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Resnik DB, Medina RF, Gould F, Church G, Kuzma J. Genes drive organisms and slippery slopes. Pathog Glob Health 2024; 118:348-357. [PMID: 36562087 PMCID: PMC11234912 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2022.2160895] [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: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The bioethical debate about using gene drives to alter or eradicate wild populations has focused mostly on issues concerning short-term risk assessment and management, governance and oversight, and public and community engagement, but has not examined big-picture- 'where is this going?'-questions in great depth. In other areas of bioethical controversy, big-picture questions often enter the public forum via slippery slope arguments. Given the incredible potential of gene drive organisms to alter the Earth's biota, it is somewhat surprising that slippery slope arguments have not played a more prominent role in ethical and policy debates about these emerging technologies. In this article, we examine a type of slippery slope argument against using gene drives to alter or suppress wild pest populations and consider whether it has a role to play in ethical and policy debates. Although we conclude that this argument does not provide compelling reasons for banning the use of gene drives in wild pest populations, we believe that it still has value as a morally instructive cautionary narrative that can motivate scientists, ethicists, and members of the public to think more clearly about appropriate vs. inappropriate uses of gene drive technologies, the long-term and cumulative and emergent risks of using gene drives in wild populations, and steps that can be taken to manage these risks, such as protecting wilderness areas where people can enjoy life forms that have not been genetically engineered.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Resnik
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Raul F. Medina
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Fred Gould
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - George Church
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer Kuzma
- School of Public and International Affairs, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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2
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Chae K, Contreras B, Romanowski JS, Dawson C, Myles KM, Adelman ZN. Transgene removal using an in cis programmed homing endonuclease via single-strand annealing in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Commun Biol 2024; 7:660. [PMID: 38811748 PMCID: PMC11137009 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06348-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
While gene drive strategies have been proposed to aid in the control of mosquito-borne diseases, additional genome engineering technologies may be required to establish a defined end-of-product-life timeline. We previously demonstrated that single-strand annealing (SSA) was sufficient to program the scarless elimination of a transgene while restoring a disrupted gene in the disease vector mosquito Aedes aegypti. Here, we extend these findings by establishing that complete transgene removal (four gene cassettes comprising ~8-kb) can be programmed in cis. Reducing the length of the direct repeat from 700-bp to 200-bp reduces, but does not eliminate, SSA activity. In contrast, increasing direct repeat length to 1.5-kb does not increase SSA rates, suggesting diminishing returns above a certain threshold size. Finally, we show that while the homing endonuclease Y2-I-AniI triggered both SSA and NHEJ at significantly higher rates than I-SceI at one genomic locus (P5-EGFP), repair events are heavily skewed towards NHEJ at another locus (kmo), suggesting the nuclease used and the genomic region targeted have a substantial influence on repair outcomes. Taken together, this work establishes the feasibility of engineering temporary transgenes in disease vector mosquitoes, while providing critical details concerning important operational parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keun Chae
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Bryan Contreras
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Joseph S Romanowski
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Chanell Dawson
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Kevin M Myles
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Zach N Adelman
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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3
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Dong Y, Xu X, Qian L, Kou Z, Andongma AA, Zhou L, Huang Y, Wang Y. Genome-wide identification of yellow gene family in Hermetia illucens and functional analysis of yellow-y by CRISPR/Cas9. INSECT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 38685755 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The yellow gene family plays a crucial role in insect pigmentation. It has potential for use as a visible marker gene in genetic manipulation and transgenic engineering in several model and non-model insects. Sadly, yellow genes have rarely been identified in Stratiomyidae species and the functions of yellow genes are relatively unknown. In the present study, we first manually annotated and curated 10 yellow genes in the black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens (Stratiomyidae). Then, the conserved amino acids in the major royal jelly proteins (MRJPs) domain, structural architecture and phylogenetic relationship of yellow genes in BSF were analyzed. We found that the BSF yellow-y, yellow-c and yellow-f genes are expressed at all developmental stages, especially in the prepupal stage. Using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system, we successfully disrupted yellow-y, yellow-c and yellow-f in the BSF. Consequently, the mutation of yellow-y clearly resulted in a pale-yellow body color in prepupae, pupae and adults, instead of the typical black body color of the wild type. However, the mutation of yellow-c or yellow-f genes did not result in any change in color of the insects, when compared with the wild type. Our study indicates that the BSF yellow-y gene plays a role in body pigmentation, providing an optimal marker gene for the genetic manipulation of BSF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongcheng Dong
- Key Laboratory of Biology and Sustainable Management of Plant Diseases and Pests of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaomiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Biology and Sustainable Management of Plant Diseases and Pests of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Lansa Qian
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, CAS, Shanghai, China
| | - Zongqing Kou
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, CAS, Shanghai, China
| | - Awawing A Andongma
- Insect and Parasite Ecology Group, Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Lijun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Biology and Sustainable Management of Plant Diseases and Pests of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yongping Huang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaohui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biology and Sustainable Management of Plant Diseases and Pests of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, College of Plant Protection, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
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Puig-Torrents M, Díez J. Controlling arbovirus infection: high-throughput transcriptome and proteome insights. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1330303. [PMID: 38414768 PMCID: PMC10896924 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1330303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Arboviruses pose a significant threat to public health globally, demanding innovative approaches for their control. For this, a better understanding of the complex web of interactions established in arbovirus-infected mosquitoes is fundamental. High-throughput analyses allow a genome-wide view of arbovirus-induced alterations at different gene expression levels. This review provides a comprehensive perspective into the current literature in transcriptome and proteome landscapes in mosquitoes infected with arboviruses. It also proposes a coordinated research effort to define the critical nodes that determine arbovirus infection and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juana Díez
- Molecular Virology Group, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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Zhao J, Jiang Y, Hoffmann A, Tan Y, Xiao L. SeBLOS2 knockout via CRISPR/Cas9 leads to the loss of larval integument coloration in Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 114:e22040. [PMID: 37622407 DOI: 10.1002/arch.22040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 technology is a precise and powerful tool for functionally exploring insect genes. The present study tested CRISPR/Cas9 as a way of undertaking effective gene mutagenesis in an important agricultural pest, the beet armyworm Spodoptera exigua. Based on a S. exigua transcriptome database, the entire complementary DNA sequence of SeBLOS2 encoding 140 amino acid residues was cloned. The gene was highly expressed in late larval stages (L3-L5). Using the CRISPR/Cas9 method, SeBLOS2 was knocked out by altering two sites in the coding region. This resulted in 70%-74% of the G0 generation (L4-L5) larvae displaying mosaic translucent integument. Four different mutations occurred at SeBLOS2-specific target sites, as demonstrated by further polymerase chain reaction-based genotypic analysis. Homozygote mutant L3 larvae were obtained in the G1 generation, with complete loss of white stripes and spots on their larval integument. These results demonstrate a crucial role of SeBLOS2 in integument pigmentation and suggest that the gene can act as a suitable nonlethal marker for functional research on genes in S. exigua and other Lepidopteran pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety of Jiangsu Province-State Key Laboratory Breeding Base, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Science, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiping Jiang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Ary Hoffmann
- Faculty of Science, Pest and Environmental Adaptation Research Group, Bio21 Institute, School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Yongan Tan
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Liubin Xiao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
