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1.
Biomed Mater ; 19(3)2024 Apr 25.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38604155

ABSTRACT

The standard surgical procedure for abdominal hernia repair with conventional prosthetic mesh still results in a high recurrence rate. In the present study, we propose a fibroblast matrix implant (FMI), which is a three-dimensional (3D) poly-L-lactic acid scaffold coated with collagen (matrix) and seeded with fibroblasts, as an alternative mesh for hernia repair. The matrix was seeded with fibroblasts (cellularized) and treated with a conditioned medium (CM) of human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSC). Fibroblast proliferation and function were assessed and compared between treated with CM hUC-MSC and untreated group, 24 h after seeding onto the matrix (n= 3). To study the matricesin vivo,the hernia was surgically created on male Sprague Dawley rats and repaired with four different grafts (n= 3), including a commercial mesh (mesh group), a matrix without cells (cell-free group), a matrix seeded with fibroblasts (FMI group), and a matrix seeded with fibroblasts and cultured in medium treated with 1% CM hUC-MSC (FMI-CM group).In vitroexamination showed that the fibroblasts' proliferation on the matrices (treated group) did not differ significantly compared to the untreated group. CM hUC-MSC was able to promote the collagen synthesis of the fibroblasts, resulting in a higher collagen concentration compared to the untreated group. Furthermore, thein vivostudy showed that the matrices allowed fibroblast growth and supported cell functionality for at least 1 month after implantation. The highest number of fibroblasts was observed in the FMI group at the 14 d endpoint, but at the 28 d endpoint, the FMI-CM group had the highest. Collagen deposition area and neovascularization at the implantation site were observed in all groups without any significant difference between the groups. FMI combined with CM hUC-MSC may serve as a better option for hernia repair, providing additional reinforcement which in turn should reduce hernia recurrence.


Subject(s)
Cell Proliferation , Collagen , Fibroblasts , Herniorrhaphy , Incisional Hernia , Mesenchymal Stem Cells , Rats, Sprague-Dawley , Surgical Mesh , Tissue Scaffolds , Animals , Fibroblasts/metabolism , Rats , Male , Humans , Mesenchymal Stem Cells/cytology , Herniorrhaphy/methods , Herniorrhaphy/instrumentation , Collagen/chemistry , Tissue Scaffolds/chemistry , Incisional Hernia/surgery , Polyesters/chemistry , Materials Testing , Culture Media, Conditioned/pharmacology , Biocompatible Materials/chemistry , Cells, Cultured , Hernia, Abdominal/surgery , Umbilical Cord/cytology
2.
Nat Commun ; 12(1): 6974, 2021 11 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34848713

ABSTRACT

The phenomenon of tissue fluidity-cells' ability to rearrange relative to each other in confluent tissues-has been linked to several morphogenetic processes and diseases, yet few molecular regulators of tissue fluidity are known. Ommatidial rotation (OR), directed by planar cell polarity signaling, occurs during Drosophila eye morphogenesis and shares many features with polarized cellular migration in vertebrates. We utilize in vivo live imaging analysis tools to quantify dynamic cellular morphologies during OR, revealing that OR is driven autonomously by ommatidial cell clusters rotating in successive pulses within a permissive substrate. Through analysis of a rotation-specific nemo mutant, we demonstrate that precise regulation of junctional E-cadherin levels is critical for modulating the mechanical properties of the tissue to allow rotation to progress. Our study defines Nemo as a molecular tool to induce a transition from solid-like tissues to more viscoelastic tissues broadening our molecular understanding of tissue fluidity.


Subject(s)
Adherens Junctions , Cell Polarity , Extracellular Fluid , Adherens Junctions/genetics , Adherens Junctions/metabolism , Animals , Cadherins , Cell Polarity/genetics , Cell Polarity/physiology , Drosophila/genetics , Drosophila Proteins/genetics , Drosophila Proteins/metabolism , Ectoderm , Eye/cytology , Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/genetics , Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism , Morphogenesis , Wings, Animal/cytology
3.
J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater ; 109(5): 723-732, 2021 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33063448

ABSTRACT

Orthotopic liver transplantation is presently the most effectual method for the treatment of end-stage liver diseases. Though, one major issue is the restricted number of donor organs that are accessible. Hence, liver tissue engineering is under investigation with the goal of restoring liver functions. In this study, we investigated 3D porous scaffolds made of PLLA coated with a nano thick collagen layer (matrices). Primary rat dermal fibroblasts were used in a first study phase to check matrices' cytocompatibility. More than 70% of seeded cells could adhere and remain viable 24 and 48 hours after the seeding. To test the suitability of the matrices for human primary hepatocytes, HepaRG cells were seeded and analyzed for viability, adhesion rate, and functionality such as albumin secretion. About 80% of seeded HepaRG adhered to the scaffolds remaining viable up to 72 hours. Cells were homogeneously distributed in the entire scaffold with albumin secretion increasing with time. Our results indicate that PLLA collagen-coated matrices allow hepatocytes attachment and distribution throughout the 3D structure, as well as support cell functionality. Such matrices have been applied in our clinical phase II trial. Functional hepatocytes were successfully implanted in patients suffering from liver-cirrhosis with higher cell numbers and adhesions rate compared to our previous trial with the first matrix type and a general improvement in clinical condition.


