Suspension-Induced Stem Cell Transition: A Non-Transgenic Method to Generate Adult Stem Cells from Mouse and Human Somatic Cells

Adult stem cells (ASCs) can be cultured with difficulty from most tissues, often requiring chemical or transgenic modification to achieve adequate quantities. We show here that mouse primary fibroblasts, grown in suspension, change from the elongated and flattened morphology observed under standard adherent culture conditions of generating rounded cells with large nuclei and scant cytoplasm and expressing the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) marker (Sca1; Ly6A) within 24 h. Based on this initial observation, we describe here a suspension culture method that, irrespective of the lineage used, mouse fibroblast or primary human somatic cells (fibroblasts, hepatocytes and keratinocytes), is capable of generating a high yield of cells in spheroid form which display the expression of ASC surface markers, circumventing the anoikis which often occurs at this stage. Moreover, mouse fibroblast-derived spheroids can be differentiated into adipogenic and osteogenic lineages. An analysis of single-cell RNA sequence data in mouse fibroblasts identified eight distinct cell clusters with one in particular comprising approximately 10% of the cells showing high levels of proliferative capacity expressing high levels of genes related to MSCs and self-renewal as well as the extracellular matrix (ECM). We believe the rapid, high-yield generation of proliferative, multi-potent ASC-like cells via the process we term suspension-induced stem cell transition (SIST) could have significant implications for regenerative medicine.

Bioethics of somatic gene therapy: what do we know so far?

OBJECTIVE

To provide a systematic overview of bioethical debate on somatic gene therapy as documented in the scientific literature.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of reasons, following Strech and Sofaer approach, which is a method to systematically identify and classify arguments (reasons) used in the scientific literature. We identified 217 eligible publications retrieved from PubMed, Lilacs, PhilPapers, and Google Scholar. A meta-synthesis was performed to analyze the data.

RESULTS

We extracted 189 arguments. Arguments were grouped into 23 categories. Twelve categories were classified as research-related, including the risk/benefit ratio, priorities and limits, informed consent, review, and monitoring. Eleven were classified as society-related, including population impact, human identity, public perception, human health.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides a database of existing challenges and arguments of somatic gene therapy and may serve as the basis of normative analysis. By presenting collected arguments, we contribute to the discussion about the ethics and social dimensions of somatic gene therapy.

Integrative CUT&Tag-RNA-Seq analysis of histone variant macroH2A1-dependent orchestration of human induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming

Aim: Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are inefficiently derived from somatic cells by overexpression of defined transcription factors. Overexpression of H2A histone variant macroH2A1.1, but not macroH2A1.2, leads to increased iPSC reprogramming by unclear mechanisms. Materials & methods: Cleavage under targets and tagmentation (CUT&Tag) allows robust epigenomic profiling of a low cell number. We performed an integrative CUT&Tag-RNA-Seq analysis of macroH2A1-dependent orchestration of iPSCs reprogramming using human endothelial cells. Results: We demonstrate wider genome occupancy, predicted transcription factors binding, and gene expression regulated by macroH2A1.1 during reprogramming, compared to macroH2A1.2. MacroH2A1.1, previously associated with neurodegenerative pathologies, specifically activated ectoderm/neural processes. Conclusion: CUT&Tag and RNA-Seq data integration is a powerful tool to investigate the epigenetic mechanisms occurring during cell reprogramming.

Cell Type-Specific Promoters of Volvox carteri for Molecular Cell Biology Studies

The multicellular green alga Volvox carteri has emerged as a valuable model organism for investigating various aspects of multicellularity and cellular differentiation, photoreception and phototaxis, cell division, biogenesis of the extracellular matrix and morphogenetic movements. While a range of molecular tools and bioinformatics resources have been made available for exploring these topics, the establishment of cell type-specific promoters in V. carteri has not been achieved so far. Therefore, here, we conducted a thorough screening of transcriptome data from RNA sequencing analyses of V. carteri in order to identify potential cell type-specific promoters. Eventually, we chose two putative strong and cell type-specific promoters, with one exhibiting specific expression in reproductive cells (gonidia), the PCY1 promoter, and the other in somatic cells, the PFP promoter. After cloning both promoter regions, they were introduced upstream of a luciferase reporter gene. By using particle bombardment, the DNA constructs were stably integrated into the genome of V. carteri. The results of the expression analyses, which were conducted at both the transcript and protein levels, demonstrated that the two promoters drive cell type-specific expression in their respective target cell types. Transformants with considerably diverse expression levels of the chimeric genes were identifiable. In conclusion, the screening and analysis of transcriptome data from RNA sequencing allowed for the identification of potential cell type-specific promoters in V. carteri. Reporter gene constructs demonstrated the actual usability of two promoters. The investigated PCY1 and PFP promoters were proven to be potent molecular tools for genetic engineering in V. carteri.

Proliferating Stem Cells are Acutely Affected by DNA Damage Induced by Sulfur Mustard

Sulfur mustard (SM), a chemical warfare agent, can form adducts with DNA, RNA, and proteins. Reactions with DNA lead to the formation of both DNA monoadducts and interstrand cross-links, resulting in DNA damage, and is an important component of SM toxicity. Our previous in vivo studies indicated that dividing cells such as hematopoietic stem cells and intestinal villi stem cells seemed to have increased sensitivity to SM. Therefore, to compare the sensitivity of somatic and stem cells to SM and to investigate the mechanism of SM cytotoxicity, we isolated human foreskin fibroblasts, reprogrammed them into pluripotent stem cells, and then compared the DNA damage repair pathways involved upon SM treatment. Our results indicated that proliferating stem cells were more sensitive to SM-induced DNA damage, and the damage mainly comprised single-stranded breaks. Furthermore, the pathways involved in DNA repair in stem cells and somatic cells were different.

A personal cost of cheating can stabilize reproductive altruism during the early evolution of clonal multicellularity

Understanding how cooperation evolved and is maintained remains an important and often controversial topic because cheaters that reap the benefits of cooperation without paying the costs can threaten the evolutionary stability of cooperative traits. Cooperation-and especially reproductive altruism-is particularly relevant to the evolution of multicellularity, as somatic cells give up their reproductive potential in order to contribute to the fitness of the newly emerged multicellular individual. Here, we investigated cheating in a simple multicellular species-the green alga Volvox carteri, in the context of the mechanisms that can stabilize reproductive altruism during the early evolution of clonal multicellularity. We found that the benefits cheater mutants can gain in terms of their own reproduction are pre-empted by a cost in survival due to increased sensitivity to stress. This personal cost of cheating reflects the antagonistic pleiotropic effects that the gene coding for reproductive altruism-regA-has at the cell level. Specifically, the expression of regA in somatic cells results in the suppression of their reproduction potential but also confers them with increased resistance to stress. Since regA evolved from a life-history trade-off gene, we suggest that co-opting trade-off genes into cooperative traits can provide a built-in safety system against cheaters in other clonal multicellular lineages.

