1
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Zhang J, Li H, Niswander LA. m 5C methylated lncRncr3-MeCP2 interaction restricts miR124a-initiated neurogenesis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5136. [PMID: 38879605 PMCID: PMC11180186 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49368-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Coordination of neuronal differentiation with expansion of the neuroepithelial/neural progenitor cell (NEPC/NPC) pool is essential in early brain development. Our in vitro and in vivo studies identify independent and opposing roles for two neural-specific and differentially expressed non-coding RNAs derived from the same locus: the evolutionarily conserved lncRNA Rncr3 and the embedded microRNA miR124a-1. Rncr3 regulates NEPC/NPC proliferation and controls the biogenesis of miR124a, which determines neuronal differentiation. Rncr3 conserved exons 2/3 are cytosine methylated and bound by methyl-CpG binding protein MeCP2, which restricts expression of miR124a embedded in exon 4 to prevent premature neuronal differentiation, and to orchestrate proper brain growth. MeCP2 directly binds cytosine-methylated Rncr3 through previously unrecognized lysine residues and suppresses miR124a processing by recruiting PTBP1 to block access of DROSHA-DGCR8. Thus, miRNA processing is controlled by lncRNA m5C methylation along with the defined m5C epitranscriptomic RNA reader protein MeCP2 to coordinate brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
| | - Huili Li
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Lee A Niswander
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
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2
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Jia HY, Zhang XY, Ye BC, Yin BC. An Orthogonal CRISPR/dCas12a System for RNA Imaging in Live Cells. Anal Chem 2024; 96:5913-5921. [PMID: 38563119 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas technology has made great progress in the field of live-cell imaging beyond genome editing. However, effective and easy-to-use CRISPR systems for labeling multiple RNAs of interest are still needed. Here, we engineered a CRISPR/dCas12a system that enables the specific recognition of the target RNA under the guidance of a PAM-presenting oligonucleotide (PAMmer) to mimic the PAM recognition mechanism for DNA substrates. We demonstrated the feasibility and specificity of this system for specifically visualizing endogenous mRNA. By leveraging dCas12a-mediated precursor CRISPR RNA (pre-crRNA) processing and the orthogonality of dCas12a from different bacteria, we further demonstrated the proposed system as a simple and versatile molecular toolkit for multiplexed imaging of different types of RNA transcripts in live cells with high specificity. This programmable dCas12a system not only broadens the RNA imaging toolbox but also facilitates diverse applications for RNA manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yan Jia
- Lab of Biosystem and Microanalysis, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing Technology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xin-Yue Zhang
- Lab of Biosystem and Microanalysis, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing Technology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Bang-Ce Ye
- Lab of Biosystem and Microanalysis, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing Technology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Xinjiang 832000, China
| | - Bin-Cheng Yin
- Lab of Biosystem and Microanalysis, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing Technology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shihezi University, Xinjiang 832000, China
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3
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Lee M, Moon HC, Jeong H, Kim DW, Park HY, Shin Y. Optogenetic control of mRNA condensation reveals an intimate link between condensate material properties and functions. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3216. [PMID: 38622120 PMCID: PMC11018775 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47442-x] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates, often assembled through phase transition mechanisms, play key roles in organizing diverse cellular activities. The material properties of condensates, ranging from liquid droplets to solid-like glasses or gels, are key features impacting the way resident components associate with one another. However, it remains unclear whether and how different material properties would influence specific cellular functions of condensates. Here, we combine optogenetic control of phase separation with single-molecule mRNA imaging to study relations between phase behaviors and functional performance of condensates. Using light-activated condensation, we show that sequestering target mRNAs into condensates causes translation inhibition. Orthogonal mRNA imaging reveals highly transient nature of interactions between individual mRNAs and condensates. Tuning condensate composition and material property towards more solid-like states leads to stronger translational repression, concomitant with a decrease in molecular mobility. We further demonstrate that β-actin mRNA sequestration in neurons suppresses spine enlargement during chemically induced long-term potentiation. Our work highlights how the material properties of condensates can modulate functions, a mechanism that may play a role in fine-tuning the output of condensate-driven cellular activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyungseok C Moon
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyeonjeong Jeong
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Dong Wook Kim
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Yoon Park
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
| | - Yongdae Shin
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
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4
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Xu J, Hörner M, Nagel M, Korneck M, Noß M, Hauser S, Schöls L, Admard J, Casadei N, Schüle R. Unraveling Axonal Transcriptional Landscapes: Insights from iPSC-Derived Cortical Neurons and Implications for Motor Neuron Degeneration. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.26.586780. [PMID: 38585749 PMCID: PMC10996649 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.26.586780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Neuronal function and pathology are deeply influenced by the distinct molecular profiles of the axon and soma. Traditional studies have often overlooked these differences due to the technical challenges of compartment specific analysis. In this study, we employ a robust RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) approach, using microfluidic devices, to generate high-quality axonal transcriptomes from iPSC-derived cortical neurons (CNs). We achieve high specificity of axonal fractions, ensuring sample purity without contamination. Comparative analysis revealed a unique and specific transcriptional landscape in axonal compartments, characterized by diverse transcript types, including protein-coding mRNAs, ribosomal proteins (RPs), mitochondrial-encoded RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Previous works have reported the existence of transcription factors (TFs) in the axon. Here, we detect a subset of previously unreported TFs specific to the axon and indicative of their active participation in transcriptional regulation. To investigate transcripts and pathways essential for central motor neuron (MN) degeneration and maintenance we analyzed KIF1C-knockout (KO) CNs, modeling hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), a disorder associated with prominent length-dependent degeneration of central MN axons. We found that several key factors crucial for survival and health were absent in KIF1C-KO axons, highlighting a possible role of these also in other neurodegenerative diseases. Taken together, this study underscores the utility of microfluidic devices in studying compartment-specific transcriptomics in human neuronal models and reveals complex molecular dynamics of axonal biology. The impact of KIF1C on the axonal transcriptome not only deepens our understanding of MN diseases but also presents a promising avenue for exploration of compartment specific disease mechanisms.
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5
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Pham TG, Wu J. Recent advances in methods for live-cell RNA imaging. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:5537-5545. [PMID: 38414383 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00129j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
As one of the most fundamental building blocks of life, RNA plays critical roles in diverse biological processes, from X chromosome inactivation, genome stability maintenance, to embryo development. Being able to visualize the localization and dynamics of RNA can provide critical insights into these fundamental processes. In this review, we provide an overview of current methods for live-cell RNA imaging with a focus on methods for visualizing RNA in living mammalian cells with single-molecule resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tien G Pham
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA.
| | - Jiahui Wu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA.
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6
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Preedy MK, White MRH, Tergaonkar V. Cellular heterogeneity in TNF/TNFR1 signalling: live cell imaging of cell fate decisions in single cells. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:202. [PMID: 38467621 PMCID: PMC10928192 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06559-z] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Cellular responses to TNF are inherently heterogeneous within an isogenic cell population and across different cell types. TNF promotes cell survival by activating pro-inflammatory NF-κB and MAPK signalling pathways but may also trigger apoptosis and necroptosis. Following TNF stimulation, the fate of individual cells is governed by the balance of pro-survival and pro-apoptotic signalling pathways. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms driving heterogenous responses to TNF, quantifying TNF/TNFR1 signalling at the single-cell level is crucial. Fluorescence live-cell imaging techniques offer real-time, dynamic insights into molecular processes in single cells, allowing for detection of rapid and transient changes, as well as identification of subpopulations, that are likely to be missed with traditional endpoint assays. Whilst fluorescence live-cell imaging has been employed extensively to investigate TNF-induced inflammation and TNF-induced cell death, it has been underutilised in studying the role of TNF/TNFR1 signalling pathway crosstalk in guiding cell-fate decisions in single cells. Here, we outline the various opportunities for pathway crosstalk during TNF/TNFR1 signalling and how these interactions may govern heterogenous responses to TNF. We also advocate for the use of live-cell imaging techniques to elucidate the molecular processes driving cell-to-cell variability in single cells. Understanding and overcoming cellular heterogeneity in response to TNF and modulators of the TNF/TNFR1 signalling pathway could lead to the development of targeted therapies for various diseases associated with aberrant TNF/TNFR1 signalling, such as rheumatoid arthritis, metabolic syndrome, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus K Preedy
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, D3308, Dover Street, Manchester, M13 9PT, England, UK
| | - Michael R H White
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, D3308, Dover Street, Manchester, M13 9PT, England, UK.
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), 8 Medical Drive, MD7, Singapore, 117596, Singapore.
