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Barati M, Akhondi M, Mousavi NS, Haghparast N, Ghodsi A, Baharvand H, Ebrahimi M, Hassani SN. Pluripotent Stem Cells: Cancer Study, Therapy, and Vaccination. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1975-1992. [PMID: 34115316 PMCID: PMC8193020 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10199-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are promising tools for modern regenerative medicine applications because of their stemness properties, which include unlimited self-renewal and the ability to differentiate into all cell types in the body. Evidence suggests that a rare population of cells within a tumor, termed cancer stem cells (CSCs), exhibit stemness and phenotypic plasticity properties that are primarily responsible for resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, metastasis, cancer development, and tumor relapse. Different therapeutic approaches that target CSCs have been developed for tumor eradication. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION In this review, we first provide an overview of different viewpoints about the origin of CSCs. Particular attention has been paid to views believe that CSCs are probably appeared through dysregulation of very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) which reside in various tissues as the main candidate for tissue-specific stem cells. The expression of pluripotency markers in these two types of cells can strengthen the validity of this theory. In this regard, we discuss the common properties of CSCs and PSCs, and highlight the potential of PSCs in cancer studies, therapeutic applications, as well as educating the immune system against CSCs. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the resemblance of CSCs to PSCs can provide an appropriate source of CSC-specific antigens through cultivation of PSCs which brings to light promising ideas for prophylactic and therapeutic cancer vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Barati
- Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Akhondi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Sabahi Mousavi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Newsha Haghparast
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asma Ghodsi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Baharvand
- Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh-Nafiseh Hassani
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product Technology Development Center (ATMP-TDC), Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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de Souza Lima IM, Schiavinato JLDS, Paulino Leite SB, Sastre D, Bezerra HLDO, Sangiorgi B, Corveloni AC, Thomé CH, Faça VM, Covas DT, Zago MA, Giacca M, Mano M, Panepucci RA. High-content screen in human pluripotent cells identifies miRNA-regulated pathways controlling pluripotency and differentiation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:202. [PMID: 31287022 PMCID: PMC6615276 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1318-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background By post-transcriptionally regulating multiple target transcripts, microRNAs (miRNAs or miR) play important biological functions. H1 embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and NTera-2 embryonal carcinoma cells (ECCs) are two of the most widely used human pluripotent model cell lines, sharing several characteristics, including the expression of miRNAs associated to the pluripotent state or with differentiation. However, how each of these miRNAs functionally impacts the biological properties of these cells has not been systematically evaluated. Methods We investigated the effects of 31 miRNAs on NTera-2 and H1 hESCs, by transfecting miRNA mimics. Following 3–4 days of culture, cells were stained for the pluripotency marker OCT4 and the G2 cell-cycle marker Cyclin B1, and nuclei and cytoplasm were co-stained with Hoechst and Cell Mask Blue, respectively. By using automated quantitative fluorescence microscopy (i.e., high-content screening (HCS)), we obtained several morphological and marker intensity measurements, in both cell compartments, allowing the generation of a multiparametric miR-induced phenotypic profile describing changes related to proliferation, cell cycle, pluripotency, and differentiation. Results Despite the overall similarities between both cell types, some miRNAs elicited cell-specific effects, while some related miRNAs induced contrasting effects in the same cell. By identifying transcripts predicted to be commonly targeted by miRNAs inducing similar effects (profiles grouped by hierarchical clustering), we were able to uncover potentially modulated signaling pathways and biological processes, likely mediating the effects of the microRNAs on the distinct groups identified. Specifically, we show that miR-363 contributes to pluripotency maintenance, at least in part, by targeting NOTCH1 and PSEN1 and inhibiting Notch-induced differentiation, a mechanism that could be implicated in naïve and primed pluripotent states. Conclusions We present the first multiparametric high-content microRNA functional screening in human pluripotent cells. Integration of this type of data with similar data obtained from siRNA screenings (using the same HCS assay) could provide a large-scale functional approach to identify and validate microRNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms controlling pluripotency and differentiation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-019-1318-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildercílio Mota de Souza Lima
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Josiane Lilian Dos Santos Schiavinato
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Sarah Blima Paulino Leite
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Danuta Sastre
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil
| | - Hudson Lenormando de Oliveira Bezerra
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno Sangiorgi
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Amanda Cristina Corveloni
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Carolina Hassibe Thomé
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Vitor Marcel Faça
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Dimas Tadeu Covas
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Marco Antônio Zago
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Mauro Giacca
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic and Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Miguel Mano
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic and Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Alexandre Panepucci