Importance of Breed, Parity and Sow Colostrum Components on Litter Performance and Health

The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of breed and parity on colostrum components, and to associate sow breed, parity, and colostrum components with survival, growth, and the occurrence of diarrhoea of their litters. In Experiment 1, 64 sows (Duroc = 13; Landrace = 17 and Large White = 34) were included. In Experiment 2, 71 sows with different parities (1 = 10; 2 = 16; 3 = 13; 4 = 12; ≥5 = 20) were included. The number (N) of live piglets, litter body weight (Experiment 1), and the occurrence of diarrhoea (Experiment 1) were recorded at farrowing, at 2−3 days of age, and at weaning. Colostrum was analysed for proximate composition, immunoglobulins (Igs), and somatic cell count (SCC). Stepwise regressions and ANOVA models were used to associate breed, parity, and colostrum components with litter performance. The Duroc breed had the highest IgG and IgA (p < 0.005). Gilts had a higher fat% and SCC (p< 0.0001); these compounds were positively correlated (r = 0.45). Increased IgA tended to increase the N of weaned piglets (p = 0.058) and reduce litter diarrhoea (p = 0.021). The SCC increased the N of weaned piglets (p = 0.031). Overall, this study confirmed that breed and parity can influence the colostrum composition and highlighted the key role of Igs and somatic cells in piglet health.

Morphological, Ultrastructural, and Immunocytochemical Characterization and Assessment of Puma (Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771) Cell Lines After Extended Culture and Cryopreservation

Cell lines are valuable tools to safeguard genetic material from species threatened with extinction that is mainly due to human action. In this scenario, the puma constitutes a species whose population is being rapidly reduced in the ecosystems it inhabits. For the first time, we characterized puma skin-derived cell lines and assessed these cells after extended culture (experiment 1) and cryopreservation (experiment 2). Initially, we identified and characterized four dermal fibroblast lines using morphology, ultrastructure, and immunofluorescence assays. Moreover, we evaluated the effects of culture time (1st, 3rd, and 10th passages) and cryopreservation on their morphology, ultrastructure, viability, metabolism, proliferative activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and apoptosis. The cells showed a typical spindle-shaped morphology with centrally located oval nuclei. The cells were identified as fibroblasts by staining for vimentin. In vitro culture after the 1st, 3rd, and 10th passages did not alter most of the evaluated parameters. Cells in the 3rd and 10th passages showed a reduction in ROS levels (p < 0.05). The ultrastructure revealed morphological damage in the prolongments, and nuclei of cells derived from the 3rd and 10th passages. Moreover, cryopreservation resulted in a reduction in ΔΨm compared with that of noncryopreserved cells, suggesting that the optimization of cryopreservation methods for puma fibroblasts is essential. In conclusion, we found that viable fibroblasts could be obtained from puma skin, with slight changes after the 10th passage in in vitro culture and cryopreservation. This is the first report on the development of cell lines derived from pumas.

Reproductive cells and peripheral parietal cells collaboratively participate in meiotic fate acquisition in rice anthers

In flowering plants, the transition from mitosis to meiosis is the precondition for gametogenesis, which is the most crucial event during sexual reproduction. Here, we report an intriguing mechanism whereby germ cells and surrounding somatic cells cooperatively involve in the meiotic switch during anther development in rice (Oryza sativa). In double mutants with loss function of both leptotene chromosome establishment- and somatic cell layer differentiation-associated genes, chromosome morphology in the reproductive cells remains the same as that in somatic cells, and sporogenous cells fail to differentiate into pollen mother cells. OsSPOROCYTELESS and MICROSPORELESS1, two pivotal genes involved in meiosis entry, are prominently downregulated in anthers of plants with mutations in both MULTIPLE SPOROCYTE1 and LEPTOTENE 1. In addition, the transcription of redox-related genes is also affected. Therefore, germ cells and the surrounding somatic cells collaboratively participate in meiosis initiation in rice.

PSXII-7 Milk somatic cells monitoring in Russian Holstein cattle population as a base for determining genetic and genomic variability

Health traits in dairy cattle have crucial meaning to produce high quality milk. Despite of fertility problems and metabolic disorders in cows, the mastitis has a bigger economic losses influence to include it as selection criteria in cattle breeding. Somatic cell count (SCC) in that case are the good predictor for monitoring udder health cows under whole population level or separate herd. The aim of our study was to assess genetic and genomic components for SCC and their scores (SCS) using experimental dataset by seven herds with the subsequent QTL identification. For six-month observation the 5824 cows with 19786 test-day records were included into analysis. Then EBVs by offspring assessing of 139 genotyped Holstein sires were calculated trough TD Model (BLUPF90) and then it adopted as pseudo-phenotypes for GWAS. After quality control using Plink 1.90, we used ≈39K SNP (Illumina 50K). The average values for SCC and SCS were 351±7 thousands cells/ml and 2.86±0.02 score respectively. Heritability coefficients revealed low genetic variation for SCC – 0.119 and moderate for SCS – 0.211. Daily yield for cows with SCC >1000×103 cells/ml was low by -4.0 kg milk to compare individuals with SCC < 100×103 cells/ml. At the same time lactose content and freezing point were decreasing by 4.93 to 4.69% and -0.635 to -0.618°C. By Cattle QTLdb we identified some causal genes for SCC on BTA3 (ROR1), BTA9 (EZR), BTA13 (OSBPL2,DNAJC5,ZBTB46,MTG2), BTA14 (KHDRBS3) and BTA22 (RBMS3). But more relevant GWAS calls were found for SCS by BTA14 (KCNB2, ZFAT) as QTL associated to the milking speed that has unfavorable genetic correlation with clinical mastitis or SCS. Thereby, genes detected under experimental study, are the valuable and informative markers to implementation genomic selection methods for cattle health in creating Russian bulls’ reference population. The study was funded by RFBR within project No. 20-316-90050

Somatic Cell Number, Physicochemical, and Microbiological Parameters of Raw Milk of Goats During the End of Lactation as Compared by Breeds and Number of Lactations

This study was aimed for the evaluation of somatic cell count (SCC), physicochemical, and microbiological parameters during the end of lactation in the raw milk of Alpine and native Red goat breed. In the experiment, 102 milk samples from Alpine and native Red goats were included. Two different groups within the same breed were analyzed: a group consisting of animals in their first lactation and the second group consisting of animals from the fifth lactation. The milk samples were individually and daily collected during late lactation for three consecutive weeks, and milk fat, protein, lactose, SCC, and total bacteria with enterobacteria were assessed. Fresh milk of goats from late lactation period had a number of somatic cells (SC) within the expected value with log10 of 5.8–6.18 cells/ml for the compared groups. In both breeds, the total mesophilic bacteria were fewer in numbers, however, in the native Red goat, a larger population of such bacteria was enumerated. The number of coliforms and enterobacteria was below 100 cfu/ml. In the current study, we were able to show a significant difference among the studied breeds depending on lactation and season for fat (p = 0.002), but not for lactose and protein content. A positive correlation for total protein (TP), lactose, and fat as well as for lactose and SCC was found in the native Red goat breed. In the Alpine goat breed, a strong positive correlation (0.821^**) was found for lactose and enterobacteria count (EC). In conclusion, these findings evaluate different goat milk parameters during late lactation period and provide an indirect measure to monitor goat mammary gland health for both breeds.

The relationship of bovine milk somatic cell count to neutrophil level in samples of cow's milk assessed by an automatic cell counter

This research communication describes the application of a fluorescent automatic cell counter Lactoscan SCC for simultaneous determination of somatic cell count and neutrophils in bovine milk. The obtained results were compared with results obtained by a flow cytometer and a light microscope. The Pearson correlations between the methods were calculated. A comparison between the main characteristics of the three kinds of analysis was made - the assay duration and the intra-assay precision. A relation between the SCC and neutrophil cells was observed in 55 milk samples. The obtained results confirm that the simultaneous determination of SCC and neutrophil analysis are necessary and support the early diagnosis of mastitis, the timely treatment of the animal and the avoidance of major economic losses.

