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Liang Y, Luo C, Sun L, Feng T, Yin W, Zhang Y, Mulholland MW, Zhang W, Yin Y. Reduction of specific enterocytes from loss of intestinal LGR4 improves lipid metabolism in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4393. [PMID: 38782937 PMCID: PMC11116434 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48622-5] [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: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Whether intestinal Leucine-rich repeat containing G-protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) impacts nutrition absorption and energy homeostasis remains unknown. Here, we report that deficiency of Lgr4 (Lgr4iKO) in intestinal epithelium decreased the proportion of enterocytes selective for long-chain fatty acid absorption, leading to reduction in lipid absorption and subsequent improvement in lipid and glucose metabolism. Single-cell RNA sequencing demonstrates the heterogeneity of absorptive enterocytes, with a decrease in enterocytes selective for long-chain fatty acid-absorption and an increase in enterocytes selective for carbohydrate absorption in Lgr4iKO mice. Activation of Notch signaling and concurrent inhibition of Wnt signaling are observed in the transgenes. Associated with these alterations is the substantial reduction in lipid absorption. Decrement in lipid absorption renders Lgr4iKO mice resistant to high fat diet-induced obesity relevant to wild type littermates. Our study thus suggests that targeting intestinal LGR4 is a potential strategy for the intervention of obesity and liver steatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Liang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Luo
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Sun
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Tiange Feng
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhen Yin
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Yunhua Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Michael W Mulholland
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-0346, USA
| | - Weizhen Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-0346, USA.
| | - Yue Yin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China.
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2
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Srivastava A, Rikhari D, Srivastava S. RSPO2 as Wnt signaling enabler: Important roles in cancer development and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2024; 11:788-806. [PMID: 37692504 PMCID: PMC10491879 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.01.013] [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: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
R-spondins are secretory proteins localized in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi bodies and are processed through the secretory pathway. Among the R-spondin family, RSPO2 has emanated as a novel regulator of Wnt signaling, which has now been acknowledged in numerous in vitro and in vivo studies. Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that proliferates and spreads uncontrollably due to the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic factors that constitutively activate Wnt signaling in various types of cancer. Colorectal cancer (CRC) begins when cells in the colon and rectum follow an indefinite pattern of division due to aberrant Wnt activation as one of the key hallmarks. Decades-long progress in research on R-spondins has demonstrated their oncogenic function in distinct cancer types, particularly CRC. As a critical regulator of the Wnt pathway, it modulates several phenotypes of cells, such as cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and cancer stem cell properties. Recently, RSPO mutations, gene rearrangements, fusions, copy number alterations, and altered gene expression have also been identified in a variety of cancers, including CRC. In this review, we addressed the recent updates regarding the recurrently altered R-spondins with special emphasis on the RSPO2 gene and its involvement in potentiating Wnt signaling in CRC. In addition to the compelling physiological and biological roles in cellular fate and regulation, we propose that RSPO2 would be valuable as a potential biomarker for prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic use in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211004, India
| | - Deeksha Rikhari
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211004, India
| | - Sameer Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh 211004, India
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3
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Liu D, Bae YE, Zhu J, Zhang Z, Sun Y, Deng Y, Wu C, Wu L. Splicing transcriptome-wide association study to identify splicing events for pancreatic cancer risk. Carcinogenesis 2023; 44:741-747. [PMID: 37769343 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgad069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A large proportion of the heritability of pancreatic cancer risk remains elusive, and the contribution of specific mRNA splicing events to pancreatic cancer susceptibility has not been systematically evaluated. In this study, we performed a large splicing transcriptome-wide association study (spTWAS) using three modeling strategies (Enet, LASSO and MCP) to develop alternative splicing genetic prediction models for identifying novel susceptibility loci and splicing introns for pancreatic cancer risk by assessing 8275 pancreatic cancer cases and 6723 controls of European ancestry. Data from 305 subjects of whom the majority are of European descent in the Genotype-Tissue Expression Project (GTEx) were used and both cis-acting and promoter-enhancer interaction regions were considered to build these models. We identified nine splicing events of seven genes (ABO, UQCRC1, STARD3, ETAA1, CELA3B, LGR4 and SFT2D1) that showed an association of genetically predicted expression with pancreatic cancer risk at a false discovery rate ≤0.05. Of these genes, UQCRC1 and LGR4 have not yet been reported to be associated with pancreatic cancer risk. Fine-mapping analyses supported likely causal associations corresponding to six splicing events of three genes (P4HTM, ABO and PGAP3). Our study identified novel genes and splicing events associated with pancreatic cancer risk, which can improve our understanding of the etiology of this deadly malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P.R. China
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Population Sciences in the Pacific Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Ye Eun Bae
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA
| | - Jingjing Zhu
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Population Sciences in the Pacific Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Zichen Zhang
