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Heuer SE, Bloss EB, Howell GR. Strategies to dissect microglia-synaptic interactions during aging and in Alzheimer's disease. Neuropharmacology 2024; 254:109987. [PMID: 38705570 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Age is the largest risk factor for developing Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder that causes a progressive and severe dementia. The underlying cause of cognitive deficits seen in AD is thought to be the disconnection of neural circuits that control memory and executive functions. Insight into the mechanisms by which AD diverges from normal aging will require identifying precisely which cellular events are driven by aging and which are impacted by AD-related pathologies. Since microglia, the brain-resident macrophages, are known to have critical roles in the formation and maintenance of neural circuits through synaptic pruning, they are well-positioned to modulate synaptic connectivity in circuits sensitive to aging or AD. In this review, we provide an overview of the current state of the field and on emerging technologies being employed to elucidate microglia-synaptic interactions in aging and AD. We also discuss the importance of leveraging genetic diversity to study how these interactions are shaped across more realistic contexts. We propose that these approaches will be essential to define specific aging- and disease-relevant trajectories for more personalized therapeutics aimed at reducing the effects of age or AD pathologies on the brain. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Microglia".
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Heuer
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Erik B Bloss
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME, 04469, USA.
| | - Gareth R Howell
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME, 04469, USA.
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2
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Kaushal JB, Takkar S, Batra SK, Siddiqui JA. Diverse landscape of genetically engineered mouse models: Genomic and molecular insights into prostate cancer. Cancer Lett 2024; 593:216954. [PMID: 38735382 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a significant health concern for men worldwide and is particularly prevalent in the United States. It is a complex disease presenting different molecular subtypes and varying degrees of aggressiveness. Transgenic/genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) greatly enhanced our understanding of the intricate molecular processes that underlie PCa progression and have offered valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets for this disease. The integration of whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing, along with expression profiling, has played a pivotal role in advancing GEMMs by facilitating the identification of genetic alterations driving PCa development. This review focuses on genetically modified mice classified into the first and second generations of PCa models. We summarize whether models created by manipulating the function of specific genes replicate the consequences of genomic alterations observed in human PCa, including early and later disease stages. We discuss cases where GEMMs did not fully exhibit the expected human PCa phenotypes and possible causes of the failure. Here, we summarize the comprehensive understanding, recent advances, strengths and limitations of the GEMMs in advancing our insights into PCa, offering genetic and molecular perspectives for developing novel GEMM models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti B Kaushal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Simran Takkar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
| | - Jawed A Siddiqui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
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3
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Li QQ, Guo M, He GH, Xi KH, Zhou MY, Shi RY, Chen GQ. VEGF-induced Nrdp1 deficiency in vascular endothelial cells promotes cancer metastasis by degrading vascular basement membrane. Oncogene 2024; 43:1836-1851. [PMID: 38654108 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03038-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells (VECs) are key players in the formation of neovessels and tumor metastasis, the ultimate cause of the majority of cancer-related human death. However, the crosstalk between VECs and metastasis remain greatly elusive. Based on our finding that tumor-associated VECs present significant decrease of Nrdp1 protein which is closely correlated with higher metastatic probability, herein we show that the conditional medium from hypoxia-incubated cancer cells induces extensive Nrdp1 downregulation in human and mouse VECs by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which activates CHIP, followed by Nrdp1 degradation in ubiquitin-proteasome-dependent way. More importantly, lung metastases of cancer cells significantly increase in conditional VECs Nrdp1 knockout mice. Mechanically, Nrdp1 promotes degradation of Fam20C, a secretory kinase involved in phosphorylating numerous secreted proteins. Reciprocally, deficiency of Nrdp1 in VECs (ecNrdp1) results in increased secretion of Fam20C, which induces degradation of extracellular matrix and disrupts integrity of vascular basement membrane, thus driving tumor metastatic dissemination. In addition, specific overexpression of ecNrdp1 by Nrdp1-carrying adeno-associated virus or chemical Nrdp1 activator ABPN efficiently mitigates tumor metastasis in mice. Collectively, we explore a new mechanism for VEGF to enhance metastasis and role of Nrdp1 in maintaining the integrity of vascular endothelium, suggesting that ecNrdp1-mediated signaling pathways might become potential target for anti-metastatic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Qing Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Meng Guo
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Guang-Huan He
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Kai-Hua Xi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Mei-Yi Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Rong-Yi Shi
- Hainan Academy of Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Hainan, 570000, China.
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology in National Health Commission, Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, SJTU-SM, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Guo-Qiang Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), Shanghai, 200025, China.
- Hainan Academy of Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Hainan, 570000, China.
- Institute of Aging & Tissue Regeneration, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Research Units of Stress and Tumor (2019RU043), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Ren-Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China.
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4
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Qin S, Xie B, Wang Q, Yang R, Sun J, Hu C, Liu S, Tao Y, Xiao D. New insights into immune cells in cancer immunotherapy: from epigenetic modification, metabolic modulation to cell communication. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e551. [PMID: 38783893 PMCID: PMC11112485 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and more effective ways of attacking cancer are being sought. Cancer immunotherapy is a new and effective therapeutic method after surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Cancer immunotherapy aims to kill tumor cells by stimulating or rebuilding the body's immune system, with specific efficiency and high safety. However, only few tumor patients respond to immunotherapy and due to the complex and variable characters of cancer immune escape, the behavior and regulatory mechanisms of immune cells need to be deeply explored from more dimensions. Epigenetic modifications, metabolic modulation, and cell-to-cell communication are key factors in immune cell adaptation and response to the complex tumor microenvironment. They collectively determine the state and function of immune cells through modulating gene expression, changing in energy and nutrient demands. In addition, immune cells engage in complex communication networks with other immune components, which are mediated by exosomes, cytokines, and chemokines, and are pivotal in shaping the tumor progression and therapeutic response. Understanding the interactions and combined effects of such multidimensions mechanisms in immune cell modulation is important for revealing the mechanisms of immunotherapy failure and developing new therapeutic targets and strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Qin
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Bin Xie
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Qingyi Wang
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Jingyue Sun
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chaotao Hu
- Regenerative Medicine, Medical SchoolUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shuang Liu
- Department of OncologyInstitute of Medical SciencesNational Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangsha, Hunan, China. UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Yongguang Tao
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- NHC Key Laboratory of CarcinogenesisCancer Research Institute and School of Basic MedicineCentral South universityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Desheng Xiao
- Department of PathologyXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Department of PathologySchool of Basic Medical ScienceXiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
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5
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de Oliveira MA, Florentino LH, Sales TT, Lima RN, Barros LRC, Limia CG, Almeida MSM, Robledo ML, Barros LMG, Melo EO, Bittencourt DM, Rehen SK, Bonamino MH, Rech E. Protocol for the establishment of a serine integrase-based platform for functional validation of genetic switch controllers in eukaryotic cells. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303999. [PMID: 38781126 PMCID: PMC11115199 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Serine integrases (Ints) are a family of site-specific recombinases (SSRs) encoded by some bacteriophages to integrate their genetic material into the genome of a host. Their ability to rearrange DNA sequences in different ways including inversion, excision, or insertion with no help from endogenous molecular machinery, confers important biotechnological value as genetic editing tools with high host plasticity. Despite advances in their use in prokaryotic cells, only a few Ints are currently used as gene editors in eukaryotes, partly due to the functional loss and cytotoxicity presented by some candidates in more complex organisms. To help expand the number of Ints available for the assembly of more complex multifunctional circuits in eukaryotic cells, this protocol describes a platform for the assembly and functional screening of serine-integrase-based genetic switches designed to control gene expression by directional inversions of DNA sequence orientation. The system consists of two sets of plasmids, an effector module and a reporter module, both sets assembled with regulatory components (as promoter and terminator regions) appropriate for expression in mammals, including humans, and plants. The complete method involves plasmid design, DNA delivery, testing and both molecular and phenotypical assessment of results. This platform presents a suitable workflow for the identification and functional validation of new tools for the genetic regulation and reprogramming of organisms with importance in different fields, from medical applications to crop enhancement, as shown by the initial results obtained. This protocol can be completed in 4 weeks for mammalian cells or up to 8 weeks for plant cells, considering cell culture or plant growth time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. de Oliveira
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Science, University of Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Lilian H. Florentino
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Science, University of Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Thais T. Sales
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Science, University of Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rayane N. Lima
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Luciana R. C. Barros
- Center for Translational Research in Oncology, Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cintia G. Limia
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Program, Research Coordination, National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana S. M. Almeida
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Maria L. Robledo
- Molecular Carcinogenesis Program, Research Coordination, National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leila M. G. Barros
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Eduardo O. Melo
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Daniela M. Bittencourt
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Stevens K. Rehen
- D’Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Martín H. Bonamino
- Cell and Gene Therapy Program, Research Coordination, National Cancer Institute (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Vice-Presidency of Research and Biological Collections (VPPCB), FIOCRUZ – Oswaldo Cruz Foundation Institute, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Elibio Rech
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Synthetic Biology (INCT BioSyn), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
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6
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Guo QR, Cao YJ. Applications of genetic code expansion technology in eukaryotes. Protein Cell 2024; 15:331-363. [PMID: 37847216 PMCID: PMC11074999 DOI: 10.1093/procel/pwad051] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Unnatural amino acids (UAAs) have gained significant attention in protein engineering and drug development owing to their ability to introduce new chemical functionalities to proteins. In eukaryotes, genetic code expansion (GCE) enables the incorporation of UAAs and facilitates posttranscriptional modification (PTM), which is not feasible in prokaryotic systems. GCE is also a powerful tool for cell or animal imaging, the monitoring of protein interactions in target cells, drug development, and switch regulation. Therefore, there is keen interest in utilizing GCE in eukaryotic systems. This review provides an overview of the application of GCE in eukaryotic systems and discusses current challenges that need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-ru Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomic, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yu J Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomic, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
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7
