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Anand V, Prabhakaran HS, Prakash A, Hussain MS, Kumar M. Differential processing of CRISPR RNA by LinCas5c and LinCas6 of Leptospira. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2023; 1867:130469. [PMID: 37797871 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2023.130469] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni's genome harbors two CRISPR-Cas systems belonging to subtypes I-B and I-C. However, in L. interrogans, the subtype I-C locus lacks an array component essential for assembling an interference complex. Thus, the reason for sustaining the expense of a cluster of cas genes (I-C) is obscure. Type I-C (previously Dvulg) is the only CRISPR subtype that engages Cas5c, a Cas5 variant, to process precursor CRISPR-RNA (pre-crRNA). In this study, thus, the recombinant Cas5c (rLinCas5c) of L.interrogans and its mutant variants were cloned, expressed, and purified. The purified rLinCas5c is illustrated as metal-independent, sequence, and size-specific cleavage on repeat RNA and pre-crRNA of subtype I-B or orphan CRISPR array. However, the Cas6-bound mature crRNA of subtype I-B fends off from the rLinCas5c activity. In addition, rLinCas5c holds metal and size-dependent DNase activity. The bioinformatics analysis of LinCas5c inferred that it belongs to the subgroup Cas5c-B. Substitution of Phe141 with a more conserved His residue and deletion of unique (β1'-β2') insertions usher a gain of rLinCas5c activity over nucleic acid. Overall, our results uncover the functional diversity of Cas5c ribonucleases and infer an incognito auxiliary role in the absence of a cognate CRISPR array.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vineet Anand
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Harshini Sheeja Prabhakaran
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Aman Prakash
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Md Saddam Hussain
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India.
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2
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Jia H, Dantuluri S, Margulies S, Smith V, Lever R, Allers T, Koh J, Chen S, Maupin-Furlow JA. RecJ3/4-aRNase J form a Ubl-associated nuclease complex functioning in survival against DNA damage in Haloferax volcanii. mBio 2023; 14:e0085223. [PMID: 37458473 PMCID: PMC10470531 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00852-23] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleases are strictly regulated and often localized in the cell to avoid the uncontrolled degradation of DNA and RNA. Here, a new type of nuclease complex, composed of RecJ3, RecJ4, and aRNase J, was identified through its ATP-dependent association with the ubiquitin-like SAMP1 and AAA-ATPase Cdc48a. The complex was discovered in Haloferax volcanii, an archaeon lacking an RNA exosome. Genetic analysis revealed aRNase J to be essential and RecJ3, RecJ4, and Cdc48a to function in the recovery from DNA damage including genotoxic agents that generate double-strand breaks. The RecJ3:RecJ4:aRNase J complex (isolated in 2:2:1 stoichiometry) functioned primarily as a 3'-5' exonuclease in hydrolyzing RNA and ssDNA, with the mechanism non-processive for ssDNA. aRNase J could also be purified as a homodimer that catalyzed endoribonuclease activity and, thus, was not restricted to the 5'-3' exonuclease activity typical of aRNase J homologs. Moreover, RecJ3 and RecJ4 could be purified as a 560-kDa subcomplex in equimolar subunit ratio with nuclease activities mirroring the full RecJ3/4-aRNase J complex. These findings prompted reconstitution assays that suggested RecJ3/4 could suppress, alter, and/or outcompete the nuclease activities of aRNase J. Based on the phenotypic results, this control mechanism of aRNase J by RecJ3/4 is not necessary for cell growth but instead appears important for DNA repair. IMPORTANCE Nucleases are critical for various cellular processes including DNA replication and repair. Here, a dynamic type of nuclease complex is newly identified in the archaeon Haloferax volcanii, which is missing the canonical RNA exosome. The complex, composed of RecJ3, RecJ4, and aRNase J, functions primarily as a 3'-5' exonuclease and was discovered through its ATP-dependent association with the ubiquitin-like SAMP1 and Cdc48a. aRNase J alone forms a homodimer that has endonuclease function and, thus, is not restricted to 5'-3' exonuclease activity typical of other aRNase J enzymes. RecJ3/4 appears to suppress, alter, and/or outcompete the nuclease activities of aRNase J. While aRNase J is essential for growth, RecJ3/4, Cdc48a, and SAMPs are important for recovery against DNA damage. These biological distinctions may correlate with the regulated nuclease activity of aRNase J in the RecJ3/4-aRNaseJ complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyong Jia
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Swathi Dantuluri
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Shae Margulies
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Victoria Smith
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Lever
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Thorsten Allers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jin Koh
- Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry, Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Sixue Chen
- Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry, Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Julie A. Maupin-Furlow
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Institute of Food and Agricultural Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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3
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Brenner E, Sreevatsan S. Cold Cas: reevaluating the occurrence of CRISPR/Cas systems in Mycobacteriaceae. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1204838. [PMID: 37440893 PMCID: PMC10333696 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1204838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial CRISPR/Cas systems target foreign genetic elements such as phages and regulate gene expression by some pathogens, even in the host. The system is a marker for evolutionary history and has been used for inferences in Mycobacterium tuberculosis for 30 years. However, knowledge about mycobacterial CRISPR/Cas systems remains limited. It is believed that Type III-A Cas systems are exclusive to Mycobacterium canettii and the M. tuberculosis complex (MTBC) of organisms and that very few of the >200 diverse species of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) possess any CRISPR/Cas system. This study sought unreported CRISPR/Cas loci across NTM to better understand mycobacterial evolution, particularly in species phylogenetically near the MTBC. An analysis of available mycobacterial genomes revealed that Cas systems are widespread across Mycobacteriaceae and that some species contain multiple types. The phylogeny of Cas loci shows scattered presence in many NTM, with variation even within species, suggesting gains/losses of these loci occur frequently. Cas Type III-A systems were identified in pathogenic Mycobacterium heckeshornense and the geological environmental isolate Mycobacterium SM1. In summary, mycobacterial CRISPR/Cas systems are numerous, Type III-A systems are unreliable as markers for MTBC evolution, and mycobacterial horizontal gene transfer appears to be a frequent source of genetic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Srinand Sreevatsan
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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4
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Malla RR, Middela K. CRISPR-Based Approaches for Cancer Immunotherapy. Crit Rev Oncog 2023; 28:1-14. [PMID: 38050977 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2023048723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technology is a powerful gene editing tool that has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. It allows for precise and efficient editing of specific genes that drive cancer growth and progression. CRISPR-based approaches gene knock-out, which deletes specific genes or sequences of DNA within a cancer cell, and gene knock-in, which inserts new sequences of DNA into a cancer cell to identify potential targets for cancer therapy. Further, genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9-based screens identify specific markers for diagnosis of cancers. Recently, immunotherapy has become a highly efficient strategy for the treatment of cancer. The use of CRISPR in cancer immunotherapy is focused on enhancing the function of T cells, making them more effective at attacking cancer cells and inactivating the immune evasion mechanisms of cancer cells. It has the potential to generate CAR-T cells, which are T cells that have been genetically engineered to target and attack cancer cells specifically. This review uncovers the latest developments in CRISPR-based gene editing strategies and delivery of their components in cancer cells. In addition, the applications of CRISPR in cancer immune therapy are discussed. Overall, this review helps to explore the potential of CRISPR-based strategies in cancer immune therapy in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama Rao Malla
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM) (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India; Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Keerthana Middela
- Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Bharathkumar N, Sunil A, Meera P, Aksah S, Kannan M, Saravanan KM, Anand T. CRISPR/Cas-Based Modifications for Therapeutic Applications: A Review. Mol Biotechnol 2022; 64:355-372. [PMID: 34741732 PMCID: PMC8571677 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-021-00422-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas genome editing system is an intrinsic property of a bacteria-based immune system. This employs a guide RNA to detect and cleave the PAM-associated target DNA or RNA in subsequent infections, by the invasion of a similar bacteriophage. The discovery of Cas systems has paved the way to overcome the limitations of existing genome editing tools. In this review, we focus on Cas proteins that are available for gene modifications among which Cas9, Cas12a, and Cas13 have been widely used in the areas of medicine, research, and diagnostics. Since CRISPR has been already proven for its potential research applications, the next milestone for CRISPR will be proving its efficacy and safety. In this connection, we systematically review recent advances in exploring multiple variants of Cas proteins and their modifications for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abraham Sunil
- Department of Animal Behavior and Physiology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu India
| | - Prabhakar Meera
- B Aatral Biosciences Private Limited, Bangalore, Karnataka India
| | - Sam Aksah
- B Aatral Biosciences Private Limited, Bangalore, Karnataka India
| | - Muthu Kannan
- B Aatral Biosciences Private Limited, Bangalore, Karnataka India
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Schwarz TS, Schreiber SS, Marchfelder A. CRISPR Interference as a Tool to Repress Gene Expression in Haloferax volcanii. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2522:57-85. [PMID: 36125743 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2445-6_4] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To date, a plethora of tools for molecular biology have been developed on the basis of the CRISPR-Cas system. Almost all use the class 2 systems since here the setup is the simplest with only one protein and one guide RNA, allowing for easy transfer to and expression in other organisms. However, the CRISPR-Cas components harnessed for applications are derived from mesophilic bacteria and are not optimal for use in extremophilic archaea.Here, we describe the application of an endogenous CRISPR-Cas system as a tool for silencing gene expression in a halophilic archaeon. Haloferax volcanii has a CRISPR-Cas system of subtype I-B, which can be easily used to repress the transcription of endogenous genes, allowing to study the effects of their depletion. This article gives a step-by-step introduction on how to use the implemented system for any gene of interest in Haloferax volcanii. The concept of CRISPRi described here for Haloferax can be transferred to any other archaeon, that is genetically tractable and has an endogenous CRISPR-Cas I systems.
