [PMID: 39210155 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04120-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: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Corals are colonized by a plethora of microorganisms, and their diversity plays a significant role in the health and resilience of corals when they face oxidative stress leading to bleaching. In the current study, we examined 238 bacteria isolated from five different coral species (Acropora hyacinthus, Pocillopora damicornis, Podabacea crustacea, Porites lobata, and Pavona venosa) collected from the coral reef ecosystems of Kavaratti, Lakshadweep Islands, India. We found that bacteria such as Psychrobacter sp., Halomonas sp., Kushneria sp., Staphylococcus sp., Bacillus sp., Brachybacterium sp., Citrobacter sp., and Salinicola sp. were commonly present in the corals. On the other hand, Qipengyuania sp., Faucicola sp., Marihabitans sp., Azomonas sp., Atlantibacter sp., Cedecea sp., Krasalinikoviella sp., and Aidingimonas sp. were not previously reported from the corals. Among the bacterial isolates, a significant number showed high levels of biofilm formation (118), UV absorption (119), and melanin production (127). Considering these properties, we have identified a combination of seven bacteria from the genera Halomonas sp., Psychrobacter sp., Krasalinikoviella sp., and Micrococcus sp. as a potential probiotic consortium for protecting corals from oxidative stress. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the coral microbiome and opens up possibilities for microbiome-based interventions to protect these crucial ecosystems in the face of global environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nizam Ashraf
- Regional Centre, CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Kochi, 682018, India
- Academy of Scientific and Industrial Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Abdulaziz Anas
- Regional Centre, CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Kochi, 682018, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Industrial Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
| | - Vrinda Sukumaran
- Regional Centre, CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Kochi, 682018, India
- School of Environmental Studies, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, 682022, India
| | - Jibin James
- Regional Centre, CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Kochi, 682018, India
| | | | | | - C Jasmin
- Regional Centre, CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Kochi, 682018, India
- ENFYS Lifesciences, Kochi, 683578, India
| | - Devika Raj K
- Regional Centre, CSIR - National Institute of Oceanography, Kochi, 682018, India
| | - Idrees Babu
- Department of Science and Technology, Kavaratti, 682555, India
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2
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Wu X, Xu L, Zhang H, Zhu Y, Zhang Q, Zhang C, E G. Genome-Wide Selection Sweep Analysis to Identify Candidate Genes with Black and Brown Color in Tibetan Sibu Yaks. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2458. [PMID: 39272243 PMCID: PMC11394208 DOI: 10.3390/ani14172458] [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: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Although coat color is an important economic phenotype in domesticated yaks (Bos grunniens), its genetic basis is not yet fully understood. In this study, a genome-wide selective sweep and high-frequency runs of homozygosity (ROH) identification were performed on 50 yaks with different coat colors to investigate candidate genes (CDGs) related to coat color. The results suggested that 2263 CDGs were identified from the 5% interaction windows of the FST and θπ ratio, along with 2801 and 2834 CDGs from black and brown yaks with iHS, respectively. Furthermore, 648 and 691 CDGs from black and brown yaks, which were widely enriched in pathways related to melanogenesis, melanocyte differentiation, and melanosome organization via GO and KEGG functional enrichment, respectively, were confirmed on the basis of the intersection of three parameters. Additionally, the genome of brown yaks presented more ROH, longer ROH fragments, and higher inbreeding levels than those of black yaks. Specifically, a large number of genes related to melanin synthesis and regulation (e.g., UST, TCF25, and AHRR) from the ROH islands were confirmed to be under strong selection. In summary, the results of this study enhance the understanding of the genetic basis for determining yak coat color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinming Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Lu Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Haoyuan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Tibet Academy of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa 850009, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Tibet Academy of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa 850009, China
| | - Chengfu Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Tibet Academy of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa 850009, China
| | - Guangxin E
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
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3
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Koç Ş, Koç AE. Iris color and day-night changes in the sympathovagal ratio. Sleep Biol Rhythms 2024; 22:191-198. [PMID: 38524167 PMCID: PMC10959899 DOI: 10.1007/s41105-023-00492-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Iris melanocytes are innervated by parasympathetic and sympathetic nerve endings. Light affects autonomic nervous system activity via the retino-hypothalamic pathway. The hypothesis that the day-to-night variations in the sympatovagal ratio (LF/HF) may differ among individuals with different brown iris patterns was tested. A total of 621 healthy adults, aged between 16 and 50, with brown eyes and not diagnosed with a disease that might affect the autonomous nerve system were included in the study. A digital camera was used to acquire iris photos. Subjects were grouped into iris color groups (2-0 bg, 1-0 bg, 1-1 db, 1-1 lb, 2-0 b, and 1-0 b). Iris photos were analyzed with Picture Color Analyzer RBG software. The Central/Peripheral (R/RGB) ratio was used for objective distinction between the groups. Using 24-h Holter ECG monitoring, the change in the sympathovagal ratio from day (between 07:00 and 23:00 h) to night (between 23:00 and 07:00 h) was determined with the formula [(Day-Night) LF/HF)/Day LF/HF]. The frequency of subjects with a decrease in the LF/HF ratio from day to night was the highest in the 1-1 db group (65.7%), followed by the 1-1 lb group (56.4%). The highest increase was in the 2-0 bg group (76.5%), followed by the 1-0 B group (68.9%) (p < 0.001). Based on the findings of this study, iris color may be a predictive factor in diseases in which the circadian change of autonomic nervous system activity is effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şahbender Koç
- Ankara Ataturk Sanatorium Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aslı Enzel Koç
- Ankara Ataturk Sanatorium Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
- Psychiatry, Trabzon Fatih State Hospital, Trabzon, Turkey
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4
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Katkat E, Demirci Y, Heger G, Karagulle D, Papatheodorou I, Brazma A, Ozhan G. Canonical Wnt and TGF-β/BMP signaling enhance melanocyte regeneration but suppress invasiveness, migration, and proliferation of melanoma cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1297910. [PMID: 38020918 PMCID: PMC10679360 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1297910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and develops from the melanocytes that are responsible for the pigmentation of the skin. The skin is also a highly regenerative organ, harboring a pool of undifferentiated melanocyte stem cells that proliferate and differentiate into mature melanocytes during regenerative processes in the adult. Melanoma and melanocyte regeneration share remarkable cellular features, including activation of cell proliferation and migration. Yet, melanoma considerably differs from the regenerating melanocytes with respect to abnormal proliferation, invasive growth, and metastasis. Thus, it is likely that at the cellular level, melanoma resembles early stages of melanocyte regeneration with increased proliferation but separates from the later melanocyte regeneration stages due to reduced proliferation and enhanced differentiation. Here, by exploiting the zebrafish melanocytes that can efficiently regenerate and be induced to undergo malignant melanoma, we unravel the transcriptome profiles of the regenerating melanocytes during early and late regeneration and the melanocytic nevi and malignant melanoma. Our global comparison of the gene expression profiles of melanocyte regeneration and nevi/melanoma uncovers the opposite regulation of a substantial number of genes related to Wnt signaling and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)/(bone morphogenetic protein) BMP signaling pathways between regeneration and cancer. Functional activation of canonical Wnt or TGF-β/BMP pathways during melanocyte regeneration promoted melanocyte regeneration but potently suppressed the invasiveness, migration, and proliferation of human melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, the opposite regulation of signaling mechanisms between melanocyte regeneration and melanoma can be exploited to stop tumor growth and develop new anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Katkat
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute (IBG-Izmir), Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Yeliz Demirci
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute (IBG-Izmir), Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | | | - Doga Karagulle
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Irene Papatheodorou
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory—European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alvis Brazma
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory—European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gunes Ozhan
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Türkiye
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Kuttan SP, Abdulaziz A, Chekidhenkuzhiyil J, Raj D, Mohan M, Athiyanathil S. Characterization of pyomelanin secreted by Shewanella sp. and their application in metal recovery. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:6705-6715. [PMID: 36006536 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22686-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Melanin is a biopolymer with versatile structural and functional properties and diverse applications in recovering toxic chemicals from water and wastewater, biomedical imaging, and as theragnostic agent. We report the structural characterization and biosynthetic pathway of an extracellular pyomelanin secreted by a sponge-associated bacterium, Shewanella sp. (Shewanella-melanin), and their potential application in metal recovery from liquid. Pyomelanin particles of > 50 µm size were found in the culture medium within 48 h of growth, which were formed through the self-polymerization of benzoquinone molecule produced through homogentisic acid pathway. The aspC and hppD genes involved in the biosynthetic pathway of pyomelanin were detected in the whole genome sequence of Shewanella sp. The FT-IR spectra of Shewanella-melanin, at ~ 3300-3420 cm-1 corresponding to the stretching vibration of -NH and -OH, was in good agreement with that of Sepia melanin, while its elemental composition (C/N/H/S of 29.2:8.23:6.41:1.58) was unique. Shewanella-melanin showed ~ 300 and ~ 950 times increased chelation of manganese and iron from a liquid medium supplemented with 2 mM of MnSO4 and FeSO4, respectively, compared to a control. The FT-IR spectrum showed the binding of metal ions to the carboxylic acid, hydroxyl, and amine groups of Shewanella-melanin. The Shewanella-melanin, with its excellent metal biosorption, could be a potential candidate for removing toxic compounds from water, in turn contributing to the fulfillment of sustainable development goal (SDG) 6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anas Abdulaziz
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre Kochi, Dr. Salim Ali Road, Kochi, Kerala, 682 018, India.