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Chen H, Xie Y, Zhang M, Huang J, Jiang W, Zhang R, Li C, Du X, Chen H, Nie Q, Liang S, Tan Q, Yang J, Jin M, Huang S, Kuang L, Su N, Qi H, Luo X, Xu X, Deng C, Chen L, Luo F. An Hsp70 promoter-based mouse for heat shock-induced gene modulation. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:693-707. [PMID: 38492027 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-024-02433-9] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Physical therapy is extensively employed in clinical settings. Nevertheless, the absence of suitable animal models has resulted in an incomplete understanding of the in vivo mechanisms and cellular distribution that respond to physical stimuli. The objective of this research was to create a mouse model capable of indicating the cells affected by physical stimuli. In this study, we successfully established a mouse line based on the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) promoter, wherein the expression of CreERT2 can be induced by physical stimuli. Following stimulation of the mouse tail, ear, or cultured calvarias with heat shock (generated by heating, ultrasound, or laser), a distinct Cre-mediated excision was observed in cells stimulated by these physical factors with minimal occurrence of leaky reporter expression. The application of heat shock to Hsp70-CreERT2; FGFR2-P253R double transgenic mice or Hsp70-CreERT2 mice infected with AAV-BMP4 at calvarias induced the activation of Cre-dependent mutant FGFR2-P253R or BMP4 respectively, thereby facilitating the premature closure of cranial sutures or the repair of calvarial defects. This novel mouse line holds significant potential for investigating the underlying mechanisms of physical therapy, tissue repair and regeneration, lineage tracing, and targeted modulation of gene expression of cells in local tissue stimulated by physical factor at the interested time points. KEY MESSAGES: In the study, an Hsp70-CreERT2 transgenic mouse was generated for heat shock-induced gene modulation. Heat shock, ultrasound, and laser stimulation effectively activated Cre expression in Hsp70-CreERT2; reporter mice, which leads to deletion of floxed DNA sequence in the tail, ear, and cultured calvaria tissues of mice. Local laser stimuli on cultured calvarias effectively induce Fgfr2-P253R expression in Hsp70-mTmG-Fgfr2-P253R mice and result in accelerated premature closure of cranial suture. Heat shock activated AAV9-FLEX-BMP4 expression and subsequently promoted the repair of calvarial defect of Hsp70-CreERT2; Rosa26-mTmG mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangang Chen
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yangli Xie
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Mei Zhang
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Junlan Huang
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Wanling Jiang
- Department of Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation, Chongqing Emergency Medical Center, Chongqing University Central Hospital), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Ruobin Zhang
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Can Li
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xiaolan Du
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Hua Chen
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Qiang Nie
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Sen Liang
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Qiaoyan Tan
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Min Jin
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Shuo Huang
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Liang Kuang
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Nan Su
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Huabing Qi
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xiaoqing Luo
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xiaoling Xu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Chuxia Deng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Fengtao Luo
- Laboratory of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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8
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Lee HHC, Latzer IT, Bertoldi M, Gao G, Pearl PL, Sahin M, Rotenberg A. Gene replacement therapies for inherited disorders of neurotransmission: Current progress in succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024; 47:476-493. [PMID: 38581234 PMCID: PMC11096052 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Neurodevelopment is a highly organized and complex process involving lasting and often irreversible changes in the central nervous system. Inherited disorders of neurotransmission (IDNT) are a group of genetic disorders where neurotransmission is primarily affected, resulting in abnormal brain development from early life, manifest as neurodevelopmental disorders and other chronic conditions. In principle, IDNT (particularly those of monogenic causes) are amenable to gene replacement therapy via precise genetic correction. However, practical challenges for gene replacement therapy remain major hurdles for its translation from bench to bedside. We discuss key considerations for the development of gene replacement therapies for IDNT. As an example, we describe our ongoing work on gene replacement therapy for succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency, a GABA catabolic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry HC Lee
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Itay Tokatly Latzer
- Division of Epilepsy & Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Tel-Aviv University Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Mariarita Bertoldi
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Guangping Gao
- The Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Medical School, MA 01605, USA
| | - Phillip L Pearl
- Division of Epilepsy & Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alexander Rotenberg
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Epilepsy & Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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9
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Dayal S, Chaubey D, Joshi DC, Ranmale S, Pillai B. Noncoding RNAs: Emerging regulators of behavioral complexity. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1847. [PMID: 38702948 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
The mammalian genome encodes thousands of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), ranging in size from about 20 nucleotides (microRNAs or miRNAs) to kilobases (long non-coding RNAs or lncRNAs). ncRNAs contribute to a layer of gene regulation that could explain the evolution of massive phenotypic complexity even as the number of protein-coding genes remains unaltered. We propose that low conservation, poor expression, and highly restricted spatiotemporal expression patterns-conventionally considered ncRNAs may affect behavior through direct, rapid, and often sustained regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, or translational levels. Besides these direct roles, their effect during neurodevelopment may manifest as behavioral changes later in the organism's life, especially when exposed to environmental cues like stress and seasonal changes. The lncRNAs affect behavior through diverse mechanisms like sponging of miRNAs, recruitment of chromatin modifiers, and regulation of alternative splicing. We highlight the need for synthesis between rigorously designed behavioral paradigms in model organisms and the wide diversity of behaviors documented by ethologists through field studies on organisms exquisitely adapted to their environmental niche. Comparative genomics and the latest advancements in transcriptomics provide an unprecedented scope for merging field and lab studies on model and non-model organisms to shed light on the role of ncRNAs in driving the behavioral responses of individuals and groups. We touch upon the technical challenges and contentious issues that must be resolved to fully understand the role of ncRNAs in regulating complex behavioral traits. This article is categorized under: Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanovar Dayal
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Divya Chaubey
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Dheeraj Chandra Joshi
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Samruddhi Ranmale
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
| | - Beena Pillai
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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10
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Wright CS, Lewis KJ, Semon K, Yi X, Reyes Fernandez PC, Rust K, Prideaux M, Schneider A, Pederson M, Deosthale P, Plotkin LI, Hum JM, Sankar U, Farach-Carson MC, Robling AG, Thompson WR. Deletion of the auxiliary α2δ1 voltage sensitive calcium channel subunit in osteocytes and late-stage osteoblasts impairs femur strength and load-induced bone formation in male mice. J Bone Miner Res 2024; 39:298-314. [PMID: 38477790 DOI: 10.1093/jbmr/zjae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Osteocytes sense and respond to mechanical force by controlling the activity of other bone cells. However, the mechanisms by which osteocytes sense mechanical input and transmit biological signals remain unclear. Voltage-sensitive calcium channels (VSCCs) regulate calcium (Ca2+) influx in response to external stimuli. Inhibition or deletion of VSCCs impairs osteogenesis and skeletal responses to mechanical loading. VSCC activity is influenced by its auxiliary subunits, which bind the channel's α1 pore-forming subunit to alter intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. The α2δ1 auxiliary subunit associates with the pore-forming subunit via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor and regulates the channel's calcium-gating kinetics. Knockdown of α2δ1 in osteocytes impairs responses to membrane stretch, and global deletion of α2δ1 in mice results in osteopenia and impaired skeletal responses to loading in vivo. Therefore, we hypothesized that the α2δ1 subunit functions as a mechanotransducer, and its deletion in osteocytes would impair skeletal development and load-induced bone formation. Mice (C57BL/6) with LoxP sequences flanking Cacna2d1, the gene encoding α2δ1, were crossed with mice expressing Cre under the control of the Dmp1 promoter (10 kb). Deletion of α2δ1 in osteocytes and late-stage osteoblasts decreased femoral bone quantity (P < .05) by DXA, reduced relative osteoid surface (P < .05), and altered osteoblast and osteocyte regulatory gene expression (P < .01). Cacna2d1f/f, Cre + male mice displayed decreased femoral strength and lower 10-wk cancellous bone in vivo micro-computed tomography measurements at the proximal tibia (P < .01) compared to controls, whereas Cacna2d1f/f, Cre + female mice showed impaired 20-wk cancellous and cortical bone ex vivo micro-computed tomography measurements (P < .05) vs controls. Deletion of α2δ1 in osteocytes and late-stage osteoblasts suppressed load-induced calcium signaling in vivo and decreased anabolic responses to mechanical loading in male mice, demonstrating decreased mechanosensitivity. Collectively, the α2δ1 auxiliary subunit is essential for the regulation of osteoid-formation, femur strength, and load-induced bone formation in male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian S Wright
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Karl J Lewis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
| | - Katelyn Semon
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Xin Yi
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Perla C Reyes Fernandez
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Katie Rust
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Matthew Prideaux
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Artur Schneider
- Department of Physiology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Marian University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Molly Pederson
- School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Padmini Deosthale
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Lilian I Plotkin
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Julia M Hum
- Department of Physiology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Marian University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Uma Sankar
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Mary C Farach-Carson
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Texas, Health Science Center, Houston, TX 78712, United States
| | - Alexander G Robling
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - William R Thompson
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
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11
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Pothuraju R, Khan I, Jain M, Bouvet M, Malafa M, Roy HK, Kumar S, Batra SK. Colorectal cancer murine models: Initiation to metastasis. Cancer Lett 2024; 587:216704. [PMID: 38360138 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216704] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Despite significant advancements in prevention and treatment, colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Animal models, including xenografts, syngeneic, and genetically engineered, have emerged as indispensable tools in cancer research. These models offer a valuable platform to address critical questions regarding molecular pathogenesis and test therapeutic interventions before moving on to clinical trials. Advancements in CRC animal models have also facilitated the advent of personalized and precision medicine. Patient-derived xenografts and genetically engineered mice that mirror features of human tumors allow for tailoring treatments to specific CRC subtypes, improving treatment outcomes and quality of life. To overcome the limitations of individual model systems, recent studies have employed a multi-modal approach, combining different animal models, 3D organoids, and in vitro studies. This integrative approach provides a comprehensive understanding of CRC biology, including the tumor microenvironment and therapeutic responses, driving the development of more effective and personalized therapeutic interventions. This review discusses the animal models used for CRC research, including recent advancements and limitations of these animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Pothuraju
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695014, Kerala, India
| | - Imran Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Michael Bouvet
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, California, USA
| | - Mokenge Malafa
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Hemant K Roy
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX-77030, USA
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
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12
