1
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Kojima L, Seiriki K, Rokujo H, Nakazawa T, Kasai A, Hashimoto H. Optimization of AAV vectors for transactivator-regulated enhanced gene expression within targeted neuronal populations. iScience 2024; 27:109878. [PMID: 38799556 PMCID: PMC11126825 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are potential tools for cell-type-selective gene delivery to the central nervous system. Although cell-type-specific enhancers and promoters have been identified for AAV systems, there is limited information regarding the effects of AAV genomic components on the selectivity and efficiency of gene expression. Here, we offer an alternative strategy to provide specific and efficient gene delivery to a targeted neuronal population by optimizing recombinant AAV genomic components, named TAREGET (TransActivator-Regulated Enhanced Gene Expression within Targeted neuronal populations). We established this strategy in oxytocinergic neurons and showed that the TAREGET enabled sufficient gene expression to label long-projecting axons in wild-type mice. Its application to other cell types, including serotonergic and dopaminergic neurons, was also demonstrated. These results demonstrate that optimization of AAV expression cassettes can improve the specificity and efficiency of cell-type-specific gene expression and that TAREGET can renew previously established cell-type-specific promoters with improved performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Kojima
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kaoru Seiriki
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroki Rokujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takanobu Nakazawa
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kasai
- Systems Neuropharmacology, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Molecular Research Center for Children’s Mental Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Institute for Datability Science, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Molecular Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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2
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Chung M, Imanaka K, Huang Z, Watarai A, Wang MY, Tao K, Ejima H, Aida T, Feng G, Okuyama T. Conditional knockout of Shank3 in the ventral CA1 by quantitative in vivo genome-editing impairs social memory in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4531. [PMID: 38866749 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48430-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a higher prevalence of social memory impairment. A series of our previous studies revealed that hippocampal ventral CA1 (vCA1) neurons possess social memory engram and that the neurophysiological representation of social memory in the vCA1 neurons is disrupted in ASD-associated Shank3 knockout mice. However, whether the dysfunction of Shank3 in vCA1 causes the social memory impairment observed in ASD remains unclear. In this study, we found that vCA1-specific Shank3 conditional knockout (cKO) by the adeno-associated virus (AAV)- or specialized extracellular vesicle (EV)- mediated in vivo gene editing was sufficient to recapitulate the social memory impairment in male mice. Furthermore, the utilization of EV-mediated Shank3-cKO allowed us to quantitatively examine the role of Shank3 in social memory. Our results suggested that there is a certain threshold for the proportion of Shank3-cKO neurons required for social memory disruption. Thus, our study provides insight into the population coding of social memory in vCA1, as well as the pathological mechanisms underlying social memory impairment in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Chung
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Imanaka
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ziyan Huang
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akiyuki Watarai
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mu-Yun Wang
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kentaro Tao
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Ejima
- Department of Materials Engineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomomi Aida
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Guoping Feng
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Teruhiro Okuyama
- Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
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3
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Fu S, Sun H, Wang J, Gao S, Zhu L, Cui K, Liu S, Qi X, Guan R, Fan X, Liu Q, Chen W, Su L, Cui S, Liao F, Liu F, Wong CCL, Yi M, Wan Y. Impaired neuronal macroautophagy in the prelimbic cortex contributes to comorbid anxiety-like behaviors in rats with chronic neuropathic pain. Autophagy 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38522078 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2024.2330038] [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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
