記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Abstract

Bone marrow endothelial cells (BMECs) play a key role in bone formation and haematopoiesis. Although recent studies uncovered the cellular taxonomy of stromal compartments in the bone marrow (BM), the complexity of BMECs is not fully characterized. In the present study, using single-cell RNA sequencing, we defined a spatial heterogeneity of BMECs and identified a capillary subtype, termed type S (secondary ossification) endothelial cells (ECs), exclusively existing in the epiphysis. Type S ECs possessed unique phenotypic characteristics in terms of structure, plasticity and gene expression profiles. Genetic experiments showed that type S ECs atypically contributed to the acquisition of bone strength by secreting type I collagen, the most abundant bone matrix component. Moreover, these cells formed a distinct reservoir for haematopoietic stem cells. These findings provide the landscape for the cellular architecture in the BM vasculature and underscore the importance of epiphyseal ECs during bone and haematopoietic development.

DOI： 10.1038/s41556-023-01240-7

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その他リンク： https://www.nature.com/articles/s41556-023-01240-7

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Pollinosis, also known as pollen allergy or hay fever, is a global problem caused by pollen produced by various plant species. The wind-pollinated Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) is the largest contributor to severe pollinosis in Japan, where increasing proportions of people have been affected in recent decades. The MALE STERILITY 4 (MS4) locus of Japanese cedar controls pollen production, and its homozygous mutants (ms4/ms4) show abnormal pollen development after the tetrad stage and produce no mature pollen. In this study, we narrowed down the MS4 locus by fine mapping in Japanese cedar and found TETRAKETIDE α-PYRONE REDUCTASE 1 (TKPR1) gene in this region. Transformation experiments using Arabidopsis thaliana showed that single-nucleotide substitution ("T" to "C" at 244-nt position) of CjTKPR1 determines pollen production. Broad conservation of TKPR1 beyond plant division could lead to the creation of pollen-free plants not only for Japanese cedar but also for broader plant species.

DOI： 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad236

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Although the extracellular matrix (ECM) plays essential roles in heart tissue engineering, the optimal ECM components for heart tissue organization have not previously been elucidated. Here, we focused on the main ECM component, fibrillar collagen, and analyzed the effects of collagens on heart tissue engineering, by comparing the use of porcine heart-derived collagen and other organ-derived collagens in generating engineered heart tissue (EHT). We demonstrate that heart-derived collagen induces better contraction and relaxation of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived EHT (hiPSC-EHT) and that hiPSC-EHT with heart-derived collagen exhibit more mature profiles than those with collagens from other organs. Further, we found that collagen fibril formation and gel stiffness influence the contraction, relaxation, and maturation of hiPSC-EHT, suggesting the importance of collagen types III and type V, which are relatively abundant in the heart. Thus, we demonstrate the effectiveness of organ-specific collagens in tissue engineering and drug discovery.

DOI： 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122174

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Abstract

Chitosan has various tissue regeneration effects. This study was designed to investigate the nerve regeneration effect of Schwann cell (SC)-encapsulated chitosan-collagen hydrogel nerve conduit (CCN) transplanted into a rat model of sciatic nerve defect. We prepared a CCN consisting of an outer layer of chitosan hydrogel and an inner layer of collagen hydrogel to encapsulate the intended cells. Rats with a 10-mm sciatic nerve defect were treated with SCs encapsulated in CCN (CCN+), CCN without SCs (CCN−), SC-encapsulated silicone tube (silicone+), and autologous nerve transplanting (auto). Behavioral and histological analyses indicated that motor functional recovery, axonal regrowth, and myelination of the CCN+ group were superior to those of the CCN− and silicone+ groups. Meanwhile, the CCN− and silicone+ groups showed no significant differences in the recovery of motor function and nerve histological restoration. In conclusion, SC-encapsulated CCN has a synergistic effect on peripheral nerve regeneration, especially axonal regrowth and remyelination of host SCs. In the early phase after transplantation, SC-encapsulated CCNs have a positive effect on recovery. Therefore, using SC-encapsulated CCNs may be a promising approach for massive peripheral nerve defects.

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-023-39141-2

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その他リンク： https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-39141-2

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Mitophagy plays an important role in mitochondrial homeostasis by selective degradation of mitochondria. During mitophagy, mitochondria should be fragmented to allow engulfment within autophagosomes, whose capacity is exceeded by the typical mitochondria mass. However, the known mitochondrial fission factors, dynamin-related proteins Dnm1 in yeasts and DNM1L/Drp1 in mammals, are dispensable for mitophagy. Here, we identify Atg44 as a mitochondrial fission factor that is essential for mitophagy in yeasts, and we therefore term Atg44 and its orthologous proteins mitofissin. In mitofissin-deficient cells, a part of the mitochondria is recognized by the mitophagy machinery as cargo but cannot be enwrapped by the autophagosome precursor, the phagophore, due to a lack of mitochondrial fission. Furthermore, we show that mitofissin directly binds to lipid membranes and brings about lipid membrane fragility to facilitate membrane fission. Taken together, we propose that mitofissin acts directly on lipid membranes to drive mitochondrial fission required for mitophagy.

DOI： 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.04.022

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

While rapid advancements in regenerative medicine strategies for spinal cord injury (SCI) have been made, most research in this field has focused on the early stages of incomplete injury. However, the majority of patients experience chronic severe injury; therefore, treatments for these situations are fundamentally important. Here, we hypothesized that environmental modulation via a clinically relevant hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-releasing scaffold and human iPS cell-derived neural stem/progenitor cells (hNS/PCs) transplantation contributes to functional recovery after chronic complete transection SCI. Effective release of HGF from a collagen scaffold induced progressive axonal elongation and increased grafted cell viability by activating microglia/macrophages and meningeal cells, inhibiting inflammation, reducing scar formation, and enhancing vascularization. Furthermore, hNS/PCs transplantation enhanced endogenous neuronal regrowth, the extension of graft axons, and the formation of circuits around the lesion and lumbar enlargement between host and graft neurons, resulting in the restoration of locomotor and urinary function. This study presents an effective therapeutic strategy for severe chronic SCI and provides evidence for the feasibility of regenerative medicine strategies using clinically relevant materials.

DOI： 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122002

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Cell transplantation therapy using human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem/progenitor cells (hiPSC-NS/PCs) is a new therapeutic strategy for spinal cord injury (SCI). Preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of hiPSC-NS/PCs transplantation in the subacute phase of SCI. However, locomotor recovery secondary to hiPSC-NS/PCs transplantation is limited in the chronic phase, suggesting that additional treatment, including rehabilitative training, is required to ensure recovery. The therapeutic potential of hiPSC-NS/PCs that qualify for clinical application is yet to be fully delineated. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of the combined therapy of clinical-grade hiPSC-NS/PCs transplantation and rehabilitative training that could produce synergistic effects in a rodent model of chronic SCI. Our findings indicated that rehabilitative training promoted the survival rate and neuronal differentiation of transplanted hiPSC-NS/PCs. The combination therapy was able to enhance the expressions of the BDNF and NT-3 proteins in the spinal cord tissue. Moreover, rehabilitation promoted neuronal activity and increased 5-HT-positive fibers at the lumbar enlargement. Consequently, the combination therapy significantly improved motor functions. The findings of this study suggest that the combined therapy of hiPSC-NS/PCs transplantation and rehabilitative training has the potential to promote functional recovery even when initiated during chronic SCI.

DOI： 10.1093/stcltm/szac089

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

The concept of a perivascular niche has been proposed for neural stem cells (NSCs). This study examined endothelial colony-forming cell (ECFC)-secreted proteins as potential niche factors for NSCs. Intraventricle infusion with ECFC-secreted proteins increased the number of NSCs. ECFC-secreted proteins were more effective in promoting NSC self-renewal than marrow stromal cell (MSC)-secreted proteins. Differential proteomics analysis of MSC-secreted and ECFC-secreted proteins was performed, which revealed chitinase-like protein 3 (CHIL3; also called ECF-L or Ym1) as a candidate niche factor for NSCs. Experiments with recombinant CHIL3, small interfering RNA, and neutralizing antibodies demonstrated that CHIL3 stimulated NSC self-renewal with neurogenic propensity. CHIL3 was endogenously expressed in the neurogenic niche of the brain and retina as well as in the injured brain and retina. Transcriptome and phosphoproteome analyses revealed that CHIL3 activated various genes and proteins associated with NSC maintenance or neurogenesis. Thus, CHIL3 is a novel niche factor for NSCs.

DOI： 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.10.012

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

It is known that the human cellular models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and tauopathy can only recapitulate the very early stage of the disease. To overcome these limitations, we developed a technology to make forebrain organoids (FBOs) from feeder-free induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)s by regulating a FGF2 concentration and applied this method to generate FBOs from patients with familial AD (fAD FBOs). The obtained fAD FBOs recapitulated the amyloid-β pathology and increased tau phosphorylation but not tau aggregates. To fully induce the tau pathology, FBOs were injected with adeno-associated virus (AAV)-expressing P301L mutant tau. In these Tau-P301L FBOs, tau fibrils were observed in the neuronal cell body and neurites with immunoelectron microscopy, in addition to the sarkosyl-insoluble and thioflavin S-positive phospho-tau aggregates. Collectively, this model can be used as a platform for investigating pathogenetic mechanisms and evaluation of target molecules for drug discovery for tauopathy.

DOI： 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100289

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Expectations for neural stem/progenitor cell (NS/PC) transplantation as a treatment for spinal cord injury (SCI) are increasing. However, whether and how grafted cells are incorporated into the host neural circuit and contribute to motor function recovery remain unknown. The aim of this project was to establish a novel non-invasive in vivo imaging system to visualize the activity of neural grafts by which we can simultaneously demonstrate the circuit-level integration between the graft and host and the contribution of graft neuronal activity to host behaviour. We introduced Akaluc, a newly engineered luciferase, under the control of enhanced synaptic activity-responsive element (E-SARE), a potent neuronal activity-dependent synthetic promoter, into NS/PCs and engrafted the cells into SCI model mice. Through the use of this system, we found that the activity of grafted cells was integrated with host behaviour and driven by host neural circuit inputs. This non-invasive system is expected to help elucidate the therapeutic mechanism of cell transplantation treatment for SCI.

DOI： 10.1038/s42003-022-03736-8

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：eLife Sciences Publications, Ltd  

Dystonin (DST), which encodes cytoskeletal linker proteins, expresses three tissue-selective isoforms: neural DST-a, muscular DST-b, and epithelial DST-e. DST mutations cause different disorders, including hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy 6 (HSAN-VI) and epidermolysis bullosa simplex; however, etiology of the muscle phenotype in DST-related diseases has been unclear. Because DST-b contains all of the DST-a-encoding exons, known HSAN-VI mutations could affect both DST-a and DST-b isoforms. To investigate the specific function of DST-b in striated muscles, we generated a Dst-b-specific mutant mouse model harboring a nonsense mutation. Dst-b mutant mice exhibited late-onset protein aggregate myopathy and cardiomyopathy without neuropathy. We observed desmin aggregation, focal myofibrillar dissolution, and mitochondrial accumulation in striated muscles, which are common characteristics of myofibrillar myopathy. We also found nuclear inclusions containing p62, ubiquitin, and SUMO proteins with nuclear envelope invaginations as a unique pathological hallmark in Dst-b mutation-induced cardiomyopathy. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed changes in expression of genes responsible for cardiovascular functions. In silico analysis identified DST-b alleles with nonsense mutations in populations worldwide, suggesting that some unidentified hereditary myopathy and cardiomyopathy are caused by DST-b mutations. Here, we demonstrate that the Dst-b isoform is essential for long-term maintenance of striated muscles.

DOI： 10.7554/elife.78419

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その他リンク： https://cdn.elifesciences.org/articles/78419/elife-78419-v1.xml

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Transplantation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) is considered to be a promising therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI) and will soon be translated to the clinical phase. However, how grafted neuronal activity influences functional recovery has not been fully elucidated. Here, we show the locomotor functional changes caused by inhibiting the neuronal activity of grafted cells using a designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADD). In vitro analyses of inhibitory DREADD (hM4Di)-expressing cells demonstrated the precise inhibition of neuronal activity via administration of clozapine N-oxide. This inhibition led to a significant decrease in locomotor function in SCI mice with cell transplantation, which was exclusively observed following the maturation of grafted neurons. Furthermore, trans-synaptic tracing revealed the integration of graft neurons into the host motor circuitry. These results highlight the significance of engrafting functionally competent neurons by hiPSC-NS/PC transplantation for sufficient recovery from SCI.

DOI： 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.12.005

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

In cell transplantation therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI), grafted human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem/progenitor cells (hiPSC-NS/PCs) mainly differentiate into neurons, forming synapses in a process similar to neurodevelopment. In the developing nervous system, the activity of immature neurons has an important role in constructing and maintaining new synapses. Thus, we investigate how enhancing the activity of transplanted hiPSC-NS/PCs affects both the transplanted cells themselves and the host tissue. We find that chemogenetic stimulation of hiPSC-derived neural cells enhances cell activity and neuron-to-neuron interactions in vitro. In a rodent model of SCI, consecutive and selective chemogenetic stimulation of transplanted hiPSC-NS/PCs also enhances the expression of synapse-related genes and proteins in surrounding host tissues and prevents atrophy of the injured spinal cord, thereby improving locomotor function. These findings provide a strategy for enhancing activity within the graft to improve the efficacy of cell transplantation therapy for SCI.

DOI： 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110019

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

The timing and characteristics of neuronal death in Alzheimer's disease (AD) remain largely unknown. Here we examine AD mouse models with an original marker, myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate phosphorylated at serine 46 (pSer46-MARCKS), and reveal an increase of neuronal necrosis during pre-symptomatic phase and a subsequent decrease during symptomatic phase. Postmortem brains of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) rather than symptomatic AD patients reveal a remarkable increase of necrosis. In vivo imaging reveals instability of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in mouse AD models and genome-edited human AD iPS cell-derived neurons. The level of nuclear Yes-associated protein (YAP) is remarkably decreased in such neurons under AD pathology due to the sequestration into cytoplasmic amyloid beta (Aβ) aggregates, supporting the feature of YAP-dependent necrosis. Suppression of early-stage neuronal death by AAV-YAPdeltaC reduces the later-stage extracellular Aβ burden and cognitive impairment, suggesting that preclinical/prodromal YAP-dependent neuronal necrosis represents a target for AD therapeutics.

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-020-14353-6

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その他リンク： http://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-14353-6

掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Informa UK Limited  

DOI： 10.2147/mnm.s252991

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1038/s41586-020-2425-3

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その他リンク： http://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-2425-3

記述言語：英語  

Corneal endothelial cell (CEnC) loss after corneal transplantation is the major cause of graft failure and remains a clinically relevant challenge to overcome. Accumulated knowledge derived from long-term clinical outcomes suggested that elevated protein levels in the aqueous humor are associated with CEnC loss. However, the full spectrum of driver proteins and molecular processes remains to be determined. Here, we defined the somatic microenvironmental landscape and cellular response across human aqueous humor in samples with poor corneal transplantation clinical outcomes using multiomics analyses and clarified specific driver alterations, including complement activation and disturbed energy homeostasis. These driver alterations were also confirmed in aqueous humor from a novel murine model that spontaneously develops iris atrophy, leading to CEnC loss. The application of the integrative multiomics performed in human samples to the novel murine model will help the development of therapeutic modalities for patients with CEnC loss after corneal transplantation.

DOI： 10.1126/sciadv.aaz5195

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担当区分：筆頭著者,　責任著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.3389/fncir.2019.00029

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担当区分：筆頭著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Scientific Reports  

Strategies for therapeutic cell transplantation have been assessed for use in the treatment of massive peripheral nerve defects. To support safe and efficient cell transplantation, we have focused on the purification of cells using cell surface markers. Our group previously reported low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor (LNGFR)- and thymocyte antigen-1 (THY-1)-positive neural crest-like cells (LT-NCLCs), generated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). In the present study, we investigated the efficacy of transplantation of hiPSC-derived LT-NCLCs in a murine massive peripheral nerve defect model. Animals with a sciatic nerve defect were treated with a bridging silicone tube prefilled with LT-NCLCs or medium in the transplantation (TP) and negative control (NC) groups, respectively. The grafted LT-NCLCs survived and enhanced myelination and angiogenesis, as compared to the NC group. Behavioral analysis indicated that motor functional recovery in the TP group was superior to that in the NC group, and similar to that in the autograft (Auto) group. LT-NCLCs promoted axonal regrowth and remyelination by Schwann cells. Transplantation of LT-NCLCs is a promising approach for nerve regeneration treatment of massive peripheral nerve defects.