Subject(s)
Collagen/chemistry , Fibroblasts/cytology , Hepatocytes/cytology , Nanostructures/chemistry , Polyesters/chemistry , Tissue Scaffolds/chemistry , Animals , Cell Line , Extracellular Matrix , Male , Microscopy, Electron, Scanning , Polyesters/metabolism , Porosity , Rats , Rats, Sprague-Dawley , Swine , Tetrazolium Salts/chemistry , Thiazoles/chemistry , Tissue Engineering/methods
4.
PLoS One ; 15(12): e0243732, 2020.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33332460

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Chronic rhinosinusitis may be associated with nasal polyposis. Recurrence of disease is often observed and may be due to an intolerance of acetylsalicylic acid. Sex hormones are known to modulate allergic reactions and inflammation. Whether they may be involved in the development and progression of nasal polyposis has not been investigated yet. AIM: Examine the relationship between levels of sex hormones and nasal polyposis. METHODS: Hormonal levels (estradiol, testosterone and progesterone) in patients with nasal polyposis (n = 26) with or without acetylsalicylic acid-intolerance were determined and compared to hormonal levels in patients with septal deviation (n = 35). Cone-beam computed tomography scans were analysed by using scores as defined by Lund and Mackay and by Kennedy. RESULTS: Our results show a 5 times greater odds (p = 0.01) for developing nasal polyposis in the presence of lowered estradiol plasma levels than in the presence of normal / elevated levels. When analyzing females and males separately, a 6 times greater odds for females to develop nasal polyposis in the presence of lowered estradiol plasma levels was calculated (p = 0.02). Thus, females are more likely to develop nasal polyposis when they have lowered estradiol levels than males. In addition, female patients showed an increased risk for developing ASA intolerance (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: Variation of sex hormones may be involved in nasal polyposis. Further studies including more patients to validate the presented results are required. SIGNIFICANCE: Retrospective clinical investigation suggesting a correlation between varying sex hormones and nasal polyposis.


Subject(s)
Aspirin/adverse effects , Drug Hypersensitivity/epidemiology , Estradiol/blood , Nasal Polyps/immunology , Progesterone/blood , Testosterone/blood , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Chronic Disease , Cone-Beam Computed Tomography , Drug Hypersensitivity/blood , Drug Hypersensitivity/immunology , Estradiol/immunology , Female , Humans , Incidence , Male , Middle Aged , Nasal Mucosa/diagnostic imaging , Nasal Polyps/blood , Nasal Polyps/diagnosis , Progesterone/immunology , Recurrence , Retrospective Studies , Rhinitis/blood , Rhinitis/chemically induced , Rhinitis/epidemiology , Rhinitis/immunology , Sinusitis/blood , Sinusitis/chemically induced , Sinusitis/epidemiology , Sinusitis/immunology , Testosterone/immunology , Young Adult
5.
Int J Hepatol ; 2020: 5410359, 2020.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33123384

ABSTRACT

The human autologous hepatocyte matrix implant is a promising alternative procedure to counter liver damage. We assessed the outcome of human hepatocytes isolation from cirrhotic liver compared to the clinical and histological scores of disease severity. A total of 11 patients with various clinical scores (CTP and MELD) and histological score (Metavir, fibrosis) of liver cirrhosis were included in the hepatocyte matrix implant clinical phase I study. The liver segment and pancreatic tissue were harvested from each patient, and hepatocytes and cells of islets of Langerhans were isolated. The freshly isolated human hepatocytes were coseeded with the islet cells onto poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) scaffolds, cultured, and transplanted back into the patient. Human hepatocytes were isolated from 11 cirrhotic liver specimens with a resulting yield of 1.4 ± 0.5 × 106 cells per gram of the liver specimen and a viability rate of 52 ± 13%. It was found that the yield and viability of the liver cells were not correlated with the clinical and histological scores of the liver cirrhosis. A correlation was found between the hepatocyte yield obtained and the average number of hepatocytes counted in 10 microscopic fields of view. More viable cells were obtained from cirrhotic livers caused by chronic hepatitis B as compared to chronic hepatitis C in the same MELD score range. There was no correlation between the clinical and histological disease severity scores of liver cirrhosis and the outcome of hepatocytes isolation. It seems that the yield could depend on the type of hepatitis underlying the cirrhotic tissue. The study was registered at www.clinicaltrial.gov with the study identifier: NCT01335568.

