1
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Sobol RW. Mouse models to explore the biological and organismic role of DNA polymerase beta. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2024; 65 Suppl 1:57-71. [PMID: 38619421 PMCID: PMC11027944 DOI: 10.1002/em.22593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Gene knock-out (KO) mouse models for DNA polymerase beta (Polβ) revealed that loss of Polβ leads to neonatal lethality, highlighting the critical organismic role for this DNA polymerase. While biochemical analysis and gene KO cell lines have confirmed its biochemical role in base excision repair and in TET-mediated demethylation, more long-lived mouse models continue to be developed to further define its organismic role. The Polb-KO mouse was the first of the Cre-mediated tissue-specific KO mouse models. This technology was exploited to investigate roles for Polβ in V(D)J recombination (variable-diversity-joining rearrangement), DNA demethylation, gene complementation, SPO11-induced DNA double-strand break repair, germ cell genome stability, as well as neuronal differentiation, susceptibility to genotoxin-induced DNA damage, and cancer onset. The revolution in knock-in (KI) mouse models was made possible by CRISPR/cas9-mediated gene editing directly in C57BL/6 zygotes. This technology has helped identify phenotypes associated with germline or somatic mutants of Polβ. Such KI mouse models have helped uncover the importance of key Polβ active site residues or specific Polβ enzyme activities, such as the PolbY265C mouse that develops lupus symptoms. More recently, we have used this KI technology to mutate the Polb gene with two codon changes, yielding the PolbL301R/V303R mouse. In this KI mouse model, the expressed Polβ protein cannot bind to its obligate heterodimer partner, Xrcc1. Although the expressed mutant Polβ protein is proteolytically unstable and defective in recruitment to sites of DNA damage, the homozygous PolbL301R/V303R mouse is viable and fertile, yet small in stature. We expect that this and additional targeted mouse models under development are poised to reveal new biological and organismic roles for Polβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W. Sobol
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School & Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912
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2
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Neuropeptidomic Analysis of a Genetically Defined Cell Type in Mouse Brain and Pituitary. Cell Chem Biol 2020; 28:105-112.e4. [PMID: 33217339 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2020.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides and peptide hormones are important cell-cell signaling molecules that mediate many physiological processes. Unlike classic neurotransmitters, peptides undergo cell-type-specific post-translational modifications that affect their biological activity. To enable the identification of the peptide repertoire of a genetically defined cell type, we generated mice with a conditional disruption of the gene for carboxypeptidase E (Cpe), an essential neuropeptide-processing enzyme. The loss of Cpe leads to accumulation of neuropeptide precursors containing C-terminal basic residues, which serve as tags for affinity purification. The purified peptides are subsequently identified using quantitative peptidomics, thereby revealing the specific forms of neuropeptides in cells with the disrupted Cpe gene. To validate the method, we used mice expressing Cre recombinase under the proopiomelanocortin (Pomc) promoter and analyzed hypothalamic and pituitary extracts, detecting peptides derived from proopiomelanocortin (as expected) and also proSAAS in POMC neurons. This technique enables the analyses of specific forms of peptides in any Cre-expressing cell type.
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3
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Chen C, Shiota C, Agostinelli G, Ridley D, Jiang Y, Ma J, Prasadan K, Xiao X, Gittes GK. Evidence of a developmental origin for β-cell heterogeneity using a dual lineage-tracing technology. Development 2019; 146:dev.164913. [PMID: 31160417 DOI: 10.1242/dev.164913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The Cre/loxP system has been used extensively in mouse models with a limitation of one lineage at a time. Differences in function and other properties among populations of adult β-cells is termed β-cell heterogeneity, which was recently associated with diabetic phenotypes. Nevertheless, the presence of a developmentally derived β-cell heterogeneity is unclear. Here, we have developed a novel dual lineage-tracing technology, using a combination of two recombinase systems, Dre/RoxP and Cre/LoxP, to independently trace green fluorescent Pdx1-lineage cells and red fluorescent Ptf1a-lineage cells in the developing and adult mouse pancreas. We detected a few Pdx1+/Ptf1a- lineage cells in addition to the vast majority of Pdx1+/Ptf1a+ lineage cells in the pancreas. Moreover, Pdx1+/Ptf1a+ lineage β-cells had fewer Ki-67+ proliferating β-cells, and expressed higher mRNA levels of insulin, Glut2, Pdx1, MafA and Nkx6.1, but lower CCND1 and CDK4 levels, compared with Pdx1+/Ptf1a- lineage β-cells. Furthermore, more TSQ-high, SSC-high cells were detected in the Pdx1+Ptf1a+ lineage population than in the Pdx1+Ptf1a- lineage population. Together, these data suggest that differential activation of Ptf1a in the developing pancreas may correlate with this β-cell heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congde Chen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.,Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Chiyo Shiota
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA.,Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Guy Agostinelli
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Daniel Ridley
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Yinan Jiang
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Jie Ma
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Krishna Prasadan
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Xiangwei Xiao
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - George K Gittes
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
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4
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Lam PT, Padula SL, Hoang TV, Poth JE, Liu L, Liang C, LeFever AS, Wallace LM, Ashery-Padan R, Riggs PK, Shields JE, Shaham O, Rowan S, Brown NL, Glaser T, Robinson ML. Considerations for the use of Cre recombinase for conditional gene deletion in the mouse lens. Hum Genomics 2019; 13:10. [PMID: 30770771 PMCID: PMC6377743 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-019-0192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite a number of different transgenes that can mediate DNA deletion in the developing lens, each has unique features that can make a given transgenic line more or less appropriate for particular studies. The purpose of this work encompasses both a review of transgenes that lead to the expression of Cre recombinase in the lens and a comparative analysis of currently available transgenic lines with a particular emphasis on the Le-Cre and P0-3.9GFPCre lines that can mediate DNA deletion in the lens placode. Although both of these transgenes are driven by elements of the Pax6 P0 promoter, the Le-Cre transgene consistently leads to ocular abnormalities in homozygous state and can lead to ocular defects on some genetic backgrounds when hemizygous. Result Although both P0-3.9GFPCre and Le-Cre hemizygous transgenic mice undergo normal eye development on an FVB/N genetic background, Le-Cre homozygotes uniquely exhibit microphthalmia. Examination of the expression patterns of these two transgenes revealed similar expression in the developing eye and pancreas. However, lineage tracing revealed widespread non-ocular CRE reporter gene expression in the P0-3.9GFPCre transgenic mice that results from stochastic CRE expression in the P0-3.9GFPCre embryos prior to lens placode formation. Postnatal hemizygous Le-Cre transgenic lenses express higher levels of CRE transcript and protein than the hemizygous lenses of P0-3.9GFPCre mice. Transcriptome analysis revealed that Le-Cre hemizygous lenses deregulated the expression of 15 murine genes, several of which are associated with apoptosis. In contrast, P0-3.9GFPCre hemizygous lenses only deregulated two murine genes. No known PAX6-responsive genes or genes directly associated with lens differentiation were deregulated in the hemizygous Le-Cre lenses. Conclusions Although P0-3.9GFPCre transgenic mice appear free from ocular abnormalities, extensive non-ocular CRE expression represents a potential problem for conditional gene deletion studies using this transgene. The higher level of CRE expression in Le-Cre lenses versus P0-3.9GFPCre lenses may explain abnormal lens development in homozygous Le-Cre mice. Given the lack of deregulation of PAX6-responsive transcripts, we suggest that abnormal eye development in Le-Cre transgenic mice stems from CRE toxicity. Our studies reinforce the requirement for appropriate CRE-only expressing controls when using CRE as a driver of conditional gene targeting strategies. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40246-019-0192-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong T Lam
- Department of Biology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | | | - Thanh V Hoang
- Department of Biology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA.,Present Address: Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Justin E Poth
- Department of Biology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Biology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Chun Liang
- Department of Biology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Adam S LeFever
- Nuclear Medicine Department, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, 234 Goodman Street, Cincinnati, OH, 45219, USA
| | - Lindsay M Wallace
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Ruth Ashery-Padan
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Penny K Riggs
- Department of Animal Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-2471, USA
| | - Jordan E Shields
- Department of Animal Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-2471, USA.,Present Address: Emory Children's Center, Room 410, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ohad Shaham
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sheldon Rowan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Nadean L Brown
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Tom Glaser
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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5
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A single reporter mouse line for Vika, Flp, Dre, and Cre-recombination. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14453. [PMID: 30262904 PMCID: PMC6160450 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32802-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Site-specific recombinases (SSR) are utilized as important genome engineering tools to precisely modify the genome of mice and other model organisms. Reporter mice that mark cells that at any given time had expressed the enzyme are frequently used for lineage tracing and to characterize newly generated mice expressing a recombinase from a chosen promoter. With increasing sophistication of genome alteration strategies, the demand for novel SSR systems that efficiently and specifically recombine their targets is rising and several SSR-systems are now used in combination to address complex biological questions in vivo. Generation of reporter mice for each one of these recombinases is cumbersome and increases the number of mouse lines that need to be maintained in animal facilities. Here we present a multi-reporter mouse line for loci-of-recombination (X) (MuX) that streamlines the characterization of mice expressing prominent recombinases. MuX mice constitutively express nuclear green fluorescent protein after recombination by either Cre, Flp, Dre or Vika recombinase, rationalizing the number of animal lines that need to be maintained. We also pioneer the use of the Vika/vox system in mice, illustrating its high efficacy and specificity, thereby facilitating future designs of sophisticated recombinase-based in vivo genome engineering strategies.
