1
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He B, Ma Y, Tian F, Zhao GR, Wu Y, Yuan YJ. YLC-assembly: large DNA assembly via yeast life cycle. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:8283-8292. [PMID: 37486765 PMCID: PMC10450165 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As an enabling technique of synthetic biology, the scale of DNA assembly largely determines the scale of genetic manipulation. However, large DNA assembly technologies are generally cumbersome and inefficient. Here, we developed a YLC (yeast life cycle)-assembly method that enables in vivo iterative assembly of large DNA by nesting cell-cell transfer of assembled DNA in the cycle of yeast mating and sporulation. Using this method, we successfully assembled a hundred-kilobase (kb)-sized endogenous yeast DNA and a megabase (Mb)-sized exogenous DNA. For each round, over 104 positive colonies per 107 cells could be obtained, with an accuracy ranging from 67% to 100%. Compared with other Mb-sized DNA assembly methods, this method exhibits a higher success rate with an easy-to-operate workflow that avoid in vitro operations of large DNA. YLC-assembly lowers the technical difficulty of Mb-sized DNA assembly and could be a valuable tool for large-scale genome engineering and synthetic genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo He
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Frontiers Research Institute for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Frontiers Research Institute for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Fangfang Tian
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Frontiers Research Institute for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Guang-Rong Zhao
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Frontiers Research Institute for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Frontiers Research Institute for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Ying-Jin Yuan
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Frontiers Research Institute for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
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2
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Kubo S, Niimi H, Kitajima I. Duplex loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay for simultaneous detection of human and human male DNA. BMC Res Notes 2023; 16:180. [PMID: 37608397 PMCID: PMC10464483 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06464-2] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Screening of human and human male DNA is necessary for forensic DNA analyses. Although quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) is commonly used for detecting and quantifying these DNA targets, its use as a screening tool is time-consuming and labor-intensive. To streamline and simplify the screening process, we aimed to develop a duplex loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay capable of simultaneously detecting human and human male DNA in a single tube. We assessed the duplex LAMP assay for forensic application. RESULTS For our duplex LAMP assay, we have utilized two fluorescent probes with HEX and FAM fluorophores to specifically detect human and human male DNA, respectively. The HEX (human target) signal was detected from both the male and female DNA samples, and the FAM (male target) signal was detected from only the male DNA sample. This assay has a sensitivity of 10-1 pg of DNA for both targets. Additionally, we successfully detected the two targets in the DNA samples extracted from forensically relevant body fluids, including blood, saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Kubo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Assembly, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan.
- Forensic Science Laboratory, Ishikawa Prefectural Police Headquarters, 1-1 Kuratsuki, Kanazawa, 920-8553, Japan.
| | - Hideki Niimi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Assembly, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Isao Kitajima
- Administrative Office, University of Toyama, 3190 Gofuku, Toyama, 930-8555, Japan
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3
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Kubo S, Niimi H, Kitajima I. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay for fluorescence analysis and lateral flow detection of male DNA. Anal Biochem 2023; 664:115029. [PMID: 36572215 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.115029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Male DNA screening is important in forensic investigations, such as sexual assault cases. Although quantitative real-time PCR is a robust method for detection of male DNA, it is time-consuming and labor-intensive. We herein report the development of a male DNA-targeted loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay that can be used for both laboratory-based fluorescence analysis and on-site lateral flow detection. The two detection systems are independent, but we streamlined the reaction before the detection by introducing a fluorescence probe and biotin-labeled primer into a single reaction. This allowed the evaluation of fluorescence signal followed by lateral flow detection. Both the fluorescence and lateral flow analyses detected as low as 10 pg of male DNA. We also integrated an alkaline lysis method with our LAMP assay. The direct assay successfully detected male DNA from forensic samples without purification. The workflow requires only <40 min for fluorescence analysis and <45 min for lateral flow detection. Furthermore, when combined with a lateral flow strip, this workflow does not require any sophisticated instruments. These findings suggest that our assay is a promising strategy for on-site male DNA screening as well as laboratory-based testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Kubo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Assembly, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan; Forensic Science Laboratory, Ishikawa Prefectural Police Headquarters, 1-1 Kuratsuki, Kanazawa, 920-8553, Japan.
| | - Hideki Niimi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Assembly, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Isao Kitajima
- Administrative office, University of Toyama, 3190 Gofuku, Toyama, 930-8555, Japan
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4
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Wang Y, Wu L, Yuen KWY. The roles of transcription, chromatin organisation and chromosomal processes in holocentromere establishment and maintenance. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 127:79-89. [PMID: 35042676 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The centromere is a unique functional region on each eukaryotic chromosome where the kinetochore assembles and orchestrates microtubule attachment and chromosome segregation. Unlike monocentromeres that occupy a specific region on the chromosome, holocentromeres are diffused along the length of the chromosome. Despite being less common, holocentromeres have been verified in almost 800 nematode, insect, and plant species. Understanding of the molecular and epigenetic regulation of holocentromeres is lagging that of monocentromeres. Here we review how permissive locations for holocentromeres are determined across the genome, potentially by chromatin organisation, transcription, and non-coding RNAs, specifically in the nematode C. elegans. In addition, we discuss how holocentric CENP-A or CENP-T-containing nucleosomes are recruited and deposited, through the help of histone chaperones, licensing factors, and condensin complexes, both during de novo holocentromere establishment, and in each mitotic cell cycle. The process of resolving sister centromeres after DNA replication in holocentric organisms is also mentioned. Conservation and diversity between holocentric and monocentric organisms are highlighted, and outstanding questions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
| | - Lillian Wu
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong; Epigenetics and Genome Stability Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Wing Yee Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong.
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5
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Kubo S, Niimi H, Kitajima I. Rapid and direct detection of male DNA by recombinase polymerase amplification assay. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2022; 59:102704. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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6
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Nucleosome positioning on large tandem DNA repeats of the ’601’ sequence engineered in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167497. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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7
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Lin Z, Yuen KWY. RbAp46/48LIN-53 and HAT-1 are required for initial CENP-AHCP-3 deposition and de novo holocentromere formation on artificial chromosomes in Caenorhabditis elegans embryos. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:9154-9173. [PMID: 33872374 PMCID: PMC8450102 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Foreign DNA microinjected into the Caenorhabditis elegans syncytial gonad forms episomal extra-chromosomal arrays, or artificial chromosomes (ACs), in embryos. Short, linear DNA fragments injected concatemerize into high molecular weight (HMW) DNA arrays that are visible as punctate DAPI-stained foci in oocytes, and they undergo chromatinization and centromerization in embryos. The inner centromere, inner kinetochore and spindle checkpoint components, including AIR-2, CENP-AHCP-3, Mis18BP1KNL-2 and BUB-1, respectively, assemble onto the nascent ACs during the first mitosis. The DNA replication efficiency of ACs improves over several cell cycles, which correlates with the improvement of kinetochore bi-orientation and proper segregation of ACs. Depletion of condensin II subunits, like CAPG-2 and SMC-4, but not the replicative helicase component, MCM-2, reduces de novo CENP-AHCP-3 level on nascent ACs. Furthermore, H3K9ac, H4K5ac and H4K12ac are highly enriched on newly chromatinized ACs. RbAp46/48LIN-53 and HAT-1, which affect the acetylation of histone H3 and H4, are essential for chromatinization, de novo centromere formation and segregation competency of nascent ACs. RbAp46/48LIN-53 or HAT-1 depletion causes the loss of both CENP-AHCP-3 and Mis18BP1KNL-2 initial deposition at de novo centromeres on ACs. This phenomenon is different from centromere maintenance on endogenous chromosomes, where Mis18BP1KNL-2 functions upstream of RbAp46/48LIN-53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyang Lin
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong. Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
| | - Karen Wing Yee Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong. Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
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8
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Centromere identity and function put to use: construction and transfer of mammalian artificial chromosomes to animal models. Essays Biochem 2021; 64:185-192. [PMID: 32501473 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20190071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian artificial chromosomes (MACs) are widely used as gene expression vectors and have various advantages over conventional expression vectors. We review and discuss breakthroughs in MAC construction, initiation of functional centromeres allowing their faithful inheritance, and transfer from cell culture to animal model systems. These advances have contributed to advancements in synthetic biology, biomedical research, and applications in industry and in the clinic.