6.
PLoS Genet ; 14(5): e1007391, 2018 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29758044

ABSTRACT

Planar cell polarity (PCP) instructs tissue patterning in a wide range of organisms from fruit flies to humans. PCP signaling coordinates cell behavior across tissues and is integrated by cells to couple cell fate identity with position in a developing tissue. In the fly eye, PCP signaling is required for the specification of R3 and R4 photoreceptors based upon their positioning relative to the dorso-ventral axis. The 'core' PCP pathway involves the asymmetric localization of two distinct membrane-bound complexes, one containing Frizzled (Fz, required in R3) and the other Van Gogh (Vang, required in R4). Inhibitory interactions between the cytosolic components of each complex reinforce asymmetric localization. Prickle (Pk) and Spiny-legs (Pk-Sple) are two antagonistic isoforms of the prickle (pk) gene and are cytoplasmic components of the Vang complex. The balance between their levels is critical for tissue patterning, with Pk-Sple being the major functional isoform in the eye. Here we uncover a post-translational role for Nemo kinase in limiting the amount of the minor isoform Pk. We identified Pk as a Nemo substrate in a genome-wide in vitro band-shift screen. In vivo, nemo genetically interacts with pkpk but not pksple and enhances PCP defects in the eye and leg. Nemo phosphorylation limits Pk levels and is required specifically in the R4 photoreceptor like the major isoform, Pk-Sple. Genetic interaction and biochemical data suggest that Nemo phosphorylation of Pk leads to its proteasomal degradation via the Cullin1/SkpA/Slmb complex. dTAK and Homeodomain interacting protein kinase (Hipk) may also act together with Nemo to target Pk for degradation, consistent with similar observations in mammalian studies. Our results therefore demonstrate a mechanism to maintain low levels of the minor Pk isoform, allowing PCP complexes to form correctly and specify cell fate.


Subject(s)
Cell Polarity/genetics , DNA-Binding Proteins/genetics , Drosophila Proteins/genetics , LIM Domain Proteins/genetics , Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/genetics , Animals , Animals, Genetically Modified , Cell Line , DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism , Drosophila Proteins/metabolism , Drosophila melanogaster/genetics , Drosophila melanogaster/metabolism , Eye/cytology , Eye/metabolism , Frizzled Receptors/genetics , Frizzled Receptors/metabolism , LIM Domain Proteins/metabolism , Membrane Proteins/genetics , Membrane Proteins/metabolism , Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism , Phosphorylation , Protein Isoforms/genetics , Protein Isoforms/metabolism , Proteolysis , Signal Transduction/genetics , Substrate Specificity , Wings, Animal/cytology , Wings, Animal/metabolism
7.
Dev Cell ; 45(4): 481-495.e8, 2018 05 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29754800

ABSTRACT

Cell and organelle membranes consist of a complex mixture of phospholipids (PLs) that determine their size, shape, and function. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is the most abundant phospholipid in eukaryotic membranes, yet how cells sense and regulate its levels in vivo remains unclear. Here we show that PCYT1A, the rate-limiting enzyme of PC synthesis, is intranuclear and re-locates to the nuclear membrane in response to the need for membrane PL synthesis in yeast, fly, and mammalian cells. By aligning imaging with lipidomic analysis and data-driven modeling, we demonstrate that yeast PCYT1A membrane association correlates with membrane stored curvature elastic stress estimates. Furthermore, this process occurs inside the nucleus, although nuclear localization signal mutants can compensate for the loss of endogenous PCYT1A in yeast and in fly photoreceptors. These data suggest an ancient mechanism by which nucleoplasmic PCYT1A senses surface PL packing defects on the inner nuclear membrane to control PC homeostasis.


Subject(s)
Cell Membrane/chemistry , Cell Nucleus/chemistry , Choline-Phosphate Cytidylyltransferase/metabolism , Elasticity , Nuclear Envelope/chemistry , Phosphatidylcholines/metabolism , Stress, Physiological , Animals , Cell Membrane/metabolism , Cell Nucleus/metabolism , Choline-Phosphate Cytidylyltransferase/genetics , Drosophila melanogaster/genetics , Drosophila melanogaster/growth & development , Drosophila melanogaster/metabolism , Homeostasis , Male , Mice , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Models, Biological , Nuclear Envelope/genetics , Nuclear Envelope/metabolism , Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics , Saccharomyces cerevisiae/growth & development , Saccharomyces cerevisiae/metabolism
8.
PLoS Genet ; 14(1): e1007153, 2018 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29309414

