1
|
Timalsina B, Lee S, Kaang BK. Advances in the labelling and selective manipulation of synapses. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:668-687. [PMID: 39174832 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-024-00851-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Synapses are highly specialized neuronal structures that are essential for neurotransmission, and they are dynamically regulated throughout the lifetime. Although accumulating evidence indicates that these structures are crucial for information processing and storage in the brain, their precise roles beyond neurotransmission are yet to be fully appreciated. Genetically encoded fluorescent tools have deepened our understanding of synaptic structure and function, but developing an ideal methodology to selectively visualize, label and manipulate synapses remains challenging. Here, we provide an overview of currently available synapse labelling techniques and describe their extension to enable synapse manipulation. We categorize these approaches on the basis of their conceptual bases and target molecules, compare their advantages and limitations and propose potential modifications to improve their effectiveness. These methods have broad utility, particularly for investigating mechanisms of synaptic function and synaptopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Binod Timalsina
- Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Sangkyu Lee
- Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Bong-Kiun Kaang
- Center for Cognition and Sociality, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bindu DS, Savage JT, Brose N, Bradley L, Dimond K, Tan CX, Eroglu C. GEARBOCS: An Adeno Associated Virus Tool for In Vivo Gene Editing in Astrocytes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.01.17.524433. [PMID: 36711516 PMCID: PMC9884502 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.17.524433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are indispensable for brain development, function, and health. However, molecular tools to study astrocyte biology and function in vivo have been largely limited to genetically modified mice. Here, we developed a CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing strategy within a single AAV vector that enables efficient genome manipulations in astrocytes. We designed and optimized this easy-to-use viral tool to understand gene expression, protein localization and function in astrocytes in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dhanesh Sivadasan Bindu
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Justin T. Savage
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Nicholas Brose
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Luke Bradley
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Kylie Dimond
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Christabel Xin Tan
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Cagla Eroglu
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wong VC, Houlihan PR, Liu H, Walpita D, DeSantis MC, Liu Z, O'Shea EK. Plasticity-induced actin polymerization in the dendritic shaft regulates intracellular AMPA receptor trafficking. eLife 2024; 13:e80622. [PMID: 39146380 PMCID: PMC11326776 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80622] [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: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
AMPA-type receptors (AMPARs) are rapidly inserted into synapses undergoing plasticity to increase synaptic transmission, but it is not fully understood if and how AMPAR-containing vesicles are selectively trafficked to these synapses. Here, we developed a strategy to label AMPAR GluA1 subunits expressed from their endogenous loci in cultured rat hippocampal neurons and characterized the motion of GluA1-containing vesicles using single-particle tracking and mathematical modeling. We find that GluA1-containing vesicles are confined and concentrated near sites of stimulation-induced structural plasticity. We show that confinement is mediated by actin polymerization, which hinders the active transport of GluA1-containing vesicles along the length of the dendritic shaft by modulating the rheological properties of the cytoplasm. Actin polymerization also facilitates myosin-mediated transport of GluA1-containing vesicles to exocytic sites. We conclude that neurons utilize F-actin to increase vesicular GluA1 reservoirs and promote exocytosis proximal to the sites of synaptic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor C Wong
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, United States
| | - Patrick R Houlihan
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, United States
| | - Hui Liu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, United States
| | - Deepika Walpita
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, United States
| | - Michael C DeSantis
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, United States
| | - Zhe Liu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, United States
| | - Erin K O'Shea
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yoshioka N, Kurose M, Sano H, Tran DM, Chiken S, Tainaka K, Yamamura K, Kobayashi K, Nambu A, Takebayashi H. Sensory-motor circuit is a therapeutic target for dystonia musculorum mice, a model of hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy 6. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj9335. [PMID: 39058787 PMCID: PMC11277474 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj9335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in Dystonin (DST), which encodes cytoskeletal linker proteins, cause hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy 6 (HSAN-VI) in humans and the dystonia musculorum (dt) phenotype in mice; however, the neuronal circuit underlying the HSAN-VI and dt phenotype is unresolved. dt mice exhibit dystonic movements accompanied by the simultaneous contraction of agonist and antagonist muscles and postnatal lethality. Here, we identified the sensory-motor circuit as a major causative neural circuit using a gene trap system that enables neural circuit-selective inactivation and restoration of Dst by Cre-mediated recombination. Sensory neuron-selective Dst deletion led to motor impairment, degeneration of proprioceptive sensory neurons, and disruption of the sensory-motor circuit. Restoration of Dst expression in sensory neurons using Cre driver mice or a single postnatal injection of Cre-expressing adeno-associated virus ameliorated sensory degeneration and improved abnormal movements. These findings demonstrate that the sensory-motor circuit is involved in the movement disorders in dt mice and that the sensory circuit is a therapeutic target for HSAN-VI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nozomu Yoshioka
- Division of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
- Transdisciplinary Research Programs, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kurose
- Department of Physiology, School of Dentistry, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
- Division of Oral Physiology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiromi Sano
- Division of System Neurophysiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
- Division of Behavioral Neuropharmacology, International Center for Brain Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Dang Minh Tran
- Division of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Satomi Chiken
- Division of System Neurophysiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Kazuki Tainaka
- Department of System Pathology for Neurological Disorders, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Kensuke Yamamura
- Division of Oral Physiology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nambu
- Division of System Neurophysiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Hirohide Takebayashi
- Division of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
- Center for Coordination of Research Facilities, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Saito S, Adachi N. Characterization and regulation of cell cycle-independent noncanonical gene targeting. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5044. [PMID: 38890315 PMCID: PMC11189520 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49385-9] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Homology-dependent targeted DNA integration, generally referred to as gene targeting, provides a powerful tool for precise genome modification; however, its fundamental mechanisms remain poorly understood in human cells. Here we reveal a noncanonical gene targeting mechanism that does not rely on the homologous recombination (HR) protein Rad51. This mechanism is suppressed by Rad52 inhibition, suggesting the involvement of single-strand annealing (SSA). The SSA-mediated gene targeting becomes prominent when DSB repair by HR or end-joining pathways is defective and does not require isogenic DNA, permitting 5% sequence divergence. Intriguingly, loss of Msh2, loss of BLM, and induction of a target-site DNA break all significantly and synergistically enhance SSA-mediated targeted integration. Most notably, SSA-mediated integration is cell cycle-independent, occurring in the G1 phase as well. Our findings provide unequivocal evidence for Rad51-independent targeted integration and unveil multiple mechanisms to regulate SSA-mediated targeted as well as random integration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shinta Saito
- Department of Life and Environmental System Science, Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan
| | - Noritaka Adachi
- Department of Life and Environmental System Science, Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Banazadeh M, Abiri A, Poortaheri MM, Asnaashari L, Langarizadeh MA, Forootanfar H. Unexplored power of CRISPR-Cas9 in neuroscience, a multi-OMICs review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 263:130413. [PMID: 38408576 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The neuroscience and neurobiology of gene editing to enhance learning and memory is of paramount interest to the scientific community. The advancements of CRISPR system have created avenues to treat neurological disorders by means of versatile modalities varying from expression to suppression of genes and proteins. Neurodegenerative disorders have also been attributed to non-canonical DNA secondary structures by affecting neuron activity through controlling gene expression, nucleosome shape, transcription, translation, replication, and recombination. Changing DNA regulatory elements which could contribute to the fate and function of neurons are thoroughly discussed in this review. This study presents the ability of CRISPR system to boost learning power and memory, treat or cure genetically-based neurological disorders, and alleviate psychiatric diseases by altering the activity and the irritability of the neurons at the synaptic cleft through DNA manipulation, and also, epigenetic modifications using Cas9. We explore and examine how each different OMIC techniques can come useful when altering DNA sequences. Such insight into the underlying relationship between OMICs and cellular behaviors leads us to better neurological and psychiatric therapeutics by intelligently designing and utilizing the CRISPR/Cas9 technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Banazadeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences and Cosmetic Products Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ardavan Abiri
- Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Integrated Graduate Program in Physical and Engineering Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | | | - Lida Asnaashari
- Student Research Committee, Kerman Universiy of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Langarizadeh
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Forootanfar
- Pharmaceutical Sciences and Cosmetic Products Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Salomonsson SE, Clelland CD. Building CRISPR Gene Therapies for the Central Nervous System: A Review. JAMA Neurol 2024; 81:283-290. [PMID: 38285472 PMCID: PMC11164426 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2023.4983] [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] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Importance Gene editing using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) holds the promise to arrest or cure monogenic disease if it can be determined which genetic change to create without inducing unintended cellular dysfunction and how to deliver this technology to the target organ reliably and safely. Clinical trials for blood and liver disorders, for which delivery of CRISPR is not limiting, show promise, yet no trials have begun for central nervous system (CNS) indications. Observations The CNS is arguably the most challenging target given its innate exclusion of large molecules and its defenses against bacterial invasion (from which CRISPR originates). Herein, the types of CRISPR editing (DNA cutting, base editing, and templated repair) and how these are applied to different genetic variants are summarized. The challenges of delivering genome editors to the CNS, including the viral and nonviral delivery vehicles that may ultimately circumvent these challenges, are discussed. Also, ways to minimize the potential in vivo genotoxic effects of genome editors through delivery vehicle design and preclinical off-target testing are considered. The ethical considerations of germline editing, a potential off-target outcome of any gene editing therapy, are explored. The unique regulatory challenges of a human-specific therapy that cannot be derisked solely in animal models are also discussed. Conclusions and Relevance An understanding of both the potential benefits and challenges of CRISPR gene therapy better informs the scientific, clinical, regulatory, and timeline considerations of developing CRISPR gene therapy for neurologic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally E Salomonsson
- Department of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco
- Department of Neurology, Memory and Aging Center, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Claire D Clelland
- Department of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco
- Department of Neurology, Memory and Aging Center, University of California, San Francisco
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zheng Y, Li Y, Zhou K, Li T, VanDusen NJ, Hua Y. Precise genome-editing in human diseases: mechanisms, strategies and applications. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:47. [PMID: 38409199 PMCID: PMC10897424 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01750-2] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Precise genome-editing platforms are versatile tools for generating specific, site-directed DNA insertions, deletions, and substitutions. The continuous enhancement of these tools has led to a revolution in the life sciences, which promises to deliver novel therapies for genetic disease. Precise genome-editing can be traced back to the 1950s with the discovery of DNA's double-helix and, after 70 years of development, has evolved from crude in vitro applications to a wide range of sophisticated capabilities, including in vivo applications. Nonetheless, precise genome-editing faces constraints such as modest efficiency, delivery challenges, and off-target effects. In this review, we explore precise genome-editing, with a focus on introduction of the landmark events in its history, various platforms, delivery systems, and applications. First, we discuss the landmark events in the history of precise genome-editing. Second, we describe the current state of precise genome-editing strategies and explain how these techniques offer unprecedented precision and versatility for modifying the human genome. Third, we introduce the current delivery systems used to deploy precise genome-editing components through DNA, RNA, and RNPs. Finally, we summarize the current applications of precise genome-editing in labeling endogenous genes, screening genetic variants, molecular recording, generating disease models, and gene therapy, including ex vivo therapy and in vivo therapy, and discuss potential future advances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanjiang Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Yifei Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Kaiyu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Tiange Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Nathan J VanDusen
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Yimin Hua
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wal P, Aziz N, Prajapati H, Soni S, Wal A. Current Landscape of Various Techniques and Methods of Gene Therapy through CRISPR Cas9 along with its Pharmacological and Interventional Therapies in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Curr Diabetes Rev 2024; 20:e201023222414. [PMID: 37867274 DOI: 10.2174/0115733998263079231011073803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is frequently referred to as a "lifestyle illness". In 2000, India (31.7 million) had the greatest global prevalence of diabetes mellitus, followed by China (20.8 million), the United States (17.7 million), and other countries. In recent years, the treatment of gene therapy (T2DM) has attracted intensive interest. OBJECTIVE We aimed to critically review the literature on the various techniques and methods, which may be a possible novel approach through the gene therapy CRISPR Cas9 and some other gene editing techniques for T2DM. Interventional and pharmacological approaches for the treatment of T2DM were also included to identify novel therapies for its treatment. METHOD An extensive literature survey was done on databases like PubMed, Elsevier, Science Direct and Springer. CONCLUSION It can be concluded from the study that recent advancements in gene-editing technologies, such as CRISPR Cas9, have opened new avenues for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for T2DM. CRISPR Cas9 is a powerful tool that enables precise and targeted modifications of the genome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Wal
- PSIT-Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology (Pharmacy), Bhauti, Kanpur, UP, 209305, India
| | - Namra Aziz
- PSIT-Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology (Pharmacy), Bhauti, Kanpur, UP, 209305, India
| | - Harshit Prajapati
- PSIT-Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology (Pharmacy), Bhauti, Kanpur, UP, 209305, India
| | - Shashank Soni
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Lucknow, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, Sector 125, Noida, 201313, India
| | - Ankita Wal
- PSIT-Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology (Pharmacy), Bhauti, Kanpur, UP, 209305, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Regio S, Vachey G, Goñi E, Duarte F, Rybarikova M, Sipion M, Rey M, Huarte M, Déglon N. Revisiting the outcome of adult wild-type Htt inactivation in the context of HTT-lowering strategies for Huntington's disease. Brain Commun 2023; 5:fcad344. [PMID: 38116140 PMCID: PMC10729863 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcad344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntingtin-lowering strategies are central to therapeutic approaches for Huntington's disease. Recent studies reported the induction of age- and cell type-specific phenotypes by conditional huntingtin knockout, but these experimental conditions did not precisely mimic huntingtin-lowering or gene-editing conditions in terms of the cells targeted and brain distribution, and no transcriptional profiles were provided. Here, we used the adeno-associated delivery system commonly used in CNS gene therapy programmes and the self-inactivating KamiCas9 gene-editing system to investigate the long-term consequences of wild-type mouse huntingtin inactivation in adult neurons and, thus, the feasibility and safety of huntingtin inactivation in these cells. Behavioural and neuropathological analyses and single-nuclei RNA sequencing indicated that huntingtin editing in 77% of striatal neurons and 16% of cortical projecting neurons in adult mice induced no behavioural deficits or cellular toxicity. Single-nuclei RNA sequencing in 11.5-month-old animals showed that huntingtin inactivation did not alter striatal-cell profiles or proportions. Few differentially expressed genes were identified and Augur analysis confirmed an extremely limited response to huntingtin inactivation in all cell types. Our results therefore indicate that wild-type huntingtin inactivation in adult striatal and projection neurons is well tolerated in the long term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Regio
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Gabriel Vachey
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Enrique Goñi
- Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain
- Institute of Health Research of Navarra (IdiSNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona 31008, Spain
| | - Fabio Duarte
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Margareta Rybarikova
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Mélanie Sipion
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Maria Rey
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Maite Huarte
- Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain
- Institute of Health Research of Navarra (IdiSNA), Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), Pamplona 31008, Spain
| | - Nicole Déglon
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Moço PD, Farnós O, Sharon D, Kamen AA. Targeted Delivery of Chimeric Antigen Receptor into T Cells via CRISPR-Mediated Homology-Directed Repair with a Dual-AAV6 Transduction System. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7705-7720. [PMID: 37886930 PMCID: PMC10605174 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45100486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR-T cell therapy involves genetically engineering T cells to recognize and attack tumour cells by adding a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) to their surface. In this study, we have used dual transduction with AAV serotype 6 (AAV6) to integrate an anti-CD19 CAR into human T cells at a known genomic location. The first viral vector expresses the Cas9 endonuclease and a guide RNA (gRNA) targeting the T cell receptor alpha constant locus, while the second vector carries the DNA template for homology-mediated CAR insertion. We evaluated three gRNA candidates and determined their efficiency in generating indels. The AAV6 successfully delivered the CRISPR/Cas9 machinery in vitro, and molecular analysis of the dual transduction showed the integration of the CAR transgene into the desired location. In contrast to the random integration methods typically used to generate CAR-T cells, targeted integration into a known genomic locus can potentially lower the risk of insertional mutagenesis and provide more stable levels of CAR expression. Critically, this method also results in the knockout of the endogenous T cell receptor, allowing target cells to be derived from allogeneic donors. This raises the exciting possibility of "off-the-shelf" universal immunotherapies that would greatly simplify the production and administration of CAR-T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Amine A. Kamen
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0E9, Canada; (P.D.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yang C, Shitamukai A, Yang S, Kawaguchi A. Advanced Techniques Using In Vivo Electroporation to Study the Molecular Mechanisms of Cerebral Development Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14128. [PMID: 37762431 PMCID: PMC10531473 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814128] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian cerebral cortex undergoes a strictly regulated developmental process. Detailed in situ visualizations, imaging of these dynamic processes, and in vivo functional gene studies significantly enhance our understanding of brain development and related disorders. This review introduces basic techniques and recent advancements in in vivo electroporation for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying cerebral diseases. In utero electroporation (IUE) is extensively used to visualize and modify these processes, including the forced expression of pathological mutants in human diseases; thus, this method can be used to establish animal disease models. The advent of advanced techniques, such as genome editing, including de novo knockout, knock-in, epigenetic editing, and spatiotemporal gene regulation, has further expanded our list of investigative tools. These tools include the iON expression switch for the precise control of timing and copy numbers of exogenous genes and TEMPO for investigating the temporal effects of genes. We also introduce the iGONAD method, an improved genome editing via oviductal nucleic acid delivery approach, as a novel genome-editing technique that has accelerated brain development exploration. These advanced in vivo electroporation methods are expected to provide valuable insights into pathological conditions associated with human brain disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yang
- Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
- Department of Human Morphology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Density and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Atsunori Shitamukai
- Department of Human Morphology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Density and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Shucai Yang
- Human Anatomy and Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Ayano Kawaguchi
- Department of Human Morphology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Density and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gimenez J, Spalloni A, Cappelli S, Ciaiola F, Orlando V, Buratti E, Longone P. TDP-43 Epigenetic Facets and Their Neurodegenerative Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13807. [PMID: 37762112 PMCID: PMC10530927 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its initial involvement in numerous neurodegenerative pathologies in 2006, either as a principal actor or as a cofactor, new pathologies implicating transactive response (TAR) DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) are regularly emerging also beyond the neuronal system. This reflects the fact that TDP-43 functions are particularly complex and broad in a great variety of human cells. In neurodegenerative diseases, this protein is often pathologically delocalized to the cytoplasm, where it irreversibly aggregates and is subjected to various post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, polyubiquitination, and cleavage. Until a few years ago, the research emphasis has been focused particularly on the impacts of this aggregation and/or on its widely described role in complex RNA splicing, whether related to loss- or gain-of-function mechanisms. Interestingly, recent studies have strengthened the knowledge of TDP-43 activity at the chromatin level and its implication in the regulation of DNA transcription and stability. These discoveries have highlighted new features regarding its own transcriptional regulation and suggested additional mechanistic and disease models for the effects of TPD-43. In this review, we aim to give a comprehensive view of the potential epigenetic (de)regulations driven by (and driving) this multitask DNA/RNA-binding protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Gimenez
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia (FSL), 00143 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (P.L.)
| | - Alida Spalloni
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia (FSL), 00143 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (P.L.)
| | - Sara Cappelli
- Molecular Pathology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Francesca Ciaiola
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia (FSL), 00143 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (P.L.)