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7
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Zheng F, Kawabe Y, Kamihira M. RNA Aptamer-Mediated Gene Activation Systems for Inducible Transgene Expression in Animal Cells. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:230-241. [PMID: 38073086 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00472] [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: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
RNA expression analyses can be used to obtain various information from inside cells, such as physical conditions, the chemical environment, and endogenous signals. For detecting RNA, the system regulating intracellular gene expression has the potential for monitoring RNA expression levels in real time within living cells. Synthetic biology provides powerful tools for detecting and analyzing RNA inside cells. Here, we devised an RNA aptamer-mediated gene activation system, RAMGA, to induce RNA-triggered gene expression activation by employing an inducible complex formation strategy grounded in synthetic biology. This methodology connects DNA-binding domains and transactivators through target RNA using RNA-binding domains, including phage coat proteins. MS2 bacteriophage coat protein fused with a transcriptional activator and PP7 bacteriophage coat protein fused with the tetracycline repressor (tetR) can be bridged by target RNA encoding MS2 and PP7 stem-loops, resulting in transcriptional activation. We generated recombinant CHO cells containing an inducible GFP expression module governed by a minimal promoter with a tetR-responsive element. Cells carrying the trigger RNA exhibited robust reporter gene expression, whereas cells lacking it exhibited no expression. GFP expression was upregulated over 200-fold compared with that in cells without a target RNA expression vector. Moreover, this system can detect the expression of mRNA tagged with aptamer tags and modulate reporter gene expression based on the target mRNA level without affecting the expression of the original mRNA-encoding gene. The RNA-triggered gene expression systems developed in this study have potential as a new platform for establishing gene circuits, evaluating endogenous gene expression, and developing novel RNA detectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyang Zheng
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kawabe
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Masamichi Kamihira
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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8
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Chen ZS, Ou M, Taylor S, Dafinca R, Peng SI, Talbot K, Chan HYE. Mutant GGGGCC RNA prevents YY1 from binding to Fuzzy promoter which stimulates Wnt/β-catenin pathway in C9ALS/FTD. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8420. [PMID: 38110419 PMCID: PMC10728118 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44215-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeat expansion mutation in the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72) gene is a major genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (C9ALS/FTD). In this study, we demonstrate that the zinc finger (ZF) transcriptional regulator Yin Yang 1 (YY1) binds to the promoter region of the planar cell polarity gene Fuzzy to regulate its transcription. We show that YY1 interacts with GGGGCC repeat RNA via its ZF and that this interaction compromises the binding of YY1 to the FuzzyYY1 promoter sites, resulting in the downregulation of Fuzzy transcription. The decrease in Fuzzy protein expression in turn activates the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway and induces synaptic deficits in C9ALS/FTD neurons. Our findings demonstrate a C9orf72 GGGGCC RNA-initiated perturbation of YY1-Fuzzy transcriptional control that implicates aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signalling in C9ALS/FTD-associated neurodegeneration. This pathogenic cascade provides a potential new target for disease-modifying therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhefan Stephen Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Mingxi Ou
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Stephanie Taylor
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Ruxandra Dafinca
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Shaohong Isaac Peng
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kevin Talbot
- Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK.
| | - Ho Yin Edwin Chan
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Gerald Choa Neuroscience Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China.
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9
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Bonucci M, Shu T, Holt LJ. How it feels in a cell. Trends Cell Biol 2023; 33:924-938. [PMID: 37286396 PMCID: PMC10592589 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Life emerges from thousands of biochemical processes occurring within a shared intracellular environment. We have gained deep insights from in vitro reconstitution of isolated biochemical reactions. However, the reaction medium in test tubes is typically simple and diluted. The cell interior is far more complex: macromolecules occupy more than a third of the space, and energy-consuming processes agitate the cell interior. Here, we review how this crowded, active environment impacts the motion and assembly of macromolecules, with an emphasis on mesoscale particles (10-1000 nm diameter). We describe methods to probe and analyze the biophysical properties of cells and highlight how changes in these properties can impact physiology and signaling, and potentially contribute to aging, and diseases, including cancer and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Bonucci
- Institute for Systems Genetics, New York University Langone Medical Center, 435 E 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Tong Shu
- Institute for Systems Genetics, New York University Langone Medical Center, 435 E 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Liam J Holt
- Institute for Systems Genetics, New York University Langone Medical Center, 435 E 30th Street, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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10
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Eichenberger BT, Griesbach E, Mitchell J, Chao JA. Following the Birth, Life, and Death of mRNAs in Single Cells. Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol 2023; 39:253-275. [PMID: 37843928 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cellbio-022723-024045] [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: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in single-molecule imaging of mRNAs in fixed and living cells have enabled the lives of mRNAs to be studied with unprecedented spatial and temporal detail. These approaches have moved beyond simply being able to observe specific events and have begun to allow an understanding of how regulation is coupled between steps in the mRNA life cycle. Additionally, these methodologies are now being applied in multicellular systems and animals to provide more nuanced insights into the physiological regulation of RNA metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian T Eichenberger
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland;
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Esther Griesbach
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Jessica Mitchell
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Jeffrey A Chao
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland;
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11
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Damour A, Slaninova V, Radulescu O, Bertrand E, Basyuk E. Transcriptional Stochasticity as a Key Aspect of HIV-1 Latency. Viruses 2023; 15:1969. [PMID: 37766375 PMCID: PMC10535884 DOI: 10.3390/v15091969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes current advances in the role of transcriptional stochasticity in HIV-1 latency, which were possible in a large part due to the development of single-cell approaches. HIV-1 transcription proceeds in bursts of RNA production, which stem from the stochastic switching of the viral promoter between ON and OFF states. This switching is caused by random binding dynamics of transcription factors and nucleosomes to the viral promoter and occurs at several time scales from minutes to hours. Transcriptional bursts are mainly controlled by the core transcription factors TBP, SP1 and NF-κb, the chromatin status of the viral promoter and RNA polymerase II pausing. In particular, spontaneous variability in the promoter chromatin creates heterogeneity in the response to activators such as TNF-α, which is then amplified by the Tat feedback loop to generate high and low viral transcriptional states. This phenomenon is likely at the basis of the partial and stochastic response of latent T cells from HIV-1 patients to latency-reversing agents, which is a barrier for the development of shock-and-kill strategies of viral eradication. A detailed understanding of the transcriptional stochasticity of HIV-1 and the possibility to precisely model this phenomenon will be important assets to develop more effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Damour
- MFP UMR 5234 CNRS, Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France;
| | - Vera Slaninova
- IGH UMR 9002 CNRS, Université de Montpellier, 34094 Montpellier, France;
| | - Ovidiu Radulescu
- LPHI, UMR 5294 CNRS, University of Montpellier, 34095 Montpellier, France;
| | - Edouard Bertrand
- IGH UMR 9002 CNRS, Université de Montpellier, 34094 Montpellier, France;
| | - Eugenia Basyuk
- MFP UMR 5234 CNRS, Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France;
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12
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Huang S, Dai R, Zhang Z, Zhang H, Zhang M, Li Z, Zhao K, Xiong W, Cheng S, Wang B, Wan Y. CRISPR/Cas-Based Techniques for Live-Cell Imaging and Bioanalysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13447. [PMID: 37686249 PMCID: PMC10487896 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713447] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas systems have found widespread applications in gene editing due to their high accuracy, high programmability, ease of use, and affordability. Benefiting from the cleavage properties (trans- or cis-) of Cas enzymes, the scope of CRISPR/Cas systems has expanded beyond gene editing and they have been utilized in various fields, particularly in live-cell imaging and bioanalysis. In this review, we summarize some fundamental working mechanisms and concepts of the CRISPR/Cas systems, describe the recent advances and design principles of CRISPR/Cas mediated techniques employed in live-cell imaging and bioanalysis, highlight the main applications in the imaging and biosensing of a wide range of molecular targets, and discuss the challenges and prospects of CRISPR/Cas systems in live-cell imaging and biosensing. By illustrating the imaging and bio-sensing processes, we hope this review will guide the best use of the CRISPR/Cas in imaging and quantifying biological and clinical elements and inspire new ideas for better tool design in live-cell imaging and bioanalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Huang
- College of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (S.H.); (Z.Z.); (H.Z.); (M.Z.); (Z.L.); (K.Z.); (W.X.)
| | - Rui Dai
- Institute of Oceanography, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China;
| | - Zhiqi Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (S.H.); (Z.Z.); (H.Z.); (M.Z.); (Z.L.); (K.Z.); (W.X.)
| | - Han Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (S.H.); (Z.Z.); (H.Z.); (M.Z.); (Z.L.); (K.Z.); (W.X.)
| | - Meng Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (S.H.); (Z.Z.); (H.Z.); (M.Z.); (Z.L.); (K.Z.); (W.X.)
| | - Zhangjun Li
- College of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (S.H.); (Z.Z.); (H.Z.); (M.Z.); (Z.L.); (K.Z.); (W.X.)
| | - Kangrui Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (S.H.); (Z.Z.); (H.Z.); (M.Z.); (Z.L.); (K.Z.); (W.X.)
| | - Wenjun Xiong
- College of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (S.H.); (Z.Z.); (H.Z.); (M.Z.); (Z.L.); (K.Z.); (W.X.)