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-018-27952-7

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP  

Astrocytes become reactive following various brain insults; however, the functions of reactive astrocytes are poorly understood. Here, we show that reactive astrocytes function as phagocytes after transient ischemic injury and appear in a limited spatiotemporal pattern. Following transient brain ischemia, phagocytic astrocytes are observed within the ischemic penumbra region during the later stage of ischemia. However, phagocytic microglia are mainly observed within the ischemic core region during the earlier stage of ischemia. Phagocytic astrocytes upregulate ABCA1 and its pathway molecules, MEGF10 and GULP1, which are required for phagocytosis, and upregulation of ABCA1 alone is sufficient for enhancement of phagocytosis in vitro. Disrupting ABCA1 in reactive astrocytes result in fewer phagocytic inclusions after ischemia. Together, these findings suggest that astrocytes are transformed into a phagocytic phenotype as a result of increase in ABCA1 and its pathway molecules and contribute to remodeling of damaged tissues and penumbra networks.

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-017-00037-1

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Adrenal hypoplasia is a rare, life-threatening congenital disorder. Here we define a new form of syndromic adrenal hypoplasia, which we propose to term MIRAGE (myelodysplasia, infection, restriction of growth, adrenal hypoplasia, genital phenotypes, and enteropathy) syndrome. By exome sequencing and follow-up studies, we identified 11 patients with adrenal hypoplasia and common extra-adrenal features harboring mutations in SAMD9. Expression of the wild-type SAMD9 protein, a facilitator of endosome fusion, caused mild growth restriction in cultured cells, whereas expression of mutants caused profound growth inhibition. Patient-derived fibroblasts had restricted growth, decreased plasma membrane EGFR expression, increased size of early endosomes, and intracellular accumulation of giant vesicles carrying a late endosome marker. Of interest, two patients developed myelodysplasitc syndrome (MDS) that was accompanied by loss of the chromosome 7 carrying the SAMD9 mutation. Considering the potent growth-restricting activity of the SAMD9 mutants, the loss of chromosome 7 presumably occurred as an adaptation to the growth-restricting condition.

DOI： 10.1038/ng.3569

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP  

Pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia is a pre-malignant lesion that can progress to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, a highly lethal malignancy marked by its late stage at clinical presentation and profound drug resistance1. The genomic alterations that commonly occur in pancreatic cancer include activation of KRAS2 and inactivation of p53 and SMAD4 (refs 2-4). So far, however, it has been challenging to target these pathways therapeutically; thus the search for other key mediators of pancreatic cancer growth remains an important endeavour. Here we show that the stem cell determinant Musashi (Msi) is a critical element of pancreatic cancer progression both in genetic models and in patient-derived xenografts. Specifically, we developed Msi reporter mice that allowed image-based tracking of stem cell signals within cancers, revealing that Msi expression rises as pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia progresses to adenocarcinoma, and that Msi-expressing cells are key drivers of pancreatic cancer: they preferentially harbour the capacity to propagate adenocarcinoma, are enriched in circulating tumour cells, and are markedly drug resistant. This population could be effectively targeted by deletion of either Msi1 or Msi2, which led to a striking defect in the progression of pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia to adenocarcinoma and an improvement in overall survival. Msi inhibition also blocked the growth of primary patient-derived tumours, suggesting that this signal is required for human disease. To define the translational potential of this work we developed antisense oligonucleotides against Msi; these showed reliable tumour penetration, uptake and target inhibition, and effectively blocked pancreatic cancer growth. Collectively, these studies highlight Msi reporters as a unique tool to identify therapy resistance, and define Msi signalling as a central regulator of pancreatic cancer.

DOI： 10.1038/nature17988

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担当区分：筆頭著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：PUBLIC LIBRARY SCIENCE  

Gastrointestinal motility disorders, severe variants in particular, remain a therapeutic challenge in pediatric surgery. Absence of enteric ganglion cells that originate from neural crest cells is a major cause of dysmotility. However, the limitations of currently available animal models of dysmotility continue to impede the development of new therapeutics. Indeed, the short lifespan and/or poor penetrance of existing genetic models of dysmotility prohibit the functional evaluation of promising approaches, such as stem cell replacement strategy. Here, we induced an aganglionosis model using topical benzalkonium chloride in a P0-Cre/GFP transgenic mouse in which the neural crest lineage is labeled by green fluorescence. Pathological abnormalities and functional changes in the gastrointestinal tract were evaluated 2-8 weeks after chemical injury. Laparotomy combined with fluorescence microscopy allowed direct visualization of the enteric neural network in vivo. Immunohistochemical evaluation further confirmed the irreversible disappearance of ganglion cells, glial cells, and interstitial cell of Cajal. Remaining stool weight and bead expulsion time in particular supported the pathophysiological relevance of this chemically-induced model of aganglionosis. Interestingly, we show that chemical ablation of enteric ganglion cells is associated with a long lifespan. By combining genetic labeling of neural crest derivatives and chemical ablation of enteric ganglion cells, we developed a newly customized model of aganglionosis. Our results indicate that this aganglionosis model exhibits decreased gastrointestinal motility and shows sufficient survival for functional evaluation. This model may prove useful for the development of future therapies against motility disorders.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0150579

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) is a diffusible axonal chemorepellent that has an important role in axon guidance. Previous studies have demonstrated that Sema3a(-/-) mice have multiple developmental defects due to abnormal neuronal innervations. Here we show in mice that Sema3A is abundantly expressed in bone, and cell-based assays showed that Sema3A affected osteoblast differentiation in a cell-autonomous fashion. Accordingly, Sema3a(-/-) mice had a low bone mass due to decreased bone formation. However, osteoblast-specific Sema3A-deficient mice (Sema3acol1(-/-) and Sema3aosx(-/-) mice) had normal bone mass, even though the expression of Sema3A in bone was substantially decreased. In contrast, mice lacking Sema3A in neurons (Sema3asynapsin(-/-) and Sema3anestin(-/-) mice) had low bone mass, similar to Sema3a(-/-) mice, indicating that neuron-derived Sema3A is responsible for the observed bone abnormalities independent of the local effect of Sema3A in bone. Indeed, the number of sensory innervations of trabecular bone was significantly decreased in Sema3asynapsin(-/-) mice, whereas sympathetic innervations of trabecular bone were unchanged. Moreover, ablating sensory nerves decreased bone mass in wild-type mice, whereas it did not reduce the low bone mass in Sema3anestin(-/-) mice further, supporting the essential role of the sensory nervous system in normal bone homeostasis. Finally, neuronal abnormalities in Sema3a(-/-) mice, such as olfactory development, were identified in Sema3asynasin(-/-) mice, demonstrating that neuron-derived Sema3A contributes to the abnormal neural development seen in Sema3a(-/-) mice, and indicating that Sema3A produced in neurons regulates neural development in an autocrine manner. This study demonstrates that Sema3A regulates bone remodelling indirectly by modulating sensory nerve development, but not directly by acting on osteoblasts.

DOI： 10.1038/nature12115

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1186/1756-6606-3-31

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

Although recent reports have described multipotent, self-renewing, neural crest-derived stem cells (NCSCs), the NCSCs in various adult rodent tissues have not been well characterized or compared. Here we identified NCSCs in the bone marrow (BM), dorsal root ganglia, and whisker pad and prospectively isolated them from adult transgenic mice encoding neural crest-specific PO-Cre/Floxed-EGFP and Wntl-Cre/Floxed-EGFP. Cultured EGFP-positive cells formed neurosphere-like structures that expressed NCSC genes and could differentiate into neurons, glial cells, and myofibroblasts, but the frequency of the cell types was tissue source dependent. Interestingly, we observed NCSCs in the aortagonad-mesonephros region, circulating blood, and liver at the embryonic stage, suggesting that NCSCs migrate through the bloodstream to the BM and providing an explanation for how neural cells are generated from the BM. The identification of NCSCs in accessible adult tissue provides a new potential source for autologous cell therapy after nerve injury or disease.

DOI： 10.1016/j.stem.2008.03.005

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1038/nm1505

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その他リンク： http://www.nature.com/articles/nm1505

掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences  

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.0407523102

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences  

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.232087499

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：MDPI AG  

The Vps13a gene encodes a lipid transfer protein called VPS13A, or chorein, associated with mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAMs), mitochondria–endosomes, and lipid droplets. This protein plays a crucial role in inter-organelle communication and lipid transport. Mutations in the VPS13A gene are implicated in the pathogenesis of chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc), a rare autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by chorea, orofacial dyskinesias, hyperkinetic movements, seizures, cognitive impairment, and acanthocytosis. Previous mouse models of ChAc have shown variable disease phenotypes depending on the genetic background. In this study, we report the generation of a Vps13a flox allele in a pure C57BL/6N mouse background and the subsequent creation of Vps13a knockout (KO) mice via Cre-recombination. Our Vps13a KO mice exhibited increased reticulocytes but not acanthocytes in peripheral blood smears. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the GFAP- and Iba1-positive cells in the striatum, the basal ganglia of the central nervous system. Interestingly, we observed abnormal spermatogenesis leading to male infertility. These findings indicate that Vps13a KO mice are valuable models for studying male infertility and some hematological aspects of ChAc.

DOI： 10.3390/ijms25147776

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Oxford University Press (OUP)  

Abstract

Most autophagy-related genes, or ATG genes, have been identified in studies using budding yeast. Although the functions of the ATG genes are well understood, the contributions of individual genes to non-selective and various types of selective autophagy remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, we quantified the activity of non-selective autophagy, the cytoplasm-to-vacuole targeting (Cvt) pathway, mitophagy, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-phagy, and pexophagy in all Saccharomyces cerevisiae atg mutants. Among the mutants of the core autophagy genes considered essential for autophagy, the atg13 mutant and mutants of the genes involved in the two ubiquitin-like conjugation systems retained residual autophagic functionality. In particular, mutants of the Atg8 ubiquitin-like conjugation system (the Atg8 system) exhibited substantial levels of non-selective autophagy, the Cvt pathway, and pexophagy, although mitophagy and ER-phagy were undetectable. Atg8-system mutants also displayed intravacuolar vesicles resembling autophagic bodies, albeit at significantly reduced size and frequency. Thus, our data suggest that membranous sequestration and vacuolar delivery of autophagic cargo can occur in the absence of the Atg8 system. Alongside these findings, the comprehensive analysis conducted here provides valuable datasets for future autophagy research.

DOI： 10.1093/jb/mvae042

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Parkinsonism-Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC), a rare and complex neurological disorder, is predominantly observed in the Western Pacific islands, including regions of Japan, Guam, and Papua. This enigmatic condition continues to capture medical attention due to affected patients displaying symptoms that parallel those seen in either classical amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Parkinson's disease (PD). Distinctly, postmortem examinations of the brains of affected individuals have shown the presence of α-synuclein aggregates and TDP-43, which are hallmarks of PD and classical ALS, respectively. These observations are further complicated by the detection of phosphorylated tau, accentuating the multifaceted proteinopathic nature of ALS/PDC. The etiological foundations of this disease remain undetermined, and genetic investigations have yet to provide conclusive answers. However, emerging evidence has implicated the contribution of astrocytes, pivotal cells for maintaining brain health, to neurodegenerative onset, and likely to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of ALS/PDC. Leveraging advanced induced pluripotent stem cell technology, our team cultivated multiple astrocyte lines to further investigate the Japanese variant of ALS/PDC (Kii ALS/PDC). CHCHD2 emerged as a significantly dysregulated gene when disease astrocytes were compared to healthy controls. Our analyses also revealed imbalances in the activation of specific pathways: those associated with astrocytic cilium dysfunction, known to be involved in neurodegeneration, and those related to major neurological disorders, including classical ALS and PD. Further in-depth examinations revealed abnormalities in the mitochondrial morphology and metabolic processes of the affected astrocytes. A particularly striking observation was the reduced expression of CHCHD2 in the spinal cord, motor cortex, and oculomotor nuclei of patients with Kii ALS/PDC. In summary, our findings suggest a potential reduction in the support Kii ALS/PDC astrocytes provide to neurons, emphasizing the need to explore the role of CHCHD2 in maintaining mitochondrial health and its implications for the disease.

DOI： 10.1007/s00401-024-02734-w

PubMed

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

There is no choice other than rehabilitation as a practical medical treatment to restore impairments or improve activities after acute treatment in people with spinal cord injury (SCI); however, the effect is unremarkable. Therefore, researchers have been seeking effective pharmacological treatments. These will, hopefully, exert a greater effect when combined with rehabilitation. However, no review has specifically summarized the combinatorial effects of rehabilitation with various medical agents. In the current review, which included 43 articles, we summarized the combinatorial effects according to the properties of the medical agents, namely neuromodulation, neurotrophic factors, counteraction to inhibitory factors, and others. The recovery processes promoted by rehabilitation include the regeneration of tracts, neuroprotection, scar tissue reorganization, plasticity of spinal circuits, microenvironmental change in the spinal cord, and enforcement of the musculoskeletal system, which are additive, complementary, or even synergistic with medication in many cases. However, there are some cases that lack interaction or even demonstrate competition between medication and rehabilitation. A large fraction of the combinatorial mechanisms remains to be elucidated, and very few studies have investigated complex combinations of these agents or targeted chronically injured spinal cords.

DOI： 10.3390/cells13050412

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often results in various long-term sequelae, and chronically injured spinal cords exhibit a refractory feature, showing a limited response to cell transplantation therapies. To our knowledge, no preclinical studies have reported a treatment approach with results surpassing those of treatment comprising rehabilitation alone. In this study of rats with SCI, we propose a novel combined therapy involving a semaphorin 3A inhibitor (Sema3Ai), which enhances axonal regeneration, as the third treatment element in combination with neural stem/progenitor cell transplantation and rehabilitation. This comprehensive therapeutic strategy achieved significant improvements in host-derived neuronal and oligodendrocyte differentiation at the SCI epicenter and promoted axonal regeneration even in the chronically injured spinal cord. The elongated axons established functional electrical connections, contributing to significant enhancements in locomotor mobility when compared with animals treated with transplantation and rehabilitation. As a result, our combined transplantation, Sema3Ai, and rehabilitation treatment have the potential to serve as a critical step forward for chronic SCI patients, improving their ability to regain motor function.

DOI： 10.1523/ENEURO.0378-23.2024

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Cryptomeria japonica D. Don is a model plant for studying male sterility in conifers. To date, five male sterile loci have been identified by crossing tests. When at least one of these loci is homozygote of a recessive male sterile allele, male sterility is induced. Cytological studies have been performed for ms1 to ms4 mutants, but there have yet to be such investigations of ms5 mutants. This study newly showed that ms2 mutants lack callose and exhibit different phenotypes for each microsporangium. Furthermore, we found the leakage of cellular contents and the appearance of amorphous substances in ms3 mutants. We also detected leakage of cellular contents in ms4 mutants. On the other hand, abnormal pollen development in ms5 mutants was found to begin at the tetrad stage. This abnormality was characterized by the maintenance of abnormal tetrads and uneven spores, abnormal pollen wall formation, covered with amorphous substances, disappearance of the nucleus, and central nuclear positioning during the binuclear microspore stage. These results were clearly different from those of ms1 to ms4 mutants. Abnormal meiosis in pollen mother cells, the abnormal pollen wall, and abnormal mitosis during pollen development may be closely associated with male sterility caused by mutation of MS5.

DOI： 10.1007/s12374-023-09415-3

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) results in the loss of neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. Present interventions for SCI include decompressive surgery, anti-inflammatory therapies, and rehabilitation programs. Nonetheless, these approaches do not offer regenerative solutions to replace the lost cells, fiber tracts, and circuits. Neural stem/progenitor cell (NPC) transplantation is a promising strategy that aims to encourage regeneration. However, NPC differentiation remains inconsistent, thus, contributing to suboptimal functional recovery. As such, we have previously engineered oligodendrogenically biased NPCs (oNPCs) and demonstrated their efficacy in a thoracic model of SCI. Since the majority of patients with SCI experience cervical injuries, our objective in the current study was to generate human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived oNPCs (hiPSC-oNPCs) and to characterize these cells in vitro and in vivo, utilizing a clinically relevant rodent model of cervical SCI. Following transplantation, the oNPCs engrafted, migrated to the rostral and caudal regions of the lesion, and demonstrated preferential differentiation toward oligodendrocytes. Histopathological evaluations revealed that oNPC transplantation facilitated tissue preservation while diminishing astrogliosis. Moreover, oNPC transplantation fostered remyelination of the spared tissue. Functional analyses indicated improved forelimb grip strength, gait, and locomotor function in the oNPC-transplanted rats. Importantly, oNPC transplantation did not exacerbate neuropathic pain or induce tumor formation. In conclusion, these findings underscore the therapeutic potential of oNPCs in promoting functional recovery and histopathological improvements in cervical SCI. This evidence warrants further investigation to optimize and advance this promising cell-based therapeutic approach.