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Roma Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Orlando
- KAUST Environmental Epigenetics Program, Biological Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division BESE, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Emanuele Buratti
- Molecular Pathology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Patrizia Longone
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia (FSL), 00143 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (P.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Duarte F, Vachey G, Caron NS, Sipion M, Rey M, Perrier AL, Hayden MR, Déglon N. Limitations of Dual-Single Guide RNA CRISPR Strategies for the Treatment of Central Nervous System Genetic Disorders. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:958-974. [PMID: 37658843 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.109] [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: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder caused by a toxic gain-of-function CAG expansion in the first exon of the huntingtin (HTT) gene. The monogenic nature of HD makes mutant HTT (mHTT) inactivation a promising therapeutic strategy. Single nucleotide polymorphisms frequently associated with CAG expansion have been explored to selectively inactivate mHTT allele using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. One of such allele-selective approaches consists of excising a region flanking the first exon of mHTT by inducing simultaneous double-strand breaks at upstream and downstream positions of the mHTT exon 1. The removal of the first exon of mHTT deletes the CAG expansion and important transcription regulatory sites, leading to mHTT inactivation. However, the frequency of deletion events is yet to be quantified either in vitro or in vivo. Here, we developed accurate quantitative digital polymerase chain reaction-based assays to assess HTT exon 1 deletion in vitro and in fully humanized HU97/18 mice. Our results demonstrate that dual-single guide RNA (sgRNA) strategies are efficient and that 67% of HTT editing events are leading to exon 1 deletion in HEK293T cells. In contrast, these sgRNA actively cleaved HTT in HU97/18 mice, but most editing events do not lead to exon 1 deletion (10% exon 1 deletion). We also showed that the in vivo editing pattern is not affected by CAG expansion but may potentially be due to the presence of multiple copies of wildtype (wt)/mHTT genes HU97/18 mice as well as the slow kinetics of AAV-mediated CRISPR/Cas9 delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Duarte
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC)
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN); Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gabriel Vachey
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC)
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN); Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas S Caron
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, BC Children's Hospital and Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Melanie Sipion
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC)
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN); Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maria Rey
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC)
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN); Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anselme L Perrier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives: mécanismes, thérapies, imagerie, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Molecular Imaging Research Center, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Michael R Hayden
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, BC Children's Hospital and Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicole Déglon
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DNC)
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies (LCMN), Neuroscience Research Center (CRN); Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zheng R, Zhang L, Parvin R, Su L, Chi J, Shi K, Ye F, Huang X. Progress and Perspective of CRISPR-Cas9 Technology in Translational Medicine. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2300195. [PMID: 37356052 PMCID: PMC10477906 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Translational medicine aims to improve human health by exploring potential treatment methods developed during basic scientific research and applying them to the treatment of patients in clinical settings. The advanced perceptions of gene functions have remarkably revolutionized clinical treatment strategies for target agents. However, the progress in gene editing therapy has been hindered due to the severe off-target effects and limited editing sites. Fortunately, the development in the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) system has renewed hope for gene therapy field. The CRISPR-Cas9 system can fulfill various simple or complex purposes, including gene knockout, knock-in, activation, interference, base editing, and sequence detection. Accordingly, the CRISPR-Cas9 system is adaptable to translational medicine, which calls for the alteration of genomic sequences. This review aims to present the latest CRISPR-Cas9 technology achievements and prospect to translational medicine advances. The principle and characterization of the CRISPR-Cas9 system are firstly introduced. The authors then focus on recent pre-clinical and clinical research directions, including the construction of disease models, disease-related gene screening and regulation, and disease treatment and diagnosis for multiple refractory diseases. Finally, some clinical challenges including off-target effects, in vivo vectors, and ethical problems, and future perspective are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruixuan Zheng
- Joint Centre of Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Division of Pulmonary MedicineThe First Affiliated HospitalWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Interdiscipline and Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
| | - Lexiang Zhang
- Joint Centre of Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Interdiscipline and Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative MedicineVision and Brain Health); Wenzhou InstituteUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
| | - Rokshana Parvin
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative MedicineVision and Brain Health); Wenzhou InstituteUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
| | - Lihuang Su
- Joint Centre of Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Division of Pulmonary MedicineThe First Affiliated HospitalWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Interdiscipline and Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
| | - Junjie Chi
- Joint Centre of Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Interdiscipline and Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
| | - Keqing Shi
- Joint Centre of Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Interdiscipline and Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
| | - Fangfu Ye
- Joint Centre of Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative MedicineVision and Brain Health); Wenzhou InstituteUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter PhysicsInstitute of PhysicsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- Joint Centre of Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Division of Pulmonary MedicineThe First Affiliated HospitalWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Interdiscipline and Translational MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Doman JL, Pandey S, Neugebauer ME, An M, Davis JR, Randolph PB, McElroy A, Gao XD, Raguram A, Richter MF, Everette KA, Banskota S, Tian K, Tao YA, Tolar J, Osborn MJ, Liu DR. Phage-assisted evolution and protein engineering yield compact, efficient prime editors. Cell 2023; 186:3983-4002.e26. [PMID: 37657419 PMCID: PMC10482982 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Prime editing enables a wide variety of precise genome edits in living cells. Here we use protein evolution and engineering to generate prime editors with reduced size and improved efficiency. Using phage-assisted evolution, we improved editing efficiencies of compact reverse transcriptases by up to 22-fold and generated prime editors that are 516-810 base pairs smaller than the current-generation editor PEmax. We discovered that different reverse transcriptases specialize in different types of edits and used this insight to generate reverse transcriptases that outperform PEmax and PEmaxΔRNaseH, the truncated editor used in dual-AAV delivery systems. Finally, we generated Cas9 domains that improve prime editing. These resulting editors (PE6a-g) enhance therapeutically relevant editing in patient-derived fibroblasts and primary human T-cells. PE6 variants also enable longer insertions to be installed in vivo following dual-AAV delivery, achieving 40% loxP insertion in the cortex of the murine brain, a 24-fold improvement compared to previous state-of-the-art prime editors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan L Doman
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Smriti Pandey
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Monica E Neugebauer
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Meirui An
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jessie R Davis
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Peyton B Randolph
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Amber McElroy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Xin D Gao
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Aditya Raguram
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Michelle F Richter
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kelcee A Everette
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Samagya Banskota
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kathryn Tian
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Y Allen Tao
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jakub Tolar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Mark J Osborn
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - David R Liu
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hayashi S, Ohno N, Knott G, Molnár Z. Correlative light and volume electron microscopy to study brain development. Microscopy (Oxf) 2023; 72:279-286. [PMID: 36620906 DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfad002] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in volume electron microscopy (EM) have been driving our thorough understanding of the brain architecture. Volume EM becomes increasingly powerful when cells and their subcellular structures that are imaged in light microscopy are correlated to those in ultramicrographs obtained with EM. This correlative approach, called correlative light and volume electron microscopy (vCLEM), is used to link three-dimensional ultrastructural information with physiological data such as intracellular Ca2+ dynamics. Genetic tools to express fluorescent proteins and/or an engineered form of a soybean ascorbate peroxidase allow us to perform vCLEM using natural landmarks including blood vessels without immunohistochemical staining. This immunostaining-free vCLEM has been successfully employed in two-photon Ca2+ imaging in vivo as well as in studying complex synaptic connections in thalamic neurons that receive a variety of specialized inputs from the cerebral cortex. In this mini-review, we overview how volume EM and vCLEM have contributed to studying the developmental processes of the brain. We also discuss potential applications of genetic manipulation of target cells using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 and subsequent volume EM to the analysis of protein localization as well as to loss-of-function studies of genes regulating brain development. We give examples for the combinatorial usage of genetic tools with vCLEM that will further enhance our understanding of regulatory mechanisms underlying brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuichi Hayashi
- Department of Anatomy, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0192, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Ohno
- Department of Anatomy, Division of Histology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
- Division of Ultrastructural Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
| | - Graham Knott
- Biological Electron Microscopy Facility, Faculty of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Route Cantonale, Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Zoltán Molnár
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vittani M, Knak PAG, Fukuda M, Nagao M, Wang X, Kjaerby C, Konno A, Hirai H, Nedergaard M, Hirase H. Virally induced CRISPR/Cas9-based knock-in of fluorescent albumin allows long-term visualization of cerebral circulation in infant and adult mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.10.548084. [PMID: 37503027 PMCID: PMC10369863 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.10.548084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Albumin, a protein produced by liver hepatocytes, represents the most abundant protein in blood plasma. We have previously engineered a liver-targeting adeno-associated viral vector (AAV) that expresses fluorescent protein-tagged albumin to visualize blood plasma in mice. While this approach is versatile for imaging in adult mice, transgene expression vanishes when AAV is administered in neonates due to dilution of the episomal AAV genome in the rapidly growing liver. Here, we use CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to insert the fluorescent protein mNeonGreen (mNG) gene into the albumin (Alb) locus of hepatocytes to produce fluorescently labeled albumin (Alb-mNG). We constructed a CRISPR AAV that includes ∼1 kb homologous arms around Alb exon 14 to express Alb-mNG. Subcutaneous injection of this AAV with AAV-CMV-Cas9 in postnatal day 3 mice resulted in two-photon visualization of the cerebral cortex vasculature within ten days. The expression levels of Alb-mNG were persistent for at least three months and were so robust that vasomotion and capillary blood flow could be assessed transcranially in early postnatal mice. This knock-in approach provides powerful means for micro- and macroscopic imaging of cerebral vascular dynamics in postnatal and adult mice.
