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Siau JW, Siddiqui AA, Lau SY, Kannan S, Peter S, Zeng Y, Verma C, Droge P, Ghadessy JF. Expanding the DNA editing toolbox: Novel lambda integrase variants targeting microalgal and human genome sequences. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292479. [PMID: 38349923 PMCID: PMC10863862 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinase enzymes are extremely efficient at integrating very large DNA fragments into target genomes. However, intrinsic sequence specificities curtail their use to DNA sequences with sufficient homology to endogenous target motifs. Extensive engineering is therefore required to broaden applicability and robustness. Here, we describe the directed evolution of novel lambda integrase variants capable of editing exogenous target sequences identified in the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum and the algae Nannochloropsis oceanica. These microorganisms hold great promise as conduits for green biomanufacturing and carbon sequestration. The evolved enzyme variants show >1000-fold switch in specificity towards the non-natural target sites when assayed in vitro. A single-copy target motif in the human genome with homology to the Nannochloropsis oceanica site can also be efficiently targeted using an engineered integrase, both in vitro and in human cells. The developed integrase variants represent useful additions to the DNA editing toolbox, with particular application for targeted genomic insertion of large DNA cargos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wei Siau
- Protein and Peptide Engineering Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Asim Azhar Siddiqui
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sze Yi Lau
- Protein and Peptide Engineering Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Sabrina Peter
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yingying Zeng
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chandra Verma
- Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Peter Droge
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- LambdaGen Pte. Ltd., Singapore, Singapore
| | - John F. Ghadessy
- Protein and Peptide Engineering Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
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2
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Zhang C, Chang F, Miao H, Fu Y, Tong X, Feng Y, Zheng W, Ma X. Construction and application of a multifunctional CHO cell platform utilizing Cre/ lox and Dre/ rox site-specific recombination systems. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1320841. [PMID: 38173869 PMCID: PMC10761530 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1320841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
During the development of traditional Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines, target genes randomly integrate into the genome upon entering the nucleus, resulting in unpredictable productivity of cell clones. The characterization and screening of high-yielding cell lines is a time-consuming and expensive process. Site-specific integration is recognized as an effective approach for overcoming random integration and improving production stability. We have designed a multifunctional expression cassette, called CDbox, which can be manipulated by the site-specific recombination systems Cre/lox and Dre/rox. The CDbox expression cassette was inserted at the Hipp11(H11) locus hotspot in the CHO-K1 genome using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and a compliant CHO-CDbox cell platform was screened and obtained. The CHO-CDbox cell platform was transformed into a pool of EGFP-expressing cells using Cre/lox recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) in only 2 weeks, and this expression remained stable for at least 75 generations without the need for drug stress. Subsequently, we used the Dre/rox system to directly eliminate the EGFP gene. In addition, two practical applications of the CHO-CDbox cell platform were presented. The first was the quick construction of the Pembrolizumab antibody stable expression strain, while the second was a protocol for the integration of surface-displayed and secreted antibodies on CHO cells. The previous research on site-specific integration of CHO cells has always focused on the single functionality of insertion of target genes. This newly developed CHO cell platform is expected to offer expanded applicability for protein production and gene function studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunhui Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xikui Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Feng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenyun Zheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xingyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
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3
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Efficient targeted transgenesis of large donor DNA into multiple mouse genetic backgrounds using bacteriophage Bxb1 integrase. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5424. [PMID: 35361849 PMCID: PMC8971409 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09445-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of mouse models of human disease and synthetic biology research by targeted transgenesis of large DNA constructs represent a significant genetic engineering hurdle. We developed an efficient, precise, single-copy integration of large transgenes directly into zygotes using multiple mouse genetic backgrounds. We used in vivo Bxb1 mediated recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) with a transgene “landing pad” composed of dual heterologous Bxb1 attachment (att) sites in cis, within the Gt(ROSA)26Sor safe harbor locus. RMCE of donor was achieved by microinjection of vector DNA carrying cognate attachment sites flanking the donor transgene with Bxb1-integrase mRNA. This approach achieves perfect vector-free integration of donor constructs at efficiencies > 40% with up to ~ 43 kb transgenes. Coupled with a nanopore-based Cas9-targeted sequencing (nCATS), complete verification of precise insertion sequence was achieved. As a proof-of-concept we describe the development of C57BL/6J and NSG Krt18-ACE2 models for SARS-CoV2 research with verified heterozygous N1 animals within ~ 4 months. Additionally, we created a series of mice with diverse backgrounds carrying a single att site including FVB/NJ, PWK/PhJ, NOD/ShiLtJ, CAST/EiJ and DBA/2J allowing for rapid transgene insertion. Combined, this system enables predictable, rapid development with simplified characterization of precisely targeted transgenic animals across multiple genetic backgrounds.
