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Miao X, Wang F, Yunus MA, Ismail IS, Wang T. Long noncoding RNA KCNMA1-AS2 regulates the function of colorectal cancer cells and sponges miR-1227-5p. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:857. [PMID: 39026221 PMCID: PMC11256649 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12608-9] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with altered expression significantly influence colorectal cancer (CRC) progression and behavior. The functions of many lncRNAs in CRC are not clear yet. This study aimed to discover novel lncRNA entities and comprehensively examine and validate their roles and underlying molecular mechanisms in CRC. METHODS Tissue samples, both tumourous and non-tumourous, from three CRC patients were submitted for sequencing. Following expression validation in samples from ten patients and four CRC cell lines. The lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 was synthesized by In-vitro transcription RNA synthesis and the lncRNA was directly transfected into CRC cell lines to overexpress. Functional assays including MTT proliferation assay, Annexin-V/propidium iodide apoptosis assay, wound healing migration assay and cell cycle assays were performed to evaluate the effect of overexpression of KCNMA1-AS2. Furthermore, the binding of KCNMA1-AS2 to miR-1227-5p was confirmed using dual luciferase reporter assays and qPCR analyses. Subsequent bioinformatics analyses identified 58 potential downstream targets of miR-1227-5p across three databases. RESULTS In this study, we identified the lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2, the expression of which was down-regulated consistently in cancer tissues and CRC cell lines compared to non-cancerous tissues. The overexpression of lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 led to significant reduction in CRC cell proliferation and migration, increase in cell apoptosis, and more cells arrested in S phase. Additionally, the interaction between KCNMA1-AS2 and miR-1227-5p was confirmed through dual luciferase reporter assay and qPCR analysis. It is also putatively predicted that MTHFR and ST8SIA2 may be linked to CRC based on bioinformatics analyses. CONCLUSIONS LncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 exhibited distinct gene expression patterns in both CRC tissue and cell lines, impacting various cellular functions while also acting as a sponge for miR-1227-5p.The findings spotlight lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 as a potential marker for diagnosis and treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinzhi Miao
- The School of Medical Humanities, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan province, 453003, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, Kepala Batas, Penang, 13200, Malaysia
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan province, 453003, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, Kepala Batas, Penang, 13200, Malaysia
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan province, 453003, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan province, 453003, China
| | - Muhammad Amir Yunus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, Kepala Batas, Penang, 13200, Malaysia
| | - Ida Shazrina Ismail
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, Kepala Batas, Penang, 13200, Malaysia.
| | - Tianyun Wang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Protein Expression System, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan province, 453003, China.
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2
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Mazziotta C, Badiale G, Cervellera CF, Tognon M, Martini F, Rotondo JC. Regulatory mechanisms of circular RNAs during human mesenchymal stem cell osteogenic differentiation. Theranostics 2024; 14:143-158. [PMID: 38164139 PMCID: PMC10750202 DOI: 10.7150/thno.89066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Human osteogenic differentiation is a complex and well-orchestrated process which involves a plethora of molecular players and cellular processes. A growing number of studies have underlined that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play an important regulatory role during human osteogenic differentiation. CircRNAs are single-stranded, covalently closed non-coding RNA molecules that are acquiring increased attention as epigenetic regulators of gene expression. Given their intrinsic high conformational stability, abundance, and specificity, circRNAs can undertake various biological activities in order to regulate multiple cellular processes, including osteogenic differentiation. The most recent evidence indicates that circRNAs control human osteogenesis by preventing the inhibitory activity of miRNAs on their downstream target genes, using a competitive endogenous RNA mechanism. The aim of this review is to draw attention to the currently known regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs during human osteogenic differentiation. Specifically, we provide an understanding of recent advances in research conducted on various human mesenchymal stem cell types that underlined the importance of circRNAs in regulating osteogenesis. A comprehensive understanding of the underlying regulatory mechanisms of circRNA in osteogenesis will improve knowledge on the molecular processes of bone growth, resulting in the potential development of novel preclinical and clinical studies and the discovery of novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools for bone disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine - Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara. 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street. Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giada Badiale
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine - Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara. 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street. Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine - Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara. 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street. Ferrara, Italy
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3
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Lintas C, Cassano I, Azzarà A, Stigliano MG, Gregorj C, Sacco R, Stoccoro A, Coppedè F, Gurrieri F. Maternal Epigenetic Dysregulation as a Possible Risk Factor for Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030585. [PMID: 36980856 PMCID: PMC10048308 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders and are considered multifactorial diseases with both genetic and environmental components. Epigenetic dysregulation driven by adverse environmental factors has recently been documented in neurodevelopmental disorders as the possible etiological agent for their onset. However, most studies have focused on the epigenomes of the probands rather than on a possible epigenetic dysregulation arising in their mothers and influencing neurodevelopment during pregnancy. The aim of this research was to analyze the methylation profile of four well-known genes involved in neurodevelopment (BDNF, RELN, MTHFR and HTR1A) in the mothers of forty-five age-matched AS (Asperger Syndrome), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and typically developing children. We found a significant increase of methylation at the promoter of the RELN and HTR1A genes in AS mothers compared to ADHD and healthy control mothers. For the MTHFR gene, promoter methylation was significantly higher in AS mothers compared to healthy control mothers only. The observed dysregulation in AS mothers could potentially contribute to the affected condition in their children deserving further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Lintas
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Operative Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-225419174
| | - Ilaria Cassano
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessia Azzarà
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Stigliano
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Gregorj
- Operative Research Unit of Hematology, Stem Cell Transplantation, Transfusion Medicine and Cellular Therapy, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Roberto Sacco
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Operative Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
| | - Andrea Stoccoro
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabio Coppedè
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Fiorella Gurrieri
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Roma, Italy
- Operative Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Roma, Italy
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Greeson KW, Crow KMS, Edenfield RC, Easley CA. Inheritance of paternal lifestyles and exposures through sperm DNA methylation. Nat Rev Urol 2023:10.1038/s41585-022-00708-9. [PMID: 36653672 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00708-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Many different lifestyle factors and chemicals present in the environment are a threat to the reproductive tracts of humans. The potential for parental preconception exposure to alter gametes and for these alterations to be passed on to offspring and negatively affect embryo growth and development is of concern. The connection between maternal exposures and offspring health is a frequent focus in epidemiological studies, but paternal preconception exposures are much less frequently considered and are also very important determinants of offspring health. Several environmental and lifestyle factors in men have been found to alter sperm epigenetics, which can regulate gene expression during early embryonic development. Epigenetic information is thought to be a mechanism that evolved for organisms to pass on information about their lived experiences to offspring. DNA methylation is a well-studied epigenetic regulator that is sensitive to environmental exposures in somatic cells and sperm. The continuous production of sperm from spermatogonial stem cells throughout a man's adult life and the presence of spermatogonial stem cells outside of the blood-testis barrier makes them susceptible to environmental insults. Furthermore, altered sperm DNA methylation patterns can be maintained throughout development and ultimately result in impairments, which could predispose offspring to disease. Innovations in human stem cell-based spermatogenic models can be used to elucidate the paternal origins of health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine W Greeson
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Krista M S Crow
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - R Clayton Edenfield
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Charles A Easley
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA. .,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
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5
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Santiago E, Moreno DF, Acar M. Phenotypic plasticity as a facilitator of microbial evolution. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2022; 8:dvac020. [PMID: 36465837 PMCID: PMC9709823 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvac020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Tossed about by the tides of history, the inheritance of acquired characteristics has found a safe harbor at last in the rapidly expanding field of epigenetics. The slow pace of genetic variation and high opportunity cost associated with maintaining a diverse genetic pool are well-matched by the flexibility of epigenetic traits, which can enable low-cost exploration of phenotypic space and reactive tuning to environmental pressures. Aiding in the generation of a phenotypically plastic population, epigenetic mechanisms often provide a hotbed of innovation for countering environmental pressures, while the potential for genetic fixation can lead to strong epigenetic-genetic evolutionary synergy. At the level of cells and cellular populations, we begin this review by exploring the breadth of mechanisms for the storage and intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information, followed by a brief review of common and exotic epigenetically regulated phenotypes. We conclude by offering an in-depth coverage of recent papers centered around two critical issues: the evolvability of epigenetic traits through Baldwinian adaptive phenotypic plasticity and the potential for synergy between epigenetic and genetic evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emerson Santiago
- Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, 219 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - David F Moreno
- Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, 219 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Systems Biology Institute, Yale University, 850 West Campus Drive, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Murat Acar
- *Correspondence address. Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, 219 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA. Tel: +90 (543) 304-0388; E-mail:
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6
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Yahaya TO, Bashar DM, Oladele EO, Umar J, Anyebe D, Izuafa A. Epigenetics in the etiology and management of infertility. World J Med Genet 2022; 10:7-21. [DOI: 10.5496/wjmg.v10.i2.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic disruptions have been implicated in some cases of infertility and can serve as therapeutic targets. However, the involvement of epigenetics in infertility has not received adequate attention.
AIM This study aimed to determine the epigenetic basis of infertility in order to enhance public knowledge.
