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Zhou Z, Wang YQ, Zheng XN, Zhang XH, Ji LY, Han JY, Zuo ZC, Mo WL, Zhang L. Optimizing ABA-based chemically induced proximity for enhanced intracellular transcriptional activation and modification response to ABA. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2707-9. [PMID: 39172347 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2707-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA)-based chemically induced proximity (CIP) is primarily mediated by the interaction of the ABA receptor pyrabactin resistance 1-like 1 (PYL1) and the 2C-type protein phosphatase ABI1, which confers ABA-induced proximity to their fusion proteins, and offers precise temporal control of a wide array of biological processes. However, broad application of ABA-based CIP has been limited by ABA response intensity. In this study, we demonstrated that ABA-induced interaction between another ABA receptor pyrabactin resistance 1 (PYR1) and ABI1 exhibited higher ABA response intensity than that between PYL1 and ABI1 in HEK293T cells. We engineered PYR1-ABI1 and PYL1-ABI1 into ABA-induced transcriptional activation tools in mammalian cells by integration with CRISPR/dCas9 and found that the tool based on PYR1-ABI1 demonstrated better ABA response intensity than that based on PYL1-ABI1 for both exogenous and endogenous genes in mammalian cells. We further achieved ABA-induced RNA m6A modification installation and erasure by combining ABA-induced PYR1-ABI1 interaction with CRISPR/dCas13, successfully inhibiting tumor cell proliferation. We subsequently improved the interaction of PYR1-ABI1 through phage-assisted continuous evolution (PACE), successfully generating a PYR1 mutant (PYR1m) whose interaction with ABI1 exhibited a higher ABA response intensity than that of the wild-type. In addition, we tested the transcriptional activation tool based on PYRm-ABI1 and found that it also showed a higher ABA response intensity than that of the wild type. These results demonstrate that we have developed a novel ABA-based CIP and further improved upon it using PACE, providing a new approach for the modification of other CIP systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeng Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Yue-Qi Wang
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Xu-Nan Zheng
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Zhang
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Lu-Yao Ji
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Jun-You Han
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Ze-Cheng Zuo
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Wei-Liang Mo
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
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2
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Chen Y, Luo X, Kang R, Cui K, Ou J, Zhang X, Liang P. Current therapies for osteoarthritis and prospects of CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing in osteoarthritis treatment. J Genet Genomics 2024; 51:159-183. [PMID: 37516348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2023.07.007] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common degenerative joint diseases worldwide, causing pain, disability, and decreased quality of life. The balance between regeneration and inflammation-induced degradation results in multiple etiologies and complex pathogenesis of OA. Currently, there is a lack of effective therapeutic strategies for OA treatment. With the development of CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools, OA treatment has been improved by targeting genetic risk factors, activating chondrogenic elements, and modulating inflammatory regulators. Supported by cell therapy and in vivo delivery vectors, genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools may provide a promising approach for personalized OA therapy. This review summarizes CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools that can be applied to the treatment of OA and provides insights into the development of CRISPR-based therapeutics for OA treatment. Moreover, in-depth evaluations of the efficacy and safety of these tools in human OA treatment are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xiao Luo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Rui Kang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Kaixin Cui
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Jianping Ou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Xiya Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China.