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Sharma S, Singh N, Turk AA, Wan I, Guttikonda A, Dong JL, Zhang X, Opyrchal M. Molecular insights into clinical trials for immune checkpoint inhibitors in colorectal cancer: Unravelling challenges and future directions. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:1815-1835. [PMID: 38659481 PMCID: PMC11036501 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i13.1815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a complex disease with diverse etiologies and clinical outcomes. Despite considerable progress in development of CRC therapeutics, challenges remain regarding the diagnosis and management of advanced stage metastatic CRC (mCRC). In particular, the five-year survival rate is very low since mCRC is currently rarely curable. Over the past decade, cancer treatment has significantly improved with the introduction of cancer immunotherapies, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors. Therapies aimed at blocking immune checkpoints such as PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4 target inhibitory pathways of the immune system, and thereby enhance anti-tumor immunity. These therapies thus have shown promising results in many clinical trials alone or in combination. The efficacy and safety of immunotherapy, either alone or in combination with CRC, have been investigated in several clinical trials. Clinical trials, including KEYNOTE-164 and CheckMate 142, have led to Food and Drug Administration approval of the PD-1 inhibitors pembrolizumab and nivolumab, respectively, for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability-high or deficient mismatch repair CRC. Unfortunately, these drugs benefit only a small percentage of patients, with the benefits of immunotherapy remaining elusive for the vast majority of CRC patients. To this end, primary and secondary resistance to immunotherapy remains a significant issue, and further research is necessary to optimize the use of immunotherapy in CRC and identify biomarkers to predict the response. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical trials involving immune checkpoint inhibitors in CRC. The underlying rationale, challenges faced, and potential future steps to improve the prognosis and enhance the likelihood of successful trials in this field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Sharma
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Naresh Singh
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Anita Ahmed Turk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Isabella Wan
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Akshay Guttikonda
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Julia Lily Dong
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Xinna Zhang
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Mateusz Opyrchal
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
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13
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Asunción-Alvarez D, Palacios J, Ybañez-Julca RO, Rodriguez-Silva CN, Nwokocha C, Cifuentes F, Greensmith DJ. Calcium signaling in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells: sex differences and the influence of estrogens and androgens. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H950-H970. [PMID: 38334967 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00600.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Calcium signaling in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is essential for the regulation of vascular tone. However, the changes to intracellular Ca2+ concentrations are often influenced by sex differences. Furthermore, a large body of evidence shows that sex hormone imbalance leads to dysregulation of Ca2+ signaling and this is a key factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In this review, the effects of estrogens and androgens on vascular calcium-handling proteins are discussed, with emphasis on the associated genomic or nongenomic molecular mechanisms. The experimental models from which data were collected were also considered. The review highlights 1) in female ECs, transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) and mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) enhance Ca2+-dependent nitric oxide (NO) generation. In males, only transient receptor potential canonical 3 (TRPC3) plays a fundamental role in this effect. 2) Female VSMCs have lower cytosolic Ca2+ levels than males due to differences in the activity and expression of stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), calcium release-activated calcium modulator 1 (Orai1), calcium voltage-gated channel subunit-α1C (CaV1.2), Na+-K+-2Cl- symporter (NKCC1), and the Na+/K+-ATPase. 3) When compared with androgens, the influence of estrogens on Ca2+ homeostasis, vascular tone, and incidence of vascular disease is better documented. 4) Many studies use supraphysiological concentrations of sex hormones, which may limit the physiological relevance of outcomes. 5) Sex-dependent differences in Ca2+ signaling mean both sexes ought to be included in experimental design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Asunción-Alvarez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Aplicada, Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Javier Palacios
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Aplicada, Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Roberto O Ybañez-Julca
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | - Cristhian N Rodriguez-Silva
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, Trujillo, Perú
| | - Chukwuemeka Nwokocha
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences Physiology Section, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
| | - Fredi Cifuentes
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Experimental (EphyL), Instituto Antofagasta (IA), Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - David J Greensmith
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, The University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
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14
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Wang S, Gong X, Xiao F, Yang Y. Recent advances in host-focused molecular tools for investigating host-gut microbiome interactions. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1335036. [PMID: 38605718 PMCID: PMC11007152 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1335036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Microbial communities in the human gut play a significant role in regulating host gene expression, influencing a variety of biological processes. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying host-microbe interactions, tools that can dissect signaling networks are required. In this review, we discuss recent advances in molecular tools used to study this interplay, with a focus on those that explore how the microbiome regulates host gene expression. These tools include CRISPR-based whole-body genetic tools for deciphering host-specific genes involved in the interaction process, Cre-loxP based tissue/cell-specific gene editing approaches, and in vitro models of host-derived organoids. Overall, the application of these molecular tools is revolutionizing our understanding of how host-microbiome interactions contribute to health and disease, paving the way for improved therapies and interventions that target microbial influences on the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyao Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Gong
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Yang
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Beihang University, Beijing, China
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15
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Yang G, Xin Q, Dean J. Degradation and translation of maternal mRNA for embryogenesis. Trends Genet 2024; 40:238-249. [PMID: 38262796 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.12.008] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Maternal mRNAs accumulate during egg growth and must be judiciously degraded or translated to ensure successful development of mammalian embryos. In this review we integrate recent investigations into pathways controlling rapid degradation of maternal mRNAs during the maternal-to-zygotic transition. Degradation is not indiscriminate, and some mRNAs are selectively protected and rapidly translated after fertilization for reprogramming the zygotic genome during early embryogenesis. Oocyte specific cofactors and pathways have been illustrated to control different futures of maternal mRNAs. We discuss mechanisms that control the fate of maternal mRNAs during late oogenesis and after fertilization. Issues to be resolved in current maternal mRNA research are described, and future research directions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanghui Yang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Qiliang Xin
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jurrien Dean
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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16
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Hatanaka EA, Breunig JJ. In vitro and in vivo modeling systems of supratentorial ependymomas. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1360358. [PMID: 38469231 PMCID: PMC10925685 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1360358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Ependymomas are rare brain tumors that can occur in both children and adults. Subdivided by the tumors' initial location, ependymomas develop in the central nervous system in the supratentorial or infratentorial/posterior fossa region, or the spinal cord. Supratentorial ependymomas (ST-EPNs) are predominantly characterized by common driver gene fusions such as ZFTA and YAP1 fusions. Some variants of ST-EPNs carry a high overall survival rate. In poorly responding ST-EPN variants, high levels of inter- and intratumoral heterogeneity, limited therapeutic strategies, and tumor recurrence are among the reasons for poor patient outcomes with other ST-EPN subtypes. Thus, modeling these molecular profiles is key in further studying tumorigenesis. Due to the scarcity of patient samples, the development of preclinical in vitro and in vivo models that recapitulate patient tumors is imperative when testing therapeutic approaches for this rare cancer. In this review, we will survey ST-EPN modeling systems, addressing the strengths and limitations, application for therapeutic targeting, and current literature findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A. Hatanaka
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Joshua J. Breunig
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Center for Neural Sciences in Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Ågmo A. Androgen receptors and sociosexual behaviors in mammals: The limits of generalization. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 157:105530. [PMID: 38176634 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Circulating testosterone is easily aromatized to estradiol and reduced to dihydrotestosterone in target tissues and elsewhere in the body. Thus, the actions of testosterone can be mediated either by the estrogen receptors, the androgen receptor or by simultaneous action at both receptors. To determine the role of androgens acting at the androgen receptor, we need to eliminate actions at the estrogen receptors. Alternatively, actions at the androgen receptor itself can be eliminated. In the present review, I will analyze the specific role of androgen receptors in male and female sexual behavior as well as in aggression. Some comments about androgen receptors and social recognition are also made. It will be shown that there are important differences between species, even between strains within a species, concerning the actions of the androgen receptor on the behaviors mentioned. This fact makes generalizations from one species to another or from one strain to another very risky. The existence of important species differences is often ignored, leading to many misunderstandings and much confusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, Norway.
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18
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Kocherlakota S, Baes M. Benefits and Caveats in the Use of Retinal Pigment Epithelium-Specific Cre Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1293. [PMID: 38279294 PMCID: PMC10816505 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021293] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is an important monolayer of cells present in the outer retina, forming a major part of the blood-retina barrier (BRB). It performs many tasks essential for the maintenance of retinal integrity and function. With increasing knowledge of the retina, it is becoming clear that both common retinal disorders, like age-related macular degeneration, and rare genetic disorders originate in the RPE. This calls for a better understanding of the functions of various proteins within the RPE. In this regard, mice enabling an RPE-specific gene deletion are a powerful tool to study the role of a particular protein within the RPE cells in their native environment, simultaneously negating any potential influences of systemic changes. Moreover, since RPE cells interact closely with adjacent photoreceptors, these mice also provide an excellent avenue to study the importance of a particular gene function within the RPE to the retina as a whole. In this review, we outline and compare the features of various Cre mice created for this purpose, which allow for inducible or non-inducible RPE-specific knockout of a gene of interest. We summarize the various benefits and caveats involved in the use of such mouse lines, allowing researchers to make a well-informed decision on the choice of Cre mouse to use in relation to their research needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Myriam Baes
- Laboratory of Cell Metabolism, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Pasupuleti V, Vora L, Prasad R, Nandakumar DN, Khatri DK. Glioblastoma preclinical models: Strengths and weaknesses. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189059. [PMID: 38109948 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme is a highly malignant brain tumor with significant intra- and intertumoral heterogeneity known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The complex signaling cascade that regulates this heterogeneity makes targeted drug therapy ineffective. The development of an optimal preclinical model is crucial for the comprehension of molecular heterogeneity and enhancing therapeutic efficacy. The ideal model should establish a relationship between various oncogenes and their corresponding responses. This review presents an analysis of preclinical in vivo and in vitro models that have contributed to the advancement of knowledge in model development. The experimental designs utilized in vivo models consisting of both immunodeficient and immunocompetent mice induced with intracranial glioma. The transgenic model was generated using various techniques, like the viral vector delivery system, transposon system, Cre-LoxP model, and CRISPR-Cas9 approaches. The utilization of the patient-derived xenograft model in glioma research is valuable because it closely replicates the human glioma microenvironment, providing evidence of tumor heterogeneity. The utilization of in vitro techniques in the initial stages of research facilitated the comprehension of molecular interactions. However, these techniques are inadequate in reproducing the interactions between cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). As a result, bioengineered 3D-in vitro models, including spheroids, scaffolds, and brain organoids, were developed to cultivate glioma cells in a three-dimensional environment. These models have enabled researchers to understand the influence of ECM on the invasive nature of tumors. Collectively, these preclinical models effectively depict the molecular pathways and facilitate the evaluation of multiple molecules while tailoring drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasavi Pasupuleti
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Lalitkumar Vora
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, BT9 7BL, UK.