METHODS Relevant articles on the subject were collected from PubMed, RCA, Google Scholar, SpringerLink, and Scopus. The articles were pooled together and duplicates were removed using Endnote software.
RESULTS Available information shows that epigenetic mechanisms, mainly DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA interference are necessary for normal gametogenesis and embryogenesis. As a result, epigenetic disruptions in genes that control gametogenesis and embryogenesis, such as DDX3X, ADH4, AZF, PLAG1, D1RAS3, CYGB, MEST, JMJD1A, KCNQ1, IGF2, H19, and MTHFR may result in infertility. Aberrant DNA methylation during genomic imprinting and parental epigenetic mark erasures, in particular, may affect the DNA epigenomes of sperm and oocytes, resulting in reproductive abnormalities. Histone epigenetic dysregulation during oocyte development and histone-protamine replacement in the sperm may also cause reproductive abnormalities. Furthermore, overexpression or repression of certain microRNAs embedded in the ovary, testis, embryo, as well as granulosa cells and oocytes may impair reproduction. Male infertility is characterized by spermatogenesis failure, which includes oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, and teratozoospermia, while female infertility is characterized by polycystic ovary syndrome. Some epigenetic modifications can be reversed by deactivating the regulatory enzymes, implying that epigenetic reprogramming could help treat infertility in some cases. For some disorders, epigenetic drugs are available, but none have been formulated for infertility.
CONCLUSION Some cases of infertility have an epigenetic etiology and can be treated by reversing the same epigenetic mechanism that caused it. As a result, medical practitioners are urged to come up with epigenetic treatments for infertility that have an epigenetic cause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danlami M Bashar
- Department of Microbiology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Esther O Oladele
- Biology Unit, Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos, Lagos State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Ja'afar Umar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Anyebe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Abdulrazaq Izuafa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
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7
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Intrachromosomal Looping and Histone K27 Methylation Coordinately Regulates the lncRNA H19-Fetal Mitogen IGF2 Imprinting Cluster in the Decidual Microenvironment of Early Pregnancy. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193130. [PMID: 36231092 PMCID: PMC9563431 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a highly heterogeneous complication of pregnancy with the underlying mechanisms remaining uncharacterized. Dysregulated decidualization is a critical contributor to the phenotypic alterations related to pregnancy complications. To understand the molecular factors underlying RSA, we explored the role of longnoncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the decidual microenvironment where the crosstalk at the fetal–maternal interface occurs. By exploring RNA-seq data from RSA patients, we identified H19, a noncoding RNA that exhibits maternal monoallelic expression, as one of the most upregulated lncRNAs associated with RSA. The paternally expressed fetal mitogen IGF2, which is reciprocally coregulated with H19 within the same imprinting cluster, was also upregulated. Notably, both genes underwent loss of imprinting, as H19 and IGF2 were actively transcribed from both parental alleles in some decidual tissues. This loss of imprinting in decidual tissues was associated with the loss of the H3K27m3 repressive histone marker in the IGF2 promoter, CpG hypomethylation at the central CTCF binding site in the imprinting control center (ICR), and the loss of CTCF-mediated intrachromosomal looping. These data suggest that dysregulation of the H19/IGF2 imprinting pathway may be an important epigenetic factor in the decidual microenvironment related to poor decidualization.
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8
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Rotondo JC, Martini F, Maritati M, Caselli E, Gallenga CE, Guarino M, De Giorgio R, Mazziotta C, Tramarin ML, Badiale G, Tognon M, Contini C. Advanced Molecular and Immunological Diagnostic Methods to Detect SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Microorganisms 2022; 10:1193. [PMID: 35744711 PMCID: PMC9231257 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10061193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 emerged in late 2019 in China and quickly spread across the globe, causing over 521 million cases of infection and 6.26 million deaths to date. After 2 years, numerous advances have been made. First of all, the preventive vaccine, which has been implemented in record time, is effective in more than 95% of cases. Additionally, in the diagnostic field, there are numerous molecular and antigenic diagnostic kits that are equipped with high sensitivity and specificity. Real Time-PCR-based assays for the detection of viral RNA are currently considered the gold-standard method for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis and can be used efficiently on pooled nasopharyngeal, or oropharyngeal samples for widespread screening. Moreover, additional, and more advanced molecular methods such as droplet-digital PCR (ddPCR), clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS), are currently under development to detect the SARS-CoV-2 RNA. However, as the number of subjects infected with SARS-CoV-2 continuously increases globally, health care systems are being placed under increased stress. Thus, the clinical laboratory plays an important role, helping to select especially asymptomatic individuals who are actively carrying the live replicating virus, with fast and non-invasive molecular technologies. Recent diagnostic strategies, other than molecular methods, have been adopted to either detect viral antigens, i.e., antigen-based immunoassays, or human anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, i.e., antibody-based immunoassays, in nasal or oropharyngeal swabs, as well as in blood or saliva samples. However, the role of mucosal sIgAs, which are essential in the control of viruses entering the body through mucosal surfaces, remains to be elucidated, and in particular the role of the immune response in counteracting SARS-CoV-2 infection, primarily at the site(s) of virus entry that appears to be promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Orthopaedic Ward, Casa di Cura Santa Maria Maddalena, 45030 Occhiobello, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology, CIAS Research Center and LTTA, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Carla Enrica Gallenga
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Matteo Guarino
- Department of Translational Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, University of Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (M.G.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Roberto De Giorgio
- Department of Translational Medicine, St. Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, University of Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (M.G.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Tramarin
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Giada Badiale
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
| | - Carlo Contini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (F.M.); (M.M.); (C.E.G.); (C.M.); (M.L.T.); (G.B.); (M.T.)
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Botezatu A, Vladoiu S, Fudulu A, Albulescu A, Plesa A, Muresan A, Stancu C, Iancu IV, Diaconu CC, Velicu A, Popa OM, Badiu C, Dinu-Draganescu D. Advanced molecular approaches in male infertility diagnosis. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:684-704. [PMID: 35594455 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac105] [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: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the recent years a special attention has been given to a major health concern namely to male infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, taken into account the statistics that highlight that sperm counts have dropped by 50-60% in recent decades. According to the WHO, infertility affects approximately 9% of couples globally, and the male factor is believed to be present in roughly 50% of cases, with exclusive responsibility in 30%. The aim of this manuscript is to present an evidence-based approach for diagnosing male infertility that includes finding new solutions for diagnosis and critical outcomes, retrieving up-to-date studies and existing guidelines. The diverse factors that induce male infertility generated in a vast amount of data that needed to be analysed by a clinician before a decision could be made for each individual. Modern medicine faces numerous obstacles as a result of the massive amount of data generated by the molecular biology discipline. To address complex clinical problems, vast data must be collected, analysed, and used, which can be very challenging. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) methods to create a decision support system can help predict the diagnosis and guide treatment for infertile men, based on analysis of different data as environmental and lifestyle, clinical (sperm count, morphology, hormone testing, karyotype, etc.) and "omics" bigdata. Ultimately, the development of AI algorithms will assist clinicians in formulating diagnosis, making treatment decisions, and predicting outcomes for assisted reproduction techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Botezatu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - S Vladoiu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Fudulu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Albulescu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania.,National Institute for Chemical pharmaceutical Research & Development
| | - A Plesa
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Muresan
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - C Stancu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - I V Iancu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - C C Diaconu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Velicu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - O M Popa
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - C Badiu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania.,"Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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10
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Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Gafà R, Touzé A, Durand MA, Martini F, Rotondo JC. The Role of Histone Post-Translational Modifications in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:832047. [PMID: 35350569 PMCID: PMC8957841 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.832047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive form of non–melanoma skin cancer whose 5-year survival rate is 63%. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), a small DNA tumor virus, is the etiological agent of MCC. Although representing a small proportion of MCC cases, MCPyV-negative MCCs have also been identified. The role of epigenetic mechanisms, including histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) in MCC, have been only partially determined. This review aims to describe the most recent progress on PTMs and their regulative factors in the context of MCC onset/development, providing an overview of current findings on both MCC subtypes. An outline of current knowledge on the potential employment of PTMs and related factors as diagnostic and prognostic markers, as well as novel treatment strategies targeting the reversibility of PTMs for MCC therapy is provided. Recent research shows that PTMs are emerging as important epigenetic players involved in MCC onset/development, and therefore may show a potential clinical significance. Deeper and integrated knowledge of currently known PTM dysregulations is of paramount importance in order to understand the molecular basis of MCC and improve the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic options for this deadly tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Gafà
- Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antoine Touzé
- ISP "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus" Team, UMR INRA 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Marie-Alice Durand
- ISP "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus" Team, UMR INRA 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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11
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Oton-Gonzalez L, Mazziotta C, Iaquinta MR, Mazzoni E, Nocini R, Trevisiol L, D’Agostino A, Tognon M, Rotondo JC, Martini F. Genetics and Epigenetics of Bone Remodeling and Metabolic Bone Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031500. [PMID: 35163424 PMCID: PMC8836080 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone metabolism consists of a balance between bone formation and bone resorption, which is mediated by osteoblast and osteoclast activity, respectively. In order to ensure bone plasticity, the bone remodeling process needs to function properly. Mesenchymal stem cells differentiate into the osteoblast lineage by activating different signaling pathways, including transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)/bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and the Wingless/Int-1 (Wnt)/β-catenin pathways. Recent data indicate that bone remodeling processes are also epigenetically regulated by DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, and non-coding RNA expressions, such as micro-RNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs. Mutations and dysfunctions in pathways regulating the osteoblast differentiation might influence the bone remodeling process, ultimately leading to a large variety of metabolic bone diseases. In this review, we aim to summarize and describe the genetics and epigenetics of the bone remodeling process. Moreover, the current findings behind the genetics of metabolic bone diseases are also reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Oton-Gonzalez
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.O.-G.); (C.M.); (M.R.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.O.-G.); (C.M.); (M.R.I.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Iaquinta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.O.-G.); (C.M.); (M.R.I.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Riccardo Nocini
- Unit of Otolaryngology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Lorenzo Trevisiol
- Unit of Maxillo-Facial Surgery and Dentistry, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.T.); (A.D.)
| | - Antonio D’Agostino
- Unit of Maxillo-Facial Surgery and Dentistry, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.T.); (A.D.)