Rapid Detection of Mycoplasma bovis, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae in Cattle Bulk Tank Milk in Cyprus and Relations with Somatic Cell Counts

One hundred and seventy-seven (177) bulk tank milk samples were analyzed with a commercially available real-time polymerase chain reaction kit and 11 (6.21%), 41 (23.16%), and 58 (32.77%) tested positive for Mycoplasma bovis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus agalactiae, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between the presence of S. aureus and S. agalactiae. Enumeration of somatic cells was performed in the same samples by flow cytometry. The somatic cell counts were found higher in S. aureus and S. agalactiae positive samples. No association was found between M. bovis presence and somatic cells counts. Low internal assay control Ct values were found to be related with high somatic cell counts. Noticeably, this is the first report for the presence of M. bovis in Cyprus. Therefore, its presence was confirmed by bulk tank milk culture, conventional PCR, and next generation sequencing. Furthermore, M. bovis was typed with multilocus sequencing typing and was allocated to sequence type 29 (ST 29). Real-time PCR in bulk tank milk samples is a useful tool to detect mammary infections, especially for neglected pathogens such as M. bovis.

Somatic Cell Count in Goat Milk: An Indirect Quality Indicator

A high somatic cell count (SCC) impacts dairy quality to a large extent. The goal of this work was to investigate differences in goat milk composition and technological parameters according to SCC cut-off (600, 700, 800, and 1000.10³/mL). Thirty-four individual milk samples of White Shorthair goats in a similar stage of lactation were investigated. The first differences in milk quality appeared already at SCC cut-off of 600.10³/mL (5.58 LSCS-linear somatic cell score), yet the most striking differences were found for SCC over 1000.10³/mL (6.32 LSCS), which was expressed by lowering heat stability (126 vs. 217 s, p = 0.034), increasing protein (3.41 vs. 3.04%, p = 0.009), casein (2.80 vs. 2.44%, p = 0.034) and chloride (164 vs. 147 mg/100 mL, p = 0.004) levels, as well as non-fat dry matter (8.79 vs. 8.45%, p = 0.045). It has been shown that low levels of Staphylococcus spp. bacteria (120-1600 CFU/mL) in the mammary gland correlated with decreased lactose content (4.60 vs. 4.47 g/100 g, p = 0.022). Since our results indicate that even low SCC values may significantly affect the technological properties of goat milk, SCC should therefore be routinely screened and reported to dairy manufacturers to assure the consumer of high end-product quality.

Extensive SUMO Modification of Repressive Chromatin Factors Distinguishes Pluripotent from Somatic Cells

Post-translational modification by SUMO is a key regulator of cell identity. In mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), SUMO impedes reprogramming to pluripotency, while in embryonic stem cells (ESCs), it represses the emergence of totipotent-like cells, suggesting that SUMO targets distinct substrates to preserve somatic and pluripotent states. Using MS-based proteomics, we show that the composition of endogenous SUMOylomes differs dramatically between MEFs and ESCs. In MEFs, SUMO2/3 targets proteins associated with canonical SUMO functions, such as splicing, and transcriptional regulators driving somatic enhancer selection. In contrast, in ESCs, SUMO2/3 primarily modifies highly interconnected repressive chromatin complexes, thereby preventing chromatin opening and transitioning to totipotent-like states. We also characterize several SUMO-modified pluripotency factors and show that SUMOylation of Dppa2 and Dppa4 impedes the conversion to 2-cell-embryo-like states. Altogether, we propose that rewiring the repertoire of SUMO target networks is a major driver of cell fate decision during embryonic development.

•

Endogenous SUMO2/3 proteomics in ESCs and MEFs uncovers drastic SUMOylome rewiring

•

In ESCs, SUMO2/3 targets densely interconnected repressive chromatin proteins

•

In MEFs, SUMO2/3 targets key determinants of fibroblastic cell identity

•

SUMOylation of Dppa2/4 prevents conversion of ESCs to the 2C-like state

Physicochemical, Microbiological and Technological Properties of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) Milk during Lactation

Simple Summary

Milk from red deer is richer in fat and proteins than that of cow or other ruminants. The semi-captive breeding of this species has traditionally focused on meat, velvet or hunting purposes, but recent studies suggested that the high level of nutrients, the promising content of bioactive peptides and the better digestibility than that of milk from other species could open innovative alternatives for the dairy industry. As for other non-commercial mammalian species that are gaining technological interest for the elaboration of dairy products, it is necessary to understand the aptitude and performance of milk from red deer to be used for the production of cheese, fermented milks or other products. Our study aims to assess some chemical, physical, microbiological and technological properties of red deer milk during a lactation period of 18 weeks. The results show that milk from this species is similar to that of other ruminant species whose milk is commercialized. In addition, our results indicate the best period to industrialize the milk during lactation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the benefits of using red deer milk with a technological approach.

Abstract

This study describes chemical, physical, microbiological and technological characteristics of red deer milk and the effect of lactation on these parameters in order to know their potential aptitude to elaborate dairy products. During 18 weeks, milk from five hinds was monitored for composition, bacteriology, somatic cell count (SCC), physical properties and rennet coagulation. Mean values (g/100 g) for fat, protein, lactose and dry matter were 10.4, 7.1, 4.3 and 24.2, respectively, and for urea, 265 mg/100 mL. Except for lactose, a significant increase in these components was observed (p < 0.01) as lactation progressed. The average values for bacteriology and SCC were 5.3 log cfu/mL and 4.7 log cells/mL, respectively. Regarding physical properties, conductivity (mean: 2.8 ms/cm), viscosity (3.1 Cp), coordinates L* (89.9) and a* (−3.1) and milk fat globule diameter (D_4,3: 6.1 µm) increased along with lactation while density (1.038 g/mL) decreased (p < 0.01). The pH (6.7), acidity (22.9° Dornic), coordinate b* (8.4) and ethanol stability (66.6% v/v) were stable during the study period. The stage of lactation also has a significant impact on milk coagulation properties and mean curd yield was 3.29 g/10 mL. These results suggest that red deer milk could be a potential innovative source of milk for the dairy industry.

The Expression Levels and Cellular Localization of Pigment Epithelium Derived Factor (PEDF) in Mouse Testis: Its Possible Involvement in the Differentiation of Spermatogonial Cells

Pigment epithelium derived factor (PEDF) is a multifunctional secretory soluble glycoprotein that belongs to the serine protease inhibitor (serpin) family. It was reported to have neurotrophic, anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorigenic activity. Recently, PEDF was found in testicular peritubular cells and it was assumed to be involved in the avascular nature of seminiferous tubules. The aim of this study was to determine the cellular origin, expression levels and target cells of PEDF in testicular tissue of immature and adult mice under physiological conditions, and to explore its possible role in the process of spermatogenesis in vitro. Using immunofluorescence staining, we showed that PEDF was localized in spermatogenic cells at different stages of development as well as in the somatic cells of the testis. Its protein levels in testicular homogenates and Sertoli cells supernatant showed a significant decrease with age. PEDF receptor (PEDF-R) was localized within the seminiferous tubule cells and in the interstitial cells compartment. Its RNA expression levels showed an increase with age until 8 weeks followed by a decrease. RNA levels of PEDF-R showed the opposite trend of the protein. Addition of PEDF to cultures of isolated cells from the seminiferous tubules did not changed their proliferation rate, however, a significant increase was observed in number of meiotic/post meiotic cells at 1000 ng/mL of PEDF; indicating an in vitro differentiation effect. This study may suggest a role for PEDF in the process of spermatogenesis.