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Contreras B, Adelman ZN, Chae K. Evaluating the Mating Competency of Genetically Modified Male Mosquitoes in Laboratory Conditions. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2023; 4:1106671. [PMID: 37860147 PMCID: PMC10586724 DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2023.1106671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Efforts to eradicate mosquito-borne diseases have increased the demand for genetic control strategies, many of which involve the release of genetically modified (GM) mosquito males into natural populations. The first hurdle for GM males is to compete with their wild-type counterparts for access to females. Here, we introduce an eye color-based mating assay, in which both Lvp wild-type and kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (kmo)-null males compete for access to kmo-null females, and therefore the eye color phenotype (black or white) of the progeny is dependent on the parental mating pair. A series of tests addressed that male mating competitiveness between the two strains can significantly be influenced by adult density, light intensity, and mating duration. Interestingly, the mating competitiveness of males was not correlated with body size, which was negatively influenced by a high larval density. Lastly, this eye color-associated assay was applied to characterize GM mosquitoes in their mating competitiveness, establishing this method as a fast and precise way of benchmarking this fitness parameter for laboratory-raised males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Contreras
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Zach N. Adelman
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Keun Chae
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Barillas-Mury C, Ribeiro JMC, Valenzuela JG. Understanding pathogen survival and transmission by arthropod vectors to prevent human disease. Science 2022; 377:eabc2757. [PMID: 36173836 DOI: 10.1126/science.abc2757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Many endemic poverty-associated diseases, such as malaria and leishmaniasis, are transmitted by arthropod vectors. Pathogens must interact with specific molecules in the vector gut, the microbiota, and the vector immune system to survive and be transmitted. The vertebrate host, in turn, is infected when the pathogen and vector-derived factors, such as salivary proteins, are delivered into the skin by a vector bite. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of the biology of pathogen transmission from the human to the vector and back, from the vector to the host. We also highlight recent advances in the biology of vector-borne disease transmission, which have translated into additional strategies to prevent human disease by either reducing vector populations or by disrupting their ability to transmit pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Barillas-Mury
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
| | - José M C Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
| | - Jesus G Valenzuela
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
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Xu L, Li B, Liu H, Zhang H, Liu R, Yu H, Li D. CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Knockout Reveals the Involvement of CYP304F1 in β-Cypermethrin and Chlorpyrifos Resistance in Spodoptera litura. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:11192-11200. [PMID: 36043880 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c04352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Functions of insect CYP2 clan P450s in insecticide resistance are relatively less reported. In Spodoptera litura, a gene from the CYP2 clan (CYP304F1) was validated to be up-regulated significantly in a pyrethroid- and organophosphate-resistant population (QJ) than a susceptible population by RNA-Seq and qRT-PCR. Spatial-temporal expression indicated the high expression of CYP304F1 in the fourth, fifth, and sixth instar larvae and the metabolism-related tissue fat body and malpighian tubules. CYP304F1 was knocked out by CRISPR/Cas9, and a homozygous population (QJ-CYP304F1) with a G-base deletion at exon 2 was obtained after selection. Bioassay results showed that the LD50 values to β-cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos in the QJ-CYP304F1 population decreased significantly, and the resistance ratio was both 1.81-fold in the QJ population compared with that in the QJ-CYP304F1 population. The toxicity of fenvalerate, cyhalothrin, or phoxim showed no significant change. These results suggested that CYP304F1 is involved in β-cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos resistance in S. litura.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- College of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Creation & Intelligent Pesticide Residue Sensor Detection, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Bo Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Hongyu Liu
- College of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Hongwei Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Creation & Intelligent Pesticide Residue Sensor Detection, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Runqiang Liu
- College of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Creation & Intelligent Pesticide Residue Sensor Detection, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Hao Yu
- College of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Creation & Intelligent Pesticide Residue Sensor Detection, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Dongzhi Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Green Pesticide Creation & Intelligent Pesticide Residue Sensor Detection, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
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9
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Bi H, Xu X, Li X, Wang Y, Zhou S, Huang Y. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated Serine protease 2 disruption induces male sterility in Spodoptera litura. Front Physiol 2022; 13:931824. [PMID: 35991171 PMCID: PMC9382020 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.931824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Male fertility is essential for reproduction and population growth in animals. Many factors affect male fertility, such as courtship behavior, sperm quantity, and sperm motility, among others. Seminal Fluid Proteins (SFPs) are vital components of seminal fluid in the male ejaculate, which affect male fertility, sperm activation, and female ovulation. However, the knowledge of SFPs is insufficient; the function of many SFPs remains unknown, and most described functions were mainly characterized in Drosophila or other laboratory models. Here, we focus on the Serine protease 2 (Ser2) gene in the lepidopteran pest Spodoptera litura. The Ser2 gene was specifically expressed in male adults. Disruption of the Ser2 gene mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 induced male sterility but females remained fertile. PCR-based detection of the next-generation mutants showed that male sterility was stably inherited. The qRT-PCR analysis of SlSer2 mutants showed that motor protein family genes and structural protein family genes were down-regulated, while protein modification family genes were up-regulated, suggesting that SlSer2 may be involved in sperm movement and activity. These results demonstrate that Ser2 is an important component of SFPs in seminal fluid and was identified for a useful sterile gene for pest control that may lead to new control strategies for lepidopteran insect pests such as S. litura.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglun Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xia Xu
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea Research, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Li
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences/Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaohui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences/Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shutang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shutang Zhou, ; Yongping Huang,
| | - Yongping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences/Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shutang Zhou, ; Yongping Huang,
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10
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Chae K, Dawson C, Valentin C, Contreras B, Zapletal J, Myles KM, Adelman ZN. Engineering a self-eliminating transgene in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac037. [PMID: 36713320 PMCID: PMC9802104 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Promising genetics-based approaches are being developed to reduce or prevent the transmission of mosquito-vectored diseases. Less clear is how such transgenes can be removed from the environment, a concern that is particularly relevant for highly invasive gene drive transgenes. Here, we lay the groundwork for a transgene removal system based on single-strand annealing (SSA), a eukaryotic DNA repair mechanism. An SSA-based rescuer strain (kmoRG ) was engineered to have direct repeat sequences (DRs) in the Aedes aegypti kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (kmo) gene flanking the intervening transgenic cargo genes, DsRED and EGFP. Targeted induction of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in the DsRED transgene successfully triggered complete elimination of the entire cargo from the kmoRG strain, restoring the wild-type kmo gene, and thereby, normal eye pigmentation. Our work establishes the framework for strategies to remove transgene sequences during the evaluation and testing of modified strains for genetics-based mosquito control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keun Chae
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Chanell Dawson
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Collin Valentin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Bryan Contreras
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Josef Zapletal
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Kevin M Myles
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Chae K, Valentin C, Dawson C, Jakes E, Myles KM, Adelman ZN. A knockout screen of genes expressed specifically in Ae. aegypti pupae reveals a critical role for stretchin in mosquito flight. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 132:103565. [PMID: 33716097 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2021.103565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is a critical vector for transmitting Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever viruses to humans. Genetic strategies to limit mosquito survival based upon sex distortion or disruption of development may be valuable new tools to control Ae. aegypti populations. We identified six genes with expression limited to pupal development; osi8 and osi11 (Osiris protein family), CPRs and CPF (cuticle protein family), and stretchin (a muscle protein). Heritable CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knockout of these genes did not reveal any defects in pupal development. However, stretchin-null mutations (strnΔ35/Δ41) resulted in flightless mosquitoes with an abnormal open wing posture. The inability of adult strnΔ35/Δ41 mosquitoes to fly restricted their escape from aquatic rearing media following eclosion, and substantially reduced adult survival rates. Transgenic strains which contain the EGFP marker gene under the control of strn regulatory regions (0.8 kb, 1.4 kb, and 2.2 kb upstream, respectively), revealed the gene expression pattern of strn in muscle-like tissues in the thorax during late morphogenesis from L4 larvae to young adults. We demonstrated that Ae. aegypti pupae-specific strn is critical for adult mosquito flight capability and a key late-acting lethal target for mosquito-borne disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keun Chae