ABSTRACT

AKAP200 is a Drosophila melanogaster member of the "A Kinase Associated Protein" family of scaffolding proteins, known for their role in the spatial and temporal regulation of Protein Kinase A (PKA) in multiple signaling contexts. Here, we demonstrate an unexpected function of AKAP200 in promoting Notch protein stability. In Drosophila, AKAP200 loss-of-function (LOF) mutants show phenotypes that resemble Notch LOF defects, including eye patterning and sensory organ specification defects. Through genetic interactions, we demonstrate that AKAP200 interacts positively with Notch in both the eye and the thorax. We further show that AKAP200 is part of a physical complex with Notch. Biochemical studies reveal that AKAP200 stabilizes endogenous Notch protein, and that it limits ubiquitination of Notch. Specifically, our genetic and biochemical evidence indicates that AKAP200 protects Notch from the E3-ubiquitin ligase Cbl, which targets Notch to the lysosomal pathway. Indeed, we demonstrate that the effect of AKAP200 on Notch levels depends on the lysosome. Interestingly, this function of AKAP200 is fully independent of its role in PKA signaling and independent of its ability to bind PKA. Taken together, our data indicate that AKAP200 is a novel tissue specific posttranslational regulator of Notch, maintaining high Notch protein levels and thus promoting Notch signaling.


Subject(s)
A Kinase Anchor Proteins/physiology , Drosophila Proteins/metabolism , Drosophila Proteins/physiology , Drosophila melanogaster , Lysosomes/metabolism , Membrane Proteins/physiology , Proteolysis , Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-cbl/metabolism , Receptors, Notch/metabolism , A Kinase Anchor Proteins/genetics , Animals , Animals, Genetically Modified , Drosophila Proteins/genetics , Drosophila melanogaster/genetics , Drosophila melanogaster/growth & development , Drosophila melanogaster/metabolism , Larva , Membrane Proteins/genetics , Protein Stability , Signal Transduction/genetics , Wings, Animal/growth & development , Wings, Animal/metabolism
9.
Nature ; 547(7663): 311-317, 2017 07 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28726821

ABSTRACT

Current therapies for medulloblastoma, a highly malignant childhood brain tumour, impose debilitating effects on the developing child, and highlight the need for molecularly targeted treatments with reduced toxicity. Previous studies have been unable to identify the full spectrum of driver genes and molecular processes that operate in medulloblastoma subgroups. Here we analyse the somatic landscape across 491 sequenced medulloblastoma samples and the molecular heterogeneity among 1,256 epigenetically analysed cases, and identify subgroup-specific driver alterations that include previously undiscovered actionable targets. Driver mutations were confidently assigned to most patients belonging to Group 3 and Group 4 medulloblastoma subgroups, greatly enhancing previous knowledge. New molecular subtypes were differentially enriched for specific driver events, including hotspot in-frame insertions that target KBTBD4 and 'enhancer hijacking' events that activate PRDM6. Thus, the application of integrative genomics to an extensive cohort of clinical samples derived from a single childhood cancer entity revealed a series of cancer genes and biologically relevant subtype diversity that represent attractive therapeutic targets for the treatment of patients with medulloblastoma.


Subject(s)
DNA Mutational Analysis , Genome, Human/genetics , Medulloblastoma/classification , Medulloblastoma/genetics , Whole Genome Sequencing , Carcinogenesis/genetics , Carrier Proteins/genetics , Cohort Studies , DNA Methylation , Datasets as Topic , Epistasis, Genetic , Genomics , Humans , Molecular Targeted Therapy , Muscle Proteins/genetics , Mutation , Oncogenes/genetics , Transcription Factors/genetics , Wnt Proteins/genetics
10.
Pancreatology ; 17(3): 411-418, 2017.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28347646

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the effects of allogeneic islet cell matrix implants for glycaemic control in rats with induced diabetes. METHOD: Sprague-Dawley rats were used as allogeneic donors of islet cells. Cells were seeded on three-dimensional proprietary poly-(l-lactide) matrices. Animals were rendered diabetic and a week later a matrix seeded with islet cells (IMI group) or a control matrix (placebo group) was implanted in the small bowel mesentery. Blood glucose levels were measured weekly for 12 weeks. After sacrifice, implant sections were Gomori stained for beta-cells and immuno-stained for insulin 3, 4, 5, and 6 months post implantation. RESULTS: 82% of seeded islet cells attached to the matrices. In the IMI group blood glucose levels were significantly reduced after implantation compared with before implantation across several time points. In the IMI group beta-cells and insulin-positive cells were identified at the implant site. CONCLUSION: The islet cell matrix implant reduced the blood glucose levels although complete normo-glycaemia was not established. The islet cell matrix implant may serve as an additional option for islet cell transplantation using 3D scaffold platforms for better survival and function of the islet cells.


