1
|
Moeckel C, Mouratidis I, Chantzi N, Uzun Y, Georgakopoulos-Soares I. Advances in computational and experimental approaches for deciphering transcriptional regulatory networks: Understanding the roles of cis-regulatory elements is essential, and recent research utilizing MPRAs, STARR-seq, CRISPR-Cas9, and machine learning has yielded valuable insights. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300210. [PMID: 38715516 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the influence of cis-regulatory elements on gene regulation poses numerous challenges given complexities stemming from variations in transcription factor (TF) binding, chromatin accessibility, structural constraints, and cell-type differences. This review discusses the role of gene regulatory networks in enhancing understanding of transcriptional regulation and covers construction methods ranging from expression-based approaches to supervised machine learning. Additionally, key experimental methods, including MPRAs and CRISPR-Cas9-based screening, which have significantly contributed to understanding TF binding preferences and cis-regulatory element functions, are explored. Lastly, the potential of machine learning and artificial intelligence to unravel cis-regulatory logic is analyzed. These computational advances have far-reaching implications for precision medicine, therapeutic target discovery, and the study of genetic variations in health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Moeckel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Personalized Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ioannis Mouratidis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Personalized Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nikol Chantzi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Personalized Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yasin Uzun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Personalized Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ilias Georgakopoulos-Soares
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Personalized Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang C, Tang Y, Tang S, Chen L, Li T, Yuan H, Xu Y, Zhou Y, Zhang S, Wang J, Wen H, Jiang W, Pang Y, Deng X, Cao X, Zhou J, Song X, Liu Q. An inducible CRISPR activation tool for accelerating plant regeneration. PLANT COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 5:100823. [PMID: 38243597 PMCID: PMC11121170 DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2024.100823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The inducible CRISPR activation (CRISPR-a) system offers unparalleled precision and versatility for regulating endogenous genes, making it highly sought after in plant research. In this study, we developed a chemically inducible CRISPR-a tool for plants called ER-Tag by combining the LexA-VP16-ER inducible system with the SunTag CRISPR-a system. We systematically compared different induction strategies and achieved high efficiency in target gene activation. We demonstrated that guide RNAs can be multiplexed and pooled for large-scale screening of effective morphogenic genes and gene pairs involved in plant regeneration. Further experiments showed that induced activation of these morphogenic genes can accelerate regeneration and improve regeneration efficiency in both eudicot and monocot plants, including alfalfa, woodland strawberry, and sheepgrass. Our study expands the CRISPR toolset in plants and provides a powerful new strategy for studying gene function when constitutive expression is not feasible or ideal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cuimei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Gene Research, School of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yajun Tang
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Shandong 261000, China
| | - Shanjie Tang
- National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lei Chen
- National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tong Li
- National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Haidi Yuan
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Shandong 261000, China
| | - Yujun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Gene Research, School of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yangyan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Gene Research, School of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Shuaibin Zhang
- National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jianli Wang
- Grass and Science Institute of Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Heilongjiang 150086, China
| | - Hongyu Wen
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wenbo Jiang
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yongzhen Pang
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xian Deng
- Key Laboratory of Seed Innovation and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaofeng Cao
- National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Junhui Zhou
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Shandong 261000, China.