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA
| | - Yanfa Sun
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Population Sciences in the Pacific Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
- College of Life Science, Longyan University, Longyan, Fujian 364012, P.R. China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for the Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Biotechnology, Longyan, Fujian 364012, P.R. China
- Fujian Provincial Universities Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology (Longyan University), Longyan, Fujian 364012, P.R. China
| | - Youping Deng
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Chong Wu
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lang Wu
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Population Sciences in the Pacific Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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4
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Chen S, Xiao Z, Jiang W. SOX2 suppresses osteoblast differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells through activating the transcription of LGR4. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2023; 59:1-9. [PMID: 36547788 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-022-00740-4] [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: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Osteogenic differentiation is a crucial process of new bone formation. This study aimed to explore the roles and mechanism of SRY-Box Transcription Factor 2 (SOX2) on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) was used to induce the osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. The expression of SOX2 was determined by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR) at different time points after induction. The SOX2 overexpression plasmids were constructed and transfected into MC3T3-E1 cells. Osteogenic differentiation was evaluated by Alizarin Red S staining and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay. The expressions of osteogenic differentiation markers including runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteopontin (OPN), and osteocalcin (OCN) were detected by western blot assay. Luciferase reporter and CHIP assays were used to confirm that SOX2 regulated the transcriptional activation of leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4). We found that SOX2 was down-regulated upon BMP2-induced osteogenic differentiation in MC3T3-E1 cells. Overexpression of SOX2 effectively inhibited osteogenic differentiation with decreased ALP activity, calcification, and osteogenic differentiation markers' expression including Runx2, OPN, and OCN. LGR4 was identified as a target of SOX2, and the inhibitory effect of SOX2 on osteogenic differentiation was reversed by knockdown of LGR4. The present study confirmed that SOX2 suppressed osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells through targeting LGR4, which possesses a therapeutic strategy for bone formation and generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunyu Chen
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, No. 88, Jiaotong Road, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, 350004, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Orthopedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital, Cangshan District, No. 47, Shangteng Road, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, 350007, People's Republic of China. .,Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for First Aid and Rehabilitation in Orthopaedic Trauma (2020Y2014), Fuzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhanhao Xiao
- Department of Orthopedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital, Cangshan District, No. 47, Shangteng Road, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, 350007, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjin Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital, Cangshan District, No. 47, Shangteng Road, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, 350007, People's Republic of China
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Genome-wide run of homozygosity analysis reveals candidate genomic regions associated with environmental adaptations of Tibetan native chickens. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:91. [PMID: 35100979 PMCID: PMC8805376 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-08280-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Tibet, the two most important breeds are Tibetan chicken and Lhasa white chicken, and the duo exhibit specific adaptations to the high altitude thereby supplying proteins for humans living in the plateau. These breeds are partly included in the conservation plans because they represent important chicken genetic resources. However, the genetic diversity of these chickens is rarely investigated. Based on whole-genome sequencing data of 113 chickens from 4 populations of Tibetan chicken including Shigatse (SH), Nyemo (NM), Dagze (DZ) and Nyingchi (LZ), as well as Lhasa white (LW) chicken breed, we investigated the genetic diversity of these chicken breeds by genetic differentiation, run of homozygosity (ROH), genomic inbreeding and selection signature analyses. Results Our results revealed high genetic diversity across the five chicken populations. The linkage disequilibrium decay was highest in LZ, while subtle genetic differentiation was found between LZ and other populations (Fst ranging from 0.05 to 0.10). Furthermore, the highest ROH-based inbreeding estimate (FROH) of 0.11 was observed in LZ. In other populations, the FROH ranged from 0.04 to 0.06. In total, 74, 111, 62, 42 and 54 ROH islands containing SNPs ranked top 1% for concurrency were identified in SH, NM, DZ, LZ and LW, respectively. Genes common to the ROH islands in the five populations included BDNF, CCDC34, LGR4, LIN7C, GLS, LOC101747789, MYO1B, STAT1 and STAT4. This suggested their essential roles in adaptation of the chickens. We also identified a common candidate genomic region harboring AMY2A, NTNG1 and VAV3 genes in all populations. These genes had been implicated in digestion, neurite growth and high-altitude adaptation. Conclusions High genetic diversity is observed in Tibetan native chickens. Inbreeding is more intense in the Nyingchi population which is also genetically distant from other chicken populations. Candidate genes in ROH islands are likely to be the drivers of adaptation to high altitude exhibited by the five Tibetan native chicken populations. Our findings contribute to the understanding of genetic diversity offer valuable insights for the genetic mechanism of adaptation, and provide veritable tools that can help in the design and implementation of breeding and conservation strategies for Tibetan native chickens. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-08280-z.