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Collin Valentin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Chanell Dawson
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Emma Jakes
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Kevin M Myles
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Zach N Adelman
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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12
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Morowvat MH. CRISPeering: Bioengineering the Host Cells through CRISPR-Cas9 Genome Editing System as the Next-Generation of Cell Factories. Recent Pat Biotechnol 2021; 15:137-147. [PMID: 33874877 DOI: 10.2174/1872208315666210419102117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nowadays, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system has become a popular bioengineering-based tool for various applications. Owing to its high-target specificity, efficiency, versatility and simplicity, it has gained attraction as a robust tool for molecular biology research, which unveils the biological functions of unstudied genes. As well as engineering the metabolic pathways. Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, and Escherichia coli, are regarded as the most commonly used expression platforms for industrial-scale production of recombinant proteins. The immergence of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system, will promote the current status of expression hosts towards controllable and predictable strains. OBJECTIVES Here, I present the current status of expression hosts for biopharmaceuticals production. Some major accomplishments in utilization of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing tool in different prokaryotic and eukaryotic system will be discussed and more importantly the future directions of this newly arrived technology to make the next-generation cell factories with improved or novel properties will be suggested. Besides, the challenges facing with recent patents on this field is discussed as well. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing tool has been adopted to be utilized in some major expression platforms. CRISPeering has been successfully employed for genome editing in different prokaryotic and eukaryotic host cells. The immergence of systems metabolic engineering, systems biology and synthetic biology will fortify the current situation of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Morowvat
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 71468-64685, Shiraz. Iran
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13
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de Graeff N, Jongsma KR, Bredenoord AL. Experts' moral views on gene drive technologies: a qualitative interview study. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:25. [PMID: 33685438 PMCID: PMC7938529 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00588-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gene drive technologies (GDTs) promote the rapid spread of a particular genetic element within a population of non-human organisms. Potential applications of GDTs include the control of insect vectors, invasive species and agricultural pests. Whether, and if so, under what conditions, GDTs should be deployed is hotly debated. Although broad stances in this debate have been described, the convictions that inform the moral views of the experts shaping these technologies and related policies have not been examined in depth in the academic literature. Methods In this qualitative study, we interviewed GDT experts (n = 33) from different disciplines to identify and better understand their moral views regarding these technologies. The pseudonymized transcripts were analyzed thematically. Results The respondents’ moral views were principally influenced by their attitudes towards (1) the uncertainty related to GDTs; (2) the alternatives to which they should be compared; and (3) the role humans should have in nature. Respondents agreed there is epistemic uncertainty related to GDTs, identified similar knowledge gaps, and stressed the importance of realistic expectations in discussions on GDTs. They disagreed about whether uncertainty provides a rationale to refrain from field trials (‘risks of intervention’ stance) or to proceed with phased testing to obtain more knowledge given the harms of the status quo (‘risks of non-intervention’ stance). With regards to alternatives to tackle vector-borne diseases, invasive species and agricultural pests, respondents disagreed about which alternatives should be considered (un)feasible and (in)sufficiently explored: conventional strategies (‘downstream solutions’ stance) or systematic changes to health care, political and agricultural systems (‘upstream solutions’ stance). Finally, respondents held different views on nature and whether the use of GDTs is compatible with humans’ role in nature (‘interference’ stance) or not (‘non-interference stance’). Conclusions This interview study helps to disentangle the debate on GDTs by providing a better understanding of the moral views of GDT experts. The obtained insights provide valuable stepping-stones for a constructive debate about underlying value conflicts and call attention to topics that deserve further (normative) reflection. Further evaluation of these issues can facilitate the debate on and responsible development of GDTs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12910-021-00588-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- N de Graeff
- Department of Medical Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Karin R Jongsma
- Department of Medical Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annelien L Bredenoord
- Department of Medical Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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14
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Greenbaum G, Feldman MW, Rosenberg NA, Kim J. Designing gene drives to limit spillover to non-target populations. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009278. [PMID: 33630838 PMCID: PMC7943199 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The prospect of utilizing CRISPR-based gene-drive technology for controlling populations has generated much excitement. However, the potential for spillovers of gene-drive alleles from the target population to non-target populations has raised concerns. Here, using mathematical models, we investigate the possibility of limiting spillovers to non-target populations by designing differential-targeting gene drives, in which the expected equilibrium gene-drive allele frequencies are high in the target population but low in the non-target population. We find that achieving differential targeting is possible with certain configurations of gene-drive parameters, but, in most cases, only under relatively low migration rates between populations. Under high migration, differential targeting is possible only in a narrow region of the parameter space. Because fixation of the gene drive in the non-target population could severely disrupt ecosystems, we outline possible ways to avoid this outcome. We apply our model to two potential applications of gene drives—field trials for malaria-vector gene drives and control of invasive species on islands. We discuss theoretical predictions of key requirements for differential targeting and their practical implications. CRISPR-based gene drive is an emerging genetic engineering technology that enables engineered genetic variants, which are usually designed to be harmful to the organism carrying them, to be spread rapidly in populations. Although this technology is promising for controlling disease vectors and invasive species, there is a considerable risk that a gene drive could unintentionally spillover from the target population, where it was deployed, to non-target populations. We develop mathematical models of gene-drive dynamics that incorporate migration between target and non-target populations to investigate the possibility of effectively applying a gene drive in the target population while limiting its spillover to non-target populations (‘differential targeting’). We observe that the feasibility of differential targeting depends on the gene-drive design specification, as well as on the migration rates between the populations. Even when differential targeting is possible, as migration increases, the possibility for differential targeting disappears. We find that differential targeting can be effective for low migration rates, and that it is sensitive to the design of the gene drive under high migration rates. We suggest that differential targeting could be used, in combination with other mitigation measures, as an additional safeguard to limit gene drive spillovers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gili Greenbaum
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- * E-mail:
| | - Marcus W. Feldman
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Noah A. Rosenberg
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Jaehee Kim
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
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15
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Hillary VE, Ceasar SA. Genome engineering in insects for the control of vector borne diseases. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 179:197-223. [PMID: 33785177 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Insects cause many vector-borne infectious diseases and have become a major threat to human health. Although many control measures are undertaken, some insects are resistant to it, exacerbated by environmental changes which is a major challenge for control measures. Genetic studies by targeting the genomes of insects may offer an alternative strategy. Developments with novel genome engineering technologies have stretched our ability to target and modify any genomic sequence in Eukaryotes including insects. Genome engineering tools such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and most recently discovered, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) systems hold the potential to control the vector-borne diseases. In this chapter, we review the vector control strategy undertaken by employing three major genome engineering tools (ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas9) and discuss the future prospects of this system to control insect vectors. Finally, we also discuss the CRISPR-based gene drive system and its concerns due to ecological impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Edwin Hillary
- Division of Biotechnology, Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Antony Ceasar
- Division of Biotechnology, Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India; Division of Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biosciences, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Kalamassery, Kochi, India.
