Using i-GONAD for Cell-Type-Specific and Systematic Analysis of Developmental Transcription Factors In Vivo

Advances in the molecular mechanisms of zinc-finger transcription factors in neurodevelopmental disorders

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) constitute a heterogeneous group of early-onset brain dysfunction disorders, which may arise from genetic or acquired etiologies. These disorders are characterized by behavioral and cognitive deficits that predominantly manifest during childhood development, thereby potentially impairing an individual's performance in learning, sports, and social situations. A comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of NDDs is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. Zinc-finger transcription factors (ZFPs) play a pivotal role in regulating gene expression by modulating the binding of RNA polymerase to DNA, thereby either activating or repressing gene transcription. In recent years, the BCL11 gene family of ZFPs has garnered significant attention due to its critical involvement in nervous system development. This review aims to elucidate the structure and molecular functions of the BCL11 gene family, discuss its impact on the development of the central nervous system, and explore its association with neurodevelopmental disorders.

The Role of Bcl11 Transcription Factors in Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) comprise a diverse group of diseases, including developmental delay, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). NDDs are caused by aberrant brain development due to genetic and environmental factors. To establish specific and curative therapeutic approaches, it is indispensable to gain precise mechanistic insight into the cellular and molecular pathogenesis of NDDs. Mutations of BCL11A and BCL11B, two closely related, ultra-conserved zinc-finger transcription factors, were recently reported to be associated with NDDs, including developmental delay, ASD, and ID, as well as morphogenic defects such as cerebellar hypoplasia. In mice, Bcl11 transcription factors are well known to orchestrate various cellular processes during brain development, for example, neural progenitor cell proliferation, neuronal migration, and the differentiation as well as integration of neurons into functional circuits. Developmental defects observed in both, mice and humans display striking similarities, suggesting Bcl11 knockout mice provide excellent models for analyzing human disease. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the cellular and molecular functions of Bcl11a and b and links experimental research to the corresponding NDDs observed in humans. Moreover, it outlines trajectories for future translational research that may help to better understand the molecular basis of Bcl11-dependent NDDs as well as to conceive disease-specific therapeutic approaches.