- Laboratory of Functional Biology (LFBio), Center for Cell-Based Therapy (CTC), Regional Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Rua Tenente Catão Roxo, 2501, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP: 14051-140, Brazil. .,Department of Genetics and Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Kim YH, Kim BJ, Kim SM, Kim SU, Ryu BY. Induction of cardiomyocyte‑like cells from hair follicle cells in mice. Int J Mol Med 2019; 43:2230-2240. [PMID: 30864673 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Hair follicles (HFs) are a well‑characterized niche for adult stem cells (SCs), and include epithelial and melanocytic SCs. HF cells are an accessible source of multipotent adult SCs for the generation of the interfollicular epidermis, HF structures and sebaceous glands in addition to the reconstitution of novel HFs in vivo. In the present study, it was demonstrated that HF cells are able to be induced to differentiate into cardiomyocyte‑like cells in vitro under specific conditions. It was determined that HF cells cultured on OP9 feeder cells in KnockOut‑Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium/B27 in the presence of vascular endothelial growth factors differentiated into cardiomyocyte‑like cells that express markers specific to cardiac lineage, but do not express non‑cardiac lineage markers including neural stem/progenitor cell, HF bulge cells or undifferentiated spermatogonia markers. These cardiomyocyte‑like cells exhibited a spindle‑ and filament‑shaped morphology similar to that presented by cardiac muscles and exhibited spontaneous beating that persisted for over 3 months. These results demonstrate that SC reprogramming and differentiation may be induced without resulting in any genetic modification, which is important for the clinical applications of SCs including tissue and organ regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Hee Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, College of Biotechnology and Natural Resources, Chung‑Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi‑do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Bang-Jin Kim
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Seok-Man Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, College of Biotechnology and Natural Resources, Chung‑Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi‑do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Uk Kim
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk‑do 28116, Republic of Korea
| | - Buom-Yong Ryu
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, College of Biotechnology and Natural Resources, Chung‑Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi‑do 17546, Republic of Korea
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Epsins Regulate Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell Exit from Pluripotency and Neural Commitment by Controlling Notch Activation. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:4084351. [PMID: 30930949 PMCID: PMC6410434 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4084351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Epsins are part of the internalization machinery pivotal to control clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Here, we report that epsin family members are expressed in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and that epsin1/2 knockdown alters both mESC exits from pluripotency and their differentiation. Furthermore, we show that epsin1/2 knockdown compromises the correct polarization and division of mESC-derived neural progenitors and their conversion into expandable radial glia-like neural stem cells. Finally, we provide evidence that Notch signaling is impaired following epsin1/2 knockdown and that experimental restoration of Notch signaling rescues the epsin-mediated phenotypes. We conclude that epsins contribute to control mESC exit from pluripotency and allow their neural differentiation by appropriate modulation of Notch signaling.
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The Histone Variant MacroH2A Blocks Cellular Reprogramming by Inhibiting Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition. Mol Cell Biol 2018; 38:MCB.00669-17. [PMID: 29483300 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00669-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor-induced reprogramming of somatic cells to pluripotency is mediated via profound alterations in the epigenetic landscape. The histone variant macroH2A1 (mH2A1) is a barrier to the cellular reprogramming process. We demonstrate here that mH2A1 blocks reprogramming and contributes to the preservation of cell identity by trapping cells at the very early stages of the process, namely, at the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET). We provide a comprehensive analysis of the genomic sites occupied by the mH2A1 nucleosomes in human fibroblasts and embryonic stem (ES) cells and how they affect the reprogramming of fibroblasts to pluripotency. We have integrated chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) data with transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) data using cells containing reduced levels of mH2A1 and have inferred mH2A1-centered gene-regulatory networks that support the fibroblast and ES cell fates. We found that the exact positions of mH2A1 nucleosomes in regulatory regions of specific network genes with key regulatory roles guarantee the functional robustness of the regulatory networks. Using the reconstructed networks, we can predict and validate several components and their interactions in the establishment of stable cell types by limiting progression to alternative cell fates.
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Bigas A, Porcheri C. Notch and Stem Cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1066:235-263. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-89512-3_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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A dual molecular analogue tuner for dissecting protein function in mammalian cells. Nat Commun 2016; 7:11742. [PMID: 27230261 PMCID: PMC4895048 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms11742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss-of-function studies are fundamental for dissecting gene function. Yet, methods
to rapidly and effectively perturb genes in mammalian cells, and particularly in
stem cells, are scarce. Here we present a system for simultaneous conditional
regulation of two different proteins in the same mammalian cell. This system
harnesses the plant auxin and jasmonate hormone-induced degradation pathways, and is
deliverable with only two lentiviral vectors. It combines RNAi-mediated silencing of
two endogenous proteins with the expression of two exogenous proteins whose
degradation is induced by external ligands in a rapid, reversible, titratable and
independent manner. By engineering molecular tuners for NANOG, CHK1, p53 and NOTCH1
in mammalian stem cells, we have validated the applicability of the system and
demonstrated its potential to unravel complex biological processes. Loss-of-function approaches are fundamental for dissecting the roles
played by genes but methods to simultaneously perturb several proteins in the same
mammalian cell are scarce. Here the authors harness the plant auxin and jasmonate
hormone-degradation pathways and RNAi technology, to control the levels of two proteins
and validate its application in stem cells.
