1
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Cao X, Huang S, Wagner MM, Cho YT, Chiu DC, Wartchow KM, Lazarian A, McIntire LB, Smolka MB, Baskin JM. A phosphorylation-controlled switch confers cell cycle-dependent protein relocalization. Nat Cell Biol 2024:10.1038/s41556-024-01495-8. [PMID: 39209962 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01495-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Tools for acute manipulation of protein localization enable elucidation of spatiotemporally defined functions, but their reliance on exogenous triggers can interfere with cell physiology. This limitation is particularly apparent for studying mitosis, whose highly choreographed events are sensitive to perturbations. Here we exploit the serendipitous discovery of a phosphorylation-controlled, cell cycle-dependent localization change of the adaptor protein PLEKHA5 to develop a system for mitosis-specific protein recruitment to the plasma membrane that requires no exogenous stimulus. Mitosis-enabled anchor-away/recruiter system comprises an engineered, 15 kDa module derived from PLEKHA5 capable of recruiting functional protein cargoes to the plasma membrane during mitosis, either through direct fusion or via GFP-GFP nanobody interaction. Applications of the mitosis-enabled anchor-away/recruiter system include both knock sideways to rapidly extract proteins from their native localizations during mitosis and conditional recruitment of lipid-metabolizing enzymes for mitosis-selective editing of plasma membrane lipid content, without the need for exogenous triggers or perturbative synchronization methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofu Cao
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Shiying Huang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Mateusz M Wagner
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Yuan-Ting Cho
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Din-Chi Chiu
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - Artur Lazarian
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Marcus B Smolka
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jeremy M Baskin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
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2
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Cao X, Huang S, Wagner MM, Cho YT, Chiu DC, Wartchow KM, Lazarian A, McIntire LB, Smolka MB, Baskin JM. A phosphorylation-controlled switch confers cell cycle-dependent protein relocalization. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.05.597552. [PMID: 38895347 PMCID: PMC11185714 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.05.597552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Tools for acute manipulation of protein localization enable elucidation of spatiotemporally defined functions, but their reliance on exogenous triggers can interfere with cell physiology. This limitation is particularly apparent for studying mitosis, whose highly choreographed events are sensitive to perturbations. Here we exploit the serendipitous discovery of a phosphorylation-controlled, cell cycle-dependent localization change of the adaptor protein PLEKHA5 to develop a system for mitosis-specific protein recruitment to the plasma membrane that requires no exogenous stimulus. Mitosis-enabled Anchor-away/Recruiter System (MARS) comprises an engineered, 15-kDa module derived from PLEKHA5 capable of recruiting functional protein cargoes to the plasma membrane during mitosis, either through direct fusion or via GFP-GFP nanobody interaction. Applications of MARS include both knock sideways to rapidly extract proteins from their native localizations during mitosis and conditional recruitment of lipid-metabolizing enzymes for mitosis-selective editing of plasma membrane lipid content, without the need for exogenous triggers or perturbative synchronization methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofu Cao
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
| | - Shiying Huang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
| | - Mateusz M. Wagner
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
| | - Yuan-Ting Cho
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
| | - Din-Chi Chiu
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
| | - Krista M. Wartchow
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States, 10065
| | - Artur Lazarian
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States, 10065
| | - Laura Beth McIntire
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States, 10065
| | - Marcus B. Smolka
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
| | - Jeremy M. Baskin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States, 14853
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3
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Yang S, Shi Z. Quantification of membrane geometry and protein sorting on cell membrane protrusions using fluorescence microscopy. Methods Enzymol 2024; 700:385-411. [PMID: 38971608 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2024.01.023] [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: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Plasma membranes are flexible and can exhibit numerous shapes below the optical diffraction limit. The shape of cell periphery can either induce or be a product of local protein density changes, encoding numerous cellular functions. However, quantifying membrane curvature and the ensuing sorting of proteins in live cells remains technically demanding. Here, we demonstrate the use of simple widefield fluorescence microscopy to study the geometrical properties (i.e., radius, length, and number) of thin membrane protrusions. Importantly, the quantification of protrusion radius establishes a platform for studying the curvature preferences of membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilong Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Zheng Shi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States.
