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Chang CW, Truong VA, Pham NN, Hu YC. RNA-guided genome engineering: paradigm shift towards transposons. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:970-985. [PMID: 38443218 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2024.02.006] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas systems revolutionized the genome engineering field but need to induce double-strand breaks (DSBs) and may be difficult to deliver due to their large protein size. Tn7-like transposons such as CRISPR-associated transposons (CASTs) can be repurposed for RNA-guided DSB-free integration, and obligate mobile element guided activity (OMEGA) proteins of the IS200/IS605 transposon family have been developed as hypercompact RNA-guided genome editing tools. CASTs and OMEGA are exciting, innovative genome engineering tools that can improve the precision and efficiency of editing. This review explores the recent developments and uses of CASTs and OMEGA in genome editing across prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The pros and cons of these transposon-based systems are deliberated in comparison to other CRISPR systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Wei Chang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Vy Anh Truong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Nam Ngoc Pham
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Hu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan; Frontier Research Center on Fundamental and Applied Sciences of Matters, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
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2
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Wei Y, Wang SG, Xia PF. Blue valorization of lignin-derived monomers via reprogramming marine bacterium Roseovarius nubinhibens. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0089024. [PMID: 38940564 PMCID: PMC11267941 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00890-24] [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: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological valorization of lignin, the second most abundant biopolymer on Earth, is an indispensable sector to build a circular economy and net-zero future. However, lignin is recalcitrant to bioupcycling, demanding innovative solutions. We report here the biological valorization of lignin-derived aromatic carbon to value-added chemicals without requesting extra organic carbon and freshwater via reprogramming the marine Roseobacter clade bacterium Roseovarius nubinhibens. We discovered the unusual advantages of this strain for the oxidation of lignin monomers and implemented a CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system with the lacI-Ptrc inducible module, nuclease-deactivated Cas9, and programmable gRNAs. This is the first CRISPR-based regulatory system in R. nubinhibens, enabling precise and efficient repression of genes of interest. By deploying the customized CRISPRi, we reprogrammed the carbon flux from a lignin monomer, 4-hydroxybenzoate, to achieve the maximum production of protocatechuate, a pharmaceutical compound with antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, with minimal carbon to maintain cell growth and drive biocatalysis. As a result, we achieved a 4.89-fold increase in protocatechuate yield with a dual-targeting CRISPRi system, and the system was demonstrated with real seawater. Our work underscores the power of CRISPRi in exploiting novel microbial chassis and will accelerate the development of marine synthetic biology. Meanwhile, the introduction of a new-to-the-field lineage of marine bacteria unveils the potential of blue biotechnology leveraging resources from the ocean.IMPORTANCEOne often overlooked sector in carbon-conservative biotechnology is the water resource that sustains these enabling technologies. Similar to the "food-versus-fuel" debate, the competition of freshwater between human demands and bioproduction is another controversial issue, especially under global water scarcity. Here, we bring a new-to-the-field lineage of marine bacteria with unusual advantages to the stage of engineering biology for simultaneous carbon and water conservation. We report the valorization of lignin monomers to pharmaceutical compounds without requesting extra organic substrate (e.g., glucose) or freshwater by reprogramming the marine bacterium Roseovarius nubinhibens with a multiplex CRISPR interference system. Beyond the blue lignin valorization, we present a proof-of-principle of leveraging marine bacteria and engineering biology for a sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wei
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shu-Guang Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- Sino-French Research Institute for Ecology and Environment, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- Weihai Research Institute of Industrial Technology, Shandong University, Weihai, China
| | - Peng-Fei Xia
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
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3
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Sourjik V, Patil KR. Editorial overview: Systems and synthetic biology of microbial cells and communities. Curr Opin Microbiol 2024; 80:102517. [PMID: 39029444 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2024.102517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Sourjik
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology and Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), Marburg, Germany.
