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Kratsios P, Zampieri N, Carrillo R, Mizumoto K, Sweeney LB, Philippidou P. Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Motor Circuit Development. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1238242024. [PMID: 39358025 PMCID: PMC11450535 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1238-24.2024] [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: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Motor circuits represent the main output of the central nervous system and produce dynamic behaviors ranging from relatively simple rhythmic activities like swimming in fish and breathing in mammals to highly sophisticated dexterous movements in humans. Despite decades of research, the development and function of motor circuits remain poorly understood. Breakthroughs in the field recently provided new tools and tractable model systems that set the stage to discover the molecular mechanisms and circuit logic underlying motor control. Here, we describe recent advances from both vertebrate (mouse, frog) and invertebrate (nematode, fruit fly) systems on cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable motor circuits to develop and function and highlight conserved and divergent mechanisms necessary for motor circuit development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paschalis Kratsios
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Niccolò Zampieri
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Robert Carrillo
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - Kota Mizumoto
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Lora B Sweeney
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Klosterneuburg 3400, Austria
| | - Polyxeni Philippidou
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
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Jiang Y, Cai Y, Yang N, Gao S, Li Q, Pang Y, Su P. Molecular mechanisms of spinal cord injury repair across vertebrates: A comparative review. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 60:4552-4568. [PMID: 38978308 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16462] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
In humans and other adult mammals, axon regeneration is difficult in axotomized neurons. Therefore, spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event that can lead to permanent loss of locomotor and sensory functions. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms of axon regeneration in vertebrates are not very well understood, and currently, no effective treatment is available for SCI. In striking contrast to adult mammals, many nonmammalian vertebrates such as reptiles, amphibians, bony fishes and lampreys can spontaneously resume locomotion even after complete SCI. In recent years, rapid progress in the development of next-generation sequencing technologies has offered valuable information on SCI. In this review, we aimed to provide a comparison of axon regeneration process across classical model organisms, focusing on crucial genes and signalling pathways that play significant roles in the regeneration of individually identifiable descending neurons after SCI. Considering the special evolutionary location and powerful regenerative ability of lamprey and zebrafish, they will be the key model organisms for ongoing studies on spinal cord regeneration. Detailed study of SCI in these model organisms will help in the elucidation of molecular mechanisms of neuron regeneration across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Jiang
- College of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Yang Cai
- College of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Ning Yang
- College of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Si Gao
- College of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Qingwei Li
- College of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Yue Pang
- College of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Peng Su
- College of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Lamprey Research Center, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
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3
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Suber JR, Landino J. Methods for Tattooing Xenopus laevis with a Rotary Tattoo Machine. J Vis Exp 2024:10.3791/67086. [PMID: 39007614 PMCID: PMC11292787 DOI: 10.3791/67086] [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] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal models expand the scope of biomedical research, furthering our understanding of developmental, molecular, and cellular biology and enabling researchers to model human disease. Recording and tracking individual animals allows researchers to reduce the number of animals required for study and refine practices to improve animal wellbeing. Several well-documented methods exist for marking and tracking mammals, including ear punching and ear tags. However, methods for marking aquatic amphibian species are limited, with the existing resources being outdated, ineffective, or prohibitively costly. In this manuscript, we outline methods and best practices for marking Xenopus laevis with a rotary tattoo machine. Proper tattooing results in high-quality tattoos, making individuals easily distinguishable for researchers and posing minimal risk to animals' health. We also highlight the causes of poor-quality tattoos, which can result in tattoos that fade quickly and cause unnecessary harm to animals. This approach allows researchers and veterinarians to mark amphibians, enabling them to track biological replicates and transgenic lines and to keep accurate records of animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna R Suber
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College
| | - Jennifer Landino
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College;
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Gonzalez Lopez M, Huteckova B, Lavicky J, Zezula N, Rakultsev V, Fridrichova V, Tuaima H, Nottmeier C, Petersen J, Kavkova M, Zikmund T, Kaiser J, Lav R, Star H, Bryja V, Henyš P, Vořechovský M, Tucker AS, Harnos J, Buchtova M, Krivanek J. Spatiotemporal monitoring of hard tissue development reveals unknown features of tooth and bone development. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi0482. [PMID: 37531427 PMCID: PMC10396306 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi0482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Mineralized tissues, such as bones or teeth, are essential structures of all vertebrates. They enable rapid movement, protection, and food processing, in addition to providing physiological functions. Although the development, regeneration, and pathogenesis of teeth and bones have been intensely studied, there is currently no tool to accurately follow the dynamics of growth and healing of these vital tissues in space and time. Here, we present the BEE-ST (Bones and tEEth Spatio-Temporal growth monitoring) approach, which allows precise quantification of development, regeneration, remodeling, and healing in any type of calcified tissue across different species. Using mouse teeth as model the turnover rate of continuously growing incisors was quantified, and role of hard/soft diet on molar root growth was shown. Furthermore, the dynamics of bones and teeth growth in lizards, frogs, birds, and zebrafish was uncovered. This approach represents an effective, highly reproducible, and versatile tool that opens up diverse possibilities in developmental biology, bone and tooth healing, tissue engineering, and disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Gonzalez Lopez