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16
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Batool A, Malik F, Andrabi KI. Expansion of the CRISPR/Cas Genome-Sculpting Toolbox: Innovations, Applications and Challenges. Mol Diagn Ther 2020; 25:41-57. [PMID: 33185860 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-020-00500-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of the versatile gene-editing technology using programmable sequence-specific endonuclease system (CRISPR-Cas9) has instigated a major upheaval in biomedical research. In a brief span of time, CRISPR/Cas has been adopted by research labs around the globe because of its potential for significant progress and applicability in terms of efficiency, versatility and simplicity. It is a breakthrough technique for systematic genetic engineering, genome labelling, epigenetic and transcriptional modulation, and multiplexed gene editing, amongst others. This review provides an illustrative overview of the current research trends using CRISPR/Cas technology. We highlight the latest developments in CRISPR/Cas technique including CRISPR imaging, discovery of novel CRISPR systems, and applications in altering the genome, epigenome or RNA in different organisms. Finally, we address the potential challenges of this technique for its future use. Development of new CRISPR/Cas systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asiya Batool
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Branch Srinagar, Jammu, J&K, 190005, India. .,Department of Biotechnology, Science Block, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, J&K, 190006, India.
| | - Fayaz Malik
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Branch Srinagar, Jammu, J&K, 190005, India
| | - Khurshid Iqbal Andrabi
- Department of Biotechnology, Science Block, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, J&K, 190006, India
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17
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Naegeli H, Bresson J, Dalmay T, Dewhurst IC, Epstein MM, Guerche P, Hejatko J, Moreno FJ, Mullins E, Nogué F, Rostoks N, Sánchez Serrano JJ, Savoini G, Veromann E, Veronesi F, Bonsall MB, Mumford J, Wimmer EA, Devos Y, Paraskevopoulos K, Firbank LG. Adequacy and sufficiency evaluation of existing EFSA guidelines for the molecular characterisation, environmental risk assessment and post-market environmental monitoring of genetically modified insects containing engineered gene drives. EFSA J 2020; 18:e06297. [PMID: 33209154 PMCID: PMC7658669 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.6297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in molecular and synthetic biology are enabling the engineering of gene drives in insects for disease vector/pest control. Engineered gene drives (that bias their own inheritance) can be designed either to suppress interbreeding target populations or modify them with a new genotype. Depending on the engineered gene drive system, theoretically, a genetic modification of interest could spread through target populations and persist indefinitely, or be restricted in its spread or persistence. While research on engineered gene drives and their applications in insects is advancing at a fast pace, it will take several years for technological developments to move to practical applications for deliberate release into the environment. Some gene drive modified insects (GDMIs) have been tested experimentally in the laboratory, but none has been assessed in small-scale confined field trials or in open release trials as yet. There is concern that the deliberate release of GDMIs in the environment may have possible irreversible and unintended consequences. As a proactive measure, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has been requested by the European Commission to review whether its previously published guidelines for the risk assessment of genetically modified animals (EFSA, 2012 and 2013), including insects (GMIs), are adequate and sufficient for GDMIs, primarily disease vectors, agricultural pests and invasive species, for deliberate release into the environment. Under this mandate, EFSA was not requested to develop risk assessment guidelines for GDMIs. In this Scientific Opinion, the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) concludes that EFSA's guidelines are adequate, but insufficient for the molecular characterisation (MC), environmental risk assessment (ERA) and post-market environmental monitoring (PMEM) of GDMIs. While the MC,ERA and PMEM of GDMIs can build on the existing risk assessment framework for GMIs that do not contain engineered gene drives, there are specific areas where further guidance is needed for GDMIs.
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18
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Hambrook JR, Gharamah AA, Pila EA, Hussein S, Hanington PC. Biomphalaria glabrata Granulin Increases Resistance to Schistosoma mansoni Infection in Several Biomphalaria Species and Induces the Production of Reactive Oxygen Species by Haemocytes. Genes (Basel) 2019; 11:E38. [PMID: 31905675 PMCID: PMC7017051 DOI: 10.3390/genes11010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastropod molluscs, which have co-evolved with parasitic digenean trematodes for millions of years, utilize circulating heamocytes as the primary method of containing and killing these invading parasites. In order to do so, they must generate suitable amounts of haemocytes that are properly armed to kill parasitic worms. One method by which they generate the haemocytes required to initiate the appropriate cell mediated immune response is via the production and post-translational processing of granulins. Granulins are an evolutionarily conserved family of growth factors present in the majority of eukaryotic life forms. In their pro-granulin form, they can elicit cellular replication and differentiation. The pro-granulins can be further processed by elastase to generate smaller granulin fragments that have been shown to functionally differ from the pro-granulin precursor. In this study, we demonstrate that in vivo addition of Biomphalaria glabrata pro-granulin (BgGRN) can reduce Schistosoma mansoni infection success in numerous Biomphalaria sp. when challenged with different S. mansoni strains. We also demonstrate that cleavage of BgGRN into individual granulin subunits by elastase results in the stimulation of haemocytes to produce reactive oxygen species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob R. Hambrook
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (J.R.H.); (A.A.G.); (E.A.P.)
| | - Abdullah A. Gharamah
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (J.R.H.); (A.A.G.); (E.A.P.)
| | - Emmanuel A. Pila
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (J.R.H.); (A.A.G.); (E.A.P.)
| | - Solomon Hussein
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
| | - Patrick C. Hanington
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (J.R.H.); (A.A.G.); (E.A.P.)