| | - Xianwei Song
- Key Laboratory of Seed Innovation and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Qikun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Gene Research, School of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gong M, Yuan Y, Dai Z, Lv X, Su J, Huo D, Niu L, Chen X, Wu X. PRC2 primes bivalent genes for transcription induction independent of histone methyltransferase activity. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2573-2. [PMID: 38739173 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2573-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Meihan Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Ye Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Zhongye Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xuejiao Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Jiacheng Su
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Dawei Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Liangzhu Laboratory, Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 311113, China
| | - Lin Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xudong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chardon FM, McDiarmid TA, Page NF, Daza RM, Martin B, Domcke S, Regalado SG, Lalanne JB, Calderon D, Li X, Starita LM, Sanders SJ, Ahituv N, Shendure J. Multiplex, single-cell CRISPRa screening for cell type specific regulatory elements. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.03.28.534017. [PMID: 37034704 PMCID: PMC10081248 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.28.534017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-based gene activation (CRISPRa) is a promising therapeutic approach for gene therapy, upregulating gene expression by targeting promoters or enhancers in a tissue/cell-type specific manner. Here, we describe an experimental framework that combines highly multiplexed perturbations with single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNA-seq) to identify cell-type-specific, CRISPRa-responsive cis- regulatory elements and the gene(s) they regulate. Random combinations of many gRNAs are introduced to each of many cells, which are then profiled and partitioned into test and control groups to test for effect(s) of CRISPRa perturbations of both enhancers and promoters on the expression of neighboring genes. Applying this method to a library of 493 gRNAs targeting candidate cis- regulatory elements in both K562 cells and iPSC-derived excitatory neurons, we identify gRNAs capable of specifically upregulating intended target genes and no other neighboring genes within 1 Mb, including gRNAs yielding upregulation of six autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) risk genes in neurons. A consistent pattern is that the responsiveness of individual enhancers to CRISPRa is restricted by cell type, implying a dependency on either chromatin landscape and/or additional trans- acting factors for successful gene activation. The approach outlined here may facilitate large-scale screens for gRNAs that activate therapeutically relevant genes in a cell type-specific manner.
Collapse
|
5
|
Cao L, Han R, Zhao Y, Qin X, Li Q, Xiong H, Kong Y, Liu Z, Li Z, Dong F, Li T, Zhao X, Lei L, Zhao Q, Liu D, Wang B, Wu X. A LATS2 and ALKBH5 positive feedback loop supports their oncogenic roles. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114032. [PMID: 38568805 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
N(6)-methyladenosine (m6A) critically regulates RNA dynamics in various biological processes. The m6A demethylase ALKBH5 promotes tumorigenesis of glioblastoma, while the intricate web that orchestrates its regulation remains enigmatic. Here, we discover that cell density affects ALKBH5 subcellular localization and m6A dynamics. Mechanistically, ALKBH5 is phosphorylated by the large tumor suppressor kinase 2 (LATS2), preventing its nuclear export and enhancing protein stability. Furthermore, phosphorylated ALKBH5 reciprocally erases m6A from LATS2 mRNA, thereby stabilizing this transcript. Unexpectedly, LATS2 depletion suppresses glioblastoma stem cell self-renewal independent of yes-associated protein activation. Additionally, deficiency in either LATS2 or ALKBH5 phosphorylation impedes tumor progression in mouse xenograft models. Moreover, high levels of LATS2 expression and ALKBH5 phosphorylation are associated with tumor malignancy in patients with gliomas. Collectively, our study unveils an oncogenic positive feedback loop between LATS2 and ALKBH5, revealing a non-canonical branch of the Hippo pathway for RNA processing and suggesting potential anti-cancer interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Ruohui Han
- Department of Endodontics and Laboratory of Stem Cells Endocrine Immunology, Tianjin Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Yingying Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xiaoyang Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Qian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Hui Xiong
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Yu Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Ziyi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Zexing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China; School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Feng Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Ting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xiujuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Lei Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Dayong Liu
- Department of Endodontics and Laboratory of Stem Cells Endocrine Immunology, Tianjin Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Baofeng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xudong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, the Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiangtai Road 22, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Maizels RJ. A dynamical perspective: moving towards mechanism in single-cell transcriptomics. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230049. [PMID: 38432314 PMCID: PMC10909508 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