| | - Puping Liang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
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3
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Noviello G, Gjaltema RAF. Fine-Tuning the Epigenetic Landscape: Chemical Modulation of Epigenome Editors. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2842:57-77. [PMID: 39012590 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4051-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Epigenome editing has emerged as a powerful technique for targeted manipulation of the chromatin and transcriptional landscape, employing designer DNA binding domains fused with effector domains, known as epi-editors. However, the constitutive expression of dCas9-based epi-editors presents challenges, including off-target activity and lack of temporal resolution. Recent advancements of dCas9-based epi-editors have addressed these limitations by introducing innovative switch systems that enable temporal control of their activity. These systems allow precise modulation of gene expression over time and offer a means to deactivate epi-editors, thereby reducing off-target effects associated with prolonged expression. The development of novel dCas9 effectors regulated by exogenous chemical signals has revolutionized temporal control in epigenome editing, significantly expanding the researcher's toolbox. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the current state of these cutting-edge systems and specifically discuss their advantages and limitations, offering context to better understand their capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Noviello
- Epigenetics & Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Rome, Italy
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rutger A F Gjaltema
- Molecular & Cellular Epigenetics, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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4
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Shaytan AK, Novikov RV, Vinnikov RS, Gribkova AK, Glukhov GS. From DNA-protein interactions to the genetic circuit design using CRISPR-dCas systems. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:1070526. [PMID: 36589238 PMCID: PMC9795063 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1070526] [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: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, the CRISPR-Cas technology has gained widespread popularity in different fields from genome editing and detecting specific DNA/RNA sequences to gene expression control. At the heart of this technology is the ability of CRISPR-Cas complexes to be programmed for targeting particular DNA loci, even when using catalytically inactive dCas-proteins. The repertoire of naturally derived and engineered dCas-proteins including fusion proteins presents a promising toolbox that can be used to construct functional synthetic genetic circuits. Rational genetic circuit design, apart from having practical relevance, is an important step towards a deeper quantitative understanding of the basic principles governing gene expression regulation and functioning of living organisms. In this minireview, we provide a succinct overview of the application of CRISPR-dCas-based systems in the emerging field of synthetic genetic circuit design. We discuss the diversity of dCas-based tools, their properties, and their application in different types of genetic circuits and outline challenges and further research directions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. K. Shaytan
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia,Department of Computer Science, HSE University, Moscow, Russia,*Correspondence: A. K. Shaytan,
| | - R. V. Novikov
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - R. S. Vinnikov
- Department of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - A. K. Gribkova
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - G. S. Glukhov
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia,Faculty of Biology, MSU-BIT Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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5
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Hasanzadeh A, Noori H, Jahandideh A, Haeri Moghaddam N, Kamrani Mousavi SM, Nourizadeh H, Saeedi S, Karimi M, Hamblin MR. Smart Strategies for Precise Delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 in Genome Editing. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2022; 5:413-437. [PMID: 35040621 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c01112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of CRISPR/Cas technology has enabled scientists to precisely edit genomic DNA sequences. This approach can be used to modulate gene expression for the treatment of genetic disorders and incurable diseases such as cancer. This potent genome-editing tool is based on a single guide RNA (sgRNA) strand that recognizes the targeted DNA, plus a Cas nuclease protein for binding and processing the target. CRISPR/Cas has great potential for editing many genes in different types of cells and organisms both in vitro and in vivo. Despite these remarkable advances, the risk of off-target effects has hindered the translation of CRISPR/Cas technology into clinical applications. To overcome this hurdle, researchers have devised gene regulatory systems that can be controlled in a spatiotemporal manner, by designing special sgRNA, Cas, and CRISPR/Cas delivery vehicles that are responsive to different stimuli, such as temperature, light, magnetic fields, ultrasound (US), pH, redox, and enzymatic activity. These systems can even respond to dual or multiple stimuli simultaneously, thereby providing superior spatial and temporal control over CRISPR/Cas gene editing. Herein, we summarize the latest advances on smart sgRNA, Cas, and CRISPR/Cas nanocarriers, categorized according to their stimulus type (physical, chemical, or biological).
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Affiliation(s)
- Akbar Hasanzadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Hamid Noori
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Atefeh Jahandideh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Niloofar Haeri Moghaddam
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Seyede Mahtab Kamrani Mousavi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Helena Nourizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Sara Saeedi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
| | - Mahdi Karimi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
- Research Center for Science and Technology in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 141556559, Iran
- Applied Biotechnology Research Centre, Tehran Medical Science, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 1584743311, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa
- Radiation Biology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
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6
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Khajanchi N, Saha K. Controlling CRISPR with small molecule regulation for somatic cell genome editing. Mol Ther 2022; 30:17-31. [PMID: 34174442 PMCID: PMC8753294 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomedical research has been revolutionized by the introduction of many CRISPR-Cas systems that induce programmable edits to nearly any gene in the human genome. Nuclease-based CRISPR-Cas editors can produce on-target genomic changes but can also generate unwanted genotoxicity and adverse events, in part by cleaving non-targeted sites in the genome. Additional translational challenges for in vivo somatic cell editing include limited packaging capacity of viral vectors and host immune responses. Altogether, these challenges motivate recent efforts to control the expression and activity of different Cas systems in vivo. Current strategies utilize small molecules, light, magnetism, and temperature to conditionally control Cas systems through various activation, inhibition, or degradation mechanisms. This review focuses on small molecules that can be incorporated as regulatory switches to control Cas genome editors. Additional development of CRISPR-Cas-based therapeutic approaches with small molecule regulation have high potential to increase editing efficiency with less adverse effects for somatic cell genome editing strategies in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namita Khajanchi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Krishanu Saha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA.