| | - Jasmin Chekidhenkuzhiyil
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre Kochi, Dr. Salim Ali Road, Kochi, Kerala, 682 018, India
| | - Devika Raj
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Centre Kochi, Dr. Salim Ali Road, Kochi, Kerala, 682 018, India
| | - Mahesh Mohan
- School of Environmental Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Priyadarsini Hills, Kottayam, Kerala, 686 560, India
| | - Sujith Athiyanathil
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Kozhikode, Kerala, 673 601, India
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Daníelsson SB, García‐Llorca A, Reynisson H, Eysteinsson T. Mouse microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) mutations affect the structure of the retinal vasculature. Acta Ophthalmol 2022; 100:911-918. [PMID: 35348289 PMCID: PMC9790633 DOI: 10.1111/aos.15140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mice carrying pathogenic variants in the microphthalmia transcription factor (Mitf) gene show structural and functional changes in the retina and retinal pigment epithelium. The purpose of this study was to assess the vascular changes in Mitf mice carrying pathogenic variants by determining their retinal vessel diameter. METHODS Mice examined in this study were: B6-Mitfmi-vga9/+ (n = 6), B6-Mitfmi-enu22(398) /Mitfmi-enu22(398) (n = 6) and C57BL/6J wild type mice (n = 6), all 3 months old. Fundus images were taken with a Micron IV camera after intraperitoneal injection of fluorescein salt. Images were adjusted to enhance contrast and a custom written MATLAB program used to extract the mean vascular diameter at a pre-defined distance from the optic disc. The number of vessels, mean diameter and mean total diameter were examined. RESULTS The mean diameter of retinal veins in Mitfmi-enu22(398) /Mitfmi-enu22(398) mice was 18.8% larger than in wild type (p = 0.026). No differences in the mean diameter of the retinal arteries were found between the genotypes. Mitfmi-enu22(398) /Mitfmi-enu22(398) mice have 17.2% more retinal arteries (p = 0.026), and 15.6% more retinal veins (p = 0.041) than wild type. A 24.8% increase was observed in the mean combined arterial diameter in mice with the Mitfmi-enu22(398)/ Mitfmi-enu22(398) compared to wild type mice (p = 0.024). A 38.6% increase was found in the mean combined venular diameter in mice with the Mitfmi-enu22(398) /Mitfmi-enu22(398) pathogenic variation as compared to wild type (p = 0.004). The mean combined retinal venular diameter in the Mitfmi-vga9/+ mice was 17.8% larger than in wild type (p = 0.03). CONCLUSION An increase in vascularization of the retina in Mitfmi-enu22(398) /Mitfmi-enu22(398) mice was found, indicating an increased demand for blood flow to the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefán Broddi Daníelsson
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Center, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of IcelandReykjavíkIceland
| | - Andrea García‐Llorca
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Center, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of IcelandReykjavíkIceland
| | - Hallur Reynisson
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Center, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of IcelandReykjavíkIceland
| | - Thor Eysteinsson
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Center, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of IcelandReykjavíkIceland
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Xie B, Sun J, Song X. Hair Follicle Melanocytes Initiate Autoimmunity in Alopecia Areata: a Trigger Point. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2022; 63:417-430. [PMID: 36121544 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-022-08954-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is characterized by common non-scarring alopecia due to autoimmune disorders. To date, the specific pathogenesis underlying AA remains unknown. Thus, AA treatment in the dermatological clinic is still a challenge. Numerous clinical observations and experimental studies have established that melanocytes may be the trigger point that causes hair follicles to be attacked by the immune system. A possible mechanism is that the impaired melanocytes, under oxidative stress, cannot be repaired in time and causes apoptosis. Melanocyte-associated autoantigens are released and presented, inducing CD8+ T cell attacks. Thereafter, amplification of the immune responses further spreads to the entire hair follicle (HF). The immune privilege of HF subsequently collapses, leading to AA. Herein, we present a narrative review on the roles of melanocytes in AA pathogenesis, aiming to provide a better understanding of this disease from the melanocyte's perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Xie
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Sun
- Graduate School, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Binwen Rd 548, Hangzhou, 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuzu Song
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China.
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Recognition of Melanocytes in Immuno-Neuroendocrinology and Circadian Rhythms: Beyond the Conventional Melanin Synthesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132082. [PMID: 35805166 PMCID: PMC9266247 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanocytes produce melanin to protect the skin from UV-B radiation. Notwithstanding, the spectrum of their functions extends far beyond their well-known role as melanin production factories. Melanocytes have been considered as sensory and computational cells. The neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and other hormones produced by melanocytes make them part of the skin’s well-orchestrated and complex neuroendocrine network, counteracting environmental stressors. Melanocytes can also actively mediate the epidermal immune response. Melanocytes are equipped with ectopic sensory systems similar to the eye and nose and can sense light and odor. The ubiquitous inner circadian rhythm controls the body’s basic physiological processes. Light not only affects skin photoaging, but also regulates inner circadian rhythms and communicates with the local neuroendocrine system. Do melanocytes “see” light and play a unique role in photoentrainment of the local circadian clock system? Why, then, are melanocytes responsible for so many mysterious functions? Do these complex functional devices work to maintain homeostasis locally and throughout the body? In addition, melanocytes have also been shown to be localized in internal sites such as the inner ear, brain, and heart, locations not stimulated by sunlight. Thus, what can the observation of extracutaneous melanocytes tell us about the “secret identity” of melanocytes? While the answers to some of these intriguing questions remain to be discovered, here we summarize and weave a thread around available data to explore the established and potential roles of melanocytes in the biological communication of skin and systemic homeostasis, and elaborate on important open issues and propose ways forward.