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4
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Roux I, Chooi YH. Cre/ lox-Mediated Chromosomal Integration of Biosynthetic Gene Clusters for Heterologous Expression in Aspergillus nidulans. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:1186-1195. [PMID: 35168324 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Building strains of filamentous fungi for stable long-term heterologous expression of large biosynthetic pathways is limited by the low transformation efficiency or genetic stability of current methods. Here, we developed a system for targeted chromosomal integration of large biosynthetic gene clusters in Aspergillus nidulans based on site-specific recombinase-mediated cassette exchange. We built A. nidulans strains harboring a chromosomal landing pad for Cre/lox-mediated recombination and demonstrated efficient targeted integration of a 21 kb DNA fragment in a single step. We further evaluated the integration at two loci by analyzing the expression of a fluorescent reporter and the production of a heterologous polyketide metabolite. We compared chromosomal expression at those landing loci to episomal AMA1-based expression, which also shed light on uncharacterized aspects of episomal expression in filamentous fungi. This is the first demonstration of site-specific recombinase-mediated integration in filamentous fungi, setting the foundations for the further development of this tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indra Roux
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Yit-Heng Chooi
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
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5
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Dehdilani N, Taemeh SY, Goshayeshi L, Dehghani H. Genetically engineered birds; pre-CRISPR and CRISPR era. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:24-46. [PMID: 34668968 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Generating biopharmaceuticals in genetically engineered bioreactors continues to reign supreme. Hence, genetically engineered birds have attracted considerable attention from the biopharmaceutical industry. Fairly recent genome engineering methods have made genome manipulation an easy and affordable task. In this review, we first provide a broad overview of the approaches and main impediments ahead of generating efficient and reliable genetically engineered birds, and various factors that affect the fate of a transgene. This section provides an essential background for the rest of the review, in which we discuss and compare different genome manipulation methods in the pre-CRISPR and CRISPR era in the field of avian genome engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Dehdilani
- Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sara Yousefi Taemeh
- Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Lena Goshayeshi
- Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hesam Dehghani
- Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Research Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Division of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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6
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Srirangan K, Loignon M, Durocher Y. The use of site-specific recombination and cassette exchange technologies for monoclonal antibody production in Chinese Hamster ovary cells: retrospective analysis and future directions. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2020; 40:833-851. [DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2020.1768043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kajan Srirangan
- Mammalian Cell Expression, Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Martin Loignon
- Mammalian Cell Expression, Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Yves Durocher
- Mammalian Cell Expression, Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département de biochimie et médecine moléculaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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7
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Vidigal J, Fernandes B, Dias MM, Patrone M, Roldão A, Carrondo MJT, Alves PM, Teixeira AP. RMCE-based insect cell platform to produce membrane proteins captured on HIV-1 Gag virus-like particles. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2017; 102:655-666. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-017-8628-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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8
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Häcker I, Harrell Ii RA, Eichner G, Pilitt KL, O'Brochta DA, Handler AM, Schetelig MF. Cre/lox-Recombinase-Mediated Cassette Exchange for Reversible Site-Specific Genomic Targeting of the Disease Vector, Aedes aegypti. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43883. [PMID: 28266580 PMCID: PMC5339718 DOI: 10.1038/srep43883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Site-specific genome modification (SSM) is an important tool for mosquito functional genomics and comparative gene expression studies, which contribute to a better understanding of mosquito biology and are thus a key to finding new strategies to eliminate vector-borne diseases. Moreover, it allows for the creation of advanced transgenic strains for vector control programs. SSM circumvents the drawbacks of transposon-mediated transgenesis, where random transgene integration into the host genome results in insertional mutagenesis and variable position effects. We applied the Cre/lox recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) system to Aedes aegypti, the vector of dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. In this context we created four target site lines for RMCE and evaluated their fitness costs. Cre-RMCE is functional in a two-step mechanism and with good efficiency in Ae. aegypti. The advantages of Cre-RMCE over existing site-specific modification systems for Ae. aegypti, phiC31-RMCE and CRISPR, originate in the preservation of the recombination sites, which 1) allows successive modifications and rapid expansion or adaptation of existing systems by repeated targeting of the same site; and 2) provides reversibility, thus allowing the excision of undesired sequences. Thereby, Cre-RMCE complements existing genomic modification tools, adding flexibility and versatility to vector genome targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Häcker
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Robert A Harrell Ii
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA.,Insect Transformation Facility, University of Maryland, College Park, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA
| | - Gerrit Eichner
- Mathematical Institute, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Arndtstrasse 2, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Kristina L Pilitt
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA
| | - David A O'Brochta
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, College Park, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA.,Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA
| | - Alfred M Handler
- USDA/ARS, Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, 1700 SW 23rd Drive, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Marc F Schetelig
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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Ordovás L, Boon R, Pistoni M, Chen Y, Sambathkumar R, Helsen N, Vanhove J, Berckmans P, Cai Q, Vanuytsel K, Raitano S, Verfaillie CM. Rapid and Efficient Generation of Recombinant Human Pluripotent Stem Cells by Recombinase-mediated Cassette Exchange in the AAVS1 Locus. J Vis Exp 2016. [PMID: 27911376 PMCID: PMC5226264 DOI: 10.3791/54718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Even with the revolution of gene-targeting technologies led by CRISPR-Cas9, genetic modification of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) is still time consuming. Comparative studies that use recombinant lines with transgenes integrated into safe harbor loci could benefit from approaches that use site-specific targeted recombinases, like Cre or FLPe, which are more rapid and less prone to off-target effects. Such methods have been described, although they do not significantly outperform gene targeting in most aspects. Using Zinc-finger nucleases, we previously created a master cell line in the AAVS1 locus of hPSCs that contains a GFP-Hygromycin-tk expressing cassette, flanked by heterotypic FRT sequences. Here, we describe the procedures to perform FLPe recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) using this line. The master cell line is transfected with a RMCE donor vector, which contains a promoterless Puromycin resistance, and with FLPe recombinase. Application of both a positive (Puromycin) and negative (FIAU) selection program leads to the selection of RMCE without random integrations. RMCE generates fully characterized pluripotent polyclonal transgenic lines in 15 d with 100% efficiency. Despite the recently described limitations of the AAVS1 locus, the ease of the system paves the way for hPSC transgenesis in isogenic settings, is necessary for comparative studies, and enables semi-high-throughput genetic screens for gain/loss of function analysis that would otherwise be highly time consuming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ordovás
- Stem Cell Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven;
| | - Ruben Boon
- Stem Cell Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
| | | | - Yemiao Chen
- Stem Cell Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
| | | | - Nicky Helsen
- Stem Cell Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
| | | | | | - Qing Cai
- Stem Cell Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
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10
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Abstract
The fields of molecular genetics, biotechnology and synthetic biology are demanding ever more sophisticated molecular tools for programmed precise modification of cell genomic DNA and other DNA sequences. This review presents the current state of knowledge and development of one important group of DNA-modifying enzymes, the site-specific recombinases (SSRs). SSRs are Nature's 'molecular machines' for cut-and-paste editing of DNA molecules by inserting, deleting or inverting precisely defined DNA segments. We survey the SSRs that have been put to use, and the types of applications for which they are suitable. We also discuss problems associated with uses of SSRs, how these problems can be minimized, and how recombinases are being re-engineered for improved performance and novel applications.