A large proportion of patients with chronic pain experience co-morbid anxiety. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is proposed to underlie this comorbidity, but the molecular and neuronal mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we reported that impaired neuronal macroautophagy in the prelimbic cortical (PrL) subregion of the mPFC paralleled the occurrence of anxiety-like behaviors in rats with chronic spared nerve injury (SNI). Intriguingly, such macroautophagy impairment was mainly observed in a FOS/c-Fos+ neuronal subpopulation in the PrL. Chemogenetic inactivation of this comorbid anxiety-related neuronal ensemble relieved pain-induced anxiety-like behaviors. Rescuing macroautophagy impairment in this neuronal ensemble relieved chronic pain-associated anxiety and mechanical allodynia and restored synaptic homeostasis at the molecular level. By contrast, artificial disruption of macroautophagy induced early-onset co-morbid anxiety in neuropathic rats, but not general anxiety in normal rats. Taken together, our work identifies causal linkage between PrL neuronal macroautophagy dysfunction and comorbid anxiety in neuropathic pain and provides novel insights into the role of PrL by differentiating its contribution in pain-induced comorbid anxiety from its modulation over general anxiety-like behaviors.Abbreviation: AAV: adeno-associated viruses; ACC: anterior cingulate cortex; ATG5: autophagy related 5; ATG7: autophagy related 7; ATG12: autophagy related 12; CAMK2/CaMKII: calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II; CNO: clozapine-N-oxide; CQ: chloroquine; DIA: data independent acquisition; DIO: double floxed inverse orf; DLG4/PSD-95: discs large MAGUK scaffold protein 4; Dox: doxycycline; GABA: γ-aminobutyric acid; GFP: green fluorescent protein; GO: gene ontology; Gi: inhibitory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins; HsCHRM4/M4D: human cholinergic receptor muscarinic 4; HsSYN: human synapsin; KEGG: Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes; LAMP1: lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1; LC3-II: PE conjugated microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain3; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; mPFC: medial prefrontal cortex; P2A: 2A self-cleaving peptide; PPI: protein-protein interaction networks; PrL: prelimbic cortex; RBFOX3/NeuN: RNA binding protein, fox-1 homolog (C. elegans) 3; rtTA: reverse tetracycline-transactivator; SDS-PAGE: sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; SHANK3: SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 3; SLC1A1/EAAC1: solute carrier family 1 (neuronal/epithelial high affinity glutamate transporter, systemXag), member 1; SNAP23: synaptosomal-associated protein 23; SNI:spared nerve injury; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; SYT3: synaptotagmin 3; TRE: tetracycline-responsive element; TRE3G: third-generation tetracycline-responsive element.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Fu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Haojie Sun
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuaixin Gao
- Department of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Human Nutrition Program, Department of Human Sciences & James Comprehensive Cancer Center, 309 Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Liu Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Cui
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shimeng Liu
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Bioactive Molecule, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuetao Qi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Guan
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaocen Fan
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingying Liu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Su
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Cui
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Feifei Liao
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fengyu Liu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Catherine C L Wong
- Department of Medical Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - You Wan
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, P.R. China
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4
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Wu W, Zhang J, Chen Y, Chen Q, Liu Q, Zhang F, Li S, Wang X. Genes in Axonal Regeneration. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04049-z. [PMID: 38388774 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04049-z] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
This review explores the molecular and genetic underpinnings of axonal regeneration and functional recovery post-nerve injury, emphasizing its significance in reversing neurological deficits. It presents a systematic exploration of the roles of various genes in axonal regrowth across peripheral and central nerve injuries. Initially, it highlights genes and gene families critical for axonal growth and guidance, delving into their roles in regeneration. It then examines the regenerative microenvironment, focusing on the role of glial cells in neural repair through dedifferentiation, proliferation, and migration. The concept of "traumatic microenvironments" within the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) is discussed, noting their impact on regenerative capacities and their importance in therapeutic strategy development. Additionally, the review delves into axonal transport mechanisms essential for accurate growth and reinnervation, integrating insights from proteomics, genome-wide screenings, and gene editing advancements. Conclusively, it synthesizes these insights to offer a comprehensive understanding of axonal regeneration's molecular orchestration, aiming to inform effective nerve injury therapies and contribute to regenerative neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshuang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Qianyan Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion, Tuina and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
| | - Fuchao Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Shiying Li
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
| | - Xinghui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
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5