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Bi HL, Xu J, He L, Zhang Y, Li K, Huang YP. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ebony knockout results in puparium melanism in Spodoptera litura. INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 26:1011-1019. [PMID: 30688002 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Insect body pigmentation and coloration are critical to adaption to the environment. To explore the mechanisms that drive pigmentation, we used the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) genome editing system to target the ebony gene in the non-model insect Spodoptera litura. Ebony is crucial to melanin synthesis in insects. By directly injecting Cas9 messenger RNA and ebony-specific guide RNAs into S. litura embryos, we successfully induced a typical ebony-deficient phenotype of deep coloration of the puparium and induction of melanin formation during the pupal stage. Polymerase chain reaction-based genotype analysis demonstrated that various mutations had occurred at the sites targeted in ebony. Our study clearly demonstrates the function of ebony in the puparium coloration and also provides a potentially useful marker gene for functional studies in S. litura as well as other lepidopteran pests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Lun Bi
- College of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin He
- College of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Kai Li
- College of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Ping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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20
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Wang Y, Chen X, Liu Z, Xu J, Li X, Bi H, Andongma AA, Niu C, Huang Y. Mutation of doublesex induces sex-specific sterility of the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 112:103180. [PMID: 31278987 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2019.103180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
DOUBLESEX (DSX): the downstream gene in the insect sex determination pathway, plays a critical role in sexual differentiation and development. The functions of dsx have been characterized in several model insect species. However, the molecular mechanism and functions of sex determination of dsx in Plutella xylostella, an agricultural pest, are still unknown. In present study, we identified a male-specific and three female-specific Pxdsx transcripts in P. xylostella. Phylogenetic analyses and multiple sequence alignment revealed that Pxdsx is highly conserved in lepidopterans. The CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to induce mutations in the male-specific isoform, the female-specific isoform, and common regions of Pxdsx. Disruptions of Pxdsx sex-specific isoforms caused sex-specific defects in external genitals and partial sexual reversal. In addition, we found that female specific transcripts were detected in PxdsxM male mutants and male-specific transcripts were detected in PxdsxF female mutants. Mutations also caused changes in expression of several sex-biased genes and induced sex-specific sterility. This study demonstrates that Pxdsx plays a key role in sex determination of P. xylostella and suggests novel genetic control approaches for the management of P. xylostella.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaohui Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Insect Resource Application and Sustainable Pest Control, College of Plant Science & Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xi'en Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zulian Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jun Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaowei Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Honglun Bi
- CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Awawing A Andongma
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Insect Resource Application and Sustainable Pest Control, College of Plant Science & Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Changying Niu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Insect Resource Application and Sustainable Pest Control, College of Plant Science & Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Yongping Huang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Chen X, Cao Y, Zhan S, Tan A, Palli SR, Huang Y. Disruption of sex-specific doublesex exons results in male- and female-specific defects in the black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2019; 75:1697-1706. [PMID: 30520231 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Doublesex (dsx), the downstream gene in the insect sex-determination pathway, is a key regulator of sexually dimorphic development and behavior across a variety of insects. Manipulating expression of dsx could be useful in the genetic control of insects. However, information on the sex-specific function of dsx in non-model insects is lacking. RESULTS In this work, we isolated a dsx homolog, which is alternatively spliced into six female-specific and one male-specific isoforms, from an important agricultural pest, the black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon. Studies on the expression of sex-specific Aidsx mRNA during embryonic development showed that the sixth hour post oviposition is the key stage for sex determination in A. ipsilon. Functional analysis of Aidsx was conducted using a CRISPR/Cas9 system targeting female- and male-specific Aidsx exons. Disruptions of sex-specific Aidsx exons resulted in sex-specific, sexually dimorphic defects in external genitals, gonads and antennae, and expression of sex-specific genes as well as production of offspring in both sexes. CONCLUSION Our results not only demonstrate that dsx is a key player determining A. ipsilon sexually dimorphic traits, but also provide a potential method for the genetic control of this pest. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xien Chen
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Yanghui Cao
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Shuai Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Anjiang Tan
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Subba Reddy Palli
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Yongping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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Minet C, Thévenon S, Chantal I, Solano P, Berthier D. Mini-review on CRISPR-Cas9 and its potential applications to help controlling neglected tropical diseases caused by Trypanosomatidae. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018; 63:326-331. [PMID: 29486366 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas system, which was originally identified as a prokaryotic defense mechanism, is increasingly being used for the functional study of genes. This technology, which is simple, inexpensive and efficient, has aroused a lot of enthusiasm in the scientific community since its discovery, and every month many publications emanate from very different communities reporting on the use of CRISPR-Cas9. Currently, there are no vaccines to control neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) caused by Trypanosomatidae, particularly Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) and Animal African Trypanosomoses (AAT), and treatments are cumbersome and sometimes not effective enough. CRISPR-Cas9 has the potential to functionally analyze new target molecules that could be used for therapeutic and vaccine purposes. In this review, after briefly describing CRIPSR-Cas9 history and how it works, different applications on diseases, especially on parasitic diseases, are reviewed. We then focus the review on the use of CRISPR-Cas9 editing on Trypanosomatidae parasites, the causative agents of NTDs, which are still a terrible burden for human populations in tropical regions, and their vectors.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anopheles/genetics
- Anopheles/parasitology
- CRISPR-Associated Protein 9/genetics
- CRISPR-Associated Protein 9/metabolism
- CRISPR-Cas Systems
- Cattle
- Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drosophila/genetics
- Drosophila/parasitology
- Gene Editing/methods
- Genome, Protozoan
- Leishmania/genetics
- Leishmania/pathogenicity
- Leishmaniasis/parasitology
- Leishmaniasis/prevention & control
- Leishmaniasis/transmission
- Neglected Diseases/parasitology
- Neglected Diseases/prevention & control
- RNA, Guide, CRISPR-Cas Systems/genetics
- RNA, Guide, CRISPR-Cas Systems/metabolism
- Trypanosoma/genetics
- Trypanosoma/pathogenicity
- Trypanosomiasis, African/parasitology
- Trypanosomiasis, African/prevention & control
- Trypanosomiasis, African/transmission
- Trypanosomiasis, Bovine/parasitology
- Trypanosomiasis, Bovine/prevention & control
- Trypanosomiasis, Bovine/transmission
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Minet
- CIRAD, UMR INTERTRYP, F-34398 Montpellier, France; INTERTRYP, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier, France.
| | - Sophie Thévenon
- CIRAD, UMR INTERTRYP, F-34398 Montpellier, France; INTERTRYP, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier, France.
| | - Isabelle Chantal
- CIRAD, UMR INTERTRYP, F-34398 Montpellier, France; INTERTRYP, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier, France.
| | - Philippe Solano
- IRD, UMR INTERTRYP IRD, CIRAD, University of Montpellier, F-34398 Montpellier, France.
| | - David Berthier
- CIRAD, UMR INTERTRYP, F-34398 Montpellier, France; INTERTRYP, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier, France.