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.O.-G.); (C.M.); (M.R.I.); (M.T.)
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.O.-G.); (C.M.); (M.R.I.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence: (J.C.R.); (F.M.); Tel.: +39-0532-455536 (J.C.R.); +39-0532-455540 (F.M.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.O.-G.); (C.M.); (M.R.I.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence: (J.C.R.); (F.M.); Tel.: +39-0532-455536 (J.C.R.); +39-0532-455540 (F.M.)
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12
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Mazziotta C, Pellielo G, Tognon M, Martini F, Rotondo JC. Significantly Low Levels of IgG Antibodies Against Oncogenic Merkel Cell Polyomavirus in Sera From Females Affected by Spontaneous Abortion. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:789991. [PMID: 34970247 PMCID: PMC8712937 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.789991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a small DNA tumor virus ubiquitous in humans. MCPyV establishes a clinically asymptomatic lifelong infection in healthy immunocompetent individuals. Viral infections are considered to be risk factors for spontaneous abortion (SA), which is the most common adverse complication of pregnancy. The role of MCPyV in SA remains undetermined. Herein, the impact of MCPyV infection in females affected by SA was investigated. Specifically, an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method with two linear synthetic peptides/mimotopes mimicking MCPyV antigens was used to investigate immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against MCPyV in sera from 94 females affected by SA [mean ± standard deviation (SD) age 35 ± (6) years] and from 96 healthy females undergoing voluntary pregnancy interruption [VI, mean (±SD) age 32 ± (7) years]. MCPyV seroprevalence and serological profiles were analyzed. The overall prevalence of serum IgG antibodies against MCPyV was 35.1% (33/94) and 37.5% (36/96) in SA and VI females, respectively (p > 0.05). Notably, serological profile analyses indicated lower optical densities (ODs) in females with SA compared to those undergoing VI (p < 0.05), thus indicating a reduced IgG antibody response in SA females. Circulating IgGs were identified in sera from SA and VI females. Our immunological findings indicate that a relatively reduced fraction of pregnant females carry serum anti-MCPyV IgG antibodies, while SA females presented a more pronounced decrease in IgG antibody response to MCPyV. Although yet to be determined, this immunological decrease might prompt an increase in MCPyV multiplication events in females experiencing abortive events. The role of MCPyV in SA, if present, remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Pellielo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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13
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Mazziotta C, Rotondo JC, Lanzillotti C, Campione G, Martini F, Tognon M. Cancer biology and molecular genetics of A 3 adenosine receptor. Oncogene 2022; 41:301-308. [PMID: 34750517 PMCID: PMC8755539 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02090-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) is a cell membrane protein, which has been found to be overexpressed in a large number of cancer types. This receptor plays an important role in cancer by interacting with adenosine. Specifically, A3AR has a dual nature in different pathophysiological conditions, as it is expressed according to tissue type and stimulated by an adenosine dose-dependent manner. A3AR activation leads to tumor growth, cell proliferation and survival in some cases, while triggering cytostatic and apoptotic pathways in others. This review aims to describe the most relevant aspects of A3AR activation and its ligands whereas it summarizes A3AR activities in cancer. Progress in the field of A3AR modulators, with a potential therapeutic role in cancer treatment are reported, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine-Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine-Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine-Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Campione
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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14
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Rotondo JC, Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Tognon M, Martini F. Epigenetic Dysregulations in Merkel Cell Polyomavirus-Driven Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11464. [PMID: 34768895 PMCID: PMC8584046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a small DNA virus with oncogenic potential. MCPyV is the causative agent of Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), a rare but aggressive tumor of the skin. The role of epigenetic mechanisms, such as histone posttranslational modifications (HPTMs), DNA methylation, and microRNA (miRNA) regulation on MCPyV-driven MCC has recently been highlighted. In this review, we aim to describe and discuss the latest insights into HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA regulation, as well as their regulative factors in the context of MCPyV-driven MCC, to provide an overview of current findings on how MCPyV is involved in the dysregulation of these epigenetic processes. The current state of the art is also described as far as potentially using epigenetic dysregulations and related factors as diagnostic and prognostic tools is concerned, in addition to targets for MCPyV-driven MCC therapy. Growing evidence suggests that the dysregulation of HPTMs, DNA methylation, and miRNA pathways plays a role in MCPyV-driven MCC etiopathogenesis, which, therefore, may potentially be clinically significant for this deadly tumor. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms and related factors may improve diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy for MCPyV-driven MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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15
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Zhou Q, Xiong Y, Qu B, Bao A, Zhang Y. DNA Methylation and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: A Mysterious Compass? Front Immunol 2021; 12:738962. [PMID: 34745108 PMCID: PMC8566749 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.738962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a common and severe pathological pregnancy, whose pathogenesis is not fully understood. With the development of epigenetics, the study of DNA methylation, provides a new perspective on the pathogenesis and therapy of RPL. The abnormal DNA methylation of imprinted genes, placenta-specific genes, immune-related genes and sperm DNA may, directly or indirectly, affect embryo implantation, growth and development, leading to the occurrence of RPL. In addition, the unique immune tolerogenic microenvironment formed at the maternal-fetal interface has an irreplaceable effect on the maintenance of pregnancy. In view of these, changes in the cellular components of the maternal-fetal immune microenvironment and the regulation of DNA methylation have attracted a lot of research interest. This review summarizes the research progress of DNA methylation involved in the occurrence of RPL and the regulation of the maternal-fetal immune microenvironment. The review provides insights into the personalized diagnosis and treatment of RPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhou
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunhe Xiong
- Urology Department, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bing Qu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Anyu Bao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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16
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Rotondo JC, Martini F, Maritati M, Mazziotta C, Di Mauro G, Lanzillotti C, Barp N, Gallerani A, Tognon M, Contini C. SARS-CoV-2 Infection: New Molecular, Phylogenetic, and Pathogenetic Insights. Efficacy of Current Vaccines and the Potential Risk of Variants. Viruses 2021; 13:1687. [PMID: 34578269 PMCID: PMC8473168 DOI: 10.3390/v13091687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a newly discovered coronavirus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. COVID-19 has rapidly become a public health emergency of international concern. Although remarkable scientific achievements have been reached since the beginning of the pandemic, the knowledge behind this novel coronavirus, in terms of molecular and pathogenic characteristics and zoonotic potential, is still relatively limited. Today, there is a vaccine, or rather several vaccines, which, for the first time in the history of highly contagious infectious diseases that have plagued mankind, has been manufactured in just one year. Currently, four vaccines are licensed by regulatory agencies, and they use RNA or viral vector technologies. The positive effects of the vaccination campaign are being felt in many parts of the world, but the disappearance of this new infection is still far from being a reality, as it is also threatened by the presence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants that could undermine the effectiveness of the vaccine, hampering the immunization control efforts. Indeed, the current findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 is adapting to transmission in humans more efficiently, while further divergence from the initial archetype should be considered. In this review, we aimed to provide a collection of the current knowledge regarding the molecular, phylogenetic, and pathogenetic insights into SARS-CoV-2. The most recent findings obtained with respect to the impact of novel emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants as well as the development and implementation of vaccines are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Mauro
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicole Barp
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Altea Gallerani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Contini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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17
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Rotondo JC, Lanzillotti C, Mazziotta C, Tognon M, Martini F. Epigenetics of Male Infertility: The Role of DNA Methylation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:689624. [PMID: 34368137 PMCID: PMC8339558 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.689624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a number of studies focused on the role of epigenetics, including DNA methylation, in spermatogenesis and male infertility. We aimed to provide an overview of the knowledge concerning the gene and genome methylation and its regulation during spermatogenesis, specifically in the context of male infertility etiopathogenesis. Overall, the findings support the hypothesis that sperm DNA methylation is associated with sperm alterations and infertility. Several genes have been found to be differentially methylated in relation to impaired spermatogenesis and/or reproductive dysfunction. Particularly, DNA methylation defects of MEST and H19 within imprinted genes and MTHFR within non-imprinted genes have been repeatedly linked with male infertility. A deep knowledge of sperm DNA methylation status in association with reduced reproductive potential could improve the development of novel diagnostic tools for this disease. Further studies are needed to better elucidate the mechanisms affecting methylation in sperm and their impact on male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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18