The end protection problem-an unexpected twist in the tail

In this perspective, we introduce shelterin and the mechanisms of ATM activation and NHEJ at telomeres, before discussing the following questions: How are t-loops proposed to protect chromosome ends and what is the evidence for this model? Can other models explain how TRF2 mediates end protection? Could t-loops be pathological structures? How is end protection achieved in pluripotent cells? What do the insights into telomere end protection in pluripotent cells mean for the t-loop model of end protection? Why might different cell states have evolved different mechanisms of end protection? Finally, we offer support for an updated t-loop model of end protection, suggesting that the data is supportive of a critical role for t-loops in protecting chromosome ends from NHEJ and ATM activation, but that other mechanisms are involved. Finally, we propose that t-loops are likely dynamic, rather than static, structures.

The relationship of excessive energy deficit with milk somatic cell score and clinical mastitis

Periparturient cows go through a period of immune suppression often marked by immune cell dysfunction. Further exacerbation of this dysfunction through early-lactation excessive energy deficit (EED) has been associated with increased susceptibility to infectious conditions such as mastitis. Our objective was to explore the association of milk somatic cell score (SCS) and clinical mastitis (CM) diagnosis in cows identified with EED, diagnosed using each of the following: blood and milk β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), milk predicted blood nonesterified fatty acid (mpbNEFA) concentrations, or milk de novo fatty acid (FA) relative percentages (rel %). We analyzed data collected from 396 multiparous Holstein cows from 2 New York farms in a prospective cohort study. Coccygeal vessel blood samples and composite milk samples were collected twice weekly from 3 to 18 days in milk (DIM) for a total of 4 time points per cow (T1, T2, T3, T4). Blood was analyzed using a hand-held meter, and milk was analyzed using Fourier-transform mid-infrared spectrometry for milk BHB and mpbNEFA concentrations, milk de novo FA rel %, and somatic cell count. Excessive energy deficit was diagnosed as blood BHB ≥ 1.2 mmol/L, milk BHB ≥ 0.14 mmol/L, mpbNEFA ≥ 0.55 mmol/L, or de novo FA ≤ 22.7 rel %, depending on the model. Clinical mastitis cultures were collected from 4 to 60 DIM by on-farm personnel. Incidence of hyperketonemia as determined by blood BHB was 13.4%, and incidence of CM was 23.9%. Separate repeated-measures ANOVA models were developed for each EED diagnostic analyte for parity groups 2, 3, and ≥4 to assess differences in SCS; t-test analyses were similarly used to assess the association of each diagnostic analyte with CM at each time point. For all diagnostic analytes, apart from milk BHB, cows diagnosed with EED tended to have lower SCS than their non-EED counterparts. This was especially apparent at T1 for all parity groups, and at T2, T3, and T4 for blood BHB and mpbNEFA. For EED diagnosis via mpbNEFA, mean SCS were lower in parity ≥4, with a difference in mean SCS between EED and non-EED animals of 0.7 SCS units, equating to a somatic cell count in EED animals approaching half that of non-EED (EED = 67,000 cells/mL, non-EED = 107,000 cell/mL). No important relationships were observed between CM diagnosis and blood BHB, milk BHB, or mpbNEFA. For de novo FA rel %, reductions in this analyte were noted before CM diagnosis at all time points. Although the relationship between EED and CM is still unclear, our findings suggest that cows in EED, diagnosed using blood BHB or mpbNEFA during the first 18 DIM, have a tendency toward lower SCS compared with their non-EED counterparts.

Patterns of host cell inheritance in the bacterial symbiosis of whiteflies

Whiteflies possess bacterial symbionts Candidatus Portiera aleyrodidium that are housed in specialized cells called bacteriocytes and are faithfully transmitted via the ovary to insect offspring. In one whitefly species studied previously, Bemisia tabaci MEAM1, transmission is mediated by somatic inheritance of bacteriocytes, with a single bacteriocyte transferred to each oocyte and persisting through embryogenesis to the next generation. Here, we investigate the mode of bacteriocyte transmission in two whitefly species, B. tabaci MED, the sister species of MEAM1, and the phylogenetically distant species Trialeurodes vaporariorum. Microsatellite analysis supported by microscopical studies demonstrates that B. tabaci MED bacteriocytes are genetically different from other somatic cells and persist through embryogenesis, as for MEAM1, but T. vaporariorum bacteriocytes are genetically identical to other somatic cells of the insect, likely mediated by the degradation of maternal bacteriocytes in the embryo. These two alternative modes of transmission provide a first demonstration among insect symbioses that the cellular processes underlying vertical transmission of bacterial symbionts can diversify among related host species associated with a single lineage of symbiotic bacteria.

Somatic feather follicle cell culture of the gallus domesticus species for creating a wild bird genetic resource bank

The creation of a genetic resource bank of avian species aims to prevent the decline and fragmentation of wild bird populations, which in turn lead to the loss of genetic diversity and, in more serious cases, the extinction of the most threatened species. In order for the collected genetic material to be stored in a bank and useful when necessary, it is essential to improve the technique ensuring its effectiveness. Thus, our study used feather follicle cells from the domestic gallus species to standardize the technique of cell culture and subsequent cryopreservation. This study aimed to establish a protocol, in vitro, of isolation and primary culture of somatic cells derived from the feather follicle, with the purpose of establishing a cell lineage, and evaluate its viability for the biobank formation. Developing feathers of gallus domesticus were collected at 12, 21 and 34 days of age. The feathers were morphologically analyzed and then we selected the region of the calamus due to the presence of pulp for cell culture and cryopreservation. The results showed that it is possible to find cells with distinct morphology; cells in elliptical shape with central nucleus also in elliptical shape, cells with shape and round nucleus, cells compatible with the fibers of the barbules, cell agglomerates and cells adhered to the bottom of the plate with fibroblastatoid shape. After 24 hours of culture there was the presence of primary culture with 80% of confluence and after cryopreservation the average viability after freezing was 68.8%, with cellular morphologies being maintained. Therefore, we proved the isolation of somatic cells from the follicle of bird's feathers, suggesting that this is a source of great value, viable and effective for obtaining biological material for the elaboration of a biobank.

Study of Milkability and Its Relation With Milk Yield and Somatic Cell in Mediterranean Italian Water Buffalo

Milkability is defined as the ability of an animal to give a regular, complete, and rapid milk secretion by the mammary gland in response to a proper milking technique. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship of milkability pattern with milk yield and somatic cell score in buffaloes. Milk yield and milkability can be observed through the milk flow profiles recorded by an electronic milkmeter (Lactocorder). A total of 2,288 milk flow curves of Mediterranean Italian buffaloes were used for one-way analysis of variance, and eight milk emission patterns were studied. The most represented milk flow curve was type 3 (27.32%), followed by type 6 (17.79%) characterized by a very long plateau phase. The less represented curve was type 1 (4.41%) characterized by long lag time and low peak flow rate. According to analysis of variance, milk yield ranged from 2.21 to 5.22 kg per milking for types 1 and 6, respectively, whereas the peak flow rate was minimum (0.50 kg/min) and maximum (1.73 kg/min) for types 1 and 4, respectively. The total milking time was on average 11.29 ± 3.68 min; lag time and milk emission time averaged 2.19 ± 2.34 min and 4.30 ± 2.33 min, respectively. The 12.5% (n = 286) of total curves were classified as bimodal and 60 of these were found in type 4. Based on literature, type 4 curves are representative of very short teat canals and very high milk flow. Average somatic cell score was 3.63 ± 1.67 units, with maximum least-squares mean found for type 1 and minimum for type 6. Buffaloes showing curves of type 5 and 6 were characterized by the greatest milk yield at milking, lowest somatic cell score, and lowest milking time. Results of the present study evidenced that such traits could be used in the dairy buffaloes as indicators to improve udder health and milkability.