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Jara E, Peñagaricano F, Armstrong E, Ciappesoni G, Iriarte A, Navajas EA. Revealing the genetic basis of eyelid pigmentation in Hereford cattle. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6564820. [PMID: 35390123 PMCID: PMC9155157 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular squamous cell carcinoma and infectious keratoconjunctivitis are common ocular pathologies in Hereford cattle with considerable economic impact. Both pathologies have been associated with low eyelid pigmentation, and thus, genetic selection for higher eyelid pigmentation could reduce their incidence. The objective of the present study was to reveal the genetic basis of eyelid pigmentation in Hereford cattle. The analysis included a single-step genome-wide association study (ssGWAS) and a subsequent gene-set analysis in order to identify individual genes, genetic mechanisms and biological pathways implicated in this trait. Data consisted of eyelid pigmentation records in 1,165 Hereford bulls and steers, visually assessed in five categories between 0% and 100%. Genotypic data for 774,660 single nucleotide polymorphism markers were available for 886 animals with pigmentation records. Pedigree information of three generations of ancestors of animals with phenotype was considered in this study, with a total of 4,929 animals. Our analyses revealed that eyelid pigmentation is a moderately heritable trait, with heritability estimates around 0.41. The ssGWAS identified at least eight regions, located on BTA1, BTA3, BTA5, BTA14, BTA16, BTA18, BTA19 and BTA24, associated with eyelid pigmentation. These regions harbor genes that are directly implicated in melanocyte biology and skin pigmentation, such as ADCY8, PLD1, KITLG, and PRKCA. The gene-set analysis revealed several functional terms closely related to melanogenesis, such as positive regulation of melanocyte differentiation and regulation of ERK1 and ERK2 cascade. Overall, our findings provide evidence that eyelid pigmentation is a heritable trait influenced by many loci. Indeed, the ssGWAS detected several candidate genes that are directly implicated in melanocyte biology, including melanogenesis. This study contributes to a better understanding of the genetic and biological basis of eyelid pigmentation and presents novel information that could aid to design breeding strategies for reducing the incidence of ocular pathologies in cattle. Additional research on the genetic link between eyelid pigmentation and ocular pathologies is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Jara
- Unidad de Genética y Mejora Animal, Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - Francisco Peñagaricano
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Eileen Armstrong
- Unidad de Genética y Mejora Animal, Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - Gabriel Ciappesoni
- Programa Nacional de Carne y Lana, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria, INIA Las Brujas, Uruguay
| | - Andrés Iriarte
- Laboratorio de Biología Computacional, Departamento de Desarrollo Biotecnológico, Instituto de Higiene, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - Elly Ana Navajas
- Programa Nacional de Carne y Lana, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria, INIA Las Brujas, Uruguay.,Unidad de Biotecnología. Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria, INIA Las Brujas, Uruguay
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Wu Y, Lai Y, Zhang M, Li Z. Prognostic significance of the aberrant expression of neuroendocrine markers in melanomas. Diagn Pathol 2021; 16:78. [PMID: 34454530 PMCID: PMC8403415 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-021-01135-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Melanoma is a highly malignant tumor with diverse histopathological morphology and frequent aberrant expression of immunohistochemical markers. An occasionally reported phenomenon is the abnormal expression of neuroendocrine markers. Awareness of this situation is essential because such tumors need to be differentiated from neuroendocrine tumors because of their significant therapeutic and prognostic implications. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the expression of chromogranin A (CgA), synaptophysin (Syn) and CD56 as neuroendocrine markers in 308 cases with melanomas. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression analyses were used for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) evaluation and comparison between neuroendocrine markers expression status in all melanoma cases or stage I–II cases. Results The expression of neuroendocrine markers in melanomas is not uncommon. CgA was positive in 6/304 (2.0%) cases, Syn in 26/304 (8.6%), and CD56 in 56/189 (29.6%). None of the cases co-expressed all the three markers. Focal or weak expression of at least one neuroendocrine marker was identified in 70/188 (37.2%) cases. The expression of CgA was correlated with age (p = 0.019), while the positive expression of Syn and CD56 showed borderline significance (p = 0.078 and 0.083, respectively), but not for any neuroendocrine marker expression. The expression of any neuroendocrine marker showed borderline significance with staging (p = 0.066). The expression of CgA, Syn, CD56, or any neuroendocrine marker did not correlate with clinicopathological features including sex, specimen type, origin, location, and histology subtype. Survival analyses revealed that the expression of neuroendocrine markers was not associated with OS or PFS. Conclusions Our study confirms that neuroendocrine marker expression is a common phenomenon in melanomas, but it has no prognostic significance. Nevertheless, awareness can avoid misdiagnosis in cases of melanomas with unusual morphology and immunophenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wu
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 52, Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Yumei Lai
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 52, Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 52, Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Zhongwu Li
- Department of Pathology, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, No. 52, Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100142, China.
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11
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Jara E, Peñagaricano F, Menezes C, Tardiz L, Rodons G, Iriarte A, Armstrong E. Transcriptomic analysis of eyelid pigmentation in Hereford cattle. Anim Genet 2020; 51:935-939. [PMID: 33058316 DOI: 10.1111/age.13004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The study of skin color in cattle holds both economic and scientific interest. Several ocular diseases of cattle have been associated with low pigmentation of the eyelids, including ocular squamous cell carcinoma and infectious keratoconjunctivitis, the two most common ocular diseases affecting cattle production. Although low eyelid pigmentation is a well-known risk factor for various ocular diseases, the genetic and biological basis of this relationship is largely unknown. We investigated the transcriptome of eyelid skin in Hereford cattle using RNA-sequencing technology. Two contrasting groups were evaluated: steers that were completely pigmented and steers with no pigmentation in both eyelids. Most of the up-regulated genes in pigmented samples are directly implicated in melanogenesis and melanosome development, whereas up-regulated genes in non-pigmented samples are implicated in cancer development and the immune system, among other functions. Interestingly, network analysis comparing pigmented vs. non-pigmented samples revealed significant differences in the co-expression patterns of genes related to melanosome, pigmentation and defense response to bacteria, showing higher gene activity, greater co-expression patterns and tighter co-regulation mechanisms in pigmented samples. Overall, our findings indicate that bovine eyelid pigmentation depends on the expression of many genes involved not only in pigmentation and melanosome function but also related to inflammatory response, infection and tumoral pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Jara
- Departamento de Genética y Mejora Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - F Peñagaricano
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - C Menezes
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología y Metabolismo Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - L Tardiz
- Departamento de Genética y Mejora Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - G Rodons
- Departamento de Genética y Mejora Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - A Iriarte
- Laboratorio de Biología Computacional, Departamento de Desarrollo Biotecnológico, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Higiene, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - E Armstrong
- Departamento de Genética y Mejora Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
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12
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Yeung HM, Gupta B, Kamat B. A Rare Case of Primary Anorectal Melanoma and a Review of the Current Landscape of Therapy. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2020; 10:371-376. [PMID: 32850102 PMCID: PMC7427446 DOI: 10.1080/20009666.2020.1787809] [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: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anorectal mucosal melanoma (ARMM) is an uncommon and highly aggressive malignancy. Given its rarity, there is insufficient evidence on the optimal medical management which presents as a clinical challenge to its diagnosis and treatment. Treatment of ARMM typically involves a multimodal approach including surgical resection, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and/or immunotherapy. CASE PRESENTATION Here, we present a case of a 78-year-old female who presented with a four-month history of rectal bleeding and bowel incontinence. Ultimately, colonoscopy revealed a mass at the anal verge, and biopsy of the mass showed malignant cells that stained positive for S100, Melan-A and HMB-45, consistent with the diagnosis of malignant melanoma. Molecular testing revealed no BRAF, KIT or NRAS gene mutations. PD-L1 immunohistochemistry showed tumor proportion score of 1%. She underwent abdominoperineal resection with a plan to initiate immunotherapy with an anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor. This case highlights a rare aggressive malignancy and reviews its treatment option, which are mostly extrapolated from its cutaneous counterpart and some derived from a few case reports. Due to its rarity, there is no consensus guideline for the treatment of ARMM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Man Yeung
- Department of Medicine, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brinda Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bhishak Kamat
- Department of Radiology, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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13
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Maranduca MA, Branisteanu D, Serban DN, Branisteanu DC, Stoleriu G, Manolache N, Serban IL. Synthesis and physiological implications of melanic pigments. Oncol Lett 2019; 17:4183-4187. [PMID: 30944614 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of melanin synthesis and distribution is called melanogenesis, a process that is based on melanocytes present among the basal cells of the epidermis. Pigments formed in melanocyte melanosomes are then stored in the basal layer of epidermal cells, as well as in dermal macrophages, which become melanophores. From the embryological point of view, melanocytes derive from the melanoblasts of the neural crest, from where they migrate during the first months of life into the skin, eye, cochlea, bone, peripheral nervous system, heart and adipose tissue. The melanic pigments, eumelanin and pheomelanin, are the final product of complex biochemical reactions starting from the amino acid L-tyrosine. Melanin has a major role in skin homeostasis through the photoprotection it offers from the harmful effect of ultraviolet radiation. Melanin absorbs and/or reflects ultraviolet radiation but is also involved in the neutralizing process of free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Pigmentogenesis is a dependent oxygen process and is controlled by intrinsic factors (genetic and hormonal) as well as extrinsic factors (ultraviolet radiation). Melanogenesis is stimulated by stimulant melanocytic hormone, adrenocorticotropin hormone, estrogens and progesterone. The present review aimed to provide a summary of recent data about melanogenesis physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minela Aida Maranduca
