1
|
Yin J, Wan H, Kong D, Liu X, Guan Y, Wu J, Zhou Y, Ma X, Lou C, Ye H, Guan N. A digital CRISPR-dCas9-based gene remodeling biocomputer programmed by dietary compounds in mammals. Cell Syst 2024:S2405-4712(24)00266-7. [PMID: 39383861 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2024.09.002] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024]
Abstract
CRISPR-dCas9 (dead Cas9 protein) technology, combined with chemical molecules and light-triggered genetic switches, offers customizable control over gene perturbation. However, these simple ON/OFF switches cannot precisely determine the sophisticated perturbation process. Here, we developed a resveratrol and protocatechuic acid-programmed CRISPR-mediated gene remodeling biocomputer (REPACRISPR) for conditional endogenous transcriptional regulation of genes in vitro and in vivo. Two REPACRISPR variants, REPACRISPRi and REPACRISPRa, were designed for the logic control of gene inhibition and activation, respectively. We successfully demonstrated the digital computations of single or multiplexed endogenous gene transcription by using REPACRISPRa. We also established mathematical models to predict the dose-responsive transcriptional levels of a target endogenous gene controlled by REPACRISPRa. Moreover, high levels of endogenous gene activation in mice mediated by the AND logic gate demonstrated computational control of CRISPR-dCas9-based epigenome remodeling in mice. This CRISPR-based biocomputer expands the synthetic biology toolbox and can potentially advance gene-based precision medicine. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the supplemental information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianli Yin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Precision Optics, Chongqing Institute of East China Normal University, Chongqing 401120, China; Shanghai Fengxian District Central Hospital, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Hang Wan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Deqiang Kong
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xingwan Liu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ying Guan
- School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Center for Cell and Gene Circuit Design, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiali Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Precision Optics, Chongqing Institute of East China Normal University, Chongqing 401120, China; Wuhu Hospital, Health Science Center, East China Normal University, Wuhu City 241001, China
| | - Xiaoding Ma
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Chunbo Lou
- School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Center for Cell and Gene Circuit Design, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Ningzi Guan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Centre, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Galvan S, Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Enhancing cell-based therapies with synthetic gene circuits responsive to molecular stimuli. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:2987-3000. [PMID: 38867466 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology aims to contribute to the development of next-generation patient-specific cell-based therapies for chronic diseases especially through the construction of sophisticated synthetic gene switches to enhance the safety and spatiotemporal controllability of engineered cells. Indeed, switches that sense and process specific cues, which may be either externally administered triggers or endogenous disease-associated molecules, have emerged as powerful tools for programming and fine-tuning therapeutic outputs. Living engineered cells, often referred to as designer cells, incorporating such switches are delivered to patients either as encapsulated cell implants or by infusion, as in the case of the clinically approved CAR-T cell therapies. Here, we review recent developments in synthetic gene switches responsive to molecular stimuli, spanning regulatory mechanisms acting at the transcriptional, translational, and posttranslational levels. We also discuss current challenges facing clinical translation of cell-based therapies employing these devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Galvan
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ana P Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Stohr AM, Ma D, Chen W, Blenner M. Engineering conditional protein-protein interactions for dynamic cellular control. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 77:108457. [PMID: 39343083 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108457] [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: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Conditional protein-protein interactions enable dynamic regulation of cellular activity and are an attractive approach to probe native protein interactions, improve metabolic engineering of microbial factories, and develop smart therapeutics. Conditional protein-protein interactions have been engineered to respond to various chemical, light, and nucleic acid-based stimuli. These interactions have been applied to assemble protein fragments, build protein scaffolds, and spatially organize proteins in many microbial and higher-order hosts. To foster the development of novel conditional protein-protein interactions that respond to new inputs or can be utilized in alternative settings, we provide an overview of the process of designing new engineered protein interactions while showcasing many recently developed computational tools that may accelerate protein engineering in this space.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M Stohr
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Derron Ma
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Wilfred Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.