Subject(s)
Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/therapy , Hyperglycemia/therapy , Islets of Langerhans Transplantation/methods , Islets of Langerhans , Animals , Blood Glucose/metabolism , Body Weight , Cell Culture Techniques , Cell Separation , Cell Survival , Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/complications , Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/pathology , Hyperglycemia/etiology , Insulin/biosynthesis , Islets of Langerhans/metabolism , Male , Polyesters , Rats , Rats, Sprague-Dawley
11.
Dev Cell ; 40(1): 53-66, 2017 01 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28041906

ABSTRACT

The Anaphase-Promoting Complex/Cyclosome (APC/C) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase, well known for its role in cell-cycle progression. However, it has been linked to additional functions, mainly in neuronal contexts, when using the co-activator Cdh1/Fzr. Here, our data indicate a post-mitotic requirement for the APC/CFzr/Cdh1 in epithelial cell patterning and planar cell polarity (PCP) in Drosophila. PCP signaling is critical for development by establishing cellular asymmetries and orientation within the plane of an epithelium, via differential localization of distinct complexes of core PCP factors. Loss of APC/C function leads to reduced levels of Dishevelled (Dsh), a core PCP factor. The effect of APC/C on Dsh is mediated by Nek2 kinase, which can phosphorylate Dsh and is a direct APC/CFzr/Cdh1 substrate. We have thus uncovered a pathway of regulation whereby APC/CFzr/Cdh1 negatively regulates Nek2, which negatively regulates Dsh, to ensure its proper stoichiometric requirement and localization during PCP establishment.


Subject(s)
Anaphase-Promoting Complex-Cyclosome/metabolism , Cell Polarity , Dishevelled Proteins/metabolism , Drosophila Proteins/metabolism , Drosophila melanogaster/cytology , Drosophila melanogaster/enzymology , Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism , Animals , Cell Cycle , Eye/cytology , Eye/enzymology , Gene Knockdown Techniques , Proteasome Endopeptidase Complex/metabolism , Wings, Animal/cytology , Wings, Animal/enzymology
12.
Nat Commun ; 6: 6751, 2015 Apr 07.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25849195

ABSTRACT

A key step in generating planar cell polarity (PCP) is the formation of restricted junctional domains containing Frizzled/Dishevelled/Diego (Fz/Dsh/Dgo) or Van Gogh/Prickle (Vang/Pk) complexes within the same cell, stabilized via Flamingo (Fmi) across cell membranes. Although models have been proposed for how these complexes acquire and maintain their polarized localization, the machinery involved in moving core PCP proteins around cells remains unknown. We describe the AP-1 adaptor complex and Arf1 as major regulators of PCP protein trafficking in vivo. AP-1 and Arf1 disruption affects the accumulation of Fz/Fmi and Vang/Fmi complexes in the proximo-distal axis, producing severe PCP phenotypes. Using novel tools, we demonstrate a direct and specific Arf1 involvement in Fz trafficking in vivo. Moreover, we uncover a conserved Arf1 PCP function in vertebrates. Our data support a model whereby the trafficking machinery plays an important part during PCP establishment, promoting formation of polarized PCP-core complexes in vivo.


Subject(s)
ADP-Ribosylation Factor 1/genetics , Adaptor Protein Complex 1/genetics , Cell Polarity/genetics , Drosophila Proteins/genetics , Drosophila/embryology , Wings, Animal/embryology , Zebrafish Proteins/genetics , Zebrafish/embryology , Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing/metabolism , Animals , Animals, Genetically Modified , Cadherins/metabolism , Carrier Proteins/metabolism , DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism , Dishevelled Proteins , Drosophila/metabolism , Drosophila Proteins/metabolism , Early Growth Response Protein 2/genetics , Early Growth Response Protein 2/metabolism , Frizzled Receptors/metabolism , Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental , LIM Domain Proteins/metabolism , Membrane Proteins/metabolism , MyoD Protein/genetics , MyoD Protein/metabolism , Phosphoproteins/metabolism , Zebrafish/metabolism , Zebrafish Proteins/metabolism
13.
Nature ; 511(7510): 428-34, 2014 Jul 24.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25043047

ABSTRACT

Medulloblastoma is a highly malignant paediatric brain tumour currently treated with a combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, posing a considerable burden of toxicity to the developing child. Genomics has illuminated the extensive intertumoral heterogeneity of medulloblastoma, identifying four distinct molecular subgroups. Group 3 and group 4 subgroup medulloblastomas account for most paediatric cases; yet, oncogenic drivers for these subtypes remain largely unidentified. Here we describe a series of prevalent, highly disparate genomic structural variants, restricted to groups 3 and 4, resulting in specific and mutually exclusive activation of the growth factor independent 1 family proto-oncogenes, GFI1 and GFI1B. Somatic structural variants juxtapose GFI1 or GFI1B coding sequences proximal to active enhancer elements, including super-enhancers, instigating oncogenic activity. Our results, supported by evidence from mouse models, identify GFI1 and GFI1B as prominent medulloblastoma oncogenes and implicate 'enhancer hijacking' as an efficient mechanism driving oncogene activation in a childhood cancer.