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Huteckova
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Lavicky
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Nikodem Zezula
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vladislav Rakultsev
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vendula Fridrichova
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Haneen Tuaima
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Cita Nottmeier
- Department of Orthodontics, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Julian Petersen
- Department of Orthodontics, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Michaela Kavkova
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Zikmund
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jozef Kaiser
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Rupali Lav
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Haza Star
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Vítězslav Bryja
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Henyš
- Institute of New Technologies and Applied Informatics, Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Vořechovský
- Institute of Structural Mechanics, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Brno University of Technology, Czech Republic
| | - Abigail S. Tucker
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London, UK
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Harnos
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marcela Buchtova
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Krivanek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Carotenuto R, Pallotta MM, Tussellino M, Fogliano C. Xenopus laevis (Daudin, 1802) as a Model Organism for Bioscience: A Historic Review and Perspective. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:890. [PMID: 37372174 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
In vitro systems have been mainly promoted by authorities to sustain research by following the 3Rs principle, but continuously increasing amounts of evidence point out that in vivo experimentation is also of extreme relevance. Xenopus laevis, an anuran amphibian, is a significant model organism in the study of evolutionary developmental biology, toxicology, ethology, neurobiology, endocrinology, immunology and tumor biology; thanks to the recent development of genome editing, it has also acquired a relevant position in the field of genetics. For these reasons, X. laevis appears to be a powerful and alternative model to the zebrafish for environmental and biomedical studies. Its life cycle, as well as the possibility to obtain gametes from adults during the whole year and embryos by in vitro fertilization, allows experimental studies of several biological endpoints, such as gametogenesis, embryogenesis, larval growth, metamorphosis and, of course, the young and adult stages. Moreover, with respect to alternative invertebrate and even vertebrate animal models, the X. laevis genome displays a higher degree of similarity with that of mammals. Here, we have reviewed the main available literature on the use of X. laevis in the biosciences and, inspired by Feymann's revised view, "Plenty of room for biology at the bottom", suggest that X. laevis is a very useful model for all possible studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Carotenuto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Chiara Fogliano
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
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6
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Kalotay E, Klugmann M, Housley GD, Fröhlich D. Recessive aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase disorders: lessons learned from in vivo disease models. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1182874. [PMID: 37274208 PMCID: PMC10234152 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1182874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein synthesis is a fundamental process that underpins almost every aspect of cellular functioning. Intriguingly, despite their common function, recessive mutations in aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (ARSs), the family of enzymes that pair tRNA molecules with amino acids prior to translation on the ribosome, cause a diverse range of multi-system disorders that affect specific groups of tissues. Neurological development is impaired in most ARS-associated disorders. In addition to central nervous system defects, diseases caused by recessive mutations in cytosolic ARSs commonly affect the liver and lungs. Patients with biallelic mutations in mitochondrial ARSs often present with encephalopathies, with variable involvement of peripheral systems. Many of these disorders cause severe disability, and as understanding of their pathogenesis is currently limited, there are no effective treatments available. To address this, accurate in vivo models for most of the recessive ARS diseases are urgently needed. Here, we discuss approaches that have been taken to model recessive ARS diseases in vivo, highlighting some of the challenges that have arisen in this process, as well as key results obtained from these models. Further development and refinement of animal models is essential to facilitate a better understanding of the pathophysiology underlying recessive ARS diseases, and ultimately to enable development and testing of effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Kalotay
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthias Klugmann
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Research Beyond Borders, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Gary D. Housley
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dominik Fröhlich
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Tix L, Ernst L, Bungardt B, Talbot SR, Hilken G, Tolba RH. Establishment of the body condition score for adult female Xenopus laevis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280000. [PMID: 37099619 PMCID: PMC10132665 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The assessment of animals' health and nutritional status using a Body Condition Score (BCS) has become a common and reliable tool in lab-animal science. It enables a simple, semi-objective, and non-invasive assessment (palpation of osteal prominences and subcutaneous fat tissue) in routine examination of an animal. In mammals, the BCS classification contains 5 levels: A low score describes a poor nutritional condition (BCS 1-2). A BCS of 3 to 4 is considered optimum, whereas a high score (BCS = 5) is associated with obesity. While BCS are published for most common laboratory mammals, these assessment criteria are not directly applicable to clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis) due to their intracoelomic fat body instead of subcutaneous fat tissue. Therefore, this assessment tool is still missing for Xenopus laevis. The present study aimed to establish a species-specific BCS for clawed frogs in terms of housing refinement in lab-animal facilities. Accordingly, 62 adult female Xenopus laevis were weighed and sized. Further, the body contour was defined, classified, and assigned to BCS groups. A BCS 5 was associated with a mean body weight of 193.3 g (± 27.6 g), whereas a BCS 4 ranged at 163.1 g (±16.0 g). Animals with a BCS = 3 had an average body weight of 114.7 g (±16.7 g). A BCS = 2 was determined in 3 animals (103 g, 110 g, and 111 g). One animal had a BCS = 1 (83 g), equivalent to a humane endpoint. In conclusion, individual examination using the presented visual BCS provides a quick and easy assessment of the nutritional status and overall health of adult female Xenopus laevis. Due to their ectothermic nature and the associated special metabolic situation, it can be assumed that a BCS ≥3 is to be preferred for female Xenopus laevis. In addition, BCS assessment may indicate underlying subclinical health problems that require further diagnostic investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Tix