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7
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CRISPR-Based Genetic Switches and Other Complex Circuits: Research and Application. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11111255. [PMID: 34833131 PMCID: PMC8621321 DOI: 10.3390/life11111255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-based enzymes have offered a unique capability to the design of genetic switches, with advantages in designability, modularity and orthogonality. CRISPR-based genetic switches operate on multiple levels of life, including transcription and translation. In both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, deactivated CRISPR endonuclease and endoribonuclease have served in genetic switches for activating or repressing gene expression, at both transcriptional and translational levels. With these genetic switches, more complex circuits have been assembled to achieve sophisticated functions including inducible switches, non-linear response and logical biocomputation. As more CRISPR enzymes continue to be excavated, CRISPR-based genetic switches will be used in a much wider range of applications.
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8
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Jain S, Xun G, Abesteh S, Ho S, Lingamaneni M, Martin TA, Tasan I, Yang C, Zhao H. Precise Regulation of Cas9-Mediated Genome Engineering by Anti-CRISPR-Based Inducible CRISPR Controllers. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:1320-1327. [PMID: 34006094 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.0c00548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 is a powerful genome editing tool, but its off-target cleavage activity can result in unintended adverse outcomes for therapeutic applications. Here we report the design of a simple tunable CRISPR controller in which a chemically inducible anti-CRISPR protein AcrIIA4 is engineered to disable Cas9 DNA binding upon the addition of trimethoprim. Dose-dependent control over Cas9 editing and dCas9 induction was achieved, which drastically improved the specificity and biosafety of the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We utilized the anti-CRISPR protein AcrIIA4 as a means to interfere with Cas9 DNA binding activity. By fusing AcrIIA4 to a ligand-inducible destabilization domain DHFR(DD), we show significantly reduced off-target activity in mammalian cells. Furthermore, we describe a new inducible promoter system Acr-OFF based on CRISPR controllers, which is regulated by an FDA-approved ligand trimethoprim.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Guanhua Xun
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Shireen Abesteh
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Sherri Ho
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Manasi Lingamaneni
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Teresa A Martin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ipek Tasan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, 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
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, 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
- 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
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9
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Sgro A, Blancafort P. Epigenome engineering: new technologies for precision medicine. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 48:12453-12482. [PMID: 33196851 PMCID: PMC7736826 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromatin adopts different configurations that are regulated by reversible covalent modifications, referred to as epigenetic marks. Epigenetic inhibitors have been approved for clinical use to restore epigenetic aberrations that result in silencing of tumor-suppressor genes, oncogene addictions, and enhancement of immune responses. However, these drugs suffer from major limitations, such as a lack of locus selectivity and potential toxicities. Technological advances have opened a new era of precision molecular medicine to reprogram cellular physiology. The locus-specificity of CRISPR/dCas9/12a to manipulate the epigenome is rapidly becoming a highly promising strategy for personalized medicine. This review focuses on new state-of-the-art epigenome editing approaches to modify the epigenome of neoplasms and other disease models towards a more 'normal-like state', having characteristics of normal tissue counterparts. We highlight biomolecular engineering methodologies to assemble, regulate, and deliver multiple epigenetic effectors that maximize the longevity of the therapeutic effect, and we discuss limitations of the platforms such as targeting efficiency and intracellular delivery for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustin Sgro
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia.,School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Pilar Blancafort
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia.,School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia.,The Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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10
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Di Maria V, Moindrot M, Ryde M, Bono A, Quintino L, Ledri M. Development and Validation of CRISPR Activator Systems for Overexpression of CB1 Receptors in Neurons. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:168. [PMID: 33013319 PMCID: PMC7506083 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy approaches using viral vectors for the overexpression of target genes have been for several years the focus of gene therapy research against neurological disorders. These approaches deliver robust expression of therapeutic genes, but are typically limited to the delivery of single genes and often do not manipulate the expression of the endogenous locus. In the last years, the advent of CRISPR-Cas9 technologies have revolutionized many areas of scientific research by providing novel tools that allow simple and efficient manipulation of endogenous genes. One of the applications of CRISPR-Cas9, termed CRISPRa, based on the use of a nuclease-null Cas9 protein (dCas9) fused to transcriptional activators, enables quick and efficient increase in target endogenous gene expression. CRISPRa approaches are varied, and different