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Goold HD, Wright P, Hailstones D. Emerging Opportunities for Synthetic Biology in Agriculture. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:E341. [PMID: 29986428 PMCID: PMC6071285 DOI: 10.3390/genes9070341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid expansion in the emerging field of synthetic biology has to date mainly focused on the microbial sciences and human health. However, the zeitgeist is that synthetic biology will also shortly deliver major outcomes for agriculture. The primary industries of agriculture, fisheries and forestry, face significant and global challenges; addressing them will be assisted by the sector’s strong history of early adoption of transformative innovation, such as the genetic technologies that underlie synthetic biology. The implementation of synthetic biology within agriculture may, however, be hampered given the industry is dominated by higher plants and mammals, where large and often polyploid genomes and the lack of adequate tools challenge the ability to deliver outcomes in the short term. However, synthetic biology is a rapidly growing field, new techniques in genome design and synthesis, and more efficient molecular tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 may harbor opportunities more broadly than the development of new cultivars and breeds. In particular, the ability to use synthetic biology to engineer biosensors, synthetic speciation, microbial metabolic engineering, mammalian multiplexed CRISPR, novel anti microbials, and projects such as Yeast 2.0 all have significant potential to deliver transformative changes to agriculture in the short, medium and longer term. Specifically, synthetic biology promises to deliver benefits that increase productivity and sustainability across primary industries, underpinning the industry’s prosperity in the face of global challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh Douglas Goold
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia.
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Woodbridge Road, Menangle, NSW 2568, Australia.
| | - Philip Wright
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Locked Bag 21, 161 Kite St, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia.
| | - Deborah Hailstones
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, Woodbridge Road, Menangle, NSW 2568, Australia.
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Lambert B, North A, Burt A, Godfray HCJ. The use of driving endonuclease genes to suppress mosquito vectors of malaria in temporally variable environments. Malar J 2018; 17:154. [PMID: 29618367 PMCID: PMC5885365 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2259-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The use of gene drive systems to manipulate populations of malaria vectors is currently being investigated as a method of malaria control. One potential system uses driving endonuclease genes (DEGs) to spread genes that impose a genetic load. Previously, models have shown that the introduction of DEG-bearing mosquitoes could suppress or even extinguish vector populations in spatially-heterogeneous environments which were constant over time. In this study, a stochastic spatially-explicit model of mosquito ecology is combined with a rainfall model which enables the generation of a variety of daily precipitation patterns. The model is then used to investigate how releases of a DEG that cause a bias in population sex ratios towards males are affected by seasonal or random rainfall patterns. The parameters of the rainfall model are then fitted using data from Bamako, Mali, and Mbita, Kenya, to evaluate release strategies in similar climatic conditions. Results In landscapes with abundant resources and large mosquito populations the spread of a DEG is reliable, irrespective of variability in rainfall. This study thus focuses mainly on landscapes with low density mosquito populations where the spread of a DEG may be sensitive to variation in rainfall. It is found that an introduced DEG will spread into its target population more reliably in wet conditions, yet an established DEG will have more impact in dry conditions. In strongly seasonal environments, it is thus preferable to release DEGs at the onset of a wet season to maximize their spread before the following dry season. If the variability in rainfall has a substantial random component, there is a net increase in the probability that a DEG release will lead to population extinction, due to the increased impact of a DEG which manages to establish in these conditions. For Bamako, where annual rainfall patterns are characterized by a long dry season, it is optimal to release a DEG at the start of the wet season, where the population is growing fastest. By contrast release timing is of lower importance for the less seasonal Mbita. Conclusion This analysis suggests that DEG based methods of malaria vector control can be effective in a wide range of climates. In environments with substantial temporal variation in rainfall, careful timing of releases which accounts for the temporal variation in population density can substantially improve the probability of mosquito suppression or extinction. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12936-018-2259-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Lambert
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK. .,Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, St. Mary's Campus, Norfolk Place, London, W2 1PG, UK.