DOI： 10.1093/stcltm/szad044

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

BACKGROUND & AIMS: D-amino acids, the chiral counterparts of protein L-amino acids, were primarily produced and utilized by microbes, including those in the human gut. However, little was known about how orally administered or microbe-derived D-amino acids affected the gut microbial community or gut disease progression. METHODS: The ratio of D- to L-amino acids was analyzed in feces and blood from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and healthy controls. Also, composition of microbe was analyzed from patients with UC. Mice were treated with D-amino acid in dextran sulfate sodium colitis model and liver cholangitis model. RESULTS: The ratio of D- to L-amino acids was lower in the feces of patients with UC than that of healthy controls. Supplementation of D-amino acids ameliorated UC-related experimental colitis and liver cholangitis by inhibiting growth of Proteobacteria. Addition of D-alanine, a major building block for bacterial cell wall formation, to culture medium inhibited expression of the ftsZ gene required for cell fission in the Proteobacteria Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, thereby inhibiting growth. Overexpression of ftsZ restored growth of E. coli even when D-alanine was present. We found that D-alanine not only inhibited invasion of pathological K. pneumoniae into the host via pore formation in intestinal epithelial cells but also inhibited growth of E. coli and generation of antibiotic-resistant strains. CONCLUSIONS: D-amino acids might have potential for use in novel therapeutic approaches targeting Proteobacteria-associated dysbiosis and antibiotic-resistant bacterial diseases by means of their effects on the intestinal microbiota community.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.08.002

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記述言語：英語  

DOI： 10.1111/jdv.19357

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Valproic acid (VPA) is an antiepileptic drug that inhibits the epileptic activity of neurons mainly by inhibiting sodium channels and GABA transaminase. VPA is also known to inhibit histone deacetylases, which epigenetically modify the cell proliferation/differentiation characteristics of stem/progenitor cells within developing tissues. Recent clinical studies in humans have indicated that VPA exposure in utero increases the risk of autistic features and intellectual disabilities in offspring; we previously reported that low-dose VPA exposure in utero throughout pregnancy increases the production of projection neurons from neuronal stem/progenitor cells that are distributed in the superficial neocortical layers of the fetal brain. In the present study, we found that in utero VPA-exposed mice exhibited abnormal social interaction, changes in cognitive function, hypersensitivity to pain/heat, and impaired locomotor activity, all of which are characteristic symptoms of autistic spectrum disorder in humans. Taken together, our findings indicate that VPA exposure in utero throughout pregnancy alters higher brain function and predisposes individuals to phenotypes that resemble autism and intellectual disability. Furthermore, these symptoms are likely to be due to neocortical dysgenesis that was caused by an increased number of projection neurons in specific layers of the neocortex.

DOI： 10.1159/000530452

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Decompensated cirrhosis with fibrosis progression causes portal hypertension followed by an oedematous intestinal tract. These conditions weaken the barrier function against bacteria in the intestinal tract, a condition called leaky gut, resulting in invasion by bacteria and bacterial components. Here, we investigated the role of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of Escherichia coli which is the representative pathogenic gut-derived bacteria in patients with cirrhosis in the pathogenesis of cirrhosis. METHODS: We investigated the involvement of OMVs in humans using human serum and ascites samples and also investigated the involvement of OMVs from Escherichia coli in mice using mouse liver-derived cells and a mouse cirrhosis model. RESULTS: In vitro, OMVs induced inflammatory responses to macrophages and neutrophils, including the upregulation of C-type lectin domain family 4 member E (Clec4e), and induced the suppression of albumin production in hepatocytes but had a relatively little direct effect on hepatic stellate cells. In a mouse cirrhosis model, administration of OMVs led to increased liver inflammation, especially affecting the activation of macrophages, worsening fibrosis, and decreasing albumin production. Albumin administration weakened these inflammatory changes. In addition, multiple antibodies against bacterial components were increased with a progressing Child-Pugh grade, and OMVs were detected in ascites of patients with decompensated cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, OMVs induce inflammation, fibrosis and suppression of albumin production, affecting the pathogenesis of cirrhosis. We believe that our study paves the way for the future prevention and treatment of cirrhosis.

DOI： 10.1111/liv.15539

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：日本末梢神経学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：日本末梢神経学会  

末梢神経損傷に対する細胞移植療法として、シュワン細胞移植が古くから研究されてきた。しかし、細胞の供給源や生存・増殖能など移植細胞として用いるうえで多くの問題点を有する。近年、自己復製能と多分化能を有するinduced pluripotent stem cell(iPS細胞)が注目されている。これまでにさまざまなiPS細胞を用いた末梢神経再生の基礎研究が報告されてきたが、現時点では最適な手法は確立されていない。われわれは近年、ヒトiPS細胞から誘導した神経堤様細胞を用いて広範囲末梢神経欠損モデルに対する末梢神経再生に関する研究を行っており、その成果と臨床応用を目指した今後の課題について、文献的考察を交えて報告する。(著者抄録)

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Introduction: Efficient induction of the otic placode, the developmental origin of the inner ear from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), provides a robust platform for otic development and sensorineural hearing loss modelling. Nevertheless, there remains a limited capacity of otic lineage specification from hPSCs by stepwise differentiation methods, since the critical factors for successful otic cell differentiation have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we developed a novel differentiation system involving the use of a three-dimensional (3D) floating culture with signalling factors for generating otic cell lineages via stepwise differentiation of hPSCs. Methods: We differentiated hPSCs into preplacodal cells under a two-dimensional (2D) monolayer culture. Then, we transferred the induced preplacodal cells into a 3D floating culture under the control of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), retinoic acid (RA) and WNT signalling pathways. We evaluated the characteristics of the induced cells using immunocytochemistry, quantitative PCR (qPCR), population averaging, and single-cell RNA-seq (RNA-seq) analysis. We further investigated the methods for differentiating otic progenitors towards hair cells by overexpression of defined transcription factors. Results: We demonstrated that hPSC-derived preplacodal cells acquired the potential to differentiate into posterior placodal cells in 3D floating culture with FGF2 and RA. Subsequent activation of WNT signalling induced otic placodal cell formation. By single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) analysis, we identified multiple clusters of otic placode- and otocyst marker-positive cells in the induced spheres. Moreover, the induced otic cells showed the potential to generate hair cell-like cells by overexpression of the transcription factors ATOH1, POU4F3 and GFI1. Conclusions: We demonstrated the critical role of FGF2, RA and WNT signalling in a 3D environment for the in vitro differentiation of otic lineage cells from hPSCs. The induced otic cells had the capacity to differentiate into inner ear hair cells with stereociliary bundles and tip link-like structures. The protocol will be useful for in vitro disease modelling of sensorineural hearing loss and human inner ear development and thus contribute to drug screening and stem cell-based regenerative medicine.

DOI： 10.1016/j.reth.2022.04.008

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier {BV}  

The stepwise development of bone is rigidly controlled from mesenchymal cells through osteoblasts. Dysregulation of this process causes various bone diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteogenesis imperfecta. Recently, it has been noted that the decrease in bone density due to aging occurs not only in the axial skeleton but also in the facial bone. To address this issue, we focused on neural crest-derived osteoblasts that form craniofacial bone, and evaluated several functional ingredients that have been reported to activate osteoblast function using mineralization ability as an index. Glucosamine is a major component of glycosaminoglycans, is highly expressed in connective and cartilage tissues, and is known as a health food that improves joint function. Recent studies suggest that glucosamine promotes osteoblast activation; however, the underlying mechanism of this phenomenon remains unclear. This study is the first to elucidate the effects of glucosamine on neural crest-derived osteoblast differentiation using human induced pluripotent stem cells. We confirmed that glucosamine promotes osteogenesis of neural crest-derived mesenchymal stromal cells and osteoblasts. Furthermore, glucosamine increased the gene expression as well as the protein levels of osteopontin (OPN) and screlostin (SOST) which are involved in the following two processes: (1) conversion of mesenchymal stromal cells into osteoblasts, and (2) maturation of osteoblasts. These findings suggest that glucosamine plays a role in promoting osteogenesis and contributes to maintaining a healthy bone condition.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.03.002

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本脊椎脊髄病学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem/progenitor cell (hiPSC-NS/PCs) transplantation during the acute phase of spinal cord injury (SCI) is not effective due to the inflammatory response occurring immediately after SCI, which negatively impacts transplanted cell survival. Therefore, we chose to study the powerful chemoattractant complement C5a as a method to generate a more favorable transplantation environment. We hypothesized that suppression of the inflammatory response immediately after SCI by C5a receptor antagonist (C5aRA) would improve the efficacy of hiPSC-NS/PCs transplantation for acute phase SCI. Here, we evaluated the influence of C5aRA on the inflammatory reaction during the acute phase after SCI, and observed significant reductions in several inflammatory cytokines, macrophages, neutrophils and apoptotic markers. Next, we divided the SCI mice into 4 groups: i) Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) only, ii) C5aRA only, iii) PBS + transplantation (PBS+TP), and iv) C5aRA + transplantation (C5aRA+TP). Immediately after SCI, C5aRA or PBS was injected once a day for 4 consecutive days, followed by hiPSC-NS/PC transplantation or PBS into the lesion epicenter on day 4. The C5aRA+TP group had better functional improvement as compared to the PBS only group. The C5aRA+TP group also had a significantly higher cell survival rate compared to the PBS+TP group. This study demonstrates that administration of C5aRA can suppress the inflammatory response during the acute phase of SCI, while improving the survival rate of transplanted hiPSC-NS/PCs as well as enhancing motor functional restoration. hiPSC-NS/PC transplantation with C5aRA is a promising treatment during the acute injury phase for SCI patients.

DOI： 10.1089/neu.2021.0225

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DNA transfection is an important technology in life sciences, wherein nuclear entry of DNA is necessary to express exogenous DNA. Non-viral vectors and their transfection reagents are useful as safe transfection tools. However, they have no effect on the transfection of non-proliferating cells, the reason for which is not well understood. This study elucidates the mechanism through which transfected DNA enters the nucleus for gene expression. To monitor the behavior of transfected DNA, we introduce plasmid bearing lacO repeats and RFP-coding sequences into cells expressing GFP-LacI and observe plasmid behavior and RFP expression in living cells. RFP expression appears only after mitosis. Electron microscopy reveals that plasmids are wrapped with nuclear envelope (NE)‒like membranes or associated with chromosomes at telophase. The depletion of BAF, which is involved in NE reformation, delays plasmid RFP expression. These results suggest that transfected DNA is incorporated into the nucleus during NE reformation at telophase.

DOI： 10.1038/s42003-022-03021-8

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2022.06.006

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Treatment for inner ear regeneration and protection needs local injection of steroid or new drug for inner ear regeneration into the round window membrane (RWM) in cochlea, but a systemic injection is not available due to its systemic side effects. However, pharmacokinetics of therapeutic agents or steroid locally injected into the inner ear is not well known. Hence, we introduce a new method for the real-time observation of drug delivery in transgenic animals in vivo. We exemplify mice which contain a firefly luciferase (FLuc) gene expression cassette regulated by the murine glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter. Luciferin delivered into the inner ear of those mice reacts with FLuc that is expressed in the GFAP-expressing cells in the cochlear nerve and spiral ganglion, and the resulting bioluminescence is detected by a camera. Using this system, we show the imaging of pharmacokinetic differences between local and systemic (intravenous and subcutaneous) injections of the inner ear.

DOI： 10.1007/978-1-0716-2453-1_26

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本顕微鏡学会  

近年注目される電子顕微鏡用の連続切片を三次元的に解析可能なATUM-SEM法は,樹脂包埋試料のSEM観察法の中でも特に広い範囲の生体構造を高解像度観察が可能であることや,繰り返し切片の観察ができることなど優れた特徴を有する手法である.さらにこの手法で作製された連続切片の観察に,61本のビームを並行照射してイメージングするマルチビームSEMを用いることにより試料の全体像を素早くかつ高分解能で画像化することができ,ミクロレベルのオーダーからナノレベルのオーダーまでの試料の三次元的な構造解析が実施可能となる.最近ではマルチビームSEMとCLEM法を組み合わせた解析により,特定分子の局在を広範囲の切片上にて可視化することができている.本解説ではATUM-SEM法,マルチビームSEMを使った広範囲試料の解析法を概説し,さらにマルチビームSEMによる広範囲CLEM法のイメージング技術についても述べる.(著者抄録)

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その他リンク： https://search-tp.jamas.or.jp/index.php?module=Default&action=Link&pub_year=2021&ichushi_jid=J04085&link_issn=&doc_id=20220118280001&doc_link_id=10.11410%2Fkenbikyo.56.3_124&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdoi.org%2F10.11410%2Fkenbikyo.56.3_124&type=J-STAGE&icon=https%3A%2F%2Fjk04.jamas.or.jp%2Ficon%2F00007_2.gif

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Centenarians have a decreased susceptibility to ageing-associated illnesses, chronic inflammation and infectious diseases1-3. Here we show that centenarians have a distinct gut microbiome that is enriched in microorganisms that are capable of generating unique secondary bile acids, including various isoforms of lithocholic acid (LCA): iso-, 3-oxo-, allo-, 3-oxoallo- and isoallolithocholic acid. Among these bile acids, the biosynthetic pathway for isoalloLCA had not been described previously. By screening 68 bacterial isolates from the faecal microbiota of a centenarian, we identified Odoribacteraceae strains as effective producers of isoalloLCA both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that the enzymes 5α-reductase (5AR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSDH) were responsible for the production of isoalloLCA. IsoalloLCA exerted potent antimicrobial effects against Gram-positive (but not Gram-negative) multidrug-resistant pathogens, including Clostridioides difficile and Enterococcus faecium. These findings suggest that the metabolism of specific bile acids may be involved in reducing the risk of infection with pathobionts, thereby potentially contributing to the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis.

DOI： 10.1038/s41586-021-03832-5

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

PURPOSE: To investigate pathological changes in blood vessels and meibomian glands (MGs) in the eyelids of sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) model mice. METHODS: We used an established major histocompatibility complex compatible, multiple minor histocompatibility antigen-mismatched sclerodermatous cGVHD mouse model. Blood vessels and MGs of eyelids from allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (allo-BMT) recipient mice and syngeneic bone marrow transplantation (syn-BMT) recipient mice were assessed by histopathology, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. Peripheral blood samples from the recipients were examined by flow cytometry. RESULTS: Allo-BMT samples showed dilating, tortuous and branching vessels and shrunk MGs in the eyelids; showed significantly higher expression of VEGFR2 (p = 0.029), CD133 (p = 0.016), GFP (p = 0.006), and α-SMA (p = 0.029) in the peripheral MG area; showed endothelial damage and activation, fibrotic change, and immune cell infiltration into MGs compared with syn-BMT samples. Fewer Ki-67+ cells were observed in allo- and syn-BMT samples than in wild-type samples (p = 0.030). Ultrastructural changes including endothelial injury and activation, fibroblast activation, granulocyte degranulation, immune cell infiltration into MGs, and necrosis, apoptosis of MG basal cells were found in allo-BMT samples compared with syn-BMT samples. CONCLUSION: A series of our studies indicated that cGVHD can cause eyelid vessel and MGs changes, including endothelial injury and activation, neovascularization, early fibrotic changes, immune cell infiltration, MG basal cell necrosis and apoptosis, and resultant MG atrophy.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.10.006

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the cerebral vasculature provides a pathway for the flow of interstitial fluid (ISF) and solutes out of the brain by intramural periarterial drainage (IPAD). Failure of IPAD leads to protein elimination failure arteriopathies such as cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). The ECM consists of a complex network of glycoproteins and proteoglycans that form distinct basement membranes (BM) around different vascular cell types. Astrocyte endfeet that are localised against the walls of blood vessels are tethered to these BMs by dystrophin associated protein complex (DPC). Alpha-dystrobrevin (α-DB) is a key dystrophin associated protein within perivascular astrocyte endfeet; its deficiency leads to a reduction in other dystrophin associated proteins, loss of AQP4 and altered ECM. In human dementia cohorts there is a positive correlation between dystrobrevin gene expression and CAA. In the present study, we test the hypotheses that (a) the positive correlation between dystrobrevin gene expression and CAA is associated with elevated expression of α-DB at glial-vascular endfeet and (b) a deficiency in α-DB results in changes to the ECM and failure of IPAD. We used human post-mortem brain tissue with different severities of CAA and transgenic α-DB deficient mice. In human post-mortem tissue we observed a significant increase in vascular α-DB with CAA (CAA vrs. Old p < 0.005, CAA vrs. Young p < 0.005). In the mouse model of α-DB deficiency, there was early modifications to vascular ECM (collagen IV and BM thickening) that translated into reduced IPAD efficiency. Our findings highlight the important role of α-DB in maintaining structure and function of ECM, particularly as a pathway for the flow of ISF and solutes out of the brain by IPAD.