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Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR), which is known as a severe complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus, can cause varying degrees of damage to visual acuity. The pathogenesis of DR is multifactorial and not fully understood. Many previous research studies have revealed that an aberrant level of some long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) may accelerate the development of DR. These lncRNAs are regulatory factors and research related to them is always underway. In this review, we will update several types of lncRNAs based on the previous studies which are related to the development of DR and discuss its potential mechanisms of action and connections. Generally, the review will help us know more about lncRNAs and provide directions for future research related to DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinying Huang
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinying Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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19
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Huang Z, Chu L, Liang J, Tan X, Wang Y, Wen J, Chen J, Wu Y, Liu S, Liao J, Hou R, Ding Z, Zhang Z, Liang H, Song S, Yang C, Zhang J, Guo T, Chen X, Zhang B. H19 Promotes HCC Bone Metastasis Through Reducing Osteoprotegerin Expression in a Protein Phosphatase 1 Catalytic Subunit Alpha/p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Dependent Manner and Sponging microRNA 200b-3p. Hepatology 2021; 74:214-232. [PMID: 33615520 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Bone is the second most frequent site of metastasis for HCC, which leads to an extremely poor prognosis. HCC bone metastasis is typically osteolytic, involving the activation of osteoclasts. Long noncoding RNA H19 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of human cancers. Nonetheless, the mechanism underlying the participation of H19 in HCC bone metastasis remains unclear. APPROACH AND RESULTS The current study established a mouse HCC bone metastasis model by using serial intracardiac injection and cell isolation to obtain cells with distinct bone metastasis ability. H19 was highly expressed in these cells and in clinical HCC bone metastasis specimens. Both osteoclastogenesis in vitro and HCC bone metastasis in vivo were promoted by H19 overexpression, whereas these processes were suppressed by H19 knockdown. H19 overexpression attenuated p38 phosphorylation and further down-regulated the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG), also known as osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor. However, up-regulated OPG expression as well as suppressed osteoclastogenesis caused by H19 knockdown were recovered by p38 interference, indicating that p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-OPG contributed to H19-promoted HCC bone metastasis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that H19 inhibited the expression of OPG by binding with protein phosphatase 1 catalytic subunit alpha (PPP1CA), which dephosphorylates p38. SB-203580-mediated inactivation of p38MAPK reversed the down-regulation of HCC bone metastasis caused by H19 knockdown in vivo. Additionally, H19 enhanced cell migration and invasion by up-regulating zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 through the sequestration of microRNA (miR) 200b-3p. CONCLUSIONS H19 plays a critical role in HCC bone metastasis by reducing OPG expression, which is mediated by the PPP1CA-induced inactivation of the p38MAPK pathway; and H19 also functions as a sponge for miR-200b-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Huang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Chu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Junnan Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaolong Tan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingyuan Wen
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Sha Liu
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingyu Liao
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Hou
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zeyang Ding
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhanguo Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Shasha Song
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Caihong Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinming Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinical Medical Research Center of Hepatic Surgery at Hubei Province, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
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20
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Åsenius F, Danson AF, Marzi SJ. DNA methylation in human sperm: a systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 26:841-873. [PMID: 32790874 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies in non-human mammals suggest that environmental factors can influence spermatozoal DNA methylation, and some research suggests that spermatozoal DNA methylation is also implicated in conditions such as subfertility and imprinting disorders in the offspring. Together with an increased availability of cost-effective methods of interrogating DNA methylation, this premise has led to an increasing number of studies investigating the DNA methylation landscape of human spermatozoa. However, how the human spermatozoal DNA methylome is influenced by environmental factors is still unclear, as is the role of human spermatozoal DNA methylation in subfertility and in influencing offspring health. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this systematic review was to critically appraise the quality of the current body of literature on DNA methylation in human spermatozoa, summarize current knowledge and generate recommendations for future research. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases was conducted using the search terms 'semen' OR 'sperm' AND 'DNA methylation'. Publications from 1 January 2003 to 2 March 2020 that studied human sperm and were written in English were included. Studies that used sperm DNA methylation to develop methodologies or forensically identify semen were excluded, as were reviews, commentaries, meta-analyses or editorial texts. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) criteria were used to objectively evaluate quality of evidence in each included publication. OUTCOMES The search identified 446 records, of which 135 were included in the systematic review. These 135 studies were divided into three groups according to area of research; 56 studies investigated the influence of spermatozoal DNA methylation on male fertility and abnormal semen parameters, 20 studies investigated spermatozoal DNA methylation in pregnancy outcomes including offspring health and 59 studies assessed the influence of environmental factors on spermatozoal DNA methylation. Findings from studies that scored as 'high' and 'moderate' quality of evidence according to GRADE criteria were summarized. We found that male subfertility and abnormal semen parameters, in particular oligozoospermia, appear to be associated with abnormal spermatozoal DNA methylation of imprinted regions. However, no specific DNA methylation signature of either subfertility or abnormal semen parameters has been convincingly replicated in genome-scale, unbiased analyses. Furthermore, although findings require independent replication, current evidence suggests that the spermatozoal DNA methylome is influenced by cigarette smoking, advanced age and environmental pollutants. Importantly however, from a clinical point of view, there is no convincing evidence that changes in spermatozoal DNA methylation influence pregnancy outcomes or offspring health. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although it appears that the human sperm DNA methylome can be influenced by certain environmental and physiological traits, no findings have been robustly replicated between studies. We have generated a set of recommendations that would enhance the reliability and robustness of findings of future analyses of the human sperm methylome. Such studies will likely require multicentre collaborations to reach appropriate sample sizes, and should incorporate phenotype data in more complex statistical models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy F Danson
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sarah J Marzi
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK.,Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
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21
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Identifying an lncRNA-Related ceRNA Network to Reveal Novel Targets for a Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10050432. [PMID: 34068010 PMCID: PMC8152267 DOI: 10.3390/biology10050432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary The exact functions and molecular mechanism of lncRNAs, acting as competitive endogenous RNAs in a cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, remain unexplored. The present study was conducted to identify the differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs and establish the lncRNA-related competing endogenous RNA networks associated with a cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. A competing endogenous RNA network consisting of 137 miRNA-lncRNA and 221 miRNA-mRNA pairs was constructed. As for the functional analysis of the mRNAs in the network, a FoxO signaling pathway, an autophagy and cellular senescence were the top enrichment terms based on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis. We identified five core mRNAs and built a core mRNA-associated competing endogenous RNA network. Finally, one lncRNA HLA-F-AS1 and three mRNAs named AGO4, E2F1 and CCND1 in the core mRNA-associated competing endogenous RNA network were validated with the same expression patterns. The core mRNAs and their associated lncRNAs may provide potential therapeutic targets for cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. Abstract A cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) derived from keratinocytes is the second most common cause of non-melanoma skin cancer. The accumulation of the mutational burden of genes and cellular DNA damage caused by the risk factors (e.g., exposure to ultraviolet radiation) contribute to the aberrant proliferation of keratinocytes and the formation of a cSCC. A cSCC encompasses a spectrum of diseases that range from recursor actinic keratosis (AK) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ (SCCIS) to invasive cSCCs and further metastatic SCCs. Emerging evidence has revealed that lncRNAs are involved in the biological process of a cSCC. According to the ceRNA regulatory theory, lncRNAs act as natural miRNA sponges and interact with miRNA response elements, thereby regulating the mRNA expression of their down-stream targets. This study was designed to search for the potential lncRNAs that may become potential therapeutic targets or biomarkers of a cSCC. Considering the spirit of the study to be adequately justified, we collected microarray-based datasets of 19 cSCC tissues and 12 normal skin samples from the GEO database (GSE42677 and GSE45164). After screening the differentially expressed genes via a limma package, we identified 24 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and 3221 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs). The miRcode, miRTarBase, miRDB and TargetScan databases were used to predict miRNAs that could interact with DElncRNAs and DEmRNAs. A total of 137 miRNA-lncRNA and 221 miRNA-mRNA pairs were retained in the ceRNA network, consisting of 31 miRNAs, 11 DElncRNAs and 155 DEmRNAs. For the functional analysis, the top enriched biological process was enhancer sequence-specific DNA binding in Gene Ontology (GO) terms. The FoxO signaling pathway, autophagy and cellular senescence were the top enrichment terms based on a Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. The combination of a STRING tool and Cytoscape software (plug-in MCODE) identified five core mRNAs and built a core mRNA-associated ceRNA network. The expression for five identified core mRNAs and their related nine lncRNAs was validated using the external dataset GSE7553. Finally, one lncRNA HLA-F-AS1 and three mRNAs named AGO4, E2F1 and CCND1 were validated with the same expression patterns. We speculate that lncRNA HLA-F-AS1 may sponge miR-17-5p or miR-20b-5p to regulate the expression of CCND1 and E2F1 in the cSCC. The present study may provide potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for cSCC patients.
