Polymer models of the organization of chromosomes in the nucleus of cells

2015 ◽  
Vol 29 (09) ◽  
pp. 1530003 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrea Maria Chiariello ◽  
Simona Bianco ◽  
Andrea Piccolo ◽  
Carlo Annunziatella ◽  
Mariano Barbieri ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
New Technologies ◽  
Life Sciences ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Short Review ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Polymer Physics ◽  
Important Research ◽  
Polymer Models ◽  
Open Issue ◽  
And Function

Understanding the mechanisms that control the organization of chromosomes in the space of the nucleus of cells, and its contribution to gene regulation, is a key open issue in molecular biology. New technologies have shown that chromosomes have a complex 3D organization, which dynamically changes across organisms and cell types. To understand such complex behaviors, quantitative models from polymer physics have been developed, to find the principles of chromosome folding, their origin and function. Here, we provide a short review of recent progress in such an important research field where Physical and Life Sciences meet.

scholarly journals The Central Role of Cytochrome P450 in Xenobiotic Metabolism—A Brief Review on a Fascinating Enzyme Family

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 94-114
Author(s):  
Francisco Esteves ◽  
José Rueff ◽  
Michel Kranendonk
Keyword(s):  
Cytochrome P450 ◽  
Phase I ◽  
Xenobiotic Metabolism ◽  
Short Review ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Genetic Determinants ◽  
Human Cytochrome ◽  
Physiological Relevance ◽  
Membrane Bound ◽  
And Function

Human Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes constitute a superfamily of membrane-bound hemoproteins that are responsible for the metabolism of a wide variety of clinically, physiologically, and toxicologically important compounds. These heme-thiolate monooxygenases play a pivotal role in the detoxification of xenobiotics, participating in the metabolism of many structurally diverge compounds. This short-review is intended to provide a summary on the major roles of CYPs in Phase I xenobiotic metabolism. The manuscript is focused on eight main topics that include the most relevant aspects of past and current CYP research. Initially, (I) a general overview of the main aspects of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of xenobiotics are presented. This is followed by (II) a background overview on major achievements in the past of the CYP research field. (III) Classification and nomenclature of CYPs is briefly reviewed, followed by (IV) a summary description on CYP’s location and function in mammals. Subsequently, (V) the physiological relevance of CYP as the cornerstone of Phase I xenobiotic metabolism is highlighted, followed by (VI) reviewing both genetic determinants and (VI) nongenetic factors in CYP function and activity. The last topic of the review (VIII) is focused on the current challenges of the CYP research field.

scholarly journals Autophagy: New Questions from Recent Answers

2012 ◽  
Vol 2012 ◽  
pp. 1-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fulvio Reggiori
Keyword(s):  
Life Sciences ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Model Systems ◽  
Transport Pathway ◽  
Cell Homeostasis ◽  
Physiological Functions ◽  
Numerous Model ◽  
New Knowledge ◽  
And Function

Macroautophagy (hereafter autophagy) is currently one of the areas of medical life sciences attracting a great interest because of its pathological implications and therapy potentials. The discovery of the autophagy-related genes (ATGs) has been the key event in this research field because their study has led to the acquisition of new knowledge about the mechanism of this transport pathway. In addition, the investigation of these genes in numerous model systems has revealed the central role that autophagy plays in maintaining the cell homeostasis. This process carries out numerous physiological functions, some of which were unpredicted and thus surprising. Here, we will review some of the questions about the mechanism and function of autophagy that still remain unanswered, and new ones that have emerged from the recent discoveries.

scholarly journals Monocytes and Macrophages in Kidney Transplantation and Insights from Single Cell RNA-Seq Studies

Kidney360 ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 10.34067/KID.0003842021
Author(s):  
Andrew F Malone
Keyword(s):  
Kidney Transplantation ◽  
Single Cell ◽  
Rna Sequencing ◽  
Kidney Transplant ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Immune Cell ◽  
Human Kidney ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Single Cell Rna Sequencing ◽  
And Function

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a powerful technology that allows for the identification of minority cell types in complex tissues, such as immune cells in the kidney. Previously, gene expression from infrequent cell types was missed using bulk RNA-sequencing methods due to an averaging effect. Additionally, single-cell RNA sequencing facilitates assignment of cell origin in a sample, a shortcoming of previous bulk sequencing technologies. Thus, scRNA-seq is ideal to study the immune cell landscape and the alloimmune response in the human kidney transplant. However, there are few studies published to date. Macrophages are known to play an important role in health and disease in the kidney. Furthermore, it is known that macrophages play key roles in rejection of the kidney transplant. The definition, ontogeny, and function of these cells is complex and nomenclature has evolved as new technologies have become available. In this review, an overview of monocyte and macrophage nomenclature, ontogeny, and function with a specific focus on kidney transplantation is provided with novel scRNA-seq findings included. Single-cell RNA sequencing offers an unbiased transcriptional approach to defining macrophages and provides insights into macrophage ontogeny and function not possible with contemporary methods.