| | - Mark Blenner
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Głowacki P, Tręda C, Rieske P. Regulation of CAR transgene expression to design semiautonomous CAR-T. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200833. [PMID: 39184876 PMCID: PMC11344471 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Effective transgene expression is critical for genetically engineered cell therapy. Therefore, one of CAR-T cell therapy's critical areas of interest, both in registered products and next-generation approaches is the expression of transgenes. It turns out that various constitutive promoters used in clinical products may influence CAR-T cell antitumor effectiveness and impact the manufacturing process. Furthermore, next-generation CAR-T starts to install remotely controlled inducible promoters or even autonomous expression systems, opening new ways of priming, boosting, and increasing the safety of CAR-T. In this article, a wide range of constitutive and inducible promoters has been grouped and structured, making it possible to compare their pros and cons as well as clinical usage. Finally, logic gates based on Synthetic Notch have been elaborated, demonstrating the coupling of desired external signals with genetically engineered cellular responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Głowacki
- Department of Tumor Biology, Chair of Medical Biology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego 7/9 Street, 90-752 Lodz, Poland
| | - Cezary Tręda
- Department of Tumor Biology, Chair of Medical Biology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego 7/9 Street, 90-752 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Research and Development Personather Ltd, Inwestycyjna 7, 95-050 Konstantynow Lodzki, Poland
| | - Piotr Rieske
- Department of Tumor Biology, Chair of Medical Biology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego 7/9 Street, 90-752 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Research and Development Personather Ltd, Inwestycyjna 7, 95-050 Konstantynow Lodzki, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Capelletti S, García Soto SC, Gonçalves MAFV. On RNA-programmable gene modulation as a versatile set of principles targeting muscular dystrophies. Mol Ther 2024:S1525-0016(24)00539-2. [PMID: 39169620 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.08.016] [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: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The repurposing of RNA-programmable CRISPR systems from genome editing into epigenome editing tools is gaining pace, including in research and development efforts directed at tackling human disorders. This momentum stems from the increasing knowledge regarding the epigenetic factors and networks underlying cell physiology and disease etiology and from the growing realization that genome editing principles involving chromosomal breaks generated by programmable nucleases are prone to unpredictable genetic changes and outcomes. Hence, engineered CRISPR systems are serving as versatile DNA-targeting scaffolds for heterologous and synthetic effector domains that, via locally recruiting transcription factors and chromatin remodeling complexes, seek interfering with loss-of-function and gain-of-function processes underlying recessive and dominant disorders, respectively. Here, after providing an overview about epigenetic drugs and CRISPR-Cas-based activation and interference platforms, we cover the testing of these platforms in the context of molecular therapies for muscular dystrophies. Finally, we examine attributes, obstacles, and deployment opportunities for CRISPR-based epigenetic modulating technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Capelletti
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sofía C García Soto
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Manuel A F V Gonçalves
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhou Z, Wang YQ, Zheng XN, Zhang XH, Ji LY, Han JY, Zuo ZC, Mo WL, Zhang L. Optimizing ABA-based chemically induced proximity for enhanced intracellular transcriptional activation and modification response to ABA. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2707-9. [PMID: 39172347 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2707-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA)-based chemically induced proximity (CIP) is primarily mediated by the interaction of the ABA receptor pyrabactin resistance 1-like 1 (PYL1) and the 2C-type protein phosphatase ABI1, which confers ABA-induced proximity to their fusion proteins, and offers precise temporal control of a wide array of biological processes. However, broad application of ABA-based CIP has been limited by ABA response intensity. In this study, we demonstrated that ABA-induced interaction between another ABA receptor pyrabactin resistance 1 (PYR1) and ABI1 exhibited higher ABA response intensity than that between PYL1 and ABI1 in HEK293T cells. We engineered PYR1-ABI1 and PYL1-ABI1 into ABA-induced transcriptional activation tools in mammalian cells by integration with CRISPR/dCas9 and found that the tool based on PYR1-ABI1 demonstrated better ABA response intensity than that based on PYL1-ABI1 for both exogenous and endogenous genes in mammalian cells. We further achieved ABA-induced RNA m6A modification installation and erasure by combining ABA-induced PYR1-ABI1 interaction with CRISPR/dCas13, successfully inhibiting tumor cell proliferation. We subsequently improved the interaction of PYR1-ABI1 through phage-assisted continuous evolution (PACE), successfully generating a PYR1 mutant (PYR1m) whose interaction with ABI1 exhibited a higher ABA response intensity than that of the wild-type. In addition, we tested the transcriptional activation tool based on PYRm-ABI1 and found that it also showed a higher ABA response intensity than that of the wild type. These results demonstrate that we have developed a novel ABA-based CIP and further improved upon it using PACE, providing a new approach for the modification of other CIP systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeng Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Yue-Qi Wang
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Xu-Nan Zheng
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Zhang
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Lu-Yao Ji
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Jun-You Han
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Ze-Cheng Zuo
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Wei-Liang Mo
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Jilin Province Engineering Laboratory of Plant Genetic Improvement, College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kang H, Park D, Kim J. Logical regulation of endogenous gene expression using programmable, multi-input processing CRISPR guide RNAs. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:8595-8608. [PMID: 38943344 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas system provides a versatile RNA-guided approach for a broad range of applications. Thanks to advances in RNA synthetic biology, the engineering of guide RNAs (gRNAs) has enabled the conditional control of the CRISPR-Cas system. However, achieving precise regulation of the CRISPR-Cas system for efficient modulation of internal metabolic processes remains challenging. In this work, we developed a robust dCas9 regulator with engineered conditional gRNAs to enable tight control of endogenous genes. Our conditional gRNAs in Escherichia coli can control gene expression upon specific interaction with trigger RNAs with a dynamic range as high as 130-fold, evaluating up to a three-input logic A OR (B AND C). The conditional gRNA-mediated targeting of endogenous metabolic genes, lacZ, malT and poxB, caused differential regulation of growth in Escherichia coli via metabolic flux control. Further, conditional gRNAs could regulate essential cytoskeleton genes, ftsZ and mreB, to control cell filamentation and division. Finally, three types of two-input logic gates could be applied for the conditional control of ftsZ regulation, resulting in morphological changes. The successful operation and application of conditional gRNAs based on programmable RNA interactions suggests that our system could be compatible with other Cas-effectors and implemented in other host organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hansol Kang