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22
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Lanzillotti C, De Mattei M, Mazziotta C, Taraballi F, Rotondo JC, Tognon M, Martini F. Long Non-coding RNAs and MicroRNAs Interplay in Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:646032. [PMID: 33898434 PMCID: PMC8063120 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.646032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have gained great attention as epigenetic regulators of gene expression in many tissues. Increasing evidence indicates that lncRNAs, together with microRNAs (miRNAs), play a pivotal role in osteogenesis. While miRNA action mechanism relies mainly on miRNA-mRNA interaction, resulting in suppressed expression, lncRNAs affect mRNA functionality through different activities, including interaction with miRNAs. Recent advances in RNA sequencing technology have improved knowledge into the molecular pathways regulated by the interaction of lncRNAs and miRNAs. This review reports on the recent knowledge of lncRNAs and miRNAs roles as key regulators of osteogenic differentiation. Specifically, we described herein the recent discoveries on lncRNA-miRNA crosstalk during the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow (BM), as well as from different other anatomical regions. The deep understanding of the connection between miRNAs and lncRNAs during the osteogenic differentiation will strongly improve knowledge into the molecular mechanisms of bone growth and development, ultimately leading to discover innovative diagnostic and therapeutic tools for osteogenic disorders and bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Lanzillotti
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica De Mattei
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Taraballi
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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23
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Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Iaquinta MR, Taraballi F, Torreggiani E, Rotondo JC, Otòn-Gonzalez L, Mazzoni E, Frontini F, Bononi I, De Mattei M, Tognon M, Martini F. MicroRNAs Modulate Signaling Pathways in Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2362. [PMID: 33673409 PMCID: PMC7956574 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified in many adult tissues and they have been closely studied in recent years, especially in view of their potential use for treating diseases and damaged tissues and organs. MSCs are capable of self-replication and differentiation into osteoblasts and are considered an important source of cells in tissue engineering for bone regeneration. Several epigenetic factors are believed to play a role in the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, including microRNAs (miRNAs). MiRNAs are small, single-stranded, non-coding RNAs of approximately 22 nucleotides that are able to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis by binding the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) of target mRNAs, which can be subsequently degraded or translationally silenced. MiRNAs control gene expression in osteogenic differentiation by regulating two crucial signaling cascades in osteogenesis: the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and the Wingless/Int-1(Wnt)/β-catenin signaling pathways. This review provides an overview of the miRNAs involved in osteogenic differentiation and how these miRNAs could regulate the expression of target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Maria Rosa Iaquinta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Taraballi
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6565 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Elena Torreggiani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Lucia Otòn-Gonzalez
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Frontini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Monica De Mattei
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 70, Eliporto Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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24
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Saki J, Sabaghan M, Arjmand R, Teimoori A, Rashno M, Saki G, Shojaee S. Curcumin as an indirect methylation inhibitor modulates the effects of Toxoplasma gondii on genes involved in male fertility. EXCLI JOURNAL 2020; 19:1196-1207. [PMID: 33013270 PMCID: PMC7527515 DOI: 10.17179/excli2020-2052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite, which infects warm-blooded mammals, including mice and humans, throughout the world. The negative effects of T. gondii infection on the human reproductive system have been documented, especially in females. However, only few studies have examined the effects of T. gondii infection on the male reproductive system. Previous research shows that T. gondii can induce DNA methylation in some gene promoters, which are key regulators of spermatogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of curcumin on the activity of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), as well as selected genes, involved in spermatogenesis in spermatogenic cells. In the spermatogenic cells exposed to T. gondii, there was a significant increase in DNMT1 and DNMT3A gene expression and a significant reduction in HSPA1A, MTHR, and DAZL gene expression, compared to the controls. The present results showed that curcumin could regulate changes in T. gondii-mediated gene expression. The effect of T. gondii on DNMT activity was also investigated in this study. A 40 % increase in DNMT activity was observed due to T. gondii infection. However, DNMT activity was restored by treatment with 20 μM curcumin for eight hours. The results revealed that T. gondii increases the NF-κB activity, compared to the control group. The increase in NF-κB activity, induced by T. gondii, was inhibited by curcumin. In conclusion, T. gondii, by increasing DNMT expression and activity, leads to an increase in NF-κB activity in cells. On the other hand, curcumin reduced DNA methylation, induced by T. gondii, owing to its NF-κB-inhibiting properties. Therefore, curcumin, as a hypomethylating agent, can be potentially used to alleviate the negative effects of T. gondii on the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasem Saki
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohamad Sabaghan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza Arjmand
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ali Teimoori
- Virology Department, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Rashno
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ghasem Saki
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Physiology Research Center, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Shojaee
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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25
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Vohra M, Sharma AR, Prabhu B N, Rai PS. SNPs in Sites for DNA Methylation, Transcription Factor Binding, and miRNA Targets Leading to Allele-Specific Gene Expression and Contributing to Complex Disease Risk: A Systematic Review. Public Health Genomics 2020; 23:155-170. [PMID: 32966991 DOI: 10.1159/000510253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The complex genetic diversity among human populations results from an assortment of factors acting at various sequential levels, including mutations, population migrations, genetic drift, and selection. Although there are a plethora of DNA sequence variations identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS), the challenge remains to explain the mechanisms underlying interindividual phenotypic disparity accounting for disease susceptibility. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) present in the sites for DNA methylation, transcription factor (TF) binding, or miRNA targets can alter the gene expression. The systematic review aimed to evaluate the complex crosstalk among SNPs, miRNAs, DNA methylation, and TFs for complex multifactorial disease risk. METHODS PubMed and Scopus databases were used from inception until May 15, 2019. Initially, screening of articles involved studies assessing the interaction of SNPs with TFs, DNA methylation, or miRNAs resulting in allele-specific gene expression in complex multifactorial diseases. We also included the studies which provided experimental validation of the interaction of SNPs with each of these factors. The results from various studies on multifactorial diseases were assessed. RESULTS A total of 11 articles for SNPs interacting with DNA methylation, 30 articles for SNPs interacting with TFs, and 11 articles for SNPs in miRNA binding sites were selected. The interactions of SNPs with epigenetic factors were found to be implicated in different types of cancers, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and asthma. CONCLUSION The systematic review provides evidence for the interplay between genetic and epigenetic risk factors through allele-specific gene expression in various complex multifactorial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manik Vohra
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Anu Radha Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Navya Prabhu B
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Padmalatha S Rai
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India,
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26
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Malagutti N, Rotondo JC, Cerritelli L, Melchiorri C, De Mattei M, Selvatici R, Oton-Gonzalez L, Stomeo F, Mazzoli M, Borin M, Mores B, Ciorba A, Tognon M, Pelucchi S, Martini F. High Human Papillomavirus DNA loads in Inflammatory Middle Ear Diseases. Pathogens 2020; 9:224. [PMID: 32197385 PMCID: PMC7157545 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9030224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Previous studies reported human papillomaviruses (HPVs) in middle ear tumors, whereas these viruses have been poorly investigated in chronic inflammatory middle ear diseases. We investigated HPVs in non-tumor middle ear diseases, including chronic otitis media (COM). Methods. COM specimens (n = 52), including chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) (n =38) and cholesteatoma (COMC) (n = 14), as well as normal middle ear (NME) specimens (n = 56) were analyzed. HPV sequences and DNA loads were analyzed by quantitative-PCR. HPV genotyping was performed by direct sequencing. Results. HPV DNA was detected in 23% (12/52) of COM and in 30.4% (17/56) of NME (p > 0.05). Specifically, HPV DNA sequences were found in 26.3% (10/38) of CSOM and in 14.3% (2/14) of COMC (p > 0.05). Interestingly, the HPV DNA load was higher in COMC (mean 7.47 copy/cell) than in CSOM (mean 1.02 copy/cell) and NME (mean 1.18 copy/cell) (P = 0.03 and P = 0.017 versus CSOM and NME, respectively). HPV16 and HPV18 were the main genotypes detected in COMC, CSOM and NME. Conclusions. These data suggest that HPV may infect the middle ear mucosa, whereas HPV-positive COMCs are associated with higher viral DNA loads as compared to NME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Malagutti
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Luca Cerritelli
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Claudio Melchiorri
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Monica De Mattei
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Rita Selvatici
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Lucia Oton-Gonzalez
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Francesco Stomeo
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Manuela Mazzoli
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Michela Borin
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Beatrice Mores
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Andrea Ciorba
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Stefano Pelucchi
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