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Souilhol C, Perea-Gomez A, Camus A, Beck-Cormier S, Vandormael-Pournin S, Escande M, Collignon J, Cohen-Tannoudji M. NOTCH activation interferes with cell fate specification in the gastrulating mouse embryo. Development 2016; 142:3649-60. [PMID: 26534985 DOI: 10.1242/dev.121145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
NOTCH signalling is an evolutionarily conserved pathway involved in intercellular communication essential for cell fate choices during development. Although dispensable for early aspects of mouse development, canonical RBPJ-dependent NOTCH signalling has been shown to influence lineage commitment during embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation. NOTCH activation in ESCs promotes the acquisition of a neural fate, whereas its suppression favours their differentiation into cardiomyocytes. This suggests that NOTCH signalling is implicated in the acquisition of distinct embryonic fates at early stages of mammalian development. In order to investigate in vivo such a role for NOTCH signalling in shaping cell fate specification, we use genetic approaches to constitutively activate the NOTCH pathway in the mouse embryo. Early embryonic development, including the establishment of anterior-posterior polarity, is not perturbed by forced NOTCH activation. By contrast, widespread NOTCH activity in the epiblast triggers dramatic gastrulation defects. These are fully rescued in a RBPJ-deficient background. Epiblast-specific NOTCH activation induces acquisition of neurectoderm identity and disrupts the formation of specific mesodermal precursors including the derivatives of the anterior primitive streak, the mouse organiser. In addition, we show that forced NOTCH activation results in misregulation of NODAL signalling, a major determinant of early embryonic patterning. Our study reveals a previously unidentified role for canonical NOTCH signalling during mammalian gastrulation. It also exemplifies how in vivo studies can shed light on the mechanisms underlying cell fate specification during in vitro directed differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Souilhol
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Génétique Fonctionnelle de la Souris, Département de Biologie du Développement et Cellules Souches, 25 rue du docteur Roux, Paris F-75015, France CNRS URA 2578, Paris F-75015, France
| | - Aitana Perea-Gomez
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS, UMR7592, Univ Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris F-75205, France
| | - Anne Camus
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS, UMR7592, Univ Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris F-75205, France
| | - Sarah Beck-Cormier
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Génétique Fonctionnelle de la Souris, Département de Biologie du Développement et Cellules Souches, 25 rue du docteur Roux, Paris F-75015, France CNRS URA 2578, Paris F-75015, France
| | - Sandrine Vandormael-Pournin
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Génétique Fonctionnelle de la Souris, Département de Biologie du Développement et Cellules Souches, 25 rue du docteur Roux, Paris F-75015, France CNRS URA 2578, Paris F-75015, France
| | - Marie Escande
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Génétique Fonctionnelle de la Souris, Département de Biologie du Développement et Cellules Souches, 25 rue du docteur Roux, Paris F-75015, France CNRS URA 2578, Paris F-75015, France
| | - Jérôme Collignon
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS, UMR7592, Univ Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris F-75205, France
| | - Michel Cohen-Tannoudji
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Génétique Fonctionnelle de la Souris, Département de Biologie du Développement et Cellules Souches, 25 rue du docteur Roux, Paris F-75015, France CNRS URA 2578, Paris F-75015, France
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QI FEI, WEI LIHUI, SHEN ALING, CHEN YOUQIN, LIN JIUMAO, CHU JIANFENG, CAI QIAOYAN, PAN JIE, PENG JUN. Pien Tze Huang inhibits the proliferation, and induces the apoptosis and differentiation of colorectal cancer stem cells via suppression of the Notch1 pathway. Oncol Rep 2015; 35:511-7. [PMID: 26530025 DOI: 10.3892/or.2015.4378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Hadjimichael C, Chanoumidou K, Papadopoulou N, Arampatzi P, Papamatheakis J, Kretsovali A. Common stemness regulators of embryonic and cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:1150-1184. [PMID: 26516408 PMCID: PMC4620423 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i9.1150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 05/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotency of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells is regulated by a well characterized gene transcription circuitry. The circuitry is assembled by ESC specific transcription factors, signal transducing molecules and epigenetic regulators. Growing understanding of stem-like cells, albeit of more complex phenotypes, present in tumors (cancer stem cells), provides a common conceptual and research framework for basic and applied stem cell biology. In this review, we highlight current results on biomarkers, gene signatures, signaling pathways and epigenetic regulators that are common in embryonic and cancer stem cells. We discuss their role in determining the cell phenotype and finally, their potential use to design next generation biological and pharmaceutical approaches for regenerative medicine and cancer therapies.