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Korea
| | - Dongwon Park
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Korea
| | - Jongmin Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Roth GV, Gengaro IR, Qi LS. Precision epigenetic editing: Technological advances, enduring challenges, and therapeutic applications. Cell Chem Biol 2024:S2451-9456(24)00309-X. [PMID: 39137782 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.07.007] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
The epigenome is a complex framework through which gene expression is precisely and flexibly modulated to incorporate heritable memory and responses to environmental stimuli. It governs diverse cellular processes, including cell fate, disease, and aging. The need to understand this system and precisely control gene expression outputs for therapeutic purposes has precipitated the development of a diverse set of epigenetic editing tools. Here, we review the existing toolbox for targeted epigenetic editing, technical considerations of the current technologies, and opportunities for future development. We describe applications of therapeutic epigenetic editing and their potential for treating disease, with a discussion of ongoing delivery challenges that impede certain clinical interventions, particularly in the brain. With simultaneous advancements in available engineering tools and appropriate delivery technologies, we predict that epigenetic editing will increasingly cement itself as a powerful approach for safely treating a wide range of disorders in all tissues of the body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Goldie V Roth
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Isabella R Gengaro
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lei S Qi
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yun S, Noh M, Yu J, Kim HJ, Hui CC, Lee H, Son JE. Unlocking biological mechanisms with integrative functional genomics approaches. Mol Cells 2024; 47:100092. [PMID: 39019219 PMCID: PMC11345568 DOI: 10.1016/j.mocell.2024.100092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Reverse genetics offers precise functional insights into genes through the targeted manipulation of gene expression followed by phenotypic assessment. While these approaches have proven effective in model organisms such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, large-scale genetic manipulations in human cells were historically unfeasible due to methodological limitations. However, recent advancements in functional genomics, particularly clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based screening technologies and next-generation sequencing platforms, have enabled pooled screening technologies that allow massively parallel, unbiased assessments of biological phenomena in human cells. This review provides a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge functional genomic screening technologies applicable to human cells, ranging from short hairpin RNA screens to modern CRISPR screens. Additionally, we explore the integration of CRISPR platforms with single-cell approaches to monitor gene expression, chromatin accessibility, epigenetic regulation, and chromatin architecture following genetic perturbations at the omics level. By offering an in-depth understanding of these genomic screening methods, this review aims to provide insights into more targeted and effective strategies for genomic research and personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sehee Yun
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Minsoo Noh
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea; Department of Internal Medicine and Laboratory of Genomics and Translational Medicine, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21565, Korea
| | - Jivin Yu
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Hyeon-Jai Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Chi-Chung Hui
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hunsang Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea.
| | - Joe Eun Son
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gu P, Zhao J, Zhang W, Ruan X, Hu L, Zeng Y, Hou X, Zheng X, Gao M, Chi J. An Inducible CRISPR-dCas9-Based Transcriptional Repression System for Cancer Therapy. SMALL METHODS 2024; 8:e2301310. [PMID: 38164884 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301310] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy has been adapted for improving malignant tumor treatment. However, pharmacotherapies targeting cancer remain limited and are generally inapplicable for rare disease patients. Oleanolic acid (OA) is a plant-derived triterpenoid that is frequently used in Chinese medicine as a safe but slow-acting treatment for many disorders. Here, the congruent pharmacological activities of OA and CRISPR-dCas9 in targeting AURKA or KDM1A and improving disease-specific prognosis and used a synthetic-biology-inspired design principle to engineer a therapeutic gene circuit that enables a concerted action of both drugs are utilized. In particular, the OA-triggered CRISPR-dCas9 transcriptional repression system rapidly and simultaneously attenuated lung and thyroid cancer. Collectively, this work shows that rationally engineered synthetic gene circuits are capable of treating multifactorial diseases in a synergistic manner by multiplexing the targeting efficiencies of single therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Gu
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin University Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xianhui Ruan
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Linfei Hu
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yu Zeng
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xiukun Hou
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xiangqian Zheng
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Ming Gao
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of General Surgery in construction, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300121, China
| | - Jiadong Chi
- Department of Thyroid and Neck Tumor, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
McCutcheon SR, Rohm D, Iglesias N, Gersbach CA. Epigenome editing technologies for discovery and medicine. Nat Biotechnol 2024; 42:1199-1217. [PMID: 39075148 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02320-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Epigenome editing has rapidly evolved in recent years, with diverse applications that include elucidating gene regulation mechanisms, annotating coding and noncoding genome functions and programming cell state and lineage specification. Importantly, given the ubiquitous role of epigenetics in complex phenotypes, epigenome editing has unique potential to impact a broad spectrum of diseases. By leveraging powerful DNA-targeting technologies, such as CRISPR, epigenome editing exploits the heritable and reversible mechanisms of epigenetics to alter gene expression without introducing DNA breaks, inducing DNA damage or relying on DNA repair pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean R McCutcheon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Dahlia Rohm