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7
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Märkle P, Maier LK, Maaß S, Hirschfeld C, Bartel J, Becher D, Voß B, Marchfelder A. A Small RNA Is Linking CRISPR-Cas and Zinc Transport. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:640440. [PMID: 34055875 PMCID: PMC8155600 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.640440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The function and mode of action of small regulatory RNAs is currently still understudied in archaea. In the halophilic archaeon Haloferax volcanii, a plethora of sRNAs have been identified; however, in-depth functional analysis is missing for most of them. We selected a small RNA (s479) from Haloferax volcanii for detailed characterization. The sRNA gene is encoded between a CRISPR RNA locus and the Cas protein gene cluster, and the s479 deletion strain is viable and was characterized in detail. Transcriptome studies of wild-type Haloferax cells and the deletion mutant revealed upregulation of six genes in the deletion strain, showing that this sRNA has a clearly defined function. Three of the six upregulated genes encode potential zinc transporter proteins (ZnuA1, ZnuB1, and ZnuC1) suggesting the involvement of s479 in the regulation of zinc transport. Upregulation of these genes in the deletion strain was confirmed by northern blot and proteome analyses. Furthermore, electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrate a direct interaction of s479 with the target znuC1 mRNA. Proteome comparison of wild-type and deletion strains further expanded the regulon of s479 deeply rooting this sRNA within the metabolism of H. volcanii especially the regulation of transporter abundance. Interestingly, s479 is not only encoded next to CRISPR-cas genes, but the mature s479 contains a crRNA-like 5' handle, and experiments with Cas protein deletion strains indicate maturation by Cas6 and interaction with Cas proteins. Together, this might suggest that the CRISPR-Cas system is involved in s479 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Märkle
- Department of Biology II, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Sandra Maaß
- Department of Microbial Proteomics, Institute of Microbiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Claudia Hirschfeld
- Department of Microbial Proteomics, Institute of Microbiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jürgen Bartel
- Department of Microbial Proteomics, Institute of Microbiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Dörte Becher
- Department of Microbial Proteomics, Institute of Microbiology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Björn Voß
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
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Prakash A, Kumar M. Characterizing the transcripts of Leptospira CRISPR I-B array and its processing with endoribonuclease LinCas6. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 182:785-795. [PMID: 33862076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.04.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni, the CRISPR-Cas I-B locus possesses a CRISPR array between the two independent cas-operons. Using the reverse transcription-PCR and the in vitro endoribonuclease assay with Cas6 of Leptospira (LinCas6), we account that the CRISPR is transcriptionally active and is conventionally processed. The LinCas6 specifically excises at one site within the synthetic cognate repeat RNA or the repeats of precursor-CRISPR RNA (pre-crRNA) in the sense direction. In contrast, the antisense repeat RNA is cleaved at multiple sites. LinCas6 functions as a single turnover endoribonuclease on its repeat RNA substrate, where substitution of one of predicted active site residues (His38) resulted in reduced activity. This study highlights the comprehensive understanding of the Leptospira CRISPR array transcription and its processing by LinCas6 that is central to RNA-mediated CRISPR-Cas I-B adaptive immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aman Prakash
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India.
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Knüppel R, Trahan C, Kern M, Wagner A, Grünberger F, Hausner W, Quax TEF, Albers SV, Oeffinger M, Ferreira-Cerca S. Insights into synthesis and function of KsgA/Dim1-dependent rRNA modifications in archaea. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:1662-1687. [PMID: 33434266 PMCID: PMC7897474 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribosomes are intricate molecular machines ensuring proper protein synthesis in every cell. Ribosome biogenesis is a complex process which has been intensively analyzed in bacteria and eukaryotes. In contrast, our understanding of the in vivo archaeal ribosome biogenesis pathway remains less characterized. Here, we have analyzed the in vivo role of the almost universally conserved ribosomal RNA dimethyltransferase KsgA/Dim1 homolog in archaea. Our study reveals that KsgA/Dim1-dependent 16S rRNA dimethylation is dispensable for the cellular growth of phylogenetically distant archaea. However, proteomics and functional analyses suggest that archaeal KsgA/Dim1 and its rRNA modification activity (i) influence the expression of a subset of proteins and (ii) contribute to archaeal cellular fitness and adaptation. In addition, our study reveals an unexpected KsgA/Dim1-dependent variability of rRNA modifications within the archaeal phylum. Combining structure-based functional studies across evolutionary divergent organisms, we provide evidence on how rRNA structure sequence variability (re-)shapes the KsgA/Dim1-dependent rRNA modification status. Finally, our results suggest an uncoupling between the KsgA/Dim1-dependent rRNA modification completion and its release from the nascent small ribosomal subunit. Collectively, our study provides additional understandings into principles of molecular functional adaptation, and further evolutionary and mechanistic insights into an almost universally conserved step of ribosome synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Knüppel
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Biochemistry III – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christian Trahan
- Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, 110 Avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, Québec H2W 1R7, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Département de Biochimie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Michael Kern
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Biochemistry III – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Wagner
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, Microbiology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Felix Grünberger
- Chair of Microbiology – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Winfried Hausner
- Chair of Microbiology – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tessa E F Quax
- Archaeal Virus-Host Interactions, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, Microbiology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, Microbiology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marlene Oeffinger
- Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, 110 Avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, Québec H2W 1R7, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec H3A 1A3, Canada
- Département de Biochimie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Sébastien Ferreira-Cerca
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, Biochemistry III – Institute for Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Görücü Yilmaz S. Genome editing technologies: CRISPR, LEAPER, RESTORE, ARCUT, SATI, and RESCUE. EXCLI JOURNAL 2021; 20:19-45. [PMID: 33510590 PMCID: PMC7838830 DOI: 10.17179/excli2020-3070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing technologies include techniques used for desired genetic modifications and allow the insertion, modification or deletion of specific DNA fragments. Recent advances in genome biology offer unprecedented promise for interdisciplinary collaboration and applications in gene editing. New genome editing technologies enable specific and efficient genome modifications. The sources that inspire these modifications and already exist in the genome are DNA degradation enzymes and DNA repair pathways. Six of these recent technologies are the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), leveraging endogenous ADAR for programmable editing of RNA (LEAPER), recruiting endogenous ADAR to specific transcripts for oligonucleotide-mediated RNA editing (RESTORE), chemistry-based artificial restriction DNA cutter (ARCUT), single homology arm donor mediated intron-targeting integration (SATI), RNA editing for specific C-to-U exchange (RESCUE). These technologies are widely used from various biomedical researches to clinics, agriculture, and allow you to rearrange genomic sequences, create cell lines and animal models to solve human diseases. This review emphasizes the characteristics, superiority, limitations, also whether each technology can be used in different biological systems and the potential application of these systems in the treatment of several human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senay Görücü Yilmaz
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey 27310
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Batool A, Malik F, Andrabi KI. Expansion of the CRISPR/Cas Genome-Sculpting Toolbox: Innovations, Applications and Challenges. Mol Diagn Ther 2020; 25:41-57. [PMID: 33185860 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-020-00500-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of the versatile gene-editing technology using programmable sequence-specific endonuclease system (CRISPR-Cas9) has instigated a major upheaval in biomedical research. In a brief span of time, CRISPR/Cas has been adopted by research labs around the globe because of its potential for significant progress and applicability in terms of efficiency, versatility and simplicity. It is a breakthrough technique for systematic genetic engineering, genome labelling, epigenetic and transcriptional modulation, and multiplexed gene editing, amongst others. This review provides an illustrative overview of the current research trends using CRISPR/Cas technology. We highlight the latest developments in CRISPR/Cas technique including CRISPR imaging, discovery of novel CRISPR systems, and applications in altering the genome, epigenome or RNA in different organisms. Finally, we address the potential challenges of this technique for its future use. Development of new CRISPR/Cas systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asiya Batool
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Branch Srinagar, Jammu, J&K, 190005, India. .,Department of Biotechnology, Science Block, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, J&K, 190006, India.
| | - Fayaz Malik
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Branch Srinagar, Jammu, J&K, 190005, India
| | - Khurshid Iqbal Andrabi
- Department of Biotechnology, Science Block, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, J&K, 190006, India
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12
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Zink IA, Wimmer E, Schleper C. Heavily Armed Ancestors: CRISPR Immunity and Applications in Archaea with a Comparative Analysis of CRISPR Types in Sulfolobales. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1523. [PMID: 33172134 PMCID: PMC7694759 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prokaryotes are constantly coping with attacks by viruses in their natural environments and therefore have evolved an impressive array of defense systems. Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) is an adaptive immune system found in the majority of archaea and about half of bacteria which stores pieces of infecting viral DNA as spacers in genomic CRISPR arrays to reuse them for specific virus destruction upon a second wave of infection. In detail, small CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs) are transcribed from CRISPR arrays and incorporated into type-specific CRISPR effector complexes which further degrade foreign nucleic acids complementary to the crRNA. This review gives an overview of CRISPR immunity to newcomers in the field and an update on CRISPR literature in archaea by comparing the functional mechanisms and abundances of the diverse CRISPR types. A bigger fraction is dedicated to the versatile and prevalent CRISPR type III systems, as tremendous progress has been made recently using archaeal models in discerning the controlled molecular mechanisms of their unique tripartite mode of action including RNA interference, DNA interference and the unique cyclic-oligoadenylate signaling that induces promiscuous RNA shredding by CARF-domain ribonucleases. The second half of the review spotlights CRISPR in archaea outlining seminal in vivo and in vitro studies in model organisms of the euryarchaeal and crenarchaeal phyla, including the application of CRISPR-Cas for genome editing and gene silencing. In the last section, a special focus is laid on members of the crenarchaeal hyperthermophilic order Sulfolobales by presenting a thorough comparative analysis about the distribution and abundance of CRISPR-Cas systems, including arrays and spacers as well as CRISPR-accessory proteins in all 53 genomes available to date. Interestingly, we find that CRISPR type III and the DNA-degrading CRISPR type I complexes co-exist in more than two thirds of these genomes. Furthermore, we identified ring nuclease candidates in all but two genomes and found that they generally co-exist with the above-mentioned CARF domain ribonucleases Csx1/Csm6. These observations, together with published literature allowed us to draft a working model of how CRISPR-Cas systems and accessory proteins cross talk to establish native CRISPR anti-virus immunity in a Sulfolobales cell.