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11
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Weninger A, Killinger M, Vogl T. Key Methods for Synthetic Biology: Genome Engineering and DNA Assembly. Synth Biol (Oxf) 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-22708-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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Targeted Integration of Single-Copy Transgenes in Drosophila melanogaster Tissue-Culture Cells Using Recombination-Mediated Cassette Exchange. Genetics 2015; 201:1319-28. [PMID: 26500255 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.115.181230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfection of transgenes into Drosophila cultured cells is a standard approach for studying gene function. However, the number of transgenes present in the cell following transient transfection or stable random integration varies, and the resulting differences in expression level affect interpretation. Here we developed a system for Drosophila cell lines that allows selection of cells with a single-copy transgene inserted at a specific genomic site using recombination-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE). We used the φC31 integrase and its target sites attP and attB for RMCE. Cell lines with an attP-flanked genomic cassette were transfected with donor plasmids containing a transgene of interest (UAS-x), a dihydrofolate reductase (UAS-DHFR) gene flanked by attB sequences, and a thymidine kinase (UAS-TK) gene in the plasmid backbone outside the attB sequences. In cells undergoing RMCE, UAS-x and UAS-DHFR were exchanged for the attP-flanked genomic cassette, and UAS-TK was excluded. These cells were selected using methotrexate, which requires DHFR expression, and ganciclovir, which causes death in cells expressing TK. Pure populations of cells with one copy of a stably integrated transgene were efficiently selected by cloning or mass culture in ∼6 weeks. Our results show that RMCE avoids the problems associated with current methods, where transgene number is not controlled, and facilitates the rapid generation of Drosophila cell lines in which expression from a single transgene can be studied.
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Lang L, Ding HF, Chen X, Sun SY, Liu G, Yan C. Internal Ribosome Entry Site-Based Bicistronic In Situ Reporter Assays for Discovery of Transcription-Targeted Lead Compounds. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 22:957-64. [PMID: 26144883 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2015.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Although transgene-based reporter gene assays have been used to discover small molecules targeting expression of cancer-driving genes, the success is limited due to the fact that reporter gene expression regulated by incomplete cis-acting elements and foreign epigenetic environments does not faithfully reproduce chemical responses of endogenous genes. Here, we present an internal ribosome entry site-based strategy for bicistronically co-expressing reporter genes with an endogenous gene in the native gene locus, yielding an in situ reporter assay closely mimicking endogenous gene expression without disintegrating its function. This strategy combines the CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome-editing tool with the recombinase-mediated cassette-exchange technology, and allows for rapid development of orthogonal assays for excluding false hits generated from primary screens. We validated this strategy by developing a screening platform for identifying compounds targeting oncogenic eIF4E, and demonstrated that the novel reporter assays are powerful in searching for transcription-targeted lead compounds with high confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Lang
- GRU Cancer Center, Georgia Regents University, CN2134, 1410 Laney Walker Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Center for Cell Biology & Cancer Research, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Han-Fei Ding
- GRU Cancer Center, Georgia Regents University, CN2134, 1410 Laney Walker Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Pathology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100031, China
| | - Shi-Yong Sun
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine and Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Gang Liu
- Center for Cell Biology & Cancer Research, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Chunhong Yan
- GRU Cancer Center, Georgia Regents University, CN2134, 1410 Laney Walker Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Center for Cell Biology & Cancer Research, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA.
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Haghighat-Khah RE, Scaife S, Martins S, St John O, Matzen KJ, Morrison N, Alphey L. Site-specific cassette exchange systems in the Aedes aegypti mosquito and the Plutella xylostella moth. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121097. [PMID: 25830287 PMCID: PMC4382291 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically engineered insects are being evaluated as potential tools to decrease the economic and public health burden of mosquitoes and agricultural pest insects. Here we describe a new tool for the reliable and targeted genome manipulation of pest insects for research and field release using recombinase mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) mechanisms. We successfully demonstrated the established ΦC31-RMCE method in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, which is the first report of RMCE in mosquitoes. A new variant of this RMCE system, called iRMCE, combines the ΦC31-att integration system and Cre or FLP-mediated excision to remove extraneous sequences introduced as part of the site-specific integration process. Complete iRMCE was achieved in two important insect pests, Aedes aegypti and the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, demonstrating the transferability of the system across a wide phylogenetic range of insect pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Elaine Haghighat-Khah
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxitec Limited, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sara Martins
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxitec Limited, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver St John
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxitec Limited, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Luke Alphey
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxitec Limited, Oxford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (LA); (KJM)
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15
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Turan S, Qiao J, Madden S, Benham C, Kotz M, Schambach A, Bode J. Expanding Flp-RMCE options: the potential of Recombinase Mediated Twin-Site Targeting (RMTT). Gene 2014; 546:135-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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16
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Pogoda M, Bosse JB, Conzelmann KK, Koszinowski UH, Ruzsics Z. A modified screening system for loss-of-function and dominant negative alleles of essential MCMV genes. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94918. [PMID: 24733555 PMCID: PMC3986410 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Inactivation of gene products by dominant negative mutants is a valuable tool to assign functions to yet uncharacterized proteins, to map protein-protein interactions or to dissect physiological pathways. Detailed functional and structural knowledge about the target protein would allow the construction of inhibitory mutants by targeted mutagenesis. Yet, such data are limited for the majority of viral proteins, so that the target gene needs to be subjected to random mutagenesis to identify suitable mutants. However, for cytomegaloviruses this requires a two-step screening approach, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Here, we report the establishment of a high-throughput suitable screening system for the identification of inhibitory alleles of essential genes of the murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV). In this screen, the site-specific recombination of a specifically modified MCMV genome was transferred from the bacterial background to permissive host cells, thereby combining the genetic engineering and the rescue test in one step. Using a reference set of characterized pM53 mutants it was shown that the novel system is applicable to identify non-complementing as well as inhibitory mutants in a high-throughput suitable setup. The new cis-complementation assay was also applied to a basic genetic characterization of pM99, which was identified as essential for MCMV growth. We believe that the here described novel genetic screening approach can be adapted for the genetic characterization of essential genes of any large DNA viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madlen Pogoda