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4
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Fenelon KD, Krause J, Koromila T. Opticool: Cutting-edge transgenic optical tools. PLoS Genet 2024; 20:e1011208. [PMID: 38517915 PMCID: PMC10959397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011208] [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: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Only a few short decades have passed since the sequencing of GFP, yet the modern repertoire of transgenically encoded optical tools implies an exponential proliferation of ever improving constructions to interrogate the subcellular environment. A myriad of tags for labeling proteins, RNA, or DNA have arisen in the last few decades, facilitating unprecedented visualization of subcellular components and processes. Development of a broad array of modern genetically encoded sensors allows real-time, in vivo detection of molecule levels, pH, forces, enzyme activity, and other subcellular and extracellular phenomena in ever expanding contexts. Optogenetic, genetically encoded optically controlled manipulation systems have gained traction in the biological research community and facilitate single-cell, real-time modulation of protein function in vivo in ever broadening, novel applications. While this field continues to explosively expand, references are needed to assist scientists seeking to use and improve these transgenic devices in new and exciting ways to interrogate development and disease. In this review, we endeavor to highlight the state and trajectory of the field of in vivo transgenic optical tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli D. Fenelon
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
| | - Julia Krause
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
| | - Theodora Koromila
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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5
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Benman W, Huang Z, Iyengar P, Wilde D, Mumford TR, Bugaj LJ. A temperature-inducible protein module for control of mammalian cell fate. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.19.581019. [PMID: 38464222 PMCID: PMC10925237 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.19.581019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Inducible protein switches are used throughout the biosciences to allow on-demand control of proteins in response to chemical or optical inputs. However, these inducers either cannot be controlled with precision in space and time or cannot be applied in optically dense settings, limiting their application in tissues and organisms. Here we introduce a protein module whose active state can be reversibly toggled with a small change in temperature, a stimulus that is both penetrant and dynamic. This protein, called Melt (Membrane localization through temperature), exists as a monomer in the cytoplasm at elevated temperatures but both oligomerizes and translocates to the plasma membrane when temperature is lowered. Using custom devices for rapid and high-throughput temperature control during live-cell microscopy, we find that the original Melt variant fully switches states between 28-32°C, and state changes can be observed within minutes of temperature changes. Melt was highly modular, permitting thermal control over diverse intracellular processes including signaling, proteolysis, and nuclear shuttling through straightforward end-to-end fusions with no further engineering. Melt was also highly tunable, giving rise to a library of Melt variants with switch point temperatures ranging from 30-40°C. The variants with higher switch points allowed control of molecular circuits between 37°C-41°C, a well-tolerated range for mammalian cells. Finally, Melt could thermally regulate important cell decisions over this range, including cytoskeletal rearrangement and apoptosis. Thus Melt represents a versatile thermogenetic module that provides straightforward, temperature-based, real-time control of mammalian cells with broad potential for biotechnology and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Benman
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Zikang Huang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Pavan Iyengar
- Department of Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Delaney Wilde
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Thomas R. Mumford
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lukasz J. Bugaj
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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6
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Nagasawa Y, Ueda HH, Kawabata H, Murakoshi H. LOV2-based photoactivatable CaMKII and its application to single synapses: Local Optogenetics. Biophys Physicobiol 2023; 20:e200027. [PMID: 38496236 PMCID: PMC10941968 DOI: 10.2142/biophysico.bppb-v20.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques offer a high spatiotemporal resolution to manipulate cellular activity. For instance, Channelrhodopsin-2 with global light illumination is the most widely used to control neuronal activity at the cellular level. However, the cellular scale is much larger than the diffraction limit of light (<1 μm) and does not fully exploit the features of the "high spatial resolution" of optogenetics. For instance, until recently, there were no optogenetic methods to induce synaptic plasticity at the level of single synapses. To address this, we developed an optogenetic tool named photoactivatable CaMKII (paCaMKII) by fusing a light-sensitive domain (LOV2) to CaMKIIα, which is a protein abundantly expressed in neurons of the cerebrum and hippocampus and essential for synaptic plasticity. Combining photoactivatable CaMKII with two-photon excitation, we successfully activated it in single spines, inducing synaptic plasticity (long-term potentiation) in hippocampal neurons. We refer to this method as "Local Optogenetics", which involves the local activation of molecules and measurement of cellular responses. In this review, we will discuss the characteristics of LOV2, the recent development of its derivatives, and the development and application of paCaMKII.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaro Nagasawa