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13
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Li Z, Rodriguez‐Franco M, Albers S, Quax TEF. The switch complex ArlCDE connects the chemotaxis system and the archaellum. Mol Microbiol 2020; 114:468-479. [PMID: 32416640 PMCID: PMC7534055 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cells require a sensory system and a motility structure to achieve directed movement. Bacteria and archaea possess rotating filamentous motility structures that work in concert with the sensory chemotaxis system. This allows microorganisms to move along chemical gradients. The central response regulator protein CheY can bind to the motor of the motility structure, the flagellum in bacteria, and the archaellum in archaea. Both motility structures have a fundamentally different protein composition and structural organization. Yet, both systems receive input from the chemotaxis system. So far, it was unknown how the signal is transferred from the archaeal CheY to the archaellum motor to initiate motor switching. We applied a fluorescent microscopy approach in the model euryarchaeon Haloferax volcanii and shed light on the sequence order in which signals are transferred from the chemotaxis system to the archaellum. Our findings indicate that the euryarchaeal-specific ArlCDE are part of the archaellum motor and that they directly receive input from the chemotaxis system via the adaptor protein CheF. Hence, ArlCDE are an important feature of the archaellum of euryarchaea, are essential for signal transduction during chemotaxis and represent the archaeal switch complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengqun Li
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of BiologyUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | | | - Sonja‐Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Faculty of BiologyUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Tessa E. F. Quax
- Archaeal Virus–Host Interactions, Faculty of BiologyUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
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14
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Stachler AE, Wörtz J, Alkhnbashi OS, Turgeman-Grott I, Smith R, Allers T, Backofen R, Gophna U, Marchfelder A. Adaptation induced by self-targeting in a type I-B CRISPR-Cas system. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:13502-13515. [PMID: 32723866 PMCID: PMC7521656 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.014030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Haloferax volcanii is, to our knowledge, the only prokaryote known to tolerate CRISPR-Cas-mediated damage to its genome in the WT background; the resulting cleavage of the genome is repaired by homologous recombination restoring the WT version. In mutant Haloferax strains with enhanced self-targeting, cell fitness decreases and microhomology-mediated end joining becomes active, generating deletions in the targeted gene. Here we use self-targeting to investigate adaptation in H. volcanii CRISPR-Cas type I-B. We show that self-targeting and genome breakage events that are induced by self-targeting, such as those catalyzed by active transposases, can generate DNA fragments that are used by the CRISPR-Cas adaptation machinery for integration into the CRISPR loci. Low cellular concentrations of self-targeting crRNAs resulted in acquisition of large numbers of spacers originating from the entire genomic DNA. In contrast, high concentrations of self-targeting crRNAs resulted in lower acquisition that was mostly centered on the targeting site. Furthermore, we observed naïve spacer acquisition at a low level in WT Haloferax cells and with higher efficiency upon overexpression of the Cas proteins Cas1, Cas2, and Cas4. Taken together, these findings indicate that naïve adaptation is a regulated process in H. volcanii that operates at low basal levels and is induced by DNA breaks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Omer S Alkhnbashi
- Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Israela Turgeman-Grott
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rachel Smith
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Thorsten Allers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Rolf Backofen
- Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Uri Gophna
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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15
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Pyatibratov MG, Syutkin AS, Quax TEF, Melnik TN, Papke RT, Gogarten JP, Kireev II, Surin AK, Beznosov SN, Galeva AV, Fedorov OV. Interaction of two strongly divergent archaellins stabilizes the structure of the Halorubrum archaellum. Microbiologyopen 2020; 9:e1047. [PMID: 32352651 PMCID: PMC7349177 DOI: 10.1002/mbo3.1047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Halophilic archaea from the genus Halorubrum possess two extraordinarily diverged archaellin genes, flaB1 and flaB2. To clarify roles for each archaellin, we compared two natural Halorubrum lacusprofundi strains: One of them contains both archaellin genes, and the other has the flaB2 gene only. Both strains synthesize functional archaella; however, the strain, where both archaellins are present, is more motile. In addition, we expressed these archaellins in a Haloferax volcanii strain from which the endogenous archaellin genes were deleted. Three Hfx. volcanii strains expressing Hrr. lacusprofundi archaellins produced functional filaments consisting of only one (FlaB1 or FlaB2) or both (FlaB1/FlaB2) archaellins. All three strains were motile, although there were profound differences in the efficiency of motility. Both native and recombinant FlaB1/FlaB2 filaments have greater thermal stability and resistance to low salinity stress than single‐component filaments. Functional supercoiled Hrr. lacusprofundi archaella can be composed of either single archaellin: FlaB2 or FlaB1; however, the two divergent archaellin subunits provide additional stabilization to the archaellum structure and thus adaptation to a wider range of external conditions. Comparative genomic analysis suggests that the described combination of divergent archaellins is not restricted to Hrr. lacusprofundi, but is occurring also in organisms from other haloarchaeal genera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail G Pyatibratov
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - Alexey S Syutkin
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - Tessa E F Quax
- Archaeal Virus-Host Interactions, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tatjana N Melnik
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - R Thane Papke
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Johann Peter Gogarten
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Igor I Kireev
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-chemical Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey K Surin
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia.,Pushchino Branch, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia.,State Research Center for Applied Microbiology & Biotechnology, Obolensk, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - Sergei N Beznosov
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - Anna V Galeva
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - Oleg V Fedorov
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
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16
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Zheng Y, Li J, Wang B, Han J, Hao Y, Wang S, Ma X, Yang S, Ma L, Yi L, Peng W. Endogenous Type I CRISPR-Cas: From Foreign DNA Defense to Prokaryotic Engineering. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:62. [PMID: 32195227 PMCID: PMC7064716 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Establishment of production platforms through prokaryotic engineering in microbial organisms would be one of the most efficient means for chemicals, protein, and biofuels production. Despite the fact that CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)–based technologies have readily emerged as powerful and versatile tools for genetic manipulations, their applications are generally limited in prokaryotes, possibly owing to the large size and severe cytotoxicity of the heterogeneous Cas (CRISPR-associated) effector. Nevertheless, the rich natural occurrence of CRISPR-Cas systems in many bacteria and most archaea holds great potential for endogenous CRISPR-based prokaryotic engineering. The endogenous CRISPR-Cas systems, with type I systems that constitute the most abundant and diverse group, would be repurposed as genetic manipulation tools once they are identified and characterized as functional in their native hosts. This article reviews the major progress made in understanding the mechanisms of invading DNA immunity by type I CRISPR-Cas and summarizes the practical applications of endogenous type I CRISPR-based toolkits for prokaryotic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Baiyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiamei Han
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yile Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shengchen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangdong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shihui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lixin Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenfang Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, China
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17
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Wittig S, Songailiene I, Schmidt C. Formation and Stoichiometry of CRISPR-Cascade Complexes with Varying Spacer Lengths Revealed by Native Mass Spectrometry. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2020; 31:538-546. [PMID: 32008319 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.9b00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The adaptive immune system of bacteria and archaea against viral DNA is based on clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) which are encoded in the host genome and translated into CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs) containing single spacer sequences complementary to foreign DNA. crRNAs assemble with CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins forming surveillance complexes that base-pair with viral DNA and mediate its degradation. As specificity of degradation is provided by the crRNA spacer sequence, genetic engineering of the CRISPR system has emerged as a popular molecular tool, for instance, in gene silencing and programmed DNA degradation. Elongating or shortening the crRNA spacer sequence are therefore promising ventures to modify specificity toward the target DNA. However, even though the stoichiometry of wild-type complexes is well established, it is unknown how variations in crRNA spacer length affect their stoichiometry. The CRISPR-associated antiviral defense surveillance complexes of Streptococcus thermophilus (StCascade complexes) contain crRNA and five protein subunits. Using native mass spectrometry, we studied the formation and stoichiometry of StCascade complexes assembled on a set of crRNAs with different spacer lengths. We assigned all relevant complexes and gained insights into the stoichiometry of the complexes as well as their preferred assembly. We found that stable complexes, which incorporate or lose a (Cas7)2(Cse2)1-module, assemble on crRNA varied in length by 12-nucleotide units, while varying crRNA length in six-nucleotide units results in heterogeneous mixtures of complexes. Combining our results from the various variants, we generated an assembly pathway revealing general features of I-E type Cascade complex formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Wittig
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Institute for Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Strasse 3a, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Inga Songailiene
- Department of Protein-DNA Interactions, Institute of Biotechnology, Vilnius University, 7 Saulėtekio Avenue, 10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Carla Schmidt
- Interdisciplinary Research Center HALOmem, Charles Tanford Protein Center, Institute for Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Strasse 3a, 06120 Halle, Germany
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18
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Behler J, Hess WR. Approaches to study CRISPR RNA biogenesis and the key players involved. Methods 2020; 172:12-26. [PMID: 31325492 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins provide an inheritable and adaptive immune system against phages and foreign genetic elements in many bacteria and archaea. The three stages of CRISPR-Cas immunity comprise adaptation, CRISPR RNA (crRNA) biogenesis and interference. The maturation of the pre-crRNA into mature crRNAs, short guide RNAs that target invading nucleic acids, is crucial for the functionality of CRISPR-Cas defense systems. Mature crRNAs assemble with Cas proteins into the ribonucleoprotein (RNP) effector complex and guide the Cas nucleases to the cognate foreign DNA or RNA target. Experimental approaches to characterize these crRNAs, the specific steps toward their maturation and the involved factors, include RNA-seq analyses, enzyme assays, methods such as cryo-electron microscopy, the crystallization of proteins, or UV-induced protein-RNA crosslinking coupled to mass spectrometry analysis. Complex and multiple interactions exist between CRISPR-cas-encoded specific riboendonucleases such as Cas6, Cas5d and Csf5, endonucleases with dual functions in maturation and interference such as the enzymes of the Cas12 and Cas13 families, and nucleases belonging to the cell's degradosome such as RNase E, PNPase and RNase J, both in the maturation as well as in interference. The results of these studies have yielded a picture of unprecedented diversity of sequences, enzymes and biochemical mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Behler
- University of Freiburg, Faculty of Biology, Genetics and Experimental Bioinformatics, Schänzlestr. 1, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang R Hess
- University of Freiburg, Faculty of Biology, Genetics and Experimental Bioinformatics, Schänzlestr. 1, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany; University of Freiburg, Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies, Albertstr. 19, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany.