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9
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Sinenko SA, Ponomartsev SV, Tomilin AN. Pluripotent stem cell-based gene therapy approach: human de novo synthesized chromosomes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:1207-1220. [PMID: 33011821 PMCID: PMC11072874 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03653-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A novel approach in gene therapy was introduced 20 years ago since artificial non-integrative chromosome-based vectors containing gene loci size inserts were engineered. To date, different human artificial chromosomes (HAC) were generated with the use of de novo construction or "top-down" engineering approaches. The HAC-based therapeutic approach includes ex vivo gene transferring and correction of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) or highly proliferative modified stem cells. The current progress in the technology of induced PSCs, integrating with the HAC technology, resulted in a novel platform of stem cell-based tissue replacement therapy for the treatment of genetic disease. Nowadays, the sophisticated and laborious HAC technology has significantly improved and is now closer to clinical studies. In here, we reviewed the achievements in the technology of de novo synthesized HACs for a chromosome transfer for developing gene therapy tissue replacement models of monogenic human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey A Sinenko
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Tikhoretsky Ave, St-Petersburg, 194064, Russia.
| | - Sergey V Ponomartsev
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Tikhoretsky Ave, St-Petersburg, 194064, Russia
| | - Alexey N Tomilin
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Tikhoretsky Ave, St-Petersburg, 194064, Russia.
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St-Petersburg State University, 7-9, Universitetskaya Emb, St-Petersburg, 199034, Russia.
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10
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Balzano E, Pelliccia F, Giunta S. Genome (in)stability at tandem repeats. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 113:97-112. [PMID: 33109442 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Repeat sequences account for over half of the human genome and represent a significant source of variation that underlies physiological and pathological states. Yet, their study has been hindered due to limitations in short-reads sequencing technology and difficulties in assembly. A important category of repetitive DNA in the human genome is comprised of tandem repeats (TRs), where repetitive units are arranged in a head-to-tail pattern. Compared to other regions of the genome, TRs carry between 10 and 10,000 fold higher mutation rate. There are several mutagenic mechanisms that can give rise to this propensity toward instability, but their precise contribution remains speculative. Given the high degree of homology between these sequences and their arrangement in tandem, once damaged, TRs have an intrinsic propensity to undergo aberrant recombination with non-allelic exchange and generate harmful rearrangements that may undermine the stability of the entire genome. The dynamic mutagenesis at TRs has been found to underlie individual polymorphism associated with neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders, as well as complex genetic diseases like cancer and diabetes. Here, we review our current understanding of the surveillance and repair mechanisms operating within these regions, and we describe how alterations in these protective processes can readily trigger mutational signatures found at TRs, ultimately resulting in the pathological correlation between TRs instability and human diseases. Finally, we provide a viewpoint to counter the detrimental effects that TRs pose in light of their selection and conservation, as important drivers of human evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Balzano
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Charles Darwin", Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Franca Pelliccia
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Charles Darwin", Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Simona Giunta
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Charles Darwin", Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Roma, Italy.
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11
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Human Alphoid tetO Artificial Chromosome as a Gene Therapy Vector for the Developing Hemophilia A Model in Mice. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040879. [PMID: 32260189 PMCID: PMC7226776 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs), including the de novo synthesized alphoidtetO-HAC, are a powerful tool for introducing genes of interest into eukaryotic cells. HACs are mitotically stable, non-integrative episomal units that have a large transgene insertion capacity and allow efficient and stable transgene expression. Previously, we have shown that the alphoidtetO-HAC vector does not interfere with the pluripotent state and provides stable transgene expression in human induced pluripotent cells (iPSCs) and mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). In this study, we have elaborated on a mouse model of ex vivo iPSC- and HAC-based treatment of hemophilia A monogenic disease. iPSCs were developed from FVIIIY/− mutant mice fibroblasts and FVIII cDNA, driven by a ubiquitous promoter, was introduced into the alphoidtetO-HAC in hamster CHO cells. Subsequently, the therapeutic alphoidtetO-HAC-FVIII was transferred into the FVIIIY/– iPSCs via the retro-microcell-mediated chromosome transfer method. The therapeutic HAC was maintained as an episomal non-integrative vector in the mouse iPSCs, showing a constitutive FVIII expression. This study is the first step towards treatment development for hemophilia A monogenic disease with the use of a new generation of the synthetic chromosome vector—the alphoidtetO-HAC.
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12
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Sinenko SA, Ponomartsev SV, Tomilin AN. Human artificial chromosomes for pluripotent stem cell-based tissue replacement therapy. Exp Cell Res 2020; 389:111882. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.111882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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13
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Brown DM, Glass JI. Technology used to build and transfer mammalian chromosomes. Exp Cell Res 2020; 388:111851. [PMID: 31952951 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.111851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In the near twenty-year existence of the human and mammalian artificial chromosome field, the technologies for artificial chromosome construction and installation into desired cell types or organisms have evolved with the rest of modern molecular and synthetic biology. Medical, industrial, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and basic research scientists seek the as yet unrealized promise of human and mammalian artificial chromosomes. Existing technologies for both top-down and bottom-up approaches to construct these artificial chromosomes for use in higher eukaryotes are very different but aspire to achieve similar results. New capacity for production of chromosome sized synthetic DNA will likely shift the field towards more bottom-up approaches, but not completely. Similarly, new approaches to install human and mammalian artificial chromosomes in target cells will compete with the microcell mediated cell transfer methods that currently dominate the field.