- Department of Physiology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Daciana Branisteanu
- Department of Dermatology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Dragomir Nicolae Serban
- Department of Physiology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | | | - Gabriela Stoleriu
- Department of Dermatology, 'Dunarea de Jos' University, Faculty of Medicine, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Nicuta Manolache
- Department of Dermatology, 'Dunarea de Jos' University, Faculty of Medicine, 800008 Galati, Romania
| | - Ionela Lacramioara Serban
- Department of Physiology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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14
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Li X, Zhu J, Tao Y, Tao K. Elevated endogenous opioids in obstructive jaundice: The possible skin mechanisms. Med Hypotheses 2018; 116:119-121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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15
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Malaguarnera G, Madeddu R, Catania VE, Bertino G, Morelli L, Perrotta RE, Drago F, Malaguarnera M, Latteri S. Anorectal mucosal melanoma. Oncotarget 2018; 9:8785-8800. [PMID: 29492238 PMCID: PMC5823579 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Anorectal melanoma is an uncommon and aggressive mucosal melanocytic malignancy. Due to its rarity, the pre-operative diagnosis remains difficult. The first symptoms are non-specific such as anal bleeding, anal mass or pain. Although anorectal melanoma carries a poor prognosis; optimal therapeutics strategies are unclear. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment. The optimal surgical procedure for primary tumours is controversial and can vary from wide local excision or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) to an abdomino-perineal resection. A high degree of uncertainly exists regarding the benefit of radiation therapy or chemotherapy. The treatment of advanced melanoma is evolving rapidly with better understanding of the disease biology and immunology. Considerable effort has been devoted to the identification of molecular determinants of response to target therapies and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Malaguarnera
- Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vito Emanuele Catania
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bertino
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- Department of Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rosario Emanuele Perrotta
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgery Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Center "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Saverio Latteri
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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16
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Koçak H, Filiz Acıpayam A, Acıpayam H, Çakıl Erdoğan B, Yıldız N, Küfeciler L, Elbistanlı M, Kaya K. Is there a relationship between melanocytes and sensorineural hearing loss? Clinical evaluation of 51 patients with alopecia areata. Clin Otolaryngol 2017; 43:705-710. [DOI: 10.1111/coa.13011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H.E. Koçak
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - A.Ş. Filiz Acıpayam
- Department of Dermatology; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - H. Acıpayam
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - B. Çakıl Erdoğan
- Department of Dermatology; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - N.Y. Yıldız
- Department of Dermatology; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - L. Küfeciler
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - M.S. Elbistanlı
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
| | - K.H. Kaya
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery; Bakırköy Dr.Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital; Istanbul Turkey
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17
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Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) and uveal melanoma (UM) derive from cutaneous and uveal melanocytes that share the same embryonic origin and display the same cellular function. However, the etiopathogenesis and biological behaviors of these melanomas are very different. CM and UM display distinct landscapes of genetic alterations and show different metastatic routes and tropisms. Hence, therapeutic improvements achieved in the last few years for the treatment of CM have failed to ameliorate the clinical outcomes of patients with UM. The scope of this review is to discuss the differences in tumorigenic processes (etiologic factors and genetic alterations) and tumor biology (gene expression and signaling pathways) between CM and UM. We develop hypotheses to explain these differences, which might provide important clues for research avenues and the identification of actionable vulnerabilities suitable for the development of new therapeutic strategies for metastatic UM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Pandiani
- U1065, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université Côte d'Azur, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Guillaume E Béranger
- U1065, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université Côte d'Azur, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Justine Leclerc
- U1065, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université Côte d'Azur, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Robert Ballotti
- U1065, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université Côte d'Azur, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Corine Bertolotto
- U1065, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université Côte d'Azur, 06200 Nice, France
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18
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Ohba K, Takeda K, Furuse T, Suzuki T, Wakana S, Suzuki T, Yamamoto H, Shibahara S. Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor ensures the elongation of axons and dendrites in the mouse frontal cortex. Genes Cells 2016; 21:1365-1379. [PMID: 27859996 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1) is a mammalian transposable element, and its genomic insertion could cause neurological disorders in humans. Incidentally, LINE-1 is present in intron 3 of the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) gene of the black-eyed white mouse (Mitfmi-bw allele). Mice homozygous for the Mitfmi-bw allele show the white coat color with black eye and deafness. Here, we explored the functional consequences of the LINE-1 insertion in the Mitf gene using homozygous Mitfmi-bw mice on the C3H background (C3H-bw mice) or on the C57BL/6 background (bw mice). The open-field test showed that C3H-bw mice moved more irregularly in an unfamiliar environment during the 20-min period, compared to wild-type mice, suggesting the altered emotionality. Moreover, C3H-bw mice showed the lower serum creatinine levels, which may reflect the creatine deficiency. In fact, morphologically abnormal neurons and astrocytes were detected in the frontal cortex of bw mice. The immunohistochemical analysis of bw mouse tissues showed the lower intensity for expression of guanidinoacetate methyltransferase, a key enzyme in creatine synthesis, in neurons of the frontal cortex and in glomeruli and renal tubules. Thus, Mitf may ensure the elongation of axons and dendrites by maintaining creatine synthesis in the frontal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Ohba
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Takeda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Tamio Furuse
- Technology and Development Team for Mouse Phenotype Analysis, Japan Mouse Clinic, RIKEN BRC, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0074, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Suzuki
- Technology and Development Team for Mouse Phenotype Analysis, Japan Mouse Clinic, RIKEN BRC, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0074, Japan
| | - Shigeharu Wakana
- Technology and Development Team for Mouse Phenotype Analysis, Japan Mouse Clinic, RIKEN BRC, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0074, Japan
| | - Takashi Suzuki
- Department of Pathology and Histotechnology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Yamamoto
- Faculty of Bioscience, Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama, Shiga, 526-0829, Japan
| | - Shigeki Shibahara
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan.,Faculty of Sports Science, Sendai University, Shibata-Gun, Miyagi, 989-1693, Japan
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19
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Vijayavenkataraman S, Lu WF, Fuh JYH. 3D bioprinting of skin: a state-of-the-art review on modelling, materials, and processes. Biofabrication 2016; 8:032001. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/8/3/032001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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20
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Elias PM, Williams ML. Basis for the gain and subsequent dilution of epidermal pigmentation during human evolution: The barrier and metabolic conservation hypotheses revisited. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2016; 161:189-207. [PMID: 27324932 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of human skin pigmentation must address both the initial evolution of intense epidermal pigmentation in hominins, and its subsequent dilution in modern humans. While many authorities believe that epidermal pigmentation evolved to protect against either ultraviolet B (UV-B) irradiation-induced mutagenesis or folic acid photolysis, we hypothesize that pigmentation augmented the epidermal barriers by shifting the UV-B dose-response curve from toxic to beneficial. Whereas erythemogenic UV-B doses produce apoptosis and cell death, suberythemogenic doses benefit permeability and antimicrobial function. Heavily melanized melanocytes acidify the outer epidermis and emit paracrine signals that augment barrier competence. Modern humans, residing in the cooler, wetter climes of south-central Europe and Asia, initially retained substantial pigmentation. While their outdoor lifestyles still permitted sufficient cutaneous vitamin D3 (VD3) synthesis, their marginal nutritional status, coupled with cold-induced caloric needs, selected for moderate pigment reductions that diverted limited nutritional resources towards more urgent priorities (=metabolic conservation). The further pigment-dilution that evolved as humans reached north-central Europe (i.e., northern France, Germany), likely facilitated cutaneous VD3 synthesis, while also supporting ongoing, nutritional requirements. But at still higher European latitudes where little UV-B breaches the atmosphere (i.e., present-day UK, Scandinavia, Baltic States), pigment dilution alone could not suffice. There, other nonpigment-related mutations evolved to facilitate VD3 production; for example, in the epidermal protein, filaggrin, resulting in reduced levels of its distal metabolite, trans-urocanic acid, a potent UV-B chromophore. Thus, changes in human pigmentation reflect a complex interplay between latitude, climate, diet, lifestyle, and shifting metabolic priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Elias
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Dermatology Service, University of California San Francisco, California. .,Department of Dermatology, Dermatology Service, University of California San Francisco, California.