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Boby N, Cao X, Ransom A, Pace BT, Mabee C, Shroyer MN, Das A, Didier PJ, Srivastav SK, Porter E, Sha Q, Pahar B. Identification, Characterization, and Transcriptional Reprogramming of Epithelial Stem Cells and Intestinal Enteroids in Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infected Rhesus Macaques. Front Immunol 2021; 12:769990. [PMID: 34887863 PMCID: PMC8650114 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.769990] [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: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cell injury and impaired epithelial regeneration are considered key features in HIV pathogenesis and contribute to HIV-induced generalized immune activation. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the disrupted epithelial regeneration might provide an alternative approach for the treatment of HIV-mediated enteropathy and immune activation. We have observed a significant increased presence of α defensin5+ (HD5) Paneth cells and proliferating Ki67+ epithelial cells as well as decreased expression of E-cadherin expression in epithelial cells during SIV infection. SIV infection did not significantly influence the frequency of LGR5+ stem cells, but the frequency of HD5+ cells was significantly higher compared to uninfected controls in jejunum. Our global transcriptomics analysis of enteroids provided novel information about highly significant changes in several important pathways like metabolic, TCA cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, where the majority of the differentially expressed genes were downregulated in enteroids grown from chronically SIV-infected macaques compared to the SIV-uninfected controls. Despite the lack of significant reduction in LGR5+ stem cell population, the dysregulation of several intestinal stem cell niche factors including Notch, mTOR, AMPK and Wnt pathways as well as persistence of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and loss of epithelial barrier function in enteroids further supports that SIV infection impacts on epithelial cell proliferation and intestinal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nongthombam Boby
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Xuewei Cao
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI, United States
| | - Alyssa Ransom
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Barcley T Pace
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Christopher Mabee
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Monica N Shroyer
- Division of Veterinary Medicine, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Arpita Das
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Peter J Didier
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Sudesh K Srivastav
- Department of Biostatistics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Edith Porter
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Qiuying Sha
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI, United States
| | - Bapi Pahar
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
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Wang Y, Wang H, Guo J, Gao J, Wang M, Xia M, Wen Y, Su P, Yang M, Liu M, Shi L, Cheng T, Zhou W, Zhou J. LGR4, Not LGR5, Enhances hPSC Hematopoiesis by Facilitating Mesoderm Induction via TGF-Beta Signaling Activation. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107600. [PMID: 32375050 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Attempts to generate functional blood cells from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) remain largely unsuccessful, mainly due to the lack of understanding of the regulatory network of human hematopoiesis. In this study, we identified leucine-rich-repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) as an essential regulator of early hematopoietic differentiation of hPSCs. The deletion of LGR4 severely impairs mesoderm development, thereby limiting hematopoietic differentiation both in vitro and in vivo. In contrast, LGR5 is dispensable for hPSC hematopoiesis. The four R-spondin proteins show differential activities and dependencies on LGR4 in hematopoietic differentiation. The deletion of LGR4 almost entirely abolishes the enhancement induced by R-spondin1 and R-spondin3, but not R-spondin2. In addition, ZNRF3 is required for the response of R-spondin1-R-spondin3. At the mechanistic level, LGR4 regulates transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling to control hematopoietic differentiation. Together, our results reveal vital roles of LGR4 in hematopoietic development and uncover distinct functions and underlying mechanisms for R-spondins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Hongtao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Jiaojiao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning Commission; Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Mengge Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Meijuan Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Yuqi Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Pei Su
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Ming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Mingyao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Lihong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Tao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Wen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, National Health and Family Planning Commission; Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China.
| | - Jiaxi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China; Center for Stem Cell Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300020, China.