COM1, a factor of alternative non-homologous end joining, lagging behind the classic non-homologous end joining pathway in rice somatic cells

The role of rice (Oryza sativa) COM1 in meiotic homologous recombination (HR) is well understood, but its part in somatic double-stranded break (DSB) repair remains unclear. Here, we show that for rice plants COM1 conferred tolerance against DNA damage caused by the chemicals bleomycin and mitomycin C, while the COM1 mutation did not compromise HR efficiencies and HR factor (RAD51 and RAD51 paralogues) localization to irradiation-induced DSBs. Similar retarded growth at the post-germination stage was observed in the com1-2 mre11 double mutant and the mre11 single mutant, while combined mutations in COM1 with the HR pathway gene (RAD51C) or classic non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway genes (KU70, KU80, and LIG4) caused more phenotypic defects. In response to γ-irradiation, COM1 was loaded normally onto DSBs in the ku70 mutant, but could not be properly loaded in the MRE11^RNAi plant and in the wortmannin-treated wild-type plant. Under non-irradiated conditions, more DSB sites were occupied by factors (MRE11, COM1, and LIG4) than RAD51 paralogues (RAD51B, RAD51C, and XRCC3) in the nucleus of wild-type; protein loading of COM1 and XRCC3 was increased in the ku70 mutant. Therefore, quite differently to its role for HR in meiocytes, rice COM1 specifically acts in an alternative NHEJ pathway in somatic cells, based on the Mre11-Rad50-Nbs1 (MRN) complex and facilitated by PI3K-like kinases. NHEJ factors, not HR factors, preferentially load onto endogenous DSBs, with KU70 restricting DSB localization of COM1 and XRCC3 in plant somatic cells.

Differential Somatic Cell Count as a Novel Indicator of Milk Quality in Dairy Cows

Recent available instruments allow to record the number of differential somatic cell count (DSCC), representing the combined proportion of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and lymphocytes, on a large number of milk samples. Milk DSCC provides indirect information on the udder health status of dairy cows. However, literature is limited regarding the effect of DSCC on milk composition at the individual cow level, as well as its relation to the somatic cell score (SCS). Hence, the aims of this study were to (i) investigate the effect of different levels of DSCC on milk composition (fat, protein, casein, casein index, and lactose) and (ii) explore the combined effect of DSCC and SCS on these traits. Statistical models included the fixed effects of days in milk, parity, SCS, DSCC and the interaction between SCS × DSCC, and the random effects of herd, animal within parity, and repeated measurements within cow. Results evidenced a decrease of milk fat and an increase in milk fatty acids at increasing DSCC levels, while protein, casein and their proportion showed their lowest values at the highest DSCC. A positive association was found between DSCC and lactose. The interaction between SCS and DSCC was important for lactose and casein index, as they varied differently upon high and low SCS and according to DSCC levels.

Short communication: Red deer (Cervus elaphus) colostrum during its transition to milk

We studied changes in chemical composition, somatic cell count, and immunoglobulin G (IgG) and M (IgM) content in red deer (Cervus elaphus) colostrum during the transition to milk at different times after parturition (<5 h, 24 h, 48 h, 2 wk, and 4 wk). The production level was higher at 2 and 4 wk of lactation than during the first day after parturition, with intermediate values at 48 h postpartum. Fat content did not vary during the study period. However, total protein and casein contents were particularly high in the initial 5 h after parturition, decreasing to approximately 50% after 24 h postpartum. Conversely, lactose concentration was low in the beginning (<5 h), increasing gradually throughout the study. Similarly, dry matter dropped during the first 24 h and then remained constant throughout the study. Urea content decreased during the study, showing a slight recovery at 4 wk. Somatic cell count was higher during the first hours after parturition and gradually decreased throughout the study period. The IgG content was higher before 5 h postpartum than at 24 h postpartum. After 5 h, the level of IgG decreased progressively until it reached 0.18 mg/mL at 4 wk of lactation. We observed a similar pattern for IgM content, but it decreased more quickly than IgG and was not detected after 2 wk. In the case of deer, milk should be considered transitional from 24 to 48 h after parturition, and samples collected after 2 wk can be considered mature milk.

Quantification of Cheese Yield Reduction in Manufacturing Parmigiano Reggiano from Milk with Non-Compliant Somatic Cells Count

The mammary gland inflammation process is responsible for an increased number of somatic cells in milk, and transfers into the milk of some blood components; this causes alterations in the chemical composition and physico-chemical properties of milk. For this reason, somatic cell count (SCC) is one of the most important parameters of milk quality; therefore, European Union (EU) Regulation no 853/2004 has stated that it must not exceed the limit value of 400,000 cells/mL. The research aimed to compare chemical composition, cheese yield, and cheesemaking losses of two groups of vat milks used for Parmigiano Reggiano production, characterized by different SCC levels. During two years, ten cheesemaking trials were performed in ten different cheese factories. In each trial, two cheesemaking processes were conducted in parallel: one with low SCC milk (below 400,000 cells/mL; Low Cell Count (LCC)) and the other with high SCC milk (400,000-1,000,000 cells/mL; High Cell Count (HCC)). For each trial, vat milk and cooked whey were analyzed; after 24 months of ripening, cheeses were weighed to calculate cheese yield. The HCC group had lower casein content (2.43 vs. 2.57 g/100 g; p ≤ 0.05) and number (77.03% vs. 77.80%; p ≤ 0.05), lower phosphorus (88.37 vs. 92.46 mg/100g; p ≤ 0.05) and titratable acidity (3.16 vs. 3.34 °SH/50 mL; p ≤ 0.05) compared to LCC. However, chloride (111.88 vs. 104.12 mg/100 g; p ≤ 0.05) and pH (6.77 vs. 6.71; p ≤ 0.05) were higher. Fat losses during cheesemaking were higher (20.16 vs. 16.13%). After 24 months of ripening, cheese yield was 8.79% lower for HCC milk than LCC (6.74 vs. 7.39 kg/100 kg; p ≤ 0.05).

Non-parametric association analysis of additive and dominance effects of casein complex SNPs on milk content and quality in Murciano-Granadina goats

Goat milk casein proteins (αS1, αS2, β and κ) are encoded by four loci (CSN1S1, CSN1S2, CSN2 and CSN3, respectively) clustered within 250 kb in chromosome 6. In this study, 159 Murciano-Granadina goats were genotyped for 48 SNPs within the entire casein region. Phenotypes on milk yield and components were obtained from 2,594 dairy registries. Additive and dominance effects on milk composition and quality were studied using non-parametric tests and principal component analysis to prevent SNPs multicollinearity. Two deletions in exon 4 (CSN1S1 and CSN3), one in exon 7 (CSN2) and one in exon 15 (CSN1S2) have been found at frequencies ranging from 0.12 to 0.50. Bonferroni-corrected significant SNP additive and dominance effects were found for milk yield, fat, protein, dry matter and lactose, and somatic cells. Exons 15 and 7 were significantly associated with milk yield and components except for lactose and somatic cells, while exon 4 was significantly associated with milk yield and components except for protein and dry matter. SNPs' associations with somatic cells were less frequent and weaker than those with milk yield and components. As caseins increase, somatic cells decrease, reducing milk enzymatic activity and consumption suitability. Hence, including molecular information in breeding schemes may promote production efficiency, as selecting against undesirable alleles could prevent the compromises derived from their dominance effects.