alternatives exist with regards to the type of Cas9 protein and transcriptional activator used. Several of these approaches have been successfully used in neurons in vitro and in vivo, but have not been so far extensively applied for the overexpression of genes involved in synaptic transmission. Here we describe the development and application of two different CRISPRa systems, based on single or dual Lentiviral and Adeno-Associated viral vectors and VP64 or VPR transcriptional activators, and demonstrate their efficiency in increasing mRNA and protein expression of the Cnr1 gene, coding for neuronal CB1 receptors. Both approaches were similarly efficient in primary neuronal cultures, and achieved a 2–5-fold increase in Cnr1 expression, but the AAV-based approach was more efficient in vivo. Our dual AAV-based VPR system in particular, based on Staphylococcus aureus dCas9, when injected in the hippocampus, displayed almost complete simultaneous expression of both vectors, high levels of dCas9 expression, and good efficiency in increasing Cnr1 mRNA as measured by in situ hybridization. In addition, we also show significant upregulation of CB1 receptor protein in vivo, which is reflected by an increased ability in reducing neurotransmitter release, as measured by electrophysiology. Our results show that CRISPRa techniques could be successfully used in neurons to target overexpression of genes involved in synaptic transmission, and can potentially represent a next-generation gene therapy approach against neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Maria
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marine Moindrot
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Martin Ryde
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Antonino Bono
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Luis Quintino
- Laboratory of CNS Gene Therapy, Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marco Ledri
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurophysiology and Epilepsy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Epilepsy Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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11
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Directed Evolution of CRISPR/Cas Systems for Precise Gene Editing. Trends Biotechnol 2020; 39:262-273. [PMID: 32828556 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR technology is a universal tool for genome engineering that has revolutionized biotechnology. Recently identified unique CRISPR/Cas systems, as well as re-engineered Cas proteins, have rapidly expanded the functions and applications of CRISPR/Cas systems. The structures of Cas proteins are complex, containing multiple functional domains. These protein domains are evolutionarily conserved polypeptide units that generally show independent structural or functional properties. In this review, we propose using protein domains as a new way to classify protein engineering strategies for these proteins and discuss common ways to engineer key domains to modify the functions of CRISPR/Cas systems.
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12
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Lau CH, Tin C. The Synergy between CRISPR and Chemical Engineering. Curr Gene Ther 2020; 19:147-171. [PMID: 31267870 DOI: 10.2174/1566523219666190701100556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy and transgenic research have advanced quickly in recent years due to the development of CRISPR technology. The rapid development of CRISPR technology has been largely benefited by chemical engineering. Firstly, chemical or synthetic substance enables spatiotemporal and conditional control of Cas9 or dCas9 activities. It prevents the leaky expression of CRISPR components, as well as minimizes toxicity and off-target effects. Multi-input logic operations and complex genetic circuits can also be implemented via multiplexed and orthogonal regulation of target genes. Secondly, rational chemical modifications to the sgRNA enhance gene editing efficiency and specificity by improving sgRNA stability and binding affinity to on-target genomic loci, and hence reducing off-target mismatches and systemic immunogenicity. Chemically-modified Cas9 mRNA is also more active and less immunogenic than the native mRNA. Thirdly, nonviral vehicles can circumvent the challenges associated with viral packaging and production through the delivery of Cas9-sgRNA ribonucleoprotein complex or large Cas9 expression plasmids. Multi-functional nanovectors enhance genome editing in vivo by overcoming multiple physiological barriers, enabling ligand-targeted cellular uptake, and blood-brain barrier crossing. Chemical engineering can also facilitate viral-based delivery by improving vector internalization, allowing tissue-specific transgene expression, and preventing inactivation of the viral vectors in vivo. This review aims to discuss how chemical engineering has helped improve existing CRISPR applications and enable new technologies for biomedical research. The usefulness, advantages, and molecular action for each chemical engineering approach are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cia-Hin Lau
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Chung Tin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
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13
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Ding W, Zhang Y, Shi S. Development and Application of CRISPR/Cas in Microbial Biotechnology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:711. [PMID: 32695770 PMCID: PMC7338305 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated (Cas) system has been rapidly developed as versatile genomic engineering tools with high efficiency, accuracy and flexibility, and has revolutionized traditional methods for applications in microbial biotechnology. Here, key points of building reliable CRISPR/Cas system for genome engineering are discussed, including the Cas protein, the guide RNA and the donor DNA. Following an overview of various CRISPR/Cas tools for genome engineering, including gene activation, gene interference, orthogonal CRISPR systems and precise single base editing, we highlighted the application of CRISPR/Cas toolbox for multiplexed engineering and high throughput screening. We then summarize recent applications of CRISPR/Cas systems in metabolic engineering toward production of chemicals and natural compounds, and end with perspectives of future advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Ding