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14
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Kouprina N, Petrov N, Molina O, Liskovykh M, Pesenti E, Ohzeki JI, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Larionov V. Human Artificial Chromosome with Regulated Centromere: A Tool for Genome and Cancer Studies. ACS Synth Biol 2018; 7:1974-1989. [PMID: 30075081 PMCID: PMC6154217 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.8b00230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Since their description in the late 1990s, Human Artificial Chromosomes (HACs) bearing functional kinetochores have been considered as promising systems for gene delivery and expression. More recently a HAC assembled from a synthetic alphoid DNA array has been exploited in studies of centromeric chromatin and in assessing the impact of different epigenetic modifications on kinetochore structure and function in human cells. This HAC was termed the alphoidtetO-HAC, as the synthetic monomers each contained a tetO sequence in place of the CENP-B box that can be targeted specifically with tetR-fusion proteins. Studies in which the kinetochore chromatin of the alphoidtetO-HAC was specifically modified, revealed that heterochromatin is incompatible with centromere function and that centromeric transcription is important for centromere assembly and maintenance. In addition, the alphoidtetO-HAC was modified to carry large gene inserts that are expressed in target cells under conditions that recapitulate the physiological regulation of endogenous loci. Importantly, the phenotypes arising from stable gene expression can be reversed when cells are "cured" of the HAC by inactivating its kinetochore in proliferating cell populations, a feature that provides a control for phenotypic changes attributed to expression of HAC-encoded genes. AlphoidtetO-HAC-based technology has also been used to develop new drug screening and assessment strategies to manipulate the CIN phenotype in cancer cells. In summary, the alphoidtetO-HAC is proving to be a versatile tool for studying human chromosome transactions and structure as well as for genome and cancer studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalay Kouprina
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States,E-mail: . Tel: +1-240-760-7325
| | - Nikolai Petrov
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States
| | - Oscar Molina
- Josep
Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, School of Medicine, University
of Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mikhail Liskovykh
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States
| | - Elisa Pesenti
- Wellcome
Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, Scotland
| | - Jun-ichirou Ohzeki
- Laboratory
of Chromosome Engineering, Department of Frontier Research and Development, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818d Japan
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory
of Chromosome Engineering, Department of Frontier Research and Development, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818d Japan,E-mail: . Tel: +81-438-52-395
| | - William C. Earnshaw
- Wellcome
Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, Scotland,E-mail: . Tel: +44-(0)131-650-7101
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States,E-mail: . Tel: +1-240-760-7325
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15
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Pesenti E, Kouprina N, Liskovykh M, Aurich-Costa J, Larionov V, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Molina O. Generation of a Synthetic Human Chromosome with Two Centromeric Domains for Advanced Epigenetic Engineering Studies. ACS Synth Biol 2018; 7:1116-1130. [PMID: 29565577 PMCID: PMC5951608 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.8b00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
It is generally accepted that chromatin containing the histone H3 variant CENP-A is an epigenetic mark maintaining centromere identity. However, the pathways leading to the formation and maintenance of centromere chromatin remain poorly characterized due to difficulties of analysis of centromeric repeats in native chromosomes. To address this problem, in our previous studies we generated a human artificial chromosome (HAC) whose centromere contains a synthetic alpha-satellite (alphoid) DNA array containing the tetracycline operator, the alphoidtetO-HAC. The presence of tetO sequences allows the specific targeting of the centromeric region in the HAC with different chromatin modifiers fused to the tetracycline repressor. The alphoidtetO-HAC has been extensively used to investigate protein interactions within the kinetochore and to define the epigenetic signature of centromeric chromatin to maintain a functional kinetochore. In this study, we developed a novel synthetic HAC containing two alphoid DNA arrays with different targeting sequences, tetO, lacO and gal4, the alphoidhybrid-HAC. This new HAC can be used for detailed epigenetic engineering studies because its kinetochore can be simultaneously or independently targeted by different chromatin modifiers and other fusion proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Pesenti
- Wellcome
Trust Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3QR, United
Kingdom
| | - Natalay Kouprina
- Genome
Structure and Function Group, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National
Cancer Institute, National Institutes of
Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Mikhail Liskovykh
- Genome
Structure and Function Group, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National
Cancer Institute, National Institutes of
Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Joan Aurich-Costa
- Research
and Development, Cellay Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Genome
Structure and Function Group, Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National
Cancer Institute, National Institutes of
Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory
of Cell Engineering, Department of Frontier Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisazaru 292-0818, Japan
| | - William C. Earnshaw
- Wellcome
Trust Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3QR, United
Kingdom,E-mail: ; tel: +34 93-557-2810
| | - Oscar Molina
- Wellcome
Trust Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3QR, United
Kingdom,Josep
Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain,E-mail: ; tel: +44-(0)131-650-7101
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16
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Rapid screening method for male DNA by using the loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay. Int J Legal Med 2017; 132:975-981. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1661-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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17
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Using human artificial chromosomes to study centromere assembly and function. Chromosoma 2017; 126:559-575. [DOI: 10.1007/s00412-017-0633-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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18
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Transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning for genomics studies and synthetic biology. Chromosoma 2016; 125:621-32. [PMID: 27116033 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-016-0588-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning represents a unique tool for isolation and manipulation of large DNA molecules. The technique exploits a high level of homologous recombination in the yeast Sacharomyces cerevisiae. So far, TAR cloning is the only method available to selectively recover chromosomal segments up to 300 kb in length from complex and simple genomes. In addition, TAR cloning allows the assembly and cloning of entire microbe genomes up to several Mb as well as engineering of large metabolic pathways. In this review, we summarize applications of TAR cloning for functional/structural genomics and synthetic biology.
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19
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Oshimura M, Uno N, Kazuki Y, Katoh M, Inoue T. A pathway from chromosome transfer to engineering resulting in human and mouse artificial chromosomes for a variety of applications to bio-medical challenges. Chromosome Res 2015; 23:111-33. [PMID: 25657031 PMCID: PMC4365188 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-014-9459-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Microcell-mediated chromosome transfer (MMCT) is a technique to transfer a chromosome from defined donor cells into recipient cells and to manipulate chromosomes as gene delivery vectors and open a new avenue in somatic cell genetics. However, it is difficult to uncover the function of a single specific gene via the transfer of an entire chromosome or fragment, because each chromosome or fragment contains a set of numerous genes. Thus, alternative tools are human artificial chromosome (HAC) and mouse artificial chromosome (MAC) vectors, which can carry a gene or genes of interest. HACs/MACs have been generated mainly by either a "top-down approach" (engineered creation) or a "bottom-up approach" (de novo creation). HACs/MACs with one or more acceptor sites exhibit several characteristics required by an ideal gene delivery vector, including stable episomal maintenance and the capacity to carry large genomic loci plus their regulatory elements, thus allowing the physiological regulation of the introduced gene in a manner similar to that of native chromosomes. The MMCT technique is also applied for manipulating HACs and MACs in donor cells and delivering them to recipient cells. This review describes the lessons learned and prospects identified from studies on the construction of HACs and MACs, and their ability to drive exogenous gene expression in cultured cells and transgenic animals via MMCT. New avenues for a variety of applications to bio-medical challenges are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuo Oshimura
- Chromosome Engineering Research Center, Tottori University, 86 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, 683-8503, Japan,
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20
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Katona RL. De novo formed satellite DNA-based mammalian artificial chromosomes and their possible applications. Chromosome Res 2015; 23:143-57. [DOI: 10.1007/s10577-014-9458-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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21
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From selective full-length genes isolation by TAR cloning in yeast to their expression from HAC vectors in human cells. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1227:3-26. [PMID: 25239739 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1652-8_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning allows selective isolation of full-length genes and genomic loci as large circular Yeast Artificial Chromosomes (YACs) in yeast. The method has a broad application for structural and functional genomics, long-range haplotyping, characterization of chromosomal rearrangements, and evolutionary studies. In this paper, we describe a basic protocol for gene isolation by TAR as well as a method to convert TAR isolates into Bacterial Artificial Chromosomes (BACs) using a retrofitting vector. The retrofitting vector contains a 3' HPRT-loxP cassette to allow subsequent gene loading into a unique loxP site of the HAC-based (Human Artificial Chromosome) gene delivery vector. The benefit of combining the TAR gene cloning technology with the HAC gene delivery system for gene expression studies is discussed.