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Momeni A, Najafipour R, Hamta A, Jahani S, Moghbelinejad S. Expression and Methylation Pattern of hsa-miR-34 Family in Sperm Samples of Infertile Men. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:301-308. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00025-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Esmaeili M, Taheri M. H19 lncRNA: Roles in tumorigenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 123:109774. [PMID: 31855739 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
H19 is a long non-coding RNA [lncRNA] which was firstly described as an oncofetal transcript. The imprinted gene is normally expressed from the maternal allele. However, this pattern of imprinting is dysregulated in several cancers leading to aberrant up-regulation of H19 in malignant tissues. Several studies have utilized this aberrant expression pattern to find specific biomarkers for detection of cancer in tumoral tissues or peripheral blood. Moreover, single nucleotide polymorphisms within H19 have been associated with risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer, bladder cancer, gastric cancer and colorectal cancer. Taken together, H19 is regarded as a biomarker for cancer and a putative therapeutic target in these human disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadhosein Esmaeili
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Rotondo JC, Borghi A, Selvatici R, Mazzoni E, Bononi I, Corazza M, Kussini J, Montinari E, Gafà R, Tognon M, Martini F. Association of Retinoic Acid Receptor β Gene With Onset and Progression of Lichen Sclerosus-Associated Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma. JAMA Dermatol 2019; 154:819-823. [PMID: 29898214 PMCID: PMC6128494 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2018.1373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Importance Molecular alterations in lichen sclerosus-associated vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (LS-VSCC) are largely unknown. Objective To determine whether the retinoic acid receptor β (RARβ) tumor-suppressor gene is involved in the onset and/or progression of LS-VSCC. Design, Setting, and Participants The case-control study, conducted at University-Hospital of Ferrara, Italy, included 20 LS-VSCC (mean [SD] age, 75 [3] years) and 20 cancer-associated vulvar LS (caVLS; mean [SD] age, 62 [11] years) formalin-fixed embedded tissue specimens, 20 cancer-free vulvar LS (cfVLS), and 20 normal skin fresh specimens from diagnostic biopsies and women surgically treated for nonmalignant skin lesions, respectively. RARβ gene expression and promoter methylation were investigated in LS-VSCC and caVLS adjacent to VSCC specimens, and in cfVLS and normal skin specimens, as controls, by RT-Q real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis, and sequencing of PCR-amplified bisulfite-treated DNA. c-Jun expression, an RARβ pathway-related gene, was also investigated. Main Outcomes and Measures RARβ expression, correlation with its promoter methylation and c-Jun expression, and association with onset or progression of LS-VSCC. Results In LS-VSCC, RARβ messenger RNA was 3.4-, 3.6-, and 4.8-fold lower than in caVLS (P = .001), cfVLS (P = .005), and normal skin (P < .001), respectively. The RARβ mRNA levels were similar in caVLS, cfVLS, and normal skin. The RARβ promoter was hypermethylated in 18 (90%) of 20 LS-VSCC, 11 (55%) of 20 cfVLS, 10 (50%) of 20 caVLS, and 5 (25%) of 20 in the normal skin group. The degree of methylation of RARβ promoter was higher in LS-VSCC, ranging from 5 to 9 (full promoter methylation) CpGs methylated, than in caVLS (P = .02), cfVLS (P = .03), or normal skin (P < .001), which was up to 5 CpGs methylated. Importantly, 0 of 8 LS-VSCC with 5 to 6 CpGs methylated and 5 (63%) of 8 LS-VSCC with 7 to 8 CpGs methylated were from patients with lymph node metastasis at diagnosis, respectively, whereas there were 2 of 2 (100%) LS-VSCC samples with 9 CpG methylated from patients with lymph node metastasis at diagnosis and subsequent recurrence. In LS-VSCC c-Jun mRNA was 4.3-, 1.4-, and 2.6-fold higher than in caVLS (P < .001), cfVLS (P = .001), and normal skin (P < .001), respectively. The expression of c-Jun was similar in caVLS, cfVLS, and normal skin. Conclusions and Relevance Hypermethylation-induced RARβ down-expression was associated with LS-VSCC and correlates with the upregulation of c-Jun. The degree of methylation of RARβ promoter increased with the malignancy of LS-VSCC. Therefore, RARβ gene dysregulation may play a role in progression of LS-VSCC, and RARβ promoter methylation status may be used as a prognostic marker in clinical treatment of patients with LS-VSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Borghi
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Savonarola 9, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rita Selvatici
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Corazza
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Savonarola 9, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jacqueline Kussini
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Savonarola 9, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Montinari
- Section of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara and S. Anna University Hospital Via Aldo Moro, 8, 44124 Cona, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Gafà
- Section of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara and S. Anna University Hospital Via Aldo Moro, 8, 44124 Cona, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 64/B, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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El Khoury D, Fayjaloun S, Nassar M, Sahakian J, Aad PY. Updates on the Effect of Mycotoxins on Male Reproductive Efficiency in Mammals. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E515. [PMID: 31484408 PMCID: PMC6784030 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11090515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycotoxins are ubiquitous and unavoidable harmful fungal products with the ability to cause disease in both animals and humans, and are found in almost all types of foods, with a greater prevalence in hot humid environments. These mycotoxins vary greatly in structure and biochemical effects; therefore, by better understanding the toxicological and pathological aspects of mycotoxins, we can be better equipped to fight the diseases, as well as the biological and economic devastations, they induce. Multiple studies point to the association between a recent increase in male infertility and the increased occurrence of these mycotoxins in the environment. Furthermore, understanding how mycotoxins may induce an accumulation of epimutations during parental lifetimes can shed light on their implications with respect to fertility and reproductive efficiency. By acknowledging the diversity of mycotoxin molecular function and mode of action, this review aims to address the current limited knowledge on the effects of these chemicals on spermatogenesis and the various endocrine and epigenetics patterns associated with their disruptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diala El Khoury
- Department of Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Notre Dame University-Louaize, Zouk Mosbeh 2207, Lebanon
| | - Salma Fayjaloun
- Department of Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Notre Dame University-Louaize, Zouk Mosbeh 2207, Lebanon
| | - Marc Nassar
- Department of Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Notre Dame University-Louaize, Zouk Mosbeh 2207, Lebanon
| | - Joseph Sahakian
- Department of Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Notre Dame University-Louaize, Zouk Mosbeh 2207, Lebanon
| | - Pauline Y Aad
- Department of Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Notre Dame University-Louaize, Zouk Mosbeh 2207, Lebanon.
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Rotondo JC, Mazzoni E, Bononi I, Tognon M, Martini F. Association Between Simian Virus 40 and Human Tumors. Front Oncol 2019; 9:670. [PMID: 31403031 PMCID: PMC6669359 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a small DNA tumor virus of monkey origin. This polyomavirus was administered to human populations mainly through contaminated polio vaccines, which were produced in naturally infected SV40 monkey cells. Previous molecular biology and recent immunological assays have indicated that SV40 is spreading in human populations, independently from earlier SV40-contaminated vaccines. SV40 DNA sequences have been detected at a higher prevalence in specific human cancer specimens, such as the brain and bone tumors, malignant pleural mesotheliomas, and lymphoproliferative disorders, compared to the corresponding normal tissues/specimens. However, other investigations, which reported negative data, did not confirm an association between SV40 and human tumors. To circumvent the controversies, which have arisen because of these molecular biology studies, immunological researches with newly developed indirect ELISA tests were carried out in serum samples from patients affected by the same kind of tumors as mentioned above. These innovative indirect ELISAs employ synthetic peptides as mimotopes/specific SV40 antigens. SV40 mimotopes do not cross-react with the homologous human polyomaviruses, BKPyV, and JCPyV. Immunological data obtained from indirect ELISAs, using SV40 mimotopes, employed to analyze serum samples from oncological patients, have indicated that these sera had a higher prevalence of antibodies against SV40 compared to healthy subjects. The main data on (i) the biology and genetics of SV40; (ii) the epidemiology of SV40 in the general population, (iii) the mechanisms of SV40 transformation; (iv) the putative role of SV40 in the onset/progression of specific human tumors, and (v) its association with other human diseases are reported in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Tian M, Liu L, Zhang J, Huang Q, Shen H. Positive association of low-level environmental phthalate exposure with sperm motility was mediated by DNA methylation: A pilot study. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 220:459-467. [PMID: 30594797 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.12.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that phthalate exposures may affect human semen quality. Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation might be linked chemical exposure and spermatogenesis epigenetic reprogramming. In the present study, we investigated associations between phthalate exposures, DNA methylation and sperm quality in undergoing fertility assessment male population. Urine was used for phthalate exposures monitoring, six selected metabolites (i.e., monomethyl phthalate (MMP), monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) and mono (2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP)) were measured by using HPLC-MS/MS. Sperm quality parameters were determined by computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA). Sperm DNA methylation patterns (long interspersed nuclear element-1(LINE-1), H19 and LIT1) were analysed employing high-melting resolution (HRM) PCR. Urinary MMP, MEHP, MEOHP, sum of DEHP metabolites (∑DEHP) and sum of selected phthalates metabolites (∑PAEs) were significantly positively associated with sperm motility. Sperm LINE-1 DNA methylation were found to be negatively associated with ∑DEHP exposure and sperm quality (ejaculate volume, total sperm number and motility). Epigenetic modification LINE-1 DNA methylation demonstrated mediating effects in association between DEHP exposure and sperm motility, and 20.7% of the association was mediated by serum LIEN-1 DNA methylation. These results extend the previous studies in association between phthalate exposures and classical semen parameters, mainly of inverse association, and sperm DNA methylation may be linked phthalate exposures and male reproductive health outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiping Tian
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Liangpo Liu
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Heqing Shen
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China.