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4
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Christi K, Hudson J, Egan S. Current approaches to genetic modification of marine bacteria and considerations for improved transformation efficiency. Microbiol Res 2024; 284:127729. [PMID: 38663232 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127729] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Marine bacteria play vital roles in symbiosis, biogeochemical cycles and produce novel bioactive compounds and enzymes of interest for the pharmaceutical, biofuel and biotechnology industries. At present, investigations into marine bacterial functions and their products are primarily based on phenotypic observations, -omic type approaches and heterologous gene expression. To advance our understanding of marine bacteria and harness their full potential for industry application, it is critical that we have the appropriate tools and resources to genetically manipulate them in situ. However, current genetic tools that are largely designed for model organisms such as E. coli, produce low transformation efficiencies or have no transfer ability in marine bacteria. To improve genetic manipulation applications for marine bacteria, we need to improve transformation methods such as conjugation and electroporation in addition to identifying more marine broad host range plasmids. In this review, we aim to outline the reported methods of transformation for marine bacteria and discuss the considerations for each approach in the context of improving efficiency. In addition, we further discuss marine plasmids and future research areas including CRISPR tools and their potential applications for marine bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Christi
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Jennifer Hudson
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Suhelen Egan
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia.
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5
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Burbano DA, Kiattisewee C, Karanjia AV, Cardiff RAL, Faulkner ID, Sugianto W, Carothers JM. CRISPR Tools for Engineering Prokaryotic Systems: Recent Advances and New Applications. Annu Rev Chem Biomol Eng 2024; 15:389-430. [PMID: 38598861 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-chembioeng-100522-114706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
In the past decades, the broad selection of CRISPR-Cas systems has revolutionized biotechnology by enabling multimodal genetic manipulation in diverse organisms. Rooted in a molecular engineering perspective, we recapitulate the different CRISPR components and how they can be designed for specific genetic engineering applications. We first introduce the repertoire of Cas proteins and tethered effectors used to program new biological functions through gene editing and gene regulation. We review current guide RNA (gRNA) design strategies and computational tools and how CRISPR-based genetic circuits can be constructed through regulated gRNA expression. Then, we present recent advances in CRISPR-based biosensing, bioproduction, and biotherapeutics across in vitro and in vivo prokaryotic systems. Finally, we discuss forthcoming applications in prokaryotic CRISPR technology that will transform synthetic biology principles in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Alba Burbano
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute and Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA;
| | - Cholpisit Kiattisewee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute and Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA;
| | - Ava V Karanjia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute and Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA;
| | - Ryan A L Cardiff
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute and Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA;
| | - Ian D Faulkner
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute and Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA;
| | - Widianti Sugianto
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute and Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA;
| | - James M Carothers
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute and Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA;
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6
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Kim G, Kim HJ, Kim K, Kim HJ, Yang J, Seo SW. Tunable translation-level CRISPR interference by dCas13 and engineered gRNA in bacteria. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5319. [PMID: 38909033 PMCID: PMC11193725 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49642-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Although CRISPR-dCas13, the RNA-guided RNA-binding protein, was recently exploited as a translation-level gene expression modulator, it has still been difficult to precisely control the level due to the lack of detailed characterization. Here, we develop a synthetic tunable translation-level CRISPR interference (Tl-CRISPRi) system based on the engineered guide RNAs that enable precise and predictable down-regulation of mRNA translation. First, we optimize the Tl-CRISPRi system for specific and multiplexed repression of genes at the translation level. We also show that the Tl-CRISPRi system is more suitable for independently regulating each gene in a polycistronic operon than the transcription-level CRISPRi (Tx-CRISPRi) system. We further engineer the handle structure of guide RNA for tunable and predictable repression of various genes in Escherichia coli and Vibrio natriegens. This tunable Tl-CRISPRi system is applied to increase the production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) by 14.2-fold via redirecting the metabolic flux, indicating the usefulness of this system for the flux optimization in the microbial cell factories based on the RNA-targeting machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giho Kim
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Joon Kim
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keonwoo Kim
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Jin Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jina Yang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Jeju National University, Jeju-si, South Korea
| | - Sang Woo Seo
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
- Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
- Bio-MAX Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
- Institute of Bio Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
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7
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Hackmann TJ. The vast landscape of carbohydrate fermentation in prokaryotes. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2024; 48:fuae016. [PMID: 38821505 PMCID: PMC11187502 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuae016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Fermentation is a type of metabolism carried out by organisms in environments without oxygen. Despite being studied for over 185 years, the diversity and complexity of this metabolism are just now becoming clear. Our review starts with the definition of fermentation, which has evolved over the years and which we help further refine. We then examine the range of organisms that carry out fermentation and their traits. Over one-fourth of all prokaryotes are fermentative, use more than 40 substrates, and release more than 50 metabolic end products. These insights come from studies analyzing records of thousands of organisms. Next, our review examines the complexity of fermentation at the biochemical level. We map out pathways of glucose fermentation in unprecedented detail, covering over 120 biochemical reactions. We also review recent studies coupling genomics and enzymology to reveal new pathways and enzymes. Our review concludes with practical applications for agriculture, human health, and industry. All these areas depend on fermentation and could be improved through manipulating fermentative microbes and enzymes. We discuss potential approaches for manipulation, including genetic engineering, electrofermentation, probiotics, and enzyme inhibitors. We hope our review underscores the importance of fermentation research and stimulates the next 185 years of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Hackmann
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States
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Hu WF, Yang JY, Wang JJ, Yuan SF, Yue XJ, Zhang Z, Zhang YQ, Meng JY, Li YZ. Characteristics and immune functions of the endogenous CRISPR-Cas systems in myxobacteria. mSystems 2024; 9:e0121023. [PMID: 38747603 PMCID: PMC11237760 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01210-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and their associated proteins (CRISPR-Cas) system widely occurs in prokaryotic organisms to recognize and destruct genetic invaders. Systematic collation and characterization of endogenous CRISPR-Cas systems are conducive to our understanding and potential utilization of this natural genetic machinery. In this study, we screened 39 complete and 692 incomplete genomes of myxobacteria using a combined strategy to dispose of the abridged genome information and revealed at least 19 CRISPR-Cas subtypes, which were distributed with a taxonomic difference and often lost stochastically in intraspecies strains. The cas genes in each subtype were evolutionarily clustered but deeply separated, while most of the CRISPRs were divided into four types based on the motif characteristics of repeat sequences. The spacers recorded in myxobacterial CRISPRs were in high G+C content, matching lots of phages, tiny amounts of plasmids, and, surprisingly, massive organismic genomes. We experimentally demonstrated the immune and self-target immune activities of three endogenous systems in Myxococcus xanthus DK1622 against artificial genetic invaders and revealed the microhomology-mediated end-joining mechanism for the immunity-induced DNA repair but not homology-directed repair. The panoramic view and immune activities imply potential omnipotent immune functions and applications of the endogenous CRISPR-Cas machinery. IMPORTANCE Serving as an adaptive immune system, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and their associated proteins (CRISPR-Cas) empower prokaryotes to fend off the intrusion of external genetic materials. Myxobacteria are a collective of swarming Gram-stain-negative predatory bacteria distinguished by intricate multicellular social behavior. An in-depth analysis of their intrinsic CRISPR-Cas systems is beneficial for our understanding of the survival strategies employed by host cells within their environmental niches. Moreover, the experimental findings presented in this study not only suggest the robust immune functions of CRISPR-Cas in myxobacteria but also their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Feng Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jiang-Yu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing-Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shu-Fei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xin-Jing Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ya-Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jun-Yan Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yue-Zhong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
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9
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Ishikawa M, Hori K. The elimination of two restriction enzyme genes allows for electroporation-based transformation and CRISPR-Cas9-based base editing in the non-competent Gram-negative bacterium Acinetobacter sp. Tol 5. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0040024. [PMID: 38722179 PMCID: PMC11218613 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00400-24] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Environmental isolates are promising candidates for new chassis of synthetic biology because of their inherent capabilities, which include efficiently converting a wide range of substrates into valuable products and resilience to environmental stresses; however, many remain genetically intractable and unamenable to established genetic tools tailored for model bacteria. Acinetobacter sp. Tol 5, an environmentally isolated Gram-negative bacterium, possesses intriguing properties for use in synthetic biology applications. Despite the previous development of genetic tools for the engineering of strain Tol 5, its genetic manipulation has been hindered by low transformation efficiency via electroporation, rendering the process laborious and time-consuming. This study demonstrated the genetic refinement of the Tol 5 