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22
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Erliandri I, Fu H, Nakano M, Kim JH, Miga KH, Liskovykh M, Earnshaw WC, Masumoto H, Kouprina N, Aladjem MI, Larionov V. Replication of alpha-satellite DNA arrays in endogenous human centromeric regions and in human artificial chromosome. Nucleic Acids Res 2014; 42:11502-16. [PMID: 25228468 PMCID: PMC4191410 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gku835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In human chromosomes, centromeric regions comprise megabase-size arrays of 171 bp alpha-satellite DNA monomers. The large distances spanned by these arrays preclude their replication from external sites and imply that the repetitive monomers contain replication origins. However, replication within these arrays has not previously been profiled and the role of alpha-satellite DNA in initiation of DNA replication has not yet been demonstrated. Here, replication of alpha-satellite DNA in endogenous human centromeric regions and in de novo formed Human Artificial Chromosome (HAC) was analyzed. We showed that alpha-satellite monomers could function as origins of DNA replication and that replication of alphoid arrays organized into centrochromatin occurred earlier than those organized into heterochromatin. The distribution of inter-origin distances within centromeric alphoid arrays was comparable to the distribution of inter-origin distances on randomly selected non-centromeric chromosomal regions. Depletion of CENP-B, a kinetochore protein that binds directly to a 17 bp CENP-B box motif common to alpha-satellite DNA, resulted in enrichment of alpha-satellite sequences for proteins of the ORC complex, suggesting that CENP-B may have a role in regulating the replication of centromeric regions. Mapping of replication initiation sites in the HAC revealed that replication preferentially initiated in transcriptionally active regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indri Erliandri
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Haiqing Fu
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Megumi Nakano
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Department of Frontier Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba, 292-0818, Japan
| | - Jung-Hyun Kim
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Karen H Miga
- Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, USA
| | - Mikhail Liskovykh
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - William C Earnshaw
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3JR, UK
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Department of Frontier Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba, 292-0818, Japan
| | - Natalay Kouprina
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Mirit I Aladjem
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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23
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Kouprina N, Tomilin AN, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Larionov V. Human artificial chromosome-based gene delivery vectors for biomedicine and biotechnology. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2014; 11:517-35. [DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2014.882314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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24
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Tóth A, Fodor K, Praznovszky T, Tubak V, Udvardy A, Hadlaczky G, Katona RL. Novel method to load multiple genes onto a mammalian artificial chromosome. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85565. [PMID: 24454889 PMCID: PMC3893256 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian artificial chromosomes are natural chromosome-based vectors that may carry a vast amount of genetic material in terms of both size and number. They are reasonably stable and segregate well in both mitosis and meiosis. A platform artificial chromosome expression system (ACEs) was earlier described with multiple loading sites for a modified lambda-integrase enzyme. It has been shown that this ACEs is suitable for high-level industrial protein production and the treatment of a mouse model for a devastating human disorder, Krabbe's disease. ACEs-treated mutant mice carrying a therapeutic gene lived more than four times longer than untreated counterparts. This novel gene therapy method is called combined mammalian artificial chromosome-stem cell therapy. At present, this method suffers from the limitation that a new selection marker gene should be present for each therapeutic gene loaded onto the ACEs. Complex diseases require the cooperative action of several genes for treatment, but only a limited number of selection marker genes are available and there is also a risk of serious side-effects caused by the unwanted expression of these marker genes in mammalian cells, organs and organisms. We describe here a novel method to load multiple genes onto the ACEs by using only two selectable marker genes. These markers may be removed from the ACEs before therapeutic application. This novel technology could revolutionize gene therapeutic applications targeting the treatment of complex disorders and cancers. It could also speed up cell therapy by allowing researchers to engineer a chromosome with a predetermined set of genetic factors to differentiate adult stem cells, embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells into cell types of therapeutic value. It is also a suitable tool for the investigation of complex biochemical pathways in basic science by producing an ACEs with several genes from a signal transduction pathway of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tóth
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Fodor
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tünde Praznovszky
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Vilmos Tubak
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Andor Udvardy
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gyula Hadlaczky
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Robert L. Katona
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
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25
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Kouprina N, Earnshaw WC, Masumoto H, Larionov V. A new generation of human artificial chromosomes for functional genomics and gene therapy. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:1135-48. [PMID: 22907415 PMCID: PMC3522797 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Revised: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Since their description in the late 1990s, human artificial chromosomes (HACs) carrying a functional kinetochore were considered as a promising system for gene delivery and expression with a potential to overcome many problems caused by the use of viral-based gene transfer systems. Indeed, HACs avoid the limited cloning capacity, lack of copy number control and insertional mutagenesis due to integration into host chromosomes that plague viral vectors. Nevertheless, until recently, HACs have not been widely recognized because of uncertainties of their structure and the absence of a unique gene acceptor site. The situation changed a few years ago after engineering of HACs with a single loxP gene adopter site and a defined structure. In this review, we summarize recent progress made in HAC technology and concentrate on details of two of the most advanced HACs, 21HAC generated by truncation of human chromosome 21 and alphoid(tetO)-HAC generated de novo using a synthetic tetO-alphoid DNA array. Multiple potential applications of the HAC vectors are discussed, specifically the unique features of two of the most advanced HAC cloning systems.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Genetically Modified
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/classification
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/genetics
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/physiology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Transfer Techniques
- Genetic Diseases, Inborn/genetics
- Genetic Diseases, Inborn/pathology
- Genetic Diseases, Inborn/therapy
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Genomics/methods
- Humans
- Models, Biological
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalay Kouprina
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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26
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Kouprina N, Samoshkin A, Erliandri I, Nakano M, Lee HS, Fu H, Iida Y, Aladjem M, Oshimura M, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Larionov V. Organization of synthetic alphoid DNA array in human artificial chromosome (HAC) with a conditional centromere. ACS Synth Biol 2012; 1:590-601. [PMID: 23411994 DOI: 10.1021/sb3000436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) represent a novel promising episomal system for functional genomics, gene therapy, and synthetic biology. HACs are engineered from natural and synthetic alphoid DNA arrays upon transfection into human cells. The use of HACs for gene expression studies requires the knowledge of their structural organization. However, none of the de novo HACs constructed so far has been physically mapped in detail. Recently we constructed a synthetic alphoid(tetO)-HAC that was successfully used for expression of full-length genes to correct genetic deficiencies in human cells. The HAC can be easily eliminated from cell populations by inactivation of its conditional kinetochore. This unique feature provides a control for phenotypic changes attributed to expression of HAC-encoded genes. This work describes organization of a megabase-size synthetic alphoid DNA array in the alphoid(tetO)-HAC that has been formed from a ~50 kb synthetic alphoid(tetO)-construct. Our analysis showed that this array represents a 1.1 Mb continuous sequence assembled from multiple copies of input DNA, a significant part of which was rearranged before assembling. The tandem and inverted alphoid DNA repeats in the HAC range in size from 25 to 150 kb. In addition, we demonstrated that the structure and functional domains of the HAC remains unchanged after several rounds of its transfer into different host cells. The knowledge of the alphoid(tetO)-HAC structure provides a tool to control HAC integrity during different manipulations. Our results also shed light on a mechanism for de novo HAC formation in human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalay Kouprina
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Alexander Samoshkin
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Indri Erliandri
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Megumi Nakano
- Laboratory
of Cell Engineering,
Department of Human Genome Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, 2-6-7 Kazusa-Kamatari, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818,
Japan
| | - Hee-Sheung Lee
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Haiging Fu
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Yuichi Iida
- Department of Biomedical
Science,
Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School
of Medical Sciences, Tottori University, Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
| | - Mirit Aladjem
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Mitsuo Oshimura
- Department of Biomedical
Science,
Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School
of Medical Sciences, Tottori University, Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory
of Cell Engineering,
Department of Human Genome Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, 2-6-7 Kazusa-Kamatari, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818,
Japan
| | - William C. Earnshaw
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell
Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh
EH9 3JR, Scotland
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
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27
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Noskov VN, Lee NC, Larionov V, Kouprina N. Rapid generation of long tandem DNA repeat arrays by homologous recombination in yeast to study their function in mammalian genomes. Biol Proced Online 2011; 13:8. [PMID: 21982381 PMCID: PMC3200152 DOI: 10.1186/1480-9222-13-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 10/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe here a method to rapidly convert any desirable DNA fragment, as small as 100 bp, into long tandem DNA arrays up to 140 kb in size that are inserted into a microbe vector. This method includes rolling-circle phi29 amplification (RCA) of the sequence in vitro and assembly of the RCA products in vivo by homologous recombination in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The method was successfully used for a functional analysis of centromeric and pericentromeric repeats and construction of new vehicles for gene delivery to mammalian cells. The method may have general application in elucidating the role of tandem repeats in chromosome organization and dynamics. Each cycle of the protocol takes ~ two weeks to complete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir N Noskov
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA.