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8
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The Role of LGR4 (GPR48) in Normal and Cancer Processes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094690. [PMID: 33946652 PMCID: PMC8125670 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leucine-rich repeats containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) is a receptor that belongs to the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors that can be activated by R-spondins (RSPOs), Norrin, circLGR4, and the ligand of the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B (RANKL) ligands to regulate signaling pathways in normal and pathological processes. LGR4 is widely expressed in different tissues where it has multiple functions such as tissue development and maintenance. LGR4 mainly acts through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to regulate proliferation, survival, and differentiation. In cancer, LGR4 participates in tumor progression, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, recent evidence reveals that LGR4 is essential for the regulation of the cancer stem cell population by controlling self-renewal and regulating stem cell properties. This review summarizes the function of LGR4 and its ligands in normal and malignant processes.
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9
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Hariharan A, Weir N, Robertson C, He L, Betsholtz C, Longden TA. The Ion Channel and GPCR Toolkit of Brain Capillary Pericytes. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:601324. [PMID: 33390906 PMCID: PMC7775489 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.601324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain pericytes reside on the abluminal surface of capillaries, and their processes cover ~90% of the length of the capillary bed. These cells were first described almost 150 years ago (Eberth, 1871; Rouget, 1873) and have been the subject of intense experimental scrutiny in recent years, but their physiological roles remain uncertain and little is known of the complement of signaling elements that they employ to carry out their functions. In this review, we synthesize functional data with single-cell RNAseq screens to explore the ion channel and G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) toolkit of mesh and thin-strand pericytes of the brain, with the aim of providing a framework for deeper explorations of the molecular mechanisms that govern pericyte physiology. We argue that their complement of channels and receptors ideally positions capillary pericytes to play a central role in adapting blood flow to meet the challenge of satisfying neuronal energy requirements from deep within the capillary bed, by enabling dynamic regulation of their membrane potential to influence the electrical output of the cell. In particular, we outline how genetic and functional evidence suggest an important role for Gs-coupled GPCRs and ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels in this context. We put forth a predictive model for long-range hyperpolarizing electrical signaling from pericytes to upstream arterioles, and detail the TRP and Ca2+ channels and Gq, Gi/o, and G12/13 signaling processes that counterbalance this. We underscore critical questions that need to be addressed to further advance our understanding of the signaling topology of capillary pericytes, and how this contributes to their physiological roles and their dysfunction in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Hariharan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nick Weir
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Colin Robertson
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Liqun He
- Rudbeck Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Christer Betsholtz
- Rudbeck Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medicine Huddinge (MedH), Karolinska Institutet & Integrated Cardio Metabolic Centre, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Thomas A Longden
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Tang Y, Jiang Y, Qing C, Wang J, Zeng Z. Systematic construction and validation of an epithelial-mesenchymal transition risk model to predict prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 13:794-812. [PMID: 33340396 PMCID: PMC7835007 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been shown to be linked to a poor prognosis, particularly in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer. Nevertheless, little is known regarding the existence of EMT-related gene signatures and their prognostic values in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). In the current study, we systematically profiled the mRNA expression data of patients with LUAD in The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases using a total of 1,184 EMT-related genes. The prognostic values of the EMT-related genes used to develop risk score models for overall survival were determined using LASSO and Cox regression analyses. A prognostic signature that consisted of nine unique EMT-related genes was generated using a training set. A nomogram, incorporating this EMT-related gene signature and clinical features of patients with LUAD, was constructed for potential clinical use. Calibration plots, decision-making curves, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that this model had a good ability to predict the survival of patients with LUAD. The EMT-associated gene signature and prognostic nomogram established in this study were reliable in predicting the survival of patients with LUAD. Thus, we first identified a novel EMT-related gene signature and developed a nomogram for predicting the prognosis of patients with LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunliang Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yanxia Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Cheng Qing
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhenguo Zeng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
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11
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Liu S, Gao Y, Zhang L, Yin Y, Zhang W. Rspo1/Rspo3-LGR4 signaling inhibits hepatic cholesterol synthesis through the AMPKα-SREBP2 pathway. FASEB J 2020; 34:14946-14959. [PMID: 32926477 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001234r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