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nahid Iglesias
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Charles A Gersbach
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
- Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Smith DJ, Lunj S, Adamson AD, Nagarajan S, Smith TAD, Reeves KJ, Hoskin PJ, Choudhury A. CRISPR-Cas9 potential for identifying novel therapeutic targets in muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Nat Rev Urol 2024:10.1038/s41585-024-00901-y. [PMID: 38951705 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-024-00901-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Gene editing technologies help identify the genetic perturbations driving tumour initiation, growth, metastasis and resistance to therapeutics. This wealth of information highlights tumour complexity and is driving cancer research towards precision medicine approaches based on an individual's tumour genetics. Bladder cancer is the 11th most common cancer in the UK, with high rates of relapse and low survival rates in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). MIBC is highly heterogeneous and encompasses multiple molecular subtypes, each with different responses to therapeutics. This evidence highlights the need to identify innovative therapeutic targets to address the challenges posed by this heterogeneity. CRISPR-Cas9 technologies have been used to advance our understanding of MIBC and determine novel drug targets through the identification of drug resistance mechanisms, targetable cell-cycle regulators, and novel tumour suppressor and oncogenes. However, the use of these technologies in the clinic remains a substantial challenge and will require careful consideration of dosage, safety and ethics. CRISPR-Cas9 offers considerable potential for revolutionizing bladder cancer therapies, but substantial research is required for validation before these technologies can be used in the clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle J Smith
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Sapna Lunj
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Antony D Adamson
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Research and Innovation, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sankari Nagarajan
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Tim A D Smith
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Nuclear Futures Institute, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | | | - Peter J Hoskin
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Ananya Choudhury
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Engineering cell-derived extracellular vesicles for gene therapy. Nat Biomed Eng 2024; 8:343-344. [PMID: 38135765 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-023-01167-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
|
14
|
Stranford DM, Simons LM, Berman KE, Cheng L, DiBiase BN, Hung ME, Lucks JB, Hultquist JF, Leonard JN. Genetically encoding multiple functionalities into extracellular vesicles for the targeted delivery of biologics to T cells. Nat Biomed Eng 2024; 8:397-414. [PMID: 38012307 PMCID: PMC11088532 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-023-01142-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The genetic modification of T cells has advanced cellular immunotherapies, yet the delivery of biologics specifically to T cells remains challenging. Here we report a suite of methods for the genetic engineering of cells to produce extracellular vesicles (EVs)-which naturally encapsulate and transfer proteins and nucleic acids between cells-for the targeted delivery of biologics to T cells without the need for chemical modifications. Specifically, the engineered cells secreted EVs that actively loaded protein cargo via a protein tag and that displayed high-affinity T-cell-targeting domains and fusogenic glycoproteins. We validated the methods by engineering EVs that delivered Cas9-single-guide-RNA complexes to ablate the gene encoding the C-X-C chemokine co-receptor type 4 in primary human CD4+ T cells. The strategy is amenable to the targeted delivery of biologics to other cell types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devin M Stranford
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Lacy M Simons
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Pathogen Genomics and Microbial Evolution, Northwestern University Havey Institute for Global Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Katherine E Berman
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Training Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Luyi Cheng
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Training Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Beth N DiBiase
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Michelle E Hung
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Training Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Julius B Lucks
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Training Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Judd F Hultquist
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Pathogen Genomics and Microbial Evolution, Northwestern University Havey Institute for Global Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua N Leonard
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Training Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Member, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Munoz-Robles BG, DeForest CA. Irreversible light-activated SpyLigation mediates split-protein assembly in 4D. Nat Protoc 2024; 19:1015-1052. [PMID: 38253657 PMCID: PMC11288621 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-023-00938-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The conditional assembly of split-protein pairs to modulate biological activity is commonly achieved by fusing split-protein fragments to dimerizing components that bring inactive pairs into close proximity in response to an exogenous trigger. However, current methods lack full spatial and temporal control over reconstitution, require sustained activation and lack specificity. Here light-activated SpyLigation (LASL), based on the photoregulation of the covalent SpyTag (ST)/SpyCatcher (SC) peptide-protein reaction, assembles nonfunctional split fragment pairs rapidly and irreversibly in solution, in engineered biomaterials and intracellularly. LASL introduces an ortho-nitrobenzyl(oNB)-caged lysine into SC's reactive site to generate a photoactivatable SC (pSC). Split-protein pairs of interest fused to pSC and ST are conditionally assembled via near-ultraviolet or pulsed near-infrared irradiation, as the uncaged SC can react with ST to ligate appended fragments. We describe procedures for the efficient synthesis of the photocaged amino acid that is incorporated within pSC (<5 days) as well as the design and cloning of LASL plasmids (1-4 days) for recombinant protein expression in either Escherichia coli (5-6 days) or mammalian cells (4-6 days), which require some prior expertise in protein engineering. We provide a chemoenzymatic scheme for appending bioorthogonal reactive handles onto E. coli-purified pSC protein (<4 days) that permits LASL component incorporation and patterned protein activation within many common biomaterial platforms. Given that LASL is irreversible, the photolithographic patterning procedures are fast and do not require sustained light exposure. Overall, LASL can be used to interrogate and modulate cell signaling in various settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brizzia G Munoz-Robles