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Weli SC, Fink T, Cetinkaya C, Prasad MS, Pennisi CP, Zachar V. Notch and hedgehog signaling cooperate to maintain self-renewal of human embryonic stem cells exposed to low oxygen concentration. Int J Stem Cells 2014; 3:129-37. [PMID: 24855550 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc.2010.3.2.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Expansion and maintenance of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in undifferentiated state is influenced by complex signals in the microenvironment, including those contingent upon oxygen availability. Responses mediated by Notch and Hedgehog (Hh) have essential role in the growth and maintenance of hESCs, therefore this study examined their effect on the self-renewal of hESCs exposed to low oxygen. METHODS AND RESULTS Using potent antagonists γ-secretase inhibitor and cyclopamine, we inhibited Notch and Hh pathways, respectively, in the CLS1 hESC line expanded continuously in a hypoxic atmosphere of 5% oxygen. Immunohistochemical staining and protein assays revealed loss of Oct4 and gain of stage-specific embryonic antigen 1 (SSEA1) markers in the inhibited cells. Semiquantitative real-time RT-PCR, and bromodeoxyuridine and thymidine incorporation assays demonstrated low Oct4 and Nanog mRNA expression, and decreased DNA synthesis, respectively, resulting from the block of each of the pathways. The loss increased significantly with co-inhibition of both pathways. Importantly, Notch and Hh downstream targets, including Hes1, Hey1, GIi1, and Ptc1, were surprisingly suppressed not only by the pathway-specific but also the unrelated inhibitor. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate complementary effect of Notch and Hh signaling in hypoxia enhanced maintenance of hESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon C Weli
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3B, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Trine Fink
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3B, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Cihan Cetinkaya
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3B, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mayuri S Prasad
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3B, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Cristian P Pennisi
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3B, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Vladimir Zachar
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Research, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3B, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
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Mußmann C, Hübner R, Trilck M, Rolfs A, Frech MJ. HES5 is a key mediator of Wnt-3a-induced neuronal differentiation. Stem Cells Dev 2014; 23:1328-39. [PMID: 24548083 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2013.0557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Human neural stem/progenitor cell (hNPC)-derived neuronal progeny has been suggested as a promising cell source in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the underlying mechanisms that regulate neuronal differentiation is essential for efficient cell-based therapies. Wnt and Notch signaling has been shown to be crucial in this process. However, their interactions in the process of neuronal differentiation remain elusive. By using human fetal (ReNcell VM) and iPS-derived hNPCs we demonstrate that Wnt-3a immediately induced a transient HES1 upregulation and a sustained HES5 repression that was accompanied by upregulation of the proneural gene MASH1. Conversely, overexpression of HES5 resulted in reduced MASH1 expression. Remarkably, HES5 overexpression efficiently blocked Wnt-3a as well as γ-secretase inhibitor N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-L-alanyl]-S-phenylglycine t-butyl ester (DAPT)-induced neuronal differentiation that was accompanied by a strong MASH1 downregulation thus directly linking HES5 repression/MASH1 induction to the proneurogenic effect of Wnt-3a. Stabilized β-catenin or treatment with the specific glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) inhibitor SB-216763 failed to or only partially mimicked these effects, suggesting a GSK3β- and β-catenin-independent mechanism. Further, inhibition of Wnt-3a-LDL-receptor-related protein 5/6 (LRP5/6) interactions using Dickkopf-1 (Dkk-1) failed to inhibit the modulatory effect of Wnt-3a on HES1/5 and neuronal differentiation. Taken together, these data identify HES5 as a key mediator of the Wnt-3a proneurogenic effect occurring independently of the classical Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascade thus further deciphering crosstalk mechanisms of Wnt and Notch signaling pathways regulating cell fate of hNPCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Mußmann
- Albrecht-Kossel-Institute for Neuroregeneration (AKos), University of Rostock , Rostock, Germany
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Tung JC, Paige SL, Ratner BD, Murry CE, Giachelli CM. Engineered biomaterials control differentiation and proliferation of human-embryonic-stem-cell-derived cardiomyocytes via timed Notch activation. Stem Cell Reports 2014; 2:271-81. [PMID: 24672751 PMCID: PMC3964284 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
For cell-based treatments of myocardial infarction, a better understanding of key developmental signaling pathways and more robust techniques for producing cardiomyocytes are required. Manipulation of Notch signaling has promise as it plays an important role during cardiovascular development, but previous studies presented conflicting results that Notch activation both positively and negatively regulates cardiogenesis. We developed surface- and microparticle-based Notch-signaling biomaterials that function in a time-specific activation-tunable manner, enabling precise investigation of Notch activation at specific developmental stages. Using our technologies, a biphasic effect of Notch activation on cardiac differentiation was found: early activation in undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) promotes ectodermal differentiation, activation in specified cardiovascular progenitor cells increases cardiac differentiation. Signaling also induces cardiomyocyte proliferation, and repeated doses of Notch-signaling microparticles further enhance cardiomyocyte population size. These results highlight the diverse effects of Notch activation during cardiac development and provide approaches for generating large quantities of cardiomyocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason C Tung
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Sharon L Paige
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA ; Center for Cardiovascular Biology, Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Buddy D Ratner
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Charles E Murry
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA ; Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA ; Department of Medicine/Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA ; Center for Cardiovascular Biology, Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Cecilia M Giachelli