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Li L, Vasan L, Kartono B, Clifford K, Attarpour A, Sharma R, Mandrozos M, Kim A, Zhao W, Belotserkovsky A, Verkuyl C, Schmitt-Ulms G. Advances in Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2725. [PMID: 37893099 PMCID: PMC10603849 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are gene therapy delivery tools that offer a promising platform for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Keeping up with developments in this fast-moving area of research is a challenge. This review was thus written with the intention to introduce this field of study to those who are new to it and direct others who are struggling to stay abreast of the literature towards notable recent studies. In ten sections, we briefly highlight early milestones within this field and its first clinical success stories. We showcase current clinical trials, which focus on gene replacement, gene augmentation, or gene suppression strategies. Next, we discuss ongoing efforts to improve the tropism of rAAV vectors for brain applications and introduce pre-clinical research directed toward harnessing rAAV vectors for gene editing applications. Subsequently, we present common genetic elements coded by the single-stranded DNA of rAAV vectors, their so-called payloads. Our focus is on recent advances that are bound to increase treatment efficacies. As needed, we included studies outside the neurodegenerative disease field that showcased improved pre-clinical designs of all-in-one rAAV vectors for gene editing applications. Finally, we discuss risks associated with off-target effects and inadvertent immunogenicity that these technologies harbor as well as the mitigation strategies available to date to make their application safer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyao Li
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
| | - Lakshmy Vasan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Bryan Kartono
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Kevan Clifford
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), 250 College St., Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Ahmadreza Attarpour
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, 101 College St., Toronto, ON M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Raghav Sharma
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Matthew Mandrozos
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ain Kim
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Wenda Zhao
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ari Belotserkovsky
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Claire Verkuyl
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Gerold Schmitt-Ulms
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Krembil Discovery Centre, 6th Floor, 60 Leonard Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 6th Floor, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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6
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Lučanský V, Holubeková V, Kolková Z, Halašová E, Samec M, Golubnitschaja O. Multi-faceted CRISPR/Cas technological innovation aspects in the framework of 3P medicine. EPMA J 2023; 14:201-217. [PMID: 37275547 PMCID: PMC10201107 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-023-00324-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Since 2009, the European Association for Predictive, Preventive and Personalised Medicine (EPMA, Brussels) promotes the paradigm change from reactive approach to predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM/3PM) to protect individuals in sub-optimal health conditions from the health-to-disease transition, to increase life-quality of the affected patient cohorts improving, therefore, ethical standards and cost-efficacy of healthcare to great benefits of the society at large. The gene-editing technology utilizing CRISPR/Cas gene-editing approach has demonstrated its enormous value as a powerful tool in a broad spectrum of bio/medical research areas. Further, CRISPR/Cas gene-editing system is considered applicable to primary and secondary healthcare, in order to prevent disease spread and to treat clinically manifested disorders, involving diagnostics of SARS-Cov-2 infection and experimental treatment of COVID-19. Although the principle of the proposed gene editing is simple and elegant, there are a lot of technological challenges and ethical considerations to be solved prior to its broadly scaled clinical implementation. This article highlights technological innovation beyond the state of the art, exemplifies current achievements, discusses unsolved technological and ethical problems, and provides clinically relevant outlook in the framework of 3PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Lučanský
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Holubeková
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Kolková
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Erika Halašová
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin (JFMED CU), Biomedical Center, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Marek Samec
- Department of Pathophysiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Olga Golubnitschaja
- Predictive, Preventive, Personalised (3P) Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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7
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Duan W, Urani E, Mattson MP. The potential of gene editing for Huntington's disease. Trends Neurosci 2023; 46:365-376. [PMID: 36907678 PMCID: PMC10121915 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disorder caused by a trinucleotide repeat expansion in the huntingtin gene resulting in long stretches of polyglutamine repeats in the huntingtin protein. The disease involves progressive degeneration of neurons in the striatum and cerebral cortex resulting in loss of control of motor function, psychiatric problems, and cognitive deficits. There are as yet no treatments that can slow disease progression in HD. Recent advances in gene editing using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) systems and demonstrations of their ability to correct gene mutations in animal models of a range of diseases suggest that gene editing may prove effective in preventing or ameliorating HD. Here we describe (i) potential CRISPR-Cas designs and cellular delivery methods for the correction of mutant genes that cause inherited diseases, and (ii) recent preclinical findings demonstrating the efficacy of such gene-editing approaches in animal models, with a focus on HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhen Duan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Ece Urani