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institut, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- DZIF - German Center for Infection Research, Munich, Germany
| | - Jens B. Bosse
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institut, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Zsolt Ruzsics
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institut, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- DZIF - German Center for Infection Research, Munich, Germany
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17
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Vidigal J, Fernandes F, Coroadinha AS, Teixeira AP, Alves PM. Insect cell line development using FLP-mediated cassette exchange technology. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1104:15-27. [PMID: 24297406 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-733-4_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Traditional cell line development is quite laborious and time-consuming as it is based on the random integration of the gene of interest which leads to unpredictable expression behavior. In opposition, recombinase-mediated cassette exchange systems represent a powerful genetic engineering approach, allowing site-specific insertion of recombinant genes into pre-tagged genomic loci with superior expression characteristics, thus bypassing the need for extensive clone screening and shortening the development timelines. Such systems have not been widely implemented in insect cell lines used for the production of recombinant proteins most commonly through the baculovirus expression vector system. Herein, it is provided the protocol for the implementation of a FLP-mediated cassette exchange system in Spodoptera frugiperda Sf 9 cells, in order to grant a flexible cell line for the stable production of recombinant proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Vidigal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
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Not all GMOs are crop plants: non-plant GMO applications in agriculture. Transgenic Res 2013; 23:1057-68. [PMID: 24242193 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-013-9769-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Since tools of modern biotechnology have become available, the most commonly applied and often discussed genetically modified organisms are genetically modified crop plants, although genetic engineering is also being used successfully in organisms other than plants, including bacteria, fungi, insects, and viruses. Many of these organisms, as with crop plants, are being engineered for applications in agriculture, to control plant insect pests or diseases. This paper reviews the genetically modified non-plant organisms that have been the subject of permit approvals for environmental release by the United States Department of Agriculture/Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service since the US began regulating genetically modified organisms. This is an indication of the breadth and progress of research in the area of non-plant genetically modified organisms. This review includes three examples of promising research on non-plant genetically modified organisms for application in agriculture: (1) insects for insect pest control using improved vector systems; (2) fungal pathogens of insects to control insect pests; and (3) virus for use as transient-expression vectors for disease control in plants.
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Crawford Y, Zhou M, Hu Z, Joly J, Snedecor B, Shen A, Gao A. Fast identification of reliable hosts for targeted cell line development from a limited-genome screening using combined φC31 integrase and CRE-Lox technologies. Biotechnol Prog 2013; 29:1307-15. [DOI: 10.1002/btpr.1783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yongping Crawford
- Dept. of Early Stage Cell Culture; Genentech Inc.; A Member of the Roche Group; South San Francisco CA 94080
| | - Michelle Zhou
- Dept. of Early Stage Cell Culture; Genentech Inc.; A Member of the Roche Group; South San Francisco CA 94080
| | - Zhilan Hu
- Dept. of Early Stage Cell Culture; Genentech Inc.; A Member of the Roche Group; South San Francisco CA 94080
| | - John Joly
- Dept. of Early Stage Cell Culture; Genentech Inc.; A Member of the Roche Group; South San Francisco CA 94080
| | - Brad Snedecor
- Dept. of Early Stage Cell Culture; Genentech Inc.; A Member of the Roche Group; South San Francisco CA 94080
| | - Amy Shen
- Dept. of Early Stage Cell Culture; Genentech Inc.; A Member of the Roche Group; South San Francisco CA 94080
| | - Albert Gao
- School of Engineering, Tufts University; Boston MA 02155
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Recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) — A rapidly-expanding toolbox for targeted genomic modifications. Gene 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Michael IP, Monetti C, Chiu AC, Zhang P, Baba T, Nishino K, Agha-Mohammadi S, Woltjen K, Sung HK, Nagy A. Highly efficient site-specific transgenesis in cancer cell lines. Mol Cancer 2012; 11:89. [PMID: 23231822 PMCID: PMC3537676 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-11-89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transgenes introduced into cancer cell lines serve as powerful tools for identification of genes involved in cancer. However, the random nature of genomic integration site of a transgene highly influences the fidelity, reliability and level of its expression. In order to alleviate this bottleneck, we characterized the potential utility of a novel PhiC31 integrase-mediated site-specific insertion system (PhiC31-IMSI) for introduction of transgenes into a pre-inserted docking site in the genome of cancer cells. Methods According to this system, a “docking-site” was first randomly inserted into human cancer cell lines and clones with a single copy were selected. Subsequently, an “incoming” vector containing the gene of interest was specifically inserted in the docking-site using PhiC31. Results Using the Pc-3 and SKOV-3 cancer cell lines, we showed that transgene insertion is reproducible and reliable. Furthermore, the selection system ensured that all surviving stable transgenic lines harbored the correct integration site. We demonstrated that the expression levels of reporter genes, such as green fluorescent protein and luciferase, from the same locus were comparable among sister, isogenic clones. Using in vivo xenograft studies, we showed that the genetically altered cancer cell lines retain the properties of the parental line. To achieve temporal control of transgene expression, we coupled our insertion strategy with the doxycycline inducible system and demonstrated tight regulation of the expression of the antiangiogenic molecule sFlt-1-Fc in Pc-3 cells. Furthermore, we introduced the luciferase gene into the insertion cassette allowing for possible live imaging of cancer cells in transplantation assays. We also generated a series of Gateway cloning-compatible intermediate cassettes ready for high-throughput cloning of transgenes and demonstrated that PhiC31-IMSI can be achieved in a high throughput 96-well plate format. Conclusions The novel PhiC31-IMSI system described in this study represents a powerful tool that can facilitate the characterization of cancer-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iacovos P Michael
- Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5, Canada
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Captured segment exchange: a strategy for custom engineering large genomic regions in Drosophila melanogaster. Genetics 2012; 193:421-30. [PMID: 23150604 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.112.145748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Site-specific recombinases (SSRs) are valuable tools for manipulating genomes. In Drosophila, thousands of transgenic insertions carrying SSR recognition sites have been distributed throughout the genome by several large-scale projects. Here we describe a method with the potential to use these insertions to make custom alterations to the Drosophila genome in vivo. Specifically, by employing recombineering techniques and a dual recombinase-mediated cassette exchange strategy based on the phiC31 integrase and FLP recombinase, we show that a large genomic segment that lies between two SSR recognition-site insertions can be "captured" as a target cassette and exchanged for a sequence that was engineered in bacterial cells. We demonstrate this approach by targeting a 50-kb segment spanning the tsh gene, replacing the existing segment with corresponding recombineered sequences through simple and efficient manipulations. Given the high density of SSR recognition-site insertions in Drosophila, our method affords a straightforward and highly efficient approach to explore gene function in situ for a substantial portion of the Drosophila genome.