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Banerji CRS, Miranda-Saavedra D, Severini S, Widschwendter M, Enver T, Zhou JX, Teschendorff AE. Cellular network entropy as the energy potential in Waddington's differentiation landscape. Sci Rep 2013; 3:3039. [PMID: 24154593 PMCID: PMC3807110 DOI: 10.1038/srep03039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiation is a key cellular process in normal tissue development that is significantly altered in cancer. Although molecular signatures characterising pluripotency and multipotency exist, there is, as yet, no single quantitative mark of a cellular sample's position in the global differentiation hierarchy. Here we adopt a systems view and consider the sample's network entropy, a measure of signaling pathway promiscuity, computable from a sample's genome-wide expression profile. We demonstrate that network entropy provides a quantitative, in-silico, readout of the average undifferentiated state of the profiled cells, recapitulating the known hierarchy of pluripotent, multipotent and differentiated cell types. Network entropy further exhibits dynamic changes in time course differentiation data, and in line with a sample's differentiation stage. In disease, network entropy predicts a higher level of cellular plasticity in cancer stem cell populations compared to ordinary cancer cells. Importantly, network entropy also allows identification of key differentiation pathways. Our results are consistent with the view that pluripotency is a statistical property defined at the cellular population level, correlating with intra-sample heterogeneity, and driven by the degree of signaling promiscuity in cells. In summary, network entropy provides a quantitative measure of a cell's undifferentiated state, defining its elevation in Waddington's landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R. S. Banerji
- Statistical Cancer Genomics, Paul O'Gorman Building, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematics and Physics in the Life Sciences and Experimental Biology, University College London, London WC1E6BT United Kingdom
| | - Diego Miranda-Saavedra
- Bioinformatics and Genomics Laboratory, World Premier International (WPI) Immunology Frontier Research Center (IFReC), Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Simone Severini
- Centre for Mathematics and Physics in the Life Sciences and Experimental Biology, University College London, London WC1E6BT United Kingdom
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Widschwendter
- Department of Women's Cancer, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Tariq Enver
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph X. Zhou
- Institute for Systems Biology, 401 Terry Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109-5234, USA
| | - Andrew E. Teschendorff
- Statistical Cancer Genomics, Paul O'Gorman Building, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematics and Physics in the Life Sciences and Experimental Biology, University College London, London WC1E6BT United Kingdom
- CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, 320 Yue Yang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
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15
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Notch-HES1 signaling axis controls hemato-endothelial fate decisions of human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells. Blood 2013; 122:1162-73. [PMID: 23733337 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2012-12-471649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling regulates several cellular processes including cell fate decisions and proliferation in both invertebrates and mice. However, comparatively less is known about the role of Notch during early human development. Here, we examined the function of Notch signaling during hematopoietic lineage specification from human pluripotent stem cells of both embryonic and adult fibroblast origin. Using immobilized Notch ligands and small interfering RNA to Notch receptors we have demonstrated that Notch1, but not Notch2, activation induced hairy and enhancer of split 1 (HES1) expression and generation of committed hematopoietic progenitors. Using gain- and loss-of-function approaches, this was shown to be attributed to Notch-signaling regulation through HES1, which dictated cell fate decisions from bipotent precursors either to the endothelial or hematopoietic lineages at the clonal level. Our study reveals a previously unappreciated role for the Notch pathway during early human hematopoiesis, whereby Notch signaling via HES1 represents a toggle switch of hematopoietic vs endothelial fate specification.
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Yang T, Liu LY, Ma YY, Zhang W. Notch signaling-mediated neural lineage selection facilitates intrastriatal transplantation therapy for ischemic stroke by promoting endogenous regeneration in the hippocampus. Cell Transplant 2013; 23:221-38. [PMID: 23295012 DOI: 10.3727/096368912x661355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Acquisition of highly efficient neural differentiation based on understanding of initial lineage commitment of human embryonic stem (hES) cells remains a challenge. This study describes a simple three-stage protocol to induce hES cells into neural lineage cells using a 2-week coculture with murine bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) PA6 followed by a 2-week propagation culture in PA6-conditioned medium and an additional 2-week selection culture in chemically defined neurobasal medium. This protocol generated a relatively high yield of neural lineage cells without mesodermal and endodermal lineage cell contamination. Notably, we demonstrated that PA6 coculture can significantly enhance the expression level of Notch signaling components and promote neural lineage entry of hES cell derivatives. Manipulation of Notch signaling can boost or suppress neural differentiation of hES cell derivatives, suggesting that Notch signaling may underlie the PA6-mediated neural induction. In vivo studies demonstrated that derived neural cells could improve the cognitive function of ischemic stroke rats. Intrastriatal human neural cell grafts were noted to migrate to damaged cerebral regions, enhance basic fibroblast growth factor production in the hippocampus, and restore the pyramidal neuron density and morphology in the hippocampal CA1 region, although only a small number of human donor cells were present in the hippocampus, suggesting that donor cells can boost hippocampal reconstruction by promoting the endogenous regeneration process. These findings demonstrate a pivotal role for Notch in hES cell fate determination and that manipulation of Notch signaling is therefore likely to be a key factor in taking command of hES cell lineage choice. This study suggested the potential of utilizing PA6 coculture to imitate the embryonic niche for hES cell neural induction via Notch signaling and a high application potential of BMSC-involved protocol, which can yield a whole lineage of human neural cells to promote endogenous regeneration in the hippocampus upon transplantation for potential therapy of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yang
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
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17