Subject(s)
DNA-Binding Proteins/genetics , Enhancer Elements, Genetic/genetics , Genomic Structural Variation/genetics , Medulloblastoma/genetics , Oncogenes/genetics , Proto-Oncogene Proteins/genetics , Repressor Proteins/genetics , Transcription Factors/genetics , Animals , Child , Chromosomes, Human, Pair 9/genetics , DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism , Humans , Medulloblastoma/classification , Medulloblastoma/pathology , Mice , Proto-Oncogene Proteins/metabolism , Repressor Proteins/metabolism , Transcription Factors/metabolism
14.
PLoS One ; 9(6): e96933, 2014.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24915236

ABSTRACT

Krüppel like factors (KLFs) are conserved transcription factors that have been implicated in many developmental processes including differentiation, organ patterning, or regulation of stem cell pluripotency. We report the generation and analysis of loss-of-function mutants of Drosophila Klf6/7, the luna gene. We demonstrate that luna mutants are associated with very early embryonic defects prior to cellularization at the syncytial stage and cause DNA separation defects during the rapid mitotic cycles resulting in un-coupled DNA and centrosome cycles. These defects manifest themselves, both in animals that are maternally homozygous and heterozygous mutant. Surprisingly, luna is only required during the syncytial stages and not later in development, suggesting that the DNA segregation defect is linked to centrosomes, since centrosomes are dispensable for later cell divisions.


Subject(s)
Blastoderm/metabolism , Centrosome/metabolism , Drosophila Proteins/metabolism , Drosophila/genetics , Transcription Factors/metabolism , Animals , Chromosome Segregation , Drosophila/embryology , Drosophila/metabolism , Drosophila Proteins/genetics , Mitosis , Mutation , Transcription Factors/genetics
15.
Nature ; 510(7506): 537-41, 2014 Jun 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24847876

ABSTRACT

Epigenetic alterations, that is, disruption of DNA methylation and chromatin architecture, are now acknowledged as a universal feature of tumorigenesis. Medulloblastoma, a clinically challenging, malignant childhood brain tumour, is no exception. Despite much progress from recent genomics studies, with recurrent changes identified in each of the four distinct tumour subgroups (WNT-pathway-activated, SHH-pathway-activated, and the less-well-characterized Group 3 and Group 4), many cases still lack an obvious genetic driver. Here we present whole-genome bisulphite-sequencing data from thirty-four human and five murine tumours plus eight human and three murine normal controls, augmented with matched whole-genome, RNA and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing data. This comprehensive data set allowed us to decipher several features underlying the interplay between the genome, epigenome and transcriptome, and its effects on medulloblastoma pathophysiology. Most notable were highly prevalent regions of hypomethylation correlating with increased gene expression, extending tens of kilobases downstream of transcription start sites. Focal regions of low methylation linked to transcription-factor-binding sites shed light on differential transcriptional networks between subgroups, whereas increased methylation due to re-normalization of repressed chromatin in DNA methylation valleys was positively correlated with gene expression. Large, partially methylated domains affecting up to one-third of the genome showed increased mutation rates and gene silencing in a subgroup-specific fashion. Epigenetic alterations also affected novel medulloblastoma candidate genes (for example, LIN28B), resulting in alternative promoter usage and/or differential messenger RNA/microRNA expression. Analysis of mouse medulloblastoma and precursor-cell methylation demonstrated a somatic origin for many alterations. Our data provide insights into the epigenetic regulation of transcription and genome organization in medulloblastoma pathogenesis, which are probably also of importance in a wider developmental and disease context.


Subject(s)
DNA Methylation/genetics , Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic , Gene Silencing , Medulloblastoma/genetics , Sequence Analysis, DNA/methods , Animals , Binding Sites , Cell Line, Tumor , Chromatin/genetics , Chromatin/metabolism , Chromatin Immunoprecipitation , Female , Genome/genetics , Histones/metabolism , Humans , Medulloblastoma/pathology , Mice , Promoter Regions, Genetic/genetics , RNA-Binding Proteins/genetics , Transcription Factors/metabolism , Transcription, Genetic
16.
Cancer Cell ; 25(3): 393-405, 2014 Mar 17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24651015