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Lisa Ernst
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Britta Bungardt
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Steven R. Talbot
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gero Hilken
- Central Animal Laboratory, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - René H. Tolba
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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Gipson GR, Nolan K, Kattamuri C, Kenny AP, Agricola Z, Edwards NA, Zinski J, Czepnik M, Mullins MC, Zorn AM, Thompson TB. Formation and characterization of BMP2/GDF5 and BMP4/GDF5 heterodimers. BMC Biol 2023; 21:16. [PMID: 36726183 PMCID: PMC9893541 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01522-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proteins of the TGFβ family, which are largely studied as homodimers, are also known to form heterodimers with biological activity distinct from their component homodimers. For instance, heterodimers of bone morphogenetic proteins, including BMP2/BMP7, BMP2/BMP6, and BMP9/BMP10, among others, have illustrated the importance of these heterodimeric proteins within the context of TGFβ signaling. RESULTS In this study, we have determined that mature GDF5 can be combined with mature BMP2 or BMP4 to form BMP2/GDF5 and BMP4/GDF5 heterodimer. Intriguingly, this combination of a BMP2 or BMP4 monomer, which exhibit high affinity to heparan sulfate characteristic to the BMP class, with a GDF5 monomer with low heparan sulfate affinity produces a heterodimer with an intermediate affinity. Using heparin affinity chromatography to purify the heterodimeric proteins, we then determined that both the BMP2/GDF5 and BMP4/GDF5 heterodimers consistently signaled potently across an array of cellular and in vivo systems, while the activities of their homodimeric counterparts were more context dependent. These differences were likely driven by an increase in the combined affinities for the type 1 receptors, Alk3 and Alk6. Furthermore, the X-ray crystal structure of BMP2/GDF5 heterodimer was determined, highlighting the formation of two asymmetric type 1 receptor binding sites that are both unique relative to the homodimers. CONCLUSIONS Ultimately, this method of heterodimer production yielded a signaling molecule with unique properties relative to the homodimeric ligands, including high affinity to multiple type 1 and moderate heparan binding affinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory R Gipson
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kristof Nolan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Chandramohan Kattamuri
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Alan P Kenny
- Perinatal Institute, Divisions of Developmental Biology and Neonatology & Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Zachary Agricola
- Perinatal Institute, Divisions of Developmental Biology and Neonatology & Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Nicole A Edwards
- Perinatal Institute, Divisions of Developmental Biology and Neonatology & Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joseph Zinski
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Magdalena Czepnik
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Mary C Mullins
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aaron M Zorn
- Perinatal Institute, Divisions of Developmental Biology and Neonatology & Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Thomas B Thompson
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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Shan Z, Li S, Yu C, Bai S, Zhang J, Tang Y, Wang Y, Irwin DM, Li J, Wang Z. Embryonic and skeletal development of the albino African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis). J Anat 2023; 242:1051-1066. [PMID: 36708289 PMCID: PMC10184547 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The normal stages of embryonic development for wild-type Xenopus laevis were established by Nieuwkoop and Faber in 1956, a milestone in the history of understanding embryonic development. However, this work lacked photographic images and staining for skeleton structures from the corresponding stages. Here, we provide high-quality images of embryonic morphology and skeleton development to facilitate studies on amphibian development. On the basis of the classical work, we selected the albino mutant of X. laevis as the observation material to restudy embryonic development in this species. The lower level of pigmentation makes it easier to interpret histochemical experiments. At 23°C, albino embryos develop at the same rate as wild-type embryos, which can be divided into 66 stages as they develop into adults in about 58 days. We described the complete embryonic development system for X. laevis, supplemented with pictures of limb and skeleton development that are missing from previous studies, and summarized the characteristics and laws of limb and skeleton development. Our study should aid research into the development of X. laevis and the evolution of amphibians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Shan
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chenghua Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shibin Bai
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Junpeng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yining Tang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yutong Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - David M Irwin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
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10
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Li T, Zou Y, Liu S, Yang Y, Zhang Z, Zhao Y. Monitoring NAD(H) and NADP(H) dynamics during organismal development with genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors. CELL REGENERATION 2022; 11:5. [PMID: 35103852 PMCID: PMC8807777 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-021-00105-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cell metabolism plays vital roles in organismal development, but it has been much less studied than transcriptional and epigenetic control of developmental programs. The difficulty might be largely attributed to the lack of in situ metabolite assays. Genetically encoded fluorescent sensors are powerful tools for noninvasive metabolic monitoring in living cells and in vivo by highly spatiotemporal visualization. Among all living organisms, the NAD(H) and NADP(H) pools are essential for maintaining redox homeostasis and for modulating cellular metabolism. Here, we introduce NAD(H) and NADP(H) biosensors, present example assays in developing organisms, and describe promising prospects for how sensors contribute to developmental biology research.