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28
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Kazuki Y, Oshimura M. Human artificial chromosomes for gene delivery and the development of animal models. Mol Ther 2011; 19:1591-601. [PMID: 21750534 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2011.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Random integration of conventional gene delivery vectors such as viruses, plasmids, P1 phage-derived artificial chromosomes, bacterial artificial chromosomes and yeast artificial chromosomes can be associated with transgene silencing. Furthermore, integrated viral sequences can activate oncogenes adjacent to the insertion site resulting in cancer. Various human artificial chromosomes (HACs) exhibit several potential characteristics desired for an ideal gene delivery vector, including stable episomal maintenance and the capacity to carry large genomic loci with their regulatory elements, thus allowing the physiological regulation of the introduced gene in a manner similar to that of native chromosomes. HACs have been generated mainly using either a "top-down approach" (engineered chromosomes), or a "bottom-up approach" (de novo artificial chromosomes). The recent emergence of stem cell-based tissue engineering has opened up new avenues for gene and cell therapies. This review describes the lessons learned and prospects identified mainly from studies in the construction of HACs and HAC-mediated gene expression systems in cultured cells, as well as in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Kazuki
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan
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29
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Gaida A, Becker MM, Schmid CD, Bühlmann T, Louis EJ, Beck HP. Cloning of the repertoire of individual Plasmodium falciparum var genes using transformation associated recombination (TAR). PLoS One 2011; 6:e17782. [PMID: 21408186 PMCID: PMC3049791 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0017782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2010] [Accepted: 02/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the major virulence factors of the malaria causing parasite is the Plasmodium falciparum encoded erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1). It is translocated to It the membrane of infected erythrocytes and expressed from approximately 60 var genes in a mutually exclusive manner. Switching of var genes allows the parasite to alter functional and antigenic properties of infected erythrocytes, to escape the immune defense and to establish chronic infections. We have developed an efficient method for isolating VAR genes from telomeric and other genome locations by adapting transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning, which can then be analyzed and sequenced. For this purpose, three plasmids each containing a homologous sequence representing the upstream regions of the group A, B, and C var genes and a sequence homologous to the conserved acidic terminal segment (ATS) of var genes were generated. Co-transfection with P. falciparum strain ITG2F6 genomic DNA in yeast cells yielded 200 TAR clones. The relative frequencies of clones from each group were not biased. Clones were screened by PCR, as well as Southern blotting, which revealed clones missed by PCR due to sequence mismatches with the primers. Selected clones were transformed into E. coli and further analyzed by RFLP and end sequencing. Physical analysis of 36 clones revealed 27 distinct types potentially representing 50% of the var gene repertoire. Three clones were selected for sequencing and assembled into single var gene containing contigs. This study demonstrates that it is possible to rapidly obtain the repertoire of var genes from P. falciparum within a single set of cloning experiments. This technique can be applied to individual isolates which will provide a detailed picture of the diversity of var genes in the field. This is a powerful tool to overcome the obstacles with cloning and assembly of multi-gene families by simultaneously cloning each member.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Gaida
- Department for Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marion M. Becker
- Centre for Genetics and Genomics, The University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Christoph D. Schmid
- Department for Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Bühlmann
- Department for Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Edward J. Louis
- Centre for Genetics and Genomics, The University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Hans-Peter Beck
- Department for Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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30
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Katona RL, Vanderbyl SL, Perez CF. Mammalian artificial chromosomes and clinical applications for genetic modification of stem cells: an overview. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 738:199-216. [PMID: 21431729 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-099-7_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Modifying multipotent, self-renewing human stem cells with mammalian artificial chromosomes (MACs), present a promising clinical strategy for numerous diseases, especially ex vivo cell therapies that can benefit from constitutive or overexpression of therapeutic gene(s). MACs are nonintegrating, autonomously replicating, with the capacity to carry large cDNA or genomic sequences, which in turn enable potentially prolonged, safe, and regulated therapeutic transgene expression, and render MACs as attractive genetic vectors for "gene replacement" or for controlling differentiation pathways in progenitor cells. The status quo is that the most versatile target cell would be one that was pluripotent and self-renewing to address multiple disease target cell types, thus making multilineage stem cells, such as adult derived early progenitor cells and embryonic stem cells, as attractive universal host cells. We will describe the progress of MAC technologies, the subsequent modifications of stem cells, and discuss the establishment of MAC platform stem cell lines to facilitate proof-of-principle studies and preclinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Katona
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Center, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary.