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6
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Sato S, Furuta Y, Kawakami K. Regulation of continuous but complex expression pattern of Six1 during early sensory development. Dev Dyn 2017; 247:250-261. [PMID: 29106072 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vertebrates, cranial sensory placodes give rise to neurosensory and endocrine structures, such as the olfactory epithelium, inner ear, and anterior pituitary. We report here the establishment of a transgenic mouse line that expresses Cre recombinase under the control of Six1-21, a major placodal enhancer of the homeobox gene Six1. RESULTS In the new Cre-expressing line, mSix1-21-NLSCre, the earliest Cre-mediated recombination was induced at embryonic day 8.5 in the region overlapping with the otic-epibranchial progenitor domain (OEPD), a transient, common precursor domain for the otic and epibranchial placodes. Recombination was later observed in the OEPD-derived structures (the entire inner ear and the VIIth-Xth cranial sensory ganglia), olfactory epithelium, anterior pituitary, pharyngeal ectoderm and pouches. Other Six1-positive structures, such as salivary/lacrimal glands and limb buds, were also positive for recombination. Moreover, comparison with another mouse line expressing Cre under the control of the sensory neuron enhancer, Six1-8, indicated that the continuous and complex expression pattern of Six1 during sensory organ formation is pieced together by separate enhancers. CONCLUSIONS mSix1-21-NLSCre has several unique characteristics to make it suitable for analysis of cell lineage and gene function in sensory placodes as well as nonplacodal Six1-positive structures. Developmental Dynamics 247:250-261, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Sato
- Division of Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yasuhide Furuta
- Animal Resource Development Unit and Genetic Engineering Team, Division of Bio-function Dynamics Imaging, RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies (CLST), Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Kawakami
- Division of Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
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7
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Wang L, Li MY, Qu C, Miao WY, Yin Q, Liao J, Cao HT, Huang M, Wang K, Zuo E, Peng G, Zhang SX, Chen G, Li Q, Tang K, Yu Q, Li Z, Wong CC, Xu G, Jing N, Yu X, Li J. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing in one blastomere of two-cell embryos reveals a novel Tet3 function in regulating neocortical development. Cell Res 2017; 27:815-829. [PMID: 28429771 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2017.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Studying the early function of essential genes is an important and challenging problem in developmental biology. Here, we established a method for rapidly inducing CRISPR-Cas9-mediated mutations in one blastomere of two-cell stage embryos, termed 2-cell embryo-CRISPR-Cas9 injection (2CC), to study the in vivo function of essential (or unknown) genes in founder chimeric mice. By injecting both Cre mRNA and CRISPR-Cas9 targeting the gene of interest into fluorescent reporter mice, the 2CC method can trace both wild-type and mutant cells at different developmental stages, offering internal control for phenotypic analyses of mutant cells. Using this method, we identified novel functions of the essential gene Tet3 in regulating excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission in the developing mouse cerebral cortex. By generating chimeric mutant mice, the 2CC method allows for the rapid screening of gene function in multiple tissues and cell types in founder chimeric mice, significantly expanding the current armamentarium of genetic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingbo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Min-Yin Li
- Institute of Neuroscience and State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Chao Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Wan-Ying Miao
- Institute of Neuroscience and State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Qi Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jiaoyang Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Hua-Teng Cao
- Institute of Neuroscience and State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Min Huang
- National Center for Protein Science Shanghai, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 333 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Shanghai Science Research Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Kai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Erwei Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Guangdun Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Shu-Xin Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience and State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Guodong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Qing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Ke Tang
- Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Qian Yu
- Animal Core Facility, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Zhoujie Li
- Animal Core Facility, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Catherine Cl Wong
- National Center for Protein Science Shanghai, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 333 Haike Road, Shanghai 201203, China.,Shanghai Science Research Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Guoliang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Naihe Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xiang Yu
- Institute of Neuroscience and State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jinsong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
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8
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Hatsell SJ, Idone V, Wolken DMA, Huang L, Kim HJ, Wang L, Wen X, Nannuru KC, Jimenez J, Xie L, Das N, Makhoul G, Chernomorsky R, D'Ambrosio D, Corpina RA, Schoenherr CJ, Feeley K, Yu PB, Yancopoulos GD, Murphy AJ, Economides AN. ACVR1R206H receptor mutation causes fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva by imparting responsiveness to activin A. Sci Transl Med 2016; 7:303ra137. [PMID: 26333933 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aac4358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 312] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by episodically exuberant heterotopic ossification (HO), whereby skeletal muscle is abnormally converted into misplaced, but histologically normal bone. This HO leads to progressive immobility with catastrophic consequences, including death by asphyxiation. FOP results from mutations in the intracellular domain of the type I BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) receptor ACVR1; the most common mutation alters arginine 206 to histidine (ACVR1(R206H)) and has been thought to drive inappropriate bone formation as a result of receptor hyperactivity. We unexpectedly found that this mutation rendered ACVR1 responsive to the activin family of ligands, which generally antagonize BMP signaling through ACVR1 but cannot normally induce bone formation. To test the implications of this finding in vivo, we engineered mice to carry the Acvr1(R206H) mutation. Because mice that constitutively express Acvr1[R206H] die perinatally, we generated a genetically humanized conditional-on knock-in model for this mutation. When Acvr1[R206H] expression was induced, mice developed HO resembling that of FOP; HO could also be triggered by activin A administration in this mouse model of FOP but not in wild-type controls. Finally, HO was blocked by broad-acting BMP blockers, as well as by a fully human antibody specific to activin A. Our results suggest that ACVR1(R206H) causes FOP by gaining responsiveness to the normally antagonistic ligand activin A, demonstrating that this ligand is necessary and sufficient for driving HO in a genetically accurate model of FOP; hence, our human antibody to activin A represents a potential therapeutic approach for FOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Hatsell
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Vincent Idone
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Dana M Alessi Wolken
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Lily Huang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Hyon J Kim
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Lili Wang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Xialing Wen
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Kalyan C Nannuru
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Johanna Jimenez
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Liqin Xie
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Nanditha Das
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Genevieve Makhoul
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | - David D'Ambrosio
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Richard A Corpina
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | | | - Kieran Feeley
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Paul B Yu
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 20 Shattuck Street, Thorn Biosciences 1203, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - George D Yancopoulos
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Andrew J Murphy
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Aris N Economides
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA. Regeneron Genetics Center Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
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9