Collapse
|
19
|
Avallone M, Pardo J, Mergiya TF, Rájová J, Räsänen A, Davidsson M, Åkerblom M, Quintino L, Kumar D, Bramham CR, Björklund T. Visualizing Arc protein dynamics and localization in the mammalian brain using AAV-mediated in situ gene labeling. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1140785. [PMID: 37415832 PMCID: PMC10321715 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1140785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated (Arc) protein is essential for synaptic plasticity and memory formation. The Arc gene, which contains remnants of a structural GAG retrotransposon sequence, produces a protein that self-assembles into capsid-like structures harboring Arc mRNA. Arc capsids, released from neurons, have been proposed as a novel intercellular mechanism for mRNA transmission. Nevertheless, evidence for intercellular transport of Arc in the mammalian brain is still lacking. To enable the tracking of Arc molecules from individual neurons in vivo, we devised an adeno-associated virus (AAV) mediated approach to tag the N-terminal of the mouse Arc protein with a fluorescent reporter using CRISPR/Cas9 homologous independent targeted integration (HITI). We show that a sequence coding for mCherry can successfully be knocked in at the 5' end of the Arc open reading frame. While nine spCas9 gene editing sites surround the Arc start codon, the accuracy of the editing was highly sequence-dependent, with only a single target resulting in an in-frame reporter integration. When inducing long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus, we observed an increase of Arc protein highly correlated with an increase in fluorescent intensity and the number of mCherry-positive cells. By proximity ligation assay (PLA), we demonstrated that the mCherry-Arc fusion protein retains the Arc function by interacting with the transmembrane protein stargazin in postsynaptic spines. Finally, we recorded mCherry-Arc interaction with presynaptic protein Bassoon in mCherry-negative surrounding neurons at close proximity to mCherry-positive spines of edited neurons. This is the first study to provide support for inter-neuronal in vivo transfer of Arc in the mammalian brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martino Avallone
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Joaquín Pardo
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata “Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner” (INIBIOLP), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)—Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), La Plata, Argentina
| | - Tadiwos F. Mergiya
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Mohn Research Center for the Brain, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jana Rájová
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Atte Räsänen
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marcus Davidsson
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Åkerblom
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Luis Quintino
- CNS Gene Therapy, Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Clive R. Bramham
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Mohn Research Center for the Brain, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Tomas Björklund
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rohn TT, Radin D, Brandmeyer T, Linder BJ, Andriambeloson E, Wagner S, Kehler J, Vasileva A, Wang H, Mee JL, Fallon JH. Genetic modulation of the HTR2A gene reduces anxiety-related behavior in mice. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad170. [PMID: 37346271 PMCID: PMC10281383 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
The expanding field of precision gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9 has demonstrated its potential as a transformative technology in the treatment of various diseases. However, whether this genome-editing tool could be used to modify neural circuits in the central nervous system (CNS), which are implicated in complex behavioral traits, remains uncertain. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of noninvasive, intranasal delivery of adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) vectors containing CRISPR/Cas9 cargo within the CNS resulting in modification of the HTR2A receptor gene. In vitro, exposure to primary mouse cortical neurons to AAV9 vectors targeting the HT2RA gene led to a concentration-dependent decrease in spontaneous electrical activity following multielectrode array (MEA) analysis. In vivo, at 5 weeks postintranasal delivery in mice, analysis of brain samples revealed single base pair deletions and nonsense mutations, leading to an 8.46-fold reduction in mRNA expression and a corresponding 68% decrease in the 5HT-2A receptor staining. Our findings also demonstrate a significant decrease in anxiety-like behavior in treated mice. This study constitutes the first successful demonstration of a noninvasive CRISPR/Cas9 delivery platform, capable of bypassing the blood-brain barrier and enabling modulation of neuronal 5HT-2A receptor pathways. The results of this study targeting the HTR2A gene provide a foundation for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies for a broad range of neurological disorders, including anxiety, depression, attentional deficits, and cognitive dysfunction.
Collapse
|
21
|
Palmieri M, Pozzer D, Landsberger N. Advanced genetic therapies for the treatment of Rett syndrome: state of the art and future perspectives. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1172805. [PMID: 37304036 PMCID: PMC10248472 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1172805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss and gain of functions mutations in the X-linked MECP2 (methyl-CpG-binding protein 2) gene are responsible for a set of generally severe neurological disorders that can affect both genders. In particular, Mecp2 deficiency is mainly associated with Rett syndrome (RTT) in girls, while duplication of the MECP2 gene leads, mainly in boys, to the MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS). No cure is currently available for MECP2 related disorders. However, several studies have reported that by re-expressing the wild-type gene is possible to restore defective phenotypes of Mecp2 null animals. This proof of principle endorsed many laboratories to search for novel therapeutic strategies to cure RTT. Besides pharmacological approaches aimed at modulating MeCP2-downstream pathways, genetic targeting of MECP2 or its transcript have been largely proposed. Remarkably, two studies focused on augmentative gene therapy were recently approved for clinical trials. Both use molecular strategies to well-control gene dosage. Notably, the recent development of genome editing technologies has opened an alternative way to specifically target MECP2 without altering its physiological levels. Other attractive approaches exclusively applicable for nonsense mutations are the translational read-through (TR) and t-RNA suppressor therapy. Reactivation of the MECP2 locus on the silent X chromosome represents another valid choice for the disease. In this article, we intend to review the most recent genetic interventions for the treatment of RTT, describing the current state of the art, and the related advantages and concerns. We will also discuss the possible application of other advanced therapies, based on molecular delivery through nanoparticles, already proposed for other neurological disorders but still not tested in RTT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Palmieri
- Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Hospital (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Pozzer
- Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Hospital (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Landsberger
- Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Hospital (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Parisi MJ, Aimino MA, Mosca TJ. A conditional strategy for cell-type-specific labeling of endogenous excitatory synapses in Drosophila. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2023; 3:100477. [PMID: 37323572 PMCID: PMC10261928 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Chemical neurotransmission occurs at specialized contacts where neurotransmitter release machinery apposes neurotransmitter receptors to underlie circuit function. A series of complex events underlies pre- and postsynaptic protein recruitment to neuronal connections. To better study synaptic development in individual neurons, we need cell-type-specific strategies to visualize endogenous synaptic proteins. Although presynaptic strategies exist, postsynaptic proteins remain less studied because of a paucity of cell-type-specific reagents. To study excitatory postsynapses with cell-type specificity, we engineered dlg1[4K], a conditionally labeled marker of Drosophila excitatory postsynaptic densities. With binary expression systems, dlg1[4K] labels central and peripheral postsynapses in larvae and adults. Using dlg1[4K], we find that distinct rules govern postsynaptic organization in adult neurons, multiple binary expression systems can concurrently label pre- and postsynapse in a cell-type-specific manner, and neuronal DLG1 can sometimes localize presynaptically. These results validate our strategy for conditional postsynaptic labeling and demonstrate principles of synaptic organization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Parisi
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Bluemle Life Sciences Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Michael A. Aimino
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Bluemle Life Sciences Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Timothy J. Mosca
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Bluemle Life Sciences Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Li ZH, Wang J, Xu JP, Wang J, Yang X. Recent advances in CRISPR-based genome editing technology and its applications in cardiovascular research. Mil Med Res 2023; 10:12. [PMID: 36895064 PMCID: PMC9999643 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-023-00447-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of genome editing technology has brought major breakthroughs in the fields of life science and medicine. In recent years, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based genome editing toolbox has been greatly expanded, not only with emerging CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) nucleases, but also novel applications through combination with diverse effectors. Recently, transposon-associated programmable RNA-guided genome editing systems have been uncovered, adding myriads of potential new tools to the genome editing toolbox. CRISPR-based genome editing technology has also revolutionized cardiovascular research. Here we first summarize the advances involving newly identified Cas orthologs, engineered variants and novel genome editing systems, and then discuss the applications of the CRISPR-Cas systems in precise genome editing, such as base editing and prime editing. We also highlight recent progress in cardiovascular research using CRISPR-based genome editing technologies, including the generation of genetically modified in vitro and animal models of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) as well as the applications in treating different types of CVD. Finally, the current limitations and future prospects of genome editing technologies are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Hua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Jun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Jing-Ping Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 100071, China.,Yaneng BIOScience (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, 518102, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 100071, China.