- Program in Molecular Biology and Genetics, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mark P Mattson
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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8
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Jiang Y, Liu Q, Zhao Y, Wang C, Sun M. Activation of CREB-BDNF Pathway in Pyramidal Neurons in the Hippocampus Improves the Neurological Outcome of Mice with Ischemic Stroke. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:1766-1781. [PMID: 36571720 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03174-x] [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: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral ischemia is characterized by several pathological reaction evolving over time. Hyperactivation of glutamatergic neurons is the main factor leading to excitotoxicity which potentiates oxidative stress and triggers the mechanisms of neural apoptosis after cerebral ischemia. However, it is unclear whether glutamate in the ventral hippocampal Cornus Ammonis 1 (vCA1) acts a part in neurological deficits, pain perception, anxiety, and depression induced by ischemic stroke. We investigated the effects of chemogenetic inhibition or activation of vCA1 pyramidal neurons which are mainly glutamatergic neurons on sequelae induced by cerebral ischemia. Our results revealed that inhibition of vCA1 pyramidal neurons by chemogenetics alleviated neurological deficits, pain perception, anxiety, and depression caused by cerebral ischemia in mice, but activation of vCA1 pyramidal neurons had limited effects. Moreover, we found that stroke was accompanied by decreased levels of cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in vCA1, which are modulated by glutamate. In this study, overexpression of CREB protein in pyramidal neurons in vCA1 by AAV virus significantly upregulated the content of BDNF and ameliorated the dysfunction induced by ischemic stroke. Our results demonstrated activation of the CREB-BDNF pathway in vCA1 pyramidal neurons significantly improved neurological deficits, pain perception, anxiety, and depression induced by ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Jiang
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingying Liu
- Department of Pain Management, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
| | - Yumei Zhao
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyang Wang
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Sun
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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9
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Metzger JM, Wang Y, Neuman SS, Snow KJ, Murray SA, Lutz CM, Bondarenko V, Felton J, Gimse K, Xie R, Li D, Zhao Y, Flowers MT, Simmons HA, Roy S, Saha K, Levine JE, Emborg ME, Gong S. Efficient in vivo neuronal genome editing in the mouse brain using nanocapsules containing CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoproteins. Biomaterials 2023; 293:121959. [PMID: 36527789 PMCID: PMC9868115 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing of somatic cells via clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) offers promise for new therapeutics to treat a variety of genetic disorders, including neurological diseases. However, the dense and complex parenchyma of the brain and the post-mitotic state of neurons make efficient genome editing challenging. In vivo delivery systems for CRISPR-Cas proteins and single guide RNA (sgRNA) include both viral vectors and non-viral strategies, each presenting different advantages and disadvantages for clinical application. We developed non-viral and biodegradable PEGylated nanocapsules (NCs) that deliver preassembled Cas9-sgRNA ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). Here, we show that the RNP NCs led to robust genome editing in neurons following intracerebral injection into the healthy mouse striatum. Genome editing was predominantly observed in medium spiny neurons (>80%), with occasional editing in cholinergic, calretinin, and parvalbumin interneurons. Glial activation was minimal and was localized along the needle tract. Our results demonstrate that the RNP NCs are capable of safe and efficient neuronal genome editing in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette M Metzger
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Yuyuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Samuel S Neuman
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Kathy J Snow
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609, USA
| | | | | | - Viktoriya Bondarenko
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Jesi Felton
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Kirstan Gimse
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ruosen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Dongdong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Matthew T Flowers
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Heather A Simmons
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Subhojit Roy
- Departments of Pathology and Neuroscience, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Krishanu Saha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Jon E Levine