| | - Ace North
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | - Austin Burt
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Silwood Park, Ascot, Berks, SL5 7PY, UK
| | - H Charles J Godfray
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
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Hegde S, Hughes GL. Population modification of Anopheles mosquitoes for malaria control: pathways to implementation. Pathog Glob Health 2018; 111:401-402. [PMID: 29575984 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2017.1453590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shivanand Hegde
- a Department of Pathology , University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston , TX , USA
| | - Grant L Hughes
- b Department of Pathology, Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, Center for Tropical Diseases, Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Disease , University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston , TX , USA
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van der Vlugt CJB, Brown DD, Lehmann K, Leunda A, Willemarck N. A Framework for the Risk Assessment and Management of Gene Drive Technology in Contained Use. APPLIED BIOSAFETY 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/1535676018755117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - David D. Brown
- Microbiology and Biotechnology Unit, Bootle, Merseyside, UK
| | - Kathleen Lehmann
- Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety, Berlin, Germany
| | - Amaya Leunda
- Scientific Institute of Public Health (WIV-ISP), Brussels, Belgium
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Wolff GH, Riffell JA. Olfaction, experience and neural mechanisms underlying mosquito host preference. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 221:221/4/jeb157131. [PMID: 29487141 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.157131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Mosquitoes are best known for their proclivity towards biting humans and transmitting bloodborne pathogens, but there are over 3500 species, including both blood-feeding and non-blood-feeding taxa. The diversity of host preference in mosquitoes is exemplified by the feeding habits of mosquitoes in the genus Malaya that feed on ant regurgitation or those from the genus Uranotaenia that favor amphibian hosts. Host preference is also by no means static, but is characterized by behavioral plasticity that allows mosquitoes to switch hosts when their preferred host is unavailable and by learning host cues associated with positive or negative experiences. Here we review the diverse range of host-preference behaviors across the family Culicidae, which includes all mosquitoes, and how adaptations in neural circuitry might affect changes in preference both within the life history of a mosquito and across evolutionary time-scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella H Wolff
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Riffell
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Huang Y, Wang Y, Zeng B, Liu Z, Xu X, Meng Q, Huang Y, Yang G, Vasseur L, Gurr GM, You M. Functional characterization of Pol III U6 promoters for gene knockdown and knockout in Plutella xylostella. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 89:71-78. [PMID: 28890398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2017.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
RNA polymerase type III (Pol-III) promoters such as U6 are commonly used to express small RNAs, including short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) and single guide RNAs (sgRNAs). Functional U6 promoters are widely used in CRISPR systems, and their characterization can facilitate genome editing of non-model organisms. In the present study, six U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) promoters containing two conserved elements of a proximal sequence element (PSEA) and a TATA box, were identified and characterized in the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) genome. Relative efficiency of the U6 promoters to express shRNA induced EGFP knockdown was tested in a P. xylostella cell line, revealing that the PxU6:3 promoter had the strongest expression effect. Further work with the PxU6:3 promoter showed its efficacy in EGFP knockout using CRISPR/Cas9 system in the cells. The expression plasmids with versatile Pxabd-A gene specific sgRNA driven by the PxU6:3 promoter, combined with Cas9 mRNA, could induce mutagenesis at specific genomic loci in vivo. The phenotypes induced by sgRNA expression plasmids were similar to those done in vitro transcription sgRNAs. A plasmid with two tandem arranged PxU6:3:sgRNA expression cassettes targeting Pxabd-A loci was generated, which caused a 28,856 bp fragment deletion, suggesting that the multi-sgRNA expression plasmid can be used for multi-targeting. Our work indicates that U6 snRNA promoters can be used for functional studies of genes with the approach of reverse genetics in P. xylostella. These essential promoters also provide valuable potential for CRISPR-derived gene drive as a tactic for population control in this globally significant pest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Baosheng Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xuejiao Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Qian Meng
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yongping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guang Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Liette Vasseur
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Geoff M Gurr
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Graham Centre, Charles Sturt University, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia
| | - Minsheng You
- State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian/Taiwan Crops and College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Fujian-Taiwan Joint Innovation Centre for Ecological Control of Crop Pests, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou 350002, China.
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Abstract
Driving endonuclease genes (DEGs) spread through a population by a non-Mendelian mechanism. In a heterozygote, the protein encoded by a DEG causes a double-strand break in the homologous chromosome opposite to where its gene is inserted and when the break is repaired using the homologue as a template the DEG heterozygote is converted to a homozygote. Some DEGs occur naturally while several classes of endonucleases can be engineered to spread in this way, with CRISPR-Cas9 based systems being particularly flexible. There is great interest in using driving endonuclease genes to impose a genetic load on insects that vector diseases or are economic pests to reduce their population density, or to introduce a beneficial gene such as one that might interrupt disease transmission. This paper reviews both the population genetics and population dynamics of DEGs. It summarises the theory that guides the design of DEG constructs intended to perform different functions. It also reviews the studies that have explored the likelihood of resistance to DEG phenotypes arising, and how this risk may be reduced. The review is intended for a general audience and mathematical details are kept to a minimum.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Charles J Godfray
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK.
| | - Ace North
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | - Austin Burt
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Silwood Park, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7PY, UK
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30
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Sun D, Guo Z, Liu Y, Zhang Y. Progress and Prospects of CRISPR/Cas Systems in Insects and Other Arthropods. Front Physiol 2017; 8:608. [PMID: 28932198 PMCID: PMC5592444 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and the CRISPR-associated gene Cas9 represent an invaluable system for the precise editing of genes in diverse species. The CRISPR/Cas9 system is an adaptive mechanism that enables bacteria and archaeal species to resist invading viruses and phages or plasmids. Compared with zinc finger nucleases and transcription activator-like effector nucleases, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has the advantage of requiring less time and effort. This efficient technology has been used in many species, including diverse arthropods that are relevant to agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and public health; however, there is no review that systematically summarizes its successful application in the editing of both insect and non-insect arthropod genomes. Thus, this paper seeks to provide a comprehensive and impartial overview of the progress of the CRISPR/Cas9 system in different arthropods, reviewing not only fundamental studies related to gene function exploration and experimental optimization but also applied studies in areas such as insect modification and pest control. In addition, we also describe the latest research advances regarding two novel CRISPR/Cas systems (CRISPR/Cpf1 and CRISPR/C2c2) and discuss their future prospects for becoming crucial technologies in arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Sun
- Longping Branch, Graduate School of Hunan UniversityChangsha, China.,Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Vegetables and Flowers, Chinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Zhaojiang Guo
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Vegetables and Flowers, Chinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Longping Branch, Graduate School of Hunan UniversityChangsha, China
| | - Youjun Zhang
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Vegetables and Flowers, Chinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesBeijing, China
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31
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Desalle R, Amato G. Conservation Genetics, Precision Conservation, and De-extinction. Hastings Cent Rep 2017; 47 Suppl 2:S18-S23. [DOI: 10.1002/hast.747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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32
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Fears R, Ter Meulen V. How should the applications of genome editing be assessed and regulated? eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 28375079 PMCID: PMC5380431 DOI: 10.7554/elife.26295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
An EASAC working group on genome editing recommends that regulators should focus on specific applications of these new techniques rather than attempting to regulate genome editing itself as a new technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Fears
- Bioscience Programme at European Academies Science Advisory Council, Halle, Germany
| | - Volker Ter Meulen
- EASAC Working Group on Genome Editing and is at the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina, Halle, Germany
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33
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Taning CNT, Van Eynde B, Yu N, Ma S, Smagghe G. CRISPR/Cas9 in insects: Applications, best practices and biosafety concerns. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2017; 98:245-257. [PMID: 28108316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Discovered as a bacterial adaptive immune system, CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeat/CRISPR associated) is being developed as an attractive tool in genome editing. Due to its high specificity and applicability, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing has been employed in a multitude of organisms and cells, including insects, for not only fundamental research such as gene function studies, but also applied research such as modification of organisms of economic importance. Despite the rapid increase in the use of CRISPR in insect genome editing, results still differ from each study, principally due to existing differences in experimental parameters, such as the Cas9 and guide RNA form, the delivery method, the target gene and off-target effects. Here, we review current reports on the successes of CRISPR/Cas9 applications in diverse insects and insect cells. We furthermore summarize several best practices to give a useful checklist of CRISPR/Cas9 experimental setup in insects for beginners. Lastly, we discuss the biosafety concerns related to the release of CRISPR/Cas9-edited insects into the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clauvis Nji Tizi Taning
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Benigna Van Eynde
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Na Yu
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Weigang 1, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Sanyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Harvey-Samuel T, Ant T, Alphey L. Towards the genetic control of invasive species. Biol Invasions 2017; 19:1683-1703. [PMID: 28620268 PMCID: PMC5446844 DOI: 10.1007/s10530-017-1384-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Invasive species remain one of the greatest threats to global biodiversity. Their control would be enhanced through the development of more effective and sustainable pest management strategies. Recently, a novel form of genetic pest management (GPM) has been developed in which the mating behaviour of insect pests is exploited to introduce genetically engineered DNA sequences into wild conspecific populations. These 'transgenes' work in one or more ways to reduce the damage caused by a particular pest, for example reducing its density, or its ability to vector disease. Although currently being developed for use against economically important insect pests, these technologies would be highly appropriate for application against invasive species that threaten biodiversity. Importantly, these technologies have begun to advance in scope beyond insects to vertebrates, which include some of the world's worst invasives. Here we review the current state of this rapidly progressing field and, using an established set of eradication criteria, discuss the characteristics which make GPM technologies suitable for application against invasive pests.