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Tan W, Proudfoot C, Lillico SG, Whitelaw CBA. Gene targeting, genome editing: from Dolly to editors. Transgenic Res 2016; 25:273-87. [PMID: 26847670 PMCID: PMC4882362 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-016-9932-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
One of the most powerful strategies to investigate biology we have as scientists, is the ability to transfer genetic material in a controlled and deliberate manner between organisms. When applied to livestock, applications worthy of commercial venture can be devised. Although initial methods used to generate transgenic livestock resulted in random transgene insertion, the development of SCNT technology enabled homologous recombination gene targeting strategies to be used in livestock. Much has been accomplished using this approach. However, now we have the ability to change a specific base in the genome without leaving any other DNA mark, with no need for a transgene. With the advent of the genome editors this is now possible and like other significant technological leaps, the result is an even greater diversity of possible applications. Indeed, in merely 5 years, these 'molecular scissors' have enabled the production of more than 300 differently edited pigs, cattle, sheep and goats. The advent of genome editors has brought genetic engineering of livestock to a position where industry, the public and politicians are all eager to see real use of genetically engineered livestock to address societal needs. Since the first transgenic livestock reported just over three decades ago the field of livestock biotechnology has come a long way-but the most exciting period is just starting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfang Tan
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG UK
| | - Chris Proudfoot
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG UK
| | - Simon G. Lillico
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG UK
| | - C. Bruce A. Whitelaw
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG UK
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10
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Meinke G, Bohm A, Hauber J, Pisabarro MT, Buchholz F. Cre Recombinase and Other Tyrosine Recombinases. Chem Rev 2016; 116:12785-12820. [PMID: 27163859 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.6b00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Tyrosine-type site-specific recombinases (T-SSRs) have opened new avenues for the predictable modification of genomes as they enable precise genome editing in heterologous hosts. These enzymes are ubiquitous in eubacteria, prevalent in archaea and temperate phages, present in certain yeast strains, but barely found in higher eukaryotes. As tools they find increasing use for the generation and systematic modification of genomes in a plethora of organisms. If applied in host organisms, they enable precise DNA cleavage and ligation without the gain or loss of nucleotides. Criteria directing the choice of the most appropriate T-SSR system for genetic engineering include that, whenever possible, the recombinase should act independent of cofactors and that the target sequences should be long enough to be unique in a given genome. This review is focused on recent advancements in our mechanistic understanding of simple T-SSRs and their application in developmental and synthetic biology, as well as in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen Meinke
- Department of Developmental, Molecular & Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts 02111, United States
| | - Andrew Bohm
- Department of Developmental, Molecular & Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts 02111, United States
| | - Joachim Hauber
- Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology , 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Frank Buchholz
- Medical Systems Biology, UCC, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus TU Dresden , 01307 Dresden, Germany
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11
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O'Hara L, Smith LB. Development and Characterization of Cell-Specific Androgen Receptor Knockout Mice. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1443:219-248. [PMID: 27246343 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3724-0_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Conditional gene targeting has revolutionized molecular genetic analysis of nuclear receptor proteins, however development and analysis of such conditional knockouts is far from simple, with many caveats and pitfalls waiting to snare the novice or unprepared. In this chapter, we describe our experience of generating and analyzing mouse models with conditional ablation of the androgen receptor (AR) from tissues of the reproductive system and other organs. The guidance, suggestions, and protocols outlined in the chapter provide the key starting point for analyses of conditional-ARKO mice, completing them as described provides an excellent framework for further focussed project-specific analyses, and applies equally well to analysis of reproductive tissues from any mouse model generated through conditional gene targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Hara
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
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12
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Abstract
Site-specific recombinases (SSRs) such as Cre are widely used in gene targeting and genetic approaches for cell labeling and manipulation. They mediate DNA strand exchange between two DNA molecules at dedicated recognition sites. Precise understanding of the Cre recombination mechanism, including the role of individual base pairs in its loxP target site, guided the generation of mutant lox sites that specifically recombine with themselves but not with the wild type loxP. This has led to the development of a variety of combinatorial Cre-dependent genetic strategies, such as multicolor reporters, irreversible inversions, or recombination-mediated cassette exchange. Dre, a Cre-related phage integrase that recognizes roxP sites, does not cross-react with the Cre-loxP system, but has similar recombination efficiency. We have previously described intersectional genetic strategies combining Dre and Cre. We now report a mutagenesis screen aimed at identifying roxP base pairs critical for self-recognition. We describe several rox variant sites that are incompatible with roxP, but are able to efficiently recombine with themselves in either purified systems or bacterial and eukaryotic tissue culture systems. These newly identified rox sites are not recognized by Cre, thus enabling potential combinatorial strategies involving Cre, Dre, and target loci including multiple loxP and roxP variants.
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13
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Dobrin A, Saxena P, Fussenegger M. Synthetic biology: applying biological circuits beyond novel therapies. Integr Biol (Camb) 2015; 8:409-30. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ib00263j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anton Dobrin
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pratik Saxena
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
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14
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Dolatshad H, Biggs D, Diaz R, Hortin N, Preece C, Davies B. A versatile transgenic allele for mouse overexpression studies. Mamm Genome 2015; 26:598-608. [PMID: 26369329 PMCID: PMC4653235 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-015-9602-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
For the analysis of gene function in vivo, gene overexpression in the mouse provides an alternative to loss-of-function knock-out approaches and can help reveal phenotypes where compensatory mechanisms are at play. Furthermore, when multiple lines overexpressing a gene-of-interest at varying levels are studied, the consequences of differences in gene dosage can be explored. Despite these advantages, inherent shortcomings in the methodologies used for the generation of gain-of-function transgenic mouse models have limited their application to functional gene analysis, and the necessity for multiple lines comes at a significant animal and financial cost. The targeting of transgenic overexpression constructs at single copy into neutral genomic loci is the preferred method for the generation of such models, which avoids the unpredictable outcomes associated with conventional random integration. However, despite the increased reliability that targeted transgenic methodologies provide, only one expression level results, as defined by the promoter used. Here, we report a new versatile overexpression allele, the promoter-switch allele, which couples PhiC31 integrase-targeted transgenesis with Flp recombinase promoter switching and Cre recombinase activation. These recombination switches allow the conversion of different overexpression alleles, combining the advantages of transgenic targeting with tunable transgene expression. With this approach, phenotype severity can be correlated with transgene expression in a single mouse model, providing a cost-effective solution amenable to systematic gain-of-function studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Dolatshad
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Daniel Biggs
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Rebeca Diaz
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Nicole Hortin
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Christopher Preece
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Benjamin Davies
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK.