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Marina E Emborg
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
| | - Shaoqin Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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10
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Combining CRISPR-Cas9 and brain imaging to study the link from genes to molecules to networks. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2122552119. [PMID: 36161926 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2122552119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptors, transporters, and ion channels are important targets for therapy development in neurological diseases, but their mechanistic role in pathogenesis is often poorly understood. Gene editing and in vivo imaging approaches will help to identify the molecular and functional role of these targets and the consequence of their regional dysfunction on the whole-brain level. We combine CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing with in vivo positron emission tomography (PET) and functional MRI (fMRI) to investigate the direct link between genes, molecules, and the brain connectome. The extensive knowledge of the Slc18a2 gene encoding the vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT2), involved in the storage and release of dopamine, makes it an excellent target for studying the gene network relationships while structurally preserving neuronal integrity and function. We edited the Slc18a2 in the substantia nigra pars compacta of adult rats and used in vivo molecular imaging besides behavioral, histological, and biochemical assessments to characterize the CRISPR-Cas9-mediated VMAT2 knockdown. Simultaneous PET/fMRI was performed to investigate molecular and functional brain alterations. We found that stage-specific adaptations of brain functional connectivity follow the selective impairment of presynaptic dopamine storage and release. Our study reveals that recruiting different brain networks is an early response to the dopaminergic dysfunction preceding neuronal cell loss. Our combinatorial approach is a tool to investigate the impact of specific genes on brain molecular and functional dynamics, which will help to develop tailored therapies for normalizing brain function.
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11
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Shin S, Jang S, Lim D. Small Molecules for Enhancing the Precision and Safety of Genome Editing. Molecules 2022; 27:6266. [PMID: 36234804 PMCID: PMC9573751 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27196266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based genome-editing technologies have revolutionized biology, biotechnology, and medicine, and have spurred the development of new therapeutic modalities. However, there remain several barriers to the safe use of CRISPR technologies, such as unintended off-target DNA cleavages. Small molecules are important resources to solve these problems, given their facile delivery and fast action to enable temporal control of the CRISPR systems. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of small molecules that can precisely modulate CRISPR-associated (Cas) nucleases and guide RNAs (gRNAs). We also discuss the small-molecule control of emerging genome editors (e.g., base editors) and anti-CRISPR proteins. These molecules could be used for the precise investigation of biological systems and the development of safer therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyoon Shin
- School of Biopharmaceutical and Medical Sciences, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
- Department of Next-Generation Applied Science, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
| | - Seeun Jang
- School of Biopharmaceutical and Medical Sciences, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
- Department of Next-Generation Applied Science, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
| | - Donghyun Lim
- School of Biopharmaceutical and Medical Sciences, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
- Department of Next-Generation Applied Science, Sungshin University, Seoul 01133, Korea
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12
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Nucleolus localization of SpyCas9 affects its stability and interferes with host protein translation in mammalian cells. Genes Dis 2022; 9:731-740. [PMID: 35782966 PMCID: PMC9243344 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR/Cas9 system, originally derived from the prokaryotic adaptive immune system, has been developed as efficient genome editing tools. It enables precise gene manipulation on chromosomal DNA through the specific binding of programmable sgRNA to target DNA, and the Cas9 protein, which has endonuclease activity, will cut a double strand break at specific locus. However, Cas9 is a foreign protein in mammalian cells, and the potential risks associated with its introduction into mammalian cells are not fully understood. In this study, we performed pull-down and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpyCas9) interacting proteins in HEK293T cells and showed that the majority of Cas9-associated proteins identified by MS were localized in the nucleolus. Interestingly, we further discovered that the Cas9 protein contains a sequence encoding a nucleolus detention signal (NoDS). Compared with wild-type (WT) Cas9, NoDS-mutated variants of Cas9 (mCas9) are less stable, although their gene editing activity is minimally affected. Overexpression of WT Cas9, but not mCas9, causes general effects on transcription and protein translation in the host cell. Overall, identification of NoDS in Cas9 will improve the understanding of Cas9's biological function in vivo, and the removal of NoDS in Cas9 may enhance its safety for future clinical use.