POPDC proteins and cardiac function

2019 ◽  
Vol 47 (5) ◽  
pp. 1393-1404 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas Brand
Keyword(s):  
Potential Role ◽  
Striated Muscle ◽  
Short Review ◽  
Effector Proteins ◽  
Muscle Disease ◽  
Disease Genes ◽  
Protein Protein Interaction ◽  
Interaction Partners ◽  
And Function

Abstract The Popeye domain-containing gene family encodes a novel class of cAMP effector proteins in striated muscle tissue. In this short review, we first introduce the protein family and discuss their structure and function with an emphasis on their role in cyclic AMP signalling. Another focus of this review is the recently discovered role of POPDC genes as striated muscle disease genes, which have been associated with cardiac arrhythmia and muscular dystrophy. The pathological phenotypes observed in patients will be compared with phenotypes present in null and knockin mutations in zebrafish and mouse. A number of protein–protein interaction partners have been discovered and the potential role of POPDC proteins to control the subcellular localization and function of these interacting proteins will be discussed. Finally, we outline several areas, where research is urgently needed.

Role of the 807 C/T Polymorphism of the α2 Gene in Platelet GP Ia Collagen Receptor Expression and Function

1999 ◽  
Vol 81 (06) ◽  
pp. 951-956 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. Corral ◽  
R. González-Conejero ◽  
J. Rivera ◽  
F. Ortuño ◽  
P. Aparicio ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Venous Thrombosis ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Receptor Expression ◽  
Case Control Studies ◽  
Platelet Surface ◽  
Vitro Analysis ◽  
And Function ◽  
In Vitro Analysis

SummaryThe variability of the platelet GP Ia/IIa density has been associated with the 807 C/T polymorphism (Phe 224) of the GP Ia gene in American Caucasian population. We have investigated the genotype and allelic frequencies of this polymorphism in Spanish Caucasians. The T allele was found in 35% of the 284 blood donors analyzed. We confirmed in 159 healthy subjects a significant association between the 807 C/T polymorphism and the platelet GP Ia density. The T allele correlated with high number of GP Ia molecules on platelet surface. In addition, we observed a similar association of this polymorphism with the expression of this protein in other blood cell types. The platelet responsiveness to collagen was determined by “in vitro” analysis of the platelet activation and aggregation response. We found no significant differences in these functional platelet parameters according to the 807 C/T genotype. Finally, results from 3 case/control studies involving 302 consecutive patients (101 with coronary heart disease, 104 with cerebrovascular disease and 97 with deep venous thrombosis) determined that the 807 C/T polymorphism of the GP Ia gene does not represent a risk factor for arterial or venous thrombosis.

scholarly journals Epigenetic reprogramming of cell identity: lessons from development for regenerative medicine

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Amitava Basu ◽  
Vijay K. Tiwari
Keyword(s):  
Regenerative Medicine ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Direct Conversion ◽  
Cellular Reprogramming ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
Cell Type ◽  
Pathological Conditions ◽  
Gene Regulatory ◽  
Induced Pluripotent ◽  
And Function

AbstractEpigenetic mechanisms are known to define cell-type identity and function. Hence, reprogramming of one cell type into another essentially requires a rewiring of the underlying epigenome. Cellular reprogramming can convert somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that can be directed to differentiate to specific cell types. Trans-differentiation or direct reprogramming, on the other hand, involves the direct conversion of one cell type into another. In this review, we highlight how gene regulatory mechanisms identified to be critical for developmental processes were successfully used for cellular reprogramming of various cell types. We also discuss how the therapeutic use of the reprogrammed cells is beginning to revolutionize the field of regenerative medicine particularly in the repair and regeneration of damaged tissue and organs arising from pathological conditions or accidents. Lastly, we highlight some key challenges hindering the application of cellular reprogramming for therapeutic purposes.

scholarly journals Modelling the Human Placental Interface In Vitro—A Review

Micromachines ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (8) ◽  
pp. 884
Author(s):  
Marta Cherubini ◽  
Scott Erickson ◽  
Kristina Haase
Keyword(s):  
Drug Testing ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
In Vitro Models ◽  
Placental Development ◽  
Scientific Challenge ◽  
Induced Pluripotent ◽  
And Function ◽  
And Control