Relationship Between mRNA of Immune Factors Expressed by Milk Somatic Cells and Bacteria Present in Healthy Lactating Holstein Cows

Introduction

The characteristics of immune factors in somatic cells from lactating dairy cows and their association with commensal bacteria in normal milk have not been clarified. This study investigated the relationship between the pathogenic bacteria in milk and somatic cell immune factors in healthy lactating cows.

Material and Methods

In total 44 healthy Holstein cows were studied on one farm. Milk samples were collected aseptically using a cannula and these samples were cultured for detection of bacteria and analysis of mRNA of immune factors expressed by somatic cells. Cows were divided into two groups based on the microbial status of their milk samples: 12 cows showed bacteria in cultures (positive group), and the other 32 cows did not (negative group).

Results

The mRNA levels of IL-6, lactotransferrin, and cathelicidin expressed by somatic cells after milking decreased significantly compared to those before milking in both groups (P < 0.05). There were significantly lower mRNA levels of IL-6 and cathelicidin in the positive group compared to those in the negative group before milking.

Conclusion

These results suggest that mRNA levels of IL-6 and cathelicidin expressed by the somatic cells may be affected by the presence of bacteria in healthy lactating dairy cows.

Behavioral Epigenetics: Perspectives Based on Experience-Dependent Epigenetic Inheritance

Epigenetic regulation plays an important role in gene regulation, and epigenetic markers such as DNA methylation and histone modifications are generally described as switches that regulate gene expression. Behavioral epigenetics is defined as the study of how epigenetic alterations induced by experience and environmental stress may affect animal behavior. It studies epigenetic alterations due to environmental enrichment. Generally, molecular processes underlying epigenetic regulation in behavioral epigenetics include DNA methylation, post-translational histone modifications, noncoding RNA activity, and other unknown molecular processes. Whether the inheritance of epigenetic features will occur is a crucial question. In general, the mechanism underlying inheritance can be explained by two main phenomena: Germline-mediated epigenetic inheritance and interact epigenetic inheritance of somatic cells through germline. In this review, we focus on examining behavioral epigenetics based on its possible modes of inheritance and discuss the considerations in the research of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance.

Effects of indirect indicators of udder health on nutrient recovery and cheese yield traits in goat milk

In dairy goats, very little is known about the effect of the 2 most important indirect indicators of udder health [somatic cell count (SCC) and total bacterial count (TBC)] on milk composition and cheese yield, and no information is available regarding the effects of lactose levels, pH, and NaCl content on the recovery of nutrients in the curd, cheese yield traits, and daily cheese yields. Because large differences exist among dairy species, conclusions from the most studied species (i.e., bovine) cannot be drawn for all types of dairy-producing animals. The aims of this study were to quantify, using milk samples from 560 dairy goats, the contemporary effects of a pool of udder health indirect indicators (lactose level, pH, SCC, TBC, and NaCl content) on the recovery of nutrients in the curd (%REC), cheese yield (%CY), and daily cheese yields (dCY). Cheese-making traits were analyzed using a mixed model, with parity, days in milk (DIM), lactose level, pH, SCC, TBC, and NaCl content as fixed effects, and farm, breed, glass tube, and animal as random effects. Results indicated that high levels of milk lactose were associated with reduced total solids recovery in the curd and lower cheese yields, because of the lower milk fat and protein contents in samples rich in lactose. Higher pH correlated with higher recovery of nutrients in the curd and higher cheese yield traits. These results may be explained by the positive correlation between pH and milk fat, protein, and casein in goat milk. High SCC were associated with higher recovery of solids and energy in the curd but lower recovery of protein. The higher cheese yield obtained from milk with high SCC was due to both increased recovery of lactose in the curd and water retention. Bacterial count proved to be the least important factor affecting cheese-making traits, but it decreased daily cheese yields, suggesting that, even if below the legal limits, TBC should be considered in order to monitor flock management and avoid economic losses. The effect of NaCl content on milk composition was linked with lower recovery of all nutrients in the curd during cheese-making. In addition, high milk NaCl content led to reductions in fresh cheese yield and cheese solids. The indirect indicators of the present study significantly affected the cheese-making process. Such information should be considered, to adjust the milk-to-cheese economic value and the milk payment system.

Establishment of a Somatic Cell Bank for Indian Buffalo Breeds and Assessing the Suitability of the Cryopreserved Cells for Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer

Biobanks of cryopreserved gametes and embryos of domestic animals have been utilized to spread desired genotypes and to conserve the animal germplasm of endangered breeds. In principle, somatic cells can be used for the same purposes, and for reviving of animals, the somatic cells must be suitable for animal cloning techniques, such as somatic cell nuclear transfer. In the present study, we derived and cryopreserved somatic cells from three breeds of riverine and swamp-like type buffaloes and established a somatic cell bank. In total, 350 cryovials of 14 different individual animals (25 cryovials per animal) were cryopreserved and informative data such as breed value, origin, and others were documented. Immunostaining of the established cells against vimentin and cytokeratin suggested a commitment to the fibroblast lineage. In addition, microsatellite analysis was performed and documented for unambiguous parentage verification of clones in the future. Subsequently, the cryopreserved cells were tested for their suitability as nuclear donors (n = 7) using handmade cloning, and the reconstructed embryos were cultured in vitro. The cleavage rates (95.99% ± 2.17% vs. 82.18% ± 2.50%) and blastocyst rates (37.73% ± 1.54% vs. 24.31% ± 1.78%) were higher (p < 0.05) for riverine buffalo cells than that of swamp-like buffalo cells, whereas the total cell numbers of blastocysts (258.16 ± 36.25 vs. 198.16 ± 36.25, respectively) were similar. In conclusion, we demonstrated the feasibility of biobanking of buffalo somatic cells, and that the cryopreserved cells can be used to produce cloned embryos. This study encourages the development of somatic cell biobanks of domestic livestock, including endangered breeds of buffalo, to preserve valuable genotypes for future revitalization by animal cloning techniques.

Roles for Kisspeptin in proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonial cells isolated from mice offspring when the cells are cocultured with somatic cells

Kisspeptin (Kp) expression in testis has caused most of the recent research surveying its functional role in this organ. This peptide influences spermatogenesis and sperm capacitation, so it is considered as a regulator of reproduction. Kp roles exert through hypothalamic/pituitary/gonadal axis. We aimed to evaluate direct roles for Kp on proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonial cells (SCs) when the cells are cocultured with somatic cells. Somatic cells and SCs were isolated from adult azoospermic and newborn mice and then enriched using a differential attachment technique. After the evaluation of identity and colonization for SCs, the cells were cocultured with somatic cells, and three doses of Kp (10^-8 -10^-6  M) was assessed on proliferation (through evaluation of MVH and ID4 markers) and differentiation (via evaluation of c-Kit and SCP₃ , TP_1, TP₂ , and, Prm₁ markers) of the coculture system. Investigations were continued for four succeeding weeks. At the end of each level of testosterone in the culture media was also evaluated. We found positive influence from Kp on proliferative and differentiative markers in SCs cocultured with somatic cells. These effects were dose-dependent. There was no effect for Kp on testosterone level. From our findings, we simply conclude that Kp as a neuropeptide for influencing central part of reproductive axis could also positively affect peripheral processes related to spermatogenesis without having an effect on steroidogenesis.