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Engineering and Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shuobo Shi
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
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14
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Breunig CT, Köferle A, Neuner AM, Wiesbeck MF, Baumann V, Stricker SH. CRISPR Tools for Physiology and Cell State Changes: Potential of Transcriptional Engineering and Epigenome Editing. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:177-211. [PMID: 32525760 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00034.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the large amount of genome-wide data that have been collected during the last decades, a good understanding of how and why cells change during development, homeostasis, and disease might be expected. Unfortunately, the opposite is true; triggers that cause cellular state changes remain elusive, and the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Although genes with the potential to influence cell states are known, the historic dependency on methods that manipulate gene expression outside the endogenous chromatin context has prevented us from understanding how cells organize, interpret, and protect cellular programs. Fortunately, recent methodological innovations are now providing options to answer these outstanding questions, by allowing to target and manipulate individual genomic and epigenomic loci. In particular, three experimental approaches are now feasible due to DNA targeting tools, namely, activation and/or repression of master transcription factors in their endogenous chromatin context; targeting transcription factors to endogenous, alternative, or inaccessible sites; and finally, functional manipulation of the chromatin context. In this article, we discuss the molecular basis of DNA targeting tools and review the potential of these new technologies before we summarize how these have already been used for the manipulation of cellular states and hypothesize about future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T Breunig
- MCN Junior Research Group, Munich Center for Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilian- Universität, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and Epigenetic Engineering, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Anna Köferle
- MCN Junior Research Group, Munich Center for Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilian- Universität, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and Epigenetic Engineering, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Andrea M Neuner
- MCN Junior Research Group, Munich Center for Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilian- Universität, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and Epigenetic Engineering, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Maximilian F Wiesbeck
- MCN Junior Research Group, Munich Center for Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilian- Universität, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and Epigenetic Engineering, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Valentin Baumann
- MCN Junior Research Group, Munich Center for Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilian- Universität, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and Epigenetic Engineering, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stefan H Stricker
- MCN Junior Research Group, Munich Center for Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilian- Universität, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and Epigenetic Engineering, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, BioMedical Center, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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15
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Abstract
Protein folding in the cell is mediated by an extensive network of >1,000 chaperones, quality control factors, and trafficking mechanisms collectively termed the proteostasis network. While the components and organization of this network are generally well established, our understanding of how protein-folding problems are identified, how the network components integrate to successfully address challenges, and what types of biophysical issues each proteostasis network component is capable of addressing remains immature. We describe a chemical biology-informed framework for studying cellular proteostasis that relies on selection of interesting protein-folding problems and precise researcher control of proteostasis network composition and activities. By combining these methods with multifaceted strategies to monitor protein folding, degradation, trafficking, and aggregation in cells, researchers continue to rapidly generate new insights into cellular proteostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Sebastian
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA;
| | - Matthew D Shoulders
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA;
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16
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Zhao W, Wang Y, Liang FS. Chemical and Light Inducible Epigenome Editing. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030998. [PMID: 32028669 PMCID: PMC7037166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The epigenome defines the unique gene expression patterns and resulting cellular behaviors in different cell types. Epigenome dysregulation has been directly linked to various human diseases. Epigenome editing enabling genome locus-specific targeting of epigenome modifiers to directly alter specific local epigenome modifications offers a revolutionary tool for mechanistic studies in epigenome regulation as well as the development of novel epigenome therapies. Inducible and reversible epigenome editing provides unique temporal control critical for understanding the dynamics and kinetics of epigenome regulation. This review summarizes the progress in the development of spatiotemporal-specific tools using small molecules or light as inducers to achieve the conditional control of epigenome editing and their applications in epigenetic research.