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19
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Alkhnbashi OS, Meier T, Mitrofanov A, Backofen R, Voß B. CRISPR-Cas bioinformatics. Methods 2020; 172:3-11. [PMID: 31326596 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and their associated proteins (Cas) are essential genetic elements in many archaeal and bacterial genomes, playing a key role in a prokaryote adaptive immune system against invasive foreign elements. In recent years, the CRISPR-Cas system has also been engineered to facilitate target gene editing in eukaryotic genomes. Bioinformatics played an essential role in the detection and analysis of CRISPR systems and here we review the bioinformatics-based efforts that pushed the field of CRISPR-Cas research further. We discuss the bioinformatics tools that have been published over the last few years and, finally, present the most popular tools for the design of CRISPR-Cas9 guides.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tobias Meier
- Computational Biology, Institute of Biochemical Engineering, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | | | - Rolf Backofen
- Chair of Bioinformatics, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Björn Voß
- Computational Biology, Institute of Biochemical Engineering, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
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20
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Stachler AE, Schwarz TS, Schreiber S, Marchfelder A. CRISPRi as an efficient tool for gene repression in archaea. Methods 2020; 172:76-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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21
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Haque RU, Paradisi F, Allers T. Haloferax volcanii for biotechnology applications: challenges, current state and perspectives. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 104:1371-1382. [PMID: 31863144 PMCID: PMC6985049 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-10314-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Haloferax volcanii is an obligate halophilic archaeon with its origin in the Dead Sea. Simple laboratory culture conditions and a wide range of genetic tools have made it a model organism for studying haloarchaeal cell biology. Halophilic enzymes of potential interest to biotechnology have opened up the application of this organism in biocatalysis, bioremediation, nanobiotechnology, bioplastics and the biofuel industry. Functionally active halophilic proteins can be easily expressed in a halophilic environment, and an extensive genetic toolkit with options for regulated protein overexpression has allowed the purification of biotechnologically important enzymes from different halophiles in H. volcanii. However, corrosion mediated damage caused to stainless-steel bioreactors by high salt concentrations and a tendency to form biofilms when cultured in high volume are some of the challenges of applying H. volcanii in biotechnology. The ability to employ expressed active proteins in immobilized cells within a porous biocompatible matrix offers new avenues for exploiting H. volcanii in biotechnology. This review critically evaluates the various application potentials, challenges and toolkits available for using this extreme halophilic organism in biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- R U Haque
- School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.,School of Chemistry, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK.,Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre, School of Life Sciences, Gibbet Hill Campus, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - F Paradisi
- School of Chemistry, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Freiestrasse 3, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - T Allers
- School of Life Sciences, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
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22
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Abstract
The prokaryote-derived CRISPR-Cas genome editing systems have transformed our ability to manipulate, detect, image and annotate specific DNA and RNA sequences in living cells of diverse species. The ease of use and robustness of this technology have revolutionized genome editing for research ranging from fundamental science to translational medicine. Initial successes have inspired efforts to discover new systems for targeting and manipulating nucleic acids, including those from Cas9, Cas12, Cascade and Cas13 orthologues. Genome editing by CRISPR-Cas can utilize non-homologous end joining and homology-directed repair for DNA repair, as well as single-base editing enzymes. In addition to targeting DNA, CRISPR-Cas-based RNA-targeting tools are being developed for research, medicine and diagnostics. Nuclease-inactive and RNA-targeting Cas proteins have been fused to a plethora of effector proteins to regulate gene expression, epigenetic modifications and chromatin interactions. Collectively, the new advances are considerably improving our understanding of biological processes and are propelling CRISPR-Cas-based tools towards clinical use in gene and cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Pickar-Oliver
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Charles A Gersbach
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
- Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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23
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Verma R, Sahu R, Singh DD, Egbo TE. A CRISPR/Cas9 based polymeric nanoparticles to treat/inhibit microbial infections. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 96:44-52. [PMID: 30986568 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The latest breakthrough towards the adequate and decisive methods of gene editing tools provided by CRISPR/Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat/CRISPR Associated System), has been repurposed into a tool for genetically engineering eukaryotic cells and now considered as the major innovation in gene-related disorders. Nanotechnology has provided an alternate way to overcome the conventional problems where methods to deliver therapeutic agents have failed. The use of nanotechnology has the potential to safe-side the CRISPR/Cas9 components delivery by using customized polymeric nanoparticles for safety and efficacy. The pairing of two (CRISPR/Cas9 and nanotechnology) has the potential for opening new avenues in therapeutic use. In this review, we will discuss the most recent advances in developing nanoparticle-based CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing cargo delivery with a focus on several polymeric nanoparticles including fabrication proposals to combat microbial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Verma
- Center for Nanobiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
| | - Rajnish Sahu
- Center for Nanobiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
| | - Desh Deepak Singh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303002, India
| | - Timothy E Egbo
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA.
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24
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Baliga P, Shekar M, Venugopal MN. Detection and characterization of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-associated endoribonuclease gene variants in Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolated from seafoods and environment. Vet World 2019; 12:689-695. [PMID: 31327905 PMCID: PMC6584859 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2019.689-695] [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: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: In Vibrio parahaemolyticus, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-associated cas6 endoribonuclease gene has been shown to exhibit sequence diversity and has been subtyped into four major types based on its length and composition. In this study, we aimed to detect and characterize the cas6 gene variants prevalent among V. parahaemolyticus strains isolated from seafoods and environment. Materials and Methods: Novel primers were designed for each of the cas6 subtypes to validate their identification in V. parahaemolyticus by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In total, 38 V. parahaemolyticus strains isolated from seafoods and environment were screened for the presence of cas6 gene. Few representative PCR products were sequenced, and their phylogenetic relationship was established to available cas6 gene sequences in GenBank database. Results: Of the 38 V. parahaemolyticus isolates screened, only about 40% of strains harbored the cas6 endoribonuclease gene, among which 31.6% and 7.9% of the isolates were positive for the presence of the cas6-a and cas6-d subtypes of the gene, respectively. The subtypes cas6-b and cas6-c were absent in strains studied. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis also established the cas6 sequences in this study to match GenBank sequences for cas6-a and cas6-d subtypes. Conclusion: In V. parahaemolyticus, the Cas6 endoribonuclease is an associated protein of the CRISPR-cas system. CRISPR-positive strains exhibited genotypic variation for this gene. Primers designed in this study would aid in identifying the cas6 genotype and understanding the role of these genotypes in the CRISPR-cas immune system of the pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallavi Baliga
- Department of Fisheries Microbiology, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Malathi Shekar
- Department of Fisheries Microbiology, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Moleyur Nagarajappa Venugopal
- Department of Fisheries Microbiology, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
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25
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Abstract
Archaea are ubiquitous single cellular microorganisms that play important ecological roles in nature. The intracellular organization of archaeal cells is among the unresolved mysteries of archaeal biology. With this work, we show that cells of haloarchaea are polarized. The cellular positioning of proteins involved in chemotaxis and motility is spatially and temporally organized in these cells. This suggests the presence of a specific mechanism responsible for the positioning of macromolecular protein complexes in archaea. Bacteria and archaea exhibit tactical behavior and can move up and down chemical gradients. This tactical behavior relies on a motility structure, which is guided by a chemosensory system. Environmental signals are sensed by membrane-inserted chemosensory receptors that are organized in large ordered arrays. While the cellular positioning of the chemotaxis machinery and that of the flagellum have been studied in detail in bacteria, we have little knowledge about the localization of such macromolecular assemblies in archaea. Although the archaeal motility structure, the archaellum, is fundamentally different from the flagellum, archaea have received the chemosensory machinery from bacteria and have connected this system with the archaellum. Here, we applied a combination of time-lapse imaging and fluorescence and electron microscopy using the model euryarchaeon Haloferax volcanii and found that archaella were specifically present at the cell poles of actively dividing rod-shaped cells. The chemosensory arrays also had a polar preference, but in addition, several smaller arrays moved freely in the lateral membranes. In the stationary phase, rod-shaped cells became round and chemosensory arrays were disassembled. The positioning of archaella and that of chemosensory arrays are not interdependent and likely require an independent form of positioning machinery. This work showed that, in the rod-shaped haloarchaeal cells, the positioning of the archaellum and of the chemosensory arrays is regulated in time and in space. These insights into the cellular organization of H. volcanii suggest the presence of an active mechanism responsible for the positioning of macromolecular protein complexes in archaea.