Chemical modulation of cell fates: in situ regeneration

Chemical modulation of cell fates has been widely used to promote tissue and organ regeneration. Small molecules can target the self-renewal, expansion, differentiation, and survival of endogenous stem cells for enhancing their regenerative power or induce dedifferentiation or transdifferentiation of mature cells into proliferative progenitors or specialized cell types needed for regeneration. Here, we discuss current progress and potential using small molecules to promote in vivo regenerative processes by regulating the cell fate. Current studies of small molecules in regeneration will provide insights into developing safe and efficient chemical approaches for in situ tissue repair and regeneration.

A 100-Year Review: Advances in goat milk research

In the century of research chronicled between 1917 and 2017, dairy goats have gone from simply serving as surrogates to cows to serving as transgenic carriers of human enzymes. Goat milk has been an important part of human nutrition for millennia, in part because of the greater similarity of goat milk to human milk, softer curd formation, higher proportion of small milk fat globules, and different allergenic properties compared with cow milk; however, key nutritional deficiencies limit its suitability for infants. Great attention has been given not only to protein differences between goat and cow milk, but also to fat and enzyme differences, and their effect on the physical and sensory properties of goat milk and milk products. Physiological differences between the species necessitate different techniques for analysis of somatic cell counts, which are naturally higher in goat milk. The high value of goat milk throughout the world has generated a need for a variety of techniques to detect adulteration of goat milk products with cow milk. Advances in all of these areas have been largely documented in the Journal of Dairy Science (JDS), and this review summarizes such advances.

Tracing Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin Ab(Use) Through Gene Expression in Blood, Hair Follicles, and Milk Somatic Cells: A Matrix Comparison

The use of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) in dairy cattle is forbidden in the European Union. Due to the very low circulating concentration of rbST in treated animals, its direct detection is still a challenge. Therefore, the use of indirect methods to detect the ab(use) of rbST in dairy cattle appears as a good alternative. In the past few years, gene expression demonstrated its utility in screening the use of illicit substances in both humans and animals. In this study, a comparison of three types of matrices (milk somatic cells, blood, and hair follicles) was carried out to evaluate their potential use for routine control of rbST using 15 gene-expression profiles. A total of six rbST-treated cows and three control cows were included in the study. A subcutaneous injection containing 500 mg of rbST was administered to the treated group. Samples of the three matrices were collected before rbST administration, and at three and nine days after treatment. The quality of RNA extracted was higher in the blood and hair-follicle samples than in the milk somatic cells. In the three matrices, there were significant differences in the expression of some genes, with milk somatic cells and blood presenting the the best matrices. On this note, the cyclin D1 (CCND1), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) genes showed potential as biomarkers of rbST treatment. Therefore, blood, somatic cells, and follicle hair should be considered as promising sources of RNA, and can be used in gene-expression assays to routinely control the illicit use of rbST.

Regulatory Functions of MicroRNAs in Male Reproductive Health: A New Approach to Understanding Male Infertility

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a novel class of small noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play critical roles in regulation of gene expression, especially at posttranscriptional level. Over the past decade, the degree to which miRNAs are involved in male infertility has become clear. They are expressed in a cell- or phase-specific manner during spermatogenesis and play crucial role in male reproductive health. Therefore, dysregulation of miRNAs in testicular cells can be considered as a molecular basis for reproductive failure and male infertility. The abnormal expression pattern of miRNAs can be transmitted to the offspring via assisted reproductive techniques (ART) and results in the birth of children with a higher risk of infertility, congenital abnormalities, and morbidity. This review expounds on the miRNAs reported to play essential roles in somatic cells development, germ cells differentiation, steroidogenesis, normal spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, and male infertility, as well as emphasizes their importance as minimally invasive biomarkers of male infertility.

Glis family proteins are differentially implicated in the cellular reprogramming of human somatic cells

The ground-breaking discovery of the reprogramming of somatic cells into pluripotent cells, termed induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), was accomplished by delivering 4 transcription factors, Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc, into fibroblasts. Since then, several efforts have attempted to unveil other factors that are directly implicated in or might enhance reprogramming. Importantly, a number of transcription factors are reported to retain reprogramming activity. A previous study suggested Gli-similar 1 (Glis1) as a factor that enhances the reprogramming of fibroblasts during iPSC generation. However, the implication of other Glis members, including Glis2 and Glis3 (variants 1 and 2), in cellular reprogramming remains unknown.

In this study, we investigated the potential involvement of human Glis family proteins, including hGlis1-3, in cellular reprogramming. Our results demonstrate that hGlis1, which is reported to reprogram human fibroblasts, promotes the reprogramming of human adipose-derived stromal cells (hADSCs), indicating that the reprogramming activity of Glis1 is not cell type-specific. Strikingly, hGlis3 promoted the reprogramming of hADSCs as efficiently as hGlis1. On the contrary, hGlis2 showed a strong negative effect on reprogramming.

Together, our results reveal clear differences in the cellular reprogramming activity among Glis family members and provide valuable insight into the development of a new reprogramming strategy using Glis family proteins.

Surface Water Impacted by Rural Activities Induces Genetic Toxicity Related to Recombinagenic Events in Vivo

This investigation assessed the interaction of surface water samples with DNA to quantitatively and qualitatively characterize their mutagenic and/or recombinagenic activity. Samples were obtained at three different sites along the Tocantins River (Tocantins State, Brazil). The area has withstood the impact mainly of rural activities, which release different chemical compounds in the environment. The Drosophila melanogaster Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART) was performed in standard (ST) and high bioactivation (HB) crosses. SMART is useful for the detection of mutational and recombinational events induced by genotoxins of direct and indirect action. Results demonstrated that samples collected in both seasons were able to induce increments on the mutant spot frequencies in the larvae of the HB cross. Genotoxicity was related to a massive recombinagenic activity. The positive responses ascribed to only the HB cross means that it is linked to pro-genotoxins requiring metabolic activation. The SMART wing test in Drosophila melanogaster was shown to be highly sensitive to detect genotoxic agents present in the aquatic environment impacted by agriculture.

Ovarian differentiation and development in cachara Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum

One thousand five hundred cachara or tiger shovelnose catfish Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum, obtained from induced reproduction, were used to determine the onset of ovarian differentiation and development and to record the main characteristics of this process. Samples were collected from 0 to 240 days post-fertilization (dpf) and the results classified into stages I-XII. Ovarian formation was histologically detected for the first time when juveniles measured mean ± s.d. 51·5 ± 8·3 mm total length (LT ) at 39-45 dpf (stages I-V), with intense somatic cell proliferation originating in the ovarian cavity. Both LT and age of fish had a positive correlation (P < 0·001) with ovarian differentiation, but LT showed a greater correlation (r(2)  = 0·95) than age (r(2)  = 0·85), especially during the initial stages of development. From stages VI to VII, the ovarian cavity was enlarged and undifferentiated oogonia were present. At stage VIII, small projections formed in the ovarian stroma towards the ventral region of the gonad (future ovarian lamellae) and the basal membrane and differentiated oogonia nests could be seen. At stages IX and X, the germ cells entered meiosis and folliculogenesis was completed by stages XI and XII, which can be considered late in comparison to other Siluriformes. This study has demonstrated that ovarian differentiation in P. fasciatum begins with an intense proliferation of squamous epithelial cells (somatic cells) during the early stages of development and that sex inversion protocols could, thus, be applied successfully before this period. Furthermore, the results have demonstrated that both size and age can influence gonad differentiation and development in this species.