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Wang X, Xie Y, Hu W, Wei Z, Wei X, Yuan H, Yao H, Dunxue C. Transcriptome characterization and SSR discovery in the giant spiny frog Quasipaa spinosa. Gene 2022; 842:146793. [PMID: 35952842 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The giant spiny frog Quasipaa spinosa (Amphibia: Ranidae) is a large unique frog species found mainly in southern China with a low amount of fat and high protein, and it has become one of the most important aquaculture animal species in China. To better understand its genetic background and screen potential molecular markers for artificial breeding and species conservation, we constructed an expression profile of Q. spinosa with high-throughput RNA sequencing and acquired potential SSR markers. Approximately 81.7 Gb of data and 93,887 unigenes were generated. The transcriptome contains 2085 (80.7 %) complete BUSCOs, suggesting that our assembly methods were effective and accurate.These unigenes were functionally classified using 7 functional databases, yielding 17,482 Pfam-, 12,752 Sting-, 17,526 KEGG-, 24,341 Swiss-Prot-, 28,604 Nr-, 16,287 GO- and 12,752 COG-annotated unigenes. Among several amphibian species, Q. spinosa unigenes had the highest number of hits to Xenopus tropicalis (35.25 %), followed by Xenopus laevis (12.68 %). 1417 unigenes were assigned to the immune system. In addition, a total of 33,019 candidate SSR markers were identified from the constructed library. Further tests with 20 loci and 118 large-scale breeding specimens gathered from four culture farms in China showed that 15 (75 %) loci were polymorphic, with the number of alleles per locus varying from 3 to 9 (mean of 4.3). The PIC values for the SSR markers ranged from 0.19 to 0.82, with an average value of 0.43, indicating moderate polymorphism in Q. spinosa. The transcriptomic profile and SSR repertoire obtained in the present study will facilitate population genetic studies and the selective breeding of amphibian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Wang
- College of Animal Science/Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Plateau and Mountain Animals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Featured Aquatic Resources Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yongguang Xie
- College of Animal Science/Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Plateau and Mountain Animals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Wei Hu
- School of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China
| | - Zhaoyu Wei
- College of Animal Science/Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Plateau and Mountain Animals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiuying Wei
- College of Animal Science/Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Plateau and Mountain Animals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Hong Yuan
- College of Animal Science/Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Plateau and Mountain Animals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Hongyan Yao
- College of Animal Science/Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Plateau and Mountain Animals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chen Dunxue
- College of Animal Science/Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Plateau and Mountain Animals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, China.
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12
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Bolkhovitinov L, Weselman BT, Shaw GA, Dong C, Giribhattanavar J, Saha MS. Tissue Rotation of the Xenopus Anterior-Posterior Neural Axis Reveals Profound but Transient Plasticity at the Mid-Gastrula Stage. J Dev Biol 2022; 10:38. [PMID: 36135371 PMCID: PMC9503425 DOI: 10.3390/jdb10030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The establishment of anterior-posterior (AP) regional identity is an essential step in the appropriate development of the vertebrate central nervous system. An important aspect of AP neural axis formation is the inherent plasticity that allows developing cells to respond to and recover from the various perturbations that embryos continually face during the course of development. While the mechanisms governing the regionalization of the nervous system have been extensively studied, relatively less is known about the nature and limits of early neural plasticity of the anterior-posterior neural axis. This study aims to characterize the degree of neural axis plasticity in Xenopus laevis by investigating the response of embryos to a 180-degree rotation of their AP neural axis during gastrula stages by assessing the expression of regional marker genes using in situ hybridization. Our results reveal the presence of a narrow window of time between the mid- and late gastrula stage, during which embryos are able undergo significant recovery following a 180-degree rotation of their neural axis and eventually express appropriate regional marker genes including Otx, Engrailed, and Krox. By the late gastrula stage, embryos show misregulation of regional marker genes following neural axis rotation, suggesting that this profound axial plasticity is a transient phenomenon that is lost by late gastrula stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyuba Bolkhovitinov
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Bryan T. Weselman
- School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Gladys A. Shaw
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Chen Dong
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | | | - Margaret S. Saha
- Department of Biology, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
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13
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Walker SE, Echeverri K. Spinal cord regeneration - the origins of progenitor cells for functional rebuilding. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2022; 75:101917. [PMID: 35623298 PMCID: PMC9878350 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2022.101917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The spinal cord is one of the most important structures for all vertebrate animals as it connects almost all parts of the body to the brain. Injury to the mammalian spinal cord has devastating consequences, resulting in paralysis with little to no hope of recovery. In contrast, other vertebrate animals have been known for centuries to be capable of functionally regenerating large lesions in the spinal cord. Here, we will review the current knowledge of spinal cord regeneration and recent work in different proregenerative animals that has begun to shed light on the cellular and molecular mechanisms these animals use to direct cells to rebuild a complex, functional spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Walker
- Corresponding author: Karen Echeverri (), Twitter account: S.E. Walker (@EcheverriLab), K. Echeverri (@MBLScience)
| | - Karen Echeverri
- Corresponding author: Karen Echeverri (), Twitter account: S.E. Walker (@EcheverriLab), K. Echeverri (@MBLScience)
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14