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Greenow K, Clarke AR. Controlling the stem cell compartment and regeneration in vivo: the role of pluripotency pathways. Physiol Rev 2012; 92:75-99. [PMID: 22298652 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00040.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the realization that embryonic stem cells are maintained in a pluripotent state through the interplay of a number of key signal transduction pathways, it is becoming increasingly clear that stemness and pluripotency are defined by the complex molecular convergence of these pathways. Perhaps this has most clearly been demonstrated by the capacity to induce pluripotency in differentiated cell types, so termed iPS cells. We are therefore building an understanding of how cells may be maintained in a pluripotent state, and how we may manipulate cells to drive them between committed and pluripotent compartments. However, it is less clear how cells normally pass in and out of the stem cell compartment under normal and diseased physiological states in vivo, and indeed, how important these pathways are in these settings. It is also clear that there is a potential "dark side" to manipulating the stem cell compartment, as deregulation of somatic stem cells is being increasingly implicated in carcinogenesis and the generation of "cancer stem cells." This review explores these relationships, with a particular focus on the role played by key molecular regulators of stemness in tissue repair, and the possibility that a better understanding of this control may open the door to novel repair strategies in vivo. The successful development of such strategies has the potential to replace or augment intervention-based strategies (cell replacement therapies), although it is clear they must be developed with a full understanding of how such approaches might also influence tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Greenow
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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18
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Alcobia I, Gomes A, Saavedra P, Laranjeiro R, Oliveira S, Parreira L, Cidadão A. Portrayal of the Notch system in embryonic stem cell-derived embryoid bodies. Cells Tissues Organs 2010; 193:239-52. [PMID: 21116107 DOI: 10.1159/000320572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We portrayed the Notch system in embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived embryoid bodies (EBs) differentiating under the standard protocols used to assess yolk sac (YS) hematopoiesis in vitro. Notch receptors and Notch ligands were detected in virtually all cells throughout EB development. Notch 1 and Notch 2, but not Notch 4, were visualized in the nucleus of EB cells, and all these receptors were also observed as patent cytoplasmic foci. Notch ligands (Delta-like 1 and 4, Jagged 1 and 2) were immunodetected mostly as cytoplasmic foci. Widespread Notch 1 activation was evident at days 2-4 of EB differentiation, the time window of hemangioblast generation in this in vitro system. EBs experienced major spatial remodeling beyond culture day 4, the time point coincident with the transition between primitive and multilineage waves of YS hematopoiesis in vitro. At day 6, where definitive YS hematopoiesis is established in EBs, these exhibit an immature densely packed cellular region (DCR) surrounded by a territory of mesodermal-like cells and an outer layer of endodermal cells. Immunolabeling of Notch receptors and ligands was usually higher in the DCR. Our results show that Notch system components are continuously and abundantly expressed in the multicellular environments arising in differentiating EBs. In such an active Notch system, receptors and ligands do not accumulate extensively at the cell surface but instead localize at cytoplasmic foci, an observation that fits current knowledge on endocytic modulation of Notch signaling. Our data thus suggest that Notch may function as a territorial modulator during early development, where it may eventually influence YS hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Alcobia
- Unidade de Biologia da Hematopoiese, Instituto de Histologia e Biologia do Desenvolvimento, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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19
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Abstract
Embryonic stem (ES) cells display heterogeneous responses upon induction of differentiation. Recent analysis has shown that Hes1 expression oscillates with a period of about 3–5 h in mouse ES cells and that this oscillating expression contributes to the heterogeneous responses: Hes1-high ES cells are prone to the mesodermal fate, while Hes1-low ES cells are prone to the neural fate. These outcomes of Hes1-high and Hes1-low ES cells are very similar to those of inactivation and activation of Notch signaling, respectively. These results suggest that Hes1 and Notch signaling lead to opposite outcomes in ES cell differentiation, although they work in the same direction in most other cell types. Here, we found that Hes1 acts as an inhibitor but not as an effector of Notch signaling in ES cell differentiation. Our results indicate that sustained Hes1 expression delays the differentiation of ES cells and promotes the preference for the mesodermal rather than the neural fate by suppression of Notch signaling.
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20
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Woo SM, Kim J, Han HW, Chae JI, Son MY, Cho S, Chung HM, Han YM, Kang YK. Notch signaling is required for maintaining stem-cell features of neuroprogenitor cells derived from human embryonic stem cells. BMC Neurosci 2009; 10:97. [PMID: 19682396 PMCID: PMC3224699 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-10-97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2008] [Accepted: 08/17/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have provided important findings about the roles of Notch signaling in neural development. Unfortunately, however, most of these studies have investigated the neural stem cells (NSCs) of mice or other laboratory animals rather than humans, mainly owing to the difficulties associated with obtaining human brain samples. It prompted us to focus on neuroectodermal spheres (NESs) which are derived from human embryonic stem cell (hESC) and densely inhabited by NSCs. We here investigated the role of Notch signaling with the hESC-derived NESs. Results From hESCs, we derived NESs, the in-vitro version of brain-derived neurospheres. NES formation was confirmed by increased levels of various NSC marker genes and the emergence of rosette structures in which neuroprogenitors are known to reside. We found that Notch signaling, which maintains stem cell characteristics of in-vivo-derived neuroprogenitors, is active in these hESC-derived NESs, similar to their in-vivo counterpart. Expression levels of Notch signaling molecules such as NICD, DLLs, JAG1, HES1 and HES5 were increased in the NESs. Inhibition of the Notch signaling by a γ-secretase inhibitor reduced rosette structures, expression levels of NSC marker genes and proliferation potential in the NESs, and, if combined with withdrawal of growth factors, triggered differentiation toward neurons. Conclusion Our results indicate that the hESC-derived NESs, which share biochemical features with brain-derived neurospheres, maintain stem cell characteristics mainly through Notch signaling, which suggests that the hESC-derived NESs could be an in-vitro model for in-vivo neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Mi Woo
- Development and Differentiation Research Center, KRIBB, 111 Gwahangno, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-806, South Korea.