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MitoNEET-driven alterations in adipocyte mitochondrial activity reveal a crucial adaptive process that preserves insulin sensitivity in obesity. Nat Med 2012; 18:1539-49. [PMID: 22961109 DOI: 10.1038/nm.2899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 338] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 07/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We examined mouse models with altered adipocyte expression of mitoNEET, a protein residing in the mitochondrial outer membrane, to probe its impact on mitochondrial function and subsequent cellular responses. We found that overexpression of mitoNEET enhances lipid uptake and storage, leading to an expansion of the mass of adipose tissue. Despite the resulting massive obesity, benign aspects of adipose tissue expansion prevail, and insulin sensitivity is preserved. Mechanistically, we also found that mitoNEET inhibits mitochondrial iron transport into the matrix and, because iron is a rate-limiting component for electron transport, lowers the rate of β-oxidation. This effect is associated with a lower mitochondrial membrane potential and lower levels of reactive oxygen species-induced damage, along with increased production of adiponectin. Conversely, a reduction in mitoNEET expression enhances mitochondrial respiratory capacity through enhanced iron content in the matrix, ultimately corresponding to less weight gain on a high-fat diet. However, this reduction in mitoNEET expression also causes heightened oxidative stress and glucose intolerance. Thus, manipulation of mitochondrial function by varying mitoNEET expression markedly affects the dynamics of cellular and whole-body lipid homeostasis.
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Fernandes F, Vidigal J, Dias MM, Prather KL, Coroadinha AS, Teixeira AP, Alves PM. Flipase-mediated cassette exchange inSf9insect cells for stable gene expression. Biotechnol Bioeng 2012; 109:2836-44. [DOI: 10.1002/bit.24542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2012] [Revised: 03/21/2012] [Accepted: 04/24/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Abstract
The ability to manipulate the genomes of many insects has become a practical reality over the past 15 years. This has been led by the identification of several useful transposon vector systems that have allowed the identification and development of generalized, species-specific, and tissue-specific promoter systems for controlled expression of gene products upon introduction into insect genomes. Armed with these capabilities, researchers have made significant strides in both fundamental and applied transgenics in key model systems such as Bombyx mori, Tribolium casteneum, Aedes aegypti, and Anopheles stephensi. Limitations of transposon systems were identified, and alternative tools were developed, thus significantly increasing the potential for applied transgenics for control of both agricultural and medical insect pests. The next 10 years promise to be an exciting time of transitioning from the laboratory to the field, from basic research to applied control, during which the full potential of gene manipulation in insect systems will ultimately be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm J Fraser
- Eck Institute for Global Health, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556-0369, USA.
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Wilke S, Groebe L, Maffenbeier V, Jäger V, Gossen M, Josewski J, Duda A, Polle L, Owens RJ, Wirth D, Heinz DW, van den Heuvel J, Büssow K. Streamlining homogeneous glycoprotein production for biophysical and structural applications by targeted cell line development. PLoS One 2011; 6:e27829. [PMID: 22174749 PMCID: PMC3235087 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 10/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Studying the biophysical characteristics of glycosylated proteins and solving their three-dimensional structures requires homogeneous recombinant protein of high quality.We introduce here a new approach to produce glycoproteins in homogenous form with the well-established, glycosylation mutant CHO Lec3.2.8.1 cells. Using preparative cell sorting, stable, high-expressing GFP 'master' cell lines were generated that can be converted fast and reliably by targeted integration via Flp recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) to produce any glycoprotein. Small-scale transient transfection of HEK293 cells was used to identify genetically engineered constructs suitable for constructing stable cell lines. Stable cell lines expressing 10 different proteins were established. The system was validated by expression, purification, deglycosylation and crystallization of the heavily glycosylated luminal domains of lysosome-associated membrane proteins (LAMP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Wilke
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Lothar Groebe
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Vitali Maffenbeier
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Volker Jäger
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Manfred Gossen
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Centre for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörn Josewski
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Agathe Duda
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Lilia Polle
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Raymond J. Owens
- Division of Structural Biology, Henry Wellcome Building for Genomic Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Protein Production Facility UK, The Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Dagmar Wirth
- Department of Gene Regulation and Differentiation, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Dirk W. Heinz
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Joop van den Heuvel
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Konrad Büssow
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
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MiMIC: a highly versatile transposon insertion resource for engineering Drosophila melanogaster genes. Nat Methods 2011; 8:737-43. [PMID: 21985007 PMCID: PMC3191940 DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.1662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 472] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate the versatility of a collection of insertions of the transposon Minos mediated integration cassette (MiMIC), in Drosophila melanogaster. MiMIC contains a gene-trap cassette and the yellow+ marker flanked by two inverted bacteriophage ΦC31 attP sites. MiMIC integrates almost at random in the genome to create sites for DNA manipulation. The attP sites allow the replacement of the intervening sequence of the transposon with any other sequence through recombinase mediated cassette exchange (RMCE). We can revert insertions that function as gene traps and cause mutant phenotypes to wild type by RMCE and modify insertions to control GAL4 or QF overexpression systems or perform lineage analysis using the Flp system. Insertions within coding introns can be exchanged with protein-tag cassettes to create fusion proteins to follow protein expression and perform biochemical experiments. The applications of MiMIC vastly extend the Drosophila melanogaster toolkit.