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Bonaccorsi di Patti MC, Angiulli E, Casini A, Vaccaro R, Cioni C, Toni M. Synuclein Analysis in Adult Xenopus laevis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116058. [PMID: 35682736 PMCID: PMC9181771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The α-, β- and γ-synucleins are small soluble proteins expressed in the nervous system of mammals and evolutionary conserved in vertebrates. After being discovered in the cartilaginous fish Torpedo californica, synucleins have been sequenced in all vertebrates, showing differences in the number of genes and splicing isoforms in different taxa. Although α-, β- and γ-synucleins share high homology in the N-terminal sequence, suggesting their evolution from a common ancestor, the three isoforms also differ in molecular characteristics, expression levels and tissue distribution. Moreover, their functions have yet to be fully understood. Great scientific interest on synucleins mainly derives from the involvement of α-synuclein in human neurodegenerative diseases, collectively named synucleinopathies, which involve the accumulation of amyloidogenic α-synuclein inclusions in neurons and glia cells. Studies on synucleinopathies can take advantage of the development of new vertebrate models other than mammals. Moreover, synuclein expression in non-mammalian vertebrates contribute to clarify the physiological role of these proteins in the evolutionary perspective. In this paper, gene expression levels of α-, β- and γ-synucleins have been analysed in the main organs of adult Xenopus laevis by qRT-PCR. Moreover, recombinant α-, β- and γ-synucleins were produced to test the specificity of commercial antibodies against α-synuclein used in Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Finally, the secondary structure of Xenopus synucleins was evaluated by circular dichroism analysis. Results indicate Xenopus as a good model for studying synucleinopathies, and provide a useful background for future studies on synuclein functions and their evolution in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisa Angiulli
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.A.); (C.C.)
| | - Arianna Casini
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.C.); (R.V.)
| | - Rosa Vaccaro
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.C.); (R.V.)
| | - Carla Cioni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.A.); (C.C.)
| | - Mattia Toni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.A.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.C.B.d.P.); (M.T.)
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15
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Closset M, Cailliau K, Slaby S, Marin M. Effects of Aluminium Contamination on the Nervous System of Freshwater Aquatic Vertebrates: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010031. [PMID: 35008450 PMCID: PMC8744726 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aluminium (Al) is the most common natural metallic element in the Earth’s crust. It is released into the environment through natural processes and human activities and accumulates in aquatic environments. This review compiles scientific data on the neurotoxicity of aluminium contamination on the nervous system of aquatic organisms. More precisely, it helps identify biomarkers of aluminium exposure for aquatic environment biomonitoring in freshwater aquatic vertebrates. Al is neurotoxic and accumulates in the nervous system of aquatic vertebrates, which is why it could be responsible for oxidative stress. In addition, it activates and inhibits antioxidant enzymes and leads to changes in acetylcholinesterase activity, neurotransmitter levels, and in the expression of several neural genes and nerve cell components. It also causes histological changes in nerve tissue, modifications of organism behaviour, and cognitive deficit. However, impacts of aluminium exposure on the early stages of aquatic vertebrate development are poorly described. Lastly, this review also poses the question of how accurate aquatic vertebrates (fishes and amphibians) could be used as model organisms to complement biological data relating to the developmental aspect. This “challenge” is very relevant since freshwater pollution with heavy metals has increased in the last few decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Closset
- University Lille, CNRS, UMR 8576-UGSF-Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, F-59000 Lille, France; (M.C.); (K.C.)
| | - Katia Cailliau
- University Lille, CNRS, UMR 8576-UGSF-Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, F-59000 Lille, France; (M.C.); (K.C.)
| | - Sylvain Slaby
- Normandie University, UNILEHAVRE, CNRS, UMR 3730 SCALE, Environmental Stress and Aquatic Biomonitoring (SEBIO), F-76600 Le Havre, France;
| | - Matthieu Marin
- University Lille, CNRS, UMR 8576-UGSF-Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, F-59000 Lille, France; (M.C.); (K.C.)
- Correspondence:
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16
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Dunton AD, Göpel T, Ho DH, Burggren W. Form and Function of the Vertebrate and Invertebrate Blood-Brain Barriers. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212111. [PMID: 34829989 PMCID: PMC8618301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The need to protect neural tissue from toxins or other substances is as old as neural tissue itself. Early recognition of this need has led to more than a century of investigation of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Many aspects of this important neuroprotective barrier have now been well established, including its cellular architecture and barrier and transport functions. Unsurprisingly, most research has had a human orientation, using mammalian and other animal models to develop translational research findings. However, cell layers forming a barrier between vascular spaces and neural tissues are found broadly throughout the invertebrates as well as in all vertebrates. Unfortunately, previous scenarios for the evolution of the BBB typically adopt a classic, now discredited 'scala naturae' approach, which inaccurately describes a putative evolutionary progression of the mammalian BBB from simple invertebrates to mammals. In fact, BBB-like structures have evolved independently numerous times, complicating simplistic views of the evolution of the BBB as a linear process. Here, we review BBBs in their various forms in both invertebrates and vertebrates, with an emphasis on the function, evolution, and conditional relevance of popular animal models such as the fruit fly and the zebrafish to mammalian BBB research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia D. Dunton
- Developmental Integrative Biology Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA; (T.G.); (W.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Torben Göpel
- Developmental Integrative Biology Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA; (T.G.); (W.B.)
| | - Dao H. Ho
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, HI 96859, USA;
| | - Warren Burggren
- Developmental Integrative Biology Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA; (T.G.); (W.B.)