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Hiromi H Ueda
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Haruka Kawabata
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Hideji Murakoshi
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
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7
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Kuznetsov IA, Berlew EE, Glantz ST, Hannanta-Anan P, Chow BY. Computational framework for single-cell spatiotemporal dynamics of optogenetic membrane recruitment. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100245. [PMID: 35880018 PMCID: PMC9308134 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100245] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We describe a modular computational framework for analyzing cell-wide spatiotemporal signaling dynamics in single-cell microscopy experiments that accounts for the experiment-specific geometric and diffractive complexities that arise from heterogeneous cell morphologies and optical instrumentation. Inputs are unique cell geometries and protein concentrations derived from confocal stacks and spatiotemporally varying environmental stimuli. After simulating the system with a model of choice, the output is convolved with the microscope point-spread function for direct comparison with the observable image. We experimentally validate this approach in single cells with BcLOV4, an optogenetic membrane recruitment system for versatile control over cell signaling, using a three-dimensional non-linear finite element model with all parameters experimentally derived. The simulations recapitulate observed subcellular and cell-to-cell variability in BcLOV4 signaling, allowing for inter-experimental differences of cellular and instrumentation origins to be elucidated and resolved for improved interpretive robustness. This single-cell approach will enhance optogenetics and spatiotemporally resolved signaling studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan A. Kuznetsov
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Erin E. Berlew
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Spencer T. Glantz
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Pimkhuan Hannanta-Anan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand
| | - Brian Y. Chow
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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8
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A chemogenetic platform for controlling plasma membrane signaling and synthetic signal oscillation. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 29:1446-1464.e10. [PMID: 35835118 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chemogenetic methods enabling the rapid translocation of specific proteins to the plasma membrane (PM) in a single protein-single ligand manner are useful tools in cell biology. We recently developed a technique, in which proteins fused to an Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase (eDHFR) variant carrying N-terminal hexalysine residues are recruited from the cytoplasm to the PM using the synthetic myristoyl-d-Cys-tethered trimethoprim (mDcTMP) ligand. However, this system achieved PM-specific translocation only when the eDHFR tag was fused to the N terminus of proteins, thereby limiting its application. In this report, we engineered a universal PM-targeting tag for mDcTMP-induced protein translocation by grafting the hexalysine motif into an intra-loop region of eDHFR. We demonstrate the broad applicability of the new loop-engineered eDHFR tag and mDcTMP pair for conditional PM recruitment and activation of various tag-fused signaling proteins with different fusion configurations and for reversibly and repeatedly controlling protein localization to generate synthetic signal oscillations.
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9
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Temperature-responsive optogenetic probes of cell signaling. Nat Chem Biol 2022; 18:152-160. [PMID: 34937907 PMCID: PMC9252025 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-021-00917-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We describe single-component optogenetic probes whose activation dynamics depend on both light and temperature. We used the BcLOV4 photoreceptor to stimulate Ras and phosphatidyl inositol-3-kinase signaling in mammalian cells, allowing activation over a large dynamic range with low basal levels. Surprisingly, we found that BcLOV4 membrane translocation dynamics could be tuned by both light and temperature such that membrane localization spontaneously decayed at elevated temperatures despite constant illumination. Quantitative modeling predicted BcLOV4 activation dynamics across a range of light and temperature inputs and thus provides an experimental roadmap for BcLOV4-based probes. BcLOV4 drove strong and stable signal activation in both zebrafish and fly cells, and thermal inactivation provided a means to multiplex distinct blue-light sensitive tools in individual mammalian cells. BcLOV4 is thus a versatile photosensor with unique light and temperature sensitivity that enables straightforward generation of broadly applicable optogenetic tools.