DOI： 10.1186/s40478-021-01274-8

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本認知症学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

Oligodendrocytes form myelin sheaths that surround axons, contributing to saltatory conduction and proper central nervous system (CNS) function. Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) are generated during the embryonic stage and differentiate into myelinating oligodendrocytes postnatally. Ddx20 is a multifunctional, DEAD-box helicase involved in multiple cellular processes, including transcription, splicing, microRNA biogenesis, and translation. Although defects in each of these processes result in abnormal oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination, the involvement of Ddx20 in oligodendrocyte terminal differentiation remains unknown. To address this question, we used Mbp-Cre mice to generate Ddx20 conditional knockout (cKO) mice to allow for the deletion of Ddx20 from mature oligodendrocytes. Mbp-Cre;Ddx20 cKO mice demonstrated small body sizes, behavioral abnormalities, muscle weakness, and short lifespans, with mortality by the age of 2 months old. Histological analyses demonstrated significant reductions in the number of mature oligodendrocytes and drastic reductions in the expression levels of myelin-associated mRNAs, such as Mbp and Plp at postnatal day 42. The number of OPCs did not change. A thin myelin layer was observed for large-diameter axons in Ddx20 cKO mice, based on electron microscopic analysis. A bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling experiment demonstrated that terminal differentiation was perturbed from ages 2 weeks to 7 weeks in the CNS of Mbp-Cre;Ddx20 cKO mice. The activation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, which promotes myelination, was downregulated in the Ddx20 cKO mice based on immunohistochemical detection. These results indicate that Ddx20 is an essential factor for terminal differentiation of oligodendrocytes and maintenance of myelin gene expression.

DOI： 10.1002/glia.24058

PubMed

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その他リンク： https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full-xml/10.1002/glia.24058

記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：新潟県医師会  

神経細胞は電気的なシグナルを用いて情報を伝達していることはよく知られており、神経細胞同士を結びつける場所であるシナプスこそ神経細胞間の情報伝達が行われる最も重要な場所である。本稿では、神経同士の結合の状態を網羅的に解析する手法としての「コネクトミクス」、「コネクトーム」について以下の項目で概説した。1)神経細胞同士の間にあるシナプスの基本構造と役割、2)MRIなどによるマクロレベルでのコネクトミクス解析、3)光学顕微鏡によるメゾレベルのコネクトミクス解析、4)電子顕微鏡によるミクロレベルのコネクトミクス解析(複数の三次元的・立体的イメージング手法)、5)コネクトミクス解析を発展させる超広範囲・高速撮影が可能なマルチビーム走査電子顕微鏡。

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本細胞生物学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Cell-based therapy targeting spinal cord injury (SCI) is an attractive approach to promote functional recovery by replacing damaged tissue. We and other groups have reported the effectiveness of transplanting neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in SCI animal models for neuronal replacement. Glial replacement is an additional approach for tissue repair; however, the lack of robust procedures to drive iPSCs into NS/PCs which can produce glial cells has hindered the development of glial cell transplantation for the restoration of neuronal functions after SCI. Here, we established a method to generate NS/PCs with gliogenic competence (gNS/PCs) optimized for clinical relevance and utilized them as a source of therapeutic NS/PCs for SCI. We could successfully generate gNS/PCs from clinically relevant hiPSCs, which efficiently produced astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in vitro. We also performed comparison between gNS/PCs and neurogenic NS/PCs based on single cell RNA-seq analysis and found that gNS/PCs were distinguished by expression of several transcription factors including HEY2 and NFIB. After gNS/PC transplantation, the graft did not exhibit tumor-like tissue formation, indicating the safety of them as a source of cell therapy. Importantly, the gNS/PCs triggered functional recovery in an SCI animal model, with remyelination of demyelinated axons and improved motor function. Given the inherent safety of gNS/PCs and favorable outcomes observed after their transplantation, cell-based medicine using the gNS/PCs-induction procedure described here together with clinically relevant iPSCs is realistic and would be beneficial for SCI patients.

DOI： 10.1002/sctm.20-0269

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The transcription factor E74-like factor 3 (ELF3) is inactivated in a range of cancers, including biliary tract cancer (BTC). Here, we investigated the tumor-suppressive role of ELF3 in bile duct cells by identifying several previously unknown direct target genes of ELF3 that appear to be implicated in biliary duct carcinogenesis. ELF3 directly repressed ZEB2, a key regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and upregulated the expression of CGN, an integral element in lumen formation. Loss of ELF3 led to decreased cell-cell junctions and enhanced cell motility. ALOX5 and CXCL16 were also identified as additional direct targets of ELF3; their corresponding proteins 5-lipoxygenase and CXCL16 play a role in the immune response. Conditioned medium from cells overexpressing ELF3 significantly enhanced the migration of natural killer cells and CD8+ T cells toward the conditioned medium. Gene expression profiling for BTC expressing high levels of ELF3 revealed significant enrichment of the ELF3-related genes. In a BTC xenograft model, activation of ELF3 increased expression of ELF3-related genes, enhanced the tubular structure of the tumors, and led to a loss of vimentin. Overall, our results indicate that ELF3 is a key regulator of both epithelial integrity and immune responses in BTC. SIGNIFICANCE: Thease finding shows that ELF3 regulates epithelial integrity and host immune responses and functions as a tumor suppressor in biliary tract cancer. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/81/2/489/F1.large.jpg.

DOI： 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-19-2988

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Although combination of oral and transtympanic drug therapy (CT) has been proved more effective and safer for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) by some clinical trials, there are few laboratory researches on the pharmacokinetics in the inner ear following CT on account of structural limitations of the inner ear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic behaviors of CT in the inner ear of mice. Eighteen transgenic GFAP-Luc mice which express luciferase in cochlear spiral ganglion cells were divided into oral administration (OR) group, transtympanic injection route (TT) group and CT group, and luciferin was delivered into the inner ear of these mice through oral, transtympanic or combined routes, respectively. A new in vivo imaging system was used to observe luciferin/luciferase signals and the compare the pharmacokinetics of different administration routes in the inner ear of mice. Bioluminescence signals were observed in the inner ear 3.3 ± 2.6 min after CT, significantly earlier than that of OR group (15.8 ± 7.4 min). CT owned the longest reaching-peak time and largest area under the curve (AUC) among three groups. Compared to TT, CT had longer biological half-life and higher AUC value, but did not displayed stronger peak value. There were significant differences in the peak values between OR group and TT group and between OR group and CT group. This study suggests that the OR route is less effective than the TT or CT route, and combination of OR and TT can deliver more drugs into the inner ear and confer a longer therapeutic window, but cannot increase drug intensity.

DOI： 10.3389/fneur.2021.641593

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Metabolic syndrome, a condition involving obesity and hypertension, increases the risk of aging-associated diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Here, we demonstrated that high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice accumulated oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in macrophages through the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). The ox-LDL-loaded macrophages were responsible for visual impairment in HFD mice along with a disorder of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), which is required for photoreceptor outer segment renewal. RAS repressed ELAVL1, which reduced PPARγ, impeding ABCA1 induction to levels that are sufficient to excrete overloaded cholesterol within the macrophages. The ox-LDL-loaded macrophages expressed inflammatory cytokines and attacked the RPE. An antihypertensive drug, angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blocker, resolved the decompensation of lipid metabolism in the macrophages and reversed the RPE condition and visual function in HFD mice. AT1R signaling could be a future therapeutic target for macrophage-associated aging diseases, such as AMD.

DOI： 10.1038/s42003-020-01483-2

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Transcripts of alpha-fetoprotein (Afp), H19, and insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf2) genes are highly expressed in mouse fetal liver, but decrease drastically during maturation. While transcriptional regulation of these genes has been well studied, the post-transcriptional regulation of their developmental decrease is poorly understood. Here, we show that shortening of poly(A) tails and subsequent RNA decay are largely responsible for the postnatal decrease of Afp, H19, and Igf2 transcripts in mouse liver. IGF2 mRNA binding protein 1 (IMP1), which regulates stability and translation efficiency of target mRNAs, binds to these fetal liver transcripts. When IMP1 is exogenously expressed in mouse adult liver, fetal liver transcripts show higher expression and possess longer poly(A) tails, suggesting that IMP1 stabilizes them. IMP1 declines concomitantly with fetal liver transcripts as liver matures. Instead, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that promote RNA decay, such as cold shock domain containing protein E1 (CSDE1), K-homology domain splicing regulatory protein (KSRP), and CUG-BP1 and ETR3-like factors 1 (CELF1), bind to 3' regions of fetal liver transcripts. These data suggest that transitions among RBPs associated with fetal liver transcripts shift regulation from stabilization to decay, leading to a postnatal decrease in those fetal transcripts.

DOI： 10.3390/ijms21239319

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出版者・発行元：Research Square Platform LLC  

<title>Abstract</title>
Centenarians, or individuals who have lived more than a century, represent the ultimate model of successful longevity associated with decreased susceptibility to ageing-associated illness and chronic inflammation. The gut microbiota is considered to be a critical determinant of human health and longevity. Here we show that centenarians (average 107 yo) have a distinct gut microbiome enriched in microbes capable of generating unique secondary bile acids, including iso-, 3-oxo-, and isoallo-lithocholic acid (LCA), as compared to elderly (85-89 yo) and young (21-55 yo) controls. Among these bile acids, the biosynthetic pathway for isoalloLCA had not been described previously. By screening 68 bacterial isolates from a centenarian’s faecal microbiota, we identified <italic>Parabacteroides merdae</italic> and <italic>Odoribacteraceae</italic> strains as effective producers of isoalloLCA. Furthermore, we generated and tested mutant strains of <italic>P. merdae</italic> to show that the enzymes 5α-reductase (5AR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3βHSDH) were responsible for isoalloLCA production. This secondary bile acid derivative exerted the most potent antimicrobial effects among the tested bile acid compounds against gram-positive (but not gram-negative) multidrug-resistant pathogens, including <italic>Clostridioides difficile</italic> and vancomycin-resistant <italic>Enterococcus faecium</italic>. These findings suggest that specific bile acid metabolism may be involved in reducing the risk of pathobiont infection, thereby potentially contributing to longevity.

DOI： 10.21203/rs.3.rs-115113/v1

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その他リンク： https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-115113/v1.html

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

The transplantation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has beneficial effects on spinal cord injury (SCI). However, while there are many subtypes of NPCs with different regional identities, the subtype of iPSC-derived NPCs that is most appropriate for cell therapy for SCI has not been identified. Here, we generated forebrain- and spinal cord-type NPCs from human iPSCs and grafted them onto the injured spinal cord in mice. These two types of NPCs retained their regional identities after transplantation and exhibited different graft-host interconnection properties. NPCs with spinal cord regional identity but not those with forebrain identity resulted in functional improvement in SCI mice, especially in those with mild-to-moderate lesions. This study highlights the importance of the regional identity of human iPSC-derived NPCs used in cell therapy for SCI.

DOI： 10.1186/s13041-020-00662-w

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その他リンク： http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13041-020-00662-w/fulltext.html

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

BACKGROUND: MIRAGE syndrome is a recently discovered rare genetic disease characterized by myelodysplasia (M), infection (I), growth restriction (R), adrenal hypoplasia (A), genital phenotypes (G), and enteropathy (E), caused by a gain-of-function mutation in the SAMD9 gene. We encountered a girl with molecularly-confirmed MIRAGE syndrome who developed steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome. CASE PRESENTATION: She was born at 33 weeks gestational age with a birth weight of 1064 g. She showed growth failure, mild developmental delays, intractable enteropathy and recurrent pneumonia. She was diagnosed as MIRAGE syndrome by whole exome sequencing and a novel SAMD9 variant (c.4615 T > A, p.Leu1539Ile) was identified at age four. Biopsied skin fibroblast cells showed changes in the endosome system that are characteristic of MIRAGE syndrome, supporting the genetic diagnosis. Proteinuria was noted at age one, following nephrotic syndrome at age five. A renal biopsy showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) with immune deposits. Steroid treatment was ineffective. Because we speculated that her nephrosis was a result of genetic FSGS, we decided not to introduce immunosuppressive agents and instead started enalapril to reduce proteinuria. Although her proteinuria persisted, her renal function was normal at age eight. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first detailed report of a MIRAGE syndrome patient with nephrotic syndrome. Because patients with MIRAGE syndrome have structural abnormalities in the endosomal system, we speculate that dysfunction of endocytosis in podocytes might be a possible mechanism for proteinuria.

DOI： 10.1186/s12882-020-02011-4

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その他リンク： http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12882-020-02011-4/fulltext.html

掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.06.004

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Chronic graft-vs-host disease (cGVHD) is a multifactorial inflammatory disease that affects patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Multiple organs, including the lacrimal glands (LGs), are negatively affected by cGVHD and lose function due to the resultant fibrosis. An abnormal immune response is thought to be a major factor in the development of chronic ocular GVHD, which is currently treated primarily with immunosuppressive therapies. However, all the treatments yield unsatisfactory outcomes, and additional treatment strategies are needed. To meet this unmet medical need, we aimed to elucidate an additional pathway of chronic ocular GVHD. Our findings suggest a potential association between chronic ocular GVHD pathogenesis and stress-induced cellular senescence through the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Senescent cells produce cytokines and chemokines, such as IL-6 and CXCL9. Indeed, senescent cell accumulation was presumably associated with cGVHD development in LGs, as evidenced by the improvement in LGs after the selective elimination of senescent cells (senolysis) with ABT-263. Results in the sclerodermatous cGVHD mouse model suggest that inhibiting the major components of the SASP, including IL-6 and CXCL9, with senolytics is a potential novel strategy for treating cGVHD-affected LGs. Taken together, our results indicate a potential association between the SASP and cGVHD development in LGs and suggest that targeted senolytic treatment may be a new therapeutic option for this disease.

DOI： 10.1096/fj.201900218R

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The nuclear envelope (NE) continues to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Proper partitioning of NE and ER is crucial for cellular activity, but the key factors maintaining the boundary between NE and ER remain to be elucidated. Here we show that the conserved membrane proteins Lem2 and Lnp1 cooperatively play a crucial role in maintaining the NE-ER membrane boundary in fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Cells lacking both Lem2 and Lnp1 caused severe growth defects associated with aberrant expansion of the NE/ER membranes, abnormal leakage of nuclear proteins, and abnormal formation of vacuolar-like structures in the nucleus. Overexpression of the ER membrane protein Apq12 rescued the growth defect associated with membrane disorder caused by the loss of Lem2 and Lnp1. Genetic analysis showed that Apq12 had overlapping functions with Lnp1. We propose that a membrane protein network with Lem2 and Lnp1 acts as a critical factor to maintain the NE-ER boundary.

DOI： 10.1038/s42003-020-0999-9

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：論文集(書籍)内論文   出版者・発行元：Springer Singapore  

The two cardiac progenitor cell lineages, cardiac neural crest cells (cNCCs) and the second heart field (SHF), play key roles in the development of the cardiac outflow tract (OFT). Both cardiac progenitor cells interact with each other and contribute to OFT formation cooperatively. The neurovascular guiding molecule, semaphorin 3c (Sema3c), is thought to serve as a key attractant for the migration of cNCCs. A previous study reported that Tbx1 null mice showed a significant reduction in Sema3c expression in the OFT region [1]. However, the regulatory effect of Tbx1 on Sema3c was unclear. Here, we show that Sema3c plays key roles in cNCCs-SHF interactions through the regulation by Tbx1 and other molecules during OFT development [2].

DOI： 10.1007/978-981-15-1185-1_58

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DOI： 10.1126/scitranslmed.aau3538

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134686

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

BACKGROUND: A novel biocompatible sealant composed of Alaska pollock-derived gelatin (ApGltn) has recently shown good burst strength and biocompatibility in a porcine aorta. The purpose of this study was to investigate the bonding strength and biocompatibility of the ApGltn sealant in transected digital nerves of fresh frozen cadavers and in the sciatic nerves of a rat model. METHODS: Eighty human digital nerves of fresh frozen cadavers were transected for biomechanical traction testing. They were treated with four surgical interventions: (1) suture plus ApGltn sealant; (2) suture; (3) ApGltn sealant; and (4) fibrin sealant. Forty-three sciatic nerves of male Wistar rats were used for functional and histopathologic evaluation. They were treated with six surgical interventions: (1) suture plus ApGltn sealant; (2) suture; (3) ApGltn sealant; (4) fibrin sealant; (5) resection with a 5-mm gap (10 rats per group); and (6) sham operation (three rats). Macroscopic confirmation, muscle weight measurement, and histopathologic findings including G-ratio were examined 8 weeks after the procedure. RESULTS: The maximum failure load of the ApGltn sealant was significantly higher than that of a fibrin sealant (0.22 ± 0.05 N versus 0.06 ± 0.04 N). The maximum failure load of the ApGltn sealant was significantly lower that of suture plus ApGltn sealant (1.37 N) and suture (1.27 N). Functional evaluation and histologic examination showed that sciatic nerves repaired with ApGltn sealant showed similar nerve recovery compared to repair with the suture and fibrin sealant. CONCLUSION: The ApGltn sealant showed higher bonding strength and equal effect of nerve regeneration when compared with the fibrin sealant.