ABSTRACT

Smoothened (SMO) inhibitors recently entered clinical trials for sonic-hedgehog-driven medulloblastoma (SHH-MB). Clinical response is highly variable. To understand the mechanism(s) of primary resistance and identify pathways cooperating with aberrant SHH signaling, we sequenced and profiled a large cohort of SHH-MBs (n = 133). SHH pathway mutations involved PTCH1 (across all age groups), SUFU (infants, including germline), and SMO (adults). Children >3 years old harbored an excess of downstream MYCN and GLI2 amplifications and frequent TP53 mutations, often in the germline, all of which were rare in infants and adults. Functional assays in different SHH-MB xenograft models demonstrated that SHH-MBs harboring a PTCH1 mutation were responsive to SMO inhibition, whereas tumors harboring an SUFU mutation or MYCN amplification were primarily resistant.


Subject(s)
Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics , Hedgehog Proteins/genetics , Medulloblastoma/genetics , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/antagonists & inhibitors , Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics , Adolescent , Adult , Animals , Base Sequence , Biphenyl Compounds/therapeutic use , Cerebellar Neoplasms/drug therapy , Cerebellar Neoplasms/genetics , Child , Child, Preschool , DEAD-box RNA Helicases/genetics , DNA Copy Number Variations/genetics , Female , Gene Expression Profiling , High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing , Humans , Infant , Kruppel-Like Transcription Factors/genetics , Male , Medulloblastoma/drug therapy , Mice , Mice, Inbred NOD , Mice, SCID , Molecular Sequence Data , N-Myc Proto-Oncogene Protein , Neoplasm Transplantation , Nuclear Proteins/genetics , Oncogene Proteins/genetics , Patched Receptors , Patched-1 Receptor , Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/genetics , Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/metabolism , Promoter Regions, Genetic/genetics , Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/genetics , Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism , Pyridines/therapeutic use , Receptors, Cell Surface/genetics , Repressor Proteins/genetics , Signal Transduction/genetics , Smoothened Receptor , Telomerase/genetics , Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/genetics , Young Adult , Zinc Finger Protein Gli2
17.
Nat Genet ; 45(8): 927-32, 2013 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-23817572

ABSTRACT

Pilocytic astrocytoma, the most common childhood brain tumor, is typically associated with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway alterations. Surgically inaccessible midline tumors are therapeutically challenging, showing sustained tendency for progression and often becoming a chronic disease with substantial morbidities. Here we describe whole-genome sequencing of 96 pilocytic astrocytomas, with matched RNA sequencing (n = 73), conducted by the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) PedBrain Tumor Project. We identified recurrent activating mutations in FGFR1 and PTPN11 and new NTRK2 fusion genes in non-cerebellar tumors. New BRAF-activating changes were also observed. MAPK pathway alterations affected all tumors analyzed, with no other significant mutations identified, indicating that pilocytic astrocytoma is predominantly a single-pathway disease. Notably, we identified the same FGFR1 mutations in a subset of H3F3A-mutated pediatric glioblastoma with additional alterations in the NF1 gene. Our findings thus identify new potential therapeutic targets in distinct subsets of pilocytic astrocytoma and childhood glioblastoma.


Subject(s)
Astrocytoma/genetics , Brain Neoplasms/genetics , Mutation , Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/genetics , Receptor, trkB/genetics , Animals , Astrocytoma/metabolism , Base Sequence , Brain Neoplasms/metabolism , Cell Line , Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics , Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism , Chromosome Breakpoints , Chromosomes, Human, Pair 6 , Chromosomes, Human, Pair 9 , Fibroblast Growth Factors/metabolism , Humans , MAP Kinase Signaling System , Mice , Models, Molecular , Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/chemistry , Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics , Protein Conformation , Proto-Oncogene Proteins B-raf/chemistry , Proto-Oncogene Proteins B-raf/genetics , Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1/metabolism , Receptor, trkB/metabolism
18.
Nature ; 488(7409): 100-5, 2012 Aug 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22832583

ABSTRACT

Medulloblastoma is an aggressively growing tumour, arising in the cerebellum or medulla/brain stem. It is the most common malignant brain tumour in children, and shows tremendous biological and clinical heterogeneity. Despite recent treatment advances, approximately 40% of children experience tumour recurrence, and 30% will die from their disease. Those who survive often have a significantly reduced quality of life. Four tumour subgroups with distinct clinical, biological and genetic profiles are currently identified. WNT tumours, showing activated wingless pathway signalling, carry a favourable prognosis under current treatment regimens. SHH tumours show hedgehog pathway activation, and have an intermediate prognosis. Group 3 and 4 tumours are molecularly less well characterized, and also present the greatest clinical challenges. The full repertoire of genetic events driving this distinction, however, remains unclear. Here we describe an integrative deep-sequencing analysis of 125 tumour-normal pairs, conducted as part of the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) PedBrain Tumor Project. Tetraploidy was identified as a frequent early event in Group 3 and 4 tumours, and a positive correlation between patient age and mutation rate was observed. Several recurrent mutations were identified, both in known medulloblastoma-related genes (CTNNB1, PTCH1, MLL2, SMARCA4) and in genes not previously linked to this tumour (DDX3X, CTDNEP1, KDM6A, TBR1), often in subgroup-specific patterns. RNA sequencing confirmed these alterations, and revealed the expression of what are, to our knowledge, the first medulloblastoma fusion genes identified. Chromatin modifiers were frequently altered across all subgroups. These findings enhance our understanding of the genomic complexity and heterogeneity underlying medulloblastoma, and provide several potential targets for new therapeutics, especially for Group 3 and 4 patients.