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15
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Jungke P, Hammer J, Hans S, Brand M. Isolation of Novel CreERT2-Driver Lines in Zebrafish Using an Unbiased Gene Trap Approach. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129072. [PMID: 26083735 PMCID: PMC4471347 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene manipulation using the Cre/loxP-recombinase system has been successfully employed in zebrafish to study gene functions and lineage relationships. Recently, gene trapping approaches have been applied to produce large collections of transgenic fish expressing conditional alleles in various tissues. However, the limited number of available cell- and tissue-specific Cre/CreERT2-driver lines still constrains widespread application in this model organism. To enlarge the pool of existing CreERT2-driver lines, we performed a genome-wide gene trap screen using a Tol2-based mCherry-T2a-CreERT2 (mCT2aC) gene trap vector. This cassette consists of a splice acceptor and a mCherry-tagged variant of CreERT2 which enables simultaneous labeling of the trapping event, as well as CreERT2 expression from the endogenous promoter. Using this strategy, we generated 27 novel functional CreERT2-driver lines expressing in a cell- and tissue-specific manner during development and adulthood. This study summarizes the analysis of the generated CreERT2-driver lines with respect to functionality, expression, integration, as well as associated phenotypes. Our results significantly enlarge the existing pool of CreERT2-driver lines in zebrafish and combined with Cre-dependent effector lines, the new CreERT2-driver lines will be important tools to manipulate the zebrafish genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peggy Jungke
- Biotechnology Center and Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Dresden University of Technology, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Juliane Hammer
- Biotechnology Center and Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Dresden University of Technology, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan Hans
- Biotechnology Center and Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Dresden University of Technology, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Brand
- Biotechnology Center and Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Dresden University of Technology, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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16
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Carofino BL, Justice MJ. Tissue-Specific Regulation of Oncogene Expression Using Cre-Inducible ROSA26 Knock-In Transgenic Mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 5:187-204. [PMID: 26069083 DOI: 10.1002/9780470942390.mo140150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Cre-inducible mouse models are often utilized for the spatial and temporal expression of oncogenes. With the wide number of Cre recombinase lines available, inducible transgenesis represents a tractable approach to achieve discrete oncogene expression. Here, we describe a protocol for targeting Cre-inducible genes to the ubiquitously expressed ROSA26 locus. Gene targeting provides several advantages over standard transgenic techniques, including a known site of integration and previously characterized pattern of expression. Historically, an inherent instability of ROSA26 targeting vectors has hampered the efficiency of developing ROSA26 knock-in lines. In this protocol, we provide individual steps for utilizing Gateway recombination for cloning as well as detailed instructions for screening targeted ES cell clones. By following this protocol, one can achieve germline transmission of a ROSA26 knock-in line within several months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandi L Carofino
- Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Monica J Justice
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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17
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The emerging framework of mammalian auditory hindbrain development. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 361:33-48. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2110-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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18
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Generating Mouse Models of Mitochondrial Disease. Mov Disord 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-405195-9.00043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] Open
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19
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Abstract
In 2007, three scientists, Drs. Mario R. Capecchi, Martin J. Evans, and Oliver Smithies, received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their contributions of introducing specific gene modifications into mice. This technology, commonly referred to as gene targeting or knockout, has proven to be a powerful means for precisely manipulating the mammalian genome and has generated great impacts on virtually all phases of mammalian biology and basic biomedical research. Of note, germline mutations of many genes, especially tumor suppressors, often result in lethality during embryonic development or at developmental stages before tumor formation. This obstacle has been effectively overcome by the use of conditional knockout technology in conjunction with Cre-LoxP- or Flp-Frt-mediated temporal and/or spatial systems to generate genetic switches for precise DNA recombination. Currently, numerous conditional knockout mouse models have been successfully generated and applied in studying tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. This review summarizes some conditional mutant mouse models that are widely used in cancer research and our understanding of the possible mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-Xia Deng
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
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20
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The M33 G protein-coupled receptor encoded by murine cytomegalovirus is dispensable for hematogenous dissemination but is required for growth within the salivary gland. J Virol 2014; 88:11811-24. [PMID: 25100846 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01006-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a pathogen found worldwide and is a serious threat to immunocompromised individuals and developing fetuses. Due to the species specificity of cytomegaloviruses, murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) has been used as a model for in vivo studies of HCMV pathogenesis. The MCMV genome, like the genomes of other beta- and gammaherpesviruses, encodes G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that modulate host signaling pathways presumably to facilitate viral replication and dissemination. Among these viral receptors, the M33 GPCR carried by MCMV is an activator of CREB, NF-κB, and phospholipase C-β signaling pathways and has been implicated in aspects of pathogenesis in vivo, including persistence in the salivary glands of BALB/c mice. In this study, we used immunocompetent nonobese diabetic (NOD) and immunocompromised NOD-scid-gamma (NSG) mice to further investigate the salivary gland defect exhibited by M33 deficiency. Interestingly, we demonstrate that virus with an M33 deletion (ΔM33) can replicate in the salivary gland of immunocompromised animals, albeit with a 400-fold growth defect compared with the growth of wild-type virus. Moreover, we determined that M33 does not have a role in cell-associated hematogenous dissemination but is required for viral amplification once the virus reaches the salivary gland. We conclude that the reduced replicative capacity of the ΔM33 virus is due to a specific defect occurring within the localized environment of the salivary gland. Importantly, since the salivary gland represents a site essential for persistence and horizontal transmission, an understanding of the mechanisms of viral replication within this site could lead to the generation of novel therapeutics useful for the prevention of HCMV spread. Importance: Human cytomegalovirus infects the majority of the American people and can reside silently in infected individuals for the duration of their lives. Under a number of circumstances, the virus can reactivate, leading to a variety of diseases in both adults and developing babies, and therefore, identifying the function of viral proteins is essential to understand how the virus spreads and causes disease. We aim to utilize animal models to study the function of an important class of viral proteins termed G protein-coupled receptors with the ultimate goal of developing inhibitors to these proteins that could one day be used to prevent viral spread.
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21
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Sharma S, Zhu J. Immunologic applications of conditional gene modification technology in the mouse. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 105:10.34.1-10.34.13. [PMID: 24700321 DOI: 10.1002/0471142735.im1034s105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Since the success of homologous recombination in altering mouse genome and the discovery of Cre-loxP system, the combination of these two breakthroughs has created important applications for studying the immune system in the mouse. Here, we briefly summarize the general principles of this technology and its applications in studying immune cell development and responses; such implications include conditional gene knockout and inducible and/or tissue-specific gene over-expression, as well as lineage fate mapping. We then discuss the pros and cons of a few commonly used Cre-expressing mouse lines for studying lymphocyte development and functions. We also raise several general issues, such as efficiency of gene deletion, leaky activity of Cre, and Cre toxicity, all of which may have profound impacts on data interpretation. Finally, we selectively list some useful links to the Web sites as valuable mouse resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suveena Sharma
- Molecular and Cellular Immunoregulation Unit, Laboratory of Immunology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jinfang Zhu
- Molecular and Cellular Immunoregulation Unit, Laboratory of Immunology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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22
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Genetically engineered mouse models for epithelial ovarian cancer: are we there yet? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 27:106-17. [PMID: 24685617 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The development of preclinical spontaneous genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) requires an understanding of the genetic basis of the human disease. Such robust models have proven invaluable for increasing understanding of human malignancies as well as identifying new biomarkers and testing new therapies for these diseases. While GEMMs have been reported for ovarian cancer, the majority have proven disappointing overall in their recapitulation of paired genetic and histological features especially for serous ovarian epithelial cancer. This review describes GEMMs for ovarian cancer, in particular, high grade serous ovarian cancer and assesses these in light of recent changes in our understanding of the human malignancy.