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13
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Transcriptomic mapping uncovers Purkinje neuron plasticity driving learning. Nature 2022; 605:722-727. [PMID: 35545673 PMCID: PMC9887520 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04711-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cellular diversification is critical for specialized functions of the brain including learning and memory1. Single-cell RNA sequencing facilitates transcriptomic profiling of distinct major types of neuron2-4, but the divergence of transcriptomic profiles within a neuronal population and their link to function remain poorly understood. Here we isolate nuclei tagged5 in specific cell types followed by single-nucleus RNA sequencing to profile Purkinje neurons and map their responses to motor activity and learning. We find that two major subpopulations of Purkinje neurons, identified by expression of the genes Aldoc and Plcb4, bear distinct transcriptomic features. Plcb4+, but not Aldoc+, Purkinje neurons exhibit robust plasticity of gene expression in mice subjected to sensorimotor and learning experience. In vivo calcium imaging and optogenetic perturbation reveal that Plcb4+ Purkinje neurons have a crucial role in associative learning. Integrating single-nucleus RNA sequencing datasets with weighted gene co-expression network analysis uncovers a learning gene module that includes components of FGFR2 signalling in Plcb4+ Purkinje neurons. Knockout of Fgfr2 in Plcb4+ Purkinje neurons in mice using CRISPR disrupts motor learning. Our findings define how diversification of Purkinje neurons is linked to their responses in motor learning and provide a foundation for understanding their differential vulnerability to neurological disorders.
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14
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Yang N, Liu F, Zhang X, Chen C, Xia Z, Fu S, Wang J, Xu J, Cui S, Zhang Y, Yi M, Wan Y, Li Q, Xu S. A Hybrid Titanium-Softmaterial, High-Strength, Transparent Cranial Window for Transcranial Injection and Neuroimaging. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12020129. [PMID: 35200389 PMCID: PMC8870569 DOI: 10.3390/bios12020129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
A transparent and penetrable cranial window is essential for neuroimaging, transcranial injection and comprehensive understanding of cortical functions. For these applications, cranial windows made from glass coverslip, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethylmethacrylate, crystal and silicone hydrogel have offered remarkable convenience. However, there is a lack of high-strength, high-transparency, penetrable cranial window with clinical application potential. We engineer high-strength hybrid Titanium-PDMS (Ti-PDMS) cranial windows, which allow large transparent area for in vivo two-photon imaging, and provide a soft window for transcranial injection. Laser scanning and 3D printing techniques are used to match the hybrid cranial window to different skull morphology. A multi-cycle degassing pouring process ensures a good combination of PDMS and Ti frame. Ti-PDMS cranial windows have a high fracture strength matching human skull bone, excellent light transmittance up to 94.4%, and refractive index close to biological tissue. Ti-PDMS cranial windows show excellent bio-compatibility during 21-week implantation in mice. Dye injection shows that the PDMS window has a "self-sealing" to keep liquid from leaking out. Two-photon imaging for brain tissues could be achieved up to 450 µm in z-depth. As a novel brain-computer-interface, this Ti-PDMS device offers an alternative choice for in vivo drug delivery, optical experiments, ultrasonic treatment and electrophysiology recording.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Yang
- Key Laboratory for the Physics & Chemistry of Nanodevices, Department of Electronics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; (N.Y.); (J.X.)
| | - Fengyu Liu
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (S.X.)
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China; (X.Z.); (Q.L.)
- National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Chenni Chen
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhiyuan Xia
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China;
| | - Su Fu
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jingjing Xu
- Key Laboratory for the Physics & Chemistry of Nanodevices, Department of Electronics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; (N.Y.); (J.X.)
- School of Microelectronics, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Shuang Cui
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - You Wan
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; (C.C.); (S.F.); (J.W.); (S.C.); (Y.Z.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qing Li
- Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China; (X.Z.); (Q.L.)
- National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Shengyong Xu
- Key Laboratory for the Physics & Chemistry of Nanodevices, Department of Electronics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; (N.Y.); (J.X.)
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (S.X.)