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31
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Kazuki Y, Hoshiya H, Takiguchi M, Abe S, Iida Y, Osaki M, Katoh M, Hiratsuka M, Shirayoshi Y, Hiramatsu K, Ueno E, Kajitani N, Yoshino T, Kazuki K, Ishihara C, Takehara S, Tsuji S, Ejima F, Toyoda A, Sakaki Y, Larionov V, Kouprina N, Oshimura M. Refined human artificial chromosome vectors for gene therapy and animal transgenesis. Gene Ther 2010; 18:384-93. [PMID: 21085194 PMCID: PMC3125098 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2010.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) have several advantages as gene therapy vectors, including stable episomal maintenance, and the ability to carry large gene inserts. We previously developed HAC vectors from the normal human chromosomes using a chromosome engineering technique. However, endogenous genes were remained in these HACs, limiting their therapeutic applications. In this study, we refined a HAC vector without endogenous genes from human chromosome 21 in homologous recombination-proficient chicken DT40 cells. The HAC was physically characterized using a transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning strategy followed by sequencing of TAR-bacterial artificial chromosome clones. No endogenous genes were remained in the HAC. We demonstrated that any desired gene can be cloned into the HAC using the Cre-loxP system in Chinese hamster ovary cells, or a homologous recombination system in DT40 cells. The HAC can be efficiently transferred to other type of cells including mouse ES cells via microcell-mediated chromosome transfer. The transferred HAC was stably maintained in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, tumor cells containing a HAC carrying the suicide gene, herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSV-TK), were selectively killed by ganciclovir in vitro and in vivo. Thus, this novel HAC vector may be useful not only for gene and cell therapy, but also for animal transgenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Kazuki
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
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32
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Iida Y, Kim JH, Kazuki Y, Hoshiya H, Takiguchi M, Hayashi M, Erliandri I, Lee HS, Samoshkin A, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Kouprina N, Larionov V, Oshimura M. Human artificial chromosome with a conditional centromere for gene delivery and gene expression. DNA Res 2010; 17:293-301. [PMID: 20798231 PMCID: PMC2955713 DOI: 10.1093/dnares/dsq020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs), which carry a fully functional centromere and are maintained as a single-copy episome, are not associated with random mutagenesis and offer greater control over expression of ectopic genes on the HAC. Recently, we generated a HAC with a conditional centromere, which includes the tetracycline operator (tet-O) sequence embedded in the alphoid DNA array. This conditional centromere can be inactivated, loss of the alphoidtet-O (tet-O HAC) by expression of tet-repressor fusion proteins. In this report, we describe adaptation of the tet-O HAC vector for gene delivery and gene expression in human cells. A loxP cassette was inserted into the tet-O HAC by homologous recombination in chicken DT40 cells following a microcell-mediated chromosome transfer (MMCT). The tet-O HAC with the loxP cassette was then transferred into Chinese hamster ovary cells, and EGFP transgene was efficiently and accurately incorporated into the tet-O HAC vector. The EGFP transgene was stably expressed in human cells after transfer via MMCT. Because the transgenes inserted on the tet-O HAC can be eliminated from cells by HAC loss due to centromere inactivation, this HAC vector system provides important novel features and has potential applications for gene expression studies and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Iida
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tottori University, Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
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33
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Kouprina N, Larionov V. Selective isolation of mammalian genes by TAR cloning. CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN HUMAN GENETICS 2008; Chapter 5:Unit 5.17. [PMID: 18428393 DOI: 10.1002/0471142905.hg0517s49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning provides a unique tool for selective isolation of desired chromosome segments and full-size genes from complex genomes in the form of a circular yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) up to 250 kb in size. The method has a broad application for structural and functional genomics, long-range haplotyping, mutational analysis of gene families, characterization of chromosomal rearrangements, and evolutionary studies. This unit describes a procedure for gene isolation by TAR as well as a method for conversion of YAC-TAR isolates into a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) form.
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Vagnarelli P, Ribeiro SA, Earnshaw WC. Centromeres: old tales and new tools. FEBS Lett 2008; 582:1950-9. [PMID: 18435926 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2008.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2008] [Accepted: 04/11/2008] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The centromere is a specialised region of the eukaryotic chromosome that directs the equal segregation of sister chromatids into two daughter cells during mitosis. In mitosis, the kinetochores mediate (1) microtubule capture and chromosome alignment at a metaphase plate; (2) the correction of improper microtubule attachments; (3) the maintenance of an active checkpoint until bi-orientation is achieved by the whole complement of chromosomes; (4) the establishment of tension within the centromere which, in turn, contributes to silencing of the spindle checkpoint and triggers the onset of anaphase. In this review, we will analyse how centromeres are organised with respect to chromatin types and arrangements.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Vagnarelli
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology, Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Edinburgh, Swann Building, King's Buildings, Mayfield Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, UK.
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Oshimura M, Katoh M. Transfer of human artificial chromosome vectors into stem cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:57-69. [PMID: 18252049 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60557-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Human chromosome fragments and human artificial chromosomes (HAC) represent feasible gene delivery vectors via microcell-mediated chromosome transfer. Strategies to construct HAC involve either 'build up' or 'top-down' approaches. For each approach, techniques for manipulating HAC in donor cells in order to deliver HAC to recipient cells are required. The combination of chromosome fragments or HAC with microcell-mediated chromosome transfer has facilitated human gene mapping and various genetic studies. The recent emergence of stem cell-based tissue engineering has opened up new avenues for gene and cell therapies. The task now is to develop safe and effective vectors that can deliver therapeutic genes into specific stem cells and maintain long-term regulated expression of these genes. Although the transfer-efficiency needs to be improved, HAC possess several characteristics that are required for gene therapy vectors, including stable episomal maintenance and the capacity for large gene insets. HAC can also carry genomic loci with regulatory elements, which allow for the expression of transgenes in a genetic environment similar to the natural chromosome. This review describes the lessons and prospects learned, mainly from recent studies in developing HAC and HAC-mediated gene expression in embryonic and adult stem cells, and in transgenic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuo Oshimura
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, 86 Nishicho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan.
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Ren X, Tahimic CGT, Katoh M, Kurimasa A, Inoue T, Oshimura M. Human artificial chromosome vectors meet stem cells: new prospects for gene delivery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 2:43-50. [PMID: 17142886 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-006-0008-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/1999] [Revised: 11/30/1999] [Accepted: 11/30/1999] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The recent emergence of stem cell-based tissue engineering has now opened up new venues for gene therapy. The task now is to develop safe and effective vectors that can deliver therapeutic genes into specific stem cell lines and maintain long-term regulated expression of these genes. Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) possess several characteristics that require gene therapy vectors, including a stable episomal maintenance, and the capacity for large gene inserts. HACs can also carry genomic loci with regulatory elements, thus allowing for the expression of transgenes in a genetic environment similar to the chromosome. Currently, HACs are constructed by a two prone approaches. Using a top-down strategy, HACs can be generated from fragmenting endogenous chromosomes. By a bottom-up strategy, HACs can be created de novo from cloned chromosomal components using chromosome engineering. This review describes the current advances in developing HACs, with the main focus on their applications and potential value in gene delivery, such as HAC-mediated gene expression in embryonic, adult stem cells, and transgenic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianying Ren
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction,Tottori University, 86 Nishicho,Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan
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Rosandić M, Paar V, Basar I, Gluncić M, Pavin N, Pilas I. CENP-B box and pJalpha sequence distribution in human alpha satellite higher-order repeats (HOR). Chromosome Res 2006; 14:735-53. [PMID: 17115329 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-006-1078-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2005] [Accepted: 06/03/2006] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Using our Key String Algorithm (KSA) to analyze Build 35.1 assembly we determined consensus alpha satellite higher-order repeats (HOR) and consensus distributions of CENP-B box and pJalpha motif in human chromosomes 1, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 17, 19, and X. We determined new suprachromosomal family (SF) assignments: SF5 for 13mer (2211 bp), SF5 for 13mer (2214 bp), SF2 for 11mer (1869 bp), SF1 for 18mer (3058 bp), SF3 for 12mer (2047 bp), SF3 for 14mer (2379 bp), and SF5 for 17mer (2896 bp) in chromosomes 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 17, and 19, respectively. In chromosome 5 we identified SF5 13mer without any CENP-B box and pJalpha motif, highly homologous (96%) to 13mer in chromosome 19. Additionally, in chromosome 19 we identified new SF5 17mer with one CENP-B box and pJalpha motif, aligned to 13mer by deleting four monomers. In chromosome 11 we identified SF3 12mer, homologous to 12mer in chromosome X. In chromosome 10 we identified new SF1 18mer with eight CENP-B boxes in every other monomer (except one). In chromosome 4 we identified new SF5 13mer with CENP-B box in three consecutive monomers. We found four exceptions to the rule that CENP-B box belongs to type B and pJalpha motif to type A monomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Rosandić
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Rebro, University of Zagreb, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
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38
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Kouprina N, Larionov V. TAR cloning: insights into gene function, long-range haplotypes and genome structure and evolution. Nat Rev Genet 2006; 7:805-12. [PMID: 16983376 DOI: 10.1038/nrg1943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The structural and functional analysis of mammalian genomes would benefit from the ability to isolate from multiple DNA samples any targeted chromosomal segment that is the size of an average human gene. A cloning technique that is based on transformation-associated recombination (TAR) in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae satisfies this need. It is a unique tool to selectively recover chromosome segments that are up to 250 kb in length from complex genomes. In addition, TAR cloning can be used to characterize gene function and genome variation, including polymorphic structural rearrangements, mutations and the evolution of gene families, and for long-range haplotyping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalay Kouprina
- Laboratory of Biosystems and Cancer, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Building 37, Room 5032, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA.