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17
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Ly VT, Baudin PV, Pansodtee P, Jung EA, Voitiuk K, Rosen YM, Willsey HR, Mantalas GL, Seiler ST, Selberg JA, Cordero SA, Ross JM, Rolandi M, Pollen AA, Nowakowski TJ, Haussler D, Mostajo-Radji MA, Salama SR, Teodorescu M. Picroscope: low-cost system for simultaneous longitudinal biological imaging. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1261. [PMID: 34737378 PMCID: PMC8569150 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02779-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simultaneous longitudinal imaging across multiple conditions and replicates has been crucial for scientific studies aiming to understand biological processes and disease. Yet, imaging systems capable of accomplishing these tasks are economically unattainable for most academic and teaching laboratories around the world. Here, we propose the Picroscope, which is the first low-cost system for simultaneous longitudinal biological imaging made primarily using off-the-shelf and 3D-printed materials. The Picroscope is compatible with standard 24-well cell culture plates and captures 3D z-stack image data. The Picroscope can be controlled remotely, allowing for automatic imaging with minimal intervention from the investigator. Here, we use this system in a range of applications. We gathered longitudinal whole organism image data for frogs, zebrafish, and planaria worms. We also gathered image data inside an incubator to observe 2D monolayers and 3D mammalian tissue culture models. Using this tool, we can measure the behavior of entire organisms or individual cells over long-time periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria T Ly
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA.
| | - Pierre V Baudin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Pattawong Pansodtee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Erik A Jung
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Kateryna Voitiuk
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Yohei M Rosen
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Helen Rankin Willsey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Gary L Mantalas
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Spencer T Seiler
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - John A Selberg
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Sergio A Cordero
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Jayden M Ross
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Marco Rolandi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Alex A Pollen
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Tomasz J Nowakowski
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - David Haussler
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, USA
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Mohammed A Mostajo-Radji
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Sofie R Salama
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, USA
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA.
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA.
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18
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Kakebeen AD, Niswander L. Micronutrient imbalance and common phenotypes in neural tube defects. Genesis 2021; 59:e23455. [PMID: 34665506 PMCID: PMC8599664 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are among the most common birth defects, with a prevalence of close to 19 per 10,000 births worldwide. The etiology of NTDs is complex involving the interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Since nutrient deficiency is a risk factor and dietary changes are the major preventative measure to reduce the risk of NTDs, a more detailed understanding of how common micronutrient imbalances contribute to NTDs is crucial. While folic acid has been the most discussed environmental factor due to the success that population-wide fortification has had on prevention of NTDs, folic acid supplementation does not prevent all NTDs. The imbalance of several other micronutrients has been implicated as risks for NTDs by epidemiological studies and in vivo studies in animal models. In this review, we highlight recent literature deciphering the multifactorial mechanisms underlying NTDs with an emphasis on mouse and human data. Specifically, we focus on advances in our understanding of how too much or too little retinoic acid, zinc, and iron alter gene expression and cellular processes contributing to the pathobiology of NTDs. Synthesis of the discussed literature reveals common cellular phenotypes found in embryos with NTDs resulting from several micronutrient imbalances. The goal is to combine knowledge of these common cellular phenotypes with mechanisms underlying micronutrient imbalances to provide insights into possible new targets for preventative measures against NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneke Dixie Kakebeen
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Lee Niswander
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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19
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Baxi AB, Pade LR, Nemes P. Mass spectrometry based proteomics for developmental neurobiology in the amphibian Xenopus laevis. Curr Top Dev Biol 2021; 145:205-231. [PMID: 34074530 PMCID: PMC8314003 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The South African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis), a prominent vertebrate model in cell and developmental biology, has been instrumental in studying molecular mechanisms of neural development and disease. Recently, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), a bioanalytical technology, has expanded the molecular toolbox of protein detection and characterization (proteomics). This chapter overviews the characteristics, advantages, and challenges of this biological model and technology. Discussions are offered on their combined use to aid studies on cell differentiation and development of neural tissues. Finally, the emerging integration of proteomics and other 'omic technologies is reflected on to generate new knowledge, drive and test new hypotheses, and ultimately, advance the understanding of neural development during states of health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna B Baxi
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Leena R Pade
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Peter Nemes
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States.