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15
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Wu HYJ. From mechanical objectivity to narrative turn: how film has inspired science on trauma. J Trauma Dissociation 2021; 22:439-451. [PMID: 34148515 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2021.1925864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This essay discusses the relationship between film and psychological trauma from the perspective of the history of science. It examines how the psychological sciences were influenced by image technology, primarily after the two world wars. Taking a closer look at the development of film production and mental imagery experiments as cultural and scientific institutions, this essay examines the challenges psychologists began to face when the paradigm of the trauma film was established in the pursuit of positivist evidence informed by mechanical objectivity. Over the past century, psychological trauma have been explained through the lens of psychiatric sciences and literary critics. However, they were not evenly emphasized and experimental psychology became the mainstream institution to manage trauma in clinical settings. This essay argues that explanations of trauma in the past century have been interdisciplinary. The limitations of trauma-related brain sciences could be ameliorated by re-emphasizing narratives explored in films produced for artistic or moral, rather than scientific, purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Yi-Jui Wu
- Cross College Elite Program, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
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16
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Han DH, Park P, Choi DI, Bliss TVP, Kaang BK. The essence of the engram: Cellular or synaptic? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 125:122-135. [PMID: 34103208 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Memory is composed of various phases including cellular consolidation, systems consolidation, reconsolidation, and extinction. In the last few years it has been shown that simple association memories can be encoded by a subset of the neuronal population called engram cells. Activity of these cells is necessary and sufficient for the recall of association memory. However, it is unclear which molecular mechanisms allow cellular engrams to encode the diverse phases of memory. Further research is needed to examine the possibility that it is the synapses between engram cells (the synaptic engram) that constitute the memory. In this review we summarize recent findings on cellular engrams with a focus on different phases of memory, and discuss the distinct molecular mechanism required for cellular and synaptic engrams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae Hee Han
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Pojeong Park
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Il Choi
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Tim V P Bliss
- Group leader emeritus, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Rd, Somers Town, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Bong-Kiun Kaang
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Song B, Kang CY, Han JH, Kano M, Konnerth A, Bae S. In vivo genome editing in single mammalian brain neurons through CRISPR-Cas9 and cytosine base editors. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:2477-2485. [PMID: 34025938 PMCID: PMC8113754 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.04.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene manipulation is a useful approach for understanding functions of genes and is important for investigating basic mechanisms of brain function on the level of single neurons and circuits. Despite the development and the wide range of applications of CRISPR-Cas9 and base editors (BEs), their implementation for an analysis of individual neurons in vivo remained limited. In fact, conventional gene manipulations are generally achieved only on the population level. Here, we combined either CRISPR-Cas9 or BEs with the targeted single-cell electroporation technique as a proof-of-concept test for gene manipulation in single neurons in vivo. Our assay consisted of CRISPR-Cas9- or BEs-induced gene knockout in single Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of both gene editing and base editing in single cells in the intact brain, providing a tool through which molecular perturbations of individual neurons can be used for analysis of circuits and, ultimately, behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beomjong Song
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Chan Young Kang
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Jun Hee Han
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea
| | - Masanobu Kano
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.,Department of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Arthur Konnerth
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.,Institute of Neuroscience, Technical University of Munich, 80802 Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology, Technical University of Munich, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Sangsu Bae
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea
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18