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Roizès G. Human centromeric alphoid domains are periodically homogenized so that they vary substantially between homologues. Mechanism and implications for centromere functioning. Nucleic Acids Res 2006; 34:1912-24. [PMID: 16598075 PMCID: PMC1447651 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkl137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sequence analysis of alphoid repeats from human chromosomes 17, 21 and 13 reveals recurrent diagnostic variant nucleotides. Their combinations define haplotypes, with higher order repeats (HORs) containing identical or closely-related haplotypes tandemly arranged into separate domains. The haplotypes found on homologues can be totally different, while HORs remain 99.8% homogeneous both intrachromosomally and between homologues. These results support the hypothesis, never before demonstrated, that unequal crossovers between sister chromatids accumulate to produce homogenization and amplification into tandem alphoid repeats. I propose that the molecular basis of this involves the diagnostic variant nucleotides, which enable pairing between HORs with identical or closely-related haplotypes. Domains are thus periodically renewed to maintain high intrachromosomal and interhomologue homogeneity. The capacity of a domain to form an active centromere is maintained as long as neither retrotransposons nor significant numbers of mutations affect it. In the presented model, a chromosome with an altered centromere can be transiently rescued by forming a neocentromere, until a restored, fully-competent domain is amplified de novo or rehomogenized through the accumulation of unequal crossovers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gérard Roizès
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, UPR 1142, CNRS, 141 Rue de la Cardonille, 34396 Montpellier Cedex 5, France.
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Irvine DV, Shaw ML, Choo KHA, Saffery R. Engineering chromosomes for delivery of therapeutic genes. Trends Biotechnol 2005; 23:575-83. [PMID: 16242803 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2005.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2005] [Revised: 06/03/2005] [Accepted: 10/06/2005] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The ability to create fully functional human chromosome vectors represents a potentially exciting gene-delivery system for the correction of human genetic disorders with several advantages over viral delivery systems. However, for the full potential of chromosome-based gene-delivery vectors to be realized, several key obstacles must be overcome. Methods must be developed to insert therapeutic genes reliably and efficiently and to enable the stable transfer of the resulting chromosomal vectors to different therapeutic cell types. Research to achieve these outcomes continues to encounter major challenges; however recent developments have reiterated the potential of chromosome-based vectors for therapeutic gene delivery. Here we review the different strategies under development and discuss the advantages and problems associated with each.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle V Irvine
- Chromosome Research Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Flemington Road, Parkville 3052, Australia
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41
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Grimes BR, Monaco ZL. Artificial and engineered chromosomes: developments and prospects for gene therapy. Chromosoma 2005; 114:230-41. [PMID: 16133351 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-005-0017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2005] [Revised: 07/05/2005] [Accepted: 07/05/2005] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
At the gene therapy session of the ICCXV Chromosome Conference (2004), recent advances in the construction of engineered chromosomes and de novo human artificial chromosomes were presented. The long-term aims of these studies are to develop vectors as tools for studying genome and chromosome function and for delivering genes into cells for therapeutic applications. There are two primary advantages of chromosome-based vector systems over most conventional vectors for gene delivery. First, the transferred DNA can be stably maintained without the risks associated with insertion, and second, large DNA segments encompassing genes and their regulatory elements can be introduced, leading to more reliable transgene expression. There is clearly a need for safe and effective gene transfer vectors to correct genetic defects. Among the topics discussed at the gene therapy session and the main focus of this review are requirements for de novo human artificial chromosome formation, assembly of chromatin on de novo human artificial chromosomes, advances in vector construction, and chromosome transfer to cells and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda R Grimes
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 975 W. Walnut St, IB130, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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Spence JM, Fournier REK, Oshimura M, Regnier V, Farr CJ. Topoisomerase II cleavage activity within the human D11Z1 and DXZ1 alpha-satellite arrays. Chromosome Res 2005; 13:637-48. [PMID: 16170628 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-005-1003-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2005] [Accepted: 07/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Topoisomerase II (Topo II) is a major component of mitotic chromosomes and its unique decatenating activity has been implicated in many aspects of chromosome dynamics including DNA replication, transcription, recombination, chromosome condensation and segregation. Of these, chromosome segregation is the most seriously affected by loss of Topo II, most probably because of residual catenations between sister chromatids. At metaphase, vertebrate chromatids are attached principally through their centromeric regions. Intriguingly, evidence has recently been presented for Topo II cleavage activity within the centromeric alpha-satellite DNA arrays of the human X and Y chromosomes. In this report we extend these observations by mapping distinct sites of Topo II cleavage activity within the alpha-satellite array of human chromosome 11. A single major site of cleavage has been assigned within the centromeric DNA of each of three independently derived, and active, 11 centromeres. Unlike the X and Y centromeres, where cleavage sites mapped close to (within 150 kb of) the short arm edge of the arrays, on chromosome 11, the cleavage sites lie many hundreds of kilobases into each alpha-satellite array. We also demonstrate that catalytically active Topo II is concentrated within the centromere domain through an extended period of G2 and M, with levels declining in G1 and S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Spence
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
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43
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Ebersole T, Okamoto Y, Noskov VN, Kouprina N, Kim JH, Leem SH, Barrett JC, Masumoto H, Larionov V. Rapid generation of long synthetic tandem repeats and its application for analysis in human artificial chromosome formation. Nucleic Acids Res 2005; 33:e130. [PMID: 16141190 PMCID: PMC1197135 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gni129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) provide a unique opportunity to study kinetochore formation and to develop a new generation of vectors with potential in gene therapy. An investigation into the structural and the functional relationship in centromeric tandem repeats in HACs requires the ability to manipulate repeat substructure efficiently. We describe here a new method to rapidly amplify human alphoid tandem repeats of a few hundred base pairs into long DNA arrays up to 120 kb. The method includes rolling-circle amplification (RCA) of repeats in vitro and assembly of the RCA products by in vivo recombination in yeast. The synthetic arrays are competent in HAC formation when transformed into human cells. As short multimers can be easily modified before amplification, this new technique can identify repeat monomer regions critical for kinetochore seeding. The method may have more general application in elucidating the role of other tandem repeats in chromosome organization and dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yasuhide Okamoto
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya UniversityChikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8602, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Vladimir Larionov
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +1 301 496 7941; Fax: +1 301 480 2772;
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44
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Basu J, Compitello G, Stromberg G, Willard HF, Van Bokkelen G. Efficient assembly of de novo human artificial chromosomes from large genomic loci. BMC Biotechnol 2005; 5:21. [PMID: 15998466 PMCID: PMC1182356 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-5-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2005] [Accepted: 07/05/2005] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human Artificial Chromosomes (HACs) are potentially useful vectors for gene transfer studies and for functional annotation of the genome because of their suitability for cloning, manipulating and transferring large segments of the genome. However, development of HACs for the transfer of large genomic loci into mammalian cells has been limited by difficulties in manipulating high-molecular weight DNA, as well as by the low overall frequencies of de novo HAC formation. Indeed, to date, only a small number of large (>100 kb) genomic loci have been reported to be successfully packaged into de novo HACs. Results We have developed novel methodologies to enable efficient assembly of HAC vectors containing any genomic locus of interest. We report here the creation of a novel, bimolecular system based on bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) for the construction of HACs incorporating any defined genomic region. We have utilized this vector system to rapidly design, construct and validate multiple de novo HACs containing large (100–200 kb) genomic loci including therapeutically significant genes for human growth hormone (HGH), polycystic kidney disease (PKD1) and ß-globin. We report significant differences in the ability of different genomic loci to support de novo HAC formation, suggesting possible effects of cis-acting genomic elements. Finally, as a proof of principle, we have observed sustained ß-globin gene expression from HACs incorporating the entire 200 kb ß-globin genomic locus for over 90 days in the absence of selection. Conclusion Taken together, these results are significant for the development of HAC vector technology, as they enable high-throughput assembly and functional validation of HACs containing any large genomic locus. We have evaluated the impact of different genomic loci on the frequency of HAC formation and identified segments of genomic DNA that appear to facilitate de novo HAC formation. These genomic loci may be useful for identifying discrete functional elements that may be incorporated into future generations of HAC vectors.