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20
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Parisi C, Vashisht S, Winata CL. Fish-Ing for Enhancers in the Heart. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3914. [PMID: 33920121 PMCID: PMC8069060 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise control of gene expression is crucial to ensure proper development and biological functioning of an organism. Enhancers are non-coding DNA elements which play an essential role in regulating gene expression. They contain specific sequence motifs serving as binding sites for transcription factors which interact with the basal transcription machinery at their target genes. Heart development is regulated by intricate gene regulatory network ensuring precise spatiotemporal gene expression program. Mutations affecting enhancers have been shown to result in devastating forms of congenital heart defect. Therefore, identifying enhancers implicated in heart biology and understanding their mechanism is key to improve diagnosis and therapeutic options. Despite their crucial role, enhancers are poorly studied, mainly due to a lack of reliable way to identify them and determine their function. Nevertheless, recent technological advances have allowed rapid progress in enhancer discovery. Model organisms such as the zebrafish have contributed significant insights into the genetics of heart development through enabling functional analyses of genes and their regulatory elements in vivo. Here, we summarize the current state of knowledge on heart enhancers gained through studies in model organisms, discuss various approaches to discover and study their function, and finally suggest methods that could further advance research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costantino Parisi
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland; (C.P.); (S.V.)
| | - Shikha Vashisht
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland; (C.P.); (S.V.)
| | - Cecilia Lanny Winata
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland; (C.P.); (S.V.)
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
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21
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Gao J, Shen W. Xenopus in revealing developmental toxicity and modeling human diseases. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 268:115809. [PMID: 33096388 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The Xenopus model offers many advantages for investigation of the molecular, cellular, and behavioral mechanisms underlying embryo development. Moreover, Xenopus oocytes and embryos have been extensively used to study developmental toxicity and human diseases in response to various environmental chemicals. This review first summarizes recent advances in using Xenopus as a vertebrate model to study distinct types of tissue/organ development following exposure to environmental toxicants, chemical reagents, and pharmaceutical drugs. Then, the successful use of Xenopus as a model for diseases, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, autism, epilepsy, and cardiovascular disease, is reviewed. The potential application of Xenopus in genetic and chemical screening to protect against embryo deficits induced by chemical toxicants and related diseases is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanmei Gao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China; College of Life and Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Wanhua Shen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China.
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22
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Chang C, Hisamoto N. Engulfment Genes Promote Neuronal Regeneration in
Caenorhabditis Elegans
: Two Divergent But Complementary Views. Bioessays 2020; 42:e1900185. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chieh Chang
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois 60607 USA
| | - Naoki Hisamoto
- Dept. of Biological Science Graduate School of Science Nagoya University Furo‐cho, Chikusa‐ku, Aichi Prefecture Nagoya 464‐8602 Japan
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23
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Wang M, Wu H, Liu Y, Chen LM. Activation of mouse NBCe1-B by Xenopus laevis and mouse IRBITs: Role of the variable Nt appendage of IRBITs. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1862:183240. [PMID: 32119862 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The IP3 receptor binding protein released with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IRBIT) plays important roles in the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ signaling and intracellular pH. The mammals express two IRBIT paralogs, i.e., IRBIT1 (encoded by AHCYL1) and IRBIT2 (encoded by AHCYL2). The clawed frog Xenopus laevis oocyte is widely used for biophysical studies on ion channels and transporters. It remains unknown whether endogenous IRBIT is expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Here, we cloned from frog oocyte irbit2.L and irbit2.S, orthologs of mammalian IRBIT2. When over-expressed, the frog IRBITs powerfully stimulate the electrogenic Na+/HCO3- cotransporter NBCe1-B as mouse IRBIT2-V2 does. Expression of an isolated Nt fragment of NBCe1-B containing the IRBIT-binding domain greatly decreases NBCe1-B activity in oocytes, suggesting that the basal activity of NBCe1-B contains a large component derived from the stimulation by endogenous frog IRBIT. The frog IRBITs are highly homologous to the mammalian ones in the carboxyl-terminal region, but varies greatly in the amino-terminal (Nt) appendage. Interestingly, truncation study showed that the Nt appendage of IRBIT1 and the long Nt appendage of IRBIT2-V2 modestly enhance, whereas the short Nt appendage of IRBIT2-V4 greatly inhibits the functional interaction between IRBIT and NBCe1-B. Finally, Ala-substitution of Ser68, a key phosphorylation site in the PEST domain of IRBIT, causes distinct functional consequences depending on the structural context of the Nt appendage in different IRBIT isoforms. We conclude that the Nt appendage of IRBITs is not necessary for, but plays an important regulatory role in the functional interaction between IRBIT and NBCe1-B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Han Wu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
| | - Li-Ming Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science & Technology, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
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Traub RD, Whittington MA, Maier N, Schmitz D, Nagy JI. Could electrical coupling contribute to the formation of cell assemblies? Rev Neurosci 2019; 31:121-141. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2019-0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Cell assemblies and central pattern generators (CPGs) are related types of neuronal networks: both consist of interacting groups of neurons whose collective activities lead to defined functional outputs. In the case of a cell assembly, the functional output may be interpreted as a representation of something in the world, external or internal; for a CPG, the output ‘drives’ an observable (i.e. motor) behavior. Electrical coupling, via gap junctions, is critical for the development of CPGs, as well as for their actual operation in the adult animal. Electrical coupling is also known to be important in the development of hippocampal and neocortical principal cell networks. We here argue that electrical coupling – in addition to chemical synapses – may therefore contribute to the formation of at least some cell assemblies in adult animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger D. Traub