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Turan S, Bode J. Site‐specific recombinases: from tag‐and‐target‐ to tag‐and‐exchange‐based genomic modifications. FASEB J 2011; 25:4088-107. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.11-186940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Soeren Turan
- Institute for Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School Hannover Germany
| | - Juergen Bode
- Institute for Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School Hannover Germany
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Husaini AM, Rashid Z, Mir RUR, Aquil B. Approaches for gene targeting and targeted gene expression in plants. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 2:150-62. [PMID: 22179193 DOI: 10.4161/gmcr.2.3.18605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Transgenic science and technology are fundamental to state-of-the-art plant molecular genetics and crop improvement. The new generation of technology endeavors to introduce genes 'stably' into 'site-specific' locations and in 'single copy' without the integration of extraneous vector 'backbone' sequences or selectable markers and with a 'predictable and consistent' expression. Several similar strategies and technologies, which can push the development of 'smart' genetically modified plants with desirable attributes, as well as enhance their consumer acceptability, are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amjad Masood Husaini
- Division of Plant Breeding and Genetics; Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir; Shalimar, India.
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Turan S, Galla M, Ernst E, Qiao J, Voelkel C, Schiedlmeier B, Zehe C, Bode J. Recombinase-Mediated Cassette Exchange (RMCE): Traditional Concepts and Current Challenges. J Mol Biol 2011; 407:193-221. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2011.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2010] [Revised: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 01/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Meek S, Buehr M, Sutherland L, Thomson A, Mullins JJ, Smith AJ, Burdon T. Efficient gene targeting by homologous recombination in rat embryonic stem cells. PLoS One 2010; 5:e14225. [PMID: 21151976 PMCID: PMC2997056 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The rat is the preferred experimental animal in many biological studies. With the recent derivation of authentic rat embryonic stem (ES) cells it is now feasible to apply state-of-the art genetic engineering in this species using homologous recombination. To establish whether rat ES cells are amenable to in vivo recombination, we tested targeted disruption of the hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (hprt) locus in ES cells derived from both inbred and outbred strains of rats. Targeting vectors that replace exons 7 and 8 of the hprt gene with neomycinR/thymidine kinase selection cassettes were electroporated into male Fisher F344 and Sprague Dawley rat ES cells. Approximately 2% of the G418 resistant colonies also tolerated selection with 6-thioguanine, indicating inactivation of the hprt gene. PCR and Southern blot analysis confirmed correct site-specific targeting of the hprt locus in these clones. Embryoid body and monolayer differentiation of targeted cell lines established that they retained differentiation potential following targeting and selection. This report demonstrates that gene modification via homologous recombination in rat ES cells is efficient, and should facilitate implementation of targeted, genetic manipulation in the rat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Meek
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Mia Buehr
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Sutherland
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Thomson
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - John J. Mullins
- Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Smith
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Burdon
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Recillas‐Targa F, Guerrero G, Escamilla‐del‐Arenal M, Rincón‐Arano H. Gene Expression in Mammalian Cells. Genomics 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/9780470711675.ch7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Wang X, Sa N, Tian PF, Tan TW. Classifying DNA assembly protocols for devising cellular architectures. Biotechnol Adv 2010; 29:156-63. [PMID: 21034806 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2010.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2010] [Revised: 10/09/2010] [Accepted: 10/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
DNA assembly is one of the most fundamental techniques in synthetic biology. Efficient methods can turn traditional DNA cloning into time-saving and higher efficiency practice, which is a foundation to accomplish the dreams of synthetic biologists for devising cellular architectures, reprogramming cellular behaviors, or creating synthetic cells. In this review, typical strategies of DNA assembly are discussed with special emphasis on the assembly of long and multiple DNA fragments into intact plasmids or assembled compositions. Constructively, all reported strategies were categorized into in vivo and in vitro types, and protocols are presented in a functional and practice-oriented way in order to portray the general nature of DNA assembly applications. Significantly, a five-step blueprint is proposed for devising cell architectures that produce valuable chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15 Beisanhuan East Road, Beijing 100029, PR China
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35
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Multiplexing RMCE: Versatile Extensions of the Flp-Recombinase-Mediated Cassette-Exchange Technology. J Mol Biol 2010; 402:52-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2010.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2010] [Revised: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Development of a BAC vector for integration-independent and tight regulation of transgenes in rodents via the Tet system. Transgenic Res 2010; 20:709-20. [PMID: 20640885 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-010-9427-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Accepted: 07/03/2010] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The establishment of functional transgenic mouse lines is often limited by problems caused by integration site effects on the expression construct. Similarly, tetracycline (Tet) controlled transcription units most commonly used for conditional transgene expression in mice are strongly influenced by their genomic surrounding. Using bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) technology in constitutive expression systems, it has been shown that integration site effects resulting in unwanted expression patterns can be largely eliminated. Here we describe a strategy to minimize unfavourable integration effects on conditional expression constructs based on a 75 kb genomic BAC fragment. This fragment was derived from a transgenic mouse line, termed LC-1, which carries the Tet-inducible genes luciferase and cre (Schönig et al. 2002). Animals of this mouse line have previously been shown to exhibit optimal expression properties in terms of tightness in the off state and the absolute level of induction, when mated to appropriate transactivator expressing mice. Here we report the cloning and identification of the transgenic LC-1 integration site which was subsequently inserted into a bacterial artificial chromosome. We demonstrate that this vector facilitates the efficient generation of transgenic mouse and rat lines, where the Tet-controlled expression unit is shielded from perturbations caused by the integration site.