DOI： 10.1097/PRS.0000000000008489

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DOI： 10.1093/jnen/nlz099

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記述言語：英語  

Genetic lineage-tracing techniques are powerful tools for studying specific cell populations in development and pathogenesis. Previous techniques have mainly involved systems for tracing a single gene, which are limited in their ability to facilitate direct comparisons of the contributions of different cell lineages. We have developed a new combinatorial system for tracing all three germ layers using self-cleaving 2A peptides and multiple site-specific recombinases (SSRs). In the resulting TRiCK (TRiple Coloured germ layer Knock-in) mice, the three germ layers are conditionally and simultaneously labelled with distinct fluorescent proteins via embryogenesis. We show that previously reported ectopic expressions of lineage markers are the outcome of secondary gene expression. The results presented here also indicate that the commitment of caudal axial stem cells to neural or mesodermal fate proceeds without lineage fluctuations, contrary to the notion of their bi-potency. Moreover, we developed IMES, an optimized tissue clearing method that is highly compatible with a variety of fluorescent proteins and immunostaining, and the combined use of TRiCK mice and IMES can facilitate comprehensive analyses of dynamic contributions of all three germ layers.

DOI： 10.1242/dev.174938

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DOI： 10.1210/en.2019-00306

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：日本緑内障学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2019.07.001

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-019-46069-z

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

In eukaryotic cells, chromosomes are confined to the nucleus, which is compartmentalized by the nuclear membranes; these are continuous with the endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Maintaining the homeostasis of these membranes is an important cellular activity performed by lipid metabolic enzymes. However, how lipid metabolic enzymes affect nuclear membrane functions remains to be elucidated. We found that the very-long-chain fatty acid elongase Elo2 is located in the nuclear membrane and prevents lethal defects associated with nuclear membrane ruptures in mutants of the nuclear membrane proteins Lem2 and Bqt4 in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Lipid composition analysis shows that t20:0/24:0 phytoceramide (a conjugate of C20:0 phytosphingosine and C24:0 fatty acid) is a major ceramide species in S. pombe The quantity of this ceramide is reduced in the absence of Lem2, and restored by increased expression of Elo2. Furthermore, loss of S. pombe Elo2 can be rescued by its human orthologs. These results suggest that the conserved very-long-chain fatty acid elongase producing the ceramide component is essential for nuclear membrane integrity and cell viability in eukaryotes.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

DOI： 10.1242/jcs.229021

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A decellularized uterine scaffold (DUS) prepared from rats permits recellularization and regeneration of uterine tissues when placed onto a partially excised uterus and supports pregnancy in a fashion comparable to the intact uterus. The underlying extracellular matrix (ECM) together with an acellular, perfusable vascular architecture preserved in DUS is thought to be responsible for appropriate regeneration of the uterus. To investigate this concept, we examined the effect of the orientation of the DUS-preserving ECM and the vascular architecture on uterine regeneration through placement of a DUS onto a partially defective uterine area in the reversed orientation such that the luminal face of the DUS was outside and the serosal face was inside. We characterized the tissue structure and function of the regenerated uterus, comparing the outcome to that when the DUS was placed in the correct orientation. Histological analysis revealed that aberrant structures including ectopic location of glands and an abnormal lining of smooth muscle layers were observed significantly more frequently in the reversed group than in the correct group (70% vs. 30%, P &lt; 0.05). Despite the changes in tiss

DOI： 10.1093/biolre/ioz004

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Oxford University Press (OUP)  

DOI： 10.1093/biolre/ioz004

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Neurochemistry International  

© 2019 Elsevier Ltd Striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) control motor function. Hyper- or hypo-activity of MSNs coincides with basal ganglia-related movement disorders. Based on the assumption that lasting alterations in neuronal activity lead to structural changes in the brain, understanding these structural alterations may be used to infer MSN functional abnormalities. To infer MSN function from structural data, understanding how long-lasting alterations in MSN activity affect brain morphology is essential. To address this, we utilized a simplified model of functional induction by stimulating MSNs expressing channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2). Subsequent structural alterations which induced long-term activity changes in these MSNs were investigated in the striatal pathway and its associated regions by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and histological assessment with super-resolution microscopy. DTI detected changes in the striatum, substantia nigra, and motor cortex. Histological assessment found a reduction in the diameter of myelinated cortical axons as well as MSN dendrites and axons. The structural changes showed a high correlation between DTI parameters and histological data. These r

DOI： 10.1016/j.neuint.2019.02.017

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Cerebral tracts connect separated regions within a brain and serve as fundamental structures that support integrative brain functions. However, understanding the mechanisms of cerebral tract development, macro-circuit formation, and related disorders has been hampered by the lack of an in vitro model. Here, we developed a human stem cell-derived model of cerebral tracts, which is composed of two spheroids of cortical neurons and a robust fascicle of axons linking these spheroids reciprocally. In a microdevice, two spheroids of cerebral neurons extended axons into a microchannel between the spheroids and spontaneously formed an axon fascicle, mimicking a cerebral tract. We found that the formation of axon fascicle was significantly promoted when two spheroids extended axons toward each other compared with axons extended from only one spheroid. The two spheroids were able to communicate electrically through the axon fascicle. This model tissue could facilitate studies of cerebral tract development and diseases.

DOI： 10.1016/j.isci.2019.03.012

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The axonal conduction of action potentials affects the absolute time it takes to transmit nerve impulses as well as temporal summation at destination synapses. At the physiological level, oligodendrocyte depolarization facilitates axonal conduction along myelinated fibers in the hippocampus; however, the functional significance of this facilitation is largely unknown. In this study, we examined the physiology of the facilitation of axonal conduction by investigating the changes in synaptic responses at destination synapses using male and female mice in which channelrhodopsin-2 expression was restricted to oligodendrocytes. The subiculum, one of the projection areas of the examined axons at the alveus of the hippocampus, is divided into three regions (proximal, mid, and distal) and contains two types of principal neurons: regular firing and bursting pyramidal cells. We found a significant increase in excitatory synaptic responses following optogenetic oligodendrocyte depolarization in bursting neurons at two of the three regions, but not in regular firing neurons at any region. The long-term potentiation (LTP) induced by theta burst stimulation at the synapses showing a significant

DOI： 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1619-18.2019

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Stem Cells Translational Medicine  

© 2018 The Authors Stem Cells Translational Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of AlphaMed Press Tumorigenesis is an important problem that needs to be addressed in the field of human stem/progenitor cell transplantation for the treatment of subacute spinal cord injury (SCI). When certain “tumorigenic” cell lines are transplanted into the spinal cord of SCI mice model, there is initial improvement of motor function, followed by abrupt deterioration secondary to the effect of tumor growth. A significant proportion of the transplanted cells remains undifferentiated after transplantation and is thought to increase the risk of tumorigenesis. In this study, using lentiviral vectors, we introduced the herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSVtk) gene into a human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem/progenitor cell (hiPSC-NS/PC) line that is known to undergo tumorigenic transformation. Such approach enables selective ablation of the immature proliferating cells and thereby prevents subsequent tumor formation. In vitro, the HSVtk system successfully ablated the immature proliferative neural cells while preserving mature postmitotic neuronal cells. Similar results were observed in vivo following transplantation into the injured spinal cords of immune-deficient (nonobese diabetic–severe combined immune-deficient) mice. Ablation of the proliferating cells exerted a protective effect on the motor function which was regained after transplantation, simultaneously defending the spinal cord from the harmful tumor growth. These results suggest a potentially promising role of suicide genes in opposing tumorigenesis during stem cell therapy. This system allows both preventing and treating tumorigenesis following hiPSC-NS/PC transplantation without sacrificing the improved motor function. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2019;8:260&270.

DOI： 10.1002/sctm.18-0096

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担当区分：最終著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Bone  

© 2018 The Authors The periosteum and mineralized bone are innervated by nerves that sense pain. These include both myelinated and unmyelinated neurons with either free nerve endings or bearing nociceptors. Parasympathetic and sympathetic autonomic nerves also innervate bone. However, little is known about the route sensory nerves take leaving the epiphyses of long bones at the adult knee joint. Here, we used transgenic mice that express fluorescent Venus protein in Schwann cells (Sox10-Venus mice) to visualize myelinated and unmyelinated nerves in the tibial epiphysis. Immunofluorescence to detect a pan-neuronal marker and the sensory neuron markers calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) also revealed Schwann cell-associated sensory neurons. Foramina in the intercondylar area of the tibia were conserved between rodents and primates. Venus-labeled fibers were detected within bone marrow of the proximal epiphysis, exited through foramina along with blood vessels in the intercondylar area of the tibia, and joined Venus-labeled fibers of the synovial membrane and meniscus. These data suggest that innervation of the subchondral plate and trabecular bone within the tibial epiphysis carries pain signals from the knee joint to the brain through intercondylar foramina.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bone.2018.11.007

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：American Journal of Ophthalmology  

© 2018 Elsevier Inc. Purpose: We sought to investigate the association between the severity of bullous keratopathy and proinflammatory cytokine levels in the aqueous humor (AqH). Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: This study included a total of 95 eyes: 62 with bullous keratopathy and 33 that underwent cataract surgery. Central corneal thickness (CCT) and central corneal volume within 4 and 6 mm (CCV 4mm and CCV 6mm , respectively) were determined using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. A total of 95 AqH samples were collected at the beginning of surgery. The levels of cytokines (interleukins [ILs]-1α -1β -4, -6, -8, -10, -12p70, -13, -17A, interferon [IFN]-α IFN-γ monocyte chemotactic protein [MCP]-1, E-selectin, P-selectin, and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 [sICAM-1]) in the AqH were measured using multiplex beads immunoassay. We evaluated the correlation among AqH cytokine levels, CCT, CCV 4mm , and CCV 6mm in eyes with bullous keratopathy. Results: The levels of protein, ILs-4, -6, -8, -10, -12p70, and -17A, MCP-1, IFN-γ E-selectin, P-selectin, and sICAM-1 were significantly higher in eyes with bullous keratopathy compared with those of the normal control subjects (all P <.0025). CCT was significantly correlated with the levels of IL-13 (r = 0.551, P =.0009) and sICAM-1 (r = 0.448, P =.0005). CCV 4mm was significantly correlated with the levels of IL-13 (r = 0.514, P =.0022) and sICAM-1 (r = 0.404, P =.0019). CCV 6mm was significantly correlated with the level of sICAM-1 (r = 0.459, P =.0003). Conclusion: The severity of corneal edema in eyes with bullous keratopathy was associated with the levels of specific cytokines in the AqH.

DOI： 10.1016/j.ajo.2018.10.008

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Stem Cell Reports  

© 2018 The Author(s) Fehlings and colleagues investigated the use of directly reprogrammed human neural progenitor cells biased toward an oligodendrogenic fate (oNPCs) combined with sustained delivery of chondroitinase ABC to treat chronic spinal cord injury in an immunodeficient rat model. This combinatorial therapy increased long-term survival of oNPCs, facilitated greater oligodendrocyte differentiation, remyelination of the spared axons by engrafted oNPCs, and neurobehavioral recovery.

DOI： 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.10.017

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Stem Cell Reports  

© 2018 The Authors In this article, Okano and colleagues show that the GSI-treated hiPSC-NS/PCs caused significantly enhanced axonal regrowth, remyelination, inhibitory synapse formation with the host neural circuitry, and reticulo spinal tract fiber formation. These favorable outcomes contributed to motor function improvement. Therefore, treating cells with GSI provides a beneficial effect after transplantation, even in the chronic phase following SCI.

DOI： 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.10.022

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Primates  

© 2018, The Author(s). Advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computational analysis technology have enabled comparisons among various primate brains in a three-dimensional electronic format. Results from comparative studies provide information about common features across primates and species-specific features of neuroanatomy. Investigation of various species of non-human primates is important for understanding such features, but the majority of comparative MRI studies have been based on experimental primates, such as common marmoset, macaques, and chimpanzee. A major obstacle has been the lack of a database that includes non-experimental primates’ brain MRIs. To facilitate scientific discoveries in the field of comparative neuroanatomy and brain evolution, we launched a collaborative project to develop an open-resource repository of non-human primate brain images obtained using ex vivo MRI. As an initial open resource, here we release a collection of structural MRI and diffusion tensor images obtained from 12 species: pygmy marmoset, owl monkey, white-fronted capuchin, crab-eating macaque, Japanese macaque, bonnet macaque, toque macaque, Sykes’ monkey, red-tailed monkey, Schmidt’s guenon, de Brazza’s guenon, and lar gibbon. Sixteen postmortem brain samples from the 12 species, stored in the Japan Monkey Centre (JMC), were scanned using a 9.4-T MRI scanner and made available through the JMC collaborative research program (http://www.j-monkey.jp/BIR/index_e.html). The expected significant contributions of the JMC Primates Brain Imaging Repository include (1) resources for comparative neuroscience research, (2) preservation of various primate brains, including those of endangered species, in a permanent digital form, (3) resources with higher resolution for identifying neuroanatomical features, compared to previous MRI atlases, (4) resources for optimizing methods of scanning large fixed brains, and (5) references for veterinary neuroradiology. User-initiated research projects beyond these contributions are also anticipated.

DOI： 10.1007/s10329-018-0694-3

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Stem Cells Translational Medicine  

© 2018 The Authors Stem Cells Translational Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of AlphaMed Press Cell transplantation therapy utilizing neural precursor cells (NPCs) is a conceptually attractive strategy for traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) to replace lost cells, remyelinate denuded host axons and promote tissue sparing. However, the number of mature oligodendrocytes that differentiate from typical NPCs remains limited. Herein, we describe a novel approach to bias the differentiation of directly reprogrammed human NPCs (drNPCs) toward a more oligodendrogenic fate (oNPCs) while preserving their tripotency. The oNPCs derived from different lines of human NPCs showed similar characteristics in vitro. To assess the in vivo efficacy of this approach, we used oNPCs derived from drNPCs and transplanted them into a SCI model in immunodeficient Rowett Nude (RNU) rats. The transplanted cells showed significant migration along the rostrocaudal axis and proportionally greater differentiation into oligodendrocytes. These cells promoted perilesional tissue sparing and axonal remyelination, which resulted in recovery of motor function. Moreover, after transplantation of the oNPCs into intact spinal cords of immunodeficient NOD/SCID mice, we detected no evidence of tumor formation even after 5 months of observation. Thus, biasing drNPC differentiation along an oligodendroglial lineage represents a promising approach to promote tissue sparing, axonal remyelination, and neural repair after traumatic SCI. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2018;7:806–818.

DOI： 10.1002/sctm.17-0269

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：eNeuro  

Nogo receptor-1 (NgR1) signaling is involved in the limitation of axonal regeneration following spinal cord injury (SCI) through collapsing the growth cone and inhibiting neurite outgrowth. Lateral olfactory tract usher substance (LOTUS), a NgR antagonist, suppresses these pathological conditions. A previous report demonstrated the positive effects of LOTUS expression on motor function through raphespinal tract regeneration using pan-neuronally LOTUS-overexpressing transgenic mice. However, this report used a hemi-section model, which does not represent the majority of clinical SCI cases, and lacked a detailed histological analysis of other descending tracts. To determine the true therapeutic effects of LOTUS, we used a more clinically relevant contusive SCI model in female transgenic mice. Definitive tracing analyses revealed that LOTUS promoted the extensive regeneration of the reticulospinal tract across the lesion site and suppressed axonal dieback of corticospinal tract (CST). A significant increase in raphespinal tract fibers was seen from the subacute to the chronic phase after the injury, strongly suggesting that LOTUS promoted translesional elongation of this tract. Furthe

DOI： 10.1523/ENEURO.0303-18.2018

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：SAGE Publications  

DOI： 10.1177/0022034518759278

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その他リンク： http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full-xml/10.1177/0022034518759278

記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本小児神経学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)  

PURPOSE: To report the characteristics of the ocular surface in a previously established sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) mouse model. METHODS: The ocular surface features and tear film parameters of the mouse model were assessed by histopathology, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry. RESULTS: The mice exhibited loss of body weight and decreased tear secretion (P < 0.001), mimicking the clinical features of patients with cGVHD. Ocular examination demonstrated significant corneal epithelial staining, conjunctival (P < 0.001), and eyelid (P = 0.015) fibrosis compared with the control mice. The density of both goblet cells (P = 0.043) and microvilli was lower (P < 0.001), and the microvilli were shorter (P = 0.007) in the conjunctiva of cGVHD mice than those of the controls. The immunohistochemical studies demonstrated greater expression of CD45, CD4, and CD8 cells in the conjunctiva and eyelid tissues compared with the controls (P < 0.05 for all). In addition, reduced Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)+ cells were found in both the peripheral blood (P < 0.001) and conjunctiva (P = 0.042) of cGVHD mice compared with the controls. CONCLUSIONS: The constellation of these findings suggests that the sclerodermatous cGVHD mouse model well recapitulates ocular manifestations of cGVHD in humans. This model can be used to study the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and treatment of chronic ocular graft-versus-host disease.