| | - Xiao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, 100071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Giandomenico SL, Schuman EM. Genetic manipulation and targeted protein degradation in mammalian systems: practical considerations, tips and tricks for discovery research. FEBS Open Bio 2023. [PMID: 36815235 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Gaining a mechanistic understanding of the molecular pathways underpinning cellular and organismal physiology invariably relies on the perturbation of an experimental system to infer causality. This can be achieved either by genetic manipulation or by pharmacological treatment. Generally, the former approach is applicable to a wider range of targets, is more precise, and can address more nuanced functional aspects. Despite such apparent advantages, genetic manipulation (i.e., knock-down, knock-out, mutation, and tagging) in mammalian systems can be challenging due to problems with delivery, low rates of homologous recombination, and epigenetic silencing. The advent of CRISPR-Cas9 in combination with the development of robust differentiation protocols that can efficiently generate a variety of different cell types in vitro has accelerated our ability to probe gene function in a more physiological setting. Often, the main obstacle in this path of enquiry is to achieve the desired genetic modification. In this short review, we will focus on gene perturbation in mammalian cells and how editing and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells can complement more traditional approaches. Additionally, we introduce novel targeted protein degradation approaches as an alternative to DNA/RNA-based manipulation. Our aim is to present a broad overview of recent approaches and in vitro systems to study mammalian cell biology. Due to space limitations, we limit ourselves to providing the inexperienced reader with a conceptual framework on how to use these tools, and for more in-depth information, we will provide specific references throughout.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin M Schuman
- Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Single-Cell Labeling Strategies to Dissect Neuronal Structures and Local Functions. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020321. [PMID: 36829594 PMCID: PMC9953318 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
The brain network consists of ten billion neurons and is the most complex structure in the universe. Understanding the structure of complex brain networks and neuronal functions is one of the main goals of modern neuroscience. Since the seminal invention of Golgi staining, single-cell labeling methods have been among the most potent approaches for dissecting neuronal structures and neural circuits. Furthermore, the development of sparse single-cell transgenic methods has enabled single-cell gene knockout studies to examine the local functions of various genes in neural circuits and synapses. Here, we review non-transgenic single-cell labeling methods and recent advances in transgenic strategies for sparse single neuronal labeling. These methods and strategies will fundamentally contribute to the understanding of brain structure and function.
Collapse
|
26
|
Sellers DL, Lee K, Murthy N, Pun SH. TAxI-peptide targeted Cas12a ribonuclease protein nanoformulations increase genome editing in hippocampal neurons. J Control Release 2023; 354:188-195. [PMID: 36596342 PMCID: PMC9975068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.12.057] [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: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy approaches that utilize Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) ribonucleases have tremendous potential to treat human disease. However, CRISPR therapies delivered by integrating viral vectors are limited by potential off-target genome editing caused by constitutive activation of ribonuclease functions. Thus, biomaterial formulations are being used for the delivery of purified CRISPR components to increase the efficiency and safety of genome editing approaches. We previously demonstrated that a novel peptide identified by phage display, TAxI-peptide, mediates delivery of recombinant proteins into neurons. In this report we utilized NeutrAvidin protein to formulate neuron-targeted genome-editing nanoparticles. Cas12a ribonucleases was loaded with biotinylated guide RNA and biotinylated TAxI-peptide onto NeutrAvidin protein to coordinate the formation a targeted ribonuclease protein (RNP) complex. TAxI-RNP complexes are polydisperse with a 14.3 nm radius. The nanoparticles are stable after formulation and show good stability in the presence of normal mouse serum. TAxI-RNP nanoparticles increased neuronal delivery of Cas12a in reporter mice, resulting in induced tdTomato expression after direct injection into the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. TAxI-RNP nanoparticles also increased genome editing efficacy in hippocampal neurons versus glia. These studies demonstrate the ability to assemble RNP nanoformulations with NeutrAvidin by binding biotinylated peptides and gRNA-loaded Cas12a ribonucleases into protein nanoparticles that target CRISPR delivery to specific cell-types in vivo. The potential to deliver CRISPR nanoparticles to specific cell-types and control off-target delivery to further reduce deleterious genome editing is essential for the creation of viable therapies to treat nervous system disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Drew L Sellers
- Department of Bioengineering and Molecular Engineering and Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, United States.
| | - Kunwoo Lee
- GenEdit Inc., Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Niren Murthy
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Suzie H Pun
- Department of Bioengineering and Molecular Engineering and Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Metzger JM, Wang Y, Neuman SS, Snow KJ, Murray SA, Lutz CM, Bondarenko V, Felton J, Gimse K, Xie R, Li D, Zhao Y, Flowers MT, Simmons HA, Roy S, Saha K, Levine JE, Emborg ME, Gong S. Efficient in vivo neuronal genome editing in the mouse brain using nanocapsules containing CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoproteins. Biomaterials 2023; 293:121959. [PMID: 36527789 PMCID: PMC9868115 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing of somatic cells via clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) offers promise for new therapeutics to treat a variety of genetic disorders, including neurological diseases. However, the dense and complex parenchyma of the brain and the post-mitotic state of neurons make efficient genome editing challenging. In vivo delivery systems for CRISPR-Cas proteins and single guide RNA (sgRNA) include both viral vectors and non-viral strategies, each presenting different advantages and disadvantages for clinical application. We developed non-viral and biodegradable PEGylated nanocapsules (NCs) that deliver preassembled Cas9-sgRNA ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). Here, we show that the RNP NCs led to robust genome editing in neurons following intracerebral injection into the healthy mouse striatum. Genome editing was predominantly observed in medium spiny neurons (>80%), with occasional editing in cholinergic, calretinin, and parvalbumin interneurons. Glial activation was minimal and was localized along the needle tract. Our results demonstrate that the RNP NCs are capable of safe and efficient neuronal genome editing in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette M Metzger
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Yuyuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Samuel S Neuman
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Kathy J Snow
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609, USA
| | | | | | - Viktoriya Bondarenko
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Jesi Felton
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Kirstan Gimse
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ruosen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Dongdong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Matthew T Flowers
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Heather A Simmons
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Subhojit Roy
- Departments of Pathology and Neuroscience, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Krishanu Saha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Jon E Levine
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Marina E Emborg
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
| | - Shaoqin Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Nair A, Greeny A, Rajendran R, Abdelgawad MA, Ghoneim MM, Raghavan RP, Sudevan ST, Mathew B, Kim H. KIF1A-Associated Neurological Disorder: An Overview of a Rare Mutational Disease. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:147. [PMID: 37259299 PMCID: PMC9962247 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
KIF1A-associated neurological diseases (KANDs) are a group of inherited conditions caused by changes in the microtubule (MT) motor protein KIF1A as a result of KIF1A gene mutations. Anterograde transport of membrane organelles is facilitated by the kinesin family protein encoded by the MT-based motor gene KIF1A. Variations in the KIF1A gene, which primarily affect the motor domain, disrupt its ability to transport synaptic vesicles containing synaptophysin and synaptotagmin leading to various neurological pathologies such as hereditary sensory neuropathy, autosomal dominant and recessive forms of spastic paraplegia, and different neurological conditions. These mutations are frequently misdiagnosed because they result from spontaneous, non-inherited genomic alterations. Whole-exome sequencing (WES), a cutting-edge method, assists neurologists in diagnosing the illness and in planning and choosing the best course of action. These conditions are simple to be identified in pediatric and have a life expectancy of 5-7 years. There is presently no permanent treatment for these illnesses, and researchers have not yet discovered a medicine to treat them. Scientists have more hope in gene therapy since it can be used to cure diseases brought on by mutations. In this review article, we discussed some of the experimental gene therapy methods, including gene replacement, gene knockdown, symptomatic gene therapy, and cell suicide gene therapy. It also covered its clinical symptoms, pathogenesis, current diagnostics, therapy, and research advances currently occurring in the field of KAND-related disorders. This review also explained the impact that gene therapy can be designed in this direction and afford the remarkable benefits to the patients and society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Nair
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amrita Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, India
| | - Alosh Greeny
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amrita Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, India
| | - Rajalakshmi Rajendran
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amrita Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, India
| | - Mohamed A. Abdelgawad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al Jouf 72341, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
| | - Mohammed M. Ghoneim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Ad Diriyah 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Roshni Pushpa Raghavan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amrita Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, India
| | - Sachithra Thazhathuveedu Sudevan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Sciences Campus, Kochi 682 041, India
| | - Bijo Mathew
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Sciences Campus, Kochi 682 041, India
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, and Research Institute of Life Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Qin Y, Li S, Li XJ, Yang S. CRISPR-Based Genome-Editing Tools for Huntington's Disease Research and Therapy. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:1397-1408. [PMID: 35608753 PMCID: PMC9672252 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00880-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal dominantly-inherited neurodegenerative disease, which is caused by CAG trinucleotide expansion in exon 1 of the Huntingtin (HTT) gene. Although HD is a rare disease, its monogenic nature makes it an ideal model in which to understand pathogenic mechanisms and to develop therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases. Clustered regularly-interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) is the latest technology for genome editing. Being simple to use and highly efficient, CRISPR-based genome-editing tools are rapidly gaining popularity in biomedical research and opening up new avenues for disease treatment. Here, we review the development of CRISPR-based genome-editing tools and their applications in HD research to offer a translational perspective on advancing the genome-editing technology to HD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Qin
