Mutations frequently reoccur in the human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). However, it is unclear whether recurrent mtDNA nodal mutations (RNMs), that is, recurrent mutations in stems of unrelated phylogenetic nodes, are functional and hence selectively constrained. To answer this question, we performed comprehensive parsimony and maximum likelihood analyses of 9,868 publicly available whole human mtDNAs revealing 1,606 single nodal mutations (SNMs) and 679 RNMs. We then evaluated the potential functionality of synonymous, nonsynonymous and RNA SNMs and RNMs. For synonymous mutations, we have implemented the Codon Adaptation Index. For nonsynonymous mutations, we assessed evolutionary conservation, and employed previously described pathogenicity score assessment tools. For RNA genes’ mutations, we designed a bioinformatic tool which compiled evolutionary conservation and potential effect on RNA structure. While comparing the functionality scores of nonsynonymous and RNA SNMs and RNMs with those of disease-causing mtDNA mutations, we found significant difference (P < 0.001). However, 24 RNMs and 67 SNMs had comparable values with disease-causing mutations reflecting their potential function thus being the best candidates to participate in adaptive events of unrelated lineages. Strikingly, some functional RNMs occurred in unrelated mtDNA lineages that independently altered susceptibility to the same diseases, thus suggesting common functionality. To our knowledge, this is the most comprehensive analysis of selective signatures in the mtDNA not only within proteins but also within RNA genes. For the first time, we discover virtually all positively selected RNMs in our phylogeny while emphasizing their dual role in past evolutionary events and in disease today.
Growth hormone (GH) and IGF-I have been implicated in the pathogenesis of type I diabetic (DM) nephropathy. We investigated renal GH receptor (GHR) and IGF-type 1 receptor (IGF1R) signaling in an animal model of type I DM. Kidney tissue was examined for GHR and IGF1R key signaling molecules. GHR levels were unchanged and IGF-I mRNA levels were decreased in the diabetic group (D). Basal and GH stimulated phosphorylated (p-) JAK2 and STAT5 levels were similar in controls (C) and D. The levels of p-IGF1R were similar in the two groups at baseline, while pAkt, pGSK3, p-mTOR, p-rpS6, p-erk1/2 (Mapk), and pSTAT-3 were increased in D. Following IGF-I administration p-Akt, p-rpS6, p-Mapk, and p-GSK levels increased more pronouncedly in D versus C. In conclusion, the lack of JAK2-STAT5 activation and the decrease in kidney IGF-I mRNA levels in D argue against a role for the GH activated JAK2-STAT5 pathway in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. On the other hand while IGF1R phosphorylation was unchanged, Akt/mTOR and MAPK signaling were hyperactivate in DM, suggesting their involvement. The increase in baseline activated Akt, mTOR, rpS6, and MAPK cannot be explained by activation of the IGF1R, but may be triggered by other growth factors and nutrients.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
hi@scite.ai
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.