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Schebelle L, Wolf C, Stribl C, Javaheri T, Schnütgen F, Ettinger A, Ivics Z, Hansen J, Ruiz P, von Melchner H, Wurst W, Floss T. Efficient conditional and promoter-specific in vivo expression of cDNAs of choice by taking advantage of recombinase-mediated cassette exchange using FlEx gene traps. Nucleic Acids Res 2010; 38:e106. [PMID: 20139417 PMCID: PMC2875000 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkq044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) exploits the possibility to unidirectionally exchange any genetic material flanked by heterotypic recombinase recognition sites (RRS) with target sites in the genome. Due to a limited number of available pre-fabricated target sites, RMCE in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells has not been tapped to its full potential to date. Here, we introduce a universal system, which allows the targeted insertion of any given transcriptional unit into 85 742 previously annotated retroviral conditional gene trap insertions, representing 7013 independent genes in mouse ES cells, by RMCE. This system can be used to express any given cDNA under the control of endogenous trapped promoters in vivo, as well as for the generation of transposon ‘launch pads’ for chromosomal region-specific ‘Sleeping Beauty’ insertional mutagenesis. Moreover, transcription of the gene-of-interest is only activated upon Cre-recombinase activity, a feature that adds conditionality to this expression system, which is demonstrated in vivo. The use of the RMCE system presented in this work requires one single-cloning step followed by one overnight gateway clonase reaction and subsequent cassette exchange in ES cells with efficiencies of 40% in average.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Schebelle
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Technische Universität München, Institut für Entwicklungsgenetik, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 München, Neuherberg, Germany
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Kameyama Y, Kawabe Y, Ito A, Kamihira M. An accumulative site-specific gene integration system using cre recombinase-mediated cassette exchange. Biotechnol Bioeng 2010; 105:1106-14. [DOI: 10.1002/bit.22619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Abstract
Within the past 10 years, RNA interference has emerged as a powerful experimental tool as it allows rapid gene function analysis. Unique features such as reversibility of gene silencing and simultaneous targeting of several genes characterize the approach. In this chapter, transgenic RNAi techniques in reverse mouse genetics are discussed and protocols are provided.
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Abstract
Gene trapping in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells is an efficient method for the mutagenesis of the mammalian genome. Insertion of a gene trap vector disrupts gene function, reports gene expression, and provides a convenient tag for the identification of the insertion site. The trap vector can be delivered to ES cells by electroporation of a plasmid, by retroviral infection, or by transposon-mediated insertion. Recent developments in trapping technology involve the utilization of site-specific recombination sites, which allow the induced modification of trap alleles in vitro and in vivo. Gene trapping strategies have also been successfully developed to screen for genes that are acting in specific biological pathways. In this chapter, we review different applications of gene trapping, and we provide detailed experimental protocols for gene trapping in ES cells by retroviral and transposon gene trap vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland H Friedel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA
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A Practical Summary of Site-Specific Recombination, Conditional Mutagenesis, and Tamoxifen Induction of CreERT2. Methods Enzymol 2010; 477:109-23. [DOI: 10.1016/s0076-6879(10)77007-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Li Z, Xing A, Moon BP, McCardell RP, Mills K, Falco SC. Site-specific integration of transgenes in soybean via recombinase-mediated DNA cassette exchange. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2009; 151:1087-95. [PMID: 19429604 PMCID: PMC2773068 DOI: 10.1104/pp.109.137612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2009] [Accepted: 05/05/2009] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
A targeting method to insert genes at a previously characterized genetic locus to make plant transformation and transgene expression predictable is highly desirable for plant biotechnology. We report the successful targeting of transgenes to predefined soybean (Glycine max) genome sites using the yeast FLP-FRT recombination system. First, a target DNA containing a pair of incompatible FRT sites flanking a selection gene was introduced in soybean by standard biolistic transformation. Transgenic events containing a single copy of the target were retransformed with a donor DNA, which contained the same pair of FRT sites flanking a different selection gene, and a FLP expression DNA. Precise DNA cassette exchange was achieved between the target and donor DNA via recombinase-mediated cassette exchange, so that the donor DNA was introduced at the locus previously occupied by the target DNA. The introduced donor genes expressed normally and segregated according to Mendelian laws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongsen Li
- DuPont/Pioneer Crop Genetics, Experimental Station, Wilmington, Delaware 19880, USA.
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Schucht R, Wirth D, May T. Precise regulation of transgene expression level and control of cell physiology. Cell Biol Toxicol 2009; 26:29-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s10565-009-9135-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2009] [Accepted: 08/10/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Anastassiadis K, Fu J, Patsch C, Hu S, Weidlich S, Duerschke K, Buchholz F, Edenhofer F, Stewart AF. Dre recombinase, like Cre, is a highly efficient site-specific recombinase in E. coli, mammalian cells and mice. Dis Model Mech 2009; 2:508-15. [PMID: 19692579 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.003087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tyrosine site-specific recombinases (SSRs) including Cre and FLP are essential tools for DNA and genome engineering. Cre has long been recognized as the best SSR for genome engineering, particularly in mice. Obtaining another SSR that is as good as Cre will be a valuable addition to the genomic toolbox. To this end, we have developed and validated reagents for the Dre-rox system. These include an Escherichia coli-inducible expression vector based on the temperature-sensitive pSC101 plasmid, a mammalian expression vector based on the CAGGs promoter, a rox-lacZ reporter embryonic stem (ES) cell line based on targeting at the Rosa26 locus, the accompanying Rosa26-rox reporter mouse line, and a CAGGs-Dre deleter mouse line. We also show that a Dre-progesterone receptor shows good ligand-responsive induction properties. Furthermore, we show that there is no crossover recombination between Cre-rox or Dre-loxP. Hence, we add another set of efficient tools to the genomic toolbox, which will enable the development of more sophisticated mouse models for the analysis of gene function and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Anastassiadis
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, BioInnovationsZentrum Technische Universitaet Dresden, Am Tatzberg 47, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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Qiao J, Oumard A, Wegloehner W, Bode J. Novel Tag-and-Exchange (RMCE) Strategies Generate Master Cell Clones with Predictable and Stable Transgene Expression Properties. J Mol Biol 2009; 390:579-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2009.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2009] [Revised: 04/29/2009] [Accepted: 05/06/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Wang S, Zhao Y, Leiby MA, Zhu J. Studying human telomerase gene transcription by a chromatinized reporter generated by recombinase-mediated targeting of a bacterial artificial chromosome. Nucleic Acids Res 2009; 37:e111. [PMID: 19528078 PMCID: PMC2761251 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkp511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endogenous human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene is repressed in somatic cells. To study the mechanisms of its repression, we developed a strategy of retrovirus-directed Cre recombinase-mediated BAC targeting, or RMBT, to generate single-copy integrations of BAC at pre-engineered chromosomal sites. This technique involved retroviral transduction of acceptor loci, containing an HSV thymidine kinase marker, and subsequent integration of BAC constructs into the acceptor sites, utilizing the loxP and lox511 sites present in the vector backbones. The BAC reporter, with a Renilla luciferase cassette inserted downstream of the hTERT promoter, was retrofitted with a puromycin marker. Through puromycin selection and ganciclovir counter-selection, a targeting efficiency of over 50% was achieved. We demonstrated that the activity and chromatin structures of the hTERT promoter in chromosomally integrated BAC reporter recapitulated its endogenous counterpart of the host cells. Therefore, we have established a genetically amendable platform to study chromatin and epigenetic regulation of the hTERT gene. The highly efficient and versatile RMBT technique has general applicability for studying largely unexplored chromatin-dependent mechanisms of promoter regulation of various genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwen Wang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
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Weidenfeld I, Gossen M, Löw R, Kentner D, Berger S, Görlich D, Bartsch D, Bujard H, Schönig K. Inducible expression of coding and inhibitory RNAs from retargetable genomic loci. Nucleic Acids Res 2009; 37:e50. [PMID: 19264799 PMCID: PMC2673444 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkp108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Conditional gene expression systems have developed into essential tools for the study of gene functions. However, their utility is often limited by the difficulty of identifying clonal cell lines, in which transgene control can be realized to its full potential. Here, we describe HeLa cell lines, in which we have identified-by functional analysis-genomic loci, from which the expression of transgenes can be tightly controlled via tetracycline-regulated expression. These loci can be re-targeted by recombinase-mediated cassette exchange. Upon exchange of the gene of interest, the resulting cell line exhibits the qualitative and quantitative properties of controlled transgene expression characteristic for the parent cell line. Moreover, by using an appropriate promoter, these cell lines express the tetracycline controlled transcription activator rtTA2-M2 uniformly throughout the entire cell population. The potential of this approach for functional genomics is highlighted by utilizing one of our master cell lines for the efficient microRNA-mediated knockdown of the endogenous human lamin A/C gene.
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Abstract
Gene targeting in mice has been used extensively to elucidate gene function in vivo. However, for gene targeting to be successful, the targeting vector must be carefully designed. This chapter addresses the rationale behind designing targeting vectors, detailing the essential components, and highlighting specific considerations for different types of vectors, from gene deletions to point mutations and insertions. Examples of vector designs, cloning strategies, and approaches for successful screening of recombinants are described. The use of Cre/LoxP and Flp/frt systems for conditional targeting is described, together with strategies for generating conditional deletions. Methods for generating conditional point mutations are also described and their potential drawbacks discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Simon
- Transgenic Service, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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Houdebine LM. Methods to Generate Transgenic Animals. ETHICS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-85843-0_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Djukanovic V, Lenderts B, Bidney D, Lyznik LA. A Cre::FLP fusion protein recombines FRT or loxP sites in transgenic maize plants. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2008; 6:770-781. [PMID: 18627532 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2008.00357.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The coding sequences of Cre (site-specific recombinase from bacteriophage P1) and FLP (yeast 2-microm plasmid site-specific recombinase) were fused in frame to produce a novel, dual-function, site-specific recombinase gene. Transgenic maize plants containing the Cre::FLP fusion expression vector were crossed to transgenic plants containing either the loxP or FRT excision substrate. Complete and precise excisions of chromosomal fragments flanked by the respective target sites were observed in the F1 and F2 progeny plants. The episomal DNA recombination products were frequently lost. Non-recombined FRT substrates found in the F1 plants were recovered in the F2 generation after the Cre::FLP gene segregated out. They produced the recombination products in the F3 generation when crossed back to the FLP-expressing plants. These observations may indicate that the efficiency of site-specific recombination is affected by the plant developmental stage, with site-specific recombination being more prevalent in developing embryos. The Cre::FLP fusion protein was also tested for excisions catalysed by Cre. Excisions were identified in the F1 plants and verified in the F2 plants by polymerase chain reaction and Southern blotting. Both components of the fusion protein (FLP and Cre) were functional and acted with similar efficiency. The crossing strategy proved to be suitable for the genetic engineering of maize using the FLP or Cre site-specific recombination system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesna Djukanovic
- Pioneer Hi-Bred International, A DuPont Business, Research Center, 7300 NW 62nd Avenue, Johnston, IA 50131-1004, USA
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