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23
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O'Hara L, York JP, Zhang P, Smith LB. Targeting of GFP-Cre to the mouse Cyp11a1 locus both drives cre recombinase expression in steroidogenic cells and permits generation of Cyp11a1 knock out mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e84541. [PMID: 24404170 PMCID: PMC3880310 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
To permit conditional gene targeting of floxed alleles in steroidogenic cell-types we have generated a transgenic mouse line that expresses Cre Recombinase under the regulation of the endogenous Cytochrome P450 side chain cleavage enzyme (Cyp11a1) promoter. Mice Carrying the Cyp11a1-GC (GFP-Cre) allele express Cre Recombinase in fetal adrenal and testis, and adrenal cortex, testicular Leydig cells (and a small proportion of Sertoli cells), theca cells of the ovary, and the hindbrain in postnatal life. Circulating testosterone concentration is unchanged in Cyp11+/GC males, suggesting steroidogenesis is unaffected by loss of one allele of Cyp11a1, mice are grossly normal, and Cre Recombinase functions to recombine floxed alleles of both a YFP reporter gene and the Androgen Receptor (AR) in steroidogenic cells of the testis, ovary, adrenal and hindbrain. Additionally, when bred to homozygosity (Cyp11a1GC/GC), knock-in of GFP-Cre to the endogenous Cyp11a1 locus results in a novel mouse model lacking endogenous Cyp11a1 (P450-SCC) function. This unique dual-purpose model has utility both for those wishing to conditionally target genes within steroidogenic cell types and for studies requiring mice lacking endogenous steroid hormone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura O'Hara
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jean Philippe York
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Pumin Zhang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lee B. Smith
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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24
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Gridley T, Groves AK. Overview of genetic tools and techniques to study Notch signaling in mice. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1187:47-61. [PMID: 25053480 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1139-4_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aberrations of Notch signaling in humans cause both congenital and acquired defects and cancers. Genetically engineered mice provide the most efficient and cost-effective models to study Notch signaling in a mammalian system. Here, we review the various types of genetic models, tools, and strategies to study Notch signaling in mice, and provide examples of their use. We also provide advice on breeding strategies for conditional mutant mice, and a protocol for tamoxifen administration to mouse strains expressing inducible Cre recombinase-estrogen receptor fusion proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Gridley
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, 81 Research Drive, Scarborough, ME, 04074, USA,
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25
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Bérubé-Simard FA, Jeannotte L. Hoxa5/Cre transgenic mice: novel tools for regional deletion along the anterior-posterior axis. Genesis 2013; 52:149-56. [PMID: 24307483 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.22733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Revised: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The Hoxa5 homeobox gene encodes a transcription factor that plays a critical role in specifying the identity of the cervico-thoracic region along the anterior-posterior embryo axis and in orchestrating organ morphogenesis. The loss of Hoxa5 function results in skeletal transformations, lethality at birth due to lung defects, and organ anomalies affecting the digestive tract, the mammary gland and the ovary. Study of Hoxa5 gene regulation has revealed the interplay of several control regions that direct Hoxa5 developmental expression. Enhancers targeting expression in the CNS, the paraxial and lateral plate mesoderm at the cervico-thoracic level, and in the mesenchymal compartment of the respiratory and digestive tracts have been identified. Using these molecular tools, we have generated two Hoxa5/Cre transgenic mouse lines carrying different combinations of Hoxa5 regulatory enhancers and allowing site-specific recombination in subsets of Hoxa5 expression sites as tested with the Rosa26/lacZ reporter mice. Further validation of the recombination efficiency of the Hoxa5/Cre transgenic lines was performed with mice carrying a Hoxa5 conditional allele. Hoxa5 deletion with the Hoxa5/Cre mouse lines recapitulates Hoxa5 mutant phenotypes, such as skeletal defects, neonatal lethality, and lung malformations. Hoxa5/Cre mouse lines provide novel genetic tools for gene function analysis in defined tissues along the anterior-posterior axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix-Antoine Bérubé-Simard
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Centre de recherche sur le cancer de l'Université Laval, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, L'Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, Québec, Canada
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26
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Retina-specific gene excision by targeted expression of Cre recombinase. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 441:777-81. [PMID: 24211578 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.10.139] [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: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The use of Cre recombinase for conditional targeting permits the controlled removal or activation of genes in specific tissues and at specific times of development. The Rho-Cre mice provide an improved tool for studying gene ablation in rod photoreceptor cells. To establish a robust expression of Rho-Cre transgenic mice that would be useful for the study of various protein functions in photoreceptor cells, a total 11,987 kb fragment (pNCHS4 Rho-NLS-cre) containing human rhodopsin promoter was cloned. The Rho-Cre plasmid was digested with EcoR1 and I Ceu-1, and the 9.316 kb fragment containing the hRho promoter and Cre recombinase gel was purified. To generate transgenic mice, the purified DNA fragment was injected into fertilized oocytes according to standard protocols. ROSA26R reported the steady expression of Rho-Cre especially in photoreceptor cells, allowing further excising proteins in rod photoreceptors across the retina. This Rho-Cre transgenic line should thus prove useful as a general deletor line for genetic analysis of diverse aspects of retinopathy.