| | - Mary L Williams
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, California.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California
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21
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Takeda K, Hozumi H, Ohba K, Yamamoto H, Shibahara S. Regional Fluctuation in the Functional Consequence of LINE-1 Insertion in the Mitf Gene: The Black Spotting Phenotype Arisen from the Mitfmi-bw Mouse Lacking Melanocytes. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150228. [PMID: 26930598 PMCID: PMC4773177 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) is a key regulator for differentiation of melanoblasts, precursors to melanocytes. The mouse homozygous for the black-eyed white (Mitfmi-bw) allele is characterized by the white-coat color and deafness with black eyes due to the lack of melanocytes. The Mitfmi-bw allele carries LINE-1, a retrotransposable element, which results in the Mitf deficiency. Here, we have established the black spotting mouse that was spontaneously arisen from the homozygous Mitfmi-bw mouse lacking melanocytes. The black spotting mouse shows multiple black patches on the white coat, with age-related graying. Importantly, each black patch also contains hair follicles lacking melanocytes, whereas the white-coat area completely lacks melanocytes. RT-PCR analyses of the pigmented patches confirmed that the LINE-1 insertion is retained in the Mitf gene of the black spotting mouse, thereby excluding the possibility of the somatic reversion of the Mitfmi-bw allele. The immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the staining intensity for beta-catenin was noticeably lower in hair follicles lacking melanocytes of the homozygous Mitfmi-bw mouse and the black spotting mouse, compared to the control mouse. In contrast, the staining intensity for beta-catenin and cyclin D1 was higher in keratinocytes of the black spotting mouse, compared to keratinocytes of the control mouse and the Mitfmi-bw mouse. Moreover, the keratinocyte layer appears thicker in the Mitfmi-bw mouse, with the overexpression of Ki-67, a marker for cell proliferation. We also show that the presumptive black spots are formed by embryonic day 15.5. Thus, the black spotting mouse provides the unique model to explore the molecular basis for the survival and death of developing melanoblasts and melanocyte stem cells in the epidermis. These results indicate that follicular melanocytes are responsible for maintaining the epidermal homeostasis; namely, the present study has provided evidence for the link between melanocyte development and the epidermal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhisa Takeda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi 980–8575, Japan
| | - Hiroki Hozumi
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi 980–8575, Japan
| | - Koji Ohba
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi 980–8575, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Yamamoto
- Faculty of Bioscience, Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama, Shiga 526–0829, Japan
| | - Shigeki Shibahara
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi 980–8575, Japan
- * E-mail:
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22
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Induction of MITF expression in human cholangiocarcinoma cells and hepatocellular carcinoma cells by cyclopamine, an inhibitor of the Hedgehog signaling. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 470:144-149. [PMID: 26773496 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) is a key regulator of differentiation of melanocytes and retinal pigment epithelial cells, but it also has functions in non-pigment cells. MITF consists of multiple isoforms, including widely expressed MITF-A and MITF-H. In the present study, we explored the potential role played by the Hedgehog signaling on MITF expression in two common types of primary liver cancer, using human cholangiocarcinoma cell lines, the KKU-100 and HuCCT1, along with the HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line. Importantly, cholangiocarcinoma is characterized by the activated Hedgehog signaling. Here we show that MITF-A mRNA is predominantly expressed in all three human liver cancer cell lines examined. Moreover, cyclopamine, an inhibitor of the Hedgehog signalling, increased the expression levels of MITF proteins in HuCCT1 and HepG2 cells, but not in KKU-100 cells, suggesting that MITF expression may be down-regulated in some liver cancer cases.
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23
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Ohba K, Takeda K, Yamamoto H, Shibahara S. Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor is expressed in projection neurons of the mouse olfactory bulb. Genes Cells 2015; 20:1088-102. [DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Koji Ohba
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology; Tohoku University School of Medicine; 2-1 Seiryo-machi Aoba-ku Sendai Miyagi 980-8575 Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Takeda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology; Tohoku University School of Medicine; 2-1 Seiryo-machi Aoba-ku Sendai Miyagi 980-8575 Japan
| | - Hiroaki Yamamoto
- Faculty of Bioscience; Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology; 1266 Tamura-cho Nagahama Shiga 526-0829 Japan
| | - Shigeki Shibahara
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology; Tohoku University School of Medicine; 2-1 Seiryo-machi Aoba-ku Sendai Miyagi 980-8575 Japan
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24
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Murase D, Hachiya A, Kikuchi-Onoe M, Fullenkamp R, Ohuchi A, Kitahara T, Moriwaki S, Hase T, Takema Y. Cooperation of endothelin-1 signaling with melanosomes plays a role in developing and/or maintaining human skin hyperpigmentation. Biol Open 2015; 4:1213-21. [PMID: 26340945 PMCID: PMC4610214 DOI: 10.1242/bio.011973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin hyperpigmentation is characterized by increased melanin synthesis and deposition that can cause significant psychosocial and psychological distress. Although several cytokine-receptor signaling cascades contribute to the formation of ultraviolet B-induced cutaneous hyperpigmentation, their possible involvement in other types of skin hyperpigmentation has never been clearly addressed. Since our continuous studies using skin specimens from more than 30 subjects with ethnic skin diversity emphasized a consistent augmentation in the expression of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and its receptor (Endothelin B receptor, ET-B) in hyperpigmented lesions, including senile lentigos (SLs), the precise function of ET-1 signaling was investigated in the present study. In line with previous studies, ET-1 significantly induced melanogenesis followed by increases in melanosome transport in melanocytes and in its transfer to keratinocytes while inhibition of ET-B function substantially depressed melanogenic ability in tissue-cultured SLs. Additionally, in agreement with a previous report that the formation of autophagosomes rather than melanosomes is stimulated according to starvation or defective melanosome production, ET-1 was found to remarkably augment the expression of components necessary for early melanosome formation, indicating its counteraction against autophagy-targeting melanosome degradation in melanocytes. Despite the lack of substantial impact of ET-1 on keratinocyte melanogenic functions, the expression of ET-1 was enhanced following melanosome uptake by keratinocytes. Taken together, our data suggest that ET-1 plays a substantial role in the development and/or maintenance of skin hyperpigmentation in reciprocal cooperation with increased melanosome incorporation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Murase
- Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Corporation, Haga, Tochigi 321-3497, Japan Biological Science Americas Laboratory, Kao Corporation, Cincinnati, OH 45214, USA
| | - Akira Hachiya
- Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Corporation, Haga, Tochigi 321-3497, Japan
| | - Mamiko Kikuchi-Onoe
- Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Corporation, Haga, Tochigi 321-3497, Japan
| | - Rachel Fullenkamp
- Biological Science Americas Laboratory, Kao Corporation, Cincinnati, OH 45214, USA
| | - Atsushi Ohuchi
- Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Corporation, Haga, Tochigi 321-3497, Japan
| | - Takashi Kitahara
- Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Corporation, Haga, Tochigi 321-3497, Japan
| | - Shigeru Moriwaki
- Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Corporation, Haga, Tochigi 321-3497, Japan
| | - Tadashi Hase
- Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Corporation, Haga, Tochigi 321-3497, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Takema
- Research and Development Global, Kao Corporation, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 131-8501, Japan
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Roberts NB, Curtis SA, Milan AM, Ranganath LR. The Pigment in Alkaptonuria Relationship to Melanin and Other Coloured Substances: A Review of Metabolism, Composition and Chemical Analysis. JIMD Rep 2015; 24:51-66. [PMID: 26093627 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2015_453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The pigments found in plants, animals and humic substances are well described and classified. In humans considerable progress has been made with the main pigment melanin in defining its biochemistry, the different types and function. However, analytical techniques to show these differences in vivo are still not readily available. NMR and IR spectroscopy are relatively insensitive and reveal only major structural differences. Techniques utilising MS are useful in determining elemental content but require further studies to optimise conditions for accurate mass analysis. How the components may be structurally organised seems to be the most problematic with scanning TEM and the improved FTIR of use in this respect. As regards understanding the nature of the pigment related to HGA seen in patients with Alkaptonuria (AKU), it is still thought of as a melaninlike pigment simply because of its colour and likewise thought to be a polymer of undetermined size. It is important that detailed analysis be carried out to define more accurately this pigment. However, observations suggest it to be the same as the HGA-derived pigment, pyomelanin, produced by bacteria and containing both quinone and phenolic groups. The interesting developments in alkaptonuria will be to understand how such a polymer can cause such profound collagen and connective tissue damage and how best to reverse this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- N B Roberts
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolic Medicine, The Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals Trust, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK.