As the field of single-cell transcriptomics matures, research is shifting focus from phenomenological descriptions of cellular phenotypes to a mechanistic understanding of the gene regulation underneath. This perspective considers the value of capturing dynamical information at single-cell resolution for gaining mechanistic insight; reviews the available technologies for recording and inferring temporal information in single cells; and explores whether better dynamical resolution is sufficient to adequately capture the causal relationships driving complex biological systems. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Causes and consequences of stochastic processes in development and disease'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rory J. Maizels
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Negrón-Piñeiro LJ, Wu Y, Popsuj S, José-Edwards DS, Stolfi A, Di Gregorio A. Cis-regulatory interfaces reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying the notochord gene regulatory network of Ciona. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3025. [PMID: 38589372 PMCID: PMC11001920 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46850-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Tissue-specific gene expression is fundamental in development and evolution, and is mediated by transcription factors and by the cis-regulatory regions (enhancers) that they control. Transcription factors and their respective tissue-specific enhancers are essential components of gene regulatory networks responsible for the development of tissues and organs. Although numerous transcription factors have been characterized from different organisms, the knowledge of the enhancers responsible for their tissue-specific expression remains fragmentary. Here we use Ciona to study the enhancers associated with ten transcription factors expressed in the notochord, an evolutionary hallmark of the chordate phylum. Our results illustrate how two evolutionarily conserved transcription factors, Brachyury and Foxa2, coordinate the deployment of other notochord transcription factors. The results of these detailed cis-regulatory analyses delineate a high-resolution view of the essential notochord gene regulatory network of Ciona, and provide a reference for studies of transcription factors, enhancers, and their roles in development, disease, and evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lenny J Negrón-Piñeiro
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Yushi Wu
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Sydney Popsuj
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Diana S José-Edwards
- Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Program, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Alberto Stolfi
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Anna Di Gregorio
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY, 10010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen S, Lei Y, Yang Y, Liu C, Kuang L, Jin L, Finnell RH, Yang X, Wang H. A mutation in TBXT causes congenital vertebral malformations in humans and mice. J Genet Genomics 2024; 51:433-442. [PMID: 37751845 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
T-box transcription factor T (TBXT; T) is required for mesodermal formation and axial skeletal development. Although it has been extensively studied in various model organisms, human congenital vertebral malformations (CVMs) involving T are not well established. Here, we report a family with 15 CVM patients distributed across 4 generations. All affected individuals carry a heterozygous mutation, T c.596A>G (p.Q199R), which is not found in unaffected family members, indicating co-segregation of the genotype and phenotype. In vitro assays show that T p.Q199R increases the nucleocytoplasmic ratio and enhances its DNA-binding affinity, but reduces its transcriptional activity compared to the wild-type. To determine the pathogenicity of this mutation in vivo, we generated a Q199R knock-in mouse model that recapitulates the human CVM phenotype. Most heterozygous Q199R mice show subtle kinked or shortened tails, while homozygous mice exhibit tail filaments and severe vertebral deformities. Overall, we show that the Q199R mutation in T causes CVM in humans and mice, providing previously unreported evidence supporting the function of T in the genetic etiology of human CVM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuxia Chen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering at School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yunping Lei
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yajun Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Chennan Liu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering at School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Lele Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Li Jin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Richard H Finnell
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xueyan Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering at School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of NPFPC, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Children's Hospital, Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai 201102, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tong B, Sun Y. Activation of Young LINE-1 Elements by CRISPRa. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:424. [PMID: 38203595 PMCID: PMC10778729 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1; L1s) are mobile genetic elements that comprise nearly 20% of the human genome. L1s have been shown to have important functions in various biological processes, and their dysfunction is thought to be linked with diseases and cancers. However, the roles of the repetitive elements are largely not understood. While the CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) system based on catalytically deadCas9 (dCas9) is widely used for genome-wide interrogation of gene function and genetic interaction, few studies have been conducted on L1s. Here, we report using the CRISPRa method to efficiently activate L1s in human L02 cells, a derivative of the HeLa cancer cell line. After CRISPRa, the young L1 subfamilies such as L1HS/L1PA1 and L1PA2 are found to be expressed at higher levels than the older L1s. The L1s with high levels of transcription are closer to full-length and are more densely occupied by the YY1 transcription factor. The activated L1s can either be mis-spliced to form chimeric transcripts or act as alternative promoters or enhancers to facilitate the expression of neighboring genes. The method described here can be used for studying the functional roles of young L1s in cultured cells of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bei Tong
- Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yuhua Sun
- Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- The Innovation of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Han JH, Lee HJ, Kim TH. Characterization of transcriptional enhancers in the chicken genome using CRISPR-mediated activation. Front Genome Ed 2023; 5:1269115. [PMID: 37953873 PMCID: PMC10634339 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2023.1269115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA regulatory elements intricately control when, where, and how genes are activated. Therefore, understanding the function of these elements could unveil the complexity of the genetic regulation network. Genome-wide significant variants are predominantly found in non-coding regions of DNA, so comprehending the predicted functional regulatory elements is crucial for understanding the biological context of these genomic markers, which can be incorporated into breeding programs. The emergence of CRISPR technology has provided a powerful tool for studying non-coding regulatory elements in genomes. In this study, we leveraged epigenetic data from the Functional Annotation of Animal Genomes project to identify promoter and putative enhancer regions associated with three genes (HBBA, IRF7, and PPARG) in the chicken genome. To identify the enhancer regions, we designed guide RNAs targeting the promoter and candidate enhancer regions and utilized CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) with dCas9-p300 and dCas9-VPR as transcriptional activators in chicken DF-1 cells. By comparing the expression levels of target genes between the promoter activation and the co-activation of the promoter and putative enhancers, we were able to identify functional enhancers that exhibited augmented upregulation. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the remarkable efficiency of CRISPRa in precisely manipulating the expression of endogenous genes by targeting regulatory elements in the chicken genome, highlighting its potential for functional validation of non-coding regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Hoon Han
- Department of Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Hong Jo Lee
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Tae Hyun Kim
- Department of Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li R, Huang D, Zhao Y, Yuan Y, Sun X, Dai Z, Huo D, Liu X, Helin K, Li MJ, Wu X. PR-DUB safeguards Polycomb repression through H2AK119ub1 restriction. Cell Prolif 2023; 56:e13457. [PMID: 36959757 PMCID: PMC10542648 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are critical chromatin regulators for cell fate control. The mono-ubiquitylation on histone H2AK119 (H2AK119ub1) is one of the well-recognized mechanisms for Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1)-mediated transcription repression. Unexpectedly, the specific H2AK119 deubiquitylation complex composed by additional sex comb-like proteins and BAP1 has also been genetically characterized as Polycomb repressive deubiquitnase (PR-DUB) for unclear reasons. However, it remains a mystery whether and how PR-DUB deficiency affects chromatin states and cell fates through impaired PcG silencing. Here through a careful epigenomic analysis, we demonstrate that a bulk of H2AK119ub1 is diffusely distributed away from promoter regions and their enrichment is positively correlated with PRC1 occupancy. Upon deletion of Asxl2 in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), a pervasive gain of H2AK119ub1 is coincident with increased PRC1 sampling at chromatin. Accordingly, PRC1 is significantly lost from a subset of highly occupied promoters, leading to impaired silencing of associated genes before and after lineage differentiation of Asxl2-null ESCs. Therefore, our study highlights the importance of genome-wide H2AK119ub1 restriction by PR-DUB in safeguarding robust PRC1 deposition and its roles in developmental regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
| | - Dandan Huang
- Wuxi School of MedicineJiangnan UniversityWuxi214000China
| | - Yingying Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
| | - Ye Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
| | - Xiaoyu Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
| | - Zhongye Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
| | - Dawei Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
| | - Xiaozhi Liu
- Pediatric Center, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Epigenetics for Organ Development of Premature InfantsThe Fifth Central Hospital of TianjinTianjin300450China
| | - Kristian Helin
- Biotech Research and Innovation CentreUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR)LondonUK
| | - Mulin Jun Li
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and HospitalTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
| | - Xudong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical SciencesTianjin Medical UniversityTianjin300070China