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27
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Carofino BL, Ayanga B, Justice MJ. A mouse model for inducible overexpression of Prdm14 results in rapid-onset and highly penetrant T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Dis Model Mech 2013; 6:1494-506. [PMID: 24046360 PMCID: PMC3820272 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.012575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PRDM14 functions in embryonic stem cell (ESC) maintenance to promote the expression of pluripotency-associated genes while suppressing differentiation genes. Expression of PRDM14 is tightly regulated and typically limited to ESCs and primordial germ cells; however, aberrant expression is associated with tumor initiation in a wide variety of human cancers, including breast cancer and leukemia. Here, we describe the generation of a Cre-recombinase-inducible mouse model for the spatial and temporal control of Prdm14 misexpression [ROSA26 floxed-stop Prdm14 (R26PR)]. When R26PR is mated to either of two Cre lines, Mx1-cre or MMTV-cre, mice develop early-onset T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) with median overall survival of 41 and 64 days for R26PR;Mx1-cre and R26PR;MMTV-cre, respectively. T-ALL is characterized by the accumulation of immature single-positive CD8 cells and their widespread infiltration. Leukemia is preceded by a dramatic expansion of cells resembling hematopoietic stem cells and lymphoid-committed progenitors prior to disease onset, accompanied by a blockage in B-cell differentiation at the early pro-B stage. Rapid-onset PRDM14-induced T-ALL requires factors that are present in stem and progenitor cells: R26PR;dLck-cre animals, which express Prdm14 starting at the double-positive stage of thymocyte development, do not develop disease. PRDM14-induced leukemic cells contain high levels of activated NOTCH1 and downstream NOTCH1 targets, including MYC and HES1, and are sensitive to pharmacological inhibition of NOTCH1 with the γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT. Greater than 50% of human T-ALLs harbor activating mutations in NOTCH1; thus, our model carries clinically relevant molecular aberrations. The penetrance, short latency and involvement of the NOTCH1 pathway will make this hematopoietic R26PR mouse model ideal for future studies on disease initiation, relapse and novel therapeutic drug combinations. Furthermore, breeding R26PR to additional Cre lines will allow for the continued development of novel cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandi L. Carofino
- Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bernard Ayanga
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Monica J. Justice
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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28
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Ortiz O, Wurst W, Kühn R. Reversible and tissue-specific activation of MAP kinase signaling by tamoxifen in Braf(V637)ER(T2) mice. Genesis 2013; 51:448-55. [PMID: 23441035 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.22386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Deregulated MAP kinase (MAPK) signaling plays key roles in developmental and adult disease processes, but the experimental activation of MAPK is a currently unresolved task. For the reversible induction of MAPK signaling, we generated transgenic mice harboring a tamoxifen inducible BRAF(V637E)ER(T2) fusion protein. The expression of the inducible BRAF kinase can be directed by Cre/loxP-mediated recombination to selected cell types and enables the highly specific activation of MAPK signalling in vivo. We show that MAPK signaling can be transiently activated in the brain, liver, or kidney of Braf(V637E)ER(T2) mice by a single injection of tamoxifen. Braf(V637E)ER(T2) mice provide a new versatile tool to study disease mechanisms elicited by MAPK activation, complementing gene knockout technology that is restricted to the analysis of loss-of-function phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oskar Ortiz
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Munich, Germany
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29
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Abstract
Gene silencing by RNA interference (RNAi) has become a standard method for the characterization of gene function in mammalian cells. Short hairpin (sh) RNAs expressed from stably integrated vectors mediate gene knockdown both in cultured cells and in mice, presenting a fast alternative to gene knockout approaches. We describe three strategies to control gene silencing in mice that can be applied to any transcript of interest. This shRNA based approach enables either i) constitutive body-wide knockdown, ii) cell type-specific knockdown controlled by Cre recombinase, or iii) inducible body-wide knockdown controlled by doxycycline. For reliable expression the shRNA vector of interest is inserted into a Rosa26 docking site of ES cells by a site-specific recombinase. These ES cells can then be used to generate shRNA transgenic mice. This technology enables the production of adult knockdown mice within 11 months for an expedite in vivo validation of drug targets.
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30
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Zhang J, Zhao J, Jiang WJ, Shan XW, Yang XM, Gao JG. Conditional gene manipulation: Cre-ating a new biological era. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2012; 13:511-24. [PMID: 22761243 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1200042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
To solve the problem of embryonic lethality in conventional gene knockouts, site-specific recombinase (SSR) systems (Cre-loxP, Flp-FRT, and ΦC31) have been used for tissue-specific gene knockout. With the combination of an SSR system and inducible gene expression systems (tetracycline and tamoxifen), stage-specific knockout and transgenic expression can be achieved. The application of this "SSR+inducible" conditional tool to genomic manipulation can be extended in various ways. Alternatives to conditional gene targeting, such as conditional gene trapping, multipurpose conditional alleles, and conditional gene silencing, have been developed. SSR systems can also be used to construct precise disease models with point mutations and chromosomal abnormalities. With these exciting achievements, we are moving towards a new era in which the whole genome can be manipulated as we wish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- School of Life Science, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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31
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Abstract
Here we introduce the “Tet-Transgenic Rodents” database, documenting most of the published Tet-transgenic mouse lines generated in the past 2 decades. Aside from the >500 mouse lines listed, it also includes the first of the recently reported Tet-transgenic rat models. Since the Tet technology comprises two essential components, a cis-acting promoter (Ptet) and a trans-acting transactivator, the database has been organized accordingly. One section of the database summarizes the different transgenic mouse lines carrying mostly tissue specific promoters driving the Tet transactivator. Another section covers transgenic mouse lines carrying responder transgenes under Ptet control. The few existing rat transgenic lines are listed correspondingly. It is the purpose of this database to facilitate the repeated use of preexisting, validated transgenic lines as a shortcut for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Schönig
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim / Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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32
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Liu K, Wang H, Long Y, Ye J, Yuan L. Coordinate lentiviral expression of Cre recombinase and RFP/EGFP mediated by FMDV 2A and analysis of Cre activity. J Cell Biochem 2012; 113:2909-19. [PMID: 22532014 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The site-specific recombination mediated by Cre recombinase has been utilized extensively in genetic engineering and gene function studies. Efficient delivery of a Cre enzyme with enzymatic activity and the ability to monitor the enzyme expression are required in applications, and lentiviral constructs with a fluorescent protein (FP) to report the Cre expression are suitable for most studies. However, the current lentiviral vector systems have some deficiencies in precise reporting the Cre expression through fluorescence. To solve the problem, we generated a lentiviral system with Cre and RFP or EGFP bridged by an FMDV 2A sequence in an open reading frame expressed by a CMV promoter. We then examined the capabilities of the constructs to package with VSVG into infectious virus and to mediate expression of the Cre enzyme and fluorescent reporter. Furthermore, we monitored the bioactivities of the expressed products. We demonstrated the coordinate expression of the enzyme and the reporter. The expressed Cre was efficient at removing LoxP-flanked fragments in cells and did not show obvious cellular toxicity, and the expressed FPs allowed direct observation under fluorescent microscope. Therefore, the conjugation of CMV-Cre-2A-FP represents a significant improvement to the current lentiviral Cre delivery systems for obtaining a required Cre activity while accurately monitoring its presence. Our study also provides information concerning application of the established vector system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuancan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
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33
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Moon J, Kim S, Park H, Kang J, Park S, Koo O, da Torre BR, Saadeldin IM, Lee B, Jang G. Production of porcine cloned embryos derived from cells conditionally expressing an exogenous gene using Cre-loxP. ZYGOTE 2012; 20:423-5. [PMID: 22272567 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199411000773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
It is increasingly evident that conditional gene expression in pigs is necessary to make transgenic models. In this study, we investigated conditional expression in porcine fetal fibroblasts using Cre-loxP recombination, a system that has had limited application in large animals to date. Transformed fibroblasts were reprogrammed in enucleated oocytes to support further early embryonic development. Fetal fibroblasts from miniature pigs were used for transfection with a plasmid that contained a red fluorescent protein marker (pCALNL-DsRed) and a floxed neomycin-resistance gene. Cells were selected with 750 μg/ml neomycin for 2 weeks following transfection but did not express DsRed after visualization under a fluorescence microscope. Expression was achieved only after transient transfection with plasmid DNA that expressed the Cre recombinase enzyme. The cells that expressed DsRed were used for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). A total of 121 oocytes were used for SCNT and 76 cloned embryos (62.8%) were seen to have cleaved. Six blastocysts developed after SCNT and expressed DsRed. Deletion of the floxed neomycin-resistance gene was confirmed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in cloned blastocysts. This study demonstrated that Cre-loxP recombination can be conducted successfully in miniature pig fibroblasts and that the sequentially transformed cells can develop to the pre-implantation embryo stage via SCNT.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoonHo Moon
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine and the Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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34
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Targeted genomic integration of a selectable floxed dual fluorescence reporter in human embryonic stem cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46971. [PMID: 23071682 PMCID: PMC3468579 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of pluripotent stem cells involves transition through a series of specific cell states. To understand these cell fate decisions, the field needs improved genetic tools for the labeling, lineage tracing and selection of specific cell types from heterogeneous differentiating populations, particularly in the human embryonic stem cell (hESC) system. We used zinc finger nuclease technology to stably insert a unique, selectable, floxed dual-fluorescence reporter transgene into the AAVS1 locus of RUES2 hESCs. This "stoplight" transgene, mTmG-2a-Puro, strongly expresses membrane-localized tdTomato red fluorescent protein until Cre-dependent recombination causes a switch to expression of membrane-localized enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) and puromycin resistance. First, to validate this system in undifferentiated cells, we transduced transgenic hESCs with a lentiviral vector driving constitutive expression of Cre and observed the expected phenotypic switch. Next, to demonstrate its utility in lineage-specific selection, we transduced differentiated cultures with a lentiviral vector in which the striated muscle-specific CK7 promoter drives Cre expression. This yielded near-homogenous populations of eGFP(+) hESC-derived cardiomyocytes. The mTmg-2a-Puro hESC line described here represents a useful new tool for both in vitro fate mapping studies and the selection of useful differentiated cell types.