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Gartland KM, Dundar M, Beccari T, Magni MV, Gartland JS. Advances in biotechnology: Genomics and genome editing. THE EUROBIOTECH JOURNAL 2017. [DOI: 10.24190/issn2564-615x/2017/01.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Genomics, the study of genes, their functions and related techniques has become a crucial science for developing understanding of life processes and how they evolve. Since the advent of the human genome project, huge strides have been made in developing understanding of DNA and RNA sequence information and how it can be put to good use in the biotechnology sector. Newly derived sequencing and bioinformatics tools have added to the torrent of new insights gained, so that ‘sequence once and query often’ type DNA apps are now becoming reality. Genome editing, using tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 nuclease or Cpf1 nuclease, provide rapid methods for inserting, deleting or modifying DNA sequences in highly precise ways, in virtually any animal, plant or microbial system. Recent international discussions have considered human germline gene editing, amongst other aspects of this technology. Whether or not gene edited plants will be considered as genetically modified remains an important question. This will determine the regulatory processes adopted by different groups of nations and applicability to feeding the world’s ever growing population. Questions surrounding the intellectual property rights associated with gene editing must also be resolved. Mitochondrial replacement therapy leading to ‘3-Parent Babies’ has been successfully carried out in Mexico, by an international team, to correct mother to child mitochondrial disease transmission. The UK has become the first country to legally allow ‘cautious use’ of mitochondrial donation in treatment. Genomics and genome editing will continue to advance what can be achieved technically, whilst society determines whether or not what can be done should be applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevan M.A. Gartland
- Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian Univsity, Glasgow G4 0BA, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Munis Dundar
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri , Turkey
| | - Tommaso Beccari
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia , Italy
| | | | - Jill S. Gartland
- Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian Univsity, Glasgow G4 0BA, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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Xu J, Zhan S, Chen S, Zeng B, Li Z, James AA, Tan A, Huang Y. Sexually dimorphic traits in the silkworm, Bombyx mori, are regulated by doublesex. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 80:42-51. [PMID: 27867075 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The DM domain genes, doublesex (dsx) in insects, or their structural homologs, male abnormal 3 (mab-3) in nematodes and Dmrt1 (doublesex and mab-3-related transcription factor 1) in mammals, are downstream regulators of the sex determination pathway that control sexually dimorphic development. Despite the functional importance of dsx and its potential applications in sterile insect technologies (SITs), the mechanisms by which it controls sexually dimorphic traits and the subsequent developmental gene networks in insects are poorly understood. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that insect dsx genes have sex-specific alternative splicing isoforms, whereas other taxa do not. We exploited genome editing and transgenesis technologies to induce mutations in either the male-specific isoform (dsxM) or common region (dsxC) of dsx in the somatic tissues of the lepidopteran model insect Bombyx mori. Disruptions of gene function produced either male-specific sexually-dimorphic defects or intersexual phenotypes; these results differ from those observed in other insects, including Drosophila melanogaster. Our data provide insights into the divergence of the insect sex determination pathways related to the most conserved downstream component dsx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shuai Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shuqing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Baosheng Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhiqian Li
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Anthony A James
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics and Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, United States.
| | - Anjiang Tan
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Yongping Huang
- Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China.
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37
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Stevenson JC, Norris DE. Implicating Cryptic and Novel Anophelines as Malaria Vectors in Africa. INSECTS 2016; 8:E1. [PMID: 28025486 PMCID: PMC5371929 DOI: 10.3390/insects8010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Entomological indices and bionomic descriptions of malaria vectors are essential to accurately describe and understand malaria transmission and for the design and evaluation of appropriate control interventions. In order to correctly assign spatio-temporal distributions, behaviors and responses to interventions to particular anopheline species, identification of mosquitoes must be accurately made. This paper reviews the current methods and their limitations in correctly identifying anopheline mosquitoes in sub-Saharan Africa, and highlights the importance of molecular methods to discriminate cryptic species and identify lesser known anophelines. The increasing number of reports of Plasmodium infections in assumed "minor", non-vector, and cryptic and novel species is reviewed. Their importance in terms of evading current control and elimination strategies and therefore maintaining malaria transmission is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Stevenson
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
- Macha Research Trust, Choma P.O. Box 630166, Southern Province, Zambia.
| | - Douglas E Norris
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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38
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Abstract
The recent advent of the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9) system for precise genome editing has revolutionized methodologies in haematology and oncology studies. CRISPR-Cas9 technology can be used to remove and correct genes or mutations, and to introduce site-specific therapeutic genes in human cells. Inherited haematological disorders represent ideal targets for CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene therapy. Correcting disease-causing mutations could alleviate disease-related symptoms in the near future. The CRISPR-Cas9 system is also a useful tool for delineating molecular mechanisms involving haematological malignancies. Prior to the use of CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene correction in humans, appropriate delivery systems with higher efficiency and specificity must be identified, and ethical guidelines for applying the technology with controllable safety must be established. Here, the latest applications of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in haematological disorders, current challenges and future directions are reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhang
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases (IMM), University of Texas-Health Science Centre at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nami McCarty
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases (IMM), University of Texas-Health Science Centre at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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Reegan AD, Ceasar SA, Paulraj MG, Ignacimuthu S, Al-Dhabi NA. Current status of genome editing in vector mosquitoes: A review. Biosci Trends 2016; 10:424-432. [DOI: 10.5582/bst.2016.01180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Appadurai Daniel Reegan
- Division of Vector Control, Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College
- Department of Zoology, Madras Christian College
| | | | | | - Savarimuthu Ignacimuthu
- Division of Vector Control, Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College
- Division of Molecular Biology, Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College
- International Scientific Partnership Program, Deanship of Research, King Saud University
| | - Naif Abdullah Al-Dhabi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Addiriyah chair for Environmental Studies, College of Science, King Saud University
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