R-spondins (Rspos) are endogenous ligands of leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4). Rspos-LGR4 signaling plays important roles in embryogenesis, gastrointestinal homeostasis, and food intake. Here, we investigated the impacts of Rspos-LGR4 on hepatic cholesterol synthesis. Rspo1/3 and Lgr4 knockdown mice were used to investigate the impacts of Rspo1/3-LGR4 on hepatic cholesterol synthesis. AMPKα agonist, antagonist, and shRNA were used to explore the downstream targets of Rspos-LGR4 signaling. In our study, we reported that LGR4, Rspo1, and Rspo3 were highly expressed in hepatocytes and their expressions were sensitive to energy states. Rspo1 and Rspo3 reversed OA-induced cholesterol synthesis, accompanying with increased the phosphorylation of AMPKα Thr172, reduced SREBP2 nuclear translocation, and Srebf2 mRNA expression. Conversely, hepatic LGR4 knockdown increased hepatic cholesterol synthesis and decreased the phosphorylation of AMPKα both in vitro and in vivo. Activation or inhibition of AMPKα significantly abolished the effects of LGR4 deficiency or Rspos, respectively, on cholesterol synthesis. Knockdown of AMPKα1 or/and AMPKα2 repressed Rspos-induced inhibition on cholesterol synthesis. Our study indicates that Rspo1/Rspo3-LGR4 signaling in hepatocytes suppresses cholesterol synthesis via the AMPKα-SREBP2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiying Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Liping Zhang
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yue Yin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Weizhen Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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12
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Zhang L, Song Y, Ling Z, Li Y, Ren X, Yang J, Wang Z, Xia J, Zhang W, Cheng B. R-spondin 2-LGR4 system regulates growth, migration and invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stem-like properties of tongue squamous cell carcinoma via Wnt/β-catenin signaling. EBioMedicine 2019; 44:275-288. [PMID: 31097406 PMCID: PMC6603804 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.03.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background R-spondins (Rspo) and leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptors (LGR) play important roles in development, stem cells survival, and tumorigenicity by activating Wnt signaling pathway. Whether R-spondins-LGR signaling affects the progression of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) remain unknown. This study aims to uncover the role of R-spodin2/LGR4 in tongue SCC (TSCC). Methods The expression of Rspo2 in TSCC specimens and its correlation with TSCC clinical outcome were evaluated. Levels of Rspo2 or LGR4 were altered by pharmacological and genetic approaches, and the effects on TSCC progression were assessed. Findings Aberrantly high levels of Rspo2 were detected in TSCC specimens. Its levels were closely related with lymph node metastasis, clinical stage and survival rate in patients with tongue SCC. Exogenous Rspo2 or overexpression of Rspo2 promoted growth, migration and invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stem-like properties in SCC both in vivo and in vitro. Silence of Rspo2 abolished these phenotypes. LGR4 was functionally upregulated by Rspo2 in TSCC. Overexpression of Rspo2 increased, whereas Rspo2 silencing decreased the expression of LGR4, leading to subsequent phosphorylation of LRP6 and nuclear translocation of β-catenin in TSCC cell lines. This nuclear translocation of β-catenin was associated with a significant alteration in TCF-1, a downstream nuclear transcription factor of β-catenin, as well as its target genes: CD44, CyclinD1 and c-Myc. Interpretation Rspo2-LGR4 system regulates growth, migration and invasion, EMT and stem-like properties of TSCC via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Rspo2 and LGR4 are aberrantly expressed in TSCC. Rspo2-LGR4 up-regulates growth, migration and invasion, EMT and stem-like properties of TSCC. Rspo2-LGR4 regulates TSCC progression via Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Zhang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yan Song
- First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zihang Ling
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xianyue Ren
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Juan Xia
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Weizhen Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Bin Cheng
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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13
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Li Z, Liu S, Lou J, Mulholland M, Zhang W. LGR4 protects hepatocytes from injury in mouse. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2019; 316:G123-G131. [PMID: 30406697 PMCID: PMC6383381 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00056.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Leucine-rich repeat G protein-coupled receptors (LGRs) and their endogenous ligands R-spondin1-4 (Rspo) are critical in embryonic development and in maintenance of stem cells. The functions of the Rspo-LGR system in differentiated cells remain uncharacterized. In this study, the expression profiles of LGRs and Rspos were characterized in mature hepatocytes. A liver-specific knockout of LGR4 in mouse was generated and used to study hepatic ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury (HIRI) as well as lipopolysaccharide/ D- galactosamine (LPS/D-Gal)-induced liver injury. We have demonstrated that, in adult liver, LGR4 is expressed in hepatocytes and responds to Rspo1 with internalization. Rspo1 is responsive to various nutritional states and to mTOR signaling. Activation of LGR4 by Rspo1 significantly reduced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-induced cell death, and levels of NF-κB-p65 and caspase-3 in cultured hepatocytes. Knockdown of hepatic LGR4 rendered hepatocytes more vulnerable to TNFα-induced damage in cultured primary cells and in the setting of HIRI and LPS/D-Gal-induced liver injury. Rspo1 potentiated both basal and Wnt3a-induced stabilization of β-catenin. Disruption of β-catenin signaling reversed the protective effects of Rspo1 on TNFα-induced hepatocyte toxicity. LGR4 knockdown increased nuclear translocation of NF-κB-p65 in response to acute injury. Overexpression of IKKβ attenuated the protective effects of Rspo1 on TNFα-induced cell death. In conclusion, the Rspo1-LGR4 system represents a novel pathway for cytoprotection and modulation of stress-induced tissue damage. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Functional LGR4 is present in mature hepatocytes. R-spodin1 protects hepatocytes from tumor necrosis factor-α-induced cell death. Liver-specific knockdown of LGR4 renders liver more susceptible to acute injury. LGR4 protects hepatocytes from injury by inhibition of NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziru Li