DOI： 10.1097/ico.0000000000001487

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：SPRINGER  

Diabetes is the main cause of gastroparesis accompanying decreased neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in myenteric ganglia of the stomach. Decreased nNOS expression in the stomach also results from defects in apolipoprotein E (ApoE), which is secreted by astrocytes and has neuroprotective effects on the central nervous system. However, the roles of ApoE and enteric glial cells on gastric motility are uncertain. In this study, ApoE and enteric glial cell alterations in gastroparesis were investigated.
Type 2 diabetic (db/db) mice and ApoE-knockout mice were analyzed. Gastric emptying was measured using the C-13 acetic acid breath test. Expression levels of the pan-neuronal marker, protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5), and glial marker, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were examined by immunohistochemistry. Neural stem cells (NSCs) were injected into the gastric antral wall of ApoE-knockout mice.
Delayed gastric emptying was observed in 27% of db/db mice with significant decreases in serum ApoE levels and GFAP expression in the gastric antrum. Gastric emptying was also delayed in ApoE-knockout mice, with a significant decrease in GFAP expression, but no change in PGP 9.5 expression. Transplantation of NSCs improved gastric emptying in ApoE-knockout mice through supplementation of GFAP-positive cells.
Our results suggest that decreased enteric glial cells in ApoE-knockout mice are crucial for development of delayed gastric emptying, and NSC transplantation is effective in restoring myenteric ganglia and gastric motility.

DOI： 10.1007/s10620-017-4820-7

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-017-06964-9

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その他リンク： http://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-06964-9.pdf

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：NLM (Medline)  

The original version of this Article contained an error in the spelling of the author Nobuhiko Ohno, which was incorrectly given as Noubuhiko Ohno. This has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-017-01594-1

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP  

Astrocytes become reactive following various brain insults; however, the functions of reactive astrocytes are poorly understood. Here, we show that reactive astrocytes function as phagocytes after transient ischemic injury and appear in a limited spatiotemporal pattern. Following transient brain ischemia, phagocytic astrocytes are observed within the ischemic penumbra region during the later stage of ischemia. However, phagocytic microglia are mainly observed within the ischemic core region during the earlier stage of ischemia. Phagocytic astrocytes upregulate ABCA1 and its pathway molecules, MEGF10 and GULP1, which are required for phagocytosis, and upregulation of ABCA1 alone is sufficient for enhancement of phagocytosis in vitro. Disrupting ABCA1 in reactive astrocytes result in fewer phagocytic inclusions after ischemia. Together, these findings suggest that astrocytes are transformed into a phagocytic phenotype as a result of increase in ABCA1 and its pathway molecules and contribute to remodeling of damaged tissues and penumbra networks.Astrocytic phagocytosis has been shown to play a role in synaptic pruning during development, but whether adult astrocytes possess phagocytic

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-017-01594-1

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ASSOC RESEARCH VISION OPHTHALMOLOGY INC  

PURPOSE. Adenocarcinomas or adenomas derived from pigmented ciliary epithelium (APCE) are exceptionally rare ocular tumors. These tumors have pigmented and epithelioid features, and some APCEs are negative for keratin markers and positive for melanocytic markers. It is especially difficult to distinguish APCEs from uveal melanoma (UM). Accordingly, we examined protein expression and genetic mutations associated with APCE to facilitate diagnosis.
METHODS. Five APCE and 11 UM samples were obtained from patients during surgical resection at our institute. APCE and UM ocular structures were compared comprehensively. Protein expression and genetic alterations involved in malignant melanoma were evaluated.
RESULTS. SOX10 was expressed diffusely in all 11 UMs and in surrounding uveal or choroidal melanocytes, but not in the APCEs or nontumorous pigmented epithelia. Additionally, the expression patterns of cytokeratins and melanocytic markers differed between UMs and APCEs. We identified BRAF V600E mutations in four of five APCE samples, but not in the 11 UM samples. Moreover, GNAQ or GNA11 mutations were found in 10 of the 11 UM samples, but not in APCE samples. NRAS mutations were not observed in either tumor group examined.
CONCLUSIONS. APCE is a separate entity distinguished from UM by the absence of SOX10 expression and presence of the BRAF V600E mutation. These results have implications for diagnosis, providing a means to distinguish between UM and APCE.

DOI： 10.1167/iovs.17-22362

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0182339

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.mod.2017.04.490

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本脊椎脊髄病学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

The number of elderly patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) is increasing worldwide, representing a serious burden for both the affected patients and the community. Previous studies have demonstrated that neural stem cell (NSC) transplantation is an effective treatment for SCI in young animals. Here we show that NSC transplantation is as effective in aged mice as it is in young mice, even though aged mice exhibit more severe neurological deficits after SCI. NSCs grafted into aged mice exhibited better survival than those grafted into young mice. Furthermore, we show that the neurotrophic factor HGF plays a key role in the enhanced functional recovery after NSC transplantation observed in aged mice with SCI. The unexpected results of the present study suggest that NSC transplantation is a potential therapeutic modality for SCI, even in elderly patients.

DOI： 10.1016/j.stemcr.2017.01.013

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

DOI： 10.1002/sctm.16-0162

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

In this study, we propose a novel method for inducing neuronal cells by briefly exposing them to small-molecule cocktails in a step-by-step manner. Global gene expression analysis with immunohistochemical staining and calcium flux assays reveal the generation of neurons from mouse embryonic fibroblasts. In addition, time-lapse imaging of neural precursor-specific enhancer expression and global gene expression analyses show that the neurons are generated by passing through a neural crest-like precursor stage. Consistent with these results, the neural crest-like cells are able to differentiate into neural crest lineage cells, such as sympathetic neurons, adipocytes, osteocytes, and smooth muscle cells. Therefore, these results indicate that brief exposure to chemical compounds could expand and induce a substantial multipotent cell population without viral transduction.

DOI： 10.1002/1873-3468.12572

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Nature  

The involvement of tissue ischemia in obesity-induced kidney injury remains to be elucidated. Compared with low fat diet (LFD)-mice, high fat diet (HFD)-fed mice became obese with tubular enlargement, glomerulomegaly and peritubular capillary rarefaction, and exhibited both tubular and glomerular damages. In HFD-fed mice, despite the increase in renal pimonidazole-positive areas, the expressions of the hypoxia-responsive genes such as Prolyl-hydroxylase PHD2, a dominant oxygen sensor, and VEGFA were unchanged indicating impaired hypoxic response. Tamoxifen inducible proximal tubules (PT)-specific Phd2 knockout (Phd2-cKO) mice and their littermate control mice (Control) were created and fed HFD or LFD. Control mice on HFD (Control HFD) exhibited renal damages and renal ischemia with impaired hypoxic response compared with those on LFD. After tamoxifen treatment, HFD-fed knockout mice (Phd2-cKO HFD) had increased peritubular capillaries and the increased expressions of hypoxia responsive genes compared to Control HFD mice. Phd2-cKO HFD also exhibited the mitigation of tubular damages, albuminuria and glomerulomegaly. In human PT cells, the increased expressions of hypoxia-inducible genes in hypoxic condition were attenuated by free fatty acids. Thus, aberrant hypoxic responses due to dysfunction of PHD2 caused both glomerular and tubular damages in HFD-induced obese mice. Phd2-inactivation provides a novel strategy against obesity-induced kidney injury.

DOI： 10.1038/srep36533

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その他リンク： http://www.nature.com/articles/srep36533

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.diff.2016.04.003

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

There are more than 50 times the number of chronic-phase spinal cord injury (SCI) patients than there are acute patients, and over half of all SCI patients are severely disabled. However, research focusing on chronic severe contusional SCI remains very rare. Here, we evaluated whether chondroitinase ABC (C-ABC), a degradative enzyme directed against chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), and treadmill rehabilitation could exert synergistic therapeutic actions against chronic severe contusional SCI. First, we induced severe contusional SCI in adult rats, and administered C-ABC intrathecally at 6 weeks post-injury for a period of one week. Next, we performed treadmill rehabilitation from weeks 6 to 14 after SCI, for a total period of eight weeks. The initiation of treadmill rehabilitation triggered slight recovery between weeks 6 and 9, whereas C-ABC administration stimulated a third phase of recovery between weeks 12 and 14. Histologically, the C-ABC-treated rats showed an increase in the transverse residual tissue area and the extent of neuronal fiber regeneration at a site caudal to the lesion epicenter, and regrowth of putatively regenerating serotonergic fibers was significantly increased at the epicenter. We suggest that, when combined with intensive rehabilitation, C-ABC may play a beneficial role, even in severe and chronic SCI.

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2016.07.005

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Allodynia, a form of neuropathic pain, is defined as pain in response to a non-nociceptive stimulus. The brain regions responsible for pain, which are not normally activated, can be activated in allodynic mice by providing a suitable stimulus to Aβ-fibers, which transmit signals from tactile sensory fibers. Functional MRI (fMRI) can be used to objectively observe abnormal brain activation. In the present study, fMRI was conducted to investigate allodynia in mice; allodynia was generated by surgical injury at the L4 spinal nerve root, thus selectively stimulating sensory nerve fibers. In intact mice, only the primary somatosensory cortex (S1) was activated by stimulation of Aβ-fibers. Meanwhile, allodynic mice showed significantly higher BOLD signals in the anterior cingulate area (ACA) and thalamus. Using resting state fMRI, both degree and eigenvector centrality were significantly decreased in the contralateral S1, clustering coefficient and local efficiency were significantly increased in the ACA, and betweenness centrality was significantly higher in the ventral posterolateral nucleus of the thalamus. These results suggest that the observed abnormal BOLD activation is associated with defects in Aβ-fibers when Aβ-fibers in allodynic mice are selectively stimulated. The objective approach enabled by fMRI can improve our understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy.

DOI： 10.1038/srep37802

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その他リンク： http://www.nature.com/articles/srep37802

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Society for Neuroscience  

DOI： 10.1523/jneurosci.0229-16.2016

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本小児神経学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

The spatiotemporal distribution of drugs in the inner ear cannot be precisely evaluated because of its small area and complex structure. In the present study, we used hyaluronic acid (HA)-dispersed luciferin to image transgenic mice and to determine the effect of HA on controlled drug delivery to the cochlea. GFAP-luc mice, which express luciferase in cochlear spiral ganglion cells, were subcutaneously administered HA-luciferin (HA-sc) or luciferin dissolved in saline (NS-sc) or intraperitoneally administered luciferin dissolved in saline (NS-ip). The bioluminescence of luciferin was monitored in vivo in real time. The peak time and half-life of fluorescence emission were significantly increased in HA-sc-treated mice compared with those in NS-sc- and NS-ip-treated mice; however, significant differences were not observed in peak photon counts. We detected differences in the pharmacokinetics of luciferin in the inner ear, including its sustained release, in the presence of HA. The results indicate the clinical potential of using HA for controlled drug delivery to the cochlea.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0153957

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Society for Neuroscience  

White matter abnormalities in the CNS have been reported recently in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Quantitation of non-Gaussianity for water diffusion by q-space diffusional MRI (QSI) renders biological diffusion barriers such as myelin sheaths
however, the time-consuming nature of this method hinders its clinical application. In the current study, we aimed to refine QSI protocols to enable their clinical application and to visualize myelin signals in a clinical setting. For this purpose, animal studies were first performed to optimize the acquisition protocol of a non-Gaussian QSI metric. The heat map of standardized kurtosis values derived from optimal QSI (myelin map) was then created. Histological validation of the myelin map was performed in myelin-deficient mice and in a nonhuman primate by monitoring its variation during demyelination and remyelination after chemical spinal cord injury. The results demonstrated that it was sensitive enough to depict dysmyelination, demyelination, and remyelination in animal models. Finally, its utility in clinical practice was assessed by a pilot clinical study in a selected group of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The human myelin map could be obtained within 10 min with a 3 T MR scanner. Use of the myelin map was practical for visualizing white matter and it sensitively detected reappearance of myelin signals after demyelination, possibly reflecting remyelination inMSpatients. Our results together suggest that the myelin map, a kurtosis-related heat map obtainable with time-saving QSI, may be a novel and clinically useful means of visualizing myelin in the human CNS.

DOI： 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1770-15.2016

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Hindawi Limited  

Craniofacial skeletal tissues are composed of tooth and bone, together with nerves and blood vessels. This composite material is mainly derived from neural crest cells (NCCs). The neural crest is transient embryonic tissue present during neural tube formation whose cells have high potential for migration and differentiation. Thus, NCCs are promising candidates for craniofacial tissue regeneration; however, the clinical application of NCCs is hindered by their limited accessibility. In contrast, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are easily accessible in adults, have similar potential for self-renewal, and can differentiate into skeletal tissues, including bones and cartilage. Therefore, MSCs may represent good sources of stem cells for clinical use. MSCs are classically identified under adherent culture conditions, leading to contamination with other cell lineages. Previous studies have identified mouse- and human-specific MSC subsets using cell surface markers. Additionally, some studies have shown that a subset of MSCs is closely related to neural crest derivatives and endothelial cells. These MSCs may be promising candidates for regeneration of craniofacial tissues from the perspective of developmental fate. Here, we review the fundamental biology of MSCs in craniofacial research.

DOI： 10.1155/2016/2849879

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その他リンク： http://downloads.hindawi.com/journals/sci/2016/2849879.xml

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.heares.2015.09.018

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

Stem cell therapy offers the potential of rebuilding the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the aganglionic bowel of patients with Hirschsprung's disease. P0-Cre/Floxed-EGFP mice in which neural crest-derived cells express EGFP were used to obtain ENS stem/progenitor cells. ENS stem/progenitor cells were transplanted into the bowel of Ret(-/-) mouse, an animal model of Hirschsprung's disease. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to determine whether grafted cells gave rise to neurons in the recipient bowel. EGFP expressing neural crest-derived cells accounted for 7.01 ± 2.52 % of total cells of gastrointestinal tract. ENS stem/progenitor cells were isolated using flow cytometry and expanded as neurosphere-like bodies (NLBs) in a serum-free culture condition. Some cells in NLBs expressed neural crest markers, p75 and Sox10 and neural stem/progenitor cells markers, Nestin and Musashi1. Multipotency of isolated ENS stem/progenitor cells was determined as they differentiated into neurons, glial cells, and myofibloblasts in culture. When co-cultured with explants of hindgut of Ret(-/-) mice, ENS stem/progenitor cells migrated into the aganglionic bowel and gave rise to neurons. ENS stem/progenitor cells used in this study appear to be clinically relevant donor cells in cell therapy to treat Hirschsprung's disease capable of colonizing the affected bowel and giving rise to neurons.

DOI： 10.1007/s10616-014-9754-8

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その他リンク： http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10616-014-9754-8/fulltext.html

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

UNLABELLED: : Previous studies have demonstrated that neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) promote functional recovery in rodent animal models of spinal cord injury (SCI). Because distinct differences exist in the neuroanatomy and immunological responses between rodents and primates, it is critical to determine the effectiveness and safety of allografted embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived NS/PCs (ESC-NS/PCs) in a nonhuman primate SCI model. In the present study, common marmoset ESC-NS/PCs were grafted into the lesion epicenter 14 days after contusive SCI in adult marmosets (transplantation group). In the control group, phosphate-buffered saline was injected instead of cells. In the presence of a low-dose of tacrolimus, several grafted cells survived without tumorigenicity and differentiated into neurons, astrocytes, or oligodendrocytes. Significant differences were found in the transverse areas of luxol fast blue-positive myelin sheaths, neurofilament-positive axons, corticospinal tract fibers, and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1-positive vessels at the lesion epicenter between the transplantation and control groups. Immunoelectron microscopic examination demonstrated that the grafted ESC-NS/PC-derived oligodendrocytes contributed to the remyelination of demyelinated axons. In addition, some grafted neurons formed synaptic connections with host cells, and some transplanted neurons were myelinated by host cells. Eventually, motor functional recovery significantly improved in the transplantation group compared with the control group. In addition, a mixed lymphocyte reaction assay indicated that ESC-NS/PCs modulated the allogeneic immune rejection. Taken together, our results indicate that allogeneic transplantation of ESC-NS/PCs from a nonhuman primate promoted functional recovery after SCI without tumorigenicity. SIGNIFICANCE: This study demonstrates that allogeneic embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) promoted functional recovery after transplantation into the injured spinal cord in nonhuman primates. ESC-NS/PCs were chosen because ESC-NS/PCs are one of the controls for induced pluripotent stem cell-derived NS/PCs and because ESC derivatives are possible candidates for clinical use. This translational research using an allograft model of a nonhuman primate is critical for clinical application of grafting NS/PCs derived from various allogeneic pluripotent stem cells, especially induced pluripotent stem cells, into injured spinal cord at the subacute phase.