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10
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Abstract
Optogenetics combines light and genetics to enable precise control of living cells, tissues, and organisms with tailored functions. Optogenetics has the advantages of noninvasiveness, rapid responsiveness, tunable reversibility, and superior spatiotemporal resolution. Following the initial discovery of microbial opsins as light-actuated ion channels, a plethora of naturally occurring or engineered photoreceptors or photosensitive domains that respond to light at varying wavelengths has ushered in the next chapter of optogenetics. Through protein engineering and synthetic biology approaches, genetically-encoded photoswitches can be modularly engineered into protein scaffolds or host cells to control a myriad of biological processes, as well as to enable behavioral control and disease intervention in vivo. Here, we summarize these optogenetic tools on the basis of their fundamental photochemical properties to better inform the chemical basis and design principles. We also highlight exemplary applications of opsin-free optogenetics in dissecting cellular physiology (designated "optophysiology"), and describe the current progress, as well as future trends, in wireless optogenetics, which enables remote interrogation of physiological processes with minimal invasiveness. This review is anticipated to spark novel thoughts on engineering next-generation optogenetic tools and devices that promise to accelerate both basic and translational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Tan
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States.,Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Lian He
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Yun Huang
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States
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11
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Berlew EE, Yamada K, Kuznetsov IA, Rand EA, Ochs CC, Jaber Z, Gardner KH, Chow BY. Designing Single-Component Optogenetic Membrane Recruitment Systems: The Rho-Family GTPase Signaling Toolbox. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:515-521. [PMID: 34978789 PMCID: PMC8867532 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
We describe the efficient creation of single-component optogenetic tools for membrane recruitment-based signaling perturbation using BcLOV4 technology. The workflow requires two plasmids to create six different domain arrangements of the dynamic membrane binder BcLOV4, a fluorescent reporter, and the fused signaling protein of interest. Screening of this limited set of genetic constructs for expression characteristics and dynamic translocation in response to one pulse of light is sufficient to identify viable signaling control tools. The reliability of this streamlined approach is demonstrated by the creation of an optogenetic Cdc42 GTPase and Rac1-activating Tiam1 GEF protein, which together with our other recently reported technologies, completes a toolbox for spatiotemporally precise induction of Rho-family GTPase signaling at the GEF or GTPase level, for driving filopodial protrusions, lamellipodial protrusions, and cell contractility, respectively mediated by Cdc42, Rac1, and RhoA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E. Berlew
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Keisuke Yamada
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA,Department of Electrical Engineering and Bioscience, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan 169-8050
| | - Ivan A. Kuznetsov
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA
| | - Eleanor A. Rand
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA,Department of Systems Biology, Harvard University Medical School, Boston MA 02115, USA
| | - Chandler C. Ochs
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA,McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Zaynab Jaber
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA,Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Kevin H. Gardner
- Structural Biology Initiative, CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, New York, NY 10031, USA,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, City College of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA,Ph.D. Programs in Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Brian Y. Chow
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104, USA,Correspondence: ; 210 S 33rd Street, Suite 240, Philadelphia, PA 19104; (+1) (215) 898-5159
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12
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Berlew EE, Kuznetsov IA, Yamada K, Bugaj LJ, Boerckel JD, Chow BY. Single-Component Optogenetic Tools for Inducible RhoA GTPase Signaling. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 5:e2100810. [PMID: 34288599 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202100810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic tools are created to control RhoA GTPase, a central regulator of actin organization and actomyosin contractility. RhoA GTPase, or its upstream activator ARHGEF11, is fused to BcLOV4, a photoreceptor that can be dynamically recruited to the plasma membrane by a light-regulated protein-lipid electrostatic interaction with the inner leaflet. Direct membrane recruitment of these proteins induces potent contractile signaling sufficient to separate adherens junctions with as little as one pulse of blue light. Induced cytoskeletal morphology changes are dependent on the alignment of the spatially patterned stimulation with the underlying cell polarization. RhoA-mediated cytoskeletal activation drives yes-associated protein (YAP) nuclear localization within minutes and consequent mechanotransduction verified by YAP-transcriptional enhanced associate domain transcriptional activity. These single-transgene tools do not require protein binding partners for dynamic membrane localization and permit spatiotemporally precise control over RhoA signaling to advance the study of its diverse regulatory roles in cell migration, morphogenesis, and cell cycle maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Berlew
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33 rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ivan A Kuznetsov