Relationship between Milk Microbiota, Bacterial Load, Macronutrients, and Human Cells during Lactation

Human breast milk is considered the optimal nutrition for infants, providing essential nutrients and a broad range of bioactive compounds, as well as its own microbiota. However, the interaction among those components and the biological role of milk microorganisms is still uncovered. Thus, our aim was to identify the relationships between milk microbiota composition, bacterial load, macronutrients, and human cells during lactation. Bacterial load was estimated in milk samples from a total of 21 healthy mothers through lactation time by bacteria-specific qPCR targeted to the single-copy gene fusA. Milk microbiome composition and diversity was estimated by 16S-pyrosequencing and the structure of these bacteria in the fluid was studied by flow cytometry, qPCR, and microscopy. Fat, protein, lactose, and dry extract of milk as well as the number of somatic cells were also analyzed. We observed that milk bacterial communities were generally complex, and showed individual-specific profiles. Milk microbiota was dominated by Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Streptococcus, and Acinetobacter. Staphylococcus aureus was not detected in any of these samples from healthy mothers. There was high variability in composition and number of bacteria per milliliter among mothers and in some cases even within mothers at different time points. The median bacterial load was 10(6) bacterial cells/ml through time, higher than those numbers reported by 16S gene PCR and culture methods. Furthermore, milk bacteria were present in a free-living, "planktonic" state, but also in equal proportion associated to human immune cells. There was no correlation between bacterial load and the amount of immune cells in milk, strengthening the idea that milk bacteria are not sensed as an infection by the immune system.

Hierarchal Autophagic Divergence of Hematopoietic System

Autophagy is integral to hematopoiesis and protects against leukemogenesis. However, the fundamentals of the required molecular machinery have yet to be fully explored. Using conditional mouse models to create strategic defects in the hematopoietic hierarchy, we have shown that recovery capacities in stem cells and somatic cells differ if autophagy is impaired or flawed. An in vivo Atg7 deletion in hematopoietic stem cells completely ablates the autophagic response, leading to irreversible and ultimately lethal hematopoiesis. However, while no adverse phenotype is manifested in vivo by Atg7-deficient myeloid cells, they maintain active autophagy that is sensitive to brefeldin A, an inhibitor targeting Golgi-derived membranes destined for autophagosome formation in alternative autophagy. Removing Rab9, a key regulatory protein, in alternative autophagy, disables autophagy altogether in Atg7-deficient macrophages. Functional analysis indicates that ATG7-dependent canonical autophagy is physiologically active in both hematopoietic stem cells and in terminally differentiated hematopoietic cells; however, only terminally differentiated cells such as macrophages are rescued by alternative autophagy if canonical autophagy is ineffective. Thus, it appears that hematopoietic stem cells rely solely on ATG7-dependent canonical autophagy, whereas terminally differentiated or somatic cells are capable of alternative autophagy in the event that ATG7-mediated autophagy is dysfunctional. These findings offer new insight into the transformational trajectory of hematopoietic stem cells, which in our view renders the autophagic machinery in stem cells more vulnerable to disruption.

Expression, function, and regulation of the testis-enriched heat shock HSPA2 gene in rodents and humans

The HSPA2 gene is a poorly characterized member of the HSPA (HSP70) family. HSPA2 was originally described as testis-specific and expressed at the highest level in pachytene spermatocytes of rodents, the expression of which is not induced by heat shock. HSPA2 is crucial for male fertility. However, recent advances have shown that HSPA2 is expressed in various tumors and in certain types of somatic tissues. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the HSPA2 expression pattern, including information on transcriptional, translational, posttranslational, and epigenetic mechanisms which regulate HSPA2 expression. We also present and discuss the current views concerning the functions of the HSPA2 protein in spermatogenetic, somatic, and cancer cells. The knowledge of the properties of HSPA2, although limited, shows this protein as a unique member of the HSPA family. However, understanding whether this protein could become a relevant cancer biomarker or a therapeutically applicable target requires extensive further studies.

Small RNA expression from the human macrosatellite DXZ4

Small noncoding RNAs play several roles in regulating gene expression. In the nucleus, small RNA-Argonaute complexes recruit epigenetic modifying activities to genomic sites. This pathway has been described in mammals primarily for the germline; however, its role in somatic cells is less characterized. Here, we describe in human somatic cells a potential link between the expression of small RNAs from the macrosatellite DXZ4 and Argonaute-dependent DNA methylation of this locus. DXZ4 was found to express a wide range of small RNAs potentially representing several classes of small RNAs. A subpopulation of these RNAs is bound by Argonaute. Moreover, we show AGO association with DXZ4 and that the Argonaute proteins AGO-1 and PIWIL4 may play a role in DNA methylation of DXZ4. We hypothesize that the RNAs are involved in Argonaute-dependent methylation of DXZ4 DNA.

Comet-FISH studies for evaluation of genetic damage of citalopram in somatic cells of the mouse

Damage to DNA can lead to many different acute and chronic pathophysiological conditions, ranging from cancer to endothelial damage. The present study was designed to evaluate the DNA damage of an antidepressant drug, citalopram, at the recommended human doses in somatic cells of mice in vivo. Mice exposed to citalopram at varying oral doses of 12 or 24 mg kg(-1) for 7 days exhibited a significant increase in the level of DNA-strand breaking and micronuclei formation as detected by a bone marrow comet assay and micronucleus test, respectively. Furthermore, using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis with the centromeric mouse-satellite DNA-probe for erythrocyte micronuclei it could be shown that citalopram is aneugen as well as clastogen in somatic cells in vivo. Colchicine (COL) and mitomycin C (MMC) were used as positive controls and these compounds produced the expected responses. Both the clastogenic and the aneugenic potential of citalopram can give rise to the development of secondary tumours and abnormal reproductive outcomes. Overall, the results suggest that citalopram at the recommended human doses induces some genetic alterations, which can adversely affect the normal cellular functioning in mice. The mechanism(s) by which citalopram cause this adverse effect appear related, in part, to primary DNA strand breakage as detected by the comet assay as well as clastogenic and aneugenic events as detected by the FISH assay. Therefore, the clinical use of citalopram must be weighed against the risks of genetic damages in citalopram users.

Cell-penetrating peptides: From mammalian to plant cells

Internalization of cell-penetrating peptides, well described in mammalian cell system, has recently been reported in a range of plant cells by three independent groups. Despite fundamental differences between animal cell and plant cell composition, the CPP uptake pattern between the mammalian system and the plant system is very similar. Tat, Tat-2 pVEC and transportan internalisation is concentration dependent and non saturable, enhanced at low temperature (4 degrees C), and receptor independent. The use of CPPs as nanocarrier for macromolecular delivery in plant cells is now achievable and the advances made in mammalian cells greatly enhance our understanding of cell-membrane and CPP-macromolecule complex interaction in plant. The cross membrane nanocarrier ability of CPPs promises new avenues in the field of plant biotechnology.