DOI： 10.5966/sctm.2014-0215

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

Mammalian spermatogenesis has been investigated extensively in rodents and a strictly controlled developmental process has been defined at cellular and molecular levels. In comparison, primate spermatogenesis has been far less well characterized. However, important differences between primate and rodent spermatogenesis are emerging so it is not always accurate to extrapolate findings in rodents to primate systems. Here, we performed an extensive immunofluorescence study of spermatogenesis in neonatal, juvenile, and adult testes in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) to determine primate-specific patterns of gene expression that underpin primate germ cell development. Initially we characterized adult spermatogonia into two main classes; mitotically active C-KIT(+)Ki67(+) cells and mitotically quiescent SALL4(+)PLZF(+)LIN28(+)DPPA4(+) cells. We then explored the expression of a set of markers, including PIWIL1/MARWI, VASA, DAZL, CLGN, RanBPM, SYCP1 and HAPRIN, during germ cell differentiation from early spermatocytes through round and elongating spermatids, and a clear program of gene expression changes was determined as development proceeded. We then examined the juvenile marmoset testis. Markers of gonocytes demonstrated two populations; one that migrates to the basal membrane where they form the SALL4(+) or C-KIT(+) spermatogonia, and another that remains in the lumen of the seminiferous tubule. This later population, historically identified as pre-spermatogonia, expressed meiotic and apoptotic markers and were eliminated because they appear to have failed to correctly migrate. Our findings provide the first platform of gene expression dynamics in adult and developing germ cells of the common marmoset. Although we have characterized a limited number of genes, these results will facilitate primate spermatogenesis research and understanding of human reproduction.

DOI： 10.1016/j.ydbio.2015.01.014

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Oxford University Press (OUP)  

The aim of connectomics analysis is to understand whole-brain neural connections. This is accomplished using new biotechnologies. Here, we provide an overview of the recent progress in connectomics analysis. The entire neural network of an organism was revealed for the first time in the nematode. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) have an advantage of their limited number of neurons and their transparency, allowing the neural network to be visualized using light and electron microscopes (EMs). It is practically impossible to adopt the same approach for mammals because of the large number of neural cells and the opacity of the central nervous system. A variety of new technologies are being developed to perform computer-assisted high-throughput image acquisition and analysis to obtain whole-brain maps for higher species, including mammals. Diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging and tractography and three-dimensional imaging with the EM are examples of novel approaches to connectomics. These new technologies will soon be applied not only to Drosophila, C. elegans and rodent research, but also to comprehensive connectomics analysis in a wide range of species including humans and primates. In the near future, results from connectomics analysis will reveal the neural circuitry of the whole brain and enhance our understanding of the human mind and neuropsychiatric diseases.

DOI： 10.1093/jmicro/dfu103

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担当区分：筆頭著者,　責任著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：論文集(書籍)内論文   出版者・発行元：Springer New York  

Immuno-electron microscopy and electron microscopic in situ hybridization are powerful tools to identify the precise subcellular localization of specific proteins and RNAs at the ultramicroscopic level. Here we describe detailed procedures for how to detect the precise location of a specific target labeled with both fluorescence and gold particles. Although they have been developed for the analysis of Drosophila ovarian somatic cells, these techniques are suitable for a wide range of biological applications including human, primate, and rodent analysis.

DOI： 10.1007/978-1-4939-2851-4_12

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition with no established treatment. To better understand the pathology and develop a treatment modality for SCI, an understanding of the physiological changes following SCI at the molecular level is essential. However, studies on SCI have primarily used rodent models, and few studies have examined SCI in non-human primates. In this study, we analyzed the temporal changes in gene expression patterns following SCI in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) using microarray analysis and mRNA deep sequencing. This analysis revealed that, although the sequence of events is comparable between primates and rodents, the inflammatory response following SCI is significantly prolonged and the onset of glial scar formation is temporally delayed in primates compared with rodents. These observations indicate that the optimal time window to treat SCI significantly differs among different species. This study provides the first extensive analysis of gene expression following SCI in non-human primates and will serve as a valuable resource in understanding the pathology of SCI. © 2014 Elsevier Inc.

DOI： 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.05.021

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記述言語：英語  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2014.08.005

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) direct Piwi to repress transposons and maintain genome integrity in Drosophila ovarian somatic cells. piRNA maturation and association with Piwi occur at perinuclear Yb bodies, the centers of piRNA biogenesis. Here, we show that piRNA intermediates arising from the piRNA cluster flamenco (flam) localize to perinuclear foci adjacent to Yb bodies, termed Flam bodies. RNAi-based screening of piRNA factors revealed that Flam body formation depends on Yb, the core component of Yb bodies, while Piwi and another Yb body component, Armitage, are dispensable for formation. Abolishing the RNA-binding activity of Yb disrupts both Flam bodies and Yb bodies. Yb directly binds flam, but not transcripts from neighboring protein-coding genes. Thus, Yb integrates piRNA intermediates and piRNA processing factors selectively into Flam bodies and Yb bodies, respectively. We suggest that Yb is a key upstream factor in the cytoplasmic phase of the piRNA pathway in ovarian somatic cells.

DOI： 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.05.043

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.03.007

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：FEDERATION AMER SOC EXP BIOL  

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記述言語：英語  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2013.11.012

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1186/1756-6606-7-14

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

BACKGROUND: Cervical compressive myelopathy (CCM) is caused by chronic spinal cord compression due to spondylosis, a degenerative disc disease, and ossification of the ligaments. Tip-toe walking Yoshimura (twy) mice are reported to be an ideal animal model for CCM-related neuronal dysfunction, because they develop spontaneous spinal cord compression without any artificial manipulation. Previous histological studies showed that neurons are lost due to apoptosis in CCM, but the mechanism underlying this neurodegeneration was not fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the pathophysiology of CCM by evaluating the global gene expression of the compressed spinal cord and comparing the transcriptome analysis with the physical and histological findings in twy mice. METHODS: Twenty-week-old twy mice were divided into two groups according to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings: a severe compression (S) group and a mild compression (M) group. The transcriptome was analyzed by microarray and RT-PCR. The cellular pathophysiology was examined by immunohistological analysis and immuno-electron microscopy. Motor function was assessed by Rotarod treadmill latency and stride-length tests. RESULTS: Severe cervical calcification caused spinal canal stenosis and low functional capacity in twy mice. The microarray analysis revealed 215 genes that showed significantly different expression levels between the S and the M groups. Pathway analysis revealed that genes expressed at higher levels in the S group were enriched for terms related to the regulation of inflammation in the compressed spinal cord. M1 macrophage-dominant inflammation was present in the S group, and cysteine-rich protein 61 (Cyr61), an inducer of M1 macrophages, was markedly upregulated in these spinal cords. Furthermore, C1q, which initiates the classical complement cascade, was more upregulated in the S group than in the M group. The confocal and electron microscopy observations indicated that classically activated microglia/macrophages had migrated to the compressed spinal cord and eliminated synaptic terminals. CONCLUSIONS: We revealed the detailed pathophysiology of the inflammatory response in an animal model of chronic spinal cord compression. Our findings suggest that complement-mediated synapse elimination is a central mechanism underlying the neurodegeneration in CCM.

DOI： 10.1186/1742-2094-11-40

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD  

Because of its high oxygen demands, neural tissue is predisposed to oxidative stress. Here, our aim was to clarify the cellular localization of antioxidant enzymes in the trigeminal ganglion. We found that the transcriptional factor Sox10 is localized exclusively in satellite glial cells (SGCs) in the adult trigeminal ganglion. The use of transgenic mice that express the fluorescent protein Venus under the Sox10 promoter enabled us to distinguish between neurons and SGCs. Although both superoxide dismutases 1 and 2 were present in the neurons, only superoxide dismutase 1 was identified in SGCs. The enzymes relevant to hydrogen peroxide degradation displayed differential cellular localization, such that neurons were endowed with glutathione peroxidase 1 and thioredoxin 2, and catalase and thioredoxin 2 were present in SGCs. Our immunohistochemical finding showed that only SGCs were labeled by the oxidative damage marker 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, which indicates that the antioxidant systems of SGCs were less potent. The transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily member 1 (TRPV1), the capsaicin receptor, is implicated in inflammatory hyperalgesia, and we demonstrated that topical capsaicin application causes short-lasting mechanical hyperalgesia in the face. Our cell-based assay revealed that TRPV1 agonist stimulation in the presence of TRPV1 overexpression caused reactive oxygen species-mediated caspase-3 activation. Moreover, capsaicin induced the cellular demise of primary TRPV1-positive trigeminal ganglion neurons in a dose-dependent manner, and this effect was inhibited by a free radical scavenger and a pancaspase inhibitor. This study delineates the localization of antioxidative stress-related enzymes in the trigeminal ganglion and reveals the importance of the pivotal role of reactive oxygen species in the TRPV1-mediated caspase-dependent cell death of trigeminal ganglion neurons. Therapeutic measures for antioxidative stress should be taken to prevent damage to trigeminal primary sensory neurons in inflammatory pain disorders. (C) 2013 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.06.010

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1038/modpathol.2013.54

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その他リンク： http://www.nature.com/articles/modpathol201354

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

BACKGROUND: A long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1_2 (NEAT1_2), constitutes nuclear bodies known as "paraspeckles". Mutations of RNA binding proteins, including TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) and fused in sarcoma/translocated in liposarcoma (FUS/TLS), have been described in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a devastating motor neuron disease, which progresses rapidly to a total loss of upper and lower motor neurons, with consciousness sustained. The aim of this study was to clarify the interaction of paraspeckles with ALS-associated RNA-binding proteins, and to identify increased occurrence of paraspeckles in the nucleus of ALS spinal motor neurons. RESULTS: In situ hybridization (ISH) and ultraviolet cross-linking and immunoprecipitation were carried out to investigate interactions of NEAT1_2 lncRNA with ALS-associated RNA-binding proteins, and to test if paraspeckles form in ALS spinal motor neurons. As the results, TDP-43 and FUS/TLS were enriched in paraspeckles and bound to NEAT1_2 lncRNA directly. The paraspeckles were localized apart from the Cajal bodies, which were also known to be related to RNA metabolism. Analyses of 633 human spinal motor neurons in six ALS cases showed NEAT1_2 lncRNA was upregulated during the early stage of ALS pathogenesis. In addition, localization of NEAT1_2 lncRNA was identified in detail by electron microscopic analysis combined with ISH for NEAT1_2 lncRNA. The observation indicating specific assembly of NEAT1_2 lncRNA around the interchromatin granule-associated zone in the nucleus of ALS spinal motor neurons verified characteristic paraspeckle formation. CONCLUSIONS: NEAT1_2 lncRNA may act as a scaffold of RNAs and RNA binding proteins in the nuclei of ALS motor neurons, thereby modulating the functions of ALS-associated RNA-binding proteins during the early phase of ALS. These findings provide the first evidence of a direct association between paraspeckle formation and a neurodegenerative disease, and may shed light on the development of novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of ALS.

DOI： 10.1186/1756-6606-6-31

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：SPRINGER-VERLAG ITALIA SRL  

DOI： 10.1186/1129-2377-14-S1-P83

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0053540

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1186/1756-6606-6-31

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：JAPANESE PHARMACOLOGICAL SOC  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0052904

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

OBJECTIVE: Systemic steroid injections are used to treat idiopathic sudden-onset sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) and some inner ear disorders. Recent studies show that transtympanic (TT) steroid injections are effective for treating ISSHL. As in vivo monitoring of drug delivery dynamics for inner ear is lacking, its time course and dispersion of drugs is unknown. Here, we used a new in vivo imaging system to monitor drug delivery in live mice and to compare drug concentrations over time after TT and systemic injections. METHODS: Luciferin delivered into the inner ears of GFAP-Luc transgenic mice reacted with luciferase in GFAP-expressing cells in the cochlear spiral ganglion, resulting in photon bioluminescence. We used the Xenogen IVIS® imaging system to measure how long photons continued to be emitted in the inner ear after TT or systemic injections of luciferin, and then compared the associated drug dynamics. RESULTS: The response to TT and IP injections differed significantly. Photons were detected five minutes after TT injection, peaking at ~20 minutes. By contrast, photons were first detected 30 minutes after i.p. injection. TT and i.p. drug delivery time differed considerably. With TT injections, photons were detected earlier than with IP injections. Photon bioluminescence also disappeared sooner. Delivery time varied with TT injections. CONCLUSIONS: We speculate that the drug might enter the Eustachian tube from the middle ear. We conclude that inner-ear drug concentration can be maintained longer if the two injection routes are combined. As the size of luciferin differs from that of therapeutics like dexamethasone, combining drugs with luciferin may advance our understanding of in vivo drug delivery dynamics in the inner ear.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0048480

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0047716

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)  

DOI： 10.1097/prs.0b013e318262f36e

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

Musashi (Msi) is an evolutionarily conserved gene family of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that is preferentially expressed in the nervous system. The first member of the Msi family was identified in Drosophila. Drosophila Msi plays an important role in regulating asymmetric cell division of the sensory organ precursor cells. The mammalian orthologs, including human and mouse Musashi1 (Msi1), are neural RBPs that are strongly expressed in fetal and adult neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs). Mammalian Msi1 contributes to self renewal of NS/PCs through translational regulation of several target mRNAs. In this study, the zebrafish Msi ortholog zMsi1 was identified and characterized. The normal spatial and temporal expression profiles for both protein and mRNA were determined. A series of splice variants were detected. Overall, zMsi1 was strongly expressed in neural tissue in early stages of development and exhibited similarity to mammalian Msi1 expression patterns. To reveal the in vivo function of zMsi1, morpholinos against Msi1 were introduced into one-cell stage zebrafish embryos. Knock down of zmsi1 frequently resulted in aberrant formation of the Central Nervous System (CNS). These results suggest that Msi1 plays roles in CNS development in vertebrates. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "RNA-Binding Proteins".

DOI： 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.01.068

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本小児外科学会  

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その他リンク： https://search.jamas.or.jp/index.php?module=Default&action=Link&pub_year=2012&ichushi_jid=J01113&link_issn=&doc_id=20120426230153&doc_link_id=10.11164%2Fjjsps.48.3_472_1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdoi.org%2F10.11164%2Fjjsps.48.3_472_1&type=J-STAGE&icon=https%3A%2F%2Fjk04.jamas.or.jp%2Ficon%2F00007_3.gif

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

Previous reports of functional recovery from spinal cord injury (SCI) in rodents and monkeys after the delayed transplantation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) have raised hopes that stem cell therapy could be used to treat SCI in humans. More research is needed, however, to understand the mechanism of functional recovery. Oligodendrocytes derived from grafted NS/PCs remyelinate spared axons in the injured spinal cord. Here, we studied the extent of this remyelination's contribution to functional recovery following contusive SCI in mice. To isolate the effect of remyelination from other possible regenerative benefits of the grafted cells, NS/PCs obtained from myelin-deficient shiverer mutant mice (shi-NS/PCs) were used in this work alongside wild-type NS/PCs (wt-NS/PCs). shi-NS/PCs behaved like wt-NS/PCs in vitro and in vivo, with the exception of their myelinating potential. shi-NS/PC-derived oligodendrocytes did not express myelin basic protein in vitro and formed much thinner myelin sheaths in vivo compared with wt-NS/PC-derived oligodendrocytes. The transplantation of shi-NS/PCs promoted some locomotor and electrophysiological functional recovery but significantly less than that afforded by wt-NS/PCs. These findings establish the biological importance of remyelination by graft-derived cells for functional recovery after the transplantation of NS/PCs into the injured spinal cord.

DOI： 10.1002/stem.767

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：EMBO  

DOI： 10.1002/emmm.201100179

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その他リンク： https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full-xml/10.1002/emmm.201100179

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：American Society for Clinical Investigation  

In chronic kidney disease, fibroblast dysfunction causes renal fibrosis and renal anemia. Renal fibrosis is mediated by the accumulation of myofibroblasts, whereas renal anemia is mediated by the reduced production of fibroblast-derived erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates erythropoiesis. Despite their importance in chronic kidney disease, the origin and regulatory mechanism of fibroblasts remain unclear. Here, we have demonstrated that the majority of erythropoietin-producing fibroblasts in the healthy kidney originate from myelin protein zero-Cre (P0-Cre) lineage-labeled extrarenal cells, which enter the embryonic kidney at E13.5. In the diseased kidney, P0-Cre lineage-labeled fibroblasts, but not fibroblasts derived from injured tubular epithelial cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, transdifferentiated into myofibroblasts and predominantly contributed to fibrosis, with concomitant loss of erythropoietin production. We further demonstrated that attenuated erythropoietin production in transdifferentiated myofibroblasts was restored by the administration of neuroprotective agents, such as dexamethasone and neurotrophins. Moreover, the in vivo administration of tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, restored attenuated erythropoietin production as well as fibrosis in a mouse model of kidney fibrosis. These findings reveal the pathophysiological roles of P0-Cre lineage-labeled fibroblasts in the kidney and clarify the link between renal fibrosis and renal anemia.