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Contini C, Rotondo JC, Magagnoli F, Maritati M, Seraceni S, Graziano A, Poggi A, Capucci R, Vesce F, Tognon M, Martini F. Investigation on silent bacterial infections in specimens from pregnant women affected by spontaneous miscarriage. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:100-107. [PMID: 30078192 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Miscarriage is one of the main complications occurring in pregnancy. The association between adverse pregnancy outcomes and silent bacterial infections has been poorly investigated. Ureaplasma parvum and urealiticum, Mycoplasma genitalium and hominis and Chlamydia trachomatis DNA sequences have been investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods in chorionic villi tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from females with spontaneous abortion (SA, n = 100) and females who underwent voluntary interruption of pregnancy (VI, n = 100). U. parvum DNA was detected in 14% and 15% of SA and VI, respectively, with a mean of bacterial DNA load of 1.3 × 10-1 copy/cell in SA and 2.8 × 10 -3 copy/cell in VI; U. urealiticum DNA was detected in 3% and 2% of SA and VI specimens, respectively, with a mean DNA load of 3.3 × 10-3 copy/cell in SA and 1.6 × 10-3 copy/cell in VI; M. hominis DNA was detected in 5% of SA specimens with a DNA load of 1.3 × 10-4 copy/cell and in 6% of VI specimens with a DNA load of 1.4 × 10-4 copy/cell; C. trachomatis DNA was detected in 3% of SA specimens with a DNA load of 1.5 × 10-4 copy/cell and in 4% of VI specimens with a mean DNA load of 1.4 × 10-4 copy/cell. In PBMCs from the SA and VI groups, Ureaplasma spp, Mycoplasma spp and C. trachomatis DNAs were detected with a prevalence of 1%-3%. Bacteria were investigated, for the first time, by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) in chorionic villi tissues and PBMCs from women affected by SA and VI. These data may help to understand the role and our knowledge of the silent infections in SA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Contini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John C Rotondo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Magagnoli
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silva Seraceni
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angela Graziano
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alice Poggi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Capucci
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fortunato Vesce
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Peng H, Zhao P, Liu J, Zhang J, Zhang J, Wang Y, Wu L, Song M, Wang W. Novel Epigenomic Biomarkers of Male Infertility Identified by Methylation Patterns of CpG Sites Within Imprinting Control Regions of H19 and SNRPN Genes. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2018; 22:354-364. [PMID: 29708855 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2018.0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is an important global health burden that can benefit from novel biomarkers and diagnostics innovation. Aberrant methylation of the imprinted genes H19 and SNRPN (small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N) in sperm DNA has been implicated in abnormal sperm parameters and male infertility. However, whether certain methylation patterns of one or multiple CpG sites within an imprinted gene are pathological for multiple sperm defects remains poorly understood. To examine the diagnostic potential of certain methylation patterns of CpG sites for multiphenotype defects in human sperm, the sperm DNA methylation patterns of individual CpG sites within imprinting control regions (ICRs) of imprinted genes H19 and SNRPN were measured by bisulfite pyrosequencing in a Han Chinese population sample: 39 oligoasthenozoospermia (OA) patients, 36 asthenoteratozoospermia (AT) patients, and 50 normozoospermia (N) controls. A partial least squares discriminant analysis model was built with the CpG sites as independent variables. Among the 16 CpG sites screened, the methylation patterns of eight CpG sites within H19-ICR (CpG sites 1, 6-9, 12 and 15-16), and eight CpG sites within SNRPN-ICR (CpG sites 2, 5-6, 8-10, 13, and 16) correctly classified 74.4% and 72.0% of the samples in terms of male fertile status, respectively. Furthermore, by combination of these 16 selected CpG sites within ICRs of H19 and SNRPN, 88.0% of the samples could be successfully classified. Our study demonstrates that methylation profiles of CpG sites within ICRs of imprinted genes H19 and SNRPN may potentially serve as epigenomic biomarkers for assessment of infertility in men with multiple sperm defects. Further studies in independent population samples are called for diagnostic significance of methylation patterns of CpG sites within imprinted genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongli Peng
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China
| | - Panlin Zhao
- 3 Air Force General Hospital , PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaonan Liu
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China
| | - Jinxia Zhang
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China
| | - Youxin Wang
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China
| | - Lijuan Wu
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China
| | - Manshu Song
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China .,4 School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University , Perth, Australia
| | - Wei Wang
- 1 School of Public Health, Capital Medical University , Beijing, China .,2 Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology , Beijing, China .,4 School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University , Perth, Australia .,5 School of Public Health, Taishan Medical University , Taian, China
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Xia L, Hu Y, Gu T, Wang L, Tian Z. Promoter hypermethylation may contribute to E‑cadherin repression in the human salivary carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma. Int J Oncol 2017; 52:496-504. [PMID: 29207084 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2017.4210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of promoter methylation in the inactivation of E‑cadherin (CDH1) in salivary carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the role and potential clinical implications of CDH1 promoter methylation in salivary CXPA. The CDH1 promoter methylation status was determined by bisulfite sequencing PCR in 37 primary CXPA tissues and 2 CXPA cell lines. E‑cadherin expression levels were determined by immunohistochemical analysis of each tumor. E‑cadherin protein levels and CDH1 mRNA levels were examined by immunoblotting and quantitative real-time PCR, respectively, in 2 CXPA cell lines. Cells were treated with 5‑Aza-dC or TGF‑β1 to test the influence of promoter methylation on CDH1 mRNA and protein expression. Associations between CDH1 molecular alterations and patients' clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis were statistically evaluated. CDH1 promoter hypermethylation was detected in 21 of 37 tumors (56.76%). Of these 37 tumors, 13 tumors (35.14%) showed low E‑cadherin expression. Tumors that had CDH1 promoter methylation had a histological tendency toward luminal differentiation (P=0.004), high tumor grade (P=0.005), high T stage (P=0.024) and high TNM stage (P=0.038) compared with tumors that did not. The two CXPA cell lines exhibited an inverse relationship between CDH1 promoter methylation status and CDH1 mRNA and protein expression. Treatment of the hypermethylated cell line with 5‑Aza-dC restored CDH1 mRNA and E‑cadherin protein expression. The induction of hypermethylation by TGF‑β1 resulted in the repression of CDH1 mRNA and protein expression. CDH1 is commonly silenced in CXPA through promoter methylation. CDH1 methylation is closely related to tumor cell differentiation, histological grade, lymph node metastasis and advanced TNM stage, indicating that CDH1 methylation may play a role in the initiation and progression of CXPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Xia
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Yuhua Hu
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Ting Gu
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Lizhen Wang
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Tian
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
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Hao Y, Wang G, Lin C, Li D, Ji Z, Gao F, Li Z, Liu D, Wang D. Valproic Acid Induces Decreased Expression of H19 Promoting Cell Apoptosis in A549 Cells. DNA Cell Biol 2017; 36:428-435. [PMID: 28328238 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2016.3542] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that the imprinted gene, H19, plays a crucial role in the development of cancer. In the present study, we attempted to treat the abnormal expression and methylation status of H19 in A549 cells using valproic acid (VPA), ascorbic acid (Vc), and 5-aza-Cytidine (5-Aza). The results suggested that VPA administration could alter the expression pattern of H19, while the hypomethylation status of H19 DMR was unchanged. Furthermore, overexpression of HDAC1 and DNMT1 was associated with decreased expression of H19 in VPA-treated cells. Western blot results showed that the expression of p53 protein was increased following treatment with VPA. In addition, we also investigated cellular apoptosis and the cell cycle of treated cells. Flow cytometry data indicated that VPA could increase the occurrence of cell apoptosis in A549 cells. Taken together, our results suggest that H19 expression was suppressed by VPA through HDAC1 and DNMT1 and decreased H19 expression correlated with cell apoptosis in A549 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Hao
- 1 Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- 1 Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Chao Lin
- 2 Department of Emergency, First Hospital, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Dong Li
- 3 Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Zhonghao Ji
- 1 Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Fei Gao
- 1 Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Zhanjun Li
- 1 Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Dianfeng Liu
- 1 Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Dongxu Wang
- 1 Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Science, Jilin University , Changchun, China
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Rotondo JC, Candian T, Selvatici R, Mazzoni E, Bonaccorsi G, Greco P, Tognon M, Martini F. Tracing Males From Different Continents by Genotyping JC Polyomavirus in DNA From Semen Samples. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:982-985. [PMID: 27859215 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The human JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) is an ubiquitous viral agent infecting approximately 60% of humans. Recently, JCPyV sequences have been detected in semen samples. The aim of this investigation was to test whether semen JCPyV genotyping can be employed to trace the origin continent of males. Semen DNA samples (n = 170) from males of different Continents were investigated by PCR for the polymorphic JCPyV viral capsid protein 1 (VP1) sequences, followed by DNA sequencing. JCPyV sequences were detected with an overall prevalence of 27.6% (47/170). DNA sequencing revealed that European males carried JCPyV types 1A (71.4%), 4 (11.4%), 2B (2.9%), 2D1 (2.9%), and 3A (2.9%). Asians JCPyV type 2D1 (66.7%) and Africans JCPyV types 3A (33.3%) and 1A (33.3%). In 10.6% of males, two different JCPyV genotypes were detected, suggesting that the second JCPyV genotype was acquired in the destination country. This study indicates that the majority of semen samples found to be JCPyV-positive, were infected with the JCPyV genotype found in the geographic area of male origin. Therefore, semen JCPyV genotyping could be employed to trace the origin continent of males. Our findings could be applied to forensic investigations, in case of for instance sexual crimes. Indeed, JCPyV genotyping should enable investigators to make additional detailed profiling of the offender. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 982-985, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology Experimental Biology, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tommaso Candian