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cole A DeForest
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
De Marchi D, Shaposhnikov R, Gobaa S, Pastorelli D, Batt G, Magni P, Pasotti L. Design and Model-Driven Analysis of Synthetic Circuits with the Staphylococcus aureus Dead-Cas9 (sadCas9) as a Programmable Transcriptional Regulator in Bacteria. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:763-780. [PMID: 38374729 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic circuit design is crucial for engineering microbes that process environmental cues and provide biologically relevant outputs. To reliably scale-up circuit complexity, the availability of parts toolkits is central. Streptococcus pyogenes (sp)-derived CRISPR interference/dead-Cas9 (CRISPRi/spdCas9) is widely adopted for implementing programmable regulations in synthetic circuits, and alternative CRISPRi systems will further expand our toolkits of orthogonal components. Here, we showcase the potential of CRISPRi using the engineered dCas9 from Staphylococcus aureus (sadCas9), not previously used in bacterial circuits, that is attractive for its low size and high specificity. We designed a collection of ∼20 increasingly complex circuits and variants in Escherichia coli, including circuits with static function like one-/two-input logic gates (NOT, NAND), circuits with dynamic behavior like incoherent feedforward loops (iFFLs), and applied sadCas9 to fix a T7 polymerase-based cascade. Data demonstrated specific and efficient target repression (100-fold) and qualitatively successful functioning for all circuits. Other advantageous features included low sadCas9-borne cell load and orthogonality with spdCas9. However, different circuit variants showed quantitatively unexpected and previously unreported steady-state responses: the dynamic range, switch point, and slope of NOT/NAND gates changed for different output promoters, and a multiphasic behavior was observed in iFFLs, differing from the expected bell-shaped or sigmoidal curves. Model analysis explained the observed curves by complex interplays among components, due to reporter gene-borne cell load and regulator competition. Overall, CRISPRi/sadCas9 successfully expanded the available toolkit for bacterial engineering. Analysis of our circuit collection depicted the impact of generally neglected effects modulating the shape of component dose-response curves, to avoid drawing wrong conclusions on circuit functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Davide De Marchi
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Roman Shaposhnikov
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Samy Gobaa
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, 28 Rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Daniele Pastorelli
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gregory Batt
- Institut Pasteur, Inria, Université Paris Cité, 28 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Paolo Magni
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Pasotti
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Institut Pasteur, Inria, Université Paris Cité, 28 rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mansouri M, Fussenegger M. Small-Molecule Regulators for Gene Switches to Program Mammalian Cell Behaviour. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300717. [PMID: 38081780 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic or natural small molecules have been extensively employed as trigger signals or inducers to regulate engineered gene circuits introduced into living cells in order to obtain desired outputs in a controlled and predictable manner. Here, we provide an overview of small molecules used to drive synthetic-biology-based gene circuits in mammalian cells, together with examples of applications at different levels of control, including regulation of DNA manipulation, RNA synthesis and editing, and protein synthesis, maturation, and trafficking. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of these small-molecule-responsive gene circuits, focusing on the advantages and disadvantages of using small molecules as triggers, the mechanisms involved, and the requirements for selecting suitable molecules, including efficiency, specificity, orthogonality, and safety. Finally, we explore potential future directions for translation of these devices to clinical medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maysam Mansouri
- ETH Zurich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Klingelbergstrasse 48, CH-4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- ETH Zurich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Klingelbergstrasse 48, CH-4056, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Faculty of Science, Klingelbergstrasse 48, CH-4056, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lodewijk GA, Kozuki S, Han C, Topacio BR, Zargari A, Lee S, Knight G, Ashton R, Qi LS, Shariati SA. Self-organization of embryonic stem cells into a reproducible embryo model through epigenome editing. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.05.583597. [PMID: 38496557 PMCID: PMC10942404 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.05.583597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can self-organize in vitro into developmental patterns with spatial organization and molecular similarity to that of early embryonic stages. This self-organization of ESCs requires transmission of signaling cues, via addition of small molecule chemicals or recombinant proteins, to induce distinct embryonic cellular fates and subsequent assembly into structures that can mimic aspects of early embryonic development. During natural embryonic development, different embryonic cell types co-develop together, where each cell type expresses specific fate-inducing transcription factors through activation of non-coding regulatory elements and interactions with neighboring cells. However, previous studies have not fully explored the possibility of engineering endogenous regulatory elements to shape self-organization of ESCs into spatially-ordered embryo models. Here, we hypothesized that cell-intrinsic activation of a minimum number of such endogenous regulatory elements is sufficient to self-organize ESCs into early embryonic models. Our results show that CRISPR-based activation (CRISPRa) of only two endogenous regulatory elements in the genome of pluripotent stem cells is sufficient to generate embryonic patterns that show spatial and molecular resemblance to that of pre-gastrulation mouse embryonic development. Quantitative single-cell live fluorescent imaging showed that the emergence of spatially-ordered embryonic patterns happens through the intrinsic induction of cell fate that leads to an orchestrated collective cellular motion. Based on these results, we propose a straightforward approach to efficiently form 3D embryo models through intrinsic CRISPRa-based epigenome editing and independent of external signaling cues. CRISPRa-Programmed Embryo Models (CPEMs) show highly consistent composition of major embryonic cell types that are spatially-organized, with nearly 80% of the structures forming an embryonic cavity. Single cell transcriptomics confirmed the presence of main embryonic cell types in CPEMs with transcriptional similarity to pre-gastrulation mouse embryos and revealed novel signaling communication links between different embryonic cell types. Our findings offer a programmable embryo model and demonstrate that minimum intrinsic epigenome editing is sufficient to self-organize ESCs into highly consistent pre-gastrulation embryo models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerrald A Lodewijk