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Su Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Falahati H, Wu Y, Feuerer V, Simon HG, De Camilli P. Proximity proteomics of synaptopodin provides insight into the molecular composition of the spine apparatus of dendritic spines. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203750119. [PMID: 36215465 PMCID: PMC9586327 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203750119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The spine apparatus is a specialized compartment of the neuronal smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) located in a subset of dendritic spines. It consists of stacks of ER cisterns that are interconnected by an unknown dense matrix and are continuous with each other and with the ER of the dendritic shaft. While this organelle was first observed over 60 y ago, its molecular organization remains a mystery. Here, we performed in vivo proximity proteomics to gain some insight into its molecular components. To do so, we used the only known spine apparatus-specific protein, synaptopodin, to target a biotinylating enzyme to this organelle. We validated the specific localization in dendritic spines of a small subset of proteins identified by this approach, and we further showed their colocalization with synaptopodin when expressed in nonneuronal cells. One such protein is Pdlim7, an actin binding protein not previously identified in spines. Pdlim7, which we found to interact with synaptopodin through multiple domains, also colocalizes with synaptopodin on the cisternal organelle, a peculiar stack of ER cisterns resembling the spine apparatus and found at axon initial segments of a subset of neurons. Moreover, Pdlim7 has an expression pattern similar to that of synaptopodin in the brain, highlighting a functional partnership between the two proteins. The components of the spine apparatus identified in this work will help elucidate mechanisms in the biogenesis and maintenance of this enigmatic structure with implications for the function of dendritic spines in physiology and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanieh Falahati
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- HHMI, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration, and Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Yumei Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- HHMI, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration, and Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Vanessa Feuerer
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- HHMI, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration, and Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Hans-Georg Simon
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Pietro De Camilli
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- HHMI, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration, and Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ahmad I. CRISPR/Cas9-A Promising Therapeutic Tool to Cure Blindness: Current Scenario and Future Prospects. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:11482. [PMID: 36232782 PMCID: PMC9569777 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-based targeted genome editing is bringing revolutionary changes in the research arena of biological sciences. CRISPR/Cas9 has been explored as an efficient therapeutic tool for the treatment of genetic diseases. It has been widely used in ophthalmology research by using mouse models to correct pathogenic mutations in the eye stem cells. In recent studies, CRISPR/Cas9 has been used to correct a large number of mutations related to inherited retinal disorders. In vivo therapeutic advantages for retinal diseases have been successfully achieved in some rodents. Current advances in the CRISPR-based gene-editing domain, such as modified Cas variants and delivery approaches have optimized its application to treat blindness. In this review, recent progress and challenges of the CRISPR-Cas system have been discussed to cure blindness and its prospects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irshad Ahmad
- Department of Bioengineering, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; ; Tel.: +966-13-8608393
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Membranes and Water Security, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lee JH, Oh HK, Choi BS, Lee HH, Lee KJ, Kim UG, Lee J, Lee H, Lee GS, Ahn SJ, Han JP, Kim S, Yeom SC, Song DW. Genome editing-mediated knock-in of therapeutic genes ameliorates the disease phenotype in a model of hemophilia. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:551-562. [PMID: 36090746 PMCID: PMC9403902 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Recently, clinical trials of adeno-associated virus-mediated replacement therapy have suggested long-term therapeutic effects for several genetic diseases of the liver, including hemophilia. However, there remain concerns regarding decreased therapeutic effects when the liver is regenerated or when physiological proliferation occurs. Although genome editing using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/Cas9 system provides an opportunity to solve this problem, low knock-in efficiency may limit its application for therapeutically relevant expression. Here, we identified a novel gene, APOC3, in which a strong promoter facilitated the expression of knocked-in genes in hepatocytes. We also investigated the effects of APOC3 editing using a small Cas9 protein derived from Campylobacter jejuni (CjCas9) in a hemophilic model. We demonstrated that adeno-associated virus-mediated delivery of CjCas9 and donor led to moderate levels of human factor 9 expression in APOC3-humanized mice. Moreover, knock-in-driven expression induced substantial recovery of clotting function in mice with hemophilia B. There was no evidence of off-target editing in vitro or in vivo. Collectively, our findings demonstrated therapeutically relevant expression using a precise and efficient APOC3-editing platform, providing insights into the development of further long-term therapeutics for diverse monogenic liver diseases.
Collapse
|
33
|
Marrone L, Marchi PM, Azzouz M. Circumventing the packaging limit of AAV-mediated gene replacement therapy for neurological disorders. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2022; 22:1163-1176. [PMID: 34904932 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2012148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gene therapy provides the exciting opportunity of a curative single treatment for devastating diseases, eradicating the need for chronic medication. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are among the most attractive vector carriers for gene replacement in vivo. Yet, despite the success of recent AAV-based clinical trials, the clinical use of these vectors has been limited. For instance, the AAV packaging capacity is restricted to ~4.7 kb, making it a substantial challenge to deliver large gene products. AREAS COVERED In this review, we explore established and emerging strategies that circumvent the packaging limit of AAVs to make them effective vehicles for gene replacement therapy of monogenic disorders, with a particular focus on diseases affecting the nervous system. We report historical references, design remarks, as well as strengths and weaknesses of these approaches. We additionally discuss examples of neurological disorders for which such strategies have been attempted. EXPERT OPINION The field of AAV-gene therapy has experienced enormous advancements in the last decade. However, there is still ample space for improvement aimed at overcoming existing challenges that are slowing down the progressive trajectory of this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Marrone
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paolo M Marchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Mimoun Azzouz
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Getz AM, Ducros M, Breillat C, Lampin-Saint-Amaux A, Daburon S, François U, Nowacka A, Fernández-Monreal M, Hosy E, Lanore F, Zieger HL, Sainlos M, Humeau Y, Choquet D. High-resolution imaging and manipulation of endogenous AMPA receptor surface mobility during synaptic plasticity and learning. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm5298. [PMID: 35895810 PMCID: PMC9328687 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm5298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of synaptic neurotransmitter receptor content is a fundamental mechanism for tuning synaptic efficacy during experience-dependent plasticity and behavioral adaptation. However, experimental approaches to track and modify receptor movements in integrated experimental systems are limited. Exploiting AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) as a model, we generated a knock-in mouse expressing the biotin acceptor peptide (AP) tag on the GluA2 extracellular N-terminal. Cell-specific introduction of biotin ligase allows the use of monovalent or tetravalent avidin variants to respectively monitor or manipulate the surface mobility of endogenous AMPAR containing biotinylated AP-GluA2 in neuronal subsets. AMPAR immobilization precluded the expression of long-term potentiation and formation of contextual fear memory, allowing target-specific control of the expression of synaptic plasticity and animal behavior. The AP tag knock-in model offers unprecedented access to resolve and control the spatiotemporal dynamics of endogenous receptors, and opens new avenues to study the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela M. Getz
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Mathieu Ducros
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, Bordeaux Imaging Center (BIC), UAR 3420, US 4, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Christelle Breillat
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Aurélie Lampin-Saint-Amaux
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Sophie Daburon
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Urielle François
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Agata Nowacka
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Mónica Fernández-Monreal
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, Bordeaux Imaging Center (BIC), UAR 3420, US 4, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Eric Hosy
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Frédéric Lanore
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Hanna L. Zieger
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Matthieu Sainlos
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Yann Humeau
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Daniel Choquet
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience (IINS), UMR 5297, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, Bordeaux Imaging Center (BIC), UAR 3420, US 4, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Coorey B, Haase F, Ellaway C, Clarke A, Lisowski L, Gold WA. Gene Editing and Rett Syndrome: Does It Make the Cut? CRISPR J 2022; 5:490-499. [PMID: 35881862 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2022.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurogenetic disorder caused by pathogenic variants of the Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. The RTT is characterized by apparent normal early development followed by regression of communicative and fine motor skills. Comorbidities include epilepsy, severe cognitive impairment, and autonomic and motor dysfunction. Despite almost 60 clinical trials and the promise of a gene therapy, no cure has yet emerged with treatment remaining symptomatic. Advances in understanding RTT has provided insight into the complexity and exquisite control of MECP2 expression, where loss of expression leads to RTT and overexpression leads to MECP2 duplication syndrome. Therapy development requires regulated expression that matches the spatiotemporal endogenous expression of MECP2 in the brain. Gene editing has revolutionized gene therapy and promises an exciting strategy for many incurable monogenic disorders, including RTT, by editing the native locus and retaining endogenous gene expression. Here, we review the literature on the currently available editing technologies and discuss their limitations and applicability to the treatment of RTT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronte Coorey
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Molecular Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Kid's Research, Westmead, Australia.,Kids Neuroscience Centre, Kids Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, Australia
| | - Florencia Haase
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Molecular Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Kid's Research, Westmead, Australia.,Kids Neuroscience Centre, Kids Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, Australia
| | - Carolyn Ellaway
- Genetic Metabolic Disorders Service, Sydney Children's Hospital Network Sydney, Westmead, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Angus Clarke
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Leszek Lisowski
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia.,Vector and Genome Engineering Facility, Children's Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia.,Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wendy A Gold
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Molecular Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Kid's Research, Westmead, Australia.,Kids Neuroscience Centre, Kids Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Children's Medical Research Institute, Westmead, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Droogers WJ, Willems J, MacGillavry HD, de Jong APH. Duplex Labeling and Manipulation of Neuronal Proteins Using Sequential CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing. eNeuro 2022; 9:ENEURO.0056-22.2022. [PMID: 35851300 PMCID: PMC9333357 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0056-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knock-in methods enable the labeling of individual endogenous proteins to faithfully determine their spatiotemporal distribution in cells. However, reliable multiplexing of knock-in events in neurons remains challenging because of cross talk between editing events. To overcome this, we developed conditional activation of knock-in expression (CAKE), allowing efficient, flexible, and accurate multiplex genome editing in rat neurons. To diminish cross talk, CAKE is based on sequential, recombinase-driven guide RNA (gRNA) expression to control the timing of genomic integration of each donor sequence. We show that CAKE is broadly applicable to co-label various endogenous proteins, including cytoskeletal proteins, synaptic scaffolds, ion channels and neurotransmitter receptor subunits. To take full advantage of CAKE, we resolved the nanoscale co-distribution of endogenous synaptic proteins using super-resolution microscopy, demonstrating that their co-organization depends on synapse size. Finally, we introduced inducible dimerization modules, providing acute control over synaptic receptor dynamics in living neurons. These experiments highlight the potential of CAKE to reveal new biological insight. Altogether, CAKE is a versatile method for multiplex protein labeling that enables the detection, localization, and manipulation of endogenous proteins in neurons.Significance StatementAccurate localization and manipulation of endogenous proteins is essential to unravel neuronal function. While labeling of individual proteins is achievable with existing gene editing techniques, methods to label multiple proteins in neurons are limiting. We introduce a new CRISPR/Cas9 strategy, CAKE, achieving faithful duplex protein labeling using sequential editing of genes. We use CAKE to visualize the co-localization of essential neuronal proteins, including cytoskeleton components, ion channels and synaptic scaffolds. Using super-resolution microscopy, we demonstrate that the co-organization of synaptic scaffolds and neurotransmitter receptors scales with synapse size. Finally, we acutely modulate the dynamics of synaptic receptors using labeling with inducible dimerization domains. Thus, CAKE mediates accurate duplex endogenous protein labeling and manipulation to address biological questions in neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wouter J Droogers