Subject(s)
Cerebellar Neoplasms/genetics , Genome, Human/genetics , Medulloblastoma/genetics , Aging/genetics , Amino Acid Sequence , Cell Transformation, Neoplastic , Cerebellar Neoplasms/classification , Cerebellar Neoplasms/diagnosis , Cerebellar Neoplasms/pathology , Child , Chromatin/metabolism , Chromosomes, Human/genetics , DEAD-box RNA Helicases/genetics , DNA Helicases/genetics , DNA-Binding Proteins/genetics , Genomics , Hedgehog Proteins/metabolism , High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing , Histone Demethylases/genetics , Humans , Medulloblastoma/classification , Medulloblastoma/diagnosis , Medulloblastoma/pathology , Methylation , Mutation/genetics , Mutation Rate , Neoplasm Proteins/genetics , Nuclear Proteins/genetics , Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics , Patched Receptors , Patched-1 Receptor , Phosphoprotein Phosphatases/genetics , Polyploidy , Receptors, Cell Surface/genetics , Sequence Analysis, RNA , Signal Transduction , T-Box Domain Proteins/genetics , Transcription Factors/genetics , Wnt Proteins/metabolism , beta Catenin/genetics
19.
Clin Vaccine Immunol ; 19(9): 1549-51, 2012 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22787199

ABSTRACT

Elevated levels of immunoglobulin M antibodies against various pathogens, most frequently Epstein-Barr-virus and Coxiella burnetii, were detected by immunoassay in 15 of 48 patients (31.3%) with acute Puumala virus infections. Although the mechanisms leading to this IgM response are not clear yet, polyspecific immunoglobulin M antibodies have to be taken into account to avoid misinterpretation of serological results in acute hantavirus infection.


Subject(s)
Antibodies, Bacterial/blood , Antibodies, Viral/blood , Hantavirus Infections/immunology , Immunoglobulin M/blood , Coxiella burnetii/immunology , Hantavirus Infections/virology , Herpesvirus 4, Human/immunology , Humans , Puumala virus/isolation & purification
20.
Genetics ; 191(1): 145-62, 2012 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22391484

ABSTRACT

Planar cell polarity (PCP) is a common feature of many epithelia and epithelial organs. Although progress has been made in the dissection of molecular mechanisms regulating PCP, many questions remain. Here we describe a screen to identify novel PCP regulators in Drosophila. We employed mild gain-of-function (GOF) phenotypes of two cytoplasmic Frizzled (Fz)/PCP core components, Diego (Dgo) and Prickle (Pk), and screened these against the DrosDel genome-wide deficiency collection for dominant modifiers. Positive genomic regions were rescreened and narrowed down with smaller overlapping deficiencies from the Exelixis collection and RNAi-mediated knockdown applied to individual genes. This approach isolated new regulators of PCP, which were confirmed with loss-of-function analyses displaying PCP defects in the eye and/or wing. Furthermore, knockdown of a subset was also sensitive to dgo dosage or dominantly modified a dishevelled (dsh) GOF phenotype, supporting a role in Fz/PCP-mediated polarity establishment. Among the new "PCP" genes we identified several kinases, enzymes required for lipid modification, scaffolding proteins, and genes involved in substrate modification and/or degradation. Interestingly, one of them is a member of the Meckel-Gruber syndrome factors, associated with human ciliopathies, suggesting an important role for cell polarity in nonciliated cells.


Subject(s)
Cell Polarity/physiology , Computational Biology , Drosophila melanogaster/cytology , Drosophila melanogaster/genetics , Animals , Cell Polarity/genetics , Drosophila Proteins/deficiency , Drosophila Proteins/genetics , Drosophila Proteins/metabolism , Drosophila melanogaster/metabolism , Eye/anatomy & histology , Eye/metabolism , Female , Gene Knockdown Techniques , Genotype , Humans , Male , Phenotype , Signal Transduction , Wings, Animal/anatomy & histology , Wings, Animal/metabolism
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