| | - Siyu Cheng
- College of Art and Design, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China;
| | - Buhua Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Yi Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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13
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Gerber A, van Otterdijk S, Bruggeman FJ, Tutucci E. Understanding spatiotemporal coupling of gene expression using single molecule RNA imaging technologies. Transcription 2023; 14:105-126. [PMID: 37050882 PMCID: PMC10807504 DOI: 10.1080/21541264.2023.2199669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Across all kingdoms of life, gene regulatory mechanisms underlie cellular adaptation to ever-changing environments. Regulation of gene expression adjusts protein synthesis and, in turn, cellular growth. Messenger RNAs are key molecules in the process of gene expression. Our ability to quantitatively measure mRNA expression in single cells has improved tremendously over the past decades. This revealed an unexpected coordination between the steps that control the life of an mRNA, from transcription to degradation. Here, we provide an overview of the state-of-the-art imaging approaches for measurement and quantitative understanding of gene expression, starting from the early visualizations of single genes by electron microscopy to current fluorescence-based approaches in single cells, including live-cell RNA-imaging approaches to FISH-based spatial transcriptomics across model organisms. We also highlight how these methods have shaped our current understanding of the spatiotemporal coupling between transcriptional and post-transcriptional events in prokaryotes. We conclude by discussing future challenges of this multidisciplinary field.Abbreviations: mRNA: messenger RNA; rRNA: ribosomal rDNA; tRNA: transfer RNA; sRNA: small RNA; FISH: fluorescence in situ hybridization; RNP: ribonucleoprotein; smFISH: single RNA molecule FISH; smiFISH: single molecule inexpensive FISH; HCR-FISH: Hybridization Chain-Reaction-FISH; RCA: Rolling Circle Amplification; seqFISH: Sequential FISH; MERFISH: Multiplexed error robust FISH; UTR: Untranslated region; RBP: RNA binding protein; FP: fluorescent protein; eGFP: enhanced GFP, MCP: MS2 coat protein; PCP: PP7 coat protein; MB: Molecular beacons; sgRNA: single guide RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Gerber
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sander van Otterdijk
- Systems Biology Lab, A-LIFE department, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences (AIMMS), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J. Bruggeman
- Systems Biology Lab, A-LIFE department, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences (AIMMS), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evelina Tutucci
- Systems Biology Lab, A-LIFE department, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences (AIMMS), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Tan X, Xiao GY, Wang S, Shi L, Zhao Y, Liu X, Yu J, Russell WK, Creighton CJ, Kurie JM. EMT-activated secretory and endocytic vesicular trafficking programs underlie a vulnerability to PI4K2A antagonism in lung cancer. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e165863. [PMID: 36757799 PMCID: PMC10065074 DOI: 10.1172/jci165863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypersecretory malignant cells underlie therapeutic resistance, metastasis, and poor clinical outcomes. However, the molecular basis for malignant hypersecretion remains obscure. Here, we showed that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) initiates exocytic and endocytic vesicular trafficking programs in lung cancer. The EMT-activating transcription factor zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) executed a PI4KIIIβ-to-PI4KIIα (PI4K2A) dependency switch that drove PI4P synthesis in the Golgi and endosomes. EMT enhanced the vulnerability of lung cancer cells to PI4K2A small-molecule antagonists. PI4K2A formed a MYOIIA-containing protein complex that facilitated secretory vesicle biogenesis in the Golgi, thereby establishing a hypersecretory state involving osteopontin (SPP1) and other prometastatic ligands. In the endosomal compartment, PI4K2A accelerated recycling of SPP1 receptors to complete an SPP1-dependent autocrine loop and interacted with HSP90 to prevent lysosomal degradation of AXL receptor tyrosine kinase, a driver of cell migration. These results show that EMT coordinates exocytic and endocytic vesicular trafficking to establish a therapeutically actionable hypersecretory state that drives lung cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochao Tan
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Guan-Yu Xiao
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shike Wang
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yanbin Zhao
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Internal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jiang Yu
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - William K. Russell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Chad J. Creighton
- Department of Medicine and Dan L Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jonathan M. Kurie
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas–MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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15
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Bourke AM, Schwarz A, Schuman EM. De-centralizing the Central Dogma: mRNA translation in space and time. Mol Cell 2023; 83:452-468. [PMID: 36669490 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
As our understanding of the cell interior has grown, we have come to appreciate that most cellular operations are localized, that is, they occur at discrete and identifiable locations or domains. These cellular domains contain enzymes, machines, and other components necessary to carry out and regulate these localized operations. Here, we review these features of one such operation: the localization and translation of mRNAs within subcellular compartments observed across cell types and organisms. We describe the conceptual advantages and the "ingredients" and mechanisms of local translation. We focus on the nature and features of localized mRNAs, how they travel and get localized, and how this process is regulated. We also evaluate our current understanding of protein synthesis machines (ribosomes) and their cadre of regulatory elements, that is, the translation factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Bourke
- Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Max von Laue Strasse 4, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andre Schwarz
- Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Max von Laue Strasse 4, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Erin M Schuman
- Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Max von Laue Strasse 4, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany.
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16
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Bühler B, Schokolowski J, Benderoth A, Englert D, Grün F, Jäschke A, Sunbul M. Avidity-based bright and photostable light-up aptamers for single-molecule mRNA imaging. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:478-487. [PMID: 36658339 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01228-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescent light-up aptamers (FLAPs) have emerged as valuable tools to visualize RNAs, but are mostly limited by their poor brightness, low photostability, and high fluorescence background in live cells. Exploiting the avidity concept, here we present two of the brightest FLAPs with the strongest aptamer-dye interaction, high fluorogenicity, and remarkable photostability. They consist of dimeric fluorophore-binding aptamers (biRhoBAST and biSiRA) embedded in an RNA scaffold and their bivalent fluorophore ligands (bivalent tetramethylrhodamine TMR2 and silicon rhodamine SiR2). Red fluorescent biRhoBAST-TMR2 and near-infrared fluorescent biSiRA-SiR2 are orthogonal to each other, facilitating simultaneous visualization of two different RNA species in live cells. One copy of biRhoBAST allows for simple and robust mRNA imaging with strikingly higher signal-to-background ratios than other FLAPs. Moreover, eight biRhoBAST repeats enable single-molecule mRNA imaging and tracking with minimal perturbation of their localization, translation, and degradation, demonstrating the potential of avidity-enhanced FLAPs for imaging RNA dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Bühler
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Janin Schokolowski
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Benderoth
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Englert
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Franziska Grün
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andres Jäschke
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Murat Sunbul
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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17
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Huang Y, Gao BQ, Meng Q, Yang LZ, Ma XK, Wu H, Pan YH, Yang L, Li D, Chen LL. CRISPR-dCas13-tracing reveals transcriptional memory and limited mRNA export in developing zebrafish embryos. Genome Biol 2023; 24:15. [PMID: 36658633 PMCID: PMC9854193 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-023-02848-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding gene transcription and mRNA-protein (mRNP) dynamics in single cells in a multicellular organism has been challenging. The catalytically dead CRISPR-Cas13 (dCas13) system has been used to visualize RNAs in live cells without genetic manipulation. We optimize this system to track developmentally expressed mRNAs in zebrafish embryos and to understand features of endogenous transcription kinetics and mRNP export. RESULTS We report that zygotic microinjection of purified CRISPR-dCas13-fluorescent proteins and modified guide RNAs allows single- and dual-color tracking of developmentally expressed mRNAs in zebrafish embryos from zygotic genome activation (ZGA) until early segmentation period without genetic manipulation. Using this approach, we uncover non-synchronized de novo transcription between inter-alleles, synchronized post-mitotic re-activation in pairs of alleles, and transcriptional memory as an extrinsic noise that potentially contributes to synchronized post-mitotic re-activation. We also reveal rapid dCas13-engaged mRNP movement in the nucleus with a corralled and diffusive motion, but a wide varying range of rate-limiting mRNP export, which can be shortened by Alyref and Nxf1 overexpression. CONCLUSIONS This optimized dCas13-based toolkit enables robust spatial-temporal tracking of endogenous mRNAs and uncovers features of transcription and mRNP motion, providing a powerful toolkit for endogenous RNA visualization in a multicellular developmental organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youkui Huang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Bao-Qing Gao
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Quan Meng
- grid.418856.60000 0004 1792 5640National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liang-Zhong Yang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu-Kai Ma
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Center for Molecular Medicine, Children’s Hospital, Fudan University and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Wu
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Hang Pan
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Yang
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Center for Molecular Medicine, Children’s Hospital, Fudan University and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong Li
- grid.418856.60000 0004 1792 5640National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ling-Ling Chen
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, China ,grid.440637.20000 0004 4657 8879School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
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18
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Bradbury JJ, Lovegrove HE, Giralt-Pujol M, Herbert SP. Analysis of mRNA Subcellular Distribution in Collective Cell Migration. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2608:389-407. [PMID: 36653719 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2887-4_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The movement of groups of cells by collective cell migration requires division of labor between group members. Therefore, distinct cell identities, unique cell behaviors, and specific cellular roles are acquired by cells undergoing collective movement. A key driving force behind the acquisition of discrete cell states is the precise control of where, when, and how genes are expressed, both at the subcellular and supracellular level. Unraveling the mechanisms underpinning the spatiotemporal control of gene expression in collective cell migration requires not only suitable experimental models but also high-resolution imaging of messenger RNA and protein localization during this process. In recent times, the highly stereotyped growth of new blood vessels by sprouting angiogenesis has become a paradigm for understanding collective cell migration, and consequently this has led to the development of numerous user-friendly in vitro models of angiogenesis. In parallel, single-molecule fluorescent in situ hybridization (smFISH) has come to the fore as a powerful technique that allows quantification of both RNA number and RNA spatial distribution in cells and tissues. Moreover, smFISH can be combined with immunofluorescence to understand the precise interrelationship between RNA and protein distribution. Here, we describe methods for use of smFISH and immunofluorescence microscopy in in vitro angiogenesis models to enable the investigation of RNA and protein expression and localization during endothelial collective cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J Bradbury
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Holly E Lovegrove
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Marta Giralt-Pujol
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Shane P Herbert
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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19
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Huang Z, Guo X, Ma X, Wang F, Jiang JH. Genetically encodable tagging and sensing systems for fluorescent RNA imaging. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 219:114769. [PMID: 36252312 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114769] [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: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/06/2022]
Abstract
Live cell imaging of RNAs is crucial to interrogate their fundamental roles in various biological processes. The highly spatiotemporal dynamic nature of RNA abundance and localization has presented great challenges for RNA imaging. Genetically encodable tagging and sensing (GETS) systems that can be continuously produced in living systems have afforded promising tools for imaging and sensing RNA dynamics in live cells. Here we review the recent advances of GETS systems that have been developed for RNA tagging and sensing in live cells. We first describe the various GETS systems using MS2-bacteriophage-MS2 coat protein, pumilio homology domain and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9/13 for RNA labeling and tracking. The progresses of GETS systems for fluorogenic labeling and/or sensing RNAs by engineering light-up RNA aptamers, CRISPR-Cas9 systems and RNA aptamer stabilized fluorogenic proteins are then elaborated. The challenges and future perspectives in this field are finally discussed. With the continuing development, GETS systems will afford powerful tools to elucidate RNA biology in living systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Xianbo Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Fenglin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China.
| | - Jian-Hui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China.