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Shiying Liu
- 2Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jianing Lou
- 3Department of Stomatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Michael Mulholland
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Weizhen Zhang
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan,2Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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14
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Rauner G, Kudinov T, Gilad S, Hornung G, Barash I. High Expression of CD200 and CD200R1 Distinguishes Stem and Progenitor Cell Populations within Mammary Repopulating Units. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 11:288-302. [PMID: 29937142 PMCID: PMC6067058 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Aiming to unravel the top of the mammary epithelial cell hierarchy, a subset of the CD49fhighCD24med mammary repopulating units (MRUs) was identified by flow cytometry, expressing high levels of CD200 and its receptor CD200R1. These MRUCD200/CD200R1 repopulated a larger area of de-epithelized mammary fat pads than the rest of the MRUs, termed MRUnot CD200/CD200R1. MRUCD200/CD200R1 maintained a much lower number of divergently defined, highly expressed genes and pathways that support better cell growth, development, differentiation, and progenitor activity than their MRUnot CD200/CD200R1 counterparts. A defined profile of hierarchically associated genes supporting a single-lineage hypothesis was confirmed by in vitro mammosphere analysis that assembled 114 genes with decreased expression from MRUCD200/CD200R1 via MRUnot CD200/CD200R1 toward CD200+CD200R1- and CD200R1+CD200- cells. About 40% of these genes were shared by a previously published database of upregulated genes in mammary/breast stem cells and may represent the core genes involved in mammary stemness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gat Rauner
- Institute of Animal Science, ARO, The Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan 50250, Israel; The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 7610001, Israel
| | - Tania Kudinov
- Institute of Animal Science, ARO, The Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan 50250, Israel; The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 7610001, Israel
| | - Shlomit Gilad
- The Nancy & Stephen Grand Israel National Center for Personalized Medicine, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Gil Hornung
- The Nancy & Stephen Grand Israel National Center for Personalized Medicine, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Itamar Barash
- Institute of Animal Science, ARO, The Volcani Center, Bet-Dagan 50250, Israel.
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15
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Zhou M, Guo S, Yuan L, Zhang Y, Zhang M, Chen H, Lu M, Yang J, Ma J. Blockade of LGR4 inhibits proliferation and odonto/osteogenic differentiation of stem cells from apical papillae. J Mol Histol 2017; 48:389-401. [PMID: 28986711 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-017-9737-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
During tooth root development, stem cells from apical papillae (SCAPs) are indispensable, and their abilities of proliferation, migration and odontoblast differentiation are linked to root formation. Leucine-rich repeat-containing GPCR 4 (LGR4) modulates the biological processes of proliferation and differentiation in multiple stem cells. In this study, we showed that LGR4 is expressed in all odontoblast cell lineage cells and Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) during the mouse root formation in vivo. In vitro we determined that LGR4 is involved in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway regulating proliferation and odonto/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs. Quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) confirmed that LGR4 is expressed during odontogenic differentiation of SCAPs. CCK8 assays and in vitro scratch tests, together with cell cycle flow cytometric analysis, demonstrated that downregulation of LGR4 inhibited SCAPs proliferation, delayed migration and arrested cell cycle progression at the S and G2/M phases. ALP staining revealed that blockade of LGR4 decreased ALP activity. QRT-PCR and Western blot analysis demonstrated that LGR4 silencing reduced the expression of odonto/osteogenic markers (RUNX2, OSX, OPN, OCN and DSPP). Further Western blot and immunofluorescence studies clarified that inhibition of LGR4 disrupted β-catenin stabilization. Taken together, downregulation of LGR4 gene expression inhibited SCAPs proliferation, migration and odonto/osteogenic differentiation by blocking the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. These results indicate that LGR4 might play a vital role in SCAPs proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Xuzhou Stomatological Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Shuyu Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Lichan Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Mengnan Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Huimin Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Mengting Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Jianrong Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
| | - Junqing Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 136 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
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16