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17
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Klewer L, Wu Y. Light-Induced Dimerization Approaches to Control Cellular Processes. Chemistry 2019; 25:12452-12463. [PMID: 31304989 PMCID: PMC6790656 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201900562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [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: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Light-inducible approaches provide a means to control biological systems with spatial and temporal resolution that is unmatched by traditional genetic perturbations. Recent developments of optogenetic and chemo-optogenetic systems for induced proximity in cells facilitate rapid and reversible manipulation of highly dynamic cellular processes and have become valuable tools in diverse biological applications. New expansions of the toolbox facilitate control of signal transduction, genome editing, "painting" patterns of active molecules onto cellular membranes, and light-induced cell cycle control. A combination of light- and chemically induced dimerization approaches have also seen interesting progress. Herein, an overview of optogenetic systems and emerging chemo-optogenetic systems is provided, and recent applications in tackling complex biological problems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Klewer
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular PhysiologyOtto-Hahn-Str. 1144227DortmundGermany
| | - Yao‐Wen Wu
- Department of ChemistryUmeå Centre for Microbial ResearchUmeå University90187UmeåSweden
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular PhysiologyOtto-Hahn-Str. 1144227DortmundGermany
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18
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Abstract
The prokaryote-derived CRISPR-Cas genome editing systems have transformed our ability to manipulate, detect, image and annotate specific DNA and RNA sequences in living cells of diverse species. The ease of use and robustness of this technology have revolutionized genome editing for research ranging from fundamental science to translational medicine. Initial successes have inspired efforts to discover new systems for targeting and manipulating nucleic acids, including those from Cas9, Cas12, Cascade and Cas13 orthologues. Genome editing by CRISPR-Cas can utilize non-homologous end joining and homology-directed repair for DNA repair, as well as single-base editing enzymes. In addition to targeting DNA, CRISPR-Cas-based RNA-targeting tools are being developed for research, medicine and diagnostics. Nuclease-inactive and RNA-targeting Cas proteins have been fused to a plethora of effector proteins to regulate gene expression, epigenetic modifications and chromatin interactions. Collectively, the new advances are considerably improving our understanding of biological processes and are propelling CRISPR-Cas-based tools towards clinical use in gene and cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Pickar-Oliver
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Charles A Gersbach
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
- Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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19
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Truong VA, Hsu MN, Kieu Nguyen NT, Lin MW, Shen CC, Lin CY, Hu YC. CRISPRai for simultaneous gene activation and inhibition to promote stem cell chondrogenesis and calvarial bone regeneration. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:e74. [PMID: 30997496 PMCID: PMC6648329 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Calvarial bone healing remains difficult but may be improved by stimulating chondrogenesis of implanted stem cells. To simultaneously promote chondrogenesis and repress adipogenesis of stem cells, we built a CRISPRai system that comprised inactive Cas9 (dCas9), two fusion proteins as activation/repression complexes and two single guide RNA (sgRNA) as scaffolds for recruiting activator (sgRNAa) or inhibitor (sgRNAi). By plasmid transfection and co-expression in CHO cells, we validated that dCas9 coordinated with sgRNAa to recruit the activator for mCherry activation and also orchestrated with sgRNAi to recruit the repressor for d2EGFP inhibition, without cross interference. After changing the sgRNA sequence to target endogenous Sox9/PPAR-γ, we packaged the entire CRISPRai system into an all-in-one baculovirus for efficient delivery into rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSC) and verified simultaneous Sox9 activation and PPAR-γ repression. The activation/inhibition effects were further enhanced/prolonged by using the Cre/loxP-based hybrid baculovirus. The CRISPRai system delivered by the hybrid baculovirus stimulated chondrogenesis and repressed adipogenesis of rBMSC in 2D culture and promoted the formation of engineered cartilage in 3D culture. Importantly, implantation of the rBMSC engineered by the CRISPRai improved calvarial bone healing. This study paves a new avenue to translate the CRISPRai technology to regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vu Anh Truong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Mu-Nung Hsu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Nuong Thi Kieu Nguyen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Wei Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
- Biomedical Technology and Device Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Che Shen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Yu Lin
- Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Hu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
- Frontier Research Center on Fundamental and Applied Sciences of Matters, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
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20
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Rauch S, He E, Srienc M, Zhou H, Zhang Z, Dickinson BC. Programmable RNA-Guided RNA Effector Proteins Built from Human Parts. Cell 2019; 178:122-134.e12. [PMID: 31230714 PMCID: PMC6657360 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2019.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Epitranscriptomic regulation controls information flow through the central dogma and provides unique opportunities for manipulating cells at the RNA level. However, both fundamental studies and potential translational applications are impeded by a lack of methods to target specific RNAs with effector proteins. Here, we present CRISPR-Cas-inspired RNA targeting system (CIRTS), a protein engineering strategy for constructing programmable RNA control elements. We show that CIRTS is a simple and generalizable approach to deliver a range of effector proteins, including nucleases, degradation machinery, translational activators, and base editors to target transcripts. We further demonstrate that CIRTS is not only smaller than naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas programmable RNA binding systems but can also be built entirely from human protein parts. CIRTS provides a platform to probe fundamental RNA regulatory processes, and the human-derived nature of CIRTS provides a potential strategy to avoid immune issues when applied to epitranscriptome-modulating therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Rauch
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Emily He
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michael Srienc