| | - Renuka Prasad
- Department of Anatomy, Korea University College of Medicine, Moonsuk Medical Research Building, 516, 5th floor, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 12841, Republic of Korea
| | - D N Nandakumar
- Department of Neurochemistry National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore 560029, India
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Khatri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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20
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Islam M, Samal A, Davis DJ, Behura SK. Ablation of placental REST deregulates fetal brain metabolism and impacts gene expression of the offspring brain at the postnatal and adult stages. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23349. [PMID: 38069914 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301344r] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the transcriptional repressor REST (Repressor Element 1 Silencing Transcription factor) was ablated in the mouse placenta to investigate molecular and cellular impacts on the offspring brain at different life stages. Ablation of placental REST deregulated several brain metabolites, including glucose and lactate that fuel brain energy, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that functions in the epigenetic programming of the brain during postnatal development, and glutamate and creatine that help the brain to respond to stress conditions during adult life. Bulk RNA-seq analysis showed that a lack of placental REST persistently altered multiple transport genes, including those related to oxygen transportation in the offspring brain. While metabolic genes were impacted in the postnatal brain, different stress response genes were activated in the adult brain. DNA methylation was also impacted in the adult brain due to the loss of placental REST, but in a sex-biased manner. Single-nuclei RNA-seq analysis showed that specific cell types of the brain, particularly those of the choroid plexus and ependyma, which play critical roles in producing cerebrospinal fluid and maintaining metabolic homeostasis, were significantly impacted due to the loss of placental REST. These cells showed significant differential expression of genes associated with the metabotropic (G coupled protein) and ionotropic (ligand-gated ion channel) glutamate receptors, suggesting an impact of ablation of placental REST on the glutamatergic signaling of the offspring brain. The study expands our understanding of placental influences on the offspring brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliha Islam
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Ananya Samal
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Daniel J Davis
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Animal Modeling Core, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Susanta K Behura
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- MU Institute for Data Science and Informatics, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Interdisciplnary Reproductive and Health Group, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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21
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Kellogg CM, Pham K, Ko S, Cox JE, Machalinski AH, Stout MB, Sharpe AL, Beckstead MJ, Chucair-Elliott AJ, Ocañas SR, Freeman WM. Specificity and efficiency of tamoxifen-mediated Cre induction is equivalent regardless of age. iScience 2023; 26:108413. [PMID: 38058312 PMCID: PMC10696116 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Temporally controlling Cre recombination through tamoxifen (Tam) induction has many advantages for biomedical research. Most studies report early post-natal/juvenile (<2 m.o.) Tam induction, but age-related neurodegeneration and aging studies can require Cre induction in older mice (>12 m.o.). While anecdotally reported as problematic, there are no published comparisons of Tam-mediated Cre induction at early and late ages. Here, microglial-specific Cx3cr1creERT2 mice were crossed to a floxed NuTRAP reporter to compare Cre induction at early (3-6 m.o.) and late (20 m.o.) ages. Specificity and efficiency of microglial labeling at 21-22 m.o. were identical in mice induced with Tam at early and late ages. Age-related microglial translatomic changes were also similar regardless of Tam induction age. Each Cre and flox mouse line should be independently validated, however, these findings demonstrate that Tam-mediated Cre induction can be performed even into older mouse ages and should be generalizable to other inducible Cre models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collyn M. Kellogg
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Kevin Pham
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sunghwan Ko
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jillian E.J. Cox
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Adeline H. Machalinski
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Michael B. Stout
- Aging & Metabolism Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Amanda L. Sharpe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Michael J. Beckstead
- Aging & Metabolism Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ana J. Chucair-Elliott
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sarah R. Ocañas
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Willard M. Freeman
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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22
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Abou-El-Hassan H, Bernstock JD, Chalif JI, Yahya T, Rezende RM, Weiner HL, Izzy S. Elucidating the neuroimmunology of traumatic brain injury: methodological approaches to unravel intercellular communication and function. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1322325. [PMID: 38162004 PMCID: PMC10756680 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1322325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The neuroimmunology of traumatic brain injury (TBI) has recently gained recognition as a crucial element in the secondary pathophysiological consequences that occur following neurotrauma. Both immune cells residing within the central nervous system (CNS) and those migrating from the periphery play significant roles in the development of secondary brain injury. However, the precise mechanisms governing communication between innate and adaptive immune cells remain incompletely understood, partly due to a limited utilization of relevant experimental models and techniques. Therefore, in this discussion, we outline current methodologies that can aid in the exploration of TBI neuroimmunology, with a particular emphasis on the interactions between resident neuroglial cells and recruited lymphocytes. These techniques encompass adoptive cell transfer, intra-CNS injection(s), selective cellular depletion, genetic manipulation, molecular neuroimaging, as well as in vitro co-culture systems and the utilization of organoid models. By incorporating key elements of both innate and adaptive immunity, these methods facilitate the examination of clinically relevant interactions. In addition to these preclinical approaches, we also detail an emerging avenue of research that seeks to leverage human biofluids. This approach enables the investigation of how resident and infiltrating immune cells modulate neuroglial responses after TBI. Considering the growing significance of neuroinflammation in TBI, the introduction and application of advanced methodologies will be pivotal in advancing translational research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Abou-El-Hassan
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Joshua D. Bernstock
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Joshua I. Chalif
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Taha Yahya
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rafael M. Rezende
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Howard L. Weiner
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Saef Izzy
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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23
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Tiyaboonchai A, Wakefield L, Vonada A, May CL, Dorrell C, Enicks D, Sairavi A, Kaestner KH, Grompe M. In vivo tracing of the Cytokeratin 14 lineages using self-cleaving guide RNAs and CRISPR/Cas9. Dev Biol 2023; 504:120-127. [PMID: 37813160 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2023.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The current gold-standard for genetic lineage tracing in transgenic mice is based on cell-type specific expression of Cre recombinase. As an alternative, we developed a cell-type specific CRISPR/spCas9 system for lineage tracing. This method relies on RNA polymerase II promoter driven self-cleaving guide RNAs (scgRNA) to achieve tissue-specificity. To demonstrate proof-of-principle for this approach a transgenic mouse was generated harbouring a knock-in of a scgRNA into the Cytokeratin 14 (Krt14) locus. Krt14 expression marks the stem cells of squamous epithelium in the skin and oral mucosa. The scgRNA targets a Stop cassette preceding a fluorescent reporter in the Ai9-tdtomato mouse. Ai9-tdtomato reporter mice harbouring this allele along with a spCas9 transgene demonstrated precise marking of the Krt14 lineage. We conclude that RNA polymerase II promoter driven scgRNAs enable the use of CRISPR/spCas9 for genetic lineage tracing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amita Tiyaboonchai
- Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Leslie Wakefield
- Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Anne Vonada
- Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA; Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Catherine L May
- Institute of Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Craig Dorrell
- Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - David Enicks
- Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Anusha Sairavi
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Klaus H Kaestner
- Institute of Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Markus Grompe
- Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA; Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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24
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Michell-Robinson MA, Watt KEN, Grouza V, Macintosh J, Pinard M, Tuznik M, Chen X, Darbelli L, Wu CL, Perrier S, Chitsaz D, Uccelli NA, Liu H, Cox TC, Müller CW, Kennedy TE, Coulombe B, Rudko DA, Trainor PA, Bernard G. Hypomyelination, hypodontia and craniofacial abnormalities in a Polr3b mouse model of leukodystrophy. Brain 2023; 146:5070-5085. [PMID: 37635302 PMCID: PMC10690025 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase III (Pol III)-related hypomyelinating leukodystrophy (POLR3-HLD), also known as 4H leukodystrophy, is a severe neurodegenerative disease characterized by the cardinal features of hypomyelination, hypodontia and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. POLR3-HLD is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in genes encoding Pol III subunits. While approximately half of all patients carry mutations in POLR3B encoding the RNA polymerase III subunit B, there is no in vivo model of leukodystrophy based on mutation of this Pol III subunit. Here, we determined the impact of POLR3BΔ10 (Δ10) on Pol III in human cells and developed and characterized an inducible/conditional mouse model of leukodystrophy using the orthologous Δ10 mutation in mice. The molecular mechanism of Pol III dysfunction was determined in human cells by affinity purification-mass spectrometry and western blot. Postnatal induction with tamoxifen induced expression of the orthologous Δ10 hypomorph in triple transgenic Pdgfrα-Cre/ERT; R26-Stopfl-EYFP; Polr3bfl mice. CNS and non-CNS features were characterized using a variety of techniques including microCT, ex vivo MRI, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, spectral confocal reflectance microscopy and western blot. Lineage tracing and time series analysis of oligodendrocyte subpopulation dynamics based on co-labelling with lineage-specific and/or proliferation markers were performed. Proteomics suggested that Δ10 causes a Pol III assembly defect, while western blots demonstrated reduced POLR3BΔ10 expression in the cytoplasm and nucleus in human cells. In mice, postnatal Pdgfrα-dependent expression of the orthologous murine mutant protein resulted in recessive phenotypes including severe hypomyelination leading to ataxia, tremor, seizures and limited survival, as well as hypodontia and craniofacial abnormalities. Hypomyelination was confirmed and characterized using classic methods to quantify myelin components such as myelin basic protein and lipids, results which agreed with those produced using modern methods to quantify myelin based on the physical properties of myelin membranes. Lineage tracing uncovered the underlying mechanism for the hypomyelinating phenotype: defective oligodendrocyte precursor proliferation and differentiation resulted in a failure to produce an adequate number of mature oligodendrocytes during postnatal myelinogenesis. In summary, we characterized the Polr3bΔ10 mutation and developed an animal model that recapitulates features of POLR3-HLD caused by POLR3B mutations, shedding light on disease pathogenesis, and opening the door to the development of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie A Michell-Robinson
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Kristin E N Watt
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
| | - Vladimir Grouza