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Görücü Yilmaz S. Genome editing technologies: CRISPR, LEAPER, RESTORE, ARCUT, SATI, and RESCUE. EXCLI JOURNAL 2021; 20:19-45. [PMID: 33510590 PMCID: PMC7838830 DOI: 10.17179/excli2020-3070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing technologies include techniques used for desired genetic modifications and allow the insertion, modification or deletion of specific DNA fragments. Recent advances in genome biology offer unprecedented promise for interdisciplinary collaboration and applications in gene editing. New genome editing technologies enable specific and efficient genome modifications. The sources that inspire these modifications and already exist in the genome are DNA degradation enzymes and DNA repair pathways. Six of these recent technologies are the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), leveraging endogenous ADAR for programmable editing of RNA (LEAPER), recruiting endogenous ADAR to specific transcripts for oligonucleotide-mediated RNA editing (RESTORE), chemistry-based artificial restriction DNA cutter (ARCUT), single homology arm donor mediated intron-targeting integration (SATI), RNA editing for specific C-to-U exchange (RESCUE). These technologies are widely used from various biomedical researches to clinics, agriculture, and allow you to rearrange genomic sequences, create cell lines and animal models to solve human diseases. This review emphasizes the characteristics, superiority, limitations, also whether each technology can be used in different biological systems and the potential application of these systems in the treatment of several human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senay Görücü Yilmaz
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey 27310
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19
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Conniot J, Talebian S, Simões S, Ferreira L, Conde J. Revisiting gene delivery to the brain: silencing and editing. Biomater Sci 2020; 9:1065-1087. [PMID: 33315025 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01278e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders, ischemic brain diseases, and brain tumors are debilitating diseases that severely impact a person's life and could possibly lead to their demise if left untreated. Many of these diseases do not respond to small molecule therapeutics and have no effective long-term therapy. Gene therapy offers the promise of treatment or even a cure for both genetic and acquired brain diseases, mediated by either silencing or editing disease-specific genes. Indeed, in the last 5 years, significant progress has been made in the delivery of non-coding RNAs as well as gene-editing formulations to the brain. Unfortunately, the delivery is a major limiting factor for the success of gene therapies. Both viral and non-viral vectors have been used to deliver genetic information into a target cell, but they have limitations. Viral vectors provide excellent transduction efficiency but are associated with toxic effects and have limited packaging capacity; however, non-viral vectors are less toxic and show a high packaging capacity at the price of low transfection efficiency. Herein, we review the progress made in the field of brain gene therapy, particularly in the design of non-toxic and trackable non-viral vectors, capable of controlled release of genes in response to internal/external triggers, and in the delivery of formulations for gene editing. The application of these systems in the context of various brain diseases in pre-clinical and clinical tests will be discussed. Such promising approaches could potentially pave the way for clinical realization of brain gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Conniot
- NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal.
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20
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Sun H, Zheng J, Yi M, Wan Y. Conditional Genome Editing in the Mammalian Brain Using CRISPR-Cas9. Neurosci Bull 2020; 37:423-426. [PMID: 33099727 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00599-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Haojie Sun
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China.,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission of China, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - You Wan
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China. .,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission of China, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China.
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21
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Szpirer C. Rat models of human diseases and related phenotypes: a systematic inventory of the causative genes. J Biomed Sci 2020; 27:84. [PMID: 32741357 PMCID: PMC7395987 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-020-00673-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The laboratory rat has been used for a long time as the model of choice in several biomedical disciplines. Numerous inbred strains have been isolated, displaying a wide range of phenotypes and providing many models of human traits and diseases. Rat genome mapping and genomics was considerably developed in the last decades. The availability of these resources has stimulated numerous studies aimed at discovering causal disease genes by positional identification. Numerous rat genes have now been identified that underlie monogenic or complex diseases and remarkably, these results have been translated to the human in a significant proportion of cases, leading to the identification of novel human disease susceptibility genes, helping in studying the mechanisms underlying the pathological abnormalities and also suggesting new therapeutic approaches. In addition, reverse genetic tools have been developed. Several genome-editing methods were introduced to generate targeted mutations in genes the function of which could be clarified in this manner [generally these are knockout mutations]. Furthermore, even when the human gene causing a disease had been identified without resorting to a rat model, mutated rat strains (in particular KO strains) were created to analyze the gene function and the disease pathogenesis. Today, over 350 rat genes have been identified as underlying diseases or playing a key role in critical biological processes that are altered in diseases, thereby providing a rich resource of disease models. This article is an update of the progress made in this research and provides the reader with an inventory of these disease genes, a significant number of which have similar effects in rat and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Szpirer
- Université Libre de Bruxelles, B-6041, Gosselies, Belgium.
- , Waterloo, Belgium.
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