- Pritzker School of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Huiqing Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Zijie Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Bryan C Dickinson
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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21
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Cunningham-Bryant D, Sun J, Fernandez B, Zalatan JG. CRISPR-Cas-Mediated Chemical Control of Transcriptional Dynamics in Yeast. Chembiochem 2019; 20:1519-1523. [PMID: 30710419 PMCID: PMC6570556 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201800823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic CRISPR-Cas transcription factors enable the construction of complex gene-expression programs, and chemically inducible systems allow precise control over the expression dynamics. To provide additional modes of regulatory control, we have constructed a chemically inducible CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) system in yeast that is mediated by recruitment to MS2-functionalized guide RNAs. We use reporter gene assays to systematically map the dose dependence, time dependence, and reversibility of the system. Because the recruitment function is encoded at the level of the guide RNA, it is straightforward to target multiple genes and independently regulate expression dynamics at individual targets. This approach provides a new method to engineer sophisticated, multigene programs with precise control over the dynamics of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jingwen Sun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, 36 Bagley Hall, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Brianna Fernandez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, 36 Bagley Hall, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Jesse G Zalatan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, 36 Bagley Hall, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
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22
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Deyell M, Ameta S, Nghe P. Large scale control and programming of gene expression using CRISPR. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 96:124-132. [PMID: 31181342 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The control of gene expression in cells and organisms allows to unveil gene to function relationships and to reprogram biological responses. Several systems, such as Zinc fingers, TALE (Transcription activator-like effectors), and siRNAs (small-interfering RNAs), have been exploited to achieve this. However, recent advances in Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats and Cas9 (CRISPR-Cas9) have overshadowed them due to high specificity, compatibility with many different organisms, and design flexibility. In this review we summarize state-of-the art for CRISPR-Cas9 technology for large scale gene perturbation studies, including single gene and multiple genes knock-out, knock-down, knock-up libraries, and their associated screening assays. We feature in particular the combination of these methods with single-cell transcriptomics approaches. Finally, we highlight the application of CRISPR-Cas9 systems in building synthetic circuits that can be interfaced with gene networks to control cellular states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Deyell
- Laboratoire de Biochimie, CNRS UMR8231, Chimie Biologie Innovation, PSL Research University, ESPCI Paris, 10 Rue Vauquelin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Sandeep Ameta
- Laboratoire de Biochimie, CNRS UMR8231, Chimie Biologie Innovation, PSL Research University, ESPCI Paris, 10 Rue Vauquelin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Nghe
- Laboratoire de Biochimie, CNRS UMR8231, Chimie Biologie Innovation, PSL Research University, ESPCI Paris, 10 Rue Vauquelin, 75005, Paris, France.
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23
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Therapeutic application of the CRISPR system: current issues and new prospects. Hum Genet 2019; 138:563-590. [DOI: 10.1007/s00439-019-02028-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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24
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Kundert K, Lucas JE, Watters KE, Fellmann C, Ng AH, Heineike BM, Fitzsimmons CM, Oakes BL, Qu J, Prasad N, Rosenberg OS, Savage DF, El-Samad H, Doudna JA, Kortemme T. Controlling CRISPR-Cas9 with ligand-activated and ligand-deactivated sgRNAs. Nat Commun 2019; 10:2127. [PMID: 31073154 PMCID: PMC6509140 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09985-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas9 system provides the ability to edit, repress, activate, or mark any gene (or DNA element) by pairing of a programmable single guide RNA (sgRNA) with a complementary sequence on the DNA target. Here we present a new method for small-molecule control of CRISPR-Cas9 function through insertion of RNA aptamers into the sgRNA. We show that CRISPR-Cas9-based gene repression (CRISPRi) can be either activated or deactivated in a dose-dependent fashion over a >10-fold dynamic range in response to two different small-molecule ligands. Since our system acts directly on each target-specific sgRNA, it enables new applications that require differential and opposing temporal control of multiple genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kale Kundert
- Graduate Group in Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| | - James E Lucas
- UC Berkeley - UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Kyle E Watters
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Christof Fellmann
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Andrew H Ng
- UC Berkeley - UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Benjamin M Heineike
- Bioinformatics Graduate Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Christina M Fitzsimmons
- Chemistry and Chemical Biology Graduate Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Benjamin L Oakes
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Jiuxin Qu
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Neha Prasad
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Oren S Rosenberg
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - David F Savage
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Hana El-Samad
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Jennifer A Doudna
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | - Tanja Kortemme
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
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25