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jelmer Willems
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Harold D MacGillavry
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Arthur P H de Jong
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the developed world. In recent decades, extraordinary effort has been devoted to defining the molecular and pathophysiological characteristics of the diseased heart and vasculature. Mouse models have been especially powerful in illuminating the complex signaling pathways, genetic and epigenetic regulatory circuits, and multicellular interactions that underlie cardiovascular disease. The advent of CRISPR genome editing has ushered in a new era of cardiovascular research and possibilities for genetic correction of disease. Next-generation sequencing technologies have greatly accelerated the identification of disease-causing mutations, and advances in gene editing have enabled the rapid modeling of these mutations in mice and patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells. The ability to correct the genetic drivers of cardiovascular disease through delivery of gene editing components in vivo, while still facing challenges, represents an exciting therapeutic frontier. In this review, we provide an overview of cardiovascular disease mechanisms and the potential applications of CRISPR genome editing for disease modeling and correction. We also discuss the extent to which mice can faithfully model cardiovascular disease and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Eric N Olson
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Provasek VE, Mitra J, Malojirao VH, Hegde ML. DNA Double-Strand Breaks as Pathogenic Lesions in Neurological Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094653. [PMID: 35563044 PMCID: PMC9099445 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The damage and repair of DNA is a continuous process required to maintain genomic integrity. DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are the most lethal type of DNA damage and require timely repair by dedicated machinery. DSB repair is uniquely important to nondividing, post-mitotic cells of the central nervous system (CNS). These long-lived cells must rely on the intact genome for a lifetime while maintaining high metabolic activity. When these mechanisms fail, the loss of certain neuronal populations upset delicate neural networks required for higher cognition and disrupt vital motor functions. Mammalian cells engage with several different strategies to recognize and repair chromosomal DSBs based on the cellular context and cell cycle phase, including homologous recombination (HR)/homology-directed repair (HDR), microhomology-mediated end-joining (MMEJ), and the classic non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ). In addition to these repair pathways, a growing body of evidence has emphasized the importance of DNA damage response (DDR) signaling, and the involvement of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) family proteins in the repair of neuronal DSBs, many of which are linked to age-associated neurological disorders. In this review, we describe contemporary research characterizing the mechanistic roles of these non-canonical proteins in neuronal DSB repair, as well as their contributions to the etiopathogenesis of selected common neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent E. Provasek
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (V.E.P.); (V.H.M.)
- College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Joy Mitra
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (V.E.P.); (V.H.M.)
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (M.L.H.)
| | - Vikas H. Malojirao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (V.E.P.); (V.H.M.)
| | - Muralidhar L. Hegde
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (V.E.P.); (V.H.M.)
- College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Department of Neurosciences, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 11021, USA
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (M.L.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Chater TE, Goda Y. The Shaping of AMPA Receptor Surface Distribution by Neuronal Activity. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2022; 14:833782. [PMID: 35387308 PMCID: PMC8979068 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2022.833782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotransmission is critically dependent on the number, position, and composition of receptor proteins on the postsynaptic neuron. Of these, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptors (AMPARs) are responsible for the majority of postsynaptic depolarization at excitatory mammalian synapses following glutamate release. AMPARs are continually trafficked to and from the cell surface, and once at the surface, AMPARs laterally diffuse in and out of synaptic domains. Moreover, the subcellular distribution of AMPARs is shaped by patterns of activity, as classically demonstrated by the synaptic insertion or removal of AMPARs following the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), respectively. Crucially, there are many subtleties in the regulation of AMPARs, and exactly how local and global synaptic activity drives the trafficking and retention of synaptic AMPARs of different subtypes continues to attract attention. Here we will review how activity can have differential effects on AMPAR distribution and trafficking along with its subunit composition and phosphorylation state, and we highlight some of the controversies and remaining questions. As the AMPAR field is extensive, to say the least, this review will focus primarily on cellular and molecular studies in the hippocampus. We apologise to authors whose work could not be cited directly owing to space limitations.
Collapse
|
40
|
Affiliation(s)
- Yanjiang Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nathan J. VanDusen
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Catalina E. Butler
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Qing Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Justin S. King
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - William T. Pu
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Wilson EA, Mao T, Zhong H. Labeling Endogenous Proteins Using CRISPR-mediated Insertion of Exon (CRISPIE). Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4343. [PMID: 35592602 PMCID: PMC8918219 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR/Cas9 technology has transformed our ability to edit eukaryotic genomes. Despite this breakthrough, it remains challenging to precisely knock-in large DNA sequences, such as those encoding a fluorescent protein, for labeling or modifying a target protein in post-mitotic cells. Previous efforts focusing on sequence insertion to the protein coding sequence often suffer from insertions/deletions (INDELs) resulting from the efficient non-homologous end joining pathway (NHEJ). To overcome this limitation, we have developed CRISPR-mediated insertion of exon (CRISPIE). CRISPIE circumvents INDELs and other editing errors by inserting a designer exon flanked by adjacent intron sequences into an appropriate intronic location of the targeted gene. Because INDELs at the insertion junction can be spliced out, "CRISPIEd" genes produce precisely edited mRNA transcripts that are virtually error-free. In part due to the elimination of INDELs, high-efficiency labeling can be achieved in vivo. CRISPIE is compatible with both N- and C-terminal labels, and with all common transfection methods. Importantly, CRISPIE allows for later removal of the protein modification by including exogenous single-guide RNA (sgRNA) sites in the intronic region of the donor module. This protocol provides the detailed CRISPIE methodology, using endogenous labeling of β-actin in human U-2 OS cells with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) as an example. When combined with the appropriate gene delivery methods, the same methodology can be applied to label post-mitotic neurons in culture and in vivo. This methodology can also be readily adapted for use in other gene editing contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evan A. Wilson
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Tianyi Mao
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Haining Zhong
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA,
*For correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Sneve MA, Piatkevich KD. Towards a Comprehensive Optical Connectome at Single Synapse Resolution via Expansion Microscopy. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2022; 13:754814. [PMID: 35115916 PMCID: PMC8803729 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.754814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Mapping and determining the molecular identity of individual synapses is a crucial step towards the comprehensive reconstruction of neuronal circuits. Throughout the history of neuroscience, microscopy has been a key technology for mapping brain circuits. However, subdiffraction size and high density of synapses in brain tissue make this process extremely challenging. Electron microscopy (EM), with its nanoscale resolution, offers one approach to this challenge yet comes with many practical limitations, and to date has only been used in very small samples such as C. elegans, tadpole larvae, fruit fly brain, or very small pieces of mammalian brain tissue. Moreover, EM datasets require tedious data tracing. Light microscopy in combination with tissue expansion via physical magnification-known as expansion microscopy (ExM)-offers an alternative approach to this problem. ExM enables nanoscale imaging of large biological samples, which in combination with multicolor neuronal and synaptic labeling offers the unprecedented capability to trace and map entire neuronal circuits in fully automated mode. Recent advances in new methods for synaptic staining as well as new types of optical molecular probes with superior stability, specificity, and brightness provide new modalities for studying brain circuits. Here we review advanced methods and molecular probes for fluorescence staining of the synapses in the brain that are compatible with currently available expansion microscopy techniques. In particular, we will describe genetically encoded probes for synaptic labeling in mice, zebrafish, Drosophila fruit flies, and C. elegans, which enable the visualization of post-synaptic scaffolds and receptors, presynaptic terminals and vesicles, and even a snapshot of the synaptic activity itself. We will address current methods for applying these probes in ExM experiments, as well as appropriate vectors for the delivery of these molecular constructs. In addition, we offer experimental considerations and limitations for using each of these tools as well as our perspective on emerging tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madison A. Sneve
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Kiryl D. Piatkevich
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Narayanaswami P, Živković S. Molecular and Genetic Therapies. Neuromuscul Disord 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-71317-7.00011-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
44
|
Emerging strategies for the genetic dissection of gene functions, cell types, and neural circuits in the mammalian brain. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:422-435. [PMID: 34561609 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01292-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian brain is composed of a large number of highly diverse cell types with different molecular, anatomical, and functional features. Distinct cellular identities are generated during development under the regulation of intricate genetic programs and manifested through unique combinations of gene expression. Recent advancements in our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the assembly, function, and pathology of the brain circuitry depend on the invention and application of genetic strategies that engage intrinsic gene regulatory mechanisms. Here we review the strategies for gene regulation on DNA, RNA, and protein levels and their applications in cell type targeting and neural circuit dissection. We highlight newly emerged strategies and emphasize the importance of combinatorial approaches. We also discuss the potential caveats and pitfalls in current methods and suggest future prospects to improve their comprehensiveness and versatility.