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26
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Braun F, Thomalla L, van der Does C, Quax TEF, Allers T, Kaever V, Albers SV. Cyclic nucleotides in archaea: Cyclic di-AMP in the archaeon Haloferax volcanii and its putative role. Microbiologyopen 2019; 8:e00829. [PMID: 30884174 PMCID: PMC6741144 DOI: 10.1002/mbo3.829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of cyclic nucleotides as second messengers for intracellular signal transduction has been well described in bacteria. One recently discovered bacterial second messenger is cyclic di‐adenylate monophosphate (c‐di‐AMP), which has been demonstrated to be essential in bacteria. Compared to bacteria, significantly less is known about second messengers in archaea. This study presents the first evidence of in vivo presence of c‐di‐AMP in an archaeon. The model organism Haloferax volcanii was demonstrated to produce c‐di‐AMP. Its genome encodes one diadenylate cyclase (DacZ) which was shown to produce c‐di‐AMP in vitro. Similar to bacteria, the dacZ gene is essential and homologous overexpression of DacZ leads to cell death, suggesting the need for tight regulation of c‐di‐AMP levels. Such tight regulation often indicates the control of important regulatory processes. A central target of c‐di‐AMP signaling in bacteria is cellular osmohomeostasis. The results presented here suggest a comparable function in H. volcanii. A strain with decreased c‐di‐AMP levels exhibited an increased cell area in hypo‐salt medium, implying impaired osmoregulation. In summary, this study expands the field of research on c‐di‐AMP and its physiological function to archaea and indicates that osmoregulation is likely to be a common function of c‐di‐AMP in bacteria and archaea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Braun
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Laura Thomalla
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Chris van der Does
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tessa E F Quax
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Allers
- School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Volkhard Kaever
- Research Core Unit Metabolomics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sonja-Verena Albers
- Molecular Biology of Archaea, Institute of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Pervasive acquisition of CRISPR memory driven by inter-species mating of archaea can limit gene transfer and influence speciation. Nat Microbiol 2018; 4:177-186. [PMID: 30478289 PMCID: PMC6298592 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-018-0302-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas systems provide prokaryotes with sequence-specific immunity against viruses and plasmids, based on DNA acquired from these invaders, known as spacers. Surprisingly, many archaea possess spacers that match chromosomal genes of related species, including those encoding core housekeeping genes. By sequencing genomes of environmental archaea isolated from a single site, we demonstrate that inter-species spacers are common. We show experimentally by mating Haloferax volcanii and Haloferax mediterranei, that spacers are indeed acquired chromosome-wide, although a preference for integrated mobile elements and nearby regions of the chromosome exists. Inter-species mating induces increased spacer acquisition and may result in interactions between the acquisition machinery of the two species. Surprisingly, many of the spacers acquired following inter-species mating target self-replicons along with those originating from the mating partner, indicating that the acquisition machinery cannot distinguish self from non-self under these conditions. Engineering the chromosome of one species to be targeted by the other's CRISPR-Cas reduces gene exchange between them substantially. Thus, spacers acquired during inter-species mating could limit future gene transfer, resulting in a role for CRISPR-Cas systems in microbial speciation.
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28
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Investigation of direct repeats, spacers and proteins associated with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) system of Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Mol Genet Genomics 2018; 294:253-262. [PMID: 30357478 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-018-1504-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a ubiquitous bacterium of the marine environment is an important food-borne pathogen responsible for gastroenteritis worldwide. In this study, we aimed to investigate the occurrence and diversity of the CRISPR-Cas system in V. parahaemolyticus genomes using a bioinformatics approach. The CRISPR-Cas system functions as an adaptive immune system in prokaryotes that provides immunity against foreign genetic elements. In total, 570 genomes V. parahaemolyticus genomes were analyzed of which 200 confirmed for the presence of CRISPR-Cas system. The CRISPR-Cas loci were further analyzed for their repeats, spacers and associated Cas proteins. Among the 200 V. parahaemolyticus strains analyzed, 16 (8%) strains possessed the CRISPR-Cas system of complete subtype I-F, while the remaining 184 (92%) harbored the minimalistic type, a subtype I-F variant. Orphan CRISPR repeats and Cas genes were found in one strain each. The CRISPR-associated direct repeat had an unit length of 28 bases. The number of repeat units in each array ranged from 3 to 5 or 5-41 depending on whether they belonged to the minimalistic or complete subtype-IF CRISPR-Cas system, respectively. Of the 768 spacers analyzed in this study, 295 were found to be unique to V. parahaemolyticus. Homology analysis of the conserved spacers revealed matches to plasmids, phages and gut viruses and self chromosomes. Among the CRISPR-associated proteins, Cas5 and Cas7 proteins were found to be conserved. However, variations were seen in the Cas6 protein, which could be grouped into four different types based on their protein length as well as amino acid composition. We present here the diversity and main features of the CRISPR-Cas system in V. parahaemolyticus, which could provide valuable insights in elucidating the role and mechanism of CRISPR/Cas elements in this pathogen.
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29
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Majumdar S, Terns MP. CRISPR RNA-guided DNA cleavage by reconstituted Type I-A immune effector complexes. Extremophiles 2018; 23:19-33. [PMID: 30284045 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-018-1057-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Diverse CRISPR-Cas immune systems protect archaea and bacteria from viruses and other mobile genetic elements. All CRISPR-Cas systems ultimately function by sequence-specific destruction of invading complementary nucleic acids. However, each CRISPR system uses compositionally distinct crRNP [CRISPR (cr) RNA/Cas protein] immune effector complexes to recognize and destroy invasive nucleic acids by unique molecular mechanisms. Previously, we found that Type I-A (Csa) effector crRNPs from Pyrococcus furiosus function in vivo to eliminate invader DNA. Here, we reconstituted functional Type I-A effector crRNPs in vitro with recombinant Csa proteins and synthetic crRNA and characterized properties of crRNP assembly, target DNA recognition and cleavage. Six proteins (Csa 4-1, Cas3″, Cas3', Cas5a, Csa2, Csa5) are essential for selective target DNA binding and cleavage. Native gel shift analysis and UV-induced RNA-protein crosslinking demonstrate that Cas5a and Csa2 directly interact with crRNA 5' tag and guide sequences, respectively. Mutational analysis revealed that Cas3″ is the effector nuclease of the complex. Together, our results indicate that DNA cleavage by Type I-A crRNPs requires crRNA-guided and protospacer adjacent motif-dependent target DNA binding to unwind double-stranded DNA and expose single strands for progressive ATP-dependent 3'-5' cleavage catalyzed by integral Cas3' helicase and Cas3″ nuclease crRNP components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Majumdar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Michael P Terns
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA. .,Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA. .,Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
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30
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Maier LK, Stachler AE, Brendel J, Stoll B, Fischer S, Haas KA, Schwarz TS, Alkhnbashi OS, Sharma K, Urlaub H, Backofen R, Gophna U, Marchfelder A. The nuts and bolts of the Haloferax CRISPR-Cas system I-B. RNA Biol 2018; 16:469-480. [PMID: 29649958 PMCID: PMC6546412 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2018.1460994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Invading genetic elements pose a constant threat to prokaryotic survival, requiring an effective defence. Eleven years ago, the arsenal of known defence mechanisms was expanded by the discovery of the CRISPR-Cas system. Although CRISPR-Cas is present in the majority of archaea, research often focuses on bacterial models. Here, we provide a perspective based on insights gained studying CRISPR-Cas system I-B of the archaeon Haloferax volcanii. The system relies on more than 50 different crRNAs, whose stability and maintenance critically depend on the proteins Cas5 and Cas7, which bind the crRNA and form the Cascade complex. The interference machinery requires a seed sequence and can interact with multiple PAM sequences. H. volcanii stands out as the first example of an organism that can tolerate autoimmunity via the CRISPR-Cas system while maintaining a constitutively active system. In addition, the H. volcanii system was successfully developed into a tool for gene regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Karina A Haas
- a Biology II, Ulm University , Ulm , Germany.,b Microbiology and Biotechnology, Ulm University , Ulm , Germany
| | | | - Omer S Alkhnbashi
- c Freiburg Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science , University of Freiburg , Georges-Köhler-Allee 106, Freiburg , Germany
| | - Kundan Sharma
- e Max Planck Institute of Biophysical Chemistry , Am Faßberg 11, Göttingen , Germany.,f Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Oxford , Oxford , United Kingdom
| | - Henning Urlaub
- e Max Planck Institute of Biophysical Chemistry , Am Faßberg 11, Göttingen , Germany.,g Institute for Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Göttingen , Robert Koch Straße 10, Göttingen , Germany
| | - Rolf Backofen
- c Freiburg Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science , University of Freiburg , Georges-Köhler-Allee 106, Freiburg , Germany.,d Centre for Biological Signalling Studies (BIOSS), Cluster of Excellence, University of Freiburg , Germany
| | - Uri Gophna
- h School of Molecular Cell Biology & Biotechnology, George S. Wise, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University , Tel Aviv , Israel
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31
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Abstract
Motility is a central feature of many microorganisms and provides an efficient strategy to respond to environmental changes. Bacteria and archaea have developed fundamentally different rotary motors enabling their motility, termed flagellum and archaellum, respectively. Bacterial motility along chemical gradients, called chemotaxis, critically relies on the response regulator CheY, which, when phosphorylated, inverses the rotational direction of the flagellum via a switch complex at the base of the motor. The structural difference between archaellum and flagellum and the presence of functional CheY in archaea raises the question of how the CheY protein changed to allow communication with the archaeal motility machinery. Here we show that archaeal CheY shares the overall structure and mechanism of magnesium-dependent phosphorylation with its bacterial counterpart. However, bacterial and archaeal CheY differ in the electrostatic potential of the helix α4. The helix α4 is important in bacteria for interaction with the flagellar switch complex, a structure that is absent in archaea. We demonstrated that phosphorylation-dependent activation, and conserved residues in the archaeal CheY helix α4, are important for interaction with the archaeal-specific adaptor protein CheF. This forms a bridge between the chemotaxis system and the archaeal motility machinery. Conclusively, archaeal CheY proteins conserved the central mechanistic features between bacteria and archaea, but differ in the helix α4 to allow binding to an archaellum-specific interaction partner.