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20
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Formation of synthetic RNA protein granules using engineered phage-coat-protein -RNA complexes. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6811. [PMID: 36357399 PMCID: PMC9649756 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34644-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid-solid transition, also known as gelation, is a specific form of phase separation in which molecules cross-link to form a highly interconnected compartment with solid - like dynamical properties. Here, we utilize RNA hairpin coat-protein binding sites to form synthetic RNA based gel-like granules via liquid-solid phase transition. We show both in-vitro and in-vivo that hairpin containing synthetic long non-coding RNA (slncRNA) molecules granulate into bright localized puncta. We further demonstrate that upon introduction of the coat-proteins, less-condensed gel-like granules form with the RNA creating an outer shell with the proteins mostly present inside the granule. Moreover, by tracking puncta fluorescence signals over time, we detected addition or shedding events of slncRNA-CP nucleoprotein complexes. Consequently, our granules constitute a genetically encoded storage compartment for protein and RNA with a programmable controlled release profile that is determined by the number of hairpins encoded into the RNA. Our findings have important implications for the potential regulatory role of naturally occurring granules and for the broader biotechnology field.
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21
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Damon LJ, Aaron J, Palmer AE. Single molecule microscopy to profile the effect of zinc status on transcription factor dynamics. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17789. [PMID: 36273101 PMCID: PMC9588069 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22634-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulation of transcription is a complex process that involves binding of transcription factors (TFs) to specific sequences, recruitment of cofactors and chromatin remodelers, assembly of the pre-initiation complex and recruitment of RNA polymerase II. Increasing evidence suggests that TFs are highly dynamic and interact only transiently with DNA. Single molecule microscopy techniques are powerful approaches for tracking individual TF molecules as they diffuse in the nucleus and interact with DNA. Here we employ multifocus microscopy and highly inclined laminated optical sheet microscopy to track TF dynamics in response to perturbations in labile zinc inside cells. We sought to define whether zinc-dependent TFs sense changes in the labile zinc pool by determining whether their dynamics and DNA binding can be modulated by zinc. We used fluorescently tagged versions of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), with two C4 zinc finger domains, and CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF), with eleven C2H2 zinc finger domains. We found that GR was largely insensitive to perturbations of zinc, whereas CTCF was significantly affected by zinc depletion and its dwell time was affected by zinc elevation. These results indicate that at least some transcription factors are sensitive to zinc dynamics, revealing a potential new layer of transcriptional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah J. Damon
- grid.266190.a0000000096214564Department of Biochemistry and BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303 USA
| | - Jesse Aaron
- grid.443970.dAdvanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147 USA
| | - Amy E. Palmer
- grid.266190.a0000000096214564Department of Biochemistry and BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303 USA
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22
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Shao F, Gao Y, Wang W, He H, Xiao L, Geng X, Xia Y, Guo D, Fang J, He J, Lu Z. Silencing EGFR-upregulated expression of CD55 and CD59 activates the complement system and sensitizes lung cancer to checkpoint blockade. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:1192-1210. [PMID: 36271172 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00444-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The complement system is a critical immune component, yet its role in tumor immune evasion and CD8+ T cell activation is not clearly defined. Here, we demonstrate that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/Wnt signaling induces β-catenin-mediated long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) LINC00973 expression to sponge CD55-targeting miR-216b and CD59-targeting miR-150. The consequently upregulated CD55/CD59 expression suppresses the complement system and cytokine secretion required for CD8+ T cell activation. CD55/CD59-neutralizing antibody treatment or mutation of the LINC00973 promoter activates the complement and CD8+ T cells, inhibiting tumor growth. Importantly, combined anti-CD55/CD59 and anti-programmed death 1 (anti-PD-1) antibody treatments elicit a synergistic tumor-inhibiting effect. In addition, CD55/CD59 levels are inversely correlated with infiltration of M1 macrophages and CD8+ T cells in human lung cancer specimens and predict patient outcome. These findings underscore the critical role of EGFR/Wnt/β-catenin-upregulated CD55/CD59 expression in inhibiting the complement and CD8+ T cell activation for tumor immune evasion and immune checkpoint blockade resistance and identify a potential combination therapy to overcome these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Shao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, and Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yibo Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Central Laboratory, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Haiyan He
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liwei Xiao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Geng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Xia
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dong Guo
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Fang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, and Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhimin Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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23
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Ding X, Yu L, Chen L, Li Y, Zhang J, Sheng H, Ren Z, Li Y, Yu X, Jin S, Cao J. Recent Progress and Future Prospect of CRISPR/Cas-Derived Transcription Activation (CRISPRa) System in Plants. Cells 2022; 11:3045. [PMID: 36231007 PMCID: PMC9564188 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193045] [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: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome editing technology has become one of the hottest research areas in recent years. Among diverse genome editing tools, the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated proteins system (CRISPR/Cas system) has exhibited the obvious advantages of specificity, simplicity, and flexibility over any previous genome editing system. In addition, the emergence of Cas9 mutants, such as dCas9 (dead Cas9), which lost its endonuclease activity but maintains DNA recognition activity with the guide RNA, provides powerful genetic manipulation tools. In particular, combining the dCas9 protein and transcriptional activator to achieve specific regulation of gene expression has made important contributions to biotechnology in medical research as well as agriculture. CRISPR/dCas9 activation (CRISPRa) can increase the transcription of endogenous genes. Overexpression of foreign genes by traditional transgenic technology in plant cells is the routine method to verify gene function by elevating genes transcription. One of the main limitations of the overexpression is the vector capacity constraint that makes it difficult to express multiple genes using the typical Ti plasmid vectors from Agrobacterium. The CRISPRa system can overcome these limitations of the traditional gene overexpression method and achieve multiple gene activation by simply designating several guide RNAs in one vector. This review summarizes the latest progress based on the development of CRISPRa systems, including SunTag, dCas9-VPR, dCas9-TV, scRNA, SAM, and CRISPR-Act and their applications in plants. Furthermore, limitations, challenges of current CRISPRa systems and future prospective applications are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Ding
- Institute of Cotton, Shanxi Agricultural University, Yuncheng 044000, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Lu Yu
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Luo Chen
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yujie Li
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jinlun Zhang
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Hanyan Sheng
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zhengwei Ren
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yunlong Li
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xiaohan Yu
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Shuangxia Jin
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jinglin Cao
- Tobacco Research Institute of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430030, China
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24
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Sfera A, Hazan S, Anton JJ, Sfera DO, Andronescu CV, Sasannia S, Rahman L, Kozlakidis Z. Psychotropic drugs interaction with the lipid nanoparticle of COVID-19 mRNA therapeutics. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:995481. [PMID: 36160443 PMCID: PMC9503827 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.995481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines for COVID-19, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, were authorized in the US on an emergency basis in December of 2020. The rapid distribution of these therapeutics around the country and the world led to millions of people being vaccinated in a short time span, an action that decreased hospitalization and death but also heightened the concerns about adverse effects and drug-vaccine interactions. The COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are of particular interest as they form the vanguard of a range of other mRNA therapeutics that are currently in the development pipeline, focusing both on infectious diseases as well as oncological applications. The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) has gained additional attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically regarding the rollout of mRNA therapeutics. However, for VAERS, absence of a reporting platform for drug-vaccine interactions left these events poorly defined. For example, chemotherapy, anticonvulsants, and antimalarials were documented to interfere with the mRNA vaccines, but much less is known about the other drugs that could interact with these therapeutics, causing adverse events or decreased efficacy. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 exploitation of host cytochrome P450 enzymes, reported in COVID-19 critical illness, highlights viral interference with drug metabolism. For example, patients with severe psychiatric illness (SPI) in treatment with clozapine often displayed elevated drug levels, emphasizing drug-vaccine interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adonis Sfera
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Sabine Hazan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan J. Anton
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
- Department of Biology, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Dan O. Sfera
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Leah Rahman
- Department of Medicine, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Zisis Kozlakidis
- International Agency For Research On Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
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25
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Chiu YF, Huang YW, Chen CY, Chen YC, Gong YN, Kuo RL, Huang CG, Shih SR. Visualizing Influenza A Virus vRNA Replication. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:812711. [PMID: 35733972 PMCID: PMC9207383 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.812711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV) has caused recurrent epidemics and severe pandemics. In this study, we adapted an MS2-MCP live-cell imaging system to visualize IAV replication. A reporter plasmid, pHH-PB2-vMSL, was constructed by replacing a part of the PB2-coding sequence in pHH-PB2 with a sequence encoding 24 copies of a stem-loop structure from bacteriophage MS2 (MSL). Binding of MS2 coat protein (MCP) fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP) to MSL enabled the detection of vRNA as fluorescent punctate signals in live-cell imaging. The introduction of pHH-PB2-vMSL into A549 cells transduced to express an MCP-GFP fusion protein lacking the nuclear localization signal (MCP-GFPdN), subsequently allowed tracking of the distribution and replication of PB2-vMSL vRNA after IAV PR8 infection. Spatial and temporal measurements revealed exponential increases in vRNA punctate signal intensity, which was only observed after membrane blebbing in apoptotic cells. Similar signal intensity increases in apoptotic cells were also observed after MDCK cells, transduced to express MCP-GFPdN, were infected with IAV carrying PB2-vMSL vRNA. Notably, PB2-vMSL vRNA replication was observed to occur only in apoptotic cells, at a consistent time after apoptosis initiation. There was a lack of observable PB2-vMSL vRNA replication in non-apoptotic cells, and vRNA replication was suppressed in the presence of apoptosis inhibitors. These findings point to an important role for apoptosis in IAV vRNA replication. The utility of the MS2-imaging system for visualizing time-sensitive processes such as viral replication in live host cells is also demonstrated in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Fang Chiu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Yuan Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chia Chen