Collapse
|
45
|
Bukina ES, Kondratyev NV, Kozin SV, Golimbet VE, Artyuhov AS, Dashinimaev EB. SLC6A1 and Neuropsychiatric Diseases: The Role of Mutations and Prospects for Treatment with Genome Editing Systems. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421040048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
46
|
Melander JB, Nayebi A, Jongbloets BC, Fortin DA, Qin M, Ganguli S, Mao T, Zhong H. Distinct in vivo dynamics of excitatory synapses onto cortical pyramidal neurons and parvalbumin-positive interneurons. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109972. [PMID: 34758304 PMCID: PMC8631347 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cortical function relies on the balanced activation of excitatory and inhibitory neurons. However, little is known about the organization and dynamics of shaft excitatory synapses onto cortical inhibitory interneurons. Here, we use the excitatory postsynaptic marker PSD-95, fluorescently labeled at endogenous levels, as a proxy for excitatory synapses onto layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons and parvalbumin-positive (PV+) interneurons in the barrel cortex of adult mice. Longitudinal in vivo imaging under baseline conditions reveals that, although synaptic weights in both neuronal types are log-normally distributed, synapses onto PV+ neurons are less heterogeneous and more stable. Markov model analyses suggest that the synaptic weight distribution is set intrinsically by ongoing cell-type-specific dynamics, and substantial changes are due to accumulated gradual changes. Synaptic weight dynamics are multiplicative, i.e., changes scale with weights, although PV+ synapses also exhibit an additive component. These results reveal that cell-type-specific processes govern cortical synaptic strengths and dynamics. Melander et al. use a genetic strategy to visualize excitatory neuronal connections that cannot be inferred from morphology, and they monitor how the connections change over weeks in mice. They find distinct characteristics between synapses onto cells that “suppress” brain activity and those onto cells that “excite” brain activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua B Melander
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Neurosciences PhD Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Aran Nayebi
- Neurosciences PhD Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Bart C Jongbloets
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Dale A Fortin
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Maozhen Qin
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Surya Ganguli
- Department of Applied Physics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Tianyi Mao
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
| | - Haining Zhong
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hu J, Bourne RA, McGrath BC, Lin A, Pei Z, Cavener DR. Co-opting regulation bypass repair as a gene-correction strategy for monogenic diseases. Mol Ther 2021; 29:3274-3292. [PMID: 33892188 PMCID: PMC8571108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
With the development of CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene-editing technologies, correction of disease-causing mutations has become possible. However, current gene-correction strategies preclude mutation repair in post-mitotic cells of human tissues, and a unique repair strategy must be designed and tested for each and every mutation that may occur in a gene. We have developed a novel gene-correction strategy, co-opting regulation bypass repair (CRBR), which can repair a spectrum of mutations in mitotic or post-mitotic cells and tissues. CRBR utilizes the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway to insert a coding sequence (CDS) and transcription/translation terminators targeted upstream of any CDS mutation and downstream of the transcriptional promoter. CRBR results in simultaneous co-option of the endogenous regulatory region and bypass of the genetic defect. We validated the CRBR strategy for human gene therapy by rescuing a mouse model of Wolcott-Rallison syndrome (WRS) with permanent neonatal diabetes caused by either a large deletion or a nonsense mutation in the PERK (EIF2AK3) gene. Additionally, we integrated a CRBR GFP-terminator cassette downstream of the human insulin promoter in cadaver pancreatic islets of Langerhans, which resulted in insulin promoter regulated expression of GFP, demonstrating the potential utility of CRBR in human tissue gene repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjie Hu
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Rebecca A Bourne
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Barbara C McGrath
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Alice Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Zifei Pei
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Douglas R Cavener
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Self-inactivating, all-in-one AAV vectors for precision Cas9 genome editing via homology-directed repair in vivo. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6267. [PMID: 34725353 PMCID: PMC8560862 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26518-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are important delivery platforms for therapeutic genome editing but are severely constrained by cargo limits. Simultaneous delivery of multiple vectors can limit dose and efficacy and increase safety risks. Here, we describe single-vector, ~4.8-kb AAV platforms that express Nme2Cas9 and either two sgRNAs for segmental deletions, or a single sgRNA with a homology-directed repair (HDR) template. We also use anti-CRISPR proteins to enable production of vectors that self-inactivate via Nme2Cas9 cleavage. We further introduce a nanopore-based sequencing platform that is designed to profile rAAV genomes and serves as a quality control measure for vector homogeneity. We demonstrate that these platforms can effectively treat two disease models [type I hereditary tyrosinemia (HT-I) and mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS-I)] in mice by HDR-based correction of the disease allele. These results will enable the engineering of single-vector AAVs that can achieve diverse therapeutic genome editing outcomes. Long-term expression of Cas9 following precision genome editing in vivo may lead to undesirable consequences. Here we show that a single-vector, self-inactivating AAV system containing Cas9 nuclease, guide, and DNA donor can use homology-directed repair to correct disease mutations in vivo.
Collapse
|
49
|
Coorey BA, Gold WA. Breaking Boundaries in the Brain-Advances in Editing Tools for Neurogenetic Disorders. Front Genome Ed 2021; 3:623519. [PMID: 34713252 PMCID: PMC8525368 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2021.623519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Monogenic neurological disorders are devastating, affecting hundreds of millions of people globally and present a substantial burden to individuals, carers, and healthcare systems. These disorders are predominantly caused by inherited or de novo variants that result in impairments to nervous system development, neurodegeneration, or impaired neuronal function. No cure exists for these disorders with many being refractory to medication. However, since monogenic neurological disorders have a single causal factor, they are also excellent targets for innovative, therapies such as gene therapy. Despite this promise, gene transfer therapies are limited in that they are only suitable for neurogenetic disorders that fit within the technological reach of these therapies. The limitations include the size of the coding region of the gene, the regulatory control of expression (dosage sensitivity), the mode of expression (e.g., dominant negative) and access to target cells. Gene editing therapies are an alternative strategy to gene transfer therapy as they have the potential of overcoming some of these hurdles, enabling the retention of physiological expression of the gene and offers precision medicine-based therapies where individual variants can be repaired. This review focusses on the existing gene editing technologies for neurogenetic disorders and how these propose to overcome the challenges common to neurogenetic disorders with gene transfer therapies as well as their own challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronte A Coorey
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Kid's Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Kids Neuroscience Centre, Kids Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Wendy A Gold
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Kid's Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Kids Neuroscience Centre, Kids Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Neurobiology, The Children's Medical Research Institute, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kjaergaard M, Petersen NC, Sørensen JB, Takeuchi T. Introducing the special issue on "Proteins and Circuits in Memory". Eur J Neurosci 2021; 54:6691-6695. [PMID: 34664317 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Kjaergaard
- Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, The Danish Research Institute for Translational Neuroscience (DANDRITE), Aarhus, Denmark.,Center for Proteins in Memory - PROMEMO, Danish National Research Foundation, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nicolas Caesar Petersen
- Centre for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Tomonori Takeuchi
- Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, The Danish Research Institute for Translational Neuroscience (DANDRITE), Aarhus, Denmark.,Center for Proteins in Memory - PROMEMO, Danish National Research Foundation, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|