| | - S A Curtis
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolic Medicine, The Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals Trust, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK
| | - A M Milan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolic Medicine, The Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals Trust, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK
| | - L R Ranganath
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolic Medicine, The Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals Trust, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK
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26
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Audiovestibular disorders as autoimmune reaction in patients with melanoma. Med Hypotheses 2015; 85:336-8. [PMID: 26115944 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2015.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is an aggressive form of cancer derived from neuroectodermal melanocytes. Melanocytes are present in the skin and hair follicles, as well as in the eye (iris and choroids), the leptomeninges, the anal canal and the inner ear. In the inner ear melanocytes are found both in the intermediate layer of the stria vascularis of the cochlea and in the dark cells of the vestibular organs. They are believed to play an important role in the production of endolymphatic potentials and in the maintenance of normal volumes of the inner ear fluids. Recently, audiovestibular dysfunctions have been demonstrated in patients treated with immunotherapy for metastatic melanoma and have been related to an autoimmune attack on the normal melanocytes of the inner ear. Melanoma is an immunogenic tumor type frequently associated with spontaneous autoimmune manifestations which seem to be associated with better prognosis. The melanoma-associated antigens are also expressed in normal melanocytes in the skin, eye and ear. We hypothesize that inner ear melanocytes could be a target of an autoimmune process in patients affected by melanoma. The immune system could produce antibodies that cross-react with both the melanoma cells and the labyrinth melanocytes causing an altered homeostasis of endolymphatic liquids and provoking some labyrinthic disorders such as vertigo, hearing loss, aural fullness and tinnitus resembling or influencing Ménière's disease. In this perspective, audiovestibular disorders could be interpreted as an attempt by the individual immune system to develop anti-tumor response. In patients affected by melanoma an autoimmune genesis has already been advocated for ocular symptoms in melanoma-associated retinopathy, where the cross-reaction happens against retinal cells. A possible role of inner ear melanocytes should be considered as a potential cause of audiovestibular disorders. Further research is needed to demonstrate a connection between melanoma and labyrinth dysfunctions such as in melanoma-associated retinopathy.
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27
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Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor as the molecular target of cadmium toxicity in human melanocytes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 454:594-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.10.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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28
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Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Subversion of the Anti-Inflammatory Response in Human Skin Cells Reveals Correlates of Latency and Disease Pathogenesis. J Skin Cancer 2014; 2014:246076. [PMID: 24701351 PMCID: PMC3951102 DOI: 10.1155/2014/246076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Revised: 12/14/2013] [Accepted: 12/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
KSHV is the etiologic agent for Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), a neoplasm that manifests most aggressively as multifocal lesions on parts of human skin with a propensity for inflammatory reactivity. However, mechanisms that control evolution of KS from a benign hyperplasia to the histologically complex cutaneous lesion remain unknown. In this study, we found that KSHV induces proteomic and morphological changes in melanocytes and melanoma-derived cell lines, accompanied by deregulation of the endogenous anti-inflammatory responses anchored by the MC1-R/α-MSH signaling axis. We also identified two skin-derived cell lines that displayed differences in ability to support long-term KSHV infection and mapped this dichotomy to differences in (a) NF-κB activation status, (b) processing and expression of KSHV latency-associated nuclear antigen isoforms putatively associated with the viral lytic cycle, and (c) susceptibility to virus-induced changes in expression of key anti-inflammatory response genes that antagonize NF-κB, including MC1-R, POMC, TRP-1, and xCT. Viral subversion of molecules that control the balance between latency and lytic replication represents a novel correlate of KSHV pathogenesis and tropism in skin and underscores the potential benefit of harnessing the endogenous anti-inflammatory processes as a therapeutic option for attenuating cutaneous KS and other proinflammatory outcomes of KSHV infection in high-risk individuals.
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Takeda K, Hozumi H, Nakai K, Yoshizawa M, Satoh H, Yamamoto H, Shibahara S. Insertion of long interspersed element-1 in the Mitf gene is associated with altered neurobehavior of the black-eyed white Mitf(mi-bw) mouse. Genes Cells 2013; 19:126-40. [PMID: 24304702 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) is required for the differentiation of melanoblasts of the neural crest origin. The mouse homozygous for the black-eyed white (Mitf(mi-bw) ) allele is characterized by white-coat color and deafness with black eye, due to the loss of melanoblasts during embryonic development. The Mitf(mi-bw) allele carries an insertion of long interspersed element-1 (L1) in intron 3 of the Mitf gene, which may cause the deficiency of melanocyte-specific Mitf-M. Here, we show that the L1 insertion results in the generation of alternatively spliced Mitf-M mRNA species, such as Mitf-M mRNA lacking exon 3, exon 4 or both exons 3 and 4, each of which encodes Mitf-M protein with an internal deletion. Transient expression assays showed the loss of or reduction in function of each aberrant Mitf-M protein and the dominant negative effect of Mitf-M lacking exon 4 that encodes an activation domain. Thus, the L1 insertion may decrease the expression level of functional Mitf-M. Importantly, Mitf-M mRNA is expressed in the wild-type mouse brain, with the highest expression level in the hypothalamus. Likewise, aberrant Mitf-M mRNAs are expressed in the bw mouse brain. The bw mice show the altered neurobehavior under a stressful environment, suggesting the role of Mitf-M in sensory perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhisa Takeda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan
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30
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Elias PM, Williams ML. Re-appraisal of current theories for the development and loss of epidermal pigmentation in hominins and modern humans. J Hum Evol 2013; 64:687-92. [PMID: 23478159 PMCID: PMC3654079 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2013.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Elias
- Dermatology Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 4150 Clement Street, MS 190, San Francisco, CA 94121, USA.
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31
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Liu F, Wen B, Kayser M. Colorful DNA polymorphisms in humans. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2013; 24:562-75. [PMID: 23587773 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2013.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In this review article we summarize current knowledge on how variation on the DNA level influences human pigmentation including color variation of iris, hair, and skin. We review recent progress in the field of human pigmentation genetics by focusing on the genes and DNA polymorphisms discovered to be involved in determining human pigmentation traits, their association with diseases particularly skin cancers, and their power to predict human eye, hair, and skin colors with potential utilization in forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Liu
- Department of Forensic Molecular Biology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
AbstractThe majority of melanocytes originate from the neural crest cells (NCC) that migrate, spread on the whole embryo’s body to form elements of the nervous system and skeleton, endocrinal glands, muscles and melanocytes. Human melanocytes differentiate mainly from the cranial and trunk NCC. Although melanocyte development has traditionally been associated with the dorsally migrating trunk NCC, there is evidence that a part of melanocytes arise from cells migrating ventrally. The ventral NCC differentiate into neurons and glia of the ganglia or Schwann cells. It has been suggested that the precursors for Schwann cells differentiate into melanocytes. As melanoblasts travel through the dermis, they multiply, follow the process of differentiation and invade the forming human fetal epidermis up to third month. After birth, melanocytes lose the ability to proliferate, except the hair melanocytes that renew during the hair cycle. The localization of neural crest-derived melanocytes in non-cutaneous places e.g. eye (the choroid and stroma of the iris and the ciliary body), ear (cells of the vestibular organ, cochlear stria vascularis), meninges of the brain, heart seems to indicate that repertoire of melanocyte functions is much wider than we expected e.g. the protection of tissues from potentially harmful factors (e.g. free radicals, binding toxins), storage ions, and anti-inflammatory action.