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An X, Liu X, Zhang L, Liu J, Zhao X, Chen K, Ma H, Li G, Cao B, Song Y. MiR-449a regulates caprine endometrial stromal cell apoptosis and endometrial receptivity. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12248. [PMID: 28947781 PMCID: PMC5612931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12451-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, an RT-qPCR analysis showed that the expression levels of miR-449a in the pre-receptive endometrium were lower compared to the receptive endometrium, which is consistent with previous sequencing data (previous investigations). To detect the role of miR-449a in endometrial receptivity, we transfected caprine endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) cultured in vitro with miR-449a mimics. The results revealed that miR-449a decreased the mRNA and protein levels of LGR4 by targeting its 3′-untranslated region. The miR-449a mimics significantly reduced the G1 cell population from 52.56% (mimic NC) to 42.19% with a concordant increase in the G2 and S cell populations from 47.44% (mimic NC) to 57.81%, suggesting that miR-449a caused ESC cell cycle arrest. In addition, the number of apoptotic cells was significantly higher in ESCs transfected with miR-449a mimics (P < 0.05) than in ESCs transfected with mimic NC. In vivo, rich pinopodes were observed on the endometrial surface in the miR-449a agomir group compared with the miR-449a antagomir group. The results of hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that endometrial thickness was significantly increased in the miR-449a agomir group compared with the miR-449a antagomir group. These results suggest that miR-449a could enhance endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopeng An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Xiaorui Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Junze Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Xinyan Zhao
- Northwest A&F University of Hospital, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Kaiwen Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Haidong Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Guang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Binyun Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China.
| | - Yuxuan Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China.
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17
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Schindler AJ, Watanabe A, Howell SB. LGR5 and LGR6 in stem cell biology and ovarian cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 9:1346-1355. [PMID: 29416699 PMCID: PMC5787443 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays a fundamental role in patterning of the embryo and maintenance of stem cells in numerous epithelia. Epithelial stem cells are closeted in niches created by surrounding differentiated cells that express secreted Wnt and R-spondin proteins that influence proliferation rate and fate determination of stem cell daughters. R-spondins act through the LGR receptors to enhance Wnt signaling. This close association of stem cells with more differentiated regulatory cells expressing Wnt-pathway ligands is a feature replicated in all of the epithelial stem cell systems thus far examined. How the stem cell niche operates through these short-range interactions is best understood for the crypts of the gastrointestinal epithelium and skin. Less well understood are the stem cells that function in the ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) and fallopian tube epithelium (FTE). While the cuboidal OSE appears to be made up of a single cell type, the cells of the FTE progress through a life cycle that involves differentiation into ciliated and secretory subtypes that are eventually shed into the lumen in a manner similar to the gastrointestinal epithelium. Available evidence suggests that high grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) originates most often from stem cells in the FTE and that Wnt signaling augmented by LGR6 supports tumor development and progression. This review summarizes current information on LGR5 and LGR6 in the OSE and FTE and how their niches are organized relative to that of the gastrointestinal epithelium and skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Schindler
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Arisa Watanabe
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Stephen B Howell
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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18
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Lee J, Yi S, Chang JY, Kang YE, Kim HJ, Park KC, Yang KJ, Sul HJ, Kim JO, Yi HS, Zhu X, Cheng SY, Shong M. Regeneration of thyroid follicles from primordial cells in a murine thyroidectomized model. J Transl Med 2017; 97:478-489. [PMID: 28112758 PMCID: PMC7886286 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2016.158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The functional unit of the thyroid gland, the thyroid follicle, dynamically responds to various stimuli to maintain thyroid hormone homeostasis. However, thyroid follicles in the adult human thyroid gland have a very limited regenerative capacity following partial resection of the thyroid gland. To gain insight into follicle regeneration in the adult thyroid gland, we observed the regeneration processes of murine thyroid follicles after partial resection of the lower third of the thyroid gland in 10-week-old male C57BL/6 mice. Based on sequential observation of the partially resected thyroid lobe, we found primitive follicles forming in the area corresponding to the central zone of the intact lateral thyroid lobe. The primitive thyroid follicles were multiciliated and had coarsely vacuolated cytoplasm and large vesicular nuclei. Consistently, these primitive follicular cells did not express the differentiation markers paired box gene-8 and thyroid transcription factor-1 (clone SPT24), but were positive for forkhead box protein A2 and leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 4/GPR48. Follicles newly generated from the primitive follicles had clear or vacuolar cytoplasm with dense, darkly stained nuclei. At day 21 after partial thyroidectomy, the tall cuboidal follicular epithelial cells had clear or vacuolar cytoplasm, and the intraluminal colloid displayed pale staining. Smaller activated follicles were found in the central zone of the lateral lobe, whereas larger mature follicles were located in the peripheral zone. Based on these observations, we propose that the follicle regeneration process in the partially resected adult murine thyroid gland associated with the appearance of primitive follicular cells may be a platform for the budding of differentiated follicles in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junguee Lee