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Julia Macintosh
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Maxime Pinard
- Translational Proteomics Research Unit, Montreal Clinical Research Institute, Montréal, QC H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Marius Tuznik
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Xiaoru Chen
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Lama Darbelli
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Chia-Lun Wu
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Stefanie Perrier
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Daryan Chitsaz
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Nonthué A Uccelli
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Hanwen Liu
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Timothy C Cox
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dentistry, and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri – Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Christoph W Müller
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Timothy E Kennedy
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Benoit Coulombe
- Translational Proteomics Research Unit, Montreal Clinical Research Institute, Montréal, QC H2W 1R7, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - David A Rudko
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Paul A Trainor
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Geneviève Bernard
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 0C7, Canada
- Department of Specialized Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, Montreal Children’s Hospital and McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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25
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Cheng L, Wang G, Lu H, Li S, Xiong W, Wang J. Effect of Bushen Tiansui Decoction on Delayed Fracture Healing: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF MUSCULOSKELETAL & NEURONAL INTERACTIONS 2023; 23:471-488. [PMID: 38037365 PMCID: PMC10696372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
This review aimed to validate the therapeutic potential of Bushen Tiansui decoction (BSTSD), a traditional Chinese formulation, in treating delayed union of fractures. Comprehensive database searches identified randomized controlled trials up to September 13, 2022, assessing BSTSD's efficacy in delayed fracture healing. Outcomes were bone metabolism indexes and Harris hip scores. Quality and risk assessments were conducted using the Cochrane Collaboration's tools. Data were analyzed using RevMan software, with sensitivity analysis through Stata. BSTSD significantly improved bone GLA protein (SMD=1.76, P<0.00001) and alkaline phosphatase (SMD=1.31, P<0.00001). Additionally, Harris hip scores for pain, function, deformity, and motion showed marked improvement. BSTSD treatment also demonstrated enhanced clinical efficiency (RR=1.27, P<0.00001) with fewer complications. Sensitivity analyses indicated consistent results. BSTSD shows promise in treating delayed fracture unions, yet conclusions necessitate further high-quality research for validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Cheng
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Nanchang Hongdu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Gao Wang
- Orthopedics, Nanchang Hongdu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Hualong Lu
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Nanchang Hongdu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Song Li
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Nanchang Hongdu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Nanchang Hongdu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Jun Wang
- General Surgery Department of Trauma Center, The First Hospital of Nanchang, China
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26
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Feher B, Kampleitner C, Heimel P, Tangl S, Helms JA, Kuchler U, Gruber R. The effect of osteocyte-derived RANKL on bone graft remodeling: An in vivo experimental study. Clin Oral Implants Res 2023; 34:1417-1427. [PMID: 37792417 DOI: 10.1111/clr.14187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Autologous bone is considered the gold standard for grafting, yet it suffers from a tendency to undergo resorption over time. While the exact mechanisms of this resorption remain elusive, osteocytes have been shown to play an important role in stimulating osteoclastic activity through their expression of receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) ligand (RANKL). The aim of this study was to assess the function of osteocyte-derived RANKL in bone graft remodeling. MATERIALS AND METHODS In Tnfsf11fl/fl ;Dmp1-Cre mice without osteocyte-specific RANKL as well as in Dmp1-Cre control mice, 2.6 mm calvarial bone disks were harvested and transplanted into mice with matching genetic backgrounds either subcutaneously or subperiosteally, creating 4 groups in total. Histology and micro-computed tomography of the grafts and the donor regions were performed 28 days after grafting. RESULTS Histology revealed marked resorption of subcutaneous control Dmp1-Cre grafts and new bone formation around subperiosteal Dmp1-Cre grafts. In contrast, Tnfsf11fl/fl ;Dmp1-Cre grafts showed effectively neither signs of bone resorption nor formation. Quantitative micro-computed tomography revealed a significant difference in residual graft area between subcutaneous and subperiosteal Dmp1-Cre grafts (p < .01). This difference was not observed between subcutaneous and subperiosteal Tnfsf11fl/fl ;Dmp1-Cre grafts (p = .17). Residual graft volume (p = .08) and thickness (p = .13) did not differ significantly among the groups. Donor area regeneration was comparable between Tnfsf11fl/fl ;Dmp1-Cre and Dmp1-Cre mice and restricted to the defect margins. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest an active function of osteocyte-derived RANKL in bone graft remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balazs Feher
- Department of Oral Biology, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Oral Surgery, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection, and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carina Kampleitner
- Karl Donath Laboratory for Hard Tissue and Biomaterial Research, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
| | - Patrick Heimel
- Karl Donath Laboratory for Hard Tissue and Biomaterial Research, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Tangl
- Karl Donath Laboratory for Hard Tissue and Biomaterial Research, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jill A Helms
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Ulrike Kuchler
- Department of Oral Surgery, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Reinhard Gruber
- Department of Oral Biology, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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27
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Deng H, Ge H, Dubey C, Losmanova T, Medová M, Konstantinidou G, Mutlu SM, Birrer FE, Brodie TM, Stroka D, Wang W, Peng RW, Dorn P, Marti TM. An optimized protocol for the generation and monitoring of conditional orthotopic lung cancer in the KP mouse model using an adeno-associated virus vector compatible with biosafety level 1. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:4457-4470. [PMID: 37796299 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03542-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The inducible Kras/p53 lung adenocarcinoma mouse model, which faithfully recapitulates human disease, is routinely initiated by the intratracheal instillation of a virus-based Cre recombinase delivery system. Handling virus-based delivery systems requires elevated biosafety levels, e.g., biosafety level 2 (BSL-2). However, in experimental animal research facilities, following exposure to viral vectors in a BSL-2 environment, rodents may not be reclassified to BSL-1 according to standard practice, preventing access to small animal micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scanners that are typically housed in general access areas such as BSL-1 rooms. Therefore, our goal was to adapt the protocol so that the Cre-induced KP mouse model could be handled under BSL-1 conditions during the entire procedure. RESULTS The Kras-Lox-STOP-Lox-G12D/p53 flox/flox (KP)-based lung adenocarcinoma mouse model was activated by intratracheal instillation of either an adenoviral-based or a gutless, adeno-associated viral-based Cre delivery system. Tumor growth was monitored over time by micro-CT. We have successfully substituted the virus-based Cre delivery system with a commercially available, gutless, adeno-associated, Cre-expressing vector that allows the KP mouse model to be handled and imaged in a BSL-1 facility. By optimizing the anesthesia protocol and switching to a microscope-guided vector instillation procedure, productivity was increased and procedure-related complications were significantly reduced. In addition, repeated micro-CT analysis of individual animals allowed us to monitor tumor growth longitudinally, dramatically reducing the number of animals required per experiment. Finally, we documented the evolution of tumor volume for different doses, which revealed that individual tumor nodules induced by low-titer AAV-Cre transductions can be monitored over time by micro-CT. CONCLUSION Modifications to the anesthesia and instillation protocols increased the productivity of the original KP protocol. In addition, the switch to a gutless, adeno-associated, Cre-expressing vector allowed longitudinal monitoring of tumor growth under BSL-1 conditions, significantly reducing the number of animals required for an experiment, in line with the 3R principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibin Deng
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Thoracic Surgery Department 2, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Huixiang Ge
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Graduate School of Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christelle Dubey
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Michaela Medová
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Seyran Mathilde Mutlu
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fabienne Esther Birrer
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tess Melinda Brodie
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Deborah Stroka
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Wenxiang Wang
- Thoracic Surgery Department 2, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Ren-Wang Peng
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008, Bern, Switzerland.
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Patrick Dorn
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008, Bern, Switzerland.
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Thomas Michael Marti
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008, Bern, Switzerland.
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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Slika H, Karimov Z, Alimonti P, Abou-Mrad T, De Fazio E, Alomari S, Tyler B. Preclinical Models and Technologies in Glioblastoma Research: Evolution, Current State, and Future Avenues. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16316. [PMID: 38003507 PMCID: PMC10671665 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common malignant primary central nervous system tumor and one of the most debilitating cancers. The prognosis of patients with glioblastoma remains poor, and the management of this tumor, both in its primary and recurrent forms, remains suboptimal. Despite the tremendous efforts that are being put forward by the research community to discover novel efficacious therapeutic agents and modalities, no major paradigm shifts have been established in the field in the last decade. However, this does not mirror the abundance of relevant findings and discoveries made in preclinical glioblastoma research. Hence, developing and utilizing appropriate preclinical models that faithfully recapitulate the characteristics and behavior of human glioblastoma is of utmost importance. Herein, we offer a holistic picture of the evolution of preclinical models of glioblastoma. We further elaborate on the commonly used in vitro and vivo models, delving into their development, favorable characteristics, shortcomings, and areas of potential improvement, which aids researchers in designing future experiments and utilizing the most suitable models. Additionally, this review explores progress in the fields of humanized and immunotolerant mouse models, genetically engineered animal models, 3D in vitro models, and microfluidics and highlights promising avenues for the future of preclinical glioblastoma research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Slika
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (H.S.); (Z.K.); (S.A.)
| | - Ziya Karimov
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (H.S.); (Z.K.); (S.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, 35100 Izmir, Turkey
| | - Paolo Alimonti
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (P.A.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Tatiana Abou-Mrad
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon;
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Emerson De Fazio
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (P.A.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Safwan Alomari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (H.S.); (Z.K.); (S.A.)
| | - Betty Tyler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (H.S.); (Z.K.); (S.A.)