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Nong Gong
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Rei-Lin Kuo
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Guei Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Ru Shih
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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26
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Guo Y, Lee RE. Long-term imaging of individual mRNA molecules in living cells. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100226. [PMID: 35784652 PMCID: PMC9243547 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100226] [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: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Single-cell imaging of individual mRNAs has revealed core mechanisms of the central dogma. However, most approaches require cell fixation or have limited sensitivity for live-cell applications. Here, we describe SunRISER (SunTag-based reporter for imaging signal-enriched mRNA), a computationally and experimentally optimized approach for unambiguous detection of single mRNA molecules in living cells. When viewed by epifluorescence microscopy, SunRISER-labeled mRNAs show strong signal to background and resistance to photobleaching, which together enable long-term mRNA imaging studies. SunRISER variants, using 8× and 10× stem-loop arrays, demonstrate effective mRNA detection while significantly reducing alterations to target mRNA sequences. We characterize SunRISER to observe mRNA inheritance during mitosis and find that stressors enhance diversity among post-mitotic sister cells. Taken together, SunRISER enables a glimpse into living cells to observe aspects of the central dogma and the role of mRNAs in rare and dynamical trafficking events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Guo
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Robin E.C. Lee
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Center for Systems Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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27
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Le P, Ahmed N, Yeo GW. Illuminating RNA biology through imaging. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:815-824. [PMID: 35697782 PMCID: PMC11132331 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00933-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RNA processing plays a central role in accurately transmitting genetic information into functional RNA and protein regulators. To fully appreciate the RNA life-cycle, tools to observe RNA with high spatial and temporal resolution are critical. Here we review recent advances in RNA imaging and highlight how they will propel the field of RNA biology. We discuss current trends in RNA imaging and their potential to elucidate unanswered questions in RNA biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong Le
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Stem Cell Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Noorsher Ahmed
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Stem Cell Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Gene W Yeo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Stem Cell Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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28
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Abstract
Microtubules are essential cytoskeletal elements found in all eukaryotic cells. The structure and composition of microtubules regulate their function, and the dynamic remodeling of the network by posttranslational modifications and microtubule-associated proteins generates diverse populations of microtubules adapted for various contexts. In the cardiomyocyte, the microtubules must accommodate the unique challenges faced by a highly contractile, rigidly structured, and long-lasting cell. Through their canonical trafficking role and positioning of mRNA, proteins, and organelles, microtubules regulate essential cardiomyocyte functions such as electrical activity, calcium handling, protein translation, and growth. In a more specialized role, posttranslationally modified microtubules form load-bearing structures that regulate myocyte mechanics and mechanotransduction. Modified microtubules proliferate in cardiovascular diseases, creating stabilized resistive elements that impede cardiomyocyte contractility and contribute to contractile dysfunction. In this review, we highlight the most exciting new concepts emerging from recent studies into canonical and noncanonical roles of cardiomyocyte microtubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Uchida
- Department of Physiology, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
| | - Emily A Scarborough
- Department of Physiology, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
| | - Benjamin L Prosser
- Department of Physiology, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
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29
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Chen M, Sui T, Yang L, Qian Y, Liu Z, Liu Y, Wang G, Lai L, Li Z. Live imaging of RNA and RNA splicing in mammalian cells via the dcas13a-SunTag-BiFC system. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 204:114074. [PMID: 35149451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Dynamic tracking of the localization of RNA molecules (nucleus and/or cytoplasm) and RNA splicing in living cells plays an important role in understanding their functions. However, a lack of dynamic imaging and high background fluorescence have been reported in the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Here, we developed a new tool, the dcas13a-SunTag-BiFC system, which fused the dLwacas13a and SunTag systems. dLwacas13a is used as a tracker to target specific RNAs, while SunTag recruits split Venus fluorescent proteins to label targeted RNAs. Our results showed that 4 × NLS-dCas13a-24 × SunTag-BiFC and 2 × NLS- dCas13a-24 × SunTag-BiFC systems can be used for imaging of endogenous RNA foci in the nucleus (Xist) and cytoplasm (Ppib and stress granules) in living cells, respectively. Compared to 12x MS2-MCP system, the dcas13a-SunTag-BiFC system showed a better performance of mRNA foci tracking in live cells. Furthermore, we confirmed the premature termination codon (PTC)-induced exon skipping of Oxt RNA using the dcas13a-SunTag-BiFC and MS2-MCP systems in the nucleus. Thus, the dcas13a-SunTag-BiFC system will facilitate the study of RNA localization in living cells and provide new insights into RNA translocation and splicing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Tingting Sui
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Li Yang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Yuqiang Qian
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Zhiquan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Yongsai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Gerong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Liangxue Lai
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
| | - Zhanjun Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
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30
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Van de Vyver T, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K. Modulating intracellular pathways to improve non-viral delivery of RNA therapeutics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 181:114041. [PMID: 34763002 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RNA therapeutics (e.g. siRNA, oligonucleotides, mRNA, etc.) show great potential for the treatment of a myriad of diseases. However, to reach their site of action in the cytosol or nucleus of target cells, multiple intra- and extracellular barriers have to be surmounted. Several non-viral delivery systems, such as nanoparticles and conjugates, have been successfully developed to meet this requirement. Unfortunately, despite these clear advances, state-of-the-art delivery agents still suffer from relatively low intracellular delivery efficiencies. Notably, our current understanding of the intracellular delivery process is largely oversimplified. Gaining mechanistic insight into how RNA formulations are processed by cells will fuel rational design of the next generation of delivery carriers. In addition, identifying which intracellular pathways contribute to productive RNA delivery could provide opportunities to boost the delivery performance of existing nanoformulations. In this review, we discuss both established as well as emerging techniques that can be used to assess the impact of different intracellular barriers on RNA transfection performance. Next, we highlight how several modulators, including small molecules but also genetic perturbation technologies, can boost RNA delivery by intervening at differing stages of the intracellular delivery process, such as cellular uptake, intracellular trafficking, endosomal escape, autophagy and exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Van de Vyver
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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31
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Gao F, Zheng K, Li YB, Jiang F, Han CY. A Cas6-based RNA tracking platform functioning in a fluorescence-activation mode. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:e46. [PMID: 35061906 PMCID: PMC9071499 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the fact that the localization of RNAs is closely associated with their functions, techniques developed for tracking the distribution of RNAs in live cells have greatly advanced the study of RNA biology. Recently, innovative application of fluorescent protein-labelled Cas9 and Cas13 into live-cell RNA tracking further enriches the toolbox. However, the Cas9/Cas13 platform, as well as the widely-used MS2-MCP technique, failed to solve the problem of high background noise. It was recently reported that CRISPR/Cas6 would exhibit allosteric alteration after interacting with the Cas6 binding site (CBS) on RNAs. Here, we exploited this feature and designed a Cas6-based switch platform for detecting target RNAs in vivo. Conjugating split-Venus fragments to both ends of the endoribonuclease-mutated Escherichia coli Cas6(dEcCas6) allowed ligand (CBS)-activated split-Venus complementation. We name this platform as Cas6 based Fluorescence Complementation (Cas6FC). In living cells, Cas6FC could detect target RNAs with nearly free background noise. Moreover, as minimal as one copy of CBS (29nt) tagged in an RNA of interest was able to turn on Cas6FC fluorescence, which greatly reduced the odds of potential alteration of conformation and localization of target RNAs. Thus, we developed a new RNA tracking platform inherently with high sensitivity and specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Gao
- Gene Editing Research Center, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China
| | - Ke Zheng
- Gene Editing Research Center, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China
| | - You-Bo Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, Hebei 071000, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Gene Editing Research Center, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China
| | - Chun-Yu Han
- Gene Editing Research Center, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China
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32
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Hees JT, Harbauer AB. Live-Cell Imaging of RNA Transport in Axons of Cultured Primary Neurons. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2431:225-237. [PMID: 35412279 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1990-2_11] [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: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The use of fluorescent proteins has revolutionized the study of protein localization and transport. However, the visualization of other molecules and specifically RNA during live-cell imaging remains challenging. In this chapter, we provide guidance to the available methods, their advantages and drawbacks as well as provide a detailed protocol for the detection of RNA transport using the MS2/PP7-split-Venus system for background-free RNA imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Tabitha Hees
- Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology, Martinsried, Germany
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33