strain, achieving efficient transformation via electroporation. We deleted two genes encoding type I and type III restriction enzymes. The resulting mutant strain not only exhibited marked efficiency of electrotransformation but also proved receptive to both in vitro and in vivo DNA assembly technologies, thereby facilitating the construction of recombinant DNA without reliance on intermediate Escherichia coli constructs. In addition, we successfully adapted a CRISPR-Cas9-based base-editing platform developed for other Acinetobacter species. Our findings provide genetic modification strategies that allow for the domestication of environmentally isolated bacteria, streamlining their utilization in synthetic biology applications.IMPORTANCERecent synthetic biology has sought diverse bacterial chassis from environmental sources to circumvent the limitations of laboratory Escherichia coli strains for industrial and environmental applications. One of the critical barriers in cell engineering of bacterial chassis is their inherent resistance to recombinant DNA, propagated either in vitro or within E. coli cells. Environmental bacteria have evolved defense mechanisms against foreign DNA as a response to the constant threat of phage infection. The ubiquity of phages in natural settings accounts for the genetic intractability of environmental isolates. The significance of our research is in demonstrating genetic modification strategies for the cell engineering of such genetically intractable bacteria. This research marks a pivotal step in the domestication of environmentally isolated bacteria, promising candidates for emerging synthetic biology chassis. Our work thus significantly contributes to advancing their applications across industrial, environmental, and biomedical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahito Ishikawa
- Department of Frontier Bioscience, Faculty of Bioscience, Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama, Shiga, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Hori
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Nagoya, Japan
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Vazquez-Uribe R, Hedin KA, Licht TR, Nieuwdorp M, Sommer MOA. Advanced microbiome therapeutics as a novel modality for oral delivery of peptides to manage metabolic diseases. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024:S1043-2760(24)00115-2. [PMID: 38782649 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2024.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The rising prevalence of metabolic diseases calls for innovative treatments. Peptide-based drugs have transformed the management of conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Yet, challenges persist in oral delivery of these peptides. This review explores the potential of 'advanced microbiome therapeutics' (AMTs), which involve engineered microbes for delivery of peptides in situ, thereby enhancing their bioavailability. Preclinical work on AMTs has shown promise in treating animal models of metabolic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Outstanding challenges toward realizing the potential of AMTs involve improving peptide expression, ensuring predictable colonization control, enhancing stability, and managing safety and biocontainment concerns. Still, AMTs have potential for revolutionizing the treatment of metabolic diseases, potentially offering dynamic and personalized novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Vazquez-Uribe
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Karl Alex Hedin
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Tine Rask Licht
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Max Nieuwdorp
- Departments of Internal and Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Morten O A Sommer
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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11
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Orsi E, Schada von Borzyskowski L, Noack S, Nikel PI, Lindner SN. Automated in vivo enzyme engineering accelerates biocatalyst optimization. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3447. [PMID: 38658554 PMCID: PMC11043082 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46574-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Achieving cost-competitive bio-based processes requires development of stable and selective biocatalysts. Their realization through in vitro enzyme characterization and engineering is mostly low throughput and labor-intensive. Therefore, strategies for increasing throughput while diminishing manual labor are gaining momentum, such as in vivo screening and evolution campaigns. Computational tools like machine learning further support enzyme engineering efforts by widening the explorable design space. Here, we propose an integrated solution to enzyme engineering challenges whereby ML-guided, automated workflows (including library generation, implementation of hypermutation systems, adapted laboratory evolution, and in vivo growth-coupled selection) could be realized to accelerate pipelines towards superior biocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Orsi
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Stephan Noack
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Pablo I Nikel
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Steffen N Lindner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany.
- Department of Biochemistry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
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12
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Krink N, Nikel PI, Beisel CL. A Hitchhiker's guide to CRISPR editing tools in bacteria : CRISPR can help unlock the bacterial world, but technical and regulatory barriers persist. EMBO Rep 2024; 25:1694-1699. [PMID: 38347223 PMCID: PMC11014848 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-024-00086-w] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Join us on a journey through the complex and ever-expanding universe of CRISPR approaches for genome editing in bacteria. Discover what is available, current technical challenges, successful implementation of these tools and the regulatory framework around their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Krink
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Pablo Iván Nikel
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080, Würzburg, Germany.
- Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, 97080, Würzburg, Germany.
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13
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De Marchi D, Shaposhnikov R, Gobaa S, Pastorelli D, Batt G, Magni P, Pasotti L. Design and Model-Driven Analysis of Synthetic Circuits with the Staphylococcus aureus Dead-Cas9 (sadCas9) as a Programmable Transcriptional Regulator in Bacteria. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:763-780. [PMID: 38374729 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic circuit design is crucial for engineering microbes that process environmental cues and provide biologically relevant outputs. To reliably scale-up circuit complexity, the availability of parts toolkits is central. Streptococcus pyogenes (sp)-derived CRISPR interference/dead-Cas9 (CRISPRi/spdCas9) is widely adopted for implementing programmable regulations in synthetic circuits, and alternative CRISPRi systems will further expand our toolkits of orthogonal components. Here, we showcase the potential of CRISPRi using the engineered dCas9 from Staphylococcus aureus (sadCas9), not previously used in bacterial circuits, that is attractive for its low size and high specificity. We designed a collection of ∼20 increasingly complex circuits and variants in Escherichia coli, including circuits with static function like one-/two-input logic gates (NOT, NAND), circuits with dynamic behavior like incoherent feedforward loops (iFFLs), and applied sadCas9 to fix a T7 polymerase-based cascade. Data demonstrated specific and efficient target repression (100-fold) and qualitatively successful functioning for all circuits. Other advantageous features included low sadCas9-borne cell load and orthogonality with spdCas9. However, different circuit variants showed quantitatively unexpected and previously unreported steady-state responses: the dynamic range, switch point, and slope of NOT/NAND gates changed for different output promoters, and a multiphasic behavior was observed in iFFLs, differing from the expected bell-shaped or sigmoidal curves. Model analysis explained the observed curves by complex interplays among components, due to reporter gene-borne cell load and regulator competition. Overall, CRISPRi/sadCas9 successfully expanded the available toolkit for bacterial engineering. Analysis of our circuit collection depicted the impact of generally neglected effects modulating the shape of component dose-response curves, to avoid drawing wrong conclusions on circuit functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide De Marchi
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Roman Shaposhnikov
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Samy Gobaa
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, 28 Rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Daniele Pastorelli
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gregory Batt
- Institut Pasteur, Inria, Université Paris Cité, 28 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Paolo Magni
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Pasotti
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Institut Pasteur, Inria, Université Paris Cité, 28 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
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14
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Hu Q, Sun S, Zhang Z, Liu W, Yi X, He H, Scrutton NS, Chen GQ. Ectoine hyperproduction by engineered Halomonas bluephagenesis. Metab Eng 2024; 82:238-249. [PMID: 38401747 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2024.02.010] [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: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Ectoine, a crucial osmoprotectant for salt adaptation in halophiles, has gained growing interest in cosmetics and medical industries. However, its production remains challenged by stringent fermentation process in model microorganisms and low production level in its native producers. Here, we systematically engineered the native ectoine producer Halomonas bluephagenesis for ectoine production by overexpressing ectABC operon, increasing precursors availability, enhancing product transport system and optimizing its growth medium. The final engineered H. bluephagenesis produced 85 g/L ectoine in 52 h under open unsterile incubation in a 7 L bioreactor in the absence of plasmid, antibiotic or inducer. Furthermore, it was successfully demonstrated the feasibility of decoupling salt concentration with ectoine synthesis and co-production with bioplastic P(3HB-co-4HB) by the engineered H. bluephagenesis. The unsterile fermentation process and significantly increased ectoine titer indicate that H. bluephagenesis as the chassis of Next-Generation Industrial Biotechnology (NGIB), is promising for the biomanufacturing of not only intracellular bioplastic PHA but also small molecular compound such as ectoine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qitiao Hu
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Simian Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhongnan Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Wei Liu
- PhaBuilder Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Shunyi District, Beijing 101309, China
| | - Xueqing Yi
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Hongtao He
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Nigel S Scrutton
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK
| | - Guo-Qiang Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, UK; Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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15
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Kozaeva E, Nielsen ZS, Nieto-Domínguez M, Nikel P. The pAblo·pCasso self-curing vector toolset for unconstrained cytidine and adenine base-editing in Gram-negative bacteria. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:e19. [PMID: 38180826 PMCID: PMC10899774 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1236] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