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Cristante E, Liyanage SE, Smith AJ, Ali RR, Bainbridge JWB. Role of HIF1α and HIF2α in Cre Recombinase-Induced Retinal Pigment Epithelium Pathology and Its Secondary Effect on Choroidal Neovascularization. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1694-1705. [PMID: 37330004 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
CreTrp1 mice are widely used for conditional retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) gene function studies. Like other Cre/LoxP models, phenotypes in CreTrp1 mice can be affected by Cre-mediated cellular toxicity, leading to RPE dysfunction, altered morphology and atrophy, activation of innate immunity, and consequent impairment of photoreceptor function. These effects are common among the age-related alterations of RPE that feature in early/intermediate forms of age-related macular degeneration. This article characterizes Cre-mediated pathology in the CreTrp1 line to elucidate the impact of RPE degeneration on both developmental and pathologic choroidal neovascularization. Nonredundant roles of the two major components of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) family of transcription regulators, HIF1α and HIF2α, were identified. Genetic ablation of Hif1a protected against Cre-induced degeneration of RPE and choroid, whereas ablation of Hif2a exacerbated this degeneration. Furthermore, HIF1α deficiency protected CreTrp1 mice against laser-induced choroidal neovascularization, whereas HIF2α deficiency exacerbated the phenotype. Cre-mediated degeneration of the RPE in CreTrp1 mice offers an opportunity to investigate the impact of hypoxia signaling in the context of RPE degeneration. These findings indicate that HIF1α promotes Cre recombinase-mediated RPE degeneration and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization, whereas HIF2α is protective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alexander J Smith
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin R Ali
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - James W B Bainbridge
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology London, United Kingdom; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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Cheong SS, Luis TC, Stewart M, Hillier R, Hind M, Dean CH. A method for TAT-Cre recombinase-mediated floxed allele modification in ex vivo tissue slices. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050267. [PMID: 37828896 PMCID: PMC10629676 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050267] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) are used for a variety of applications. However, methods to manipulate genes in PCLS are currently limited. We developed a new method, TAT-Cre recombinase-mediated floxed allele modification in tissue slices (TReATS), to induce highly effective and temporally controlled gene deletion or activation in ex vivo PCLS. Treatment of PCLS from Rosa26-flox-stop-flox-EYFP mice with cell-permeant TAT-Cre recombinase induced ubiquitous EYFP protein expression, indicating successful Cre-mediated excision of the upstream loxP-flanked stop sequence. Quantitative real-time PCR confirmed induction of EYFP. We successfully replicated the TReATS method in PCLS from Vangl2flox/flox mice, leading to the deletion of loxP-flanked exon 4 of the Vangl2 gene. Cre-treated Vangl2flox/flox PCLS exhibited cytoskeletal abnormalities, a known phenotype caused by VANGL2 dysfunction. We report a new method that bypasses conventional Cre-Lox breeding, allowing rapid and highly effective gene manipulation in ex vivo tissue models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sek-Shir Cheong
- National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI), Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Tiago C. Luis
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Michelle Stewart
- The Mary Lyon Centre at MRC Harwell, Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Rosie Hillier
- The Mary Lyon Centre at MRC Harwell, Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Matthew Hind
- National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI), Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit at the Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Charlotte H. Dean
- National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI), Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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31
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Lancaster MS, Kim B, Doud EH, Tate MD, Sharify AD, Gao H, Chen D, Simpson E, Gillespie P, Chu X, Miller MJ, Wang Y, Liu Y, Mosley AL, Kim J, Graham BH. Loss of succinyl-CoA synthetase in mouse forebrain results in hypersuccinylation with perturbed neuronal transcription and metabolism. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113241. [PMID: 37819759 PMCID: PMC10683835 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113241] [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: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lysine succinylation is a subtype of protein acylation associated with metabolic regulation of succinyl-CoA in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Deficiency of succinyl-CoA synthetase (SCS), the tricarboxylic acid cycle enzyme catalyzing the interconversion of succinyl-CoA to succinate, results in mitochondrial encephalomyopathy in humans. This report presents a conditional forebrain-specific knockout (KO) mouse model of Sucla2, the gene encoding the ATP-specific beta isoform of SCS, resulting in postnatal deficiency of the entire SCS complex. Results demonstrate that accumulation of succinyl-CoA in the absence of SCS leads to hypersuccinylation within the murine cerebral cortex. Specifically, increased succinylation is associated with functionally significant reduced activity of respiratory chain complex I and widescale alterations in chromatin landscape and gene expression. Integrative analysis of the transcriptomic data also reveals perturbations in regulatory networks of neuronal transcription in the KO forebrain. Together, these findings provide evidence that protein succinylation plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of SCS deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makayla S Lancaster
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Byungwook Kim
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Emma H Doud
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Mason D Tate
- Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Medical Neuroscience Graduate Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Ahmad D Sharify
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Hongyu Gao
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Duojiao Chen
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Ed Simpson
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Patrick Gillespie
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Xiaona Chu
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Marcus J Miller
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yunlong Liu
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Amber L Mosley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Jungsu Kim
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Medical Neuroscience Graduate Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Brett H Graham
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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Li L, Vasan L, Kartono B, Clifford K, Attarpour A, Sharma R, Mandrozos M, Kim A, Zhao W, Belotserkovsky A, Verkuyl C, Schmitt-Ulms G. Advances in Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2725. [PMID: 37893099 PMCID: PMC10603849 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are gene therapy delivery tools that offer a promising platform for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Keeping up with developments in this fast-moving area of research is a challenge. This review was thus written with the intention to introduce this field of study to those who are new to it and direct others who are struggling to stay abreast of the literature towards notable recent studies. In ten sections, we briefly highlight early milestones within this field and its first clinical success stories. We showcase current clinical trials, which focus on gene replacement, gene augmentation, or gene suppression strategies. Next, we discuss ongoing efforts to improve the tropism of rAAV vectors for brain applications and introduce pre-clinical research directed toward harnessing rAAV vectors for gene editing applications. Subsequently, we present common genetic elements coded by the single-stranded DNA of rAAV vectors, their so-called payloads. Our focus is on recent advances that are bound to increase treatment efficacies. As needed, we included studies outside the neurodegenerative disease field that showcased improved pre-clinical designs of all-in-one rAAV vectors for gene editing applications. Finally, we discuss risks associated with off-target effects and inadvertent immunogenicity that these technologies harbor as well as the mitigation strategies available to date to make their application safer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyao Li
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
| | - Lakshmy Vasan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Bryan Kartono
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Kevan Clifford
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), 250 College St., Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Ahmadreza Attarpour
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, 101 College St., Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Raghav Sharma
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Matthew Mandrozos
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ain Kim
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Wenda Zhao
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ari Belotserkovsky
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Claire Verkuyl
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Gerold Schmitt-Ulms
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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Pohl L, Schiessl IM. Endothelial cell plasticity in kidney fibrosis and disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 239:e14038. [PMID: 37661749 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Renal endothelial cells demonstrate an impressive remodeling potential during angiogenic sprouting, vessel repair or while transitioning into mesenchymal cells. These different processes may play important roles in both renal disease progression or regeneration while underlying signaling pathways of different endothelial cell plasticity routes partly overlap. Angiogenesis contributes to wound healing after kidney injury and pharmaceutical modulation of angiogenesis may home a great therapeutic potential. Yet, it is not clear whether any differentiated endothelial cell can proliferate or whether regenerative processes are largely controlled by resident or circulating endothelial progenitor cells. In the glomerular compartment for example, a distinct endothelial progenitor cell population may remodel the glomerular endothelium after injury. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in the kidney is vastly documented and often associated with endothelial dysfunction, fibrosis, and kidney disease progression. Especially the role of EndoMT in renal fibrosis is controversial. Studies on EndoMT in vivo determined possible conclusions on the pathophysiological role of EndoMT in the kidney, but whether endothelial cells really contribute to kidney fibrosis and if not what other cellular and functional outcomes derive from EndoMT in kidney disease is unclear. Sequencing data, however, suggest no participation of endothelial cells in extracellular matrix deposition. Thus, more in-depth classification of cellular markers and the fate of EndoMT cells in the kidney is needed. In this review, we describe different signaling pathways of endothelial plasticity, outline methodological approaches and evidence for functional and structural implications of angiogenesis and EndoMT in the kidney, and eventually discuss controversial aspects in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Pohl
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Kellogg CM, Pham K, Ko S, Cox JEJ, Machalinski AH, Stout MB, Sharpe AL, Beckstead MJ, Chucair-Elliott AJ, Ocañas SR, Freeman WM. Consistent specificity and efficiency of tamoxifen-mediated cre induction across ages. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.19.558482. [PMID: 37781585 PMCID: PMC10541132 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.19.558482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Temporally controlling cre recombination through tamoxifen (Tam) induction has many advantages for biomedical research. Most studies report Tam induction at early post-natal/juvenile (<2 m.o.) mouse ages, but age-related neurodegeneration and aging studies can require cre induction in older mice (>12 m.o.). While anecdotally reported as problematic, there are no published comparisons of Tam mediated cre induction at early and late ages. Here, microglial-specific Cx3cr1 creERT 2 mice were crossed to a floxed NuTRAP reporter to compare cre induction at early (3-6 m.o.) and late (20 m.o.) ages. Specificity and efficiency of microglial labeling at 21-22 m.o. were identical in mice induced with Tam at 3-6 m.o. or 20 m.o. of age. Age-related microglial translatomic changes were also similar regardless of Tam induction age. Each cre and flox mouse line should be validated independently, however, these findings demonstrate that Tam-mediated cre induction can be performed even into older mouse ages.
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Balmas E, Sozza F, Bottini S, Ratto ML, Savorè G, Becca S, Snijders KE, Bertero A. Manipulating and studying gene function in human pluripotent stem cell models. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:2250-2287. [PMID: 37519013 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are uniquely suited to study human development and disease and promise to revolutionize regenerative medicine. These applications rely on robust methods to manipulate gene function in hPSC models. This comprehensive review aims to both empower scientists approaching the field and update experienced stem cell biologists. We begin by highlighting challenges with manipulating gene expression in hPSCs and their differentiated derivatives, and relevant solutions (transfection, transduction, transposition, and genomic safe harbor editing). We then outline how to perform robust constitutive or inducible loss-, gain-, and change-of-function experiments in hPSCs models, both using historical methods (RNA interference, transgenesis, and homologous recombination) and modern programmable nucleases (particularly CRISPR/Cas9 and its derivatives, i.e., CRISPR interference, activation, base editing, and prime editing). We further describe extension of these approaches for arrayed or pooled functional studies, including emerging single-cell genomic methods, and the related design and analytical bioinformatic tools. Finally, we suggest some directions for future advancements in all of these areas. Mastering the combination of these transformative technologies will empower unprecedented advances in human biology and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Balmas
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Sozza
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Sveva Bottini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Ratto
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Giulia Savorè
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Becca
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Kirsten Esmee Snijders
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bertero
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Turin, Torino, Italy