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33
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Hozumi H, Takeda K, Yoshida-Amano Y, Takemoto Y, Kusumi R, Fukuzaki-Dohi U, Higashitani A, Yamamoto H, Shibahara S. Impaired development of melanoblasts in the black-eyed white Mitf(mi-bw) mouse, a model for auditory-pigmentary disorders. Genes Cells 2012; 17:494-508. [PMID: 22563733 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2443.2012.01603.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) is a regulator for differentiation of melanoblasts that are derived from the neural crest. The mouse homozygous for the black-eyed white (Mitf(mi-bw)) allele is characterized by the white coat color and deafness, with black eye that is associated with the lack of melanocytes in skin and inner ear. The Mitf(mi-bw) mutation is an insertion of the LINE1 retrotransposable element into intron 3 of the Mitf gene that causes the selective deficiency of the melanocyte-specific Mitf isoform, Mitf-M. Here, we show the expression of Mitf-M mRNA in the trunk region of the homozygous Mitf(mi-bw)(bw) mouse at embryonic days (E) 11.5 and E12.5, but Mitf-M mRNA is undetectable at E13.5. In addition, using bw mouse that carries the lacZ transgene under the control of a melanoblast-specific promoter, we show that the number of migrating melanoblasts in bw embryos was less than 10% of that in control embryos at E11.5 and E12.5, and melanoblasts disappear by E13.5. The loss of melanoblasts in bw embryos was probably caused by apoptosis. Finally, forced expression of Mitf-M in the cultured neural tube of bw embryos ensured the differentiation of melanoblasts. Therefore, the correct dose of Mitf-M is required for the normal development of melanoblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Hozumi
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8575, Japan
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34
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Shimanuki M, Takeda K, Kawaguchi M, Suzuki T, Shibahara S. Lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase as a marker for the proliferative potential of melanocyte-lineage cells in the human skin. J Dermatol 2012; 39:699-704. [PMID: 22299829 DOI: 10.1111/j.1346-8138.2011.01485.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melanocytes in the human epidermis actively produce and secrete various substances, thereby contributing to the maintenance of the skin homeostasis. Lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase (L-PGDS) that catalyzes the formation of prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2) ) may be one of such secreted molecules. Once secreted, L-PGDS functions as a transporter for lipophilic ligands, including all-trans retinoic acid (RA). L-PGDS, therefore, may possess pleiotropic functions in the skin through PGD(2) and RA. We aimed to identify the cell types that express L-PGDS in human skin and to explore the role of L-PGDS in the growth potential of melanocyte-lineage cells. Immunohistochemical analysis for L-PGDS expression was performed with the tissue sections that were prepared from five malignant melanomas, six nevus cell nevi and one Spitz nevus. Normal skin tissues adjacent to the excised melanoma tissues were also analyzed. L-PGDS is expressed in epidermal melanocytes but its expression is undetectable in keratinocytes. Moreover, L-PGDS is undetectable in most benign nevus cells, which may reflect the marginally accelerated proliferation of nevus cells. In contrast, L-PGDS is overexpressed in malignant melanomas, although the frequency of L-PGDS-positive cells was variable (15-50%), depending on the specimens. Lastly, RNA interference analysis against human L-PGDS was performed with short interfering RNA. Knockdown of L-PGDS expression with short interfering RNA in cultured cells suggests that L-PGDS may restrict cell proliferation through RA. In conclusion, L-PGDS expression may contribute to the restricted proliferation of epidermal melanocytes, but conversely its overexpression may reflect the dysregulated proliferation of melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Shimanuki
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata University, Yamagata, Japan
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35
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36
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Elias PM, Menon G, Wetzel BK, Williams JJW. Barrier requirements as the evolutionary "driver" of epidermal pigmentation in humans. Am J Hum Biol 2010; 22:526-37. [PMID: 20209486 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.21043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Current explanations for the development of epidermal pigmentation during human evolution are not tenable as stand-alone hypotheses. Accordingly, we assessed instead whether xeric- and UV-B-induced stress to the epidermal permeability barrier, critical to survival in a terrestrial environment, could have "driven" the development of epidermal pigmentation. (1) Megadroughts prevailed in central Africa when hominids expanded into open savannahs [approximately 1.5-0.8 million years ago], resulting in sustained exposure to both extreme aridity and erythemogenic UV-B, correlating with genetic evidence that pigment developed approximately 1.2 million years ago. (2) Pigmented skin is endowed with enhanced permeability barrier function, stratum corneum integrity/cohesion, and a reduced susceptibility to infections. The enhanced function of pigmented skin can be attributed to the lower pH of the outer epidermis, likely due to the persistence of (more-acidic) melanosomes into the outer epidermis, as well as the conservation of genes associated with eumelanin synthesis and melanosome acidification (e.g., TYR, OCA2 [p protein], SLC24A5, SLC45A2, MATP) in pigmented populations. Five keratinocyte-derived signals (stem cell factor-->KIT; FOXn1-->FGF2; IL-1alpha, NGF, and p53) are potential candidates to have stimulated the sequential development of epidermal pigmentation in response to stress to the barrier. We summarize evidence here that epidermal interfollicular pigmentation in early hominids likely evolved in response to stress to the permeability barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Elias
- Dermatology Services, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA.
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37
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Theoretical studies on model reaction pathways of prostaglandin H2 isomerization to prostaglandin D2/E2. Theor Chem Acc 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s00214-010-0814-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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38
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Hager T, Walter HS, Seitz B, Käsmann-Kellner B. Blickdiagnose. Ophthalmologe 2010; 107:660-2. [DOI: 10.1007/s00347-009-2084-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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39
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Takeda K, Takahashi NH, Yoshizawa M, Shibahara S. Lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase as a regulator of the retinoic acid signalling in melanocytes. J Biochem 2010; 148:139-48. [PMID: 20403807 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvq040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase (L-PGDS) catalyses the formation of prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2)) and also functions as a transporter for lipophilic ligands, including all-trans retinoic acid (RA). Here, we show that human epidermal melanocytes produce and secrete L-PGDS and PGD(2) in culture medium, whereas L-PGDS is not expressed in human melanoma cell lines, HMV-II, SK-MEL-28, 624 mel and G361. Treatment with RA (1 or 10 microM) for 4 days decreased the proliferation of melanocytes (30% decrease), but not melanoma cells. We therefore isolated L-PGDS-expressing cell lines from 624 mel cells. Treatment with RA decreased the proliferation of L-PGDS-expressing cells by 20%, but not mock-transfected cell lines lacking L-PGDS expression. RA induced expression of a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21(Cip1) in L-PGDS-expressing cells, but not mock-transfected cells. Moreover, RA increased the transient expression of a reporter gene carrying the RA-responsive elements in L-PGDS-expressing cell lines (at least 5-fold activation), compared to the 2-fold activation in mock-transfected cell lines, suggesting that L-PGDS may increase the sensitivity to RA. Lastly, the knockdown of L-PGDS expression by RNA interference was associated with the restoration of the RA-mediated decrease in proliferation of human and mouse melanocytes. In conclusion, L-PGDS may fine-tune the RA signalling in melanocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhisa Takeda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8575, Japan.
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40
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Han F, Takeda K, Ono M, Date F, Ishikawa K, Yokoyama S, Shinozawa Y, Furuyama K, Shibahara S. Hypoxemia induces expression of heme oxygenase-1 and heme oxygenase-2 proteins in the mouse myocardium. J Biochem 2009; 147:143-51. [DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvp153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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41
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Plonka PM, Passeron T, Brenner M, Tobin DJ, Shibahara S, Thomas A, Slominski A, Kadekaro AL, Hershkovitz D, Peters E, Nordlund JJ, Abdel-Malek Z, Takeda K, Paus R, Ortonne JP, Hearing VJ, Schallreuter KU. What are melanocytes really doing all day long...? Exp Dermatol 2009; 18:799-819. [PMID: 19659579 PMCID: PMC2792575 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2009.00912.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Everyone knows and seems to agree that melanocytes are there to generate melanin - an intriguing, but underestimated multipurpose molecule that is capable of doing far more than providing pigment and UV protection to skin (1). What about the cell that generates melanin, then? Is this dendritic, neural crest-derived cell still serving useful (or even important) functions when no-one looks at the pigmentation of our skin and its appendages and when there is essentially no UV exposure? In other words, what do epidermal and hair follicle melanocytes do in their spare time - at night, under your bedcover? How much of the full portfolio of physiological melanocyte functions in mammalian skin has really been elucidated already? Does the presence or absence of melanocytes matter for normal epidermal and/or hair follicle functions (beyond pigmentation and UV protection), and for skin immune responses? Do melanocytes even deserve as much credit for UV protection as conventional wisdom attributes to them? In which interactions do these promiscuous cells engage with their immediate epithelial environment and who is controlling whom? What lessons might be distilled from looking at lower vertebrate melanophores and at extracutaneous melanocytes in the endeavour to reveal the 'secret identity' of melanocytes? The current Controversies feature explores these far too infrequently posed, biologically and clinically important questions. Complementing a companion viewpoint essay on malignant melanocytes (2), this critical re-examination of melanocyte biology provides a cornucopia of old, but under-appreciated concepts and novel ideas on the slowly emerging complexity of physiological melanocyte functions, and delineates important, thought-provoking questions that remain to be definitively answered by future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Plonka
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, PL-30-387 Kraków, Poland.