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Gangopadhyay SA, Cox KJ, Manna D, Lim D, Maji B, Zhou Q, Choudhary A. Precision Control of CRISPR-Cas9 Using Small Molecules and Light. Biochemistry 2019; 58:234-244. [PMID: 30640437 PMCID: PMC6586488 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.8b01202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat)-Cas system is an adaptive immune system of bacteria that has furnished several RNA-guided DNA endonucleases (e.g., Cas9) that are revolutionizing the field of genome engineering. Cas9 is being used to effect genomic alterations as well as in gene drives, where a particular trait may be propagated through a targeted species population over several generations. The ease of targeting catalytically impaired Cas9 to any genomic loci has led to development of technologies for base editing, chromatin imaging and modeling, epigenetic editing, and gene regulation. Unsurprisingly, Cas9 is being developed for numerous applications in biotechnology and biomedical research and as a gene therapy agent for multiple pathologies. There is a need for precise control of Cas9 activity over several dimensions, including those of dose, time, and space in these applications. Such precision controls, which are required of therapeutic agents, are particularly important for Cas9 as off-target effects, chromosomal translocations, immunogenic response, genotoxicity, and embryonic mosaicism are observed at elevated levels and with prolonged activity of Cas9. Here, we provide a perspective on advances in the precision control of Cas9 over aforementioned dimensions using external stimuli (e.g., small molecules or light) for controlled activation, inhibition, or degradation of Cas9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumyashree A. Gangopadhyay
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Kurt J. Cox
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Debasish Manna
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Donghyun Lim
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Basudeb Maji
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Qingxuan Zhou
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Amit Choudhary
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Divisions of Renal Medicine and Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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26
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Xu X, Qi LS. A CRISPR–dCas Toolbox for Genetic Engineering and Synthetic Biology. J Mol Biol 2019; 431:34-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2018.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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27
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Abstract
In a swift revolution, CRISPR/Cas9 has reshaped the means and ease of interrogating biological questions. Particularly, mutants that result in a nuclease-deactivated Cas9 (dCas9) provide scientists with tools to modulate transcription of genomic loci at will by targeting transcriptional effector domains. To interrogate the temporal order of events during transcriptional regulation, rapidly inducible CRISPR/dCas9 systems provide previously unmet molecular tools. In only a few years of time, numerous light and chemical-inducible switches have been applied to CRISPR/dCas9 to generate dCas9 switches. As these inducible switch systems are able to modulate dCas9 directly at the protein level, they rapidly affect dCas9 stability, activity, or target binding and subsequently rapidly influence downstream transcriptional events. Here we review the current state of such biotechnological CRISPR/dCas9 enhancements. Specifically we provide details on their flaws and strengths and on the differences in molecular design between the switch systems. With this we aim to provide a selection guide for researchers with keen interest in rapid temporal control over transcriptional modulation through the CRISPR/dCas9 system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rutger A F Gjaltema
- Otto-Warburg-Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Edda G Schulz
- Otto-Warburg-Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
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28
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Nihongaki Y, Otabe T, Sato M. Emerging Approaches for Spatiotemporal Control of Targeted Genome with Inducible CRISPR-Cas9. Anal Chem 2017; 90:429-439. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.7b04757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Nihongaki
- Graduate School
of Arts and
Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
| | - Takahiro Otabe
- Graduate School
of Arts and
Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
| | - Moritoshi Sato
- Graduate School
of Arts and
Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
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Switchable Cas9. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2017; 48:119-126. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2017.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Revised: 03/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Tak YE, Kleinstiver BP, Nuñez JK, Hsu JY, Horng JE, Gong J, Weissman JS, Joung JK. Inducible and multiplex gene regulation using CRISPR-Cpf1-based transcription factors. Nat Methods 2017; 14:1163-1166. [PMID: 29083402 PMCID: PMC5909187 DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.4483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Targeted and inducible regulation of mammalian gene expression is a broadly important capability. We engineered drug-inducible catalytically inactive Cpf1 fused to transcriptional activation domains to tune the expression of endogenous genes in human cells. Leveraging the multiplex capability of the Cpf1 platform, we demonstrate both synergistic and combinatorial gene expression in human cells. Our work should enable the development of multiplex gene perturbation library screens for understanding complex cellular phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Esther Tak
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Center for Cancer Research, and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Benjamin P Kleinstiver
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Center for Cancer Research, and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James K Nuñez
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jonathan Y Hsu
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Center for Cancer Research, and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joy E Horng
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Center for Cancer Research, and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jingyi Gong
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Center for Cancer Research, and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan S Weissman
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - J Keith Joung
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Center for Cancer Research, and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Abstract
The discovery and adaption of bacterial clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated (Cas) systems has revolutionized the way researchers edit genomes. Engineering of catalytically inactivated Cas variants (nuclease-deficient or nuclease-deactivated [dCas]) combined with transcriptional repressors, activators, or epigenetic modifiers enable sequence-specific regulation of gene expression and chromatin state. These CRISPR-Cas-based technologies have contributed to the rapid development of disease models and functional genomics screening approaches, which can facilitate genetic target identification and drug discovery. In this short review, we will cover recent advances of CRISPR-dCas9 systems and their use for transcriptional repression and activation, epigenome editing, and engineered synthetic circuits for complex control of the mammalian genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Lo
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Lei Qi
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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