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Daigle N, Duan S, Song H, Lima N, Sontz R, Merchant JL, Sawyer TW. Wide field-of-view fluorescence imaging for organ-level lineage tracing of rare intestinal stem cell populations. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2023; 28:096004. [PMID: 37711357 PMCID: PMC10499363 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.28.9.096004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Significance Lineage tracing using fluorescent reporters is a common tool for monitoring the expression of genes and transcription factors in stem cell populations and their progeny. The zinc-binding protein 89 (ZBP-89/Zfp148 mouse gene) is a transcription factor that plays a role in gastrointestinal (GI) stem cell maintenance and cellular differentiation and has been linked to the progression of colon cancer. While lineage tracing is a useful tool, it is commonly performed with high-magnification microscopy on a small field of view within tissue sections, thereby limiting the ability to resolve reporter expression at the organ level. Furthermore, this technique requires extensive tissue processing, which is time consuming and requires euthanizing the animal. Further knowledge could be elucidated by measuring the expression of fluorescent reporters across entire organs with minimal tissue processing. Aim We present the application of wide-field fluorescence imaging for whole-organ lineage tracing of an inducible Zfp148-tdTomato-expressing transgenic mouse line to assess the expression of ZBP-89/Zfp148 in the GI tract. Approach We measured tdTomato fluorescence in ex vivo organs at time points between 24 h and 6 months post-induction. Fluctuations in tdTomato expression were validated by fluorescence microscopy of tissue sections. Results Quantification of the wide field-of-view images showed a statistically significant increase in fluorescent signal across the GI tract between transgenic mice and littermate controls. The results also showed a gradient of decreasing reporter expression from proximal to distal intestine, suggesting a higher abundance of ZBP-89 expressing stem cells, or higher expression of ZBP-89 within the stem cells, in the proximal intestine. Conclusions We demonstrate that wide-field fluorescence imaging is a valuable tool for monitoring whole-organ expression of fluorescent reporters. This technique could potentially be applied in vivo for longitudinal assessment of a single animal, further enhancing our ability to resolve rare stem cell lineages spatially and temporally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle Daigle
- University of Arizona, Wyant College of Optical Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Suzann Duan
- University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Heyu Song
- University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Natzem Lima
- University of Arizona, Wyant College of Optical Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | - Ricky Sontz
- University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, United States
| | | | - Travis W. Sawyer
- University of Arizona, Wyant College of Optical Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, United States
- University of Arizona, College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, United States
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Michalski MN, Williams BO. The Past, Present, and Future of Genetically Engineered Mouse Models for Skeletal Biology. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1311. [PMID: 37759711 PMCID: PMC10526739 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091311] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to create genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) has exponentially increased our understanding of many areas of biology. Musculoskeletal biology is no exception. In this review, we will first discuss the historical development of GEMMs and how these developments have influenced musculoskeletal disease research. This review will also update our 2008 review that appeared in BONEKey, a journal that is no longer readily available online. We will first review the historical development of GEMMs in general, followed by a particular emphasis on the ability to perform tissue-specific (conditional) knockouts focusing on musculoskeletal tissues. We will then discuss how the development of CRISPR/Cas-based technologies during the last decade has revolutionized the generation of GEMMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan N. Michalski
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
| | - Bart O. Williams
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
- Core Technologies and Services, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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38
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Bender AM, Parr LC, Livingston WB, Lindsley CW, Merryman WD. 2B Determined: The Future of the Serotonin Receptor 2B in Drug Discovery. J Med Chem 2023; 66:11027-11039. [PMID: 37584406 PMCID: PMC11073569 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
The cardiotoxicity associated with des-ethyl-dexfenfluramine (norDF) and related agonists of the serotonin receptor 2B (5-HT2B) has solidified the receptor's place as an "antitarget" in drug discovery. Conversely, a growing body of evidence has highlighted the utility of 5-HT2B antagonists for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), valvular heart disease (VHD), and related cardiopathies. In this Perspective, we summarize the link between the clinical failure of fenfluramine-phentermine (fen-phen) and the subsequent research on the role of 5-HT2B in disease progression, as well as the development of drug-like and receptor subtype-selective 5-HT2B antagonists. Such agents represent a promising class for the treatment of PAH and VHD, but their utility has been historically understudied due to the clinical disasters associated with 5-HT2B. Herein, it is our aim to examine the current state of 5-HT2B drug discovery, with an emphasis on the receptor's role in the central nervous system (CNS) versus the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M Bender
- Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Lauren C Parr
- Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - William B Livingston
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240, United States
| | - Craig W Lindsley
- Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - W David Merryman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240, United States
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Chinipardaz Z, Yuan G, Liu M, Graves DT, Yang S. Diabetes impairs fracture healing through Foxo1 mediated disruption of ciliogenesis. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:299. [PMID: 37591875 PMCID: PMC10435563 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01562-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Foxo1 upregulation is linked to defective fracture healing under diabetic conditions. Previous studies demonstrated that diabetes upregulates Foxo1 expression and activation and diabetes impairs ciliogenesis resulting in defective fracture repair. However, the mechanism by which diabetes causes cilia loss during fracture healing remains elusive. We report here that streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) dramatically increased Foxo1 expression in femoral fracture calluses, which thereby caused a significant decrease in the expression of IFT80 and primary cilia number. Ablation of Foxo1 in osteoblasts in OSXcretTAFoxo1f/f mice rescued IFT80 expression and ciliogenesis and restored bone formation and mechanical strength in diabetic fracture calluses. In vitro, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) impaired cilia formation in osteoblasts and reduced the production of a mineralizing matrix, which were rescued by Foxo1 deletion. Mechanistically, AGEs increased Foxo1 expression and transcriptional activity to inhibit IFT80 expression causing impaired cilia formation. Thus, our findings demonstrate that diabetes impairs fracture healing through Foxo1 mediated inhibition of ciliary IFT80 expression and primary cilia formation, resulting in impaired osteogenesis. Inhibition of Foxo1 and/or restoration of cilia formation has the potential to promote diabetes-impaired fracture healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Chinipardaz
- Department of Basic and Translation Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Periodontology, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Gongsheng Yuan
- Department of Basic and Translation Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Dana T Graves
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Shuying Yang
- Department of Basic and Translation Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- The Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Bi S, Tu Z, Chen D, Zhang S. Histone modifications in embryo implantation and placentation: insights from mouse models. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1229862. [PMID: 37600694 PMCID: PMC10436591 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1229862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation and placentation play pivotal roles in pregnancy by facilitating crucial maternal-fetal interactions. These dynamic processes involve significant alterations in gene expression profiles within the endometrium and trophoblast lineages. Epigenetics regulatory mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and microRNA expression, act as regulatory switches to modulate gene activity, and have been implicated in establishing a successful pregnancy. Exploring the alterations in these epigenetic modifications can provide valuable insights for the development of therapeutic strategies targeting complications related to pregnancy. However, our current understanding of these mechanisms during key gestational stages remains incomplete. This review focuses on recent advancements in the study of histone modifications during embryo implantation and placentation, while also highlighting future research directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilei Bi
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaowei Tu
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dunjin Chen
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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41
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Mazloum A, Karagyaur M, Chernyshev R, van Schalkwyk A, Jun M, Qiang F, Sprygin A. Post-genomic era in agriculture and veterinary science: successful and proposed application of genetic targeting technologies. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1180621. [PMID: 37601766 PMCID: PMC10434572 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1180621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene editing tools have become an indispensable part of research into the fundamental aspects of cell biology. With a vast body of literature having been generated based on next generation sequencing technologies, keeping track of this ever-growing body of information remains challenging. This necessitates the translation of genomic data into tangible applications. In order to address this objective, the generated Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data forms the basis for targeted genome editing strategies, employing known enzymes of various cellular machinery, in generating organisms with specifically selected phenotypes. This review focuses primarily on CRISPR/Cas9 technology in the context of its advantages over Zinc finger proteins (ZNF) and Transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALEN) and meganucleases mutagenesis strategies, for use in agricultural and veterinary applications. This review will describe the application of CRISPR/Cas9 in creating modified organisms with custom-made properties, without the undesired non-targeted effects associated with virus vector vaccines and bioactive molecules produced in bacterial systems. Examples of the successful and unsuccessful applications of this technology to plants, animals and microorganisms are provided, as well as an in-depth look into possible future trends and applications in vaccine development, disease resistance and enhanced phenotypic traits will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mazloum
- Federal Center for Animal Health, Vladimir, Russia
| | - Maxim Karagyaur
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Antoinette van Schalkwyk
- Agricultural Research Council-Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Onderstepoort, South Africa
- Department of Biotechnology, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ma Jun
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Fu Qiang
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
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42
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Tromp A, Wang H, Hall TE, Mowry B, Giacomotto J. Optimising the zebrafish Cre/Lox toolbox. Codon improved iCre, new gateway tools, Cre protein and guidelines. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1221310. [PMID: 37601640 PMCID: PMC10433388 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1221310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
We recently introduced the Cre/Lox technology in our laboratory for both transient (mRNA injections) and stable/transgenic experiments. We experienced significant issues such as silencing, mosaicism, and partial recombination using both approaches. Reviewing the literature gave us the impression that these issues are common among the zebrafish community using the Cre/Lox system. While some researchers took advantage of these problems for specific applications, such as cell and lineage tracing using the Zebrabow construct, we tried here to improve the efficiency and reliability of this system by constituting and testing a new set of tools for zebrafish genetics. First, we implemented a codon-improved Cre version (iCre) designed for rodent studies to counteract some of the aforementioned problems. This eukaryotic-like iCre version was engineered to i) reduce silencing, ii) increase mRNA stability, iii) enhance translational efficiency, and iv) improve nuclear translocation. Second, we established a new set of tol2-kit compatible vectors to facilitate the generation of either iCre-mRNA or iCre-transgenes for transient and transgenic experiments, respectively. We then validated the use of this material and are providing tips for users. Interestingly, during the validation steps, we found that maternal iCRE-mRNA and/or protein deposition from female transgenics systematically led to complete/homogeneous conversion of all tested Lox-responder-transgenes, as opposed to some residual imperfect conversion when using males-drivers or mRNA injections. Considering that we did not find any evidence of Cre-protein soaking and injections in the literature as it is usually conducted with cells, we tested these approaches. While soaking of cell-permeant CRE-protein did not lead to any detectable Lox-conversion, 1ng-10 ng protein injections led to robust and homogeneous Lox-recombination, suggesting that the use of protein could be a robust option for exogenous delivery. This approach may be particularly useful to manipulate housekeeping genes involved in development, sex determination and reproduction which are difficult to investigate with traditional knockout approaches. All in all, we are providing here a new set of tools that should be useful in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha Tromp
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Haitao Wang
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Thomas E. Hall
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Bryan Mowry
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol, QLD, Australia
| | - Jean Giacomotto
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Cellular Phenomics, School of Environment and Science, Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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43
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Loder S, Patel N, Morgani S, Sambon M, Leucht P, Levi B. Genetic models for lineage tracing in musculoskeletal development, injury, and healing. Bone 2023; 173:116777. [PMID: 37156345 PMCID: PMC10860167 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2023.116777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal development and later post-natal homeostasis are highly dynamic processes, marked by rapid structural and functional changes across very short periods of time. Adult anatomy and physiology are derived from pre-existing cellular and biochemical states. Consequently, these early developmental states guide and predict the future of the system as a whole. Tools have been developed to mark, trace, and follow specific cells and their progeny either from one developmental state to the next or between circumstances of health and disease. There are now many such technologies alongside a library of molecular markers which may be utilized in conjunction to allow for precise development of unique cell 'lineages'. In this review, we first describe the development of the musculoskeletal system beginning as an embryonic germ layer and at each of the key developmental stages that follow. We then discuss these structures in the context of adult tissues during homeostasis, injury, and repair. Special focus is given in each of these sections to the key genes involved which may serve as markers of lineage or later in post-natal tissues. We then finish with a technical assessment of lineage tracing and the techniques and technologies currently used to mark cells, tissues, and structures within the musculoskeletal system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn Loder