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21
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Beltrami AP, Cesselli D, Beltrami CA. Pluripotency rush! Molecular cues for pluripotency, genetic reprogramming of adult stem cells, and widely multipotent adult cells. Pharmacol Ther 2009; 124:23-30. [PMID: 19545589 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2009.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2009] [Accepted: 06/02/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In the last few years, pluripotent stem cells have been the objective of intense investigation efforts. These cells are of paramount therapeutic interest, since they could be utilized: as in vitro models of disease, for pharmaceutical screening purposes, and for the regeneration of damaged organs. Over the years, pluripotent cells have been cultured from teratomas, the inner cell mass, and primordial germ cells. Accumulating informations have partially decrypted the molecular machinery responsible for the maintenance of a very primitive state, permitting the reprogramming of differentiated cells. Although the debate is still open, an extreme excitement is arising from two strictly related possibilities: pluripotent cells could be obtained from adult tissues with minimal manipulations or very rare pluripotent cells could be identified in adult tissues. This intriguing option will trigger new researches aimed both at identifying the possible biological role of pluripotent adult stem cells and at exploiting their potential clinical use. The present review article will summarize current knowledge of the molecular cues for pluripotency but also discusses whether pluripotent stem cells could be obtained from adult tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Paolo Beltrami
- Interdepartmental Center for Regenerative Medicine (CIME), Department of Pathology, University of Udine, Italy.
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22
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Yu X, Zou J, Ye Z, Hammond H, Chen G, Tokunaga A, Mali P, Li YM, Civin C, Gaiano N, Cheng L. Notch signaling activation in human embryonic stem cells is required for embryonic, but not trophoblastic, lineage commitment. Cell Stem Cell 2009; 2:461-71. [PMID: 18462696 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2008.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2007] [Revised: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 03/03/2008] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway plays important roles in cell-fate determination during embryonic development and adult life. In this study, we focus on the role of Notch signaling in governing cell-fate choices in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Using genetic and pharmacological approaches, we achieved both blockade and conditional activation of Notch signaling in several hESC lines. We report here that activation of Notch signaling is required for undifferentiated hESCs to form the progeny of all three embryonic germ layers, but not trophoblast cells. In addition, transient Notch signaling pathway activation enhanced generation of hematopoietic cells from committed hESCs. These new insights into the roles of Notch in hESC-fate determination may help to efficiently direct hESC differentiation into therapeutically relevant cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobing Yu
- Stem Cell Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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23
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Jang J, Ku SY, Kim JE, Choi K, Kim YY, Kim HS, Oh SK, Lee EJ, Cho HJ, Song YH, Lee SH, Lee SH, Suh CS, Kim SH, Moon SY, Choi YM. Notch inhibition promotes human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiac mesoderm differentiation. Stem Cells 2008; 26:2782-90. [PMID: 18757302 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.2007-1053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The roles of Notch signaling in cardiac differentiation from murine embryonic stem cells have been well documented. We investigated whether Notch signaling plays a similar role in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Although, as previously reported, blocking Notch signaling via the addition of gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) alone failed to affect hESC differentiation, we found that GSI plus reduced-volume culture medium (GSI/RVCM) accelerated mesodermal differentiation. GSI/RVCM conditions simultaneously suppressed commitment toward neuroectodermal lineages. Furthermore, sustained inhibition of Notch signaling further enhanced differentiation into cardiac mesoderm. Spontaneous beating activity was typically observed from 12 days after initiation of GSI treatment in RVCM. Moreover, hESC-derived cardiomyocytes expressed connexin 43 and possessed spontaneous calcium oscillations and cardiomyocyte beats coupled to neonatal rat cardiomyocytes when cocultured. These findings strongly suggest a distinct role for Notch signaling in the induction and specification of hESC-derived cardiac mesoderm in vitro. Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiho Jang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Chongno-ku, Seoul, Korea.
