Molecular dissection of cone photoreceptor‐enriched genes encoding transmembrane and secretory proteins. Issue 1 (27th September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Papal, Samantha; Monti, Christopher E.; Tennison, Mackenzie E.; Swaroop, Anand
• Other Names: Mohan Royce guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of neuroscience research. Volume 97:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 16
• Page End: 28
• Publication Date: 2018-09-27
• Subjects: cell communication -- gene expression -- retina -- signaling pathway -- transcriptome; Neurobiology -- Periodicals; 612
• DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24329
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-4012

Abstract

Abstract: Cone photoreceptors mediate color perception and daylight vision through intricate synaptic circuitry. In most mammalian retina, cones are greatly outnumbered by rods and exhibit inter‐dependence for functional maintenance and survival. Currently, we have limited understanding of cone‐specific molecular components that mediate response to extrinsic signaling factors or are involved in communication with rods and other retinal cells. To fulfill this gap, we compared the recently‐published transcriptomes of developing S‐cone‐like photoreceptors from the Nrl −/− mouse retina with those of rods and identified candidate genes responsible for cone cell functions and communication. We generated an in silico expression profile of 823 genes that encode candidate transmembrane and secretory proteins and are up‐regulated in Nrl −/− cone photoreceptors compared to wild type cones. In situ hybridization analysis validated high expression of seven of the selected candidate genes in the Nrl −/− retina. To examine their relevance to cone function, we performed in vivo knockdown of Epha10 in the Nrl −/− retina and demonstrated aberrant morphology and mislocalization of the photoreceptor cell bodies. Thus, the receptor tyrosine kinase Ephrin type‐A receptor 10 appears to influence cone morphogenesis. Our studies reveal novel cone‐enriched genes involved in interaction of cones with other retinal cell types and provide a framework for examining molecular pathways associated with intercellular communication. Abstract : Inter‐cellular interactions are critical for morphogenesis and homeostasis. Papal et al. mined transcriptome data to identify cone‐enriched genes that encode transmembrane and secretory proteins. Knockdown of Epha10 resulted in aberrant cone phenotype and validated our approach. These studies provide the framework for dissecting molecular components underlying cone function and survival.