A synthetic biology toolkit, exploiting clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and modified CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) base-editors, was developed for genome engineering in Gram-negative bacteria. Both a cytidine base-editor (CBE) and an adenine base-editor (ABE) have been optimized for precise single-nucleotide modification of plasmid and genome targets. CBE comprises a cytidine deaminase conjugated to a Cas9 nickase from Streptococcus pyogenes (SpnCas9), resulting in C→T (or G→A) substitutions. Conversely, ABE consists of an adenine deaminase fused to SpnCas9 for A→G (or T→C) editing. Several nucleotide substitutions were achieved using these plasmid-borne base-editing systems and a novel protospacer adjacent motif (PAM)-relaxed SpnCas9 (SpRY) variant. Base-editing was validated in Pseudomonas putida and other Gram-negative bacteria by inserting premature STOP codons into target genes, thereby inactivating both fluorescent proteins and metabolic (antibiotic-resistance) functions. The functional knockouts obtained by engineering STOP codons via CBE were reverted to the wild-type genotype using ABE. Additionally, a series of induction-responsive vectors was developed to facilitate the curing of the base-editing platform in a single cultivation step, simplifying complex strain engineering programs without relying on homologous recombination and yielding plasmid-free, modified bacterial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Kozaeva
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Zacharias S Nielsen
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Manuel Nieto-Domínguez
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Pablo I Nikel
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
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16
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Mishra A, Pandey VP. CRISPR/Cas system: A revolutionary tool for crop improvement. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2300298. [PMID: 38403466 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300298] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
World's population is elevating at an alarming rate thus, the rising demands of producing crops with better adaptability to biotic and abiotic stresses, superior nutritional as well as morphological qualities, and generation of high-yielding varieties have led to encourage the development of new plant breeding technologies. The availability and easy accessibility of genome sequences for a number of crop plants as well as the development of various genome editing technologies such as zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) has opened up possibilities to develop new varieties of crop plants with superior desirable traits. However, these approaches has limitation of being more expensive as well as having complex steps and time-consuming. The CRISPR/Cas genome editing system has been intensively studied for allowing versatile target-specific modifications of crop genome that fruitfully aid in the generation of novel varieties. It is an advanced and promising technology with the potential to meet hunger needs and contribute to food production for the ever-growing human population. This review summarizes the usage of novel CRISPR/Cas genome editing tool for targeted crop improvement in stress resistance, yield, quality and nutritional traits in the desired crop plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Mishra
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, India
| | - Veda P Pandey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, India
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17
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Bales MK, Vergara MM, Eckert CA. Application of functional genomics for domestication of novel non-model microbes. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 51:kuae022. [PMID: 38925657 PMCID: PMC11247347 DOI: 10.1093/jimb/kuae022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
With the expansion of domesticated microbes producing biomaterials and chemicals to support a growing circular bioeconomy, the variety of waste and sustainable substrates that can support microbial growth and production will also continue to expand. The diversity of these microbes also requires a range of compatible genetic tools to engineer improved robustness and economic viability. As we still do not fully understand the function of many genes in even highly studied model microbes, engineering improved microbial performance requires introducing genome-scale genetic modifications followed by screening or selecting mutants that enhance growth under prohibitive conditions encountered during production. These approaches include adaptive laboratory evolution, random or directed mutagenesis, transposon-mediated gene disruption, or CRISPR interference (CRISPRi). Although any of these approaches may be applicable for identifying engineering targets, here we focus on using CRISPRi to reduce the time required to engineer more robust microbes for industrial applications. ONE-SENTENCE SUMMARY The development of genome scale CRISPR-based libraries in new microbes enables discovery of genetic factors linked to desired traits for engineering more robust microbial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret K Bales
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
- Bredesen Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
- Center for Bioenergy Innovation, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | - Michael Melesse Vergara
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
- Center for Bioenergy Innovation, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | - Carrie A Eckert