- Department of Pathology, Daejeon St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Shinae Yi
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Young Chang
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yea Eun Kang
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jung Kim
- Clinical Research Institute, Daejeon St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Cheol Park
- Clinical Research Institute, Daejeon St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Keum-Jin Yang
- Clinical Research Institute, Daejeon St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Joung Sul
- Department of Pathology, Daejeon St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Ok Kim
- Department of Pathology, Daejeon St Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyon-Seung Yi
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Xuguang Zhu
- Gene Regulation Section, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institut, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sheue-yann Cheng
- Gene Regulation Section, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institut, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Minho Shong
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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19
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Villasenor A, Stainier DYR. On the development of the hepatopancreatic ductal system. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2017; 66:69-80. [PMID: 28214561 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The hepatopancreatic ductal system is the collection of ducts that connect the liver and pancreas to the digestive tract. The formation of this system is necessary for the transport of exocrine secretions, for the correct assembly of the pancreatobiliary ductal system, and for the overall function of the digestive system. Studies on endoderm organ formation have significantly advanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern organ induction, organ specification and morphogenesis of the major foregut-derived organs. However, little is known about the mechanisms that control the development of the hepatopancreatic ductal system. Here, we provide a description of the different components of the system, summarize its development from the endoderm to a complex system of tubes, list the pathologies produced by anomalies in its development, as well as the molecules and signaling pathways that are known to be involved in its formation. Finally, we discuss its proposed potential as a multipotent cell reservoir and the unresolved questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alethia Villasenor
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
| | - Didier Y R Stainier
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
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Xu R, Zhang ZZ, Chen LJ, Yu HM, Guo SJ, Xu YL, Oudit GY, Zhang Y, Chang Q, Song B, Chen DR, Zhu DL, Zhong JC. Ascending aortic adventitial remodeling and fibrosis are ameliorated with Apelin-13 in rats after TAC via suppression of the miRNA-122 and LGR4-β-catenin signaling. Peptides 2016; 86:85-94. [PMID: 27773659 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Apelin has been proved to be a critical mediator of vascular function and homeostasis. Here, we investigated roles of Apelin in aortic remodeling and fibrosis in rats with transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to TAC and then randomized to daily deliver Apelin-13 (50μg/kg) or angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1) blocker Irbesartan (50mg/kg) for 4 weeks. Pressure overload resulted in myocardial hypertrophy, systolic dysfunction, aortic remodeling and adventitial fibrosis with reduced levels of Apelin in ascending aortas of rat after TAC compared with sham-operated group. These changes were associated with marked increases in levels of miRNA-122, TGFβ1, CTGF, NFAT5, LGR4, and β-catenin. More importantly, Apelin and Irbesartan treatment strikingly prevented TAC-mediated aortic remodeling and adventitial fibrosis in pressure overloaded rats by blocking AT1 receptor and miRNA-122 levels and repressing activation of the CTGF-NFAT5 and LGR4-β-catenin signaling. In cultured primary rat adventitial fibroblasts, exposure to angiotensin II (100nmolL-1) led to significant increases in cellular migration and levels of TGFβ1, CTGF, NFAT5, LGR4 and β-catenin, which were effectively reversed by pre-treatment with Apelin (100nmolL-1) and miRNA-122 inhibitor (50nmolL-1). In conclusion, Apelin counterregulated against TAC-mediated ascending aortic remodeling and angiotensin II-induced promotion of cellular migration by blocking AT1 receptor and miRNA-122 levels and preventing activation of the TGFβ1-CTGF-NFAT5 and LGR4-β-catenin signaling, ultimately contributing to attenuation of aortic adventitial fibrosis. Our data point to Apelin as an important regulator of aortic remodeling and adventitial fibrosis and a promising target for vasoprotective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zhen-Zhou Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Lai-Jiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hui-Min Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong General Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Shu-Jie Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ying-Le Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Gavin Y Oudit
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, Edmonton T6G 2S2, Canada
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qing Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Bei Song
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Dong-Rui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ding-Liang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jiu-Chang Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China.
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