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Scaife Hall, Suite 6B, 3550 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Nicole Patel
- Center for Organogenesis and Trauma, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | | | | | | | - Benjamin Levi
- Center for Organogenesis and Trauma, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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44
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Lamenza FF, Ryan NM, Upadhaya P, Siddiqui A, Jordanides PP, Springer A, Roth P, Pracha H, Iwenofu OH, Oghumu S. Inducible TgfbR1 and Pten deletion in a model of tongue carcinogenesis and chemoprevention. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1167-1177. [PMID: 37231058 PMCID: PMC10754272 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00629-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a significant public health problem, with a need for novel approaches to chemoprevention and treatment. Preclinical models that recapitulate molecular alterations that occur in clinical HNSCC patients are needed to better understand molecular and immune mechanisms of HNSCC carcinogenesis, chemoprevention, and efficacy of treatment. We optimized a mouse model of tongue carcinogenesis with discrete quantifiable tumors via conditional deletion of Tgfβr1 and Pten by intralingual injection of tamoxifen. We characterized the localized immune tumor microenvironment, metastasis, systemic immune responses, associated with tongue tumor development. We further determined the efficacy of tongue cancer chemoprevention using dietary administration of black raspberries (BRB). Three Intralingual injections of 500 µg tamoxifen to transgenic K14 Cre, floxed Tgfbr1, Pten (2cKO) knockout mice resulted in tongue tumors with histological and molecular profiles, and lymph node metastasis similar to clinical HNSCC tumors. Bcl2, Bcl-xl, Egfr, Ki-67, and Mmp9, were significantly upregulated in tongue tumors compared to surrounding epithelial tissue. CD4+ and CD8 + T cells in tumor-draining lymph nodes and tumors displayed increased surface CTLA-4 expression, suggestive of impaired T-cell activation and enhanced regulatory T-cell activity. BRB administration resulted in reduced tumor growth, enhanced T-cell infiltration to the tongue tumor microenvironment and robust antitumoral CD8+ cytotoxic T-cell activity characterized by greater granzyme B and perforin expression. Our results demonstrate that intralingual injection of tamoxifen in Tgfβr1/Pten 2cKO mice results in discrete quantifiable tumors suitable for chemoprevention and therapy of experimental HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe F Lamenza
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nathan M Ryan
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Puja Upadhaya
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Arham Siddiqui
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Pete P Jordanides
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anna Springer
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Peyton Roth
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Hasan Pracha
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - O Hans Iwenofu
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Steve Oghumu
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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45
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Forsythe SD, Pu T, Andrews SG, Madigan JP, Sadowski SM. Models in Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Current Perspectives and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3756. [PMID: 37568572 PMCID: PMC10416968 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (pNENs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors derived from multiple neuroendocrine origin cell subtypes. Incidence rates for pNENs have steadily risen over the last decade, and outcomes continue to vary widely due to inability to properly screen. These tumors encompass a wide range of functional and non-functional subtypes, with their rarity and slow growth making therapeutic development difficult as most clinically used therapeutics are derived from retrospective analyses. Improved molecular understanding of these cancers has increased our knowledge of the tumor biology for pNENs. Despite these advances in our understanding of pNENs, there remains a dearth of models for further investigation. In this review, we will cover the current field of pNEN models, which include established cell lines, animal models such as mice and zebrafish, and three-dimensional (3D) cell models, and compare their uses in modeling various disease aspects. While no study model is a complete representation of pNEN biology, each has advantages which allow for new scientific understanding of these rare tumors. Future efforts and advancements in technology will continue to create new options in modeling these cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D. Forsythe
- Neuroendocrine Cancer Therapy Section, Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (S.D.F.); (S.G.A.); (J.P.M.)
| | - Tracey Pu
- Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Stephen G. Andrews
- Neuroendocrine Cancer Therapy Section, Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (S.D.F.); (S.G.A.); (J.P.M.)
| | - James P. Madigan
- Neuroendocrine Cancer Therapy Section, Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (S.D.F.); (S.G.A.); (J.P.M.)
| | - Samira M. Sadowski
- Neuroendocrine Cancer Therapy Section, Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (S.D.F.); (S.G.A.); (J.P.M.)
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46
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Choi HR, Kim K. Mouse Models to Examine Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Pathogenesis: Recent Updates. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11138. [PMID: 37446316 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311138] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the overall prognosis of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), the most common endocrine malignancy, is favorable, a subset of patients exhibits aggressive features. Therefore, preclinical models that can be utilized to investigate DTC pathogenesis and novel treatments are necessary. Various mouse models have been developed based on advances in thyroid cancer genetics. This review focuses on recent progress in mouse models that have been developed to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of DTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ryeon Choi
- Department of Surgery, Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul 01830, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwangsoon Kim
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
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47
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Zengel J, Wang YX, Seo JW, Ning K, Hamilton JN, Wu B, Raie M, Holbrook C, Su S, Clements DR, Pillay S, Puschnik AS, Winslow MM, Idoyaga J, Nagamine CM, Sun Y, Mahajan VB, Ferrara KW, Blau HM, Carette JE. Hardwiring tissue-specific AAV transduction in mice through engineered receptor expression. Nat Methods 2023; 20:1070-1081. [PMID: 37291262 PMCID: PMC10333121 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-023-01896-x] [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: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The development of transgenic mouse models that express genes of interest in specific cell types has transformed our understanding of basic biology and disease. However, generating these models is time- and resource-intensive. Here we describe a model system, SELective Expression and Controlled Transduction In Vivo (SELECTIV), that enables efficient and specific expression of transgenes by coupling adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors with Cre-inducible overexpression of the multi-serotype AAV receptor, AAVR. We demonstrate that transgenic AAVR overexpression greatly increases the efficiency of transduction of many diverse cell types, including muscle stem cells, which are normally refractory to AAV transduction. Superior specificity is achieved by combining Cre-mediated AAVR overexpression with whole-body knockout of endogenous Aavr, which is demonstrated in heart cardiomyocytes, liver hepatocytes and cholinergic neurons. The enhanced efficacy and exquisite specificity of SELECTIV has broad utility in development of new mouse model systems and expands the use of AAV for gene delivery in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Zengel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yu Xin Wang
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Genetic Disorders and Aging, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jai Woong Seo
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ke Ning
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James N Hamilton
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bo Wu
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marina Raie
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Colin Holbrook
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shiqi Su
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Derek R Clements
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Immunology Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sirika Pillay
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Andreas S Puschnik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Monte M Winslow
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Juliana Idoyaga
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Immunology Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Claude M Nagamine
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Palo Alto Veterans Administration, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Vinit B Mahajan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Palo Alto Veterans Administration, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Katherine W Ferrara
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Helen M Blau
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jan E Carette
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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48
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Yim YY, Nestler EJ. Cell-Type-Specific Neuroproteomics of Synapses. Biomolecules 2023; 13:998. [PMID: 37371578 PMCID: PMC10296650 DOI: 10.3390/biom13060998] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, our knowledge of synaptic proteomes and their relationship to normal brain function and neuropsychiatric disorders has been expanding rapidly through the use of more powerful neuroproteomic approaches. However, mass spectrometry (MS)-based neuroproteomic studies of synapses still require cell-type, spatial, and temporal proteome information. With the advancement of sample preparation and MS techniques, we have just begun to identify and understand proteomes within a given cell type, subcellular compartment, and cell-type-specific synapse. Here, we review the progress and limitations of MS-based neuroproteomics of synapses in the mammalian CNS and highlight the recent applications of these approaches in studying neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder and substance use disorders. Combining neuroproteomic findings with other omics studies can generate an in-depth, comprehensive map of synaptic proteomes and possibly identify new therapeutic targets and biomarkers for several central nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Young Yim
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
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49
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Rozells J, Gavornik JP. Optogenetic manipulation of inhibitory interneurons can be used to validate a model of spatiotemporal sequence learning. Front Comput Neurosci 2023; 17:1198128. [PMID: 37362060 PMCID: PMC10288026 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2023.1198128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The brain uses temporal information to link discrete events into memory structures supporting recognition, prediction, and a wide variety of complex behaviors. It is still an open question how experience-dependent synaptic plasticity creates memories including temporal and ordinal information. Various models have been proposed to explain how this could work, but these are often difficult to validate in a living brain. A recent model developed to explain sequence learning in the visual cortex encodes intervals in recurrent excitatory synapses and uses a learned offset between excitation and inhibition to generate precisely timed "messenger" cells that signal the end of an instance of time. This mechanism suggests that the recall of stored temporal intervals should be particularly sensitive to the activity of inhibitory interneurons that can be easily targeted in vivo with standard optogenetic tools. In this work we examined how simulated optogenetic manipulations of inhibitory cells modifies temporal learning and recall based on these mechanisms. We show that disinhibition and excess inhibition during learning or testing cause characteristic errors in recalled timing that could be used to validate the model in vivo using either physiological or behavioral measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey P. Gavornik
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
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Zhou Z, Li C, Tan Z, Sun G, Peng B, Ren T, He J, Wang Y, Sun Y, Wang F, Li W. A spatiotemporally controlled recombinant cccDNA mouse model for studying HBV and developing drugs against the virus. Antiviral Res 2023:105642. [PMID: 37253400 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105642] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Covalently closed circular (ccc) DNA is the template for hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication. The lack of small animal models for characterizing chronic HBV infection has hampered research progress in HBV pathogenesis and drug development. Here, we generated a spatiotemporally controlled recombinant cccDNA (rcccDNA) mouse model by combining Cre/loxP-mediated DNA recombination with the liver-specific "Tet-on/Cre" system. The mouse model harbors three transgenes: a single copy of the HBV genome (integrated at the Rosa26 locus, RHBV), H11-albumin-rtTA (spatiotemporal conditional module), and (tetO)7-Cre (tetracycline response element), and is named as RHTC mouse. By supplying the RHTC mice with doxycycline (DOX)-containing drinking water for two days, the animals generate rcccDNA in hepatocytes, and the rcccDNA supports active HBV gene expression and can maintain HBV viremia persistence for over 60 weeks. Persistent HBV gene expression induces intrahepatic inflammation, fibrosis, and dysplastic pathology, which closely mirrors the disease progression in clinical patients. Bepirovirsen, an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) targeting all HBV RNA species, showed dose-dependent antiviral effects in the RHTC mouse model. The spatiotemporally controlled rcccDNA mouse is convenient and reliable, providing versatile small animal model for studying cccDNA-centric HBV biology as well as evaluating antiviral therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongmin Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cong Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate Program in School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zexi Tan
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guoliang Sun
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate Program in School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Peng
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate Program in School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tengfei Ren
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiabei He
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yixue Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yinyan Sun
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fengchao Wang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhui Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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