- AI Foundations, IBM T.J. Watson Research Center , Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 , USA
| | | | - Nikolaus Maier
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin , Neuroscience Research Center , Charitéplatz 1 , D-10117 Berlin , Germany
| | - Dietmar Schmitz
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin , Neuroscience Research Center , Charitéplatz 1 , D-10117 Berlin , Germany
| | - James I. Nagy
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg R3E OJ9, MB , Canada
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Calcium Activity Dynamics Correlate with Neuronal Phenotype at a Single Cell Level and in a Threshold-Dependent Manner. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20081880. [PMID: 30995769 PMCID: PMC6515432 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium is a ubiquitous signaling molecule that plays a vital role in many physiological processes. Recent work has shown that calcium activity is especially critical in vertebrate neural development. Here, we investigated if calcium activity and neuronal phenotype are correlated only on a population level or on the level of single cells. Using Xenopus primary cell culture in which individual cells can be unambiguously identified and associated with a molecular phenotype, we correlated calcium activity with neuronal phenotype on the single-cell level. This analysis revealed that, at the neural plate stage, a high frequency of low-amplitude spiking activity correlates with an excitatory, glutamatergic phenotype, while high-amplitude spiking activity correlates with an inhibitory, GABAergic phenotype. Surprisingly, we also found that high-frequency, low-amplitude spiking activity correlates with neural progenitor cells and that differentiating cells exhibit higher spike amplitude. Additional methods of analysis suggested that differentiating marker tubb2b-expressing cells exhibit relatively persistent and predictable calcium activity compared to the irregular activity of neural progenitor cells. Our study highlights the value of using a range of thresholds for analyzing calcium activity data and underscores the importance of employing multiple methods to characterize the often irregular, complex patterns of calcium activity during early neural development.
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Kerstens A, Corthout N, Pavie B, Huang Z, Vernaillen F, Vande Velde G, Munck S. A Label-free Multicolor Optical Surface Tomography (ALMOST) imaging method for nontransparent 3D samples. BMC Biol 2019; 17:1. [PMID: 30616566 PMCID: PMC6323867 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-018-0614-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Current mesoscale 3D imaging techniques are limited to transparent or cleared samples or require the use of X-rays. This is a severe limitation for many research areas, as the 3D color surface morphology of opaque samples—for example, intact adult Drosophila, Xenopus embryos, and other non-transparent samples—cannot be assessed. We have developed “ALMOST,” a novel optical method for 3D surface imaging of reflective opaque objects utilizing an optical projection tomography device in combination with oblique illumination and optical filters. Results As well as demonstrating image formation, we provide background information and explain the reconstruction—and consequent rendering—using a standard filtered back projection algorithm and 3D software. We expanded our approach to fluorescence and multi-channel spectral imaging, validating our results with micro-computed tomography. Different biological and inorganic test samples were used to highlight the versatility of our approach. To further demonstrate the applicability of ALMOST, we explored the muscle-induced form change of the Drosophila larva, imaged adult Drosophila, dynamically visualized the closure of neural folds during neurulation of live Xenopus embryos, and showed the complementarity of our approach by comparison with transmitted light and fluorescence OPT imaging of a Xenopus tadpole. Conclusion Thus, our new modality for spectral/color, macro/mesoscopic 3D imaging can be applied to a variety of model organisms and enables the longitudinal surface dynamics during development to be revealed. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12915-018-0614-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axelle Kerstens
- VIB Bio Imaging Core, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Research Group Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nikky Corthout
- VIB Bio Imaging Core, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Research Group Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Benjamin Pavie
- VIB Bio Imaging Core, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Research Group Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Zengjin Huang
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Neuronal Wiring Lab, Department of Neuroscience, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank Vernaillen
- VIB BioInformatics Core, Rijvisschestraat 126 3R, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 505, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sebastian Munck
- VIB Bio Imaging Core, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Research Group Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Box 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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Paudel S, Sindelar R, Saha M. Calcium Signaling in Vertebrate Development and Its Role in Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3390. [PMID: 30380695 PMCID: PMC6274931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence over the past three decades suggests that altered calcium signaling during development may be a major driving force for adult pathophysiological events. Well over a hundred human genes encode proteins that are specifically dedicated to calcium homeostasis and calcium signaling, and the majority of these are expressed during embryonic development. Recent advances in molecular techniques have identified impaired calcium signaling during development due to either mutations or dysregulation of these proteins. This impaired signaling has been implicated in various human diseases ranging from cardiac malformations to epilepsy. Although the molecular basis of these and other diseases have been well studied in adult systems, the potential developmental origins of such diseases are less well characterized. In this review, we will discuss the recent evidence that examines different patterns of calcium activity during early development, as well as potential medical conditions associated with its dysregulation. Studies performed using various model organisms, including zebrafish, Xenopus, and mouse, have underscored the critical role of calcium activity in infertility, abortive pregnancy, developmental defects, and a range of diseases which manifest later in life. Understanding the underlying mechanisms by which calcium regulates these diverse developmental processes remains a challenge; however, this knowledge will potentially enable calcium signaling to be used as a therapeutic target in regenerative and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudip Paudel
- College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187, USA.
| | - Regan Sindelar
- College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187, USA.
| | - Margaret Saha
- College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187, USA.
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