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32
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Schavemaker PE, Śmigiel WM, Poolman B. Ribosome surface properties may impose limits on the nature of the cytoplasmic proteome. eLife 2017; 6:e30084. [PMID: 29154755 PMCID: PMC5726854 DOI: 10.7554/elife.30084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Much of the molecular motion in the cytoplasm is diffusive, which possibly limits the tempo of processes. We studied the dependence of protein mobility on protein surface properties and ionic strength. We used surface-modified fluorescent proteins (FPs) and determined their translational diffusion coefficients (D) in the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli, Lactococcus lactis and Haloferax volcanii. We find that in E. coli D depends on the net charge and its distribution over the protein, with positive proteins diffusing up to 100-fold slower than negative ones. This effect is weaker in L. lactis and Hfx. volcanii due to electrostatic screening. The decrease in mobility is probably caused by interaction of positive FPs with ribosomes as shown in in vivo diffusion measurements and confirmed in vitro with purified ribosomes. Ribosome surface properties may thus limit the composition of the cytoplasmic proteome. This finding lays bare a paradox in the functioning of prokaryotic (endo)symbionts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bert Poolman
- Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology InstituteUniversity of GroningenGroningenNetherlands
- Zernike Institute for Advanced MaterialsUniversity of GroningenGroningenNetherlands
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33
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Stachler AE, Turgeman-Grott I, Shtifman-Segal E, Allers T, Marchfelder A, Gophna U. High tolerance to self-targeting of the genome by the endogenous CRISPR-Cas system in an archaeon. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:5208-5216. [PMID: 28334774 PMCID: PMC5435918 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas systems allow bacteria and archaea to acquire sequence-specific immunity against selfish genetic elements such as viruses and plasmids, by specific degradation of invader DNA or RNA. However, this involves the risk of autoimmunity if immune memory against host DNA is mistakenly acquired. Such autoimmunity has been shown to be highly toxic in several bacteria and is believed to be one of the major costs of maintaining these defense systems. Here we generated an experimental system in which a non-essential gene, required for pigment production and the reddish colony color, is targeted by the CRISPR-Cas I-B system of the halophilic archaeon Haloferax volcanii. We show that under native conditions, where both the self-targeting and native crRNAs are expressed, self-targeting by CRISPR-Cas causes no reduction in transformation efficiency of the plasmid encoding the self-targeting crRNA. Furthermore, under such conditions, no effect on organismal growth rate or loss of the reddish colony phenotype due to mutations in the targeted region could be observed. In contrast, in cells deleted for the pre-crRNA processing gene cas6, where only the self-targeting crRNA exists as mature crRNA, self-targeting leads to moderate toxicity and the emergence of deletion mutants. Sequencing of the deletions caused by CRISPR-Cas self targeting indicated DNA repair via microhomology-mediated end joining.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Israela Turgeman-Grott
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978-01, Israel
| | - Ella Shtifman-Segal
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978-01, Israel
| | - Thorsten Allers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | | | - Uri Gophna
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978-01, Israel
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34
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Williams TJ, Liao Y, Ye J, Kuchel RP, Poljak A, Raftery MJ, Cavicchioli R. Cold adaptation of the Antarctic haloarchaea
Halohasta litchfieldiae
and
Halorubrum lacusprofundi. Environ Microbiol 2017; 19:2210-2227. [DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J. Williams
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular SciencesThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
| | - Yan Liao
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular SciencesThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
| | - Jun Ye
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular SciencesThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
- Centre for Marine Bio‐InnovationThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
| | - Rhiannon P. Kuchel
- Electron Microscopy UnitThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
| | - Anne Poljak
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry FacilityThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
| | - Mark J. Raftery
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry FacilityThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
| | - Ricardo Cavicchioli
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular SciencesThe University of New South WalesSydney New South Wales2052 Australia
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35
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Zanello P. The competition between chemistry and biology in assembling iron–sulfur derivatives. Molecular structures and electrochemistry. Part V. {[Fe4S4](SCysγ)4} proteins. Coord Chem Rev 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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36
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Target DNA recognition and cleavage by a reconstituted Type I-G CRISPR-Cas immune effector complex. Extremophiles 2016; 21:95-107. [PMID: 27582008 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-016-0871-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas immune systems defend prokaryotes against viruses and plasmids. CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs) associate with various CRISPR-associated (Cas) protein modules to form structurally and functionally diverse (Type I-VI) crRNP immune effector complexes. Previously, we identified three, co-existing effector complexes in Pyrococcus furiosus -Type I-A (Csa), Type I-G (Cst), and Type III-B (Cmr)-and demonstrated that each complex functions in vivo to eliminate invader DNA. Here, we reconstitute functional Cst crRNP complexes in vitro from recombinant Cas proteins and synthetic crRNAs and investigate mechanisms of crRNP assembly and invader DNA recognition and destruction. All four known Cst-affiliated Cas proteins (Cas5t, Cst1, Cst2, and Cas3) are required for activity, but each subunit plays a distinct role. Cas5t and Cst2 comprise a minimal set of proteins that selectively interact with crRNA. Further addition of Cst1, enables the four subunit crRNP (Cas5t, Cst1, Cst2, crRNA) to specifically bind complementary, double-stranded DNA targets and to recruit the Cas3 effector nuclease, which catalyzes cleavages at specific sites within the displaced, non-target DNA strand. Our results indicate that Type I-G crRNPs selectively bind target DNA in a crRNA and, protospacer adjacent motif dependent manner to recruit a dedicated Cas3 nuclease for invader DNA destruction.
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37
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Wright AV, Nuñez JK, Doudna JA. Biology and Applications of CRISPR Systems: Harnessing Nature's Toolbox for Genome Engineering. Cell 2016; 164:29-44. [PMID: 26771484 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2015.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 671] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria and archaea possess a range of defense mechanisms to combat plasmids and viral infections. Unique among these are the CRISPR-Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR associated) systems, which provide adaptive immunity against foreign nucleic acids. CRISPR systems function by acquiring genetic records of invaders to facilitate robust interference upon reinfection. In this Review, we discuss recent advances in understanding the diverse mechanisms by which Cas proteins respond to foreign nucleic acids and how these systems have been harnessed for precision genome manipulation in a wide array of organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Addison V Wright
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - James K Nuñez
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Jennifer A Doudna
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute HHMI, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Center for RNA Systems Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Innovative Genomics Initiative, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Physical Biosciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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38
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Stachler AE, Marchfelder A. Gene Repression in Haloarchaea Using the CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats)-Cas I-B System. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:15226-42. [PMID: 27226589 PMCID: PMC4946936 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.724062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas system is used by bacteria and archaea to fend off foreign genetic elements. Since its discovery it has been developed into numerous applications like genome editing and regulation of transcription in eukaryotes and bacteria. For archaea currently no tools for transcriptional repression exist. Because molecular biology analyses in archaea become more and more widespread such a tool is vital for investigating the biological function of essential genes in archaea. Here we use the model archaeon Haloferax volcanii to demonstrate that its endogenous CRISPR-Cas system I-B can be harnessed to repress gene expression in archaea. Deletion of cas3 and cas6b genes results in efficient repression of transcription. crRNAs targeting the promoter region reduced transcript levels down to 8%. crRNAs targeting the reading frame have only slight impact on transcription. crRNAs that target the coding strand repress expression only down to 88%, whereas crRNAs targeting the template strand repress expression down to 8%. Repression of an essential gene results in reduction of transcription levels down to 22%. Targeting efficiencies can be enhanced by expressing a catalytically inactive Cas3 mutant. Genes can be targeted on plasmids or on the chromosome, they can be monocistronic or part of a polycistronic operon.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anita Marchfelder
- From the Department of Biology II, Ulm University, 89069 Ulm, Germany
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39
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Leenay RT, Maksimchuk KR, Slotkowski RA, Agrawal RN, Gomaa AA, Briner AE, Barrangou R, Beisel CL. Identifying and Visualizing Functional PAM Diversity across CRISPR-Cas Systems. Mol Cell 2016; 62:137-47. [PMID: 27041224 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2016.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas adaptive immune systems in prokaryotes boast a diversity of protein families and mechanisms of action, where most systems rely on protospacer-adjacent motifs (PAMs) for DNA target recognition. Here, we developed an in vivo, positive, and tunable screen termed PAM-SCANR (PAM screen achieved by NOT-gate repression) to elucidate functional PAMs as well as an interactive visualization scheme termed the PAM wheel to convey individual PAM sequences and their activities. PAM-SCANR and the PAM wheel identified known functional PAMs while revealing complex sequence-activity landscapes for the Bacillus halodurans I-C (Cascade), Escherichia coli I-E (Cascade), Streptococcus thermophilus II-A CRISPR1 (Cas9), and Francisella novicida V-A (Cpf1) systems. The PAM wheel was also readily applicable to existing high-throughput screens and garnered insights into SpyCas9 and SauCas9 PAM diversity. These tools offer powerful means of elucidating and visualizing functional PAMs toward accelerating our ability to understand and exploit the multitude of CRISPR-Cas systems in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan T Leenay
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Kenneth R Maksimchuk
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Rebecca A Slotkowski
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Roma N Agrawal
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Ahmed A Gomaa
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Chemical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Alexandra E Briner
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Rodolphe Barrangou
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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40
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Luo ML, Leenay RT, Beisel CL. Current and future prospects for CRISPR-based tools in bacteria. Biotechnol Bioeng 2015; 113:930-43. [PMID: 26460902 DOI: 10.1002/bit.25851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas systems have rapidly transitioned from intriguing prokaryotic defense systems to powerful and versatile biomolecular tools. This article reviews how these systems have been translated into technologies to manipulate bacterial genetics, physiology, and communities. Recent applications in bacteria have centered on multiplexed genome editing, programmable gene regulation, and sequence-specific antimicrobials, while future applications can build on advances in eukaryotes, the rich natural diversity of CRISPR-Cas systems, and the untapped potential of CRISPR-based DNA acquisition. Overall, these systems have formed the basis of an ever-expanding genetic toolbox and hold tremendous potential for our future understanding and engineering of the bacterial world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Luo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27695-7905
| | - Ryan T Leenay
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27695-7905
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27695-7905.