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Durand S, Seigneuret F, Burlaud-Gaillard J, Lemoine R, Tassi MF, Moreau A, Mougel M, Roingeard P, Tauber C, de Rocquigny H. Quantitative analysis of the formation of nucleoprotein complexes between HIV-1 Gag protein and genomic RNA using transmission electron microscopy. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101500. [PMID: 34929171 PMCID: PMC8760521 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In HIV, the polyprotein precursor Gag orchestrates the formation of the viral capsid. In the current view of this viral assembly, Gag forms low-order oligomers that bind to the viral genomic RNA triggering the formation of high-ordered ribonucleoprotein complexes. However, this assembly model was established using biochemical or imaging methods that do not describe the cellular location hosting Gag-gRNA complex nor distinguish gRNA packaging in single particles. Here, we studied the intracellular localization of these complexes by electron microscopy and monitored the distances between the two partners by morphometric analysis of gold beads specifically labeling Gag and gRNA. We found that formation of these viral clusters occurred shortly after the nuclear export of the gRNA. During their transport to the plasma membrane, the distance between Gag and gRNA decreases together with an increase of gRNA packaging. Point mutations in the zinc finger patterns of the nucleocapsid domain of Gag caused an increase in the distance between Gag and gRNA as well as a sharp decrease of gRNA packaged into virions. Finally, we show that removal of stem loop 1 of the 5'-untranslated region does not interfere with gRNA packaging, whereas combined with the removal of stem loop 3 is sufficient to decrease but not abolish Gag-gRNA cluster formation and gRNA packaging. In conclusion, this morphometric analysis of Gag-gRNA cluster formation sheds new light on HIV-1 assembly that can be used to describe at nanoscale resolution other viral assembly steps involving RNA or protein-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Durand
- Morphogenesis and Antigenicity of HIV and Hepatitis Viruses, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Bretonneau Hospital, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Florian Seigneuret
- Morphogenesis and Antigenicity of HIV and Hepatitis Viruses, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Bretonneau Hospital, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Julien Burlaud-Gaillard
- Microscopy IBiSA Platform, PPF ASB, University of Tours and CHRU of Tours, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Roxane Lemoine
- B Cell Ressources Platform, EA4245 "Transplantation, Immunology and Inflammation", University of Tours, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Marc-Florent Tassi
- Morphogenesis and Antigenicity of HIV and Hepatitis Viruses, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Bretonneau Hospital, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Alain Moreau
- Morphogenesis and Antigenicity of HIV and Hepatitis Viruses, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Bretonneau Hospital, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Marylène Mougel
- Équipe R2D2 Retroviral RNA Dynamics and Delivery, IRIM, CNRS UMR9004, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Roingeard
- Morphogenesis and Antigenicity of HIV and Hepatitis Viruses, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Bretonneau Hospital, Tours Cedex 1, France; Microscopy IBiSA Platform, PPF ASB, University of Tours and CHRU of Tours, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Clovis Tauber
- UMR U1253 iBrain, Inserm, University of Tours, Tours Cedex 1, France
| | - Hugues de Rocquigny
- Morphogenesis and Antigenicity of HIV and Hepatitis Viruses, Inserm - U1259 MAVIVH, Bretonneau Hospital, Tours Cedex 1, France.
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34
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Liu J, Yang LZ, Chen LL. Understanding lncRNA-protein assemblies with imaging and single-molecule approaches. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2021; 72:128-137. [PMID: 34933201 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) associate with RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) to form lncRNA-protein complexes that act in a wide range of biological processes. Understanding the molecular mechanism of how a lncRNA-protein complex is assembled and regulated is key for their cellular functions. In this mini-review, we outline molecular methods used to identify lncRNA-protein interactions from large-scale to individual levels using bulk cells as well as those recently developed imaging and single-molecule approaches that are capable of visualizing RNA-protein assemblies in single cells and in real-time. Focusing on the latter group of approaches, we discuss their applications and limitations, which nevertheless have enabled quantification and comprehensive dissection of RNA-protein interactions possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaquan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Liang-Zhong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Ling-Ling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai, 200031, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China; School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
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35
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Xist nucleates local protein gradients to propagate silencing across the X chromosome. Cell 2021; 184:6174-6192.e32. [PMID: 34813726 PMCID: PMC8671326 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The lncRNA Xist forms ∼50 diffraction-limited foci to transcriptionally silence one X chromosome. How this small number of RNA foci and interacting proteins regulate a much larger number of X-linked genes is unknown. We show that Xist foci are locally confined, contain ∼2 RNA molecules, and nucleate supramolecular complexes (SMACs) that include many copies of the critical silencing protein SPEN. Aggregation and exchange of SMAC proteins generate local protein gradients that regulate broad, proximal chromatin regions. Partitioning of numerous SPEN molecules into SMACs is mediated by their intrinsically disordered regions and essential for transcriptional repression. Polycomb deposition via SMACs induces chromatin compaction and the increase in SMACs density around genes, which propagates silencing across the X chromosome. Our findings introduce a mechanism for functional nuclear compartmentalization whereby crowding of transcriptional and architectural regulators enables the silencing of many target genes by few RNA molecules.
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36
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Pichon X, Moissoglu K, Coleno E, Wang T, Imbert A, Robert MC, Peter M, Chouaib R, Walter T, Mueller F, Zibara K, Bertrand E, Mili S. The kinesin KIF1C transports APC-dependent mRNAs to cell protrusions. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 27:1528-1544. [PMID: 34493599 PMCID: PMC8594469 DOI: 10.1261/rna.078576.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
RNA localization and local translation are important for numerous cellular functions. In mammals, a class of mRNAs localize to cytoplasmic protrusions in an APC-dependent manner, with roles during cell migration. Here, we investigated this localization mechanism. We found that the KIF1C motor interacts with APC-dependent mRNAs and is required for their localization. Live cell imaging revealed rapid, active transport of single mRNAs over long distances that requires both microtubules and KIF1C. Two-color imaging directly revealed single mRNAs transported by single KIF1C motors, with the 3'UTR being sufficient to trigger KIF1C-dependent RNA transport and localization. Moreover, KIF1C remained associated with peripheral, multimeric RNA clusters and was required for their formation. These results reveal a widespread RNA transport pathway in mammalian cells, in which the KIF1C motor has a dual role in transporting RNAs and clustering them within cytoplasmic protrusions. Interestingly, KIF1C also transports its own mRNA, suggesting a possible feedback loop acting at the level of mRNA transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Pichon
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - Konstadinos Moissoglu
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA
| | - Emeline Coleno
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34000 Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34396 Montpellier, France
| | - Tianhong Wang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA
| | - Arthur Imbert
- MINES ParisTech, PSL-Research University, CBIO-Centre for Computational Biology, 77300 Fontainebleau, France
- Institut Curie, 75248 Paris Cedex, France
- INSERM, U900, 75248 Paris Cedex, France
| | - Marie-Cécile Robert
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34000 Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34396 Montpellier, France
| | - Marion Peter
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - Racha Chouaib
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34000 Montpellier, France
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Thomas Walter
- MINES ParisTech, PSL-Research University, CBIO-Centre for Computational Biology, 77300 Fontainebleau, France
- Institut Curie, 75248 Paris Cedex, France
- INSERM, U900, 75248 Paris Cedex, France
| | - Florian Mueller
- Unité Imagerie et Modélisation, Institut Pasteur and CNRS UMR 3691, 75015 Paris, France
- C3BI, USR 3756 IP CNRS - Paris, France
| | - Kazem Zibara
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
- ER045, PRASE, DSST, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Edouard Bertrand
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34293 Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34000 Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34396 Montpellier, France
| | - Stavroula Mili
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA
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Basyuk E, Rage F, Bertrand E. RNA transport from transcription to localized translation: a single molecule perspective. RNA Biol 2021; 18:1221-1237. [PMID: 33111627 PMCID: PMC8354613 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1842631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Transport of mRNAs is an important step of gene expression, which brings the genetic message from the DNA in the nucleus to a precise cytoplasmic location in a regulated fashion. Perturbation of this process can lead to pathologies such as developmental and neurological disorders. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the field of mRNA transport made using single molecule fluorescent imaging approaches. We present an overview of these approaches in fixed and live cells and their input in understanding the key steps of mRNA journey: transport across the nucleoplasm, export through the nuclear pores and delivery to its final cytoplasmic location. This review puts a particular emphasis on the coupling of mRNA transport with translation, such as localization-dependent translational regulation and translation-dependent mRNA localization. We also highlight the recently discovered translation factories, and how cellular and viral RNAs can hijack membrane transport systems to travel in the cytoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Basyuk
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, CNRS-UMR9002, Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Present address: Laboratoire de Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, CNRS-UMR 5234, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Florence Rage
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS-UMR5535, Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Edouard Bertrand
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, CNRS-UMR9002, Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS-UMR5535, Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Equipe Labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre Le Cancer, Montpellier, France
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38
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Rombouts S, Nollmann M. RNA imaging in bacteria. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2021; 45:5917984. [PMID: 33016325 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuaa051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression plays an essential role in many biological processes. Recently, several imaging-based RNA labeling and detection methods, both in fixed and live cells, were developed and now enable the study of transcript abundance, localization and dynamics. Here, we review the main single-cell techniques for RNA visualization with fluorescence microscopy and describe their applications in bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rombouts
- Centre de Biochimie Structurale, CNRS UMR 5048, INSERM U1054, Université de Montpellier, 60 Rue de Navacelles, 34090, Montpellier, France
| | - Marcelo Nollmann
- Centre de Biochimie Structurale, CNRS UMR 5048, INSERM U1054, Université de Montpellier, 60 Rue de Navacelles, 34090, Montpellier, France
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39