- Department of OrthopedicsTianjin Medical University General HospitalTianjin300052China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Stankey CT, Lee JC. Translating non-coding genetic associations into a better understanding of immune-mediated disease. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:297044. [PMID: 36897113 PMCID: PMC10040244 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have identified hundreds of genetic loci that are associated with immune-mediated diseases. Most disease-associated variants are non-coding, and a large proportion of these variants lie within enhancers. As a result, there is a pressing need to understand how common genetic variation might affect enhancer function and thereby contribute to immune-mediated (and other) diseases. In this Review, we first describe statistical and experimental methods to identify causal genetic variants that modulate gene expression, including statistical fine-mapping and massively parallel reporter assays. We then discuss approaches to characterise the mechanisms by which these variants modulate immune function, such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based screens. We highlight examples of studies that, by elucidating the effects of disease variants within enhancers, have provided important insights into immune function and uncovered key pathways of disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina T Stankey
- Genetic Mechanisms of Disease Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - James C Lee
- Genetic Mechanisms of Disease Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Hospital, University College London, London NW3 2PF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lv X, Li Q, Liu H, Gong M, Zhao Y, Hu J, Wu F, Wu X. JUN
activation modulates chromatin accessibility to drive
TNFα
‐induced mesenchymal transition in glioblastoma. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:4602-4612. [PMID: 35851726 PMCID: PMC9357637 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromatin dynamics as well as genetic evolution underlies the adaptability of tumour cells to environmental cues. Three subtypes of tumour cells have been identified in glioblastoma, one of the commonest malignant brain tumours in adults. During tumour progression or under therapeutic pressure, the non‐mesenchymal subtypes may progress to the mesenchymal subtype, leading to unfavourable prognosis. However, the molecular mechanisms for this transition remain poorly understood. Here taking a TNFα‐induced cellular model, we profile the chromatin accessibility dynamics during mesenchymal transition. Moreover, we identify the JUN family as one of the key driving transcription factors for the gained chromatin accessibility. Accordingly, inhibition of JUN phosphorylation and therefore its transcription activity successfully impedes TNFα‐induced chromatin remodelling and mesenchymal transition. In line with these findings based on experimental models, JUN activity is positively correlated with mesenchymal features in clinical glioblastoma specimens. Together, this study unveils a deregulated transcription regulatory network in glioblastoma progression and hopefully provides a rationale for anti‐glioblastoma therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology Tianjin Medical University Tianjin China
| | - Qian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology Tianjin Medical University Tianjin China
| | - Hang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology Tianjin Medical University Tianjin China
| | - Meihan Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology Tianjin Medical University Tianjin China
| | - Yingying Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology Tianjin Medical University Tianjin China
| | - Jinyang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Fan Wu
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Xudong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, The Province and Ministry Co‐sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Cell Biology Tianjin Medical University Tianjin China
- Department of Neurosurgery Tianjin Medical University General Hospital Tianjin China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Danziger O, Patel RS, DeGrace EJ, Rosen MR, Rosenberg BR. Inducible CRISPR activation screen for interferon-stimulated genes identifies OAS1 as a SARS-CoV-2 restriction factor. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010464. [PMID: 35421191 PMCID: PMC9041830 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Interferons establish an antiviral state through the induction of hundreds of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). The mechanisms and viral specificities for most ISGs remain incompletely understood. To enable high-throughput interrogation of ISG antiviral functions in pooled genetic screens while mitigating potentially confounding effects of endogenous interferon and antiproliferative/proapoptotic ISG activities, we adapted a CRISPR-activation (CRISPRa) system for inducible ISG expression in isogenic cell lines with and without the capacity to respond to interferons. We used this platform to screen for ISGs that restrict SARS-CoV-2. Results included ISGs previously described to restrict SARS-CoV-2 and novel candidate antiviral factors. We validated a subset of these by complementary CRISPRa and cDNA expression experiments. OAS1, a top-ranked hit across multiple screens, exhibited strong antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2, which required OAS1 catalytic activity. These studies demonstrate a high-throughput approach to assess antiviral functions within the ISG repertoire, exemplified by identification of multiple SARS-CoV-2 restriction factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oded Danziger
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Roosheel S. Patel
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Emma J. DeGrace
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Mikaela R. Rosen
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Brad R. Rosenberg
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|