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MESH Headings
- Biotechnology/methods
- Cell Line
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Bacterial/genetics
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/genetics
- Cloning, Molecular
- DNA
- DNA, Satellite
- Fibroblasts/cytology
- Gene Transfer Techniques
- Genetic Techniques
- Genetic Vectors
- Genome
- Globins/genetics
- Human Growth Hormone/genetics
- Humans
- In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
- Microscopy, Fluorescence
- Models, Genetic
- Polycystic Kidney Diseases/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Transfection
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydeep Basu
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
- Athersys Inc., 3201 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
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45
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Laner A, Goussard S, Ramalho AS, Schwarz T, Amaral MD, Courvalin P, Schindelhauer D, Grillot-Courvalin C. Bacterial transfer of large functional genomic DNA into human cells. Gene Ther 2005; 12:1559-72. [PMID: 15973438 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Efficient transfer of chromosome-based vectors into mammalian cells is difficult, mostly due to their large size. Using a genetically engineered invasive Escherichia coli vector, alpha satellite DNA cloned in P1-based artificial chromosome was stably delivered into the HT1080 cell line and efficiently generated human artificial chromosomes de novo. Similarly, a large genomic cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) construct of 160 kb containing a portion of the CFTR gene was stably propagated in the bacterial vector and transferred into HT1080 cells where it was transcribed, and correctly spliced, indicating transfer of an intact and functional locus of at least 80 kb. These results demonstrate that bacteria allow the cloning, propagation and transfer of large intact and functional genomic DNA fragments and their subsequent direct delivery into cells for functional analysis. Such an approach opens new perspectives for gene therapy.
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MESH Headings
- Cell Line, Tumor/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor/microbiology
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Bacterial
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human
- Clone Cells
- DNA, Recombinant/metabolism
- Electroporation
- Escherichia coli/genetics
- Flow Cytometry
- Gene Expression
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Genetic Vectors/administration & dosage
- Genome, Bacterial
- Humans
- In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
- Lung Neoplasms
- Recombination, Genetic
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Sarcoma
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Affiliation(s)
- A Laner
- Department of Medical Genetics, Childrens Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
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46
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Masumoto H, Nakano M, Ohzeki JI. The role of CENP-B and alpha-satellite DNA: de novo assembly and epigenetic maintenance of human centromeres. Chromosome Res 2005; 12:543-56. [PMID: 15289662 DOI: 10.1023/b:chro.0000036593.72788.99] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The centromere is an essential functional domain responsible for the correct inheritance of eukaryotic chromosomes during cell division. Eukaryotic centromeres include the highly conserved centromere-specific histone H3 variant, CENP-A, which has provided a powerful tool for investigating the recruitment of centromere components. However, the trigger that targets CENP-A to a specific genomic locus during centromere assembly remains unknown. Although, on rare occasions, CENP-A chromatin may assemble at non-centromeric DNA, all normal human centromeres are assembled and maintained on alpha-satellite (alphoid) DNA. The importance of alphoid DNA and CENP-B binding sites (CENP-B boxes), typical of normal human centromere DNA configurations, has been demonstrated through their requirement in de novo centromere assembly and Human Artificial Chromosome (HAC) assays. Mechanisms to link the centromere tightly to specific genomic sequences exist in humans and the two yeast species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory of Biosystems and Cancer, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bldg. 37, Rm 5040, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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47
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Basu J, Stromberg G, Compitello G, Willard HF, Van Bokkelen G. Rapid creation of BAC-based human artificial chromosome vectors by transposition with synthetic alpha-satellite arrays. Nucleic Acids Res 2005; 33:587-96. [PMID: 15673719 PMCID: PMC548352 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gki207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Efficient construction of BAC-based human artificial chromosomes (HACs) requires optimization of each key functional unit as well as development of techniques for the rapid and reliable manipulation of high-molecular weight BAC vectors. Here, we have created synthetic chromosome 17-derived alpha-satellite arrays, based on the 16-monomer repeat length typical of natural D17Z1 arrays, in which the consensus CENP-B box elements are either completely absent (0/16 monomers) or increased in density (16/16 monomers) compared to D17Z1 alpha-satellite (5/16 monomers). Using these vectors, we show that the presence of CENP-B box elements is a requirement for efficient de novo centromere formation and that increasing the density of CENP-B box elements may enhance the efficiency of de novo centromere formation. Furthermore, we have developed a novel, high-throughput methodology that permits the rapid conversion of any genomic BAC target into a HAC vector by transposon-mediated modification with synthetic alpha-satellite arrays and other key functional units. Taken together, these approaches offer the potential to significantly advance the utility of BAC-based HACs for functional annotation of the genome and for applications in gene transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydeep Basu
- Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy, Duke University CIEMAS Room 2379, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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48
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Rudd MK, Schueler MG, Willard HF. Sequence organization and functional annotation of human centromeres. COLD SPRING HARBOR SYMPOSIA ON QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY 2004; 68:141-9. [PMID: 15338612 DOI: 10.1101/sqb.2003.68.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M K Rudd
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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49
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Amor DJ, Kalitsis P, Sumer H, Choo KHA. Building the centromere: from foundation proteins to 3D organization. Trends Cell Biol 2004; 14:359-68. [PMID: 15246429 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2004.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
At each mitosis, accurate segregation of every chromosome is ensured by the assembly of a kinetochore at each centromeric locus. Six foundation kinetochore proteins that assemble hierarchically and co-dependently have been identified in vertebrates. CENP-A, Mis12, CENP-C, CENP-H and CENP-I localize to a core domain of centromeric chromatin. The sixth protein, CENP-B, although not essential in higher eukaryotes, has homologues in fission yeast that bind pericentric DNA and are essential for heterochromatin formation. Foundation kinetochore proteins have various roles and mutual interactions, and their associations with centromeric DNA and heterochromatin create structural domains that support the different functions of the centromere. Advances in molecular and microscopic techniques, coupled with rare centromere variants, have enabled us to gain fresh insights into the linear and 3D organization of centromeric chromatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Amor
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
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50
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Eichler EE, Clark RA, She X. An assessment of the sequence gaps: Unfinished business in a finished human genome. Nat Rev Genet 2004; 5:345-54. [PMID: 15143317 DOI: 10.1038/nrg1322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Evan E Eichler
- Department of Genetics, Center for Computational Genomics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and University Hospitals of Cleveland, BRB720, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
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