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41
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Dwarakanath S, Brenzinger S, Gleditzsch D, Plagens A, Klingl A, Thormann K, Randau L. Interference activity of a minimal Type I CRISPR-Cas system from Shewanella putrefaciens. Nucleic Acids Res 2015; 43:8913-23. [PMID: 26350210 PMCID: PMC4605320 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkv882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Type I CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats)-Cas (CRISPR-associated) systems exist in bacterial and archaeal organisms and provide immunity against foreign DNA. The Cas protein content of the DNA interference complexes (termed Cascade) varies between different CRISPR-Cas subtypes. A minimal variant of the Type I-F system was identified in proteobacterial species including Shewanella putrefaciens CN-32. This variant lacks a large subunit (Csy1), Csy2 and Csy3 and contains two unclassified cas genes. The genome of S. putrefaciens CN-32 contains only five Cas proteins (Cas1, Cas3, Cas6f, Cas1821 and Cas1822) and a single CRISPR array with 81 spacers. RNA-Seq analyses revealed the transcription of this array and the maturation of crRNAs (CRISPR RNAs). Interference assays based on plasmid conjugation demonstrated that this CRISPR-Cas system is active in vivo and that activity is dependent on the recognition of the dinucleotide GG PAM (Protospacer Adjacent Motif) sequence and crRNA abundance. The deletion of cas1821 and cas1822 reduced the cellular crRNA pool. Recombinant Cas1821 was shown to form helical filaments bound to RNA molecules, which suggests its role as the Cascade backbone protein. A Cascade complex was isolated which contained multiple Cas1821 copies, Cas1822, Cas6f and mature crRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srivatsa Dwarakanath
- Prokaryotic Small RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Hessen D-35043, Germany
| | - Susanne Brenzinger
- Institute for Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen D-35392, Germany
| | - Daniel Gleditzsch
- Prokaryotic Small RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Hessen D-35043, Germany
| | - André Plagens
- Prokaryotic Small RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Hessen D-35043, Germany
| | - Andreas Klingl
- Plant Development, Department Biology I, Biocentre LMU Munich, Großhaderner Str. 2-4, Planegg-Martinsried D-82152, Germany
| | - Kai Thormann
- Institute for Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Hessen D-35392, Germany
| | - Lennart Randau
- Prokaryotic Small RNA Biology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Hessen D-35043, Germany LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology (Synmikro), Marburg, Hessen D-35043, Germany
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42
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An updated evolutionary classification of CRISPR-Cas systems. NATURE REVIEWS. MICROBIOLOGY 2015. [PMID: 26411297 DOI: 10.1038/nrmicro3569.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of CRISPR-cas loci, which encode adaptive immune systems in archaea and bacteria, involves rapid changes, in particular numerous rearrangements of the locus architecture and horizontal transfer of complete loci or individual modules. These dynamics complicate straightforward phylogenetic classification, but here we present an approach combining the analysis of signature protein families and features of the architecture of cas loci that unambiguously partitions most CRISPR-cas loci into distinct classes, types and subtypes. The new classification retains the overall structure of the previous version but is expanded to now encompass two classes, five types and 16 subtypes. The relative stability of the classification suggests that the most prevalent variants of CRISPR-Cas systems are already known. However, the existence of rare, currently unclassifiable variants implies that additional types and subtypes remain to be characterized.
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43
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Makarova KS, Wolf YI, Alkhnbashi OS, Costa F, Shah SA, Saunders SJ, Barrangou R, Brouns SJJ, Charpentier E, Haft DH, Horvath P, Moineau S, Mojica FJM, Terns RM, Terns MP, White MF, Yakunin AF, Garrett RA, van der Oost J, Backofen R, Koonin EV. An updated evolutionary classification of CRISPR-Cas systems. Nat Rev Microbiol 2015; 13:722-36. [PMID: 26411297 DOI: 10.1038/nrmicro3569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1538] [Impact Index Per Article: 170.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of CRISPR-cas loci, which encode adaptive immune systems in archaea and bacteria, involves rapid changes, in particular numerous rearrangements of the locus architecture and horizontal transfer of complete loci or individual modules. These dynamics complicate straightforward phylogenetic classification, but here we present an approach combining the analysis of signature protein families and features of the architecture of cas loci that unambiguously partitions most CRISPR-cas loci into distinct classes, types and subtypes. The new classification retains the overall structure of the previous version but is expanded to now encompass two classes, five types and 16 subtypes. The relative stability of the classification suggests that the most prevalent variants of CRISPR-Cas systems are already known. However, the existence of rare, currently unclassifiable variants implies that additional types and subtypes remain to be characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira S Makarova
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20894, USA
| | - Yuri I Wolf
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20894, USA
| | - Omer S Alkhnbashi
- Bioinformatics group, Department of Computer Science, University of Freiberg, Georges-Kohler-Allee 106, 79110 Freiberg, Germany
| | - Fabrizio Costa
- Bioinformatics group, Department of Computer Science, University of Freiberg, Georges-Kohler-Allee 106, 79110 Freiberg, Germany
| | - Shiraz A Shah
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Sita J Saunders
- Bioinformatics group, Department of Computer Science, University of Freiberg, Georges-Kohler-Allee 106, 79110 Freiberg, Germany
| | - Rodolphe Barrangou
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, USA
| | - Stan J J Brouns
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 10, 6703HB Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Emmanuelle Charpentier
- Department of Regulation in Infection Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, D-38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Daniel H Haft
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20894, USA
| | - Philippe Horvath
- DuPont Nutrition and Health, BP10, Dangé-Saint-Romain 86220, France
| | - Sylvain Moineau
- Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-informatique, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale, Félix d'Hérelle Reference Center for Bacterial Viruses, Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Francisco J M Mojica
- Departamento de Fisiología, Genética y Microbiología. Universidad de Alicante. 03080-Alicante, Spain
| | - Rebecca M Terns
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Georgia, Davison Life Sciences Complex, Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Michael P Terns
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Georgia, Davison Life Sciences Complex, Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Malcolm F White
- Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, KY16 9TZ, UK
| | - Alexander F Yakunin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E5, Canada
| | - Roger A Garrett
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - John van der Oost
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 10, 6703HB Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Rolf Backofen
- Bioinformatics group, Department of Computer Science, University of Freiberg, Georges-Kohler-Allee 106, 79110 Freiberg, Germany.,BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, Cluster of Excellence, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eugene V Koonin
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20894, USA
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44
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Hrle A, Maier LK, Sharma K, Ebert J, Basquin C, Urlaub H, Marchfelder A, Conti E. Structural analyses of the CRISPR protein Csc2 reveal the RNA-binding interface of the type I-D Cas7 family. RNA Biol 2015; 11:1072-82. [PMID: 25483036 PMCID: PMC4615900 DOI: 10.4161/rna.29893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Upon pathogen invasion, bacteria and archaea activate an RNA-interference-like mechanism termed CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats). A large family of Cas (CRISPR-associated) proteins mediates the different stages of this sophisticated immune response. Bioinformatic studies have classified the Cas proteins into families, according to their sequences and respective functions. These range from the insertion of the foreign genetic elements into the host genome to the activation of the interference machinery as well as target degradation upon attack. Cas7 family proteins are central to the type I and type III interference machineries as they constitute the backbone of the large interference complexes. Here we report the crystal structure of Thermofilum pendens Csc2, a Cas7 family protein of type I-D. We found that Csc2 forms a core RRM-like domain, flanked by three peripheral insertion domains: a lid domain, a Zinc-binding domain and a helical domain. Comparison with other Cas7 family proteins reveals a set of similar structural features both in the core and in the peripheral domains, despite the absence of significant sequence similarity. T. pendens Csc2 binds single-stranded RNA in vitro in a sequence-independent manner. Using a crosslinking - mass-spectrometry approach, we mapped the RNA-binding surface to a positively charged surface patch on T. pendens Csc2. Thus our analysis of the key structural and functional features of T. pendens Csc2 highlights recurring themes and evolutionary relationships in type I and type III Cas proteins.