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33 rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Keisuke Yamada
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Bioscience, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, 169-8050, Japan
| | - Lukasz J Bugaj
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33 rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Joel D Boerckel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33 rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Brian Y Chow
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33 rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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13
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Kichuk TC, Carrasco-López C, Avalos JL. Lights up on organelles: Optogenetic tools to control subcellular structure and organization. WIREs Mech Dis 2020; 13:e1500. [PMID: 32715616 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Since the neurobiological inception of optogenetics, light-controlled molecular perturbations have been applied in many scientific disciplines to both manipulate and observe cellular function. Proteins exhibiting light-sensitive conformational changes provide researchers with avenues for spatiotemporal control over the cellular environment and serve as valuable alternatives to chemically inducible systems. Optogenetic approaches have been developed to target proteins to specific subcellular compartments, allowing for the manipulation of nuclear translocation and plasma membrane morphology. Additionally, these tools have been harnessed for molecular interrogation of organelle function, location, and dynamics. Optogenetic approaches offer novel ways to answer fundamental biological questions and to improve the efficiency of bioengineered cell factories by controlling the assembly of synthetic organelles. This review first provides a summary of available optogenetic systems with an emphasis on their organelle-specific utility. It then explores the strategies employed for organelle targeting and concludes by discussing our perspective on the future of optogenetics to control subcellular structure and organization. This article is categorized under: Metabolic Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese C Kichuk
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - César Carrasco-López
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - José L Avalos
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA.,Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
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14
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Berlew EE, Kuznetsov IA, Yamada K, Bugaj LJ, Chow BY. Optogenetic Rac1 engineered from membrane lipid-binding RGS-LOV for inducible lamellipodia formation. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2020; 19:353-361. [PMID: 32048687 PMCID: PMC7141788 DOI: 10.1039/c9pp00434c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
We report the construction of a single-component optogenetic Rac1 (opto-Rac1) to control actin polymerization by dynamic membrane recruitment. Opto-Rac1 is a fusion of wildtype human Rac1 small GTPase to the C-terminal region of BcLOV4, a LOV (light-oxygen-voltage) photoreceptor that rapidly binds the plasma membrane upon blue-light activation via a direct electrostatic interaction with anionic membrane phospholipids. Translocation of the fused wildtype Rac1 effector permits its activation by GEFs (guanine nucleotide exchange factors) and consequent actin polymerization and lamellipodia formation, unlike in existing single-chain systems that operate by allosteric photo-switching of constitutively active Rac1 or the heterodimerization-based (i.e. two-component) membrane recruitment of a Rac1-activating GEF. Opto-Rac1 induction of lamellipodia formation was spatially restricted to the patterned illumination field and was efficient, requiring sparse stimulation duty ratios of ∼1-2% (at the sensitivity threshold for flavin photocycling) to cause significant changes in cell morphology. This work exemplifies how the discovery of LOV proteins of distinct signal transmission modes can beget new classes of optogenetic tools for controlling cellular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Berlew
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ivan A Kuznetsov
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Keisuke Yamada
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lukasz J Bugaj
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brian Y Chow
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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15
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McCormick JW, Pincus D, Resnekov O, Reynolds KA. Strategies for Engineering and Rewiring Kinase Regulation. Trends Biochem Sci 2019; 45:259-271. [PMID: 31866305 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic protein kinases (EPKs) catalyze the transfer of a phosphate group onto another protein in response to appropriate regulatory cues. In doing so, they provide a primary means for cellular information transfer. Consequently, EPKs play crucial roles in cell differentiation and cell-cycle progression, and kinase dysregulation is associated with numerous disease phenotypes including cancer. Nonnative cues for synthetically regulating kinases are thus much sought after, both for dissecting cell signaling pathways and for pharmaceutical development. In recent years advances in protein engineering and sequence analysis have led to new approaches for manipulating kinase activity, localization, and in some instances specificity. These tools have revealed fundamental principles of intracellular signaling and suggest paths forward for the design of therapeutic allosteric kinase regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W McCormick
- The Green Center for Systems Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - David Pincus
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Center for Physics of Evolving Systems, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | | | - Kimberly A Reynolds
- The Green Center for Systems Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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