Author Correction: An episomal vector-based CRISPR/Cas9 system for highly efficient gene knockout in human pluripotent stem cells

Generation of a homozygous S100A1 knockout human embryonic stem cell line (WAe009-A-73) by the CRISPR/Cas9 editing system

S100A1 is a calcium-binding protein involved in myocardial contractility,which possesses a high affinity for calcium.  Several studies have demonstrated that S100A1 is a protector against myocardial injury. In this study, we have generated a homozygous S100A1 knockout (S100A1-KO) human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line by the CRISPR/Cas9 editing system. This S100A1-KO hESC line maintained normal morphology, pluripotency and karyotype, which can differentiate into three germ layers in vivo.

Establishment of a KCNQ1 homozygous knockout human embryonic stem cell line by episomal vector-based CRISPR/Cas9 system

As a member of the voltage-gated potassium ion channels, KCNQ1 plays an important role in heart physiological functions. Numerous mutations in KCNQ1 were identified as primary causes to hereditary long-QT syndrome. To further study the role of KCNQ1 in human cardiac functions, here we generated a homozygous KCNQ1 knockout human embryonic stem cell line (KCNQ1-KO) using episomal vector-based CRISPR/Cas9 system. This generated cell line presented typical stem cells colony morphology, maintained highly pluripotency and normal karyotype, also was able to differentiate into all three germ layers in vivo.

DGK and DZHK position paper on genome editing: basic science applications and future perspective

For a long time, gene editing had been a scientific concept, which was limited to a few applications. With recent developments, following the discovery of TALEN zinc-finger endonucleases and in particular the CRISPR/Cas system, gene editing has become a technique applicable in most laboratories. The current gain- and loss-of function models in basic science are revolutionary as they allow unbiased screens of unprecedented depth and complexity and rapid development of transgenic animals. Modifications of CRISPR/Cas have been developed to precisely interrogate epigenetic regulation or to visualize DNA complexes. Moreover, gene editing as a clinical treatment option is rapidly developing with first trials on the way. This article reviews the most recent progress in the field, covering expert opinions gathered during joint conferences on genome editing of the German Cardiac Society (DGK) and the German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK). Particularly focusing on the translational aspect and the combination of cellular and animal applications, the authors aim to provide direction for the development of the field and the most frequent applications with their problems.

Generation of a homozygous COX6A2 knockout human embryonic stem cell line (WAe009-A-47) via an epiCRISPR/Cas9 system

COX6A2 protein is a structural subunit of Complex IV (CIV/Cytochrome c oxidase/COX) in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. It is mainly expressed in the heart and skeletal muscle, also in some interneurons, regulating the assembly and catalytic activity of CIV. Its mutations can lead to COX deficiency, causing human myopathies, and maybe a potential cause of neurological abnormalities. Here, we used the CRISPR/Cas9 editing system to establish a homozygous COX6A2 knockout (COX6A2-KO) human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line. This COX6A2-KO hESC has normal morphology, pluripotency, and karyotype, which can differentiate into three germ layers in vivo.