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Institute for The Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Equal contribution to this work
| | - Sayaka Kozuki
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Institute for The Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Equal contribution to this work
| | - Clara Han
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Institute for The Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Benjamin R Topacio
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Institute for The Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Abolfazl Zargari
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Seungho Lee
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Institute for The Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
| | - Gavin Knight
- Neurosetta LLC, Madison, WI
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, Madison, WI
| | - Randolph Ashton
- Neurosetta LLC, Madison, WI
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, Madison, WI
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Lei S Qi
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - S Ali Shariati
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
- Institute for The Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ding Y, Tous C, Choi J, Chen J, Wong WW. Orthogonal inducible control of Cas13 circuits enables programmable RNA regulation in mammalian cells. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1572. [PMID: 38383558 PMCID: PMC10881482 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45795-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA plays an indispensable role in mammalian cell functions. Cas13, a class of RNA-guided ribonuclease, is a flexible tool for modifying and regulating coding and non-coding RNAs, with enormous potential for creating new cell functions. However, the lack of control over Cas13 activity has limited its cell engineering capability. Here, we present the CRISTAL (Control of RNA with Inducible SpliT CAs13 Orthologs and Exogenous Ligands) platform. CRISTAL is powered by a collection (10 total) of orthogonal split inducible Cas13 effectors that can be turned ON or OFF via small molecules in multiple cell types, providing precise temporal control. Also, we engineer Cas13 logic circuits that can respond to endogenous signaling and exogenous small molecule inputs. Furthermore, the orthogonality, low leakiness, and high dynamic range of our inducible Cas13d and Cas13b enable the design and construction of a robust incoherent feedforward loop, leading to near-perfect and tunable adaptation response. Finally, using our inducible Cas13 effectors, we achieve simultaneous multiplexed control of multiple genes in vitro and in mice. Together, our CRISTAL design represents a powerful platform for precisely regulating RNA dynamics to advance cell engineering and elucidate RNA biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yage Ding
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 2215, USA
| | - Cristina Tous
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 2215, USA
| | - Jaehoon Choi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 2215, USA
| | - Jingyao Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 2215, USA
| | - Wilson W Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, 2215, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Liang Y, Gao S, Qi X, Valentovich LN, An Y. Progress in Gene Editing and Metabolic Regulation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with CRISPR/Cas9 Tools. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:428-448. [PMID: 38326929 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The CRISPR/Cas9 systems have been developed as tools for genetic engineering and metabolic engineering in various organisms. In this review, various aspects of CRISPR/Cas9 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, from basic principles to practical applications, have been summarized. First, a comprehensive review has been conducted on the history of CRISPR/Cas9, successful cases of gene disruptions, and efficiencies of multiple DNA fragment insertions. Such advanced systems have accelerated the development of microbial engineering by reducing time and labor, and have enhanced the understanding of molecular genetics. Furthermore, the research progress of the CRISPR/Cas9-based systems in the production of high-value-added chemicals and the improvement of stress tolerance in S. cerevisiae have been summarized, which should have an important reference value for genetic and synthetic biology studies based on S. cerevisiae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaokun Liang
- College of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110065, China
| | - Song Gao
- College of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110065, China
| | - Xianghui Qi
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangdong 511370, China
| | - Leonid N Valentovich
- Institute of Microbiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk 220072, Belarus
| | - Yingfeng An
- College of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110065, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bischof J, Hierl M, Koller U. Emerging Gene Therapeutics for Epidermolysis Bullosa under Development. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2243. [PMID: 38396920 PMCID: PMC10889532 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042243] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The monogenetic disease epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is characterised by the formation of extended blisters and lesions on the patient's skin upon minimal mechanical stress. Causal for this severe condition are genetic mutations in genes, leading to the functional impairment, reduction, or absence of the encoded protein within the skin's basement membrane zone connecting the epidermis to the underlying dermis. The major burden of affected families justifies the development of long-lasting and curative therapies operating at the genomic level. The landscape of causal therapies for EB is steadily expanding due to recent breakthroughs in the gene therapy field, providing promising outcomes for patients suffering from this severe disease. Currently, two gene therapeutic approaches show promise for EB. The clinically more advanced gene replacement strategy was successfully applied in severe EB forms, leading to a ground-breaking in vivo gene therapy product named beremagene geperpavec (B-VEC) recently approved from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, the continuous innovations in both designer nucleases and gene editing technologies enable the efficient and potentially safe repair of mutations in EB in a potentially permanent manner, inspiring researchers in the field to define and reach new milestones in the therapy of EB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Bischof
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.B.); (M.H.)
| | - Markus Hierl
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.B.); (M.H.)