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35
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Managing major data of genetically modified mice: from scientific demands to legal obligations. Transgenic Res 2012; 21:959-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s11248-012-9593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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36
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Murray SA, Eppig JT, Smedley D, Simpson EM, Rosenthal N. Beyond knockouts: cre resources for conditional mutagenesis. Mamm Genome 2012; 23:587-99. [PMID: 22926223 PMCID: PMC3655717 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-012-9430-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
With the effort of the International Phenotyping Consortium to produce thousands of strains with conditional potential gathering steam, there is growing recognition that it must be supported by a rich toolbox of cre driver strains. The approaches to build cre strains have evolved in both sophistication and reliability, replacing first-generation strains with tools that can target individual cell populations with incredible precision and specificity. The modest set of cre drivers generated by individual labs over the past 15+ years is now growing rapidly, thanks to a number of large-scale projects to produce new cre strains for the community. The power of this growing resource, however, depends upon the proper deep characterization of strain function, as even the best designed strain can display a variety of undesirable features that must be considered in experimental design. This must be coupled with the parallel development of informatics tools to provide functional data to the user and facilitated access to the strains through public repositories. We discuss the current progress on all of these fronts and the challenges that remain to ensure the scientific community can capitalize on the tremendous number of mouse resources at their disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Murray
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA.
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37
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Wang P, Chen T, Sakurai K, Han BX, He Z, Feng G, Wang F. Intersectional Cre driver lines generated using split-intein mediated split-Cre reconstitution. Sci Rep 2012; 2:497. [PMID: 22773946 PMCID: PMC3390602 DOI: 10.1038/srep00497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2012] [Accepted: 06/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue and cell type highly specific Cre drivers are very rare due to the fact that most genes or promoters used to direct Cre expressions are generally expressed in more than one tissues and/or in multiple cell types. We developed a split-intein based split-Cre system for highly efficient Cre-reconstitution through protein splicing. This split-intein-split-Cre system can be used to intersect the expression patterns of two genes or promoters to restrict full-length Cre reconstitution in their overlapping domains. To test this system in vivo, we selected several conserved human enhancers to drive the expression of either Cre-N-intein-N, or intein-C-Cre-C transgene in different brain regions. In all paired CreN/CreC transgenic mice, Cre-dependent reporter was efficiently induced specifically in the intersectional expression domains of two enhancers. This split-intein based method is simpler to implement compared with other strategies for generating highly-restricted intersectional Cre drivers to study complex tissues such as the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Box 3709, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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38
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Hartwich H, Satheesh SV, Nothwang HG. A pink mouse reports the switch from red to green fluorescence upon Cre-mediated recombination. BMC Res Notes 2012; 5:296. [PMID: 22697046 PMCID: PMC3434021 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-5-296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2012] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted genetic modification in the mouse becomes increasingly important in biomedical and basic science. This goal is most often achieved by use of the Cre/loxP system and numerous Cre-driver mouse lines are currently generated. Their initial characterization requires reporter mouse lines to study the in vivo spatiotemporal activity of Cre. FINDINGS Here, we report a dual fluorescence reporter mouse line, which switches expression from the red fluorescent protein mCherry to eGFP after Cre-mediated recombination. Both fluorescent proteins are expressed from the ubiquitously active and strong CAGGS promoter. Among the founders, we noticed a pink mouse line, expressing high levels of the red fluorescent protein mCherry throughout the entire body. Presence of mCherry in the living animal as well as in almost all organs was clearly visible without optical equipment. Upon Cre-activity, mCherry expression was switched to eGFP, demonstrating functionality of this reporter mouse line. CONCLUSIONS The pink mouse presented here is an attractive novel reporter line for fluorescence-based monitoring of Cre-activity. The high expression of mCherry, which is visible to the naked eye, facilitates breeding and crossing, as no genotyping is required to identify mice carrying the reporter allele. The presence of two fluorescent proteins allows in vivo monitoring of recombined and non-recombined cells. Finally, the pink mouse is an eye-catching animal model to demonstrate the power of transgenic techniques in teaching courses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiner Hartwich
- Department of Neurogenetics, Institute of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 9-11, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Somisetty V Satheesh
- Department of Neurogenetics, Institute of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 9-11, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Hans Gerd Nothwang
- Department of Neurogenetics, Institute of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 9-11, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Carl-von-Ossietzky-Straße 9-11, 26129, Oldenburg, Germany
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39
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Lanza AM, Dyess TJ, Alper HS. Using the Cre/lox system for targeted integration into the human genome: loxFAS-loxP pairing and delayed introduction of Cre DNA improve gene swapping efficiency. Biotechnol J 2012; 7:898-908. [DOI: 10.1002/biot.201200034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2012] [Revised: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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40
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Belizário JE, Akamini P, Wolf P, Strauss B, Xavier-Neto J. New routes for transgenesis of the mouse. J Appl Genet 2012; 53:295-315. [PMID: 22569888 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-012-0096-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Revised: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Transgenesis refers to the molecular genetic techniques for directing specific insertions, deletions and point mutations in the genome of germ cells in order to create genetically modified organisms (GMO). Genetic modification is becoming more practicable, efficient and predictable with the development and use of a variety of cell and molecular biology tools and DNA sequencing technologies. A collection of plasmidial and viral vectors, cell-type specific promoters, positive and negative selectable markers, reporter genes, drug-inducible Cre-loxP and Flp/FRT recombinase systems are available which ensure efficient transgenesis in the mouse. The technologies for the insertion and removal of genes by homologous-directed recombination in embryonic stem cells (ES) and generation of targeted gain- and loss-of function alleles have allowed the creation of thousands of mouse models of a variety of diseases. The engineered zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) and small hairpin RNA-expressing constructs are novel tools with useful properties for gene knockout free of ES manipulation. In this review we briefly outline the different approaches and technologies for transgenesis as well as their advantages and disadvantages. We also present an overview on how the novel integrative mouse and human genomic databases and bioinformatics approaches have been used to understand genotype-phenotype relationships of hundreds of mutated and candidate disease genes in mouse models. The updating and continued improvements of the genomic technologies will eventually help us to unraveling the biological and pathological processes in such a way that they can be translated more efficiently from mouse to human and vise-versa.