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24
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Heo JS, Lee SH, Han HJ. Regulation of DNA synthesis in mouse embryonic stem cells by transforming growth factor-alpha: involvement of the PI3-K/Akt and Notch/Wnt signaling pathways. Growth Factors 2008; 26:104-16. [PMID: 18428029 DOI: 10.1080/08977190802066655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the mechanisms by which transforming growth factor (TGF)-alpha regulates proliferation of mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells. TGF-alpha increased [3H] thymidine and BrdU incorporation in a time- (0-72 h) and dose-dependent (0-10 ng/ml) manner. TGF-alpha stimulated the phosphorylation of Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), p70S6K1 and p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). TGF-alpha also increased the protein levels of Notch, Notch intracellular domain, Hes-1 and Wnt1. However, TGF-alpha-induced DNA synthesis was blocked by inhibition of Akt, mTOR, p44/42 MAPKs and Notch. TGF-alpha increased the gene expression of c-jun, c-myc and c-fos. Moreover, TGF-alpha increased cyclin D/CDK 4 and cyclin E/CDK 2 levels, while decreasing p21cip1/waf1 and p27kip1, which were blocked by the inhibition of Akt, mTOR and Notch. In conclusion, TGF-alpha regulated DNA synthesis of mouse ES cells via PI3-K/Akt, p44/42 MAPKs and Notch/Wnt pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Sun Heo
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Biotherapy Human Resources Center (BK 21), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
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25
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Hajdu M, Luttun A, Pelacho B, Burns TC, Chase L, Gutiérrez-Pérez M, Jiang Y, Lenvik T, Vas V, Uher F, Sebestyén A, Verfaillie C. Transcriptional characterization of the notch signaling pathway in rodent multipotent adult progenitor cells. Pathol Oncol Res 2007; 13:302-10. [DOI: 10.1007/bf02940309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2007] [Accepted: 12/05/2007] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Fox V, Gokhale PJ, Walsh JR, Matin M, Jones M, Andrews PW. Cell-cell signaling through NOTCH regulates human embryonic stem cell proliferation. Stem Cells 2007; 26:715-23. [PMID: 18055449 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.2007-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Unlike pluripotent mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells, human ES cells and their malignant equivalents, embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells, require close cell-cell contact for efficient growth. Signaling through the NOTCH receptor, initiated by interaction with ligands of the DELTA/JAGGED family expressed on neighboring cells, plays a role in regulating the self-renewal of several stem cell systems. Members of the NOTCH and DELTA/JAGGED families are expressed by human EC and ES cells, and we have therefore investigated the possible role of NOTCH in the maintenance of these cells. Cleavage of both NOTCH1 and NOTCH2 to yield the intracellular domain responsible for the canonical signaling pathway of NOTCH was detected in several human EC and ES cell lines, suggesting that NOTCH signaling is active. Furthermore, the proliferation of human EC cells, as well as the expression of several downstream NOTCH target genes, was markedly reduced after small interfering RNA knockdown of NOTCH1, NOTCH2, and the canonical effector CBF-1 or after blocking NOTCH signaling with the gamma-secretase inhibitor L-685,458. The inhibitor also caused a reduction in the growth of human ES cells, although without evidence of differentiation. The results indicate that cell-cell signaling through the NOTCH system provides a critical cue for the proliferation of human EC and ES cell in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Fox
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, United Kingdom
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27
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Dreesen O, Brivanlou AH. Signaling pathways in cancer and embryonic stem cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 3:7-17. [PMID: 17873377 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-007-0004-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 279] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/1999] [Revised: 11/30/1999] [Accepted: 11/30/1999] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells have the ability to divide indefinitely and spread to different parts of the body during metastasis. Embryonic stem cells can self-renew and, through differentiation to somatic cells, provide the building blocks of the human body. Embryonic stem cells offer tremendous opportunities for regenerative medicine and serve as an excellent model system to study early human development. Many of the molecular mechanism underlying tumorigenesis in cancer and self-renewal in stem cells have been elucidated in the past decade. Here we present a systematic analysis of seven major signaling pathways implicated in both cancer and stem cells. We present on overview of the JAK/STAT, Notch, MAPK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, NF-kB, Wnt and TGF-beta pathways and analyze their activation status in the context of cancer and stem cells. We focus on their role in stem cell self-renewal and development and identify key molecules, whose aberrant expression has been associated with malignant phenotypes. We conclude by presenting a map of the signaling networks involved in cancer and embryonic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Dreesen
- Laboratory of Molecular Vertebrate Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10021-6399, USA
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28
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Cormier S, Souilhol C, Babinet C, Cohen-Tannoudji M. Voie de signalisation Notch et développement précoce des mammifères. Med Sci (Paris) 2007; 23:26-8. [PMID: 17212926 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/200723126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Cormier
- Unité de Génétique fonctionnelle de la souris, CNRS URA 2578, Institut Pasteur, 25 rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
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29
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Lensch MW, Daheron L, Schlaeger TM. Pluripotent stem cells and their niches. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 2:185-201. [PMID: 17625255 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-006-0047-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/1999] [Revised: 11/30/1999] [Accepted: 11/30/1999] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The ability of stem cells to self-renew and to replace mature cells is fundamental to ontogeny and tissue regeneration. Stem cells of the adult organism can be categorized as mono-, bi-, or multipotent, based on the number of mature cell types to which they can give rise. In contrast, pluripotent stem cells of the early embryo have the ability to form every cell type of the adult body. Permanent lines of pluripotent stem cells have been derived from preimplantation embryos (embryonic stem cells), fetal primordial germ cells (embryonic germ cells), and malignant teratocarcinomas (embryonal carcinoma cells). Cultured pluripotent stem cells can easily be manipulated genetically, and they can be matured into adult-type stem cells and terminally differentiated cell types in vitro, thereby, providing powerful model systems for the study of mammalian embryogenesis and disease processes. In addition, human embryonic stem cell lines hold great promise for the development of novel regenerative therapies. To fully utilize the potential of these cells, we must first understand the mechanisms that control pluripotent stem cell fate and function. In recent decades, the microenvironment or niche has emerged as particularly critical for stem cell regulation. In this article, we review how pluripotent stem cell signal transduction mechanisms and transcription factor circuitries integrate information provided by the microenvironment. In addition, we consider the potential existence and location of adult pluripotent stem cell niches, based on the notion that a revealing feature indicating the presence of stem cells in a given tissue is the occurrence of tumors whose characteristics reflect the normal developmental potential of the cognate stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- M William Lensch
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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