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Key Words
- CRISPR
- CRISPR, Clustered regulatory short interspaced palindromic repeats
- Cas, CRISPR-associated
- Cas7
- H1 and H2 and H1-2, β-hairpins of insertion domain 1 (or lid domain)
- Mk, Methanopyrus kandleri
- RAMP, Repeat associated mysterious protein
- RNA binding
- RNAi, RNA interference
- RRM domain
- RRM, RNA recognition motif
- Rmsd, Root mean square deviation
- SAD, Single-wavelength anomalous dispersion
- Ss, Sulfolobus solfataricus
- Tp, Thermofilum pendens
- crRNA, CRISPR RNA
- dCASCADE, interference complex subtype I-D
- eCASCADE, interference complex subtype I-E
- prokaryotic immune system
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajla Hrle
- a Structural Cell Biology Department; Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry ; Martinsried , Germany
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45
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Tschitschko B, Williams TJ, Allen MA, Páez-Espino D, Kyrpides N, Zhong L, Raftery MJ, Cavicchioli R. Antarctic archaea-virus interactions: metaproteome-led analysis of invasion, evasion and adaptation. ISME JOURNAL 2015; 9:2094-107. [PMID: 26125682 DOI: 10.1038/ismej.2015.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Despite knowledge that viruses are abundant in natural ecosystems, there is limited understanding of which viruses infect which hosts, and how both hosts and viruses respond to those interactions-interactions that ultimately shape community structure and dynamics. In Deep Lake, Antarctica, intergenera gene exchange occurs rampantly within the low complexity, haloarchaea-dominated community, strongly balanced by distinctions in niche adaptation which maintain sympatric speciation. By performing metaproteomics for the first time on haloarchaea, genomic variation of S-layer, archaella and other cell surface proteins was linked to mechanisms of infection evasion. CRISPR defense systems were found to be active, with haloarchaea responding to at least eight distinct types of viruses, including those infecting between genera. The role of BREX systems in defending against viruses was also examined. Although evasion and defense were evident, both hosts and viruses also may benefit from viruses carrying and expressing host genes, thereby potentially enhancing genetic variation and phenotypic differences within populations. The data point to a complex inter-play leading to a dynamic optimization of host-virus interactions. This comprehensive overview was achieved only through the integration of results from metaproteomics, genomics and metagenomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Tschitschko
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Timothy J Williams
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle A Allen
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Nikos Kyrpides
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Walnut Creek, CA, USA
| | - Ling Zhong
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark J Raftery
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ricardo Cavicchioli
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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46
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Majumdar S, Zhao P, Pfister NT, Compton M, Olson S, Glover CVC, Wells L, Graveley BR, Terns RM, Terns MP. Three CRISPR-Cas immune effector complexes coexist in Pyrococcus furiosus. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2015; 21:1147-58. [PMID: 25904135 PMCID: PMC4436667 DOI: 10.1261/rna.049130.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas immune systems function to defend prokaryotes against potentially harmful mobile genetic elements including viruses and plasmids. The multiple CRISPR-Cas systems (Types I, II, and III) each target destruction of foreign nucleic acids via structurally and functionally diverse effector complexes (crRNPs). CRISPR-Cas effector complexes are comprised of CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs) that contain sequences homologous to the invading nucleic acids and Cas proteins specific to each immune system type. We have previously characterized a crRNP in Pyrococcus furiosus (Pfu) that contains Cmr (Type III-B) Cas proteins associated with one of two size classes of crRNAs and cleaves complementary target RNAs. Here, we have isolated and characterized two additional native Pfu crRNPs containing either Csa (Type I-A) or Cst (Type I-G) Cas proteins and distinct profiles of associated crRNAs. For each complex, the Cas proteins were identified by mass spectrometry and immunoblotting and the crRNAs by RNA sequencing and Northern blot analysis. The crRNAs associated with both the Csa and Cst complexes originate from all seven Pfu CRISPR loci and contain identical 5' ends (8-nt repeat-derived 5' tag sequences) but heterogeneous 3' ends (containing variable amounts of downstream repeat sequences). These crRNA forms are distinct from Cmr-associated crRNAs, indicating different 3' end processing pathways following primary cleavage of common pre-crRNAs. Like other previously characterized Type I CRISPR-Cas effector complexes, we predict that the newly identified Pfu Csa and Cst crRNPs each function to target invading DNA, adding an additional layer of protection beyond that afforded by the previously characterized RNA targeting Cmr complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Majumdar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Peng Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Neil T Pfister
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Mark Compton
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Sara Olson
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030-6403, USA
| | - Claiborne V C Glover
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Lance Wells
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Brenton R Graveley
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030-6403, USA
| | - Rebecca M Terns
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Michael P Terns
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
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47
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Abstract
CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat) systems provide bacteria and archaea with adaptive immunity to repel invasive genetic elements. Type I systems use 'cascade' [CRISPR-associated (Cas) complex for antiviral defence] ribonucleoprotein complexes to target invader DNA, by base pairing CRISPR RNA (crRNA) to protospacers. Cascade identifies PAMs (protospacer adjacent motifs) on invader DNA, triggering R-loop formation and subsequent DNA degradation by Cas3. Cas8 is a candidate PAM recognition factor in some cascades. We analysed Cas8 homologues from type IB CRISPR systems in archaea Haloferax volcanii (Hvo) and Methanothermobacter thermautotrophicus (Mth). Cas8 was essential for CRISPR interference in Hvo and purified Mth Cas8 protein responded to PAM sequence when binding to nucleic acids. Cas8 interacted physically with Cas5-Cas7-crRNA complex, stimulating binding to PAM containing substrates. Mutation of conserved Cas8 amino acid residues abolished interference in vivo and altered catalytic activity of Cas8 protein in vitro. This is experimental evidence that Cas8 is important for targeting Cascade to invader DNA.
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48
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Plagens A, Richter H, Charpentier E, Randau L. DNA and RNA interference mechanisms by CRISPR-Cas surveillance complexes. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2015; 39:442-63. [PMID: 25934119 PMCID: PMC5965380 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuv019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)-Cas (CRISPR-associated) adaptive immune systems use small guide RNAs, the CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs), to mark foreign genetic material, e.g. viral nucleic acids, for degradation. Archaea and bacteria encode a large variety of Cas proteins that bind crRNA molecules and build active ribonucleoprotein surveillance complexes. The evolution of CRISPR-Cas systems has resulted in a diversification of cas genes and a classification of the systems into three types and additional subtypes characterized by distinct surveillance and interfering complexes. Recent crystallographic and biochemical advances have revealed detailed insights into the assembly and DNA/RNA targeting mechanisms of the various complexes. Here, we review our knowledge on the molecular mechanism involved in the DNA and RNA interference stages of type I (Cascade: CRISPR-associated complex for antiviral defense), type II (Cas9) and type III (Csm, Cmr) CRISPR-Cas systems. We further highlight recently reported structural and mechanistic themes shared among these systems. This review details and compares the assembly and the DNA/RNA targeting mechanisms of the various surveillance complexes of prokaryotic CRISPR-Cas immune systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Plagens
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Strasse 10, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Hagen Richter
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Department of Regulation in Infection Biology, Braunschweig 38124, Germany
| | - Emmanuelle Charpentier
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Department of Regulation in Infection Biology, Braunschweig 38124, Germany The Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR), Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, Umeå 90187, Sweden Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Lennart Randau
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Strasse 10, 35043 Marburg, Germany
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49
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Abstract
Bacterial strains carrying nonsense suppressor tRNA genes played a crucial role in early work on bacterial and bacterial viral genetics. In eukaryotes as well, suppressor tRNAs have played important roles in the genetic analysis of yeast and worms. Surprisingly, little is known about genetic suppression in archaea, and there has been no characterization of suppressor tRNAs or identification of nonsense mutations in any of the archaeal genes. Here, we show, using the β-gal gene as a reporter, that amber, ochre, and opal suppressors derived from the serine and tyrosine tRNAs of the archaeon Haloferax volcanii are active in suppression of their corresponding stop codons. Using a promoter for tRNA expression regulated by tryptophan, we also show inducible and regulatable suppression of all three stop codons in H. volcanii. Additionally, transformation of a ΔpyrE2 H. volcanii strain with plasmids carrying the genes for a pyrE2 amber mutant and the serine amber suppressor tRNA yielded transformants that grow on agar plates lacking uracil. Thus, an auxotrophic amber mutation in the pyrE2 gene can be complemented by expression of the amber suppressor tRNA. These results pave the way for generating archaeal strains carrying inducible suppressor tRNA genes on the chromosome and their use in archaeal and archaeviral genetics. We also provide possible explanations for why suppressor tRNAs have not been identified in archaea.
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50
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Garrett RA, Shah SA, Erdmann S, Liu G, Mousaei M, León-Sobrino C, Peng W, Gudbergsdottir S, Deng L, Vestergaard G, Peng X, She Q. CRISPR-Cas Adaptive Immune Systems of the Sulfolobales: Unravelling Their Complexity and Diversity. Life (Basel) 2015; 5:783-817. [PMID: 25764276 PMCID: PMC4390879 DOI: 10.3390/life5010783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sulfolobales have provided good model organisms for studying CRISPR-Cas systems of the crenarchaeal kingdom of the archaea. These organisms are infected by a wide range of exceptional archaea-specific viruses and conjugative plasmids, and their CRISPR-Cas systems generally exhibit extensive structural and functional diversity. They carry large and multiple CRISPR loci and often multiple copies of diverse Type I and Type III interference modules as well as more homogeneous adaptation modules. These acidothermophilic organisms have recently provided seminal insights into both the adaptation process, the diverse modes of interference, and their modes of regulation. The functions of the adaptation and interference modules tend to be loosely coupled and the stringency of the crRNA-DNA sequence matching during DNA interference is relatively low, in contrast to some more streamlined CRISPR-Cas systems of bacteria. Despite this, there is evidence for a complex and differential regulation of expression of the diverse functional modules in response to viral infection. Recent work also supports critical roles for non-core Cas proteins, especially during Type III-directed interference, and this is consistent with these proteins tending to coevolve with core Cas proteins. Various novel aspects of CRISPR-Cas systems of the Sulfolobales are considered including an alternative spacer acquisition mechanism, reversible spacer acquisition, the formation and significance of antisense CRISPR RNAs, and a novel mechanism for avoidance of CRISPR-Cas defense. Finally, questions regarding the basis for the complexity, diversity, and apparent redundancy, of the intracellular CRISPR-Cas systems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger A Garrett
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Shiraz A Shah
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Susanne Erdmann
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, 2052 Sydney NSW, Australia.
| | - Guannan Liu
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Marzieh Mousaei
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Carlos León-Sobrino
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Wenfang Peng
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Soley Gudbergsdottir
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Ling Deng
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Gisle Vestergaard
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Research Unit Environmental Genomics, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany.
| | - Xu Peng
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Qunxin She
- Archaea Centre, Department of Biology, Copenhagen University, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
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