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Hani S, Cuyas L, David P, Secco D, Whelan J, Thibaud MC, Merret R, Mueller F, Pochon N, Javot H, Faklaris O, Maréchal E, Bertrand E, Nussaume L. Live single-cell transcriptional dynamics via RNA labelling during the phosphate response in plants. NATURE PLANTS 2021; 7:1050-1064. [PMID: 34373603 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-021-00981-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Plants are constantly adapting to ambient fluctuations through spatial and temporal transcriptional responses. Here, we implemented the latest-generation RNA imaging system and combined it with microfluidics to visualize transcriptional regulation in living Arabidopsis plants. This enabled quantitative measurements of the transcriptional activity of single loci in single cells, in real time and under changing environmental conditions. Using phosphate-responsive genes as a model, we found that active genes displayed high transcription initiation rates (one initiation event every ~3 s) and frequently clustered together in endoreplicated cells. We observed gene bursting and large allelic differences in single cells, revealing that at steady state, intrinsic noise dominated extrinsic variations. Moreover, we established that transcriptional repression triggered in roots by phosphate, a crucial macronutrient limiting plant development, occurred with unexpectedly fast kinetics (on the order of minutes) and striking heterogeneity between neighbouring cells. Access to single-cell RNA polymerase II dynamics in live plants will benefit future studies of signalling processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Hani
- Aix Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, SAVE (Signalisation pour l'Adaptation des Végétaux à leur Environnement), Saint-Paul lez Durance, France
| | - Laura Cuyas
- Aix Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, SAVE (Signalisation pour l'Adaptation des Végétaux à leur Environnement), Saint-Paul lez Durance, France
- Agroinnovation International-TIMAC AGRO, Groupe Roullier, Saint-Malo, France
| | - Pascale David
- Aix Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, SAVE (Signalisation pour l'Adaptation des Végétaux à leur Environnement), Saint-Paul lez Durance, France
| | - David Secco
- Department of Animal, Plant and Soil Sciences, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - James Whelan
- Department of Animal, Plant and Soil Sciences, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marie-Christine Thibaud
- Aix Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, SAVE (Signalisation pour l'Adaptation des Végétaux à leur Environnement), Saint-Paul lez Durance, France
| | - Rémy Merret
- UMR5096 CNRS/Université de Perpignan, Laboratoire Génome et Développement des Plantes, Perpignan, France
| | - Florian Mueller
- Unité Imagerie et Modélisation, Institut Pasteur and CNRS UMR 3691, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Pochon
- Aix Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, SAVE (Signalisation pour l'Adaptation des Végétaux à leur Environnement), Saint-Paul lez Durance, France
| | - Hélène Javot
- Aix Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, SAVE (Signalisation pour l'Adaptation des Végétaux à leur Environnement), Saint-Paul lez Durance, France
| | - Orestis Faklaris
- MRI, BioCampus Montpellier, CRBM, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Eric Maréchal
- UMR 5168 CNRS-CEA-INRA-Université Grenoble Alpes, Laboratoire de Physiologie Cellulaire et Végétale, iRIG, CEA-Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Edouard Bertrand
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, Montpellier, France.
| | - Laurent Nussaume
- Aix Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, SAVE (Signalisation pour l'Adaptation des Végétaux à leur Environnement), Saint-Paul lez Durance, France.
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Tantale K, Garcia-Oliver E, Robert MC, L'Hostis A, Yang Y, Tsanov N, Topno R, Gostan T, Kozulic-Pirher A, Basu-Shrivastava M, Mukherjee K, Slaninova V, Andrau JC, Mueller F, Basyuk E, Radulescu O, Bertrand E. Stochastic pausing at latent HIV-1 promoters generates transcriptional bursting. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4503. [PMID: 34301927 PMCID: PMC8302722 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Promoter-proximal pausing of RNA polymerase II is a key process regulating gene expression. In latent HIV-1 cells, it prevents viral transcription and is essential for latency maintenance, while in acutely infected cells the viral factor Tat releases paused polymerase to induce viral expression. Pausing is fundamental for HIV-1, but how it contributes to bursting and stochastic viral reactivation is unclear. Here, we performed single molecule imaging of HIV-1 transcription. We developed a quantitative analysis method that manages multiple time scales from seconds to days and that rapidly fits many models of promoter dynamics. We found that RNA polymerases enter a long-lived pause at latent HIV-1 promoters (>20 minutes), thereby effectively limiting viral transcription. Surprisingly and in contrast to current models, pausing appears stochastic and not obligatory, with only a small fraction of the polymerases undergoing long-lived pausing in absence of Tat. One consequence of stochastic pausing is that HIV-1 transcription occurs in bursts in latent cells, thereby facilitating latency exit and providing a rationale for the stochasticity of viral rebounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katjana Tantale
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Encar Garcia-Oliver
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie-Cécile Robert
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Adèle L'Hostis
- LPHI, UMR CNRS 5235, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Yueyuxiao Yang
- LPHI, UMR CNRS 5235, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Nikolay Tsanov
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Rachel Topno
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- LPHI, UMR CNRS 5235, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Thierry Gostan
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Alja Kozulic-Pirher
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Meenakshi Basu-Shrivastava
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Kamalika Mukherjee
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Vera Slaninova
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Andrau
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Florian Mueller
- Unité Imagerie et Modélisation, Institut Pasteur and CNRS UMR 3691, Paris, France
| | - Eugenia Basyuk
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
- Microbiology Fundamental and Pathogenicity CNRS UMR 5234, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.
| | - Ovidiu Radulescu
- LPHI, UMR CNRS 5235, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Edouard Bertrand
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
- Equipe labélisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
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Pimmett VL, Dejean M, Fernandez C, Trullo A, Bertrand E, Radulescu O, Lagha M. Quantitative imaging of transcription in living Drosophila embryos reveals the impact of core promoter motifs on promoter state dynamics. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4504. [PMID: 34301936 PMCID: PMC8302612 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24461-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Genes are expressed in stochastic transcriptional bursts linked to alternating active and inactive promoter states. A major challenge in transcription is understanding how promoter composition dictates bursting, particularly in multicellular organisms. We investigate two key Drosophila developmental promoter motifs, the TATA box (TATA) and the Initiator (INR). Using live imaging in Drosophila embryos and new computational methods, we demonstrate that bursting occurs on multiple timescales ranging from seconds to minutes. TATA-containing promoters and INR-containing promoters exhibit distinct dynamics, with one or two separate rate-limiting steps respectively. A TATA box is associated with long active states, high rates of polymerase initiation, and short-lived, infrequent inactive states. In contrast, the INR motif leads to two inactive states, one of which relates to promoter-proximal polymerase pausing. Surprisingly, the model suggests pausing is not obligatory, but occurs stochastically for a subset of polymerases. Overall, our results provide a rationale for promoter switching during zygotic genome activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia L Pimmett
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Matthieu Dejean
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Carola Fernandez
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Antonio Trullo
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Edouard Bertrand
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Ovidiu Radulescu
- Laboratory of Pathogen Host Interactions, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Mounia Lagha
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
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Bhakta S, Tsukahara T. Artificial RNA Editing with ADAR for Gene Therapy. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 20:44-54. [PMID: 32416688 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220666200516170137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Editing mutated genes is a potential way for the treatment of genetic diseases. G-to-A mutations are common in mammals and can be treated by adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) editing, a type of substitutional RNA editing. The molecular mechanism of A-to-I editing involves the hydrolytic deamination of adenosine to an inosine base; this reaction is mediated by RNA-specific deaminases, adenosine deaminases acting on RNA (ADARs), family protein. Here, we review recent findings regarding the application of ADARs to restoring the genetic code along with different approaches involved in the process of artificial RNA editing by ADAR. We have also addressed comparative studies of various isoforms of ADARs. Therefore, we will try to provide a detailed overview of the artificial RNA editing and the role of ADAR with a focus on the enzymatic site directed A-to-I editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Bhakta
- Area of Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomicity, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Tsukahara
- Area of Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomicity, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan
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43
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de Voogt WS, Tanenbaum ME, Vader P. Illuminating RNA trafficking and functional delivery by extracellular vesicles. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 174:250-264. [PMID: 33894328 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RNA-based therapeutics are highly promising for the treatment of numerous diseases, by their ability to tackle the genetic origin in multiple possible ways. RNA molecules are, however, incapable of crossing cell membranes, hence a safe and efficient delivery vehicle is pivotal. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are endogenously derived nano-sized particles and possess several characteristics which make them excellent candidates as therapeutic RNA delivery agent. This includes the inherent capability to functionally transfer RNAs in a selective manner and an enhanced safety profile compared to synthetic particles. Nonetheless, the fundamental mechanisms underlying this selective inter- and intracellular trafficking and functional transfer of RNAs by EVs are poorly understood. Improving our understanding of these systems is a key element of working towards an EV-based or EV-mimicking system for the functional delivery of therapeutic RNA. In this review, state-of-the-art approaches to detect and visualize RNA in situ and in live cells are discussed, as well as strategies to assess functional RNA transfer, highlighting their potential in studying EV-RNA trafficking mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willemijn S de Voogt
- CDL Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Marvin E Tanenbaum
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Pieter Vader
- CDL Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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44
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Poly(A)+ Sensing of Hybridization-Sensitive Fluorescent Oligonucleotide Probe Characterized by Fluorescence Correlation Methods. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126433. [PMID: 34208525 PMCID: PMC8234900 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) plays an important role in many cellular processes. Thus, visualizing and quantifying the molecular dynamics of RNA directly in living cells is essential to uncovering their role in RNA metabolism. Among the wide variety of fluorescent probes available for RNA visualization, exciton-controlled hybridization-sensitive fluorescent oligonucleotide (ECHO) probes are useful because of their low fluorescence background. In this study, we apply fluorescence correlation methods to ECHO probes targeting the poly(A) tail of mRNA. In this way, we demonstrate not only the visualization but also the quantification of the interaction between the probe and the target, as well as of the change in the fluorescence brightness and the diffusion coefficient caused by the binding. In particular, the uptake of ECHO probes to detect mRNA is demonstrated in HeLa cells. These results are expected to provide new insights that help us better understand the metabolism of intracellular mRNA.