DOI： 10.1172/jci57301

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本小児外科学会  

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その他リンク： https://search.jamas.or.jp/index.php?module=Default&action=Link&pub_year=2011&ichushi_jid=J01113&link_issn=&doc_id=20111021100136&doc_link_id=%2Fes5shoge%2F2011%2Fs04706%2F067%2F0984-0984%26dl%3D0&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalonline.jp%2Fjamas.php%3FGoodsID%3D%2Fes5shoge%2F2011%2Fs04706%2F067%2F0984-0984%26dl%3D0&type=MedicalOnline&icon=https%3A%2F%2Fjk04.jamas.or.jp%2Ficon%2F00004_2.gif

記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)歯科基礎医学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本小児外科学会  

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その他リンク： https://search.jamas.or.jp/index.php?module=Default&action=Link&pub_year=2011&ichushi_jid=J01113&link_issn=&doc_id=20110719180219&doc_link_id=%2Fes5shoge%2F2011%2Fs04704%2F056%2F0618-0618%26dl%3D0&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalonline.jp%2Fjamas.php%3FGoodsID%3D%2Fes5shoge%2F2011%2Fs04704%2F056%2F0618-0618%26dl%3D0&type=MedicalOnline&icon=https%3A%2F%2Fjk04.jamas.or.jp%2Ficon%2F00004_2.gif

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

The development of the inner ear is an orchestrated process of morphogenesis with spatiotemporally controlled generations of individual cell types. Recent studies have revealed that the Sox gene family, a family of evolutionarily conserved HMG-type transcriptional factors, is differentially expressed in each cell type of the mammalian inner ear and plays critical roles in cell-fate determination during development. In this study, we examined the expression pattern of Sox21 in the developing and adult murine cochlea. Sox21 was expressed throughout the sensory epithelium in the early otocyst stage but became restricted to supporting cells during adulthood. Interestingly, the expression in adults was restricted to the inner phalangeal, inner border, and Deiters' cells: all of these cells are in direct contact with hair cells. Evaluations of the auditory brainstem-response revealed that Sox21(-/-) mice suffered mild hearing impairments, with an increase in hair cells that miss their appropriate planar cell polarity. Taken together with the previously reported critical roles of SoxB1 families in the morphogenesis of inner ear sensory and neuronal cells, our results suggest that Sox21, a counteracting partner of the SoxB1 family, controls fine-tuned cell fate decisions. Also, the characteristic expression pattern may be useful for labelling a particular subset of supporting cells.

DOI： 10.1007/s11064-011-0416-3

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その他リンク： http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11064-011-0416-3/fulltext.html

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

Multipotent somatic stem cells have been identified in various adult tissues. However, the stem/progenitor cells of the peripheral nerves have been isolated only from fetal tissues. Here, we isolated Schwann-cell precursors/immature Schwann cells from the injured peripheral nerves of adult mice using a floating culture technique that we call "Schwann-spheres." The Schwann-spheres were derived from de-differentiated mature Schwann cells harvested 24 hours to 6 weeks after peripheral nerve injury. They had extensive self-renewal and differentiation capabilities. They strongly expressed the immature-Schwann-cell marker p75, and differentiated only into the Schwann-cell lineage. The spheres showed enhanced myelin formation and neurite growth compared to mature Schwann cells in vitro. Mature Schwann cells have been considered a promising candidate for cell-transplantation therapies to repair the damaged nervous system, whereas these "Schwann-spheres" would provide a more potential autologous cell source for such transplantation.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0021497

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

After spinal cord injury (SCI), various cell types are recruited to the lesion site, including Schwann cells, which originate in the neural crest and normally myelinate axons in the peripheral nervous system. Here, we investigated the differentiation states, migration patterns, and roles of neural crest derivatives following SCI, using two transgenic mouse lines carrying neural crest-specific reporters, P0-Cre/Floxed-EGFP and Wnt1-Cre/Floxed-EGFP. In these mice, EGFP is expressed only in the neural crest cell lineage. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that most of the EGFP(+) cells that infiltrated the lesion site after SCI were Schwann cells. Seven days after SCI, the P0-positive, mature Schwann cells residing at the nerve roots had dedifferentiated into P0(-)/p75(+) immature Schwann cells, which proliferated and began migrating into the lesion site. The dedifferentiation of the Schwann cells was corroborated by their expression of phosphorylated c-Jun, which promotes dedifferentiation and inhibits the expression of myelin-associated genes in the peripheral nerves. Thereafter, the number of EGFP(+)/p75(+) immature Schwann cells decreased and that of EGFP(+)/P0(+) mature cells increased gradually, indicating that the cells redifferentiated into mature Schwann cells within the lesion site. This study draws on the advantages offered by transgenic mouse lines bearing a genetic cell-lineage marker and extends previous work by describing the origins and behavior of the neural crest-derived cells that contribute to endogenous repair after SCI. This process, involving Schwann cell plasticity, is a novel repair mechanism for the lesioned mammalian spinal cord.

DOI： 10.1002/glia.21150

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本移植学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本脊椎脊髄病学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2011.07.980

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Springer Science and Business Media LLC  

DOI： 10.1186/1756-6606-4-34

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2011.07.215

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2011.07.248

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：国立病院総合医学会  

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：日本神経化学会  

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本神経化学会  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：SAGE Publications  

DOI： 10.1369/jhc.2010.955609

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その他リンク： http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full-xml/10.1369/jhc.2010.955609

記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本周産期・新生児医学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本小児外科学会  

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その他リンク： https://search.jamas.or.jp/index.php?module=Default&action=Link&pub_year=2010&ichushi_jid=J01113&link_issn=&doc_id=20100602240169&doc_link_id=%2Fes5shoge%2F2010%2Fs04603%2F033%2F0507-0507%26dl%3D0&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalonline.jp%2Fjamas.php%3FGoodsID%3D%2Fes5shoge%2F2010%2Fs04603%2F033%2F0507-0507%26dl%3D0&type=MedicalOnline&icon=https%3A%2F%2Fjk04.jamas.or.jp%2Ficon%2F00004_2.gif

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

Hearing impairment can be the cause of serious socio-economic disadvantages. Recent studies have shown inflammatory responses in the inner ear co-occur with various damaging conditions including noise-induced hearing loss. We reported pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) was induced in the cochlea 6h after noise exposure, but the pathophysiological implications of this are still obscure. To address this issue, we investigated the effects of IL-6 inhibition using the anti-IL-6 receptor antibody (MR16-1). Noise-exposed mice were treated with MR16-1 and evaluated. Improved hearing at 4kHz as measured by auditory brainstem response (ABR) was noted in noise-exposed mice treated with MR16-1. Histological analysis revealed the decrease in spiral ganglion neurons was ameliorated in the MR16-1-treated group, while no significant change was observed in the organ of Corti. Immunohistochemistry for Iba1 and CD45 demonstrated a remarkable reduction of activated cochlear macrophages in spiral ganglions compared to the control group when treated with MR16-1. Thus, MR16-1 had protective effects both functionally and pathologically for the noise-damaged cochlea primarily due to suppression of neuronal loss and presumably through alleviation of inflammatory responses. Anti-inflammatory cytokine therapy including IL-6 blockade would be a feasible novel therapeutic strategy for acute sensory neural hearing loss.

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2009.12.008

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本脊椎脊髄病学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：American Society for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (ASBMB)  

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.m109.046284

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2010.07.1591

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2010.07.2288

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2010.07.415

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：UPV/EHU Press  

The neural crest (NC) is a group of cells located in the neural folds at the boundary between the neural and epidermal ectoderm. NC cells differentiate into a vast range of cells,including neural cells, smooth muscle cells, bone and cartilage cells of the maxillofacial region, and odontoblasts. The molecular mechanisms underlying NC induction during early development remain poorly understood. We previously established a defined serum-free culture condition for mouse embryonic stem (mES) cells without feeders. Here, using this defined condition, we have developed a protocol to promote mES cell differentiation into NC cells in an adherent monolayer culture. We found that adding bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-4 together with fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 shifts mES cell differentiation into the NC lineage. Furthermore, we have established a cell line designated as P0-6 that is derived from the blastocysts of P0-Cre/Floxed-EGFP mice expressing EGFP in an NC-lineage-specific manner. P0-6 cells cultured using this protocol expressed EGFP. This protocol could be used to help clarify the mechanisms by which cells differentiate into the NC lineage and to assist the development of applications for clinical therapy.

DOI： 10.1387/ijdb.103173ya

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Public Library of Science (PLoS)  

Transplantation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) following the sub-acute phase of spinal cord injury (SCI) has been shown to promote functional recovery in rodent models. However, the types of cells most effective for treating SCI have not been clarified. Taking advantage of our recently established neurosphere-based culture system of ES cell-derived NS/PCs, in which primary neurospheres (PNS) and passaged secondary neurospheres (SNS) exhibit neurogenic and gliogenic potentials, respectively, here we examined the distinct effects of transplanting neurogenic and gliogenic NS/PCs on the functional recovery of a mouse model of SCI. ES cell-derived PNS and SNS transplanted 9 days after contusive injury at the Th10 level exhibited neurogenic and gliogenic differentiation tendencies, respectively, similar to those seen in vitro. Interestingly, transplantation of the gliogenic SNS, but not the neurogenic PNS, promoted axonal growth, remyelination, and angiogenesis, and resulted in significant locomotor functional recovery after SCI. These findings suggest that gliogenic NS/PCs are effective for promoting the recovery from SCI, and provide essential insight into the mechanisms through which cellular transplantation leads to functional improvement after SCI.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0007706

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：国立病院総合医学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

The isolation of neural stem cells (NSCs) from the brain has been hampered by the lack of valid cell surface markers and the requirement for long-term in vitro cultivation that may lead to phenotype deterioration. However, few suitable specific cell surface antigens are available on NSCs that could be used for their prospective isolation. The present study demonstrated that the expression of complex type asparagine-linked oligosaccharide (N-glycans) was detected on brain cells dissociated from embryonic and adult brain using Phaseolus vulgaris erythroagglutinating lectin (E-PHA) which binds to biantennary complex type N-glycans, and demonstrated that E-PHA bound preferentially to purified NSCs, but not to neurons, microglia, or oligodendrocyte precursor cells. The labeling of dissociated mouse embryonic brain cells or adult brain cells with E-PHA enabled the enrichment of NSCs by 25-fold or 9-fold of the number of neurosphere-forming cells in comparison to that of unsorted cells, respectively. Furthermore, a lectin blot analysis revealed the presence of several glycoproteins which were recognized by E-PHA in the membrane fraction of the proliferating NSCs, but not in the differentiated cells. These results indicate that complex type N-glycans is a valuable cell surface marker for living mouse NSCs from both the embryonic and adult brain.

DOI： 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06256.x

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

DOI： 10.1002/jcb.22213

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本移植学会  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.exer.2008.06.019

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

We applied diffusion tensor tractography (DTT), a recently developed MRI technique that reveals the microstructures of tissues based on its ability to monitor the random movements of water molecules, to the visualization of peripheral nerves after injury. The rat sciatic nerve was subjected to contusive injury, and the data obtained from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) were used to determine the tracks of nerve fibers (DTT). The DTT images obtained using the fractional anisotropy (FA) threshold value of 0.4 clearly revealed the recovery process of the contused nerves. Immediately after the injury, fiber tracking from the designated proximal site could not be continued beyond the lesion epicenter, but the intensity improved thereafter, returning to its pre-injury level by 3 weeks later. We compared the FA value, a parameter computed from the DTT data, with the results of histological and functional examinations of the injured nerves, during recovery. The FA values of the peripheral nerves were more strongly correlated with axon-related (axon density and diameter) than with myelin-related (myelin density and thickness) parameters, supporting the theories that axonal membranes play a major role in anisotropic water diffusion and that myelination can modulate the degree of anisotropy. Moreover, restoration of the FA value at the lesion epicenter was strongly correlated with parameters of motor and sensory functional recovery. These correlations of the FA values with both the histological and functional changes demonstrate the potential usefulness of DTT for evaluating clinical events associated with Wallerian degeneration and the regeneration of peripheral nerves.

DOI： 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2008.09.022

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2009.09.409

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：SPRINGER TOKYO  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本サイトメトリー学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本移植学会  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1016/j.biocel.2008.03.009

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

DOI： 10.11164/jjsps.44.3_330_1

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Wiley  

DOI： 10.1002/jnr.21372

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本炎症・再生医学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本炎症・再生医学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本サイトメトリー学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本移植学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.2353/ajpath.2006.050469

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

Musashi is an evolutionarily conserved family of RNA-binding proteins that is preferentially expressed in the nervous system. The first member of the Musashi family was identified in Drosophila. This protein plays an essential role in regulating the asymmetric cell division of ectodermal precursor cells known as sensory organ precursor cells through the translational regulation of target mRNA. In the CNS of Drosophila larvae, however, Musashi is expressed in proliferating neuroblasts and likely has a different function. Its probable mammalian homologue, Musashi-1, is a neural RNA-binding protein that is strongly expressed in fetal and adult neural stem cells (NSCs). Mammalian Musashi-1 augments Notch signaling through the translational repression of its target mRNA, m-Numb, thereby contributing to the self-renewal of NSCs. In addition to its functions in NSCs, the role of mammalian Musashi-1 protein in epithelial stem cells, including intestinal and mammary gland stem cells, is attracting increasing interest. © 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.yexcr.2005.02.021

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記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

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掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

DOI： 10.1006/bbrc.2000.2614

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(株)ニュー・サイエンス社  

脳神経回路網は、神経細胞同士がシナプスによってつながり、情報を交換することによって形成されている。シナプスの詳細な形態については、電子顕微鏡(電顕)を用いて初めて観察が可能となる。これまでは脳内の神経回路網の研究はMRIやトレーサーなどを用いた解析が主流であったが、最近の電顕解析技術の飛躍的な進歩によって、神経回路網の解析を電顕レベルの解像度で行うことが現実のものとなりつつある。ここではシナプスレベルの解像度で行われている神経回路網を網羅的に解析するミクロ・コネクトミクス解析の現状を概説する。(著者抄録)

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(株)南江堂  

DOI： 10.15106/j_seikei69_434

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(株)南江堂  

DOI： 10.15106/j_seikei69_434

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(株)東京医学社  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本生化学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：WILEY-BLACKWELL  

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：CELL PRESS  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本脊椎脊髄病学会  

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP  

DOI： 10.1038/nature12418

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(株)メディカルレビュー社  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：WILEY-BLACKWELL  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：JAPANESE PHARMACOLOGICAL SOC  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：JAPANESE PHARMACOLOGICAL SOC  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：WILEY-BLACKWELL  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本整形外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本小児外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本腎臓学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

DOI： 10.11164/jjsps.47.6_984_2

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

DOI： 10.11164/jjsps.47.4_777_2

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

DOI： 10.11164/jjsps.47.6_980_3

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本周産期・新生児医学会  

神経堤由来細胞が蛍光蛋白質(EGFP)でラベル化された遺伝子改変マウスをドナーに用い、ヒルシュスプリング病に代表される腸管神経系疾患に対する新しい治療として、神経堤幹細胞移植による腸管神経の再生治療の可能性を目的にマウスを用いた基礎的実験を行った。ドナー腸管より分離したEGFP陽性細胞は特定条件下で増殖しsphereを形成する自己増殖能を示した。得られたsphereは神経、グリア、平滑筋の各種細胞への多分化能を有したことから、神経堤細胞を含んでいたことが示された。野生型マウス腸管およびRet-KOマウスの胎子腸管に移植したsphereを蛍光実体顕微鏡下に経時的に観察したところ、移植直後がレシピエント腸管の断端に球形のsphereが接着しているだけであるが、24時間以内にレシピエント腸管内にEGFP陽性のドナー細胞がsphereからレシピエント腸管内に向かって移動していくのが観察された。移植後4〜5日で組織を固定し免疫染色を行った。移植されたドナー細胞を抗GFP抗体で標識し、神経への分化を示した細胞を神経マーカーである抗GP9.5抗体で標識した。レシピエント腸管内にはsphereから入り込んでくるGFP陽性細胞が網目状のネットワークを構築している構造を認めた。大部分の神経マーカーであるPGP9.5にも陽性を示し、ドナー細胞がレシピエント腸管内に生着し、神経に分化したことが示唆された。

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：一般社団法人日本外科学会  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

DOI： 10.1016/j.neures.2010.07.2142

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：WILEY-BLACKWELL PUBLISHING, INC  

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記述言語：日本語  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：WILEY-BLACKWELL PUBLISHING, INC  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

DOI： 10.11164/jjsps.45.3_430_2

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

DOI： 10.11164/jjsps.45.5_883_5

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：特定非営利活動法人 日本小児外科学会  

DOI： 10.11164/jjsps.45.5_884_1

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：SPRINGER TOKYO  

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記述言語：日本語  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本脊椎脊髄病学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（国際会議）   出版者・発行元：ELSEVIER IRELAND LTD  

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記述言語：日本語  

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