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
- Bredesen Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
- Center for Bioenergy Innovation, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
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18
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Aminian-Dehkordi J, Rahimi S, Golzar-Ahmadi M, Singh A, Lopez J, Ledesma-Amaro R, Mijakovic I. Synthetic biology tools for environmental protection. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 68:108239. [PMID: 37619824 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108239] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology transforms the way we perceive biological systems. Emerging technologies in this field affect many disciplines of science and engineering. Traditionally, synthetic biology approaches were commonly aimed at developing cost-effective microbial cell factories to produce chemicals from renewable sources. Based on this, the immediate beneficial impact of synthetic biology on the environment came from reducing our oil dependency. However, synthetic biology is starting to play a more direct role in environmental protection. Toxic chemicals released by industries and agriculture endanger the environment, disrupting ecosystem balance and biodiversity loss. This review highlights synthetic biology approaches that can help environmental protection by providing remediation systems capable of sensing and responding to specific pollutants. Remediation strategies based on genetically engineered microbes and plants are discussed. Further, an overview of computational approaches that facilitate the design and application of synthetic biology tools in environmental protection is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shadi Rahimi
- Department of Life Sciences, Chalmers University of Technology, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Mehdi Golzar-Ahmadi
- Norman B. Keevil Institute of Mining Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Amritpal Singh
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW72AZ, UK
| | - Javiera Lopez
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW72AZ, UK
| | | | - Ivan Mijakovic
- Department of Life Sciences, Chalmers University of Technology, Göteborg, Sweden; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark.
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19
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Orsi E, Nikel PI, Nielsen LK, Donati S. Synergistic investigation of natural and synthetic C1-trophic microorganisms to foster a circular carbon economy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6673. [PMID: 37865689 PMCID: PMC10590403 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42166-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
A true circular carbon economy must upgrade waste greenhouse gases. C1-based biomanufacturing is an attractive solution, in which one carbon (C1) molecules (e.g. CO2, formate, methanol, etc.) are converted by microbial cell factories into value-added goods (i.e. food, feed, and chemicals). To render C1-based biomanufacturing cost-competitive, we must adapt microbial metabolism to perform chemical conversions at high rates and yields. To this end, the biotechnology community has undertaken two (seemingly opposing) paths: optimizing natural C1-trophic microorganisms versus engineering synthetic C1-assimilation de novo in model microorganisms. Here, we pose how these approaches can instead create synergies for strengthening the competitiveness of C1-based biomanufacturing as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Orsi
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Pablo Ivan Nikel
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lars Keld Nielsen
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland, 4072, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Stefano Donati
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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20
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Gawlitt S, Liao C, Achmedov T, Beisel CL. Shortened CRISPR-Cas9 arrays enable multiplexed gene targeting in bacteria from a smaller DNA footprint. RNA Biol 2023; 20:666-680. [PMID: 37654098 PMCID: PMC10478742 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2023.2247247] [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] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR technologies comprising a Cas nuclease and a guide RNA (gRNA) can utilize multiple gRNAs to enact multi-site editing or regulation in the same cell. Nature devised a highly compact means of encoding gRNAs in the form of CRISPR arrays composed of conserved repeats separated by targeting spacers. However, the capacity to acquire new spacers keeps the arrays longer than necessary for CRISPR technologies. Here, we show that CRISPR arrays utilized by the Cas9 nuclease can be shortened without compromising and sometimes even enhancing targeting activity. Using multiplexed gene repression in E. coli, we found that each region could be systematically shortened to varying degrees before severely compromising targeting activity. Surprisingly, shortening some spacers yielded enhanced targeting activity, which was linked to folding of the transcribed array prior to processing. Overall, shortened CRISPR-Cas9 arrays can facilitate multiplexed editing and gene regulation from a smaller DNA footprint across many bacterial applications of CRISPR technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Gawlitt
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Chunyu Liao
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tatjana Achmedov
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Chase L. Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
- Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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