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.B.); (M.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Yu L, Marchisio MA. Scaffold RNA engineering in type V CRISPR-Cas systems: a potent way to enhance gene expression in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:1483-1497. [PMID: 38142459 PMCID: PMC10853767 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
New, orthogonal transcription factors in eukaryotic cells have been realized by engineering nuclease-deficient CRISPR-associated proteins and/or their guide RNAs. In this work, we present a new kind of orthogonal transcriptional activators, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, made by turning type V CRISPR RNA into a scaffold RNA (ScRNA) able to recruit a variable number of VP64 activation domains. The activator arises from the complex between the synthetic ScRNA and DNase-deficient type V Cas proteins: dCas12e and denAsCas12a. The transcription activation achieved via the newly engineered dCas:ScRNA system is up to 4.7-fold higher than that obtained with the direct fusion of VP64 to Cas proteins. The new transcription factors have been proven to be functional in circuits such as Boolean gates, converters, multiplex-gene and metabolic-pathway activation. Our results extend the CRISPR-Cas-based technology with a new effective tool that only demands RNA engineering and improves the current design of transcription factors based on type V Cas proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lifang Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, 300072 Tianjin, China
| | - Mario Andrea Marchisio
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, 300072 Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Synthetic Gene Circuits for Regulation of Next-Generation Cell-Based Therapeutics. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2309088. [PMID: 38126677 PMCID: PMC10885662 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309088] [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: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Arming human cells with synthetic gene circuits enables to expand their capacity to execute superior sensing and response actions, offering tremendous potential for innovative cellular therapeutics. This can be achieved by assembling components from an ever-expanding molecular toolkit, incorporating switches based on transcriptional, translational, or post-translational control mechanisms. This review provides examples from the three classes of switches, and discusses their advantages and limitations to regulate the activity of therapeutic cells in vivo. Genetic switches designed to recognize internal disease-associated signals often encode intricate actuation programs that orchestrate a reduction in the sensed signal, establishing a closed-loop architecture. Conversely, switches engineered to detect external molecular or physical cues operate in an open-loop fashion, switching on or off upon signal exposure. The integration of such synthetic gene circuits into the next generation of chimeric antigen receptor T-cells is already enabling precise calibration of immune responses in terms of magnitude and timing, thereby improving the potency and safety of therapeutic cells. Furthermore, pre-clinical engineered cells targeting other chronic diseases are gathering increasing attention, and this review discusses the path forward for achieving clinical success. With synthetic biology at the forefront, cellular therapeutics holds great promise for groundbreaking treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana P. Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and EngineeringETH ZurichKlingelbergstrasse 48BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and EngineeringETH ZurichKlingelbergstrasse 48BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
- Faculty of ScienceUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 48BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chen Y, Luo X, Kang R, Cui K, Ou J, Zhang X, Liang P. Current therapies for osteoarthritis and prospects of CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing in osteoarthritis treatment. J Genet Genomics 2024; 51:159-183. [PMID: 37516348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common degenerative joint diseases worldwide, causing pain, disability, and decreased quality of life. The balance between regeneration and inflammation-induced degradation results in multiple etiologies and complex pathogenesis of OA. Currently, there is a lack of effective therapeutic strategies for OA treatment. With the development of CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools, OA treatment has been improved by targeting genetic risk factors, activating chondrogenic elements, and modulating inflammatory regulators. Supported by cell therapy and in vivo delivery vectors, genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools may provide a promising approach for personalized OA therapy. This review summarizes CRISPR-based genome, epigenome, and RNA editing tools that can be applied to the treatment of OA and provides insights into the development of CRISPR-based therapeutics for OA treatment. Moreover, in-depth evaluations of the efficacy and safety of these tools in human OA treatment are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Xiao Luo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Rui Kang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Kaixin Cui
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China
| | - Jianping Ou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China
| | - Xiya Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, China.