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42
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Furuya R, Yoshida Y, Moro O, Tsunenaga M, Aoki H, Kishimoto J, Ifuku O, Hirobe T. Immunohistochemical survey of the distribution of epidermal melanoblasts and melanocytes during the development of UVB-induced pigmented spots. J Dermatol Sci 2009; 55:99-107. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2009.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2008] [Revised: 02/21/2009] [Accepted: 03/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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43
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Elias PM, Menon G, Wetzel BK, Williams JJW. Evidence that stress to the epidermal barrier influenced the development of pigmentation in humans. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2009; 22:420-34. [PMID: 19508412 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-148x.2009.00588.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Elias
- Dermatology Services, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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44
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Induction of lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase in mouse heart under hypoxemia. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2009; 385:449-53. [PMID: 19470375 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.05.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2009] [Accepted: 05/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxemia is a common manifestation of various disorders and generates pressure overload to the heart. Here we analyzed the expression of lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase (L-PGDS) in the heart of C57BL/6 mice kept under normobaric hypoxia (10% O2) that generates hemodynamic stress. Northern and Western blot analyses revealed that the expression levels of L-PGDS mRNA and protein were significantly increased (> twofold) after 14 days of hypoxia, compared to the mice kept under normoxia. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated that L-PGDS was increased in the myocardium of auricles and ventricles and the pulmonary venous myocardium at 28 days of hypoxia. Moreover, using C57BL/6 mice lacking heme oxygenase-2 (HO-2(-/-)), a model of chronic hypoxemia, we showed that the expression level of L-PGDS protein was twofold higher in the heart than that of wild-type mouse. L-PGDS expression is induced in the myocardium under hypoxemia, which may reflect the adaptation to the hemodynamic stress.
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Abstract
It is now well established that a subpopulation of tumor stem cells (TSCs) are present within cancer tissues. This suggests that tumors evolve from stem cells; however, the exact cell of tumor origin, the potential role of dedifferentiation, and the role of plasticity in tumor development are largely unknown. A model cancer for the study of the oncologic process is melanoma. The developmental biology of melanocytes is relatively well understood, the cells pigment as they differentiate making them easy to identify, and benign and malignant tumors develop on the skin surface allowing direct observation of growth features, early detection, and removal. This ready access to early-stage tumors will facilitate study of the early oncologic processes and the role of tissue stem cells. Melanomas, like other cancers, include a subpopulation of TSCs. These TSCs have access to embryologic developmental programs, including the capacity to differentiate along multiple cell lineages. For example, melanomas can activate germ-cell pathways with major implications for TSC self-renewal through the activation of telomerase and genomic instability through the collision of meiotic and mitotic pathways (meiomitosis). The TSC model is still evolving, but the existence of TSCs has significant ramifications for tumor development, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of melanoma and other cancers.
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46
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Melanin directly converts light for vertebrate metabolic use: Heuristic thoughts on birds, Icarus and dark human skin. Med Hypotheses 2008; 71:190-202. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2008.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2008] [Revised: 03/18/2008] [Accepted: 03/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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47
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Marrot L, Jones C, Perez P, Meunier JR. The significance of Nrf2 pathway in (photo)-oxidative stress response in melanocytes and keratinocytes of the human epidermis. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2008; 21:79-88. [PMID: 18353146 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-148x.2007.00424.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The expression of genes encoding antioxidant and/or phase 2 detoxifying enzymes can be enhanced in response to various environmental stresses. The main transcription factor involved in this response is nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Nrf2 activity is negatively regulated by the protein Kelch-like-Ech-associated-protein 1 (Keap1). While the roles of Nrf2 and phase 2 genes in chemoprevention of carcinogenesis have been well described; only few studies have dealt with their role in skin cancer. Normal human keratinocytes (NHK) and melanocytes (NHM) were treated by chemical inducers of the Nrf2 pathway or by small interfering RNAs (siRNA) used to knock down Keap1 mRNA. The above treatments resulted in significant stimulation of NQO-1 (NADPH-Quinone-Oxidoreductase 1) gene expression. GCL (gamma-Glutamyl-cysteinyl-ligase) gene was also induced but interestingly increased mRNA encoding the catalytic, heavy subunit GCLC was mainly stimulated in NHK, whereas the mRNA encoding the modifier, light subunit GCLM was mostly induced in NHM. HO-1 (Heme Oxygenase 1) gene induction was relatively strong in NHM, but generally absent in NHK, except when the cells were subjected to cytotoxic doses of the above chemicals. Exposure to solar UV (UVB + UVA, 300-400 nm) or to UVA alone (320-400 nm) confirmed this trend, but interestingly, at doses where cell growth reduction was comparable, UVA was generally more efficient than solar UV in inducing phase 2 genes. When siRNAs directed against Nrf2 were used, a strong down-regulation of NQO-1 expression was observed in both, NHM and NHK, whereas reduction of HO-1 expression was mainly detected in NHM. To our knowledge, this is the first study comparing phase 2 gene modulation in NHK and NHM. The results hereby presented should contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in skin adaptation to environmental stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Marrot
- Department of Safety Research, Phototoxicity Unit, L'OREAL Research, Aulnay-Sous-Bois, France.
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Shibahara S, Han F, Li B, Takeda K. Hypoxia and heme oxygenases: oxygen sensing and regulation of expression. Antioxid Redox Signal 2007; 9:2209-25. [PMID: 17887916 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2007.1784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Heme is an essential molecule for life, as it is involved in sensing and using oxygen. Heme must be synthesized and degraded within an individual nucleated cell. Physiologic heme degradation is catalyzed by two functional isozymes of heme oxygenase, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and HO-2, yielding carbon monoxide, iron, and biliverdin, an immediate precursor to bilirubin. HO-1 is an inducible enzyme, but the expression level of HO-2 is maintained in a narrow range. Characteristically, human HO-1 contains no Cys residue, whereas human HO-2 contains three Cys residues, each of which might be involved in heme binding. These features suggest separate physiologic roles of HO-1 and HO-2. Recent studies have shown that the expression levels of HO-1 and HO-2 are reduced under hypoxia, depending on the cell types. Moreover, we have proposed HO-2 as a potential O(2) sensor, because HO-2-deficient mice show hypoxemia and a blunted hypoxic ventilatory response with normal hypercapnic ventilatory response. HO-2-deficient mice also show hypertrophy of the pulmonary venous myocardium and enlargement of the carotid body. These morphometric changes are attributable to chronic hypoxemia. Here, we update the understanding of the regulation of HO-1 and HO-2 expression and summarize the regulatory role of HO-2 in the intercellular communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeki Shibahara
- Department of Molecular Biology and Applied Physiology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan.
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Käsmann-Kellner B, Seitz B. [Phenotype of the visual system in oculocutaneous and ocular albinism]. Ophthalmologe 2007; 104:648-61. [PMID: 17684749 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-007-1571-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In spite of albinism being one of the visual impairments which has been known for over a century, it has only been known for a few decades that albinism is correlated to severe cerebral morphological developmental alterations. The increasing knowledge about the role of melanin in the development and orientation of cerebral neurons not only renders more insight into albinism, but also a greater insight in the physiological neuronal and cerebral development in man. Concerning the morphological and visual phenotype there are new clinical findings which enlarge the known spectrum of albinism. In a representative group of 506 persons with oculocutaneous and ocular albinism who are in care at the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Saarland (UKS), we present a staging of morphological findings of the iris, retinal pigment epithelium and macula, and of the optic nerve head which has been in use for 10 years. Albinism may present with a remarkably mild ocular phenotype and a near to normal functional phenotype. We present correlations between molecular genetic types of albinism, ocular phenotype and visual function. Of great importance concerning later visual acuity is the dysplasia of the optic nerve head (ONH), which is a frequent finding in albinism. The appearance of the ONH should always be included in any clinical description of an albinism patient. It is highly possible that due to a moderate phenotype there are still many patients who have not been diagnosed yet. Visual acuity of 30/20 to 20/20 and no nystagmus do not rule out albinism. In addition, when performing albino VEPs in phenotypically normal children with infantile strabismus, small ONHs, but normal visual acuity and no nystagmus, the classical atypical chiasmal crossing is sometimes found. Therefore, the number of persons having undiagnosed albinism is probably quite high, perhaps there even is a very broad transition zone from normal to albinotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Käsmann-Kellner
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde im Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes UKS, Kirrbergerstrasse 1, 66424, Homburg (Saar), Deutschland.
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