Acting as the primary link between mother and fetus, the placenta is involved in regulating nutrient, oxygen, and waste exchange; thus, healthy placental development is crucial for a successful pregnancy. In line with the increasing demands of the fetus, the placenta evolves throughout pregnancy, making it a particularly difficult organ to study. Research into placental development and dysfunction poses a unique scientific challenge due to ethical constraints and the differences in morphology and function that exist between species. Recently, there have been increased efforts towards generating in vitro models of the human placenta. Advancements in the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), microfluidics, and bioprinting have each contributed to the development of new models, which can be designed to closely match physiological in vivo conditions. By including relevant placental cell types and control over the microenvironment, these new in vitro models promise to reveal clues to the pathogenesis of placental dysfunction and facilitate drug testing across the maternal–fetal interface. In this minireview, we aim to highlight current in vitro placental models and their applications in the study of disease and discuss future avenues for these in vitro models.

scholarly journals Plasma membrane integrity in health and disease: significance and therapeutic potential

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Catarina Dias ◽  
Jesper Nylandsted
Keyword(s):  
Plasma Membrane ◽  
Therapeutic Potential ◽  
Calcium Influx ◽  
Membrane Integrity ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Physical Parameters ◽  
Membrane Repair ◽  
Plasma Membrane Integrity ◽  
Repair Mechanisms ◽  
And Function

AbstractMaintenance of plasma membrane integrity is essential for normal cell viability and function. Thus, robust membrane repair mechanisms have evolved to counteract the eminent threat of a torn plasma membrane. Different repair mechanisms and the bio-physical parameters required for efficient repair are now emerging from different research groups. However, less is known about when these mechanisms come into play. This review focuses on the existence of membrane disruptions and repair mechanisms in both physiological and pathological conditions, and across multiple cell types, albeit to different degrees. Fundamentally, irrespective of the source of membrane disruption, aberrant calcium influx is the common stimulus that activates the membrane repair response. Inadequate repair responses can tip the balance between physiology and pathology, highlighting the significance of plasma membrane integrity. For example, an over-activated repair response can promote cancer invasion, while the inability to efficiently repair membrane can drive neurodegeneration and muscular dystrophies. The interdisciplinary view explored here emphasises the widespread potential of targeting plasma membrane repair mechanisms for therapeutic purposes.

scholarly journals The evolving definition of salivary gland stem cells

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Cecilia Rocchi ◽  
Lara Barazzuol ◽  
Rob P. Coppes
Keyword(s):  
Stem Cells ◽  
Salivary Gland ◽  
Adult Stem Cell ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Research Field ◽  
New Therapeutic Approaches ◽  
Recent Developments ◽  
Radiation Induced ◽  
Definition Of

AbstractDysfunction of the salivary gland and irreversible hyposalivation are the main side effects of radiotherapy treatment for head and neck cancer leading to a drastic decrease of the quality of life of the patients. Approaches aimed at regenerating damaged salivary glands have been proposed as means to provide long-term restoration of tissue function in the affected patients. In studies to elucidate salivary gland regenerative mechanisms, more and more evidence suggests that salivary gland stem/progenitor cell behavior, like many other adult tissues, does not follow that of the hard-wired professional stem cells of the hematopoietic system. In this review, we provide evidence showing that several cell types within the salivary gland epithelium can serve as stem/progenitor-like cells. While these cell populations seem to function mostly as lineage-restricted progenitors during homeostasis, we indicate that upon damage specific plasticity mechanisms might be activated to take part in regeneration of the tissue. In light of these insights, we provide an overview of how recent developments in the adult stem cell research field are changing our thinking of the definition of salivary gland stem cells and their potential plasticity upon damage. These new perspectives may have important implications on the development of new therapeutic approaches to rescue radiation-induced hyposalivation.

scholarly journals Developmental enhancers and chromosome topology

Science ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 361 (6409) ◽  
pp. 1341-1345 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eileen E. M. Furlong ◽  
Michael Levine
Keyword(s):  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Living Cells ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
Transcriptional Dynamics ◽  
Spatiotemporal Expression ◽  
Chromosome Topology ◽  
Classical Models ◽  
And Function ◽  
Target Promoters

Developmental enhancers mediate on/off patterns of gene expression in specific cell types at particular stages during metazoan embryogenesis. They typically integrate multiple signals and regulatory determinants to achieve precise spatiotemporal expression. Such enhancers can map quite far—one megabase or more—from the genes they regulate. How remote enhancers relay regulatory information to their target promoters is one of the central mysteries of genome organization and function. A variety of contrasting mechanisms have been proposed over the years, including enhancer tracking, linking, looping, and mobilization to transcription factories. We argue that extreme versions of these mechanisms cannot account for the transcriptional dynamics and precision seen in living cells, tissues, and embryos. We describe emerging evidence for dynamic three-dimensional hubs that combine different elements of the classical models.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document