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45
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Cai W, Ji J, Wu B, Hao K, Ren P, Jin Y, Yang L, Tong Q, Shen Z. Characterization of the small RNA transcriptomes of cell protrusions and cell bodies of highly metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma cells via RNA sequencing. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:568. [PMID: 34113396 PMCID: PMC8185705 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggest that hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) HCCLM3 cells initially develop pseudopodia when they metastasize, and microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been demonstrated to serve important roles in the development, progression and metastasis of cancer. The present study aimed to isolate the cell bodies (CBs) and cell protrusions (CPs) from HCCLM3 cells, and screen the miRNAs and circRNAs associated with HCC infiltration and metastasis in CBs and CPs. The Boyden chamber assay has been confirmed to effectively isolate the CBs and CPs from HCCLM3 cells via observation of microtubule immunofluorescence, DAPI staining and nuclear protein H3 western blotting. Following high-throughput sequencing of the successfully isolated CBs and CPs, 64 pairs of miRNAs, including 23 pairs of upregulated genes and 41 pairs of downregulated genes, and 260 sets of circRNAs, including 127 upregulated genes and 133 downregulated genes, were significantly differentially expressed, using the following criteria: HP/HB ratio, fold change ≥|1.5|, P<0.05). PCR analysis verified that changes in the expression levels of hsa-let-7a-5p, hsa-let-7c-3p, hsa-miR-30c-5p, hsa_circ_0059580, hsa_circ_0067475, hsa_circ_0002100 and hsa_circ_00072309 were consistent with the sequencing results. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses were performed to analyze the functions and roles of the differentially expressed miRNAs and circRNAs. The interaction maps between miRNAs and circRNAs were constructed, and signaling pathway maps were analyzed to determine the molecular mechanism and regulation of the differentially expressed miRNAs and circRNAs. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that the Boyden chamber assay can be used to effectively isolate the somatic CBs and CPs of HCC, which can be used to screen the miRNAs and circRNAs associated with invasion and metastasis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenpin Cai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wen Zhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Jingzhang Ji
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Biting Wu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Kaixuan Hao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Ping Ren
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Yu Jin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Lihong Yang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Qingchao Tong
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
| | - Zhifa Shen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, P.R. China
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46
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Chen EC, Maldonado RJK, Parent LJ. Visualizing Rous Sarcoma Virus Genomic RNA Dimerization in the Nucleus, Cytoplasm, and at the Plasma Membrane. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050903. [PMID: 34068261 PMCID: PMC8153106 DOI: 10.3390/v13050903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Retroviruses are unique in that they package their RNA genomes as non-covalently linked dimers. Failure to dimerize their genomes results in decreased infectivity and reduced packaging of genomic RNA into virus particles. Two models of retrovirus genome dimerization have been characterized: in murine leukemia virus (MLV), genomic RNA dimerization occurs co-transcriptionally in the nucleus, resulting in the preferential formation of genome homodimers; whereas in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1), genomic RNA dimerization occurs in the cytoplasm and at the plasma membrane, with a random distribution of heterodimers and homodimers. Although in vitro studies have identified the genomic RNA sequences that facilitate dimerization in Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), in vivo characterization of the location and preferences of genome dimerization has not been performed. In this study, we utilized three single molecule RNA imaging approaches to visualize genome dimers of RSV in cultured quail fibroblasts. The formation of genomic RNA heterodimers within cells was dependent on the presence of the dimerization initiation site (DIS) sequence in the L3 stem. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that heterodimers were present the nucleus, cytoplasm, and at the plasma membrane, indicating that genome dimers can form in the nucleus. Furthermore, single virion analysis revealed that RSV preferentially packages genome homodimers into virus particles. Therefore, the mechanism of RSV genomic RNA dimer formation appears more similar to MLV than HIV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice C. Chen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.C.C.); (R.J.K.M.)
| | - Rebecca J. Kaddis Maldonado
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.C.C.); (R.J.K.M.)
| | - Leslie J. Parent
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.C.C.); (R.J.K.M.)
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-717-531-7199
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Li Z, Zhang P, Zhang R, Wang X, Tse YC, Zhang H. A collection of toolkit strains reveals distinct localization and dynamics of membrane-associated transcripts in epithelia. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109072. [PMID: 33951426 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Visualizing mRNA in real time in vivo at high resolution is critical for a full understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of gene regulation and function. Here, using a PP7/PCP-based mRNA-tagging approach, we construct a collection of tissue-specific and differentially expressed toolkit strains for visualizing mRNAs encoding apical, basolateral, and junctional proteins in Caenorhabditis elegans epithelia. We precisely delineate the spatiotemporal organization and dynamics of these transcripts across multiple subcellular compartments and tissues. Remarkably, all the transcripts exhibit an asymmetric, membrane-associated localization during epithelial polarization and maturation, which suggests that mRNA localization is a prerequisite for epithelial polarization and function. Single-particle tracking reveals striking features of the transport dynamics of the mRNAs in a gene-specific, compartment-linked, and time-resolved manner. The toolkit can be used to identify the cis-regulatory elements and trans-acting factors for mRNA localization. This study provides a valuable resource to investigate complex RNA dynamics in epithelial polarity and morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Li
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Pei Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Ruotong Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Xinyan Wang
- Core Research Facilities, Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yu Chung Tse
- Core Research Facilities, Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Hongjie Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR 999078, China.
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48
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Hoppe C, Ashe HL. Live imaging and quantitation of nascent transcription using the MS2/MCP system in the Drosophila embryo. STAR Protoc 2021; 2:100379. [PMID: 33778778 PMCID: PMC7982776 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2021.100379] [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] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Visualizing transcription live in Drosophila is providing important new insights into the spatiotemporal regulation of transcription. Here, we describe a protocol to visualize and quantitate transcription from gene loci that are tagged with MS2 stem-loop sequences in the Drosophila embryo. MS2 stem-loop sequences are recognized by a coat protein fused to a fluorescent protein and visualized with microscopy. We also describe an analysis pipeline to extract and subsequently quantify transcription dynamics. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Hoppe et al. (2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Hoppe
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Hilary L. Ashe
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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49
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Zhang M, Yang C, Tasan I, Zhao H. Expanding the Potential of Mammalian Genome Engineering via Targeted DNA Integration. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:429-446. [PMID: 33596056 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.0c00576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Inserting custom designed DNA sequences into the mammalian genome plays an essential role in synthetic biology. In particular, the ability to introduce foreign DNA in a site-specific manner offers numerous advantages over random DNA integration. In this review, we focus on two mechanistically distinct systems that have been widely adopted for targeted DNA insertion in mammalian cells, the CRISPR/Cas9 system and site-specific recombinases. The CRISPR/Cas9 system has revolutionized the genome engineering field thanks to its high programmability and ease of use. However, due to its dependence on linearized DNA donor and endogenous cellular pathways to repair the induced double-strand break, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated DNA insertion still faces limitations such as small insert size, and undesired editing outcomes via error-prone repair pathways. In contrast, site-specific recombinases, in particular the Serine integrases, demonstrate large-cargo capability and no dependence on cellular repair pathways for DNA integration. Here we first describe recent advances in improving the overall efficacy of CRISPR/Cas9-based methods for DNA insertion. Moreover, we highlight the advantages of site-specific recombinases over CRISPR/Cas9 in the context of targeted DNA integration, with a special focus on the recent development of programmable recombinases. We conclude by discussing the importance of protein engineering to further expand the current toolkit for targeted DNA insertion in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Che Yang
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ipek Tasan
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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50
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Swetha P, Fan Z, Wang F, Jiang JH. Genetically encoded light-up RNA aptamers and their applications for imaging and biosensing. J Mater Chem B 2021; 8:3382-3392. [PMID: 31984401 DOI: 10.1039/c9tb02668a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular small ligands and biomacromolecules are playing crucial roles not only as executors but also as regulators. It is essential to develop tools to investigate their dynamics to interrogate their functions and reflect the cellular status. Light-up RNA aptamers are RNA sequences that can bind with their cognate nonfluorescent fluorogens and greatly activate their fluorescence. The emergence of genetically encoded light-up RNA aptamers has provided fascinating tools for studying intracellular small ligands and biomacromolecules owing to their high fluorescence activation degree and facile programmability. Here we review the burgeoning field of light-up RNA aptamers. We first briefly introduce light-up RNA aptamers with a focus on the photophysical properties of the fluorogens. Then design strategies of genetically encoded light-up RNA aptamer based sensors including turn-on, signal amplification and ratiometric rationales are emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puchakayala Swetha
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hu-nan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China.
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