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rita Selvatici
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology Experimental Biology, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Bonaccorsi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pantaleo Greco
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology Experimental Biology, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology Experimental Biology, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Ferrara, Italy
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Karaca MZ, Konac E, Yurteri B, Bozdag G, Sogutdelen E, Bilen CY. Association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR
) gene promoter hypermethylation and the risk of idiopathic male infertility. Andrologia 2016; 49. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. Z. Karaca
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics; Faculty of Medicine; Gazi University; Besevler Ankara Turkey
| | - E. Konac
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics; Faculty of Medicine; Gazi University; Besevler Ankara Turkey
| | - B. Yurteri
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics; Faculty of Medicine; Gazi University; Besevler Ankara Turkey
| | - G. Bozdag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine; Hacettepe University; Sıhhiye Ankara Turkey
| | - E. Sogutdelen
- Department of Urology; Faculty of Medicine; Hacettepe University; Sıhhiye Ankara Turkey
| | - C. Y. Bilen
- Department of Urology; Faculty of Medicine; Hacettepe University; Sıhhiye Ankara Turkey
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Gunes S, Arslan MA, Hekim GNT, Asci R. The role of epigenetics in idiopathic male infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:553-569. [PMID: 26941097 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0682-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a complex disorder with multiple genetic and environmental causes. Although some specific mutations have been identified, other factors responsible for sperm defects remain largely unknown. Despite considerable efforts to identify the pathophysiology of the disease, we cannot explain the underlying mechanisms of approximately half of infertility cases. This study reviews current data on epigenetic regulation and idiopathic male infertility. Recent data have shown an association between epigenetic modifications and idiopathic infertility. In this regard, epigenetics has emerged as one of the promising research areas in understanding male infertility. Many studies have indicated that epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation in imprinted and developmental genes, histone tail modifications and short non-coding RNAs in spermatozoa may have a role in idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Alper Arslan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | | | - Ramazan Asci
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
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Zhao L, Zhang S, An X, Tan W, Tang B, Zhang X, Li Z. Sodium Fluoride Affects DNA Methylation of Imprinted Genes in Mouse Early Embryos. Cytogenet Genome Res 2015; 147:41-7. [DOI: 10.1159/000442067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fluorine is reported to affect embryonic development, but the underlining mechanism is unclear. The modification of DNA methylation of the H19 and Peg3 genes is important in embryonic development. Therefore, the effect of fluorine on methylation of H19 and Peg3 during early mouse embryos was studied. It was shown that the H19 gene was significantly downmethylated in E2.5, E3.5, and E4.5 embryos from pregnant mice treated with 120 mg/l NaF in drinking water for 48 h. But methylation of both H19 and Peg3 genes was disrupted when the parent male mice were treated with NaF for 35 days. H19 DNA methylation decreased significantly, while Peg3 was almost completely methylated. However, when pregnant mice, mated with NaF-treated male mice, were again treated with NaF for 48 h, either H19 or Peg3 methylation in the embryos decreased significantly. In addition, the mRNA level of H19 considerably increased in E3.5 and E4.5 embryos from NaF-treated pregnant mice. Further, the expression of DNMT1 decreased significantly after NaF treatment. Conclusively, we demonstrated that fluorine may adversely affect early embryonic development by disrupting the methylation of H19 and Peg3 through downregulation of DNMT1.
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Sakian S, Louie K, Wong EC, Havelock J, Kashyap S, Rowe T, Taylor B, Ma S. Altered gene expression of H19 and IGF2 in placentas from ART pregnancies. Placenta 2015; 36:1100-5. [PMID: 26386650 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study is to determine whether the gene expression and associated DNA methylation regulation of H19 and IGF2 are altered in placentas conceived by assisted reproductive technologies (ART) compared to natural conceptions. METHODS 113 pregnancies were recruited resulting in 119 placentas (83 singletons and 36 twins), where 56 were conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF), 41 via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and 22 naturally. Regulation of imprinting of H19 and IGF2 was determined by the DNA methylation status at three CpG sites within the H19 imprinting control region 1 (ICR1) using bisulphite pyrosequencing. Expression of H19 and IGF2 in 45 of these placentas (17 IVF, 14 ICSI, and 14 NC) was measured by determining the relative mRNA transcript levels using RT-qPCR in placental villi. RESULTS Placental weight and birth weight were not significantly different between groups. H19 expression was significantly increased in both IVF and ICSI placentas when compared to controls (1.8 and 1.9 fold higher, respectively). Conversely, IGF2 was significantly decreased in both ART groups (0.8 and 0.7 fold lower, respectively). Mean DNA methylation at ICR1 was found to be similar between all groups. No correlation was found between DNA methylation at ICR1 and expression of either gene. However, a significant inverse relationship was found between H19 and IGF2 expression. CONCLUSION We provide evidence of altered H19 and IGF2 expression in ART placentas. The altered expression pattern may suggest a loss of imprinting on the paternal allele. Furthermore, these alterations may not be entirely associated with DNA methylation at ICR1. We show further indirect evidence of the H19-IGF2 inverse expression pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Sakian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kenny Louie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Edgar Chan Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jon Havelock
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sonya Kashyap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Timothy Rowe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Beth Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sai Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Epigenetics has emerged in recent years as one of the most important biological mechanisms linking exposures across the life course to long-term health. This article reviews recent developments in our understanding of the metabolic and genetic determinants of epigenetic variation in human populations. RECENT FINDINGS Epigenetic status is influenced by a range of environmental exposures, including diet and nutrition, social status, the early emotional environment, and infertility and its treatment. The period around conception is particularly sensitive to environmental exposures with evidence for effects on epigenetic imprinting within the offspring. Epigenetic status is also influenced by genotype, and genetic variation in methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase, and the DNA methytransferase and ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase proteins has been linked to the epigenetic status, biological function and disease. SUMMARY Epigenetics is at the heart of a series of feedback loops linking the environment to the human genome in a way that allows crosstalk between the genome and the environment it exists within. It offers the potential for modification of adverse epigenetic states resulting from events/exposures at earlier life stages. We need to better understand the nutritional programming of epigenetic states, the persistence of these marks in time and their effect on biological function and health in current and future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Haggarty
- Rowett Institute of Nutrition & Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
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Yao W, Li Y, Li B, Luo H, Xu H, Pan Z, Xie Z, Li Q. Epigenetic regulation of bovine spermatogenic cell-specific gene boule. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128250. [PMID: 26030766 PMCID: PMC4451259 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-primate mammals have two deleted azoospermia (DAZ) family genes, DAZL and Boule; genes in this family encode RNA-binding proteins essential for male fertility in diverse animals. Testicular DAZL transcription is regulated by epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation. However, nothing is known about the epigenetic regulation of Boule. Here, we explored the role of DNA methylation in the regulation of the bovine Boule (bBoule) gene. We found that a long CpG island (CGI) in the bBoule promoter was hypermethylated in the testes of cattle-yak hybrids with low bBoule expression, whereas cattle had relatively low methylation levels (P < 0.01), and there was no difference in the methylation level in the short CGI of the gene body between cattle and cattle-yak hybrids (P > 0.05). We identified a 107 bp proximal core promoter region of bBoule. Intriguingly, the differences in the methylation level between cattle and cattle-yak hybrids were larger in the core promoter than outside the core promoter. An in vitro methylation assay showed that the core promoter activity of bBoule decreased significantly after M.SssI methylase treatment (P < 0.01). We also observed dramatically increased bBoule transcription in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) after treatment with the methyltransferase inhibitor 5-Aza-dC. Taken together, our results establish that methylation status of the core promoter might be involved in testicular bBoule transcription, and may provide new insight into the epigenetic regulation of DAZ family genes and clinical insights regarding male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Yao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yinxia Li
- Institute of Animal Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Bojiang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hua Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hongtao Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zengxiang Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhuang Xie
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Qifa Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to highlight the most important advances in the field of genetics of male infertility, with particular attention to primary articles dealing with the identification of new genetic and epigenetic markers that could be translated into clinical practice in the near future. RECENT FINDINGS Copy number variations (CNVs) of the Y chromosome (gr/gr) deletions could already be included in the diagnostic workup of infertile men, although confirming studies are needed for CNVs on the X chromosome, as well for polymorphisms in some autosomal genes and telomere length in sperm. Methods need to be further standardized before sperm DNA analysis could be included in clinical practice, although they can help in defining some forms of idiopathic infertility. Epigenetic biomarkers are potentially important in elucidating the cause of idiopathic male infertility. Polymorphisms in FSHB/FSHR could be used in clinical practice to diagnose some forms of male infertility and as a pharmacogenetic marker for FSH treatment. SUMMARY New genetic causes and genetic risk factors have been identified in recent years and new technologies for genomic and postgenomic analyses (arrays, next-generation sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, global methylome analysis and so on) are promising research fields. It is presumed that some of these genetic and epigenetic tests will be introduced in clinical practice in the near future.
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