| | - Puping Liang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Franko N, da Silva Santinha AJ, Xue S, Zhao H, Charpin-El Hamri G, Platt RJ, Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Integrated compact regulators of protein activity enable control of signaling pathways and genome-editing in vivo. Cell Discov 2024; 10:9. [PMID: 38263404 PMCID: PMC10805712 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-023-00632-1] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Viral proteases and clinically safe inhibitors were employed to build integrated compact regulators of protein activity (iCROP) for post-translational regulation of functional proteins by tunable proteolytic activity. In the absence of inhibitor, the co-localized/fused protease cleaves a target peptide sequence introduced in an exposed loop of the protein of interest, irreversibly fragmenting the protein structure and destroying its functionality. We selected three proteases and demonstrated the versatility of the iCROP framework by validating it to regulate the functional activity of ten different proteins. iCROP switches can be delivered either as mRNA or DNA, and provide rapid actuation kinetics with large induction ratios, while remaining strongly suppressed in the off state without inhibitor. iCROPs for effectors of the NF-κB and NFAT signaling pathways were assembled and confirmed to enable precise activation/inhibition of downstream events in response to protease inhibitors. In lipopolysaccharide-treated mice, iCROP-sr-IκBα suppressed cytokine release ("cytokine storm") by rescuing the activity of IκBα, which suppresses NF-κB signaling. We also constructed compact inducible CRISPR-(d)Cas9 variants and showed that iCROP-Cas9-mediated knockout of the PCSK9 gene in the liver lowered blood LDL-cholesterol levels in mice. iCROP-based protein switches will facilitate protein-level regulation in basic research and translational applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nik Franko
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Shuai Xue
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Haijie Zhao
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ghislaine Charpin-El Hamri
- Département Génie Biologique, Institut Universitaire de Technologie, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, Cedex, France
| | | | - Ana Palma Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zheng F, Kawabe Y, Kamihira M. RNA Aptamer-Mediated Gene Activation Systems for Inducible Transgene Expression in Animal Cells. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:230-241. [PMID: 38073086 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
RNA expression analyses can be used to obtain various information from inside cells, such as physical conditions, the chemical environment, and endogenous signals. For detecting RNA, the system regulating intracellular gene expression has the potential for monitoring RNA expression levels in real time within living cells. Synthetic biology provides powerful tools for detecting and analyzing RNA inside cells. Here, we devised an RNA aptamer-mediated gene activation system, RAMGA, to induce RNA-triggered gene expression activation by employing an inducible complex formation strategy grounded in synthetic biology. This methodology connects DNA-binding domains and transactivators through target RNA using RNA-binding domains, including phage coat proteins. MS2 bacteriophage coat protein fused with a transcriptional activator and PP7 bacteriophage coat protein fused with the tetracycline repressor (tetR) can be bridged by target RNA encoding MS2 and PP7 stem-loops, resulting in transcriptional activation. We generated recombinant CHO cells containing an inducible GFP expression module governed by a minimal promoter with a tetR-responsive element. Cells carrying the trigger RNA exhibited robust reporter gene expression, whereas cells lacking it exhibited no expression. GFP expression was upregulated over 200-fold compared with that in cells without a target RNA expression vector. Moreover, this system can detect the expression of mRNA tagged with aptamer tags and modulate reporter gene expression based on the target mRNA level without affecting the expression of the original mRNA-encoding gene. The RNA-triggered gene expression systems developed in this study have potential as a new platform for establishing gene circuits, evaluating endogenous gene expression, and developing novel RNA detectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feiyang Zheng
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kawabe
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Masamichi Kamihira
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
O’Laughlin R, Tran Q, Lezia A, Ngamkanjanarat W, Emmanuele P, Hao N, Hasty J. A Standardized Set of MoClo-Compatible Inducible Promoter Systems for Tunable Gene Expression in Yeast. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:85-102. [PMID: 38079574 PMCID: PMC11283237 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Small-molecule control of gene expression underlies the function of numerous engineered gene circuits that are capable of environmental sensing, computation, and memory. While many recently developed inducible promoters have been tailor-made for bacteria or mammalian cells, relatively few new systems have been built for Saccharomyces cerevisiae, limiting the scale of synthetic biology work that can be done in yeast. To address this, we created the yeast Tunable Expression Systems Toolkit (yTEST), which contains a set of five extensively characterized inducible promoter systems regulated by the small-molecules doxycycline (Dox), abscisic acid (ABA), danoprevir (DNV), 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), and 5-phenyl-indole-3-acetic acid (5-Ph-IAA). Assembly was made to be compatible with the modular cloning yeast toolkit (MoClo-YTK) to enhance the ease of use and provide a framework to benchmark and standardize each system. Using this approach, we built multiple systems with maximal expression levels greater than those of the strong constitutive TDH3 promoter. Furthermore, each of the five classes of systems could be induced at least 60-fold after a 6 h induction and the highest fold change observed was approximately 300. Thus, yTEST provides a reliable, diverse, and customizable set of inducible promoters to modulate gene expression in yeast for applications in synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and basic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard O’Laughlin
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States; Present Address: Present address: Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States (R.O.)
| | - Quoc Tran
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States; Present Address: Present address: Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States (Q.T.)
| | - Andrew Lezia
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Wasu Ngamkanjanarat
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Philip Emmanuele
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Nan Hao
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States; Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences and Synthetic Biology Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Jeff Hasty
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States; Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences and Synthetic Biology Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
DelRosso N, Bintu L. Using High-Throughput Measurements to Identify Principles of Transcriptional and Epigenetic Regulators. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2842:79-101. [PMID: 39012591 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4051-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
To achieve exquisite control over the epigenome, we need a better predictive understanding of how transcription factors, chromatin regulators, and their individual domain's function, both as modular parts and as full proteins. Transcriptional effector domains are one class of protein domains that regulate transcription and chromatin. These effector domains either repress or activate gene expression by interacting with chromatin-modifying enzymes, transcriptional cofactors, and/or general transcriptional machinery. Here, we discuss important design considerations for high-throughput investigations of effector domains, recent advances in discovering new domains in human cells and testing how domain function depends on amino acid sