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Allemailem KS, Almatroudi A, Rahmani AH, Alrumaihi F, Alradhi AE, Alsubaiyel AM, Algahtani M, Almousa RM, Mahzari A, Sindi AAA, Dobie G, Khan AA. Recent Updates of the CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing System: Novel Approaches to Regulate Its Spatiotemporal Control by Genetic and Physicochemical Strategies. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:5335-5363. [PMID: 38859956 PMCID: PMC11164216 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s455574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The genome editing approach by clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) is a revolutionary advancement in genetic engineering. Owing to its simple design and powerful genome-editing capability, it offers a promising strategy for the treatment of different infectious, metabolic, and genetic diseases. The crystal structure of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) in complex with sgRNA and its target DNA at 2.5 Å resolution reveals a groove accommodating sgRNA:DNA heteroduplex within a bilobate architecture with target recognition (REC) and nuclease (NUC) domains. The presence of a PAM is significantly required for target recognition, R-loop formation, and strand scission. Recently, the spatiotemporal control of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing has been considerably improved by genetic, chemical, and physical regulatory strategies. The use of genetic modifiers anti-CRISPR proteins, cell-specific promoters, and histone acetyl transferases has uplifted the application of CRISPR/Cas9 as a future-generation genome editing tool. In addition, interventions by chemical control, small-molecule activators, oligonucleotide conjugates and bioresponsive delivery carriers have improved its application in other areas of biological fields. Furthermore, the intermediation of physical control by using heat-, light-, magnetism-, and ultrasound-responsive elements attached to this molecular tool has revolutionized genome editing further. These strategies significantly reduce CRISPR/Cas9's undesirable off-target effects. However, other undesirable effects still offer some challenges for comprehensive clinical translation using this genome-editing approach. In this review, we summarize recent advances in CRISPR/Cas9 structure, mechanistic action, and the role of small-molecule activators, inhibitors, promoters, and physical approaches. Finally, off-target measurement approaches, challenges, future prospects, and clinical applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled S Allemailem
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Almatroudi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arshad Husain Rahmani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris Alrumaihi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arwa Essa Alradhi
- General Administration for Infectious Disease Control, Ministry of Health, Riyadh 12382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal M Alsubaiyel
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Algahtani
- Department of Laboratory & Blood Bank, Security Forces Hospital, Mecca 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rand Mohammad Almousa
- Department of Education, General Directorate of Education, Qassim 52361, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Mahzari
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha 65527, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmajeed A A Sindi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha 65527, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gasim Dobie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Gizan 82911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad Ali Khan
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
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Tanga S, Hota A, Karmakar A, Banerjee P, Maji B. Cysteine-independent CRISPR-Associated Protein Labeling for Presentation and Co-delivery of Molecules Toward Genetic and Epigenetic Regulations. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202400149. [PMID: 38530114 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202400149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Labeling of CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) associated proteins (Cas) remains an immense challenge for their genome engineering applications. To date, cysteine-mediated bioconjugation is the most efficient strategy for labeling Cas proteins. However, introducing a cysteine residue in the protein at the right place might be challenging without perturbing the enzymatic activity. We report a method that does not require cysteine residues for small molecule presentation on the CRISPR-associated protein SpCas9 for in vitro protein detection, probing cellular protein expression, and nuclear co-delivery of molecules in mammalian cells. We repurposed a simple protein purification tag His6 peptide for non-covalent labeling of molecules on the CRISPR enzyme SpCas9. The small molecule labeling enabled us to rapidly detect SpCas9 in a biochemical assay. We demonstrate that small molecule labeling can be utilized for probing bacterial protein expression in realtime. Furthermore, we coupled SpCas9's nuclear-targeting ability in co-delivering the presenting small molecules to the mammalian cell nucleus for prospective genome engineering applications. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the method can be generalized to label oligonucleotides for multiplexing CRISPR-based genome editing and template-mediated DNA repair applications. This work paves the way for genomic loci-specific bioactive small molecule and oligonucleotide co-delivery toward genetic and epigenetic regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadiya Tanga
- Ashoka University, Department of Chemistry, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana, 131029
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700091, West Bengal
| | - Arpita Hota
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700091, West Bengal
| | - Arkadeep Karmakar
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700091, West Bengal
| | - Paramita Banerjee
- S N Bose National Centre for Basic Science, JD Block, Sector 3, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700106, West Bengal
| | - Basudeb Maji
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN 80, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700091, West Bengal
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3
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Li B, Li Q, Qi Z, Li Z, Yan X, Chen Y, Xu X, Pan Q, Chen Y, Huang F, Ping Y. Supramolecular Genome Editing: Targeted Delivery and Endogenous Activation of CRISPR/Cas9 by Dynamic Host-Guest Recognition. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202316323. [PMID: 38317057 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202316323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
We synthesize supramolecular poly(disulfide) (CPS) containing covalently attached cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]), which is exploited not only as a carrier to deliver plasmid DNA encoding destabilized Cas9 (dsCas9), but also as a host to include trimethoprim (TMP) by CB[7] moieties through the supramolecular complexation to form TMP@CPS/dsCas9. Once the plasmid is transfected into tumor cells by CPS, the presence of polyamines can competitively trigger the decomplexation of TMP@CPS, thereby displacing and releasing TMP from CB[7] to stabilize dsCas9 that can target and edit the genomic locus of PLK1 to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Following the systemic administration of TMP@CPS/dsCas9 decorated with hyaluronic acid (HA), tumor-specific editing of PLK1 is detected due to the elevated polyamines in tumor microenvironment, greatly minimizing off-target editing in healthy tissues and non-targeted organs. As the metabolism of polyamines is dysregulated in a wide range of disorders, this study offers a supramolecular approach to precisely control CRISPR/Cas9 functions under particular pathological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 311121, P. R. China
| | - Qing Li
- Stoddart Institute of Molecular Science, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- Zhejiang-Israel Joint Laboratory of Self-Assembling Functional Materials, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 311215, P. R. China
| | - Zidan Qi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Zhiyao Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojie Yan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojie Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 311121, P. R. China
| | - Qi Pan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Yuxuan Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Feihe Huang
- Stoddart Institute of Molecular Science, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- Zhejiang-Israel Joint Laboratory of Self-Assembling Functional Materials, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 311215, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Ping
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 311121, P. R. China
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Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Synthetic Gene Circuits for Regulation of Next-Generation Cell-Based Therapeutics. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2309088. [PMID: 38126677 PMCID: PMC10885662 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Arming human cells with synthetic gene circuits enables to expand their capacity to execute superior sensing and response actions, offering tremendous potential for innovative cellular therapeutics. This can be achieved by assembling components from an ever-expanding molecular toolkit, incorporating switches based on transcriptional, translational, or post-translational control mechanisms. This review provides examples from the three classes of switches, and discusses their advantages and limitations to regulate the activity of therapeutic cells in vivo. Genetic switches designed to recognize internal disease-associated signals often encode intricate actuation programs that orchestrate a reduction in the sensed signal, establishing a closed-loop architecture. Conversely, switches engineered to detect external molecular or physical cues operate in an open-loop fashion, switching on or off upon signal exposure. The integration of such synthetic gene circuits into the next generation of chimeric antigen receptor T-cells is already enabling precise calibration of immune responses in terms of magnitude and timing, thereby improving the potency and safety of therapeutic cells. Furthermore, pre-clinical engineered cells targeting other chronic diseases are gathering increasing attention, and this review discusses the path forward for achieving clinical success. With synthetic biology at the forefront, cellular therapeutics holds great promise for groundbreaking treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P. Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and EngineeringETH ZurichKlingelbergstrasse 48BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and EngineeringETH ZurichKlingelbergstrasse 48BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
- Faculty of ScienceUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 48BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
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5
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Franko N, da Silva Santinha AJ, Xue S, Zhao H, Charpin-El Hamri G, Platt RJ, Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Integrated compact regulators of protein activity enable control of signaling pathways and genome-editing in vivo. Cell Discov 2024; 10:9. [PMID: 38263404 PMCID: PMC10805712 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-023-00632-1] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Viral proteases and clinically safe inhibitors were employed to build integrated compact regulators of protein activity (iCROP) for post-translational regulation of functional proteins by tunable proteolytic activity. In the absence of inhibitor, the co-localized/fused protease cleaves a target peptide sequence introduced in an exposed loop of the protein of interest, irreversibly fragmenting the protein structure and destroying its functionality. We selected three proteases and demonstrated the versatility of the iCROP framework by validating it to regulate the functional activity of ten different proteins. iCROP switches can be delivered either as mRNA or DNA, and provide rapid actuation kinetics with large induction ratios, while remaining strongly suppressed in the off state without inhibitor. iCROPs for effectors of the NF-κB and NFAT signaling pathways were assembled and confirmed to enable precise activation/inhibition of downstream events in response to protease inhibitors. In lipopolysaccharide-treated mice, iCROP-sr-IκBα suppressed cytokine release ("cytokine storm") by rescuing the activity of IκBα, which suppresses NF-κB signaling. We also constructed compact inducible CRISPR-(d)Cas9 variants and showed that iCROP-Cas9-mediated knockout of the PCSK9 gene in the liver lowered blood LDL-cholesterol levels in mice. iCROP-based protein switches will facilitate protein-level regulation in basic research and translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nik Franko
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Shuai Xue
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Haijie Zhao
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ghislaine Charpin-El Hamri
- Département Génie Biologique, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, Cedex, France
| | | | - Ana Palma Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Devarajan A. Optically Controlled CRISPR-Cas9 and Cre Recombinase for Spatiotemporal Gene Editing: A Review. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:25-44. [PMID: 38134336 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 and Cre recombinase, two tools extensively used for genome interrogation, have catalyzed key breakthroughs in our understanding of complex biological processes and diseases. However, the immense complexity of biological systems and off-target effects hinder clinical applications, necessitating the development of platforms to control gene editing over spatial and temporal dimensions. Among the strategies developed for inducible control, light is particularly attractive as it is noninvasive and affords high spatiotemporal resolution. The principles for optical control of Cas9 and Cre recombinase are broadly similar and involve photocaged enzymes and small molecules, engineered split- and single-chain constructs, light-induced expression, and delivery by light-responsive nanocarriers. Few systems enable spatiotemporal control with a high dynamic range without loss of wild-type editing efficiencies. Such systems posit the promise of light-activatable systems in the clinic. While the prospect of clinical applications is palpably exciting, optimization and extensive preclinical validation are warranted. Judicious integration of optically activated CRISPR and Cre, tailored for the desired application, may help to bridge the "bench-to-bedside" gap in therapeutic gene editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archit Devarajan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, Bhauri, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India - 462066
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7
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Wang Z, Yuan H, Yang L, Ma L, Zhang Y, Deng J, Li X, Xiao W, Li Z, Qiu J, Ouyang H, Pang D. Decreasing predictable DNA off-target effects and narrowing editing windows of adenine base editors by fusing human Rad18 protein variant. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127418. [PMID: 37848112 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Adenine base editors, enabling targeted A-to-G conversion in genomic DNA, have enormous potential in therapeutic applications. However, the currently used adenine base editors are limited by wide editing windows and off-target effects in genetic therapy. Here, we report human e18 protein, a RING type E3 ubiquitin ligase variant, fusing with adenine base editors can significantly improve the preciseness and narrow the editing windows compared with ABEmax and ABE8e by diminishing the abundance of base editor protein. As a proof of concept, ABEmax-e18 and ABE8e-e18 dramatically decrease Cas9-dependent and Cas9-independent off-target effects than traditional adenine base editors. Moreover, we utilized ABEmax-e18 to establish syndactyly mouse models and achieve accurate base conversion at human PCSK9 locus in HepG2 cells which exhibited its potential in genetic therapy. Furthermore, a truncated version of base editors-RING (ABEmax-RING or AncBE4max-RING), which fusing the 63 amino acids of e18 protein RING domain to the C terminal of ABEmax or AncBE4max, exhibited similar effect compared to ABEmax-e18 or AncBE4max-e18.In summary, the e18 or RING protein fused with base editors strengthens the precise toolbox in gene modification and maybe works well with various base editing tools with a more applicable to precise genetic therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziru Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Hongming Yuan
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China; Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China.
| | - Lin Yang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Lerong Ma
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Yuanzhu Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Jiacheng Deng
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xueyuan Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Wenyu Xiao
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Zhanjun Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Jiazhang Qiu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Hongsheng Ouyang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China; Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China.
| | - Daxin Pang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Chongqing Research Institute, Jilin University, Chongqing 401123, China; Chongqing Jitang Biotechnology Research Institute, Chongqing 401123, China.
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8
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Hasselbeck S, Cheng X. Molecular Marvels: Small Molecules Paving the Way for Enhanced Gene Therapy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 17:41. [PMID: 38256875 PMCID: PMC10818943 DOI: 10.3390/ph17010041] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In the rapidly evolving landscape of genetic engineering, the advent of CRISPR-Cas technologies has catalyzed a paradigm shift, empowering scientists to manipulate the genetic code with unprecedented accuracy and efficiency. Despite the remarkable capabilities inherent to CRISPR-Cas systems, recent advancements have witnessed the integration of small molecules to augment their functionality, introducing new dimensions to the precision and versatility of gene editing applications. This review delves into the synergy between CRISPR-Cas technologies based specifically on Cas9 and small-molecule drugs, elucidating the pivotal role of chemicals in optimizing target specificity and editing efficiency. By examining a diverse array of applications, ranging from therapeutic interventions to agricultural advancements, we explore how the judicious use of chemicals enhances the precision of CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genetic modifications. In this review, we emphasize the significance of small-molecule drugs in fine-tuning the CRISPR-Cas9 machinery, which allows researchers to exert meticulous control over the editing process. We delve into the mechanisms through which these chemicals bolster target specificity, mitigate off-target effects, and contribute to the overall refinement of gene editing outcomes. Additionally, we discuss the potential of chemical integration in expanding the scope of CRISPR-Cas9 technologies, enabling tailored solutions for diverse genetic manipulation challenges. As CRISPR-Cas9 technologies continue to evolve, the integration of small-molecule drugs emerges as a crucial avenue for advancing the precision and applicability of gene editing techniques. This review not only synthesizes current knowledge but also highlights future prospects, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the synergistic interplay between CRISPR-Cas9 systems and chemical modulators in the pursuit of more controlled and efficient genetic modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Hasselbeck
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Xinlai Cheng
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Xu Y, Wang Y, Liang FS. Site-Specific m 6 A Erasing via Conditionally Stabilized CRISPR-Cas13b Editor. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202309291. [PMID: 37713087 PMCID: PMC10592254 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202309291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6 A) on RNAs plays an important role in regulating various biological processes and CRIPSR technology has been employed for programmable m6 A editing. However, the bulky size of CRISPR protein and constitutively expressed CRISPR/RNA editing enzymes can interfere with the native function of target RNAs and cells. Herein, we reported a conditional m6 A editing platform (FKBP*-dCas13b-ALK) based on a ligand stabilized dCas13 editor. The inducible expression of this m6 A editing system was achieved by adding or removing the Shield-1 molecule. We further demonstrated that the targeted recruitment of dCas13b-m6 A eraser fusion protein and site-specific m6 A erasing were achieved under the control of Shield-1. Moreover, the release and degradation of dCas13b fusion protein occurred faster than the restoration of m6 A on the target RNAs after Shield-1 removal, which provides an ideal opportunity to study the m6 A function with minimal steric interference from bulky dCas13b fusion protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xu
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve Universit, 2080 Adelbert Rd, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Yufan Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve Universit, 2080 Adelbert Rd, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Fu-Sen Liang
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve Universit, 2080 Adelbert Rd, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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10
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Kulkarni A, Tanga S, Karmakar A, Hota A, Maji B. CRISPR-Based Precision Molecular Diagnostics for Disease Detection and Surveillance. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:3927-3945. [PMID: 37788375 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Sensitive, rapid, and portable molecular diagnostics is the future of disease surveillance, containment, and therapy. The recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has reminded us of the vulnerability of lives from ever-evolving pathogens. At the same time, it has provided opportunities to bridge the gap by translating basic molecular biology into therapeutic tools. One such molecular biology technique is CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat) which has revolutionized the field of molecular diagnostics at the need of the hour. The use of CRISPR-Cas systems has been widespread in biology research due to the ease of performing genetic manipulations. In 2012, CRISPR-Cas systems were, for the first time, shown to be reprogrammable, i.e., capable of performing sequence-specific gene editing. This discovery catapulted the field of CRISPR-Cas research and opened many unexplored avenues in the field of gene editing, from basic research to therapeutics. One such field that benefitted greatly from this discovery was molecular diagnostics, as using CRISPR-Cas technologies enabled existing diagnostic methods to become more sensitive, accurate, and portable, a necessity in disease control. This Review aims to capture some of the trajectories and advances made in this arena and provides a comprehensive understanding of the methods and their potential use as point-of-care diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshara Kulkarni
- Ashoka University, Department of Biology, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana 131029, India
| | - Sadiya Tanga
- Ashoka University, Department of Chemistry, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana 131029, India
| | - Arkadeep Karmakar
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN Block, Sector V, Kolkata 700091, West Bengal, India
| | - Arpita Hota
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN Block, Sector V, Kolkata 700091, West Bengal, India
| | - Basudeb Maji
- Ashoka University, Department of Biology, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana 131029, India
- Ashoka University, Department of Chemistry, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana 131029, India
- Bose Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, EN Block, Sector V, Kolkata 700091, West Bengal, India
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11
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Wei CT, Popp NA, Peleg O, Powell RL, Borenstein E, Maly DJ, Fowler DM. A chemically controlled Cas9 switch enables temporal modulation of diverse effectors. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:981-991. [PMID: 36879061 PMCID: PMC10480357 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01278-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 has yielded a plethora of effectors, including targeted transcriptional activators, base editors and prime editors. Current approaches for inducibly modulating Cas9 activity lack temporal precision and require extensive screening and optimization. We describe a versatile, chemically controlled and rapidly activated single-component DNA-binding Cas9 switch, ciCas9, which we use to confer temporal control over seven Cas9 effectors, including two cytidine base editors, two adenine base editors, a dual base editor, a prime editor and a transcriptional activator. Using these temporally controlled effectors, we analyze base editing kinetics, showing that editing occurs within hours and that rapid early editing of nucleotides predicts eventual editing magnitude. We also reveal that editing at preferred nucleotides within target sites increases the frequency of bystander edits. Thus, the ciCas9 switch offers a simple, versatile approach to generating chemically controlled Cas9 effectors, informing future effector engineering and enabling precise temporal effector control for kinetic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy T Wei
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas A Popp
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Omri Peleg
- The Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rachel L Powell
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elhanan Borenstein
- The Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM, USA
| | - Dustin J Maly
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Douglas M Fowler
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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12
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Yuan T, Tang H, Xu X, Shao J, Wu G, Cho YC, Ping Y, Liang G. Inflammation conditional genome editing mediated by the CRISPR-Cas9 system. iScience 2023; 26:106872. [PMID: 37260750 PMCID: PMC10227425 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The specificity of CRISPR-Cas9 in response to particular pathological stimuli remains largely unexplored. Hence, we designed an inflammation-inducible CRISPR-Cas9 system by grafting a sequence that binds with NF-κB to the CRISPR-Cas9 framework, termed NBS-CRISPR. The genetic scissor function of this developed genome-editing tool is activated on encountering an inflammatory attack and is inactivated or minimized in non-inflammation conditions. Furthermore, we employed this platform to reverse inflammatory conditions by targeting the MyD88 gene, a crucial player in the NF-κB signaling pathway, and achieved impressive therapeutic effects. Finally, during inflammation, P65 (RELA) can translocate to the nucleus from the cytoplasm. Herein, to avoid Cas9 leaky DNA cleavage activity i, we constructed an NBS-P65-CRISPR system expressing the Cas9-p65 fusion protein. Our inflammation inducible Cas9-mediated genome editing strategy provides new perspectives and avenues for pathological gene interrogation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Honglin Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiaojie Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jingjing Shao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Gaojun Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Young-Chang Cho
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Yuan Ping
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Guang Liang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
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13
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Noviello G, Gjaltema RAF, Schulz EG. CasTuner is a degron and CRISPR/Cas-based toolkit for analog tuning of endogenous gene expression. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3225. [PMID: 37270532 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38909-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Certain cellular processes are dose-dependent, requiring specific quantities or stoichiometries of gene products, as exemplified by haploinsufficiency and sex-chromosome dosage compensation. Understanding dosage-sensitive processes requires tools to quantitatively modulate protein abundance. Here we present CasTuner, a CRISPR-based toolkit for analog tuning of endogenous gene expression. The system exploits Cas-derived repressors that are quantitatively tuned by ligand titration through a FKBP12F36V degron domain. CasTuner can be applied at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level using a histone deacetylase (hHDAC4) fused to dCas9, or the RNA-targeting CasRx, respectively. We demonstrate analog tuning of gene expression homogeneously across cells in mouse and human cells, as opposed to KRAB-dependent CRISPR-interference systems, which exhibit digital repression. Finally, we quantify the system's dynamics and use it to measure dose-response relationships of NANOG and OCT4 with their target genes and with the cellular phenotype. CasTuner thus provides an easy-to-implement tool to study dose-responsive processes in their physiological context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Noviello
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rutger A F Gjaltema
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Edda G Schulz
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany.
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14
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Kong X, Zhang H, Li G, Wang Z, Kong X, Wang L, Xue M, Zhang W, Wang Y, Lin J, Zhou J, Shen X, Wei Y, Zhong N, Bai W, Yuan Y, Shi L, Zhou Y, Yang H. Engineered CRISPR-OsCas12f1 and RhCas12f1 with robust activities and expanded target range for genome editing. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2046. [PMID: 37041195 PMCID: PMC10090079 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37829-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The type V-F CRISPR-Cas12f system is a strong candidate for therapeutic applications due to the compact size of the Cas12f proteins. In this work, we identify six uncharacterized Cas12f1 proteins with nuclease activity in mammalian cells from assembled bacterial genomes. Among them, OsCas12f1 (433 aa) from Oscillibacter sp. and RhCas12f1 (415 aa) from Ruminiclostridium herbifermentans, which respectively target 5' T-rich Protospacer Adjacent Motifs (PAMs) and 5' C-rich PAMs, show the highest editing activity. Through protein and sgRNA engineering, we generate enhanced OsCas12f1 (enOsCas12f1) and enRhCas12f1 variants, with 5'-TTN and 5'-CCD (D = not C) PAMs respectively, exhibiting much higher editing efficiency and broader PAMs, compared with the engineered variant Un1Cas12f1 (Un1Cas12f1_ge4.1). Furthermore, by fusing the destabilized domain with enOsCas12f1, we generate inducible-enOsCas12f1 and demonstate its activity in vivo by single adeno-associated virus delivery. Finally, dead enOsCas12f1-based epigenetic editing and gene activation can also be achieved in mammalian cells. This study thus provides compact gene editing tools for basic research with remarkable promise for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfeng Kong
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Hainan Zhang
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Guoling Li
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Zikang Wang
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Xuqiang Kong
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Lecong Wang
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Mingxing Xue
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Weihong Zhang
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Yao Wang
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Jiajia Lin
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jingxing Zhou
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Xiaowen Shen
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Yinghui Wei
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Na Zhong
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Weiya Bai
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Linyu Shi
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Yingsi Zhou
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China.
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China.
| | - Hui Yang
- HUIEDIT Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China.
- HUIDAGENE Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 200131, China.
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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15
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Allemailem KS, Almatroodi SA, Almatroudi A, Alrumaihi F, Al Abdulmonem W, Al-Megrin WAI, Aljamaan AN, Rahmani AH, Khan AA. Recent Advances in Genome-Editing Technology with CRISPR/Cas9 Variants and Stimuli-Responsive Targeting Approaches within Tumor Cells: A Future Perspective of Cancer Management. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7052. [PMID: 37108214 PMCID: PMC10139162 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The innovative advances in transforming clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) into different variants have taken the art of genome-editing specificity to new heights. Allosteric modulation of Cas9-targeting specificity by sgRNA sequence alterations and protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) modifications have been a good lesson to learn about specificity and activity scores in different Cas9 variants. Some of the high-fidelity Cas9 variants have been ranked as Sniper-Cas9, eSpCas9 (1.1), SpCas9-HF1, HypaCas9, xCas9, and evoCas9. However, the selection of an ideal Cas9 variant for a given target sequence remains a challenging task. A safe and efficient delivery system for the CRISPR/Cas9 complex at tumor target sites faces considerable challenges, and nanotechnology-based stimuli-responsive delivery approaches have significantly contributed to cancer management. Recent innovations in nanoformulation design, such as pH, glutathione (GSH), photo, thermal, and magnetic responsive systems, have modernized the art of CRISPR/Cas9 delivery approaches. These nanoformulations possess enhanced cellular internalization, endosomal membrane disruption/bypass, and controlled release. In this review, we aim to elaborate on different CRISPR/Cas9 variants and advances in stimuli-responsive nanoformulations for the specific delivery of this endonuclease system. Furthermore, the critical constraints of this endonuclease system on clinical translations towards the management of cancer and prospects are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled S. Allemailem
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A. Almatroodi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Almatroudi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris Alrumaihi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al Abdulmonem
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafa Abdullah I. Al-Megrin
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Arshad Husain Rahmani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad Ali Khan
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Sreekanth V, Jan M, Zhao KT, Lim D, Davis JR, McConkey M, Kovalcik V, Barkal S, Law BK, Fife J, Tian R, Vinyard ME, Becerra B, Kampmann M, Sherwood RI, Pinello L, Liu DR, Ebert BL, Choudhary A. A molecular glue approach to control the half-life of CRISPR-based technologies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.12.531757. [PMID: 36945568 PMCID: PMC10028966 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.12.531757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Cas9 is a programmable nuclease that has furnished transformative technologies, including base editors and transcription modulators (e.g., CRISPRi/a), but several applications of these technologies, including therapeutics, mandatorily require precision control of their half-life. For example, such control can help avert any potential immunological and adverse events in clinical trials. Current genome editing technologies to control the half-life of Cas9 are slow, have lower activity, involve fusion of large response elements (> 230 amino acids), utilize expensive controllers with poor pharmacological attributes, and cannot be implemented in vivo on several CRISPR-based technologies. We report a general platform for half-life control using the molecular glue, pomalidomide, that binds to a ubiquitin ligase complex and a response-element bearing CRISPR-based technology, thereby causing the latter's rapid ubiquitination and degradation. Using pomalidomide, we were able to control the half-life of large CRISPR-based technologies (e.g., base editors, CRISPRi) and small anti-CRISPRs that inhibit such technologies, allowing us to build the first examples of on-switch for base editors. The ability to switch on, fine-tune and switch-off CRISPR-based technologies with pomalidomide allowed complete control over their activity, specificity, and genome editing outcome. Importantly, the miniature size of the response element and favorable pharmacological attributes of the drug pomalidomide allowed control of activity of base editor in vivo using AAV as the delivery vehicle. These studies provide methods and reagents to precisely control the dosage and half-life of CRISPR-based technologies, propelling their therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vedagopuram Sreekanth
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Max Jan
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kevin T. Zhao
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Donghyun Lim
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jessie R. Davis
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marie McConkey
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Veronica Kovalcik
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Sam Barkal
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Benjamin K. Law
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - James Fife
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ruilin Tian
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Michael E. Vinyard
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Basheer Becerra
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Martin Kampmann
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Richard I. Sherwood
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Hubrecht Institute for Developmental Biology and Stem Cell Research, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luca Pinello
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David R. Liu
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin L. Ebert
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Amit Choudhary
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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17
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Cai W, Liu J, Chen X, Mao L, Wang M. Orthogonal Chemical Activation of Enzyme-Inducible CRISPR/Cas9 for Cell-Selective Genome Editing. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:22272-22280. [PMID: 36367552 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c10545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The precision and therapeutic potential of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing are greatly challenged by the less control over Cas9-mediated DNA cleavage. Herein, we introduce a conditional and cell-selective genome editing system controlled by disease-associated enzymes, termed enzyme-inducible CRISPR (eiCRISPR). eiCRISPR comprises Cas9 protein, a self-blocked inactive single-guide RNA (bsgRNA), and a chemically caged deoxyribozyme (DNAzyme) that activates bsgRNA and eiCRISPR in a controllable manner. We design chemical modifications of DNAzyme to suppress its ability to cleave the blocking region of bsgRNA, while the decaging of DNAzyme triggered by the tumor cell-overexpressed enzyme, for instance, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1), restores the activity of bsgRNA and switches on eiCRISPR selectively for genome editing in cancer cells. Moreover, using a biodegradable lipid nanoparticle to deliver eiCRISPR in a tumor-bearing xenograft, we show that the in vivo activation of eiCRISPR enables the editing of human papillomavirus 18 E6 for potential cancer therapy. The strategy of postsynthetic and site-specific modification of DNAzyme is compatible with endogenous chemistries for regulating eiCRISPR for cell-selective genome editing and targeted gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Cai
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ji Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xianghan Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lanqun Mao
- College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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18
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Nakahara E, Mullapudi V, Collier GE, Joachimiak LA, Hulleman JD. Development of a New DHFR-Based Destabilizing Domain with Enhanced Basal Turnover and Applicability in Mammalian Systems. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:2877-2889. [PMID: 36122928 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Destabilizing domains (DDs) are an attractive strategy allowing for positive post-transcriptional small molecule-regulatable control of a fusion protein's abundance. However, in many instances, the currently available DDs suffer from higher-than-desirable basal levels of the fusion protein. Accordingly, we redesigned the E. coli dihydrofolate reductase (ecDHFR) DD by introducing a library of ∼1200 random ecDHFR mutants fused to YFP into CHO cells. Following successive rounds of fluorescence-activated cell sorting, we identified six new ecDHFR DD clones with significantly enhanced proteasomal turnover in the absence of a stabilizing ligand, trimethoprim (TMP). One of these clones, designated as "C12", contained four unique missense mutations (W74R/T113S/E120D/Q146L) and demonstrated a significant 2.9-fold reduction in basal levels compared to the conventional ecDHFR DD (i.e., R12Y/G67S/Y100I). This domain was similarly responsive to TMP with respect to dose response and maximal stabilization, indicating an overall enhanced dynamic range. Interestingly, both computational and wet-lab experiments identified the W74R and T113S mutations of C12 as the main contributors toward its basal destabilization. However, the combination of all the C12 mutations was required to maintain both its enhanced degradation and TMP stabilization. We further demonstrate the utility of C12 by fusing it to IκBα and Nrf2, two stress-responsive proteins that have previously been challenging to regulate. In both instances, C12 significantly enhanced the basal turnover of these proteins and improved the dynamic range of regulation post stabilizer addition. These advantageous features of the C12 ecDHFR DD variant highlight its potential for replacing the conventional N-terminal ecDHFR DD and improving the use of DDs overall, not only as a chemical biology tool but for gene therapy avenues as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Nakahara
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Vishruth Mullapudi
- Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, O'Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Gracen E Collier
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Lukasz A Joachimiak
- Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, O'Donnell Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - John D Hulleman
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
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19
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Shin S, Jang S, Lim D. Small Molecules for Enhancing the Precision and Safety of Genome Editing. Molecules 2022; 27:6266. [PMID: 36234804 PMCID: PMC9573751 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27196266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based genome-editing technologies have revolutionized biology, biotechnology, and medicine, and have spurred the development of new therapeutic modalities. However, there remain several barriers to the safe use of CRISPR technologies, such as unintended off-target DNA cleavages. Small molecules are important resources to solve these problems, given their facile delivery and fast action to enable temporal control of the CRISPR systems. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of small molecules that can precisely modulate CRISPR-associated (Cas) nucleases and guide RNAs (gRNAs). We also discuss the small-molecule control of emerging genome editors (e.g., base editors) and anti-CRISPR proteins. These molecules could be used for the precise investigation of biological systems and the development of safer therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyoon Shin
- School of Biopharmaceutical and Medical Sciences, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
- Department of Next-Generation Applied Science, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
| | - Seeun Jang
- School of Biopharmaceutical and Medical Sciences, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
- Department of Next-Generation Applied Science, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
| | - Donghyun Lim
- School of Biopharmaceutical and Medical Sciences, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
- Department of Next-Generation Applied Science, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
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20
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Feng Z, Ducos B, Scerbo P, Aujard I, Jullien L, Bensimon D. The Development and Application of Opto-Chemical Tools in the Zebrafish. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27196231. [PMID: 36234767 PMCID: PMC9572478 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27196231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish is one of the most widely adopted animal models in both basic and translational research. This popularity of the zebrafish results from several advantages such as a high degree of similarity to the human genome, the ease of genetic and chemical perturbations, external fertilization with high fecundity, transparent and fast-developing embryos, and relatively low cost-effective maintenance. In particular, body translucency is a unique feature of zebrafish that is not adequately obtained with other vertebrate organisms. The animal’s distinctive optical clarity and small size therefore make it a successful model for optical modulation and observation. Furthermore, the convenience of microinjection and high embryonic permeability readily allow for efficient delivery of large and small molecules into live animals. Finally, the numerous number of siblings obtained from a single pair of animals offers large replicates and improved statistical analysis of the results. In this review, we describe the development of opto-chemical tools based on various strategies that control biological activities with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution. We also discuss the reported applications of these tools in zebrafish and highlight the current challenges and future possibilities of opto-chemical approaches, particularly at the single cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiping Feng
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (D.B.)
| | - Bertrand Ducos
- Laboratoire de Physique de l’Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences Letters University, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 24 Rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
- High Throughput qPCR Core Facility, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences Letters University, 46 Rue d’Ulm, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Pierluigi Scerbo
- Laboratoire de Physique de l’Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences Letters University, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 24 Rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
- Inovarion, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Aujard
- Laboratoire PASTEUR, Département de Chimie, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences Letters University, Sorbonne Université, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 24 Rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Jullien
- Laboratoire PASTEUR, Département de Chimie, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences Letters University, Sorbonne Université, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 24 Rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
| | - David Bensimon
- Laboratoire de Physique de l’Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences Letters University, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 24 Rue Lhomond, 75005 Paris, France
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: (Z.F.); (D.B.)
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21
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Liu B, Dong X, Cheng H, Zheng C, Chen Z, Rodríguez TC, Liang SQ, Xue W, Sontheimer EJ. A split prime editor with untethered reverse transcriptase and circular RNA template. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:1388-1393. [PMID: 35379962 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-022-01255-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Delivery and optimization of prime editors (PEs) have been hampered by their large size and complexity. Although split versions of genome-editing tools can reduce construct size, they require special engineering to tether the binding and catalytic domains. Here we report a split PE (sPE) in which the Cas9 nickase (nCas9) remains untethered from the reverse transcriptase (RT). The sPE showed similar efficiencies in installing precise edits as the parental unsplit PE3 and no increase in insertion-deletion (indel) byproducts. Delivery of sPE to the mouse liver with hydrodynamic injection to modify β-catenin drove tumor formation with similar efficiency as PE3. Delivery with two adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors corrected the disease-causing mutation in a mouse model of type I tyrosinemia. Similarly, prime editing guide RNAs (pegRNAs) can be split into a single guide RNA (sgRNA) and a circular RNA RT template to increase flexibility and stability. Compared to previous sPEs, ours lacks inteins, protein-protein affinity modules and nuclease-sensitive pegRNA extensions, which increase construct complexity and might reduce efficiency. Our modular system will facilitate the delivery and optimization of PEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Xiaolong Dong
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Haoyang Cheng
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Zexiang Chen
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Tomás C Rodríguez
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Shun-Qing Liang
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Wen Xue
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Erik J Sontheimer
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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22
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Ji H, Xiong W, Zhang K, Tian T, Zhou X. Hydrogen Peroxide-triggered Chemical Strategy for Controlling CRISPR systems. Chem Asian J 2022; 17:e202200214. [PMID: 35483968 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202200214] [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: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The function of the CRISPR system can be conditionally controlled through rationally guided RNA engineering such that the target sequences can be precisely selected and manipulated. In particular, gRNA, as an important component of the CRISPR system, provides a unique tool for multifunctional control of the system based on the structure of the RNA itself. Therefore, we introduced here a protective group on the 2'-OH position of RNA to inhibit RNA-guided nucleic acid cleavage. Next, the modified gRNA can restore its original function under the chemical stimulation of hydrogen peroxide to realize the control of the CRISPR system. The experiment result demonstrated that the operating mechanism of this strategy may be based on chemical modifications that reduce the number of complementary base pairs between RNAs and targets, and the RNA-protein interaction. This further enriches the toolbox of conditional control of CRISPR function and has broad potential for gene editing in living cells and disease treatment using endogenous hydrogen peroxide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Ji
- The Institute of Molecular Medicine, Wuhan University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Wei Xiong
- The Institute of Molecular Medicine, Wuhan University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Kaisong Zhang
- The Institute of Molecular Medicine, Wuhan University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Tian Tian
- The Institute of Molecular Medicine, Wuhan University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- The Institute of Molecular Medicine, Wuhan University People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan University, 430072, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
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23
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Bi Z, Li X, Ren M, Gu Y, Zhu T, Li S, Wang G, Sun S, Sun Y, Liu Z. Development and transdifferentiation into inner hair cells require Tbx2. Natl Sci Rev 2022; 9:nwac156. [PMID: 36687561 PMCID: PMC9844247 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwac156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Atoh1 is essential for the development of both outer hair cells (OHCs) and inner hair cells (IHCs) in the mammalian cochlea. Whereas Ikzf2 is necessary for OHC development, the key gene required for IHC development remains unknown. We found that deletion of Tbx2 in neonatal IHCs led to their transdifferentiation into OHCs by repressing 26.7% of IHC genes and inducing 56.3% of OHC genes, including Ikzf2. More importantly, persistent expression of Tbx2 coupled with transient Atoh1 expression effectively reprogrammed non-sensory supporting cells into new IHCs expressing the functional IHC marker vGlut3. The differentiation status of these new IHCs was considerably more advanced than that previously reported. Thus, Tbx2 is essential for IHC development and co-upregulation of Tbx2 with Atoh1 in supporting cells represents a new approach for treating deafness related to IHC degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yunpeng Gu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tong Zhu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Shuting Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guangqin Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Suhong Sun
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuwei Sun
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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24
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Peng H, Ramadurgum P, Woodard DR, Daniel S, Nakahara E, Renwick M, Aredo B, Datta S, Chen B, Ufret-Vincenty R, Hulleman JD. Utility of the DHFR-based destabilizing domain across mouse models of retinal degeneration and aging. iScience 2022; 25:104206. [PMID: 35521529 PMCID: PMC9062244 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) destabilizing domain (DD) serves as a promising approach to conditionally regulate protein abundance in a variety of tissues. To test whether this approach could be effectively applied to a wide variety of aged and disease-related ocular mouse models, we evaluated the DHFR DD system in the eyes of aged mice (up to 24 months), a light-induced retinal degeneration (LIRD) model, and two genetic models of retinal degeneration (rd2 and Abca4−/− mice). The DHFR DD was effectively degraded in all model systems, including rd2 mice, which showed significant defects in chymotrypsin proteasomal activity. Moreover, trimethoprim (TMP) administration stabilized the DHFR DD in all mouse models. Thus, the DHFR DD-based approach allows for control of protein abundance in a variety of mouse models, laying the foundation to use this strategy for the conditional control of gene therapies to potentially treat multiple eye diseases. Destabilizing domains (DDs) confer conditional control of ocular protein abundance The DHFR DD is effectively turned over and stabilized in aged mouse’s retina DHFR DDs perform well in environmental and genetic retinal degenerative models
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25
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Cui YR, Wang SJ, Ma T, Yu P, Chen J, Guo T, Meng G, Jiang B, Dong J, Liu J. KPT330 improves Cas9 precision genome- and base-editing by selectively regulating mRNA nuclear export. Commun Biol 2022; 5:237. [PMID: 35301428 PMCID: PMC8931069 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03188-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-based genome engineering tools are associated with off-target effects that constitutively active Cas9 protein may instigate. Previous studies have revealed the feasibility of modulating Cas9-based genome- and base-editing tools using protein or small-molecule CRISPR inhibitors. Here we screened a set of small molecule compounds with irreversible warhead, aiming to identifying small-molecule modulators of CRISPR-Cas9. It was found that selective inhibitors of nuclear export (SINEs) could efficiently inhibit the cellular activity of Cas9 in the form of genome-, base- and prime-editing tools. Interestingly, SINEs did not function as direct inhibitors to Cas9, but modulated Cas9 activities by interfering with the nuclear export process of Cas9 mRNA. Thus, to the best of our knowledge, SINEs represent the first reported indirect, irreversible inhibitors of CRISPR-Cas9. Most importantly, an FDA-approved anticancer drug KPT330, along with other examined SINEs, could improve the specificities of CRISPR-Cas9-based genome- and base editing tools in human cells. Our study expands the toolbox of CRISPR modulating elements and provides a feasible approach to improving the specificity of CRISPR-Cas9-based genome engineering tools. The FDA-approved anti-cancer drug, KPT330, can indirectly inhibit Cas9 by interfering with Cas9 mRNA nuclear export and help reduce off-target editing in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ru Cui
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao-Jie Wang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China
| | - Tiancheng Ma
- Key Laboratory of Organofluorine Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Ling-Ling Road, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Peihong Yu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Taijie Guo
- Key Laboratory of Organofluorine Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Ling-Ling Road, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Genyi Meng
- Key Laboratory of Organofluorine Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Ling-Ling Road, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Biao Jiang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajia Dong
- Key Laboratory of Organofluorine Chemistry, Center for Excellence in Molecular Synthesis, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Ling-Ling Road, 200032, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jia Liu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China. .,Shanghai Clinical Research and Trial Center, 201210, Shanghai, China. .,Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China. .,Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, No. 9 XingDaoHuanBei Road, 510005, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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26
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Liu X, Kang X, Lei C, Ren W, Liu C. Programming the trans-cleavage Activity of CRISPR-Cas13a by Single-Strand DNA Blocker and Its Biosensing Application. Anal Chem 2022; 94:3987-3996. [PMID: 35193353 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c05124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The precise and controllable programming of the trans-cleavage activity of the CRISPR-Cas13a systems is significant but challenging for fabricating high-performance biosensing systems toward various kinds of biomolecule targets. In this work, we have demonstrated that under a critical low Mg2+ concentration, a simple and short single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) probe free of any modification can efficiently prevent the assembly of crRNA and LwaCas13a only by partially binding with the crRNA repeat region, thereby blocking the trans-cleavage activity of the LwaCas13a system. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that the blocked trans-cleavage activity of the LwaCas13a system can be recovered by various kinds of biologically important substances as long as they could specifically release the blocker DNA from the crRNA in a target-responsive manner, providing a facile route for the quantification of diverse biomarkers such as enzymes, antigens/proteins, and exosomes. To the best of our knowledge, this is reported for the first time that a simple ssDNA can be employed as the switch element to control the crRNA structure and regulate the trans-cleavage activity of Cas13a, which has enriched the CRISPR-Cas13a sensing toolbox and will greatly expand its application scope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Liu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province; School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, Shaanxi, P. R. China
| | - Xinyue Kang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province; School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, Shaanxi, P. R. China
| | - Chao Lei
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province; School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, Shaanxi, P. R. China
| | - Wei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province; School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, Shaanxi, P. R. China
| | - Chenghui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education; Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science of Shaanxi Province; School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, Shaanxi, P. R. China
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27
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Zhao J, Hu H, Zhang J, Li Y, Wang L, Zhou H, Wang R. Endogenous hydrogen peroxide can efficiently regulate CRISPR-Cas9 based gene editing. NEW J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d1nj04203c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We report controllable gene editing tools for the CRISPR-Cas9 system via genetic code expansion triggered by oxidative small molecule H2O2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jizhong Zhao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Hongmei Hu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Li Wang
- Wuhan No. 1 Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Hongling Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
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28
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Kropocheva EV, Lisitskaya LA, Agapov AA, Musabirov AA, Kulbachinskiy AV, Esyunina DM. Prokaryotic Argonaute Proteins as a Tool for Biotechnology. Mol Biol 2022; 56:854-873. [PMID: 36060308 PMCID: PMC9427165 DOI: 10.1134/s0026893322060103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Programmable nucleases are the most important tool for manipulating the genes and genomes of both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Since the end of the 20th century, many approaches were developed for specific modification of the genome. The review briefly considers the advantages and disadvantages of the main genetic editors known to date. The main attention is paid to programmable nucleases from the family of prokaryotic Argonaute proteins. Argonaute proteins can recognize and cleave DNA sequences using small complementary guide molecules and play an important role in protecting prokaryotic cells from invading DNA. Argonaute proteins have already found applications in biotechnology for targeted cleavage and detection of nucleic acids and can potentially be used for genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. V. Kropocheva
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - L. A. Lisitskaya
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - A. A. Agapov
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - A. A. Musabirov
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - A. V. Kulbachinskiy
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - D. M. Esyunina
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute”, 123182 Moscow, Russia
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29
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Grunwald HA, Weitzel AJ, Cooper KL. Applications of and considerations for using CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene conversion systems in rodents. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:3-14. [PMID: 34949863 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-021-00646-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Genetic elements that are inherited at super-Mendelian frequencies could be used in a 'gene drive' to spread an allele to high prevalence in a population with the goal of eliminating invasive species or disease vectors. We recently demonstrated that the gene conversion mechanism underlying a CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene drive is feasible in mice. Although substantial technical hurdles remain, overcoming these could lead to strategies that might decrease the spread of rodent-borne Lyme disease or eliminate invasive populations of mice and rats that devastate island ecology. Perhaps more immediately achievable at moderate gene conversion efficiency, applications in a laboratory setting could produce complex genotypes that reduce the time and cost in both dollars and animal lives compared with Mendelian inheritance strategies. Here, we discuss what we have learned from early efforts to achieve CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene conversion, potential for broader applications in the laboratory, current limitations, and plans for optimizing this potentially powerful technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah A Grunwald
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexander J Weitzel
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kimberly L Cooper
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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30
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Wang Y, Wang H, Jian Y, Luo Z, Shao H, Zhang W. Strategies for optimization of the CRISPR-based genome editing system for enhanced editing specificity. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 33:358-370. [PMID: 34963339 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system is inarguably the most valuable gene editing tool ever discovered. Currently, three classes of CRISPR-based genome editing systems have been developed for gene editing, including CRISPR/Cas nucleases, base editors (BEs) and prime editors (PEs). Ever-evolving CRISPR technology plays an important role in medicine; however, the biggest obstacle to its use in clinical practice is the induction of off-target effects (OTEs) during targeted editing. Therefore, continuous improvement and optimization of the CRISPR system for reduction of OTEs is a major focus in the field of CRISPR research. This review aims to provide a comprehensive guide for optimization of the CRISPR-based genome editing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangmin Wang
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 71237, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China;
| | - Haozheng Wang
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 71237, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China;
| | - Yingzhen Jian
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 71237, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China;
| | - Zhongtao Luo
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 71237, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China;
| | - Hongwei Shao
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 71237, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China;
| | - Wenfeng Zhang
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 71237, School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics , 28 E. Rd outside the City of Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China, 510006;
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31
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Yan X, Pan Q, Xin H, Chen Y, Ping Y. Genome-editing prodrug: Targeted delivery and conditional stabilization of CRISPR-Cas9 for precision therapy of inflammatory disease. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabj0624. [PMID: 34878850 PMCID: PMC8654308 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj0624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of CRISPR-Cas9 functions in vivo is conducive to developing precise therapeutic genome editing. Here, we report a CRISPR-Cas9 prodrug nanosystem (termed NanoProCas9), which combines the targeted delivery and the conditional activation of CRISPR-Cas9 for the precision therapy of inflammatory bowel disease. NanoProCas9 is composed of (i) cationic poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE) capable of complexing plasmid DNA encoding destabilized Cas9 (dsCas9) nuclease, (ii) a layer of biomimetic cell membrane coated on PBAE/plasmid nanocomplexes for the targeted delivery of PBAE/dsCas9 complexes, and (iii) the stimuli-responsive precursory molecules anchored on the exofacial membrane. The systemic administration of NanoProCas9 enables the targeted delivery of dsCas9 plasmid into inflammatory lesions, where the precursory small molecule can be activated by ROS signals to stabilize expressed dsCas9, thereby activating Cas9 function for inflammatory genome editing. The proposed “genome-editing prodrug” presents a proof-of-concept example to precisely regulate CRISPR-Cas9 functions by virtue of particular pathological stimuli in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Yan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qi Pan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Huhu Xin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yuxuan Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yuan Ping
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou 311121, China
- Corresponding author.
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32
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van Essen M, Riepsaame J, Jacob J. CRISPR-Cas Gene Perturbation and Editing in Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. CRISPR J 2021; 4:634-655. [PMID: 34582693 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2021.0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Directing the fates of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) to generate a multitude of differentiated cell types allows the study of the genetic regulation of human development and disease. The translational potential of hPSC is maximized by exploiting CRISPR to silence or activate genes with spatial and temporal precision permanently or reversibly. Here, we summarize the increasingly refined and diverse CRISPR toolkit for the latter forms of gene perturbation in hPSC and their downstream applications. We discuss newer methods to install edits efficiently with single nucleotide resolution and describe pooled CRISPR screens as a powerful means of unbiased discovery of genes associated with a phenotype of interest. Last, we discuss the potential of these combined technologies in the treatment of hitherto intractable human diseases and the challenges to their implementation in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max van Essen
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; and University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joey Riepsaame
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - John Jacob
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom; and University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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33
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Zhuo C, Zhang J, Lee JH, Jiao J, Cheng D, Liu L, Kim HW, Tao Y, Li M. Spatiotemporal control of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:238. [PMID: 34148061 PMCID: PMC8214627 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00645-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) gene editing technology, as a revolutionary breakthrough in genetic engineering, offers a promising platform to improve the treatment of various genetic and infectious diseases because of its simple design and powerful ability to edit different loci simultaneously. However, failure to conduct precise gene editing in specific tissues or cells within a certain time may result in undesirable consequences, such as serious off-target effects, representing a critical challenge for the clinical translation of the technology. Recently, some emerging strategies using genetic regulation, chemical and physical strategies to regulate the activity of CRISPR/Cas9 have shown promising results in the improvement of spatiotemporal controllability. Herein, in this review, we first summarize the latest progress of these advanced strategies involving cell-specific promoters, small-molecule activation and inhibition, bioresponsive delivery carriers, and optical/thermal/ultrasonic/magnetic activation. Next, we highlight the advantages and disadvantages of various strategies and discuss their obstacles and limitations in clinical translation. Finally, we propose viewpoints on directions that can be explored to further improve the spatiotemporal operability of CRISPR/Cas9.
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Grants
- the Guangdong Province Science and Technology Innovation Special Fund (International Scientific Cooperation, 2018A050506035), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (51903256).
- the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2016YFE0117100), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (21875289 and U1501243), the Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Innovation Project (2016A050503026), the Major Project on the Integration of Industry, Education and Research of Guangzhou City (201704030123), the Science and Technology Program of Guangzhou (201704020016), the Guangdong Innovative and Entrepreneurial Research Team Program (2013S086)
- National Research Foundation, Republic of Korea (2015K1A1A2032163, 2018K1A4A3A01064257, 2018R1A2B3003446)
- the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2019YFA0111300, 2016YFE0117100), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (21907113), the Guangdong Provincial Pearl River Talents Program (2019QN01Y131), the Thousand Talents Plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenya Zhuo
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, Center for Nanomedicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiabin Zhang
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, Center for Nanomedicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jung-Hwan Lee
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, South Korea
| | - Ju Jiao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Du Cheng
- PCFM Lab of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hae-Won Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, South Korea.
| | - Yu Tao
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, Center for Nanomedicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Mingqiang Li
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational Medicine, Center for Nanomedicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China.
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34
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Jain S, Xun G, Abesteh S, Ho S, Lingamaneni M, Martin TA, Tasan I, Yang C, Zhao H. Precise Regulation of Cas9-Mediated Genome Engineering by Anti-CRISPR-Based Inducible CRISPR Controllers. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:1320-1327. [PMID: 34006094 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.0c00548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 is a powerful genome editing tool, but its off-target cleavage activity can result in unintended adverse outcomes for therapeutic applications. Here we report the design of a simple tunable CRISPR controller in which a chemically inducible anti-CRISPR protein AcrIIA4 is engineered to disable Cas9 DNA binding upon the addition of trimethoprim. Dose-dependent control over Cas9 editing and dCas9 induction was achieved, which drastically improved the specificity and biosafety of the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We utilized the anti-CRISPR protein AcrIIA4 as a means to interfere with Cas9 DNA binding activity. By fusing AcrIIA4 to a ligand-inducible destabilization domain DHFR(DD), we show significantly reduced off-target activity in mammalian cells. Furthermore, we describe a new inducible promoter system Acr-OFF based on CRISPR controllers, which is regulated by an FDA-approved ligand trimethoprim.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Guanhua Xun
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Shireen Abesteh
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Sherri Ho
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Manasi Lingamaneni
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Teresa A Martin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ipek Tasan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Che Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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35
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López Del Amo V, Leger BS, Cox KJ, Gill S, Bishop AL, Scanlon GD, Walker JA, Gantz VM, Choudhary A. Small-Molecule Control of Super-Mendelian Inheritance in Gene Drives. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107841. [PMID: 32610142 PMCID: PMC7587219 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic CRISPR-based gene-drive systems have tremendous potential in public health and agriculture, such as for fighting vector-borne diseases or suppressing crop pest populations. These elements can rapidly spread in a population by breaching the inheritance limit of 50% dictated by Mendel's law of gene segregation, making them a promising tool for population engineering. However, current technologies lack control over their propagation capacity, and there are important concerns about potential unchecked spreading. Here, we describe a gene-drive system in Drosophila that generates an analog inheritance output that can be tightly and conditionally controlled to between 50% and 100%. This technology uses a modified SpCas9 that responds to a synthetic, orally available small molecule, fine-tuning the inheritance probability. This system opens a new avenue to feasibility studies for spatial and temporal control of gene drives using small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor López Del Amo
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Brittany S Leger
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kurt J Cox
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shubhroz Gill
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Alena L Bishop
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Garrett D Scanlon
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - James A Walker
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cancer Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Valentino M Gantz
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Amit Choudhary
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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36
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Hendel SJ, Shoulders MD. Directed evolution in mammalian cells. Nat Methods 2021; 18:346-357. [PMID: 33828274 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-021-01090-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Directed evolution experiments are typically carried out using in vitro systems, bacteria, or yeast-even when the goal is to probe or modulate mammalian biology. Performing directed evolution in systems that do not match the intended mammalian environment severely constrains the scope and functionality of the targets that can be evolved. We review new platforms that are now making it possible to use the mammalian cell itself as the setting for directed evolution and present an overview of frontier challenges and high-impact targets for this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Hendel
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Matthew D Shoulders
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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37
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Hoffmann MD, Mathony J, Upmeier Zu Belzen J, Harteveld Z, Aschenbrenner S, Stengl C, Grimm D, Correia BE, Eils R, Niopek D. Optogenetic control of Neisseria meningitidis Cas9 genome editing using an engineered, light-switchable anti-CRISPR protein. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:e29. [PMID: 33330940 PMCID: PMC7969004 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic control of CRISPR–Cas9 systems has significantly improved our ability to perform genome perturbations in living cells with high precision in time and space. As new Cas orthologues with advantageous properties are rapidly being discovered and engineered, the need for straightforward strategies to control their activity via exogenous stimuli persists. The Cas9 from Neisseria meningitidis (Nme) is a particularly small and target-specific Cas9 orthologue, and thus of high interest for in vivo genome editing applications. Here, we report the first optogenetic tool to control NmeCas9 activity in mammalian cells via an engineered, light-dependent anti-CRISPR (Acr) protein. Building on our previous Acr engineering work, we created hybrids between the NmeCas9 inhibitor AcrIIC3 and the LOV2 blue light sensory domain from Avena sativa. Two AcrIIC3-LOV2 hybrids from our collection potently blocked NmeCas9 activity in the dark, while permitting robust genome editing at various endogenous loci upon blue light irradiation. Structural analysis revealed that, within these hybrids, the LOV2 domain is located in striking proximity to the Cas9 binding surface. Together, our work demonstrates optogenetic regulation of a type II-C CRISPR effector and might suggest a new route for the design of optogenetic Acrs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareike D Hoffmann
- Dept. of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan Mathony
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany.,Department of Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt,64287 Darmstadt, Germany.,PhD Student, BZH graduate school, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Zander Harteveld
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland.,Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Aschenbrenner
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany.,Department of Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt,64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Dirk Grimm
- Dept. of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,BioQuant, Cluster of Excellence CellNetworks, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bruno E Correia
- Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland.,Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Roland Eils
- Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) and Charité, Berlin 10178, Germany.,Health Data Science Unit, BioQuant and Medical Faculty of Heidelberg University, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Dominik Niopek
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany.,Department of Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt,64287 Darmstadt, Germany
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38
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Uslu M, Siyah P, Harvey AJ, Kocabaş F. Modulating Cas9 activity for precision gene editing. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 181:89-127. [PMID: 34127203 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The CRISPR/Cas9 is a RNA-guided nuclease complex that can be specifically programmed to target a user-specified DNA sequence. It has been a powerful and effective tool of genome editing. However, off-target activity of the Cas9 nuclease limits its potential use in the correction of inherited diseases and bona fide gene editing. Various protein engineering and guide RNA selection strategies have been utilized to improve Cas9-based genome-editing specificity and efficiency. We, however, have not yet achieved a degree of safety such that Cas9 gene editing approaches could be applicable in clinical settings. Here, we discuss the recently developed and precise gene editing technologies based on spCas9. Furthermore, we describe Cas9 modulating tools to increase the fidelity of the CRISPR/Cas9 system. These studies suggest that there is still a need for pharmaceutical modulation of Cas9 activity during gene editing procedures. Pharmaceutical modulation of Cas9 nuclease activity at on-target or off-target genomic loci could 1 day allow researchers to develop robust and precise therapeutical strategies in gene editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Uslu
- Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pınar Siyah
- Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Andrew John Harvey
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatih Kocabaş
- Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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39
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Li Q, Su J, Liu Y, Jin X, Zhong X, Mo L, Wang Q, Deng H, Yang Y. In vivo PCSK9 gene editing using an all-in-one self-cleavage AAV-CRISPR system. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2021; 20:652-659. [PMID: 33718515 PMCID: PMC7907211 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated delivery of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) has shown promising results in preclinical models. However, the long-term expression of Cas9 mediated by AAV in the post-mitotic cells raises concerns with specificity and immunogenicity. Thus, it would be advantageous to limit the duration of Cas9 expression following delivery. In this study, we have engineered an all-in-one self-cleavage AAV-CRISPR-Cas9 system to restrict the expression of Cas9 nuclease, which consists of a Cas9 nuclease from Staphylococcus aureus (SaCas9), a chimeric single guide RNA (sgRNA) molecule targeting PCSK9, and flanking sites targeted by this sgRNA. The self-cleavage system generated a negative feedback loop where Cas9 cut both the target genomic locus and the AAV vector, thus self-limiting the expression of Cas9. We demonstrated that this system could reduce ∼60% expression of SaCas9 protein and had a 20-fold reduction in off-target activity at 24 weeks post-vector administration in vivo. Moreover, the on-target editing efficacy was not compromised and resulted in a stable reduction in circulating PCSK9 and serum cholesterol. The inclusion of this self-cleavage system in gene-editing approaches could increase the safety profile of AAV-delivered genome-editing nucleases and thereby promote its clinical transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiu Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Li Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qingnan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hongxin Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu 610041, China
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40
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Wu H, Wang F, Jiang JH. Inducible CRISPR-dCas9 Transcriptional Systems for Sensing and Genome Regulation. Chembiochem 2021; 22:1894-1900. [PMID: 33433941 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The clustered, regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 endonuclease (CRISPR-Cas9) and the nuclease-deactivated Cas9 (dCas9) systems have revolutionized our ability to precisely engineer and regulate genomes. Inducible CRISPR-dCas9-based transcriptional systems have been rapidly developed to conditionally control genetic manipulation. Current strategies mainly focus on conditional control of gRNA function and dCas9 protein using exogenous and endogenous triggers, including external light, small molecules, synthetic and intracellular oligonucleotides. These strategies have established novel platforms for the spatiotemporal regulation of genome activation and repression, epigenome editing, and so on. Herein, we summarize the recent progress in conditionally controlling CRISPR-dCas9 transcriptional systems through gRNA modulation and dCas9 protein engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Fenglin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Hui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
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41
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Chuang YF, Phipps AJ, Lin FL, Hecht V, Hewitt AW, Wang PY, Liu GS. Approach for in vivo delivery of CRISPR/Cas system: a recent update and future prospect. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:2683-2708. [PMID: 33388855 PMCID: PMC11072787 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03725-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) system provides a groundbreaking genetic technology that allows scientists to modify genes by targeting specific genomic sites. Due to the relative simplicity and versatility of the CRISPR/Cas system, it has been extensively applied in human genetic research as well as in agricultural applications, such as improving crops. Since the gene editing activity of the CRISPR/Cas system largely depends on the efficiency of introducing the system into cells or tissues, an efficient and specific delivery system is critical for applying CRISPR/Cas technology. However, there are still some hurdles remaining for the translatability of CRISPR/Cas system. In this review, we summarized the approaches used for the delivery of the CRISPR/Cas system in mammals, plants, and aquacultures. We further discussed the aspects of delivery that can be improved to elevate the potential for CRISPR/Cas translatability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Fan Chuang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen University Town, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
| | - Andrew J Phipps
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Fan-Li Lin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen University Town, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
| | - Valerie Hecht
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peng-Yuan Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen University Town, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia.
| | - Guei-Sheung Liu
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia.
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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42
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Lin J, Liu Y, Lai P, Ye H, Xu L. Conditional guide RNA through two intermediate hairpins for programmable CRISPR/Cas9 function: building regulatory connections between endogenous RNA expressions. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 48:11773-11784. [PMID: 33068434 PMCID: PMC7672423 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A variety of nanodevices developed for nucleic acid computation provide great opportunities to construct versatile synthetic circuits for manipulation of gene expressions. In our study, by employing a two-hairpin mediated nucleic acid strand displacement as a processing joint for conditional guide RNA, we aim to build artificial connections between naturally occurring RNA expressions through programmable CRISPR/Cas9 function. This two-hairpin joint possesses a sequence-switching machinery, in which a random trigger strand can be processed to release an unconstrained sequence-independent strand and consequently activate the self-inhibitory guide RNA for conditional gene regulation. This intermediate processor was characterized by the fluorescence reporter system and applied for regulation of the CRISPR/Cas9 binding activity. Using plasmids to generate this sequence-switching machinery in situ, we achieved the autonomous genetic regulation of endogenous RNA expressions controlled by other unrelated endogenous RNAs in both E. coli and human cells. Unlike previously reported strand-displacement genetic circuits, this advanced nucleic acid nanomachine provides a novel approach that can establish regulatory connections between naturally occurring endogenous RNAs. In addition to CRISPR systems, we anticipate this two-hairpin machine can serve as a general processing joint for wide applications in the development of other RNA-based genetic circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Lin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yan Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Peidong Lai
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Huixia Ye
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Liang Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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43
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Newsom S, Parameshwaran HP, Martin L, Rajan R. The CRISPR-Cas Mechanism for Adaptive Immunity and Alternate Bacterial Functions Fuels Diverse Biotechnologies. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:619763. [PMID: 33585286 PMCID: PMC7876343 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.619763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial and archaeal CRISPR-Cas systems offer adaptive immune protection against foreign mobile genetic elements (MGEs). This function is regulated by sequence specific binding of CRISPR RNA (crRNA) to target DNA/RNA, with an additional requirement of a flanking DNA motif called the protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) in certain CRISPR systems. In this review, we discuss how the same fundamental mechanism of RNA-DNA and/or RNA-RNA complementarity is utilized by bacteria to regulate two distinct functions: to ward off intruding genetic materials and to modulate diverse physiological functions. The best documented examples of alternate functions are bacterial virulence, biofilm formation, adherence, programmed cell death, and quorum sensing. While extensive complementarity between the crRNA and the targeted DNA and/or RNA seems to constitute an efficient phage protection system, partial complementarity seems to be the key for several of the characterized alternate functions. Cas proteins are also involved in sequence-specific and non-specific RNA cleavage and control of transcriptional regulator expression, the mechanisms of which are still elusive. Over the past decade, the mechanisms of RNA-guided targeting and auxiliary functions of several Cas proteins have been transformed into powerful gene editing and biotechnological tools. We provide a synopsis of CRISPR technologies in this review. Even with the abundant mechanistic insights and biotechnology tools that are currently available, the discovery of new and diverse CRISPR types holds promise for future technological innovations, which will pave the way for precision genome medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Newsom
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Structural Biology Center, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Hari Priya Parameshwaran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Structural Biology Center, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Lindsie Martin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Structural Biology Center, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Rakhi Rajan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Structural Biology Center, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
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Shivram H, Cress BF, Knott GJ, Doudna JA. Controlling and enhancing CRISPR systems. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:10-19. [PMID: 33328654 PMCID: PMC8101458 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-020-00700-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Many bacterial and archaeal organisms use clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR associated (CRISPR-Cas) systems to defend themselves from mobile genetic elements. These CRISPR-Cas systems are classified into six types based on their composition and mechanism. CRISPR-Cas enzymes are widely used for genome editing and offer immense therapeutic opportunity to treat genetic diseases. To realize their full potential, it is important to control the timing, duration, efficiency and specificity of CRISPR-Cas enzyme activities. In this Review we discuss the mechanisms of natural CRISPR-Cas regulatory biomolecules and engineering strategies that enhance or inhibit CRISPR-Cas immunity by altering enzyme function. We also discuss the potential applications of these CRISPR regulators and highlight unanswered questions about their evolution and purpose in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haridha Shivram
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Brady F Cress
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Gavin J Knott
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Doudna
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- MBIB Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Gladstone Institutes, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Sreekanth V, Zhou Q, Kokkonda P, Bermudez-Cabrera HC, Lim D, Law BK, Holmes BR, Chaudhary SK, Pergu R, Leger BS, Walker JA, Gifford DK, Sherwood RI, Choudhary A. Chemogenetic System Demonstrates That Cas9 Longevity Impacts Genome Editing Outcomes. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2020; 6:2228-2237. [PMID: 33376784 PMCID: PMC7760466 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.0c00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged Cas9 activity can hinder genome engineering as it causes off-target effects, genotoxicity, heterogeneous genome-editing outcomes, immunogenicity, and mosaicism in embryonic editing-issues which could be addressed by controlling the longevity of Cas9. Though some temporal controls of Cas9 activity have been developed, only cumbersome systems exist for modifying the lifetime. Here, we have developed a chemogenetic system that brings Cas9 in proximity to a ubiquitin ligase, enabling rapid ubiquitination and degradation of Cas9 by the proteasome. Despite the large size of Cas9, we were able to demonstrate efficient degradation in cells from multiple species. Furthermore, by controlling the Cas9 lifetime, we were able to bias the DNA repair pathways and the genotypic outcome for both templated and nontemplated genome editing. Finally, we were able to dosably control the Cas9 activity and specificity to ameliorate the off-target effects. The ability of this system to change the Cas9 lifetime and, therefore, bias repair pathways and specificity in the desired direction allows precision control of the genome editing outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vedagopuram Sreekanth
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Qingxuan Zhou
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Praveen Kokkonda
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Heysol C. Bermudez-Cabrera
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Donghyun Lim
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Benjamin K. Law
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Benjamin R. Holmes
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Santosh K. Chaudhary
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Rajaiah Pergu
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Brittany S. Leger
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - James A. Walker
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - David K. Gifford
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Richard I. Sherwood
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Hubrecht Institute for Developmental Biology and Stem Cell Research, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Amit Choudhary
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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46
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Modell AE, Siriwardena SU, Shoba VM, Li X, Choudhary A. Chemical and optical control of CRISPR-associated nucleases. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2020; 60:113-121. [PMID: 33253976 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas system of bacteria has furnished programmable nucleases (e.g., Cas9) that are transforming the field of genome editing with applications in basic and biomedical research, biotechnology, and agriculture. However, broader real-world applications of Cas9 require precision control of its activity over dose, time, and space as off-target effects, embryonic mosaicism, chromosomal translocations, and genotoxicity have been observed with elevated and/or prolonged nuclease activity. Here, we review chemical and optical methods for precision control of Cas9's activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley E Modell
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Sachini U Siriwardena
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Veronika M Shoba
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Xing Li
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Amit Choudhary
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA; Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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47
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Hao Y, Li J, Li Q, Zhang L, Shi J, Zhang X, Aldalbahi A, Wang L, Fan C, Wang F. Programmable Live-Cell CRISPR Imaging with Toehold-Switch-Mediated Strand Displacement. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:20612-20618. [PMID: 32744433 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202009062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The widespread application of CRISPR-Cas9 has transformed genome engineering. Nevertheless, the precision to control the targeting activity of Cas9 requires further improvement. We report a toehold-switch-based approach to engineer the conformation of single guide RNA (sgRNA) for programmable activation of Cas9. This activation circuit is responsive to multiple inputs and can regulate the conformation of the sgRNA through toehold-switch-mediated strand displacement. We demonstrate the orthogonal suppression and activation of Cas9 with orthogonal DNA inputs. Combination of toehold switches leads to a variety of intracellular Cas9 activation programs with simultaneous and orthogonal responses, through which multiple genome loci are displayed in different colors in a controllable manner. This approach provides a new route for programing CRISPR in living cells for genome imaging and engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaya Hao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Jiang Li
- Bioimaging Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China
- Division of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Luhao Zhang
- Division of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
| | - Jiye Shi
- Division of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
| | - Xueli Zhang
- Joint Research Center for Precision Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital South Campus, Southern Medical University, Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai, 201499, China
| | - Ali Aldalbahi
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lihua Wang
- Bioimaging Center, Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China
- Division of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
| | - Chunhai Fan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Fei Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Joint Research Center for Precision Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital South Campus, Southern Medical University, Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai, 201499, China
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48
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Santos-Moreno J, Schaerli Y. CRISPR-based gene expression control for synthetic gene circuits. Biochem Soc Trans 2020; 48:1979-1993. [PMID: 32964920 PMCID: PMC7609024 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic gene circuits allow us to govern cell behavior in a programmable manner, which is central to almost any application aiming to harness engineered living cells for user-defined tasks. Transcription factors (TFs) constitute the 'classic' tool for synthetic circuit construction but some of their inherent constraints, such as insufficient modularity, orthogonality and programmability, limit progress in such forward-engineering endeavors. Here we review how CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) technology offers new and powerful possibilities for synthetic circuit design. CRISPR systems offer superior characteristics over TFs in many aspects relevant to a modular, predictable and standardized circuit design. Thus, the choice of CRISPR technology as a framework for synthetic circuit design constitutes a valid alternative to complement or replace TFs in synthetic circuits and promises the realization of more ambitious designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Santos-Moreno
- Department of Fundamental Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Biophore Building, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yolanda Schaerli
- Department of Fundamental Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Biophore Building, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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49
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Azangou-Khyavy M, Ghasemi M, Khanali J, Boroomand-Saboor M, Jamalkhah M, Soleimani M, Kiani J. CRISPR/Cas: From Tumor Gene Editing to T Cell-Based Immunotherapy of Cancer. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2062. [PMID: 33117331 PMCID: PMC7553049 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats system has demonstrated considerable advantages over other nuclease-based genome editing tools due to its high accuracy, efficiency, and strong specificity. Given that cancer is caused by an excessive accumulation of mutations that lead to the activation of oncogenes and inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, the CRISPR/Cas9 system is a therapy of choice for tumor genome editing and treatment. In defining its superior use, we have reviewed the novel applications of the CRISPR genome editing tool in discovering, sorting, and prioritizing targets for subsequent interventions, and passing different hurdles of cancer treatment such as epigenetic alterations and drug resistance. Moreover, we have reviewed the breakthroughs precipitated by the CRISPR system in the field of cancer immunotherapy, such as identification of immune system-tumor interplay, production of universal Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells, inhibition of immune checkpoint inhibitors, and Oncolytic Virotherapy. The existing challenges and limitations, as well as the prospects of CRISPR based systems, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mobina Ghasemi
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Khanali
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Monire Jamalkhah
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Soleimani
- Hematology Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Kiani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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50
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Wang Y, Liu Y, Xie F, Lin J, Xu L. Photocontrol of CRISPR/Cas9 function by site-specific chemical modification of guide RNA. Chem Sci 2020; 11:11478-11484. [PMID: 34094391 PMCID: PMC8162494 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc04343e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of CRISPR/Cas9 can be conditionally controlled by the rational engineering of guide RNA (gRNA) to target the gene of choice for precise manipulation of the genome. Particularly, chemically modified gRNA that can be activated by using specific stimuli provides a unique tool to expand the versatility of conditional control. Herein, unlike previous engineering of gRNA that generally focused on the RNA part only but neglected RNA-protein interactions, we aimed at the interactive sites between 2'-OH of ribose in the seed region of gRNA and the Cas9 protein and identified that chemical modifications at specific sites could be utilized to regulate the Cas9 activity. By introducing a photolabile group at these specific sites, we achieved optical control of Cas9 activity without disrupting the Watson-Crick base pairing. We further examined our design through CRISPR-mediated gene activation and nuclease cleavage in living cells and successfully manipulated the gene expression by using light irradiation. Our site-specific modification strategy exhibited a highly efficient and dynamic optical response and presented a new perspective for manipulating gRNA based on the RNA-protein interaction rather than the structure of RNA itself. In addition, these specific sites could also be potentially utilized for modification of other stimuli-responsive groups, which would further enrich the toolbox for conditional control of CRISPR/Cas9 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 China
| | - Yan Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 China
| | - Fan Xie
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 China
| | - Jiao Lin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 China
| | - Liang Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510275 China
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