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Affiliation(s)
- José E Belizário
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Lineu Prestes, 1524, CEP 05508-900, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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41
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Doetschman T, Georgieva T, Li H, Reed TD, Grisham C, Friel J, Estabrook MA, Gard C, Sanford LP, Azhar M. Generation of mice with a conditional allele for the transforming growth factor beta3 gene. Genesis 2012; 50:59-66. [PMID: 22223248 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.20789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2011] [Revised: 06/04/2011] [Accepted: 07/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) pathway is involved in embryonic development and several inherited and acquired human diseases. The gene for TGFβ3 (Tgfb3) encodes one of the three ligands for TGFβ receptors. It is widely expressed in the embryo and its mutation or misexpression is found in human diseases. Tgfb3-/- mice die at birth from cleft palate, precluding functional studies in adults. Here, we generated mice in which exon 6 of Tgfb3 was flanked with LoxP sites (Tgfb3flox/flox). The adult mice were normal and fertile. EIIa-Cre-mediated deletion of exon 6 in Tgfb3flox/flox mice efficiently generated Tgfb3 conditional knockout (Tgfb3cko/cko) mice which died at birth from the same cleft palate defect as Tgfb3-/- mice, indicating that the conditional and knockout alleles are functionally equivalent. This Tgfb3cko allele will now enable studies of TGFβ3 function in different cell or tissue types in embryonic development and during adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Doetschman
- BIO5 Institute, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724-5217, USA
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42
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Abstract
Large-scale projects are providing rapid global access to a wealth of mouse genetic resources to help discover disease genes and to manipulate their function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David J Adams
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Darren W Logan
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
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43
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NFATc3 regulates the transcription of genes involved in T-cell activation and angiogenesis. Blood 2011; 118:795-803. [PMID: 21642596 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2010-12-322701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) family of transcription factors plays important roles in many biologic processes, including the development and function of the immune and vascular systems. Cells usually express more than one NFAT member, raising the question of whether NFATs play overlapping roles or if each member has selective functions. Using mRNA knock-down, we show that NFATc3 is specifically required for IL2 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) gene expression in transformed and primary T cells and for T-cell proliferation. We also show that NFATc3 regulates COX2 in endothelial cells, where it is required for COX2, dependent migration and angiogenesis in vivo. These results indicate that individual NFAT members mediate specific functions through the differential regulation of the transcription of target genes. These effects, observed on short-term suppression by mRNA knock-down, are likely to have been masked by compensatory effects in gene-knockout studies.
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44
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Crouthamel MH, Kelly EJ, Ho RJY. Development and characterization of transgenic mouse models for conditional gene knockout in the blood-brain and blood-CSF barriers. Transgenic Res 2011; 21:113-30. [PMID: 21538071 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-011-9512-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2010] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
For many CNS acting drugs, penetration into the central nervous system (CNS) is limited by the blood-CNS-barriers. In an effort to quantitate the role of the protein components that make up the blood-CNS-barriers, we created transgenic mice that allow conditional gene knockout using Cre/loxP technology. We targeted the expression of Cre-recombinase to the choroid plexus (the blood-cerebral spinal fluid barrier) using the lymphotropic papovavirus control region (LPVcr) and to brain endothelium (the blood-brain-barrier) using the proximal promoter region of the human von Willebrand Factor gene (hVWF-f). We verified that LPVcr restricts expression to the choroid plexus in adult mice by using the LPVcr to drive n-LacZ expression in transgenic mice. The LPV-Cre and hVWF-Cre plasmids were then constructed and tested for Cre-recombinase function in vitro, and subsequently used to create transgenic mice. The resulting transgenic mice were characterized for cell-type specific Cre-mediated endonuclease activity by crossing them with transgenic mice containing a loxP-flanked-LacZ/EGFP dual reporter gene Z/EG. The dual Cre-Z/EG transgenic offspring were evaluated for the location of EGFP mRNA expression by reverse transcriptase PCR and for protein expression by immunohistochemistry. Immunohistochemistry for EGFP verified expression in the target cells, and no ectopic expression outside of the expected cell types. The LPV-Cre.0607 transgenic line expressed functional Cre only in the choroid plexus and hVWF-Cre.1304 line in brain endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew H Crouthamel
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Box 357610, Seattle, WA 98195-7610, USA
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45
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Freemantle SJ, Dmitrovsky E. Cyclin E transgenic mice: discovery tools for lung cancer biology, therapy, and prevention. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2011; 3:1513-8. [PMID: 21149327 DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-10-0297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States and many other countries. This fact underscores the need for clinically relevant models to increase our understanding of lung cancer biology and to help design and implement preventive and more effective therapeutic interventions for lung cancer. New murine transgenic models of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have been engineered for this purpose. In one such model, overexpression of the cell-cycle regulator cyclin E is targeted to type II alveolar lung cells; dysplasia, hyperplasia, and adenocarcinoma forming in this model have features recapitulating key features of carcinogenesis found in NSCLC patients. These features include the presence of chromosomal instability, pulmonary dysplasia, and hyperplasia, hedgehog-pathway activation, single and multiple adenocarcinomas, and even metastases. Cell lines that expressed either a human wild-type or mutant (proteasome-degradation-resistant) form of cyclin E were derived from the transgenic mouse lung cancers. These cell lines are transplantable into syngeneic host mice, which rapidly develop lung tumors and thus facilitate the rapid testing of agents targeting lung carcinogenesis. These transgenic and transplantable models have already aided in the discovery of oncogenic and growth-suppressive microRNAs and in the identification of a novel antineoplastic mechanism of action for inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinase 2. This review discusses the general utility of murine carcinogen-induced and transgenic models of lung carcinogenesis and describes the optimization of cyclin E-overexpressing lung carcinogenesis models and their use in testing candidate agents for the prevention and therapy of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Freemantle
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
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46
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Monetti C, Nishino K, Biechele S, Zhang P, Baba T, Woltjen K, Nagy A. PhiC31 integrase facilitates genetic approaches combining multiple recombinases. Methods 2011; 53:380-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2010.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2010] [Revised: 12/01/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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47
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Murray SA. Mouse resources for craniofacial research. Genesis 2011; 49:190-9. [PMID: 21309071 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.20722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2010] [Revised: 01/06/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The mouse, as a genetically defined and easily manipulated model organism, has played a critical role in unraveling the mechanisms of craniofacial development and dysmorphology. While numerous gene knockout strains that display craniofacial abnormalities and essential recombinase tool strains with craniofacial-specific expression have been generated, many are absent from public repositories. Large-scale, international resource-generating initiatives promise to address this concern, providing a comprehensive set of targeted mutations and a suite of new Cre driver strains. In addition, panels of genetically defined strains provide tools to dissect the multigenic, complex nature of craniofacial development, adding to the foundation of information gained from single gene studies. Continued progress will require awareness and access to these essential mouse resources. In this review, current mouse resources, large-scale efforts, and potential future directions will be outlined and discussed.
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48
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Kleinhammer A, Wurst W, Kühn R. Constitutive and conditional RNAi transgenesis in mice. Methods 2011; 53:430-6. [PMID: 21184828 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2010.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2010] [Revised: 11/30/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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49
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Jeannotte L, Aubin J, Bourque S, Lemieux M, Montaron S, Provencher St-Pierre A. Unsuspected effects of a lung-specific cre deleter mouse line. Genesis 2011; 49:152-9. [DOI: 10.1002/dvg.20720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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50
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Abstract
Establishment of methods to inactivate genes by homologous recombination in embryonic stem (ES) cells has provided great advantages to the field of mouse genetics. Using this technology, a number of null mutant mice, so-called knock-out mice, have been generated. The gene-targeting technology offers a strong tool that allows us to understand the function of a particular gene of interest in the whole animal and has contributed to studies in a wide variety of biological research areas. More recently, the original knock-out technology has been further refined to develop advanced strategies to generate conditional knock-out and knock-in mice. In this chapter, an overview of gene-targeting strategies is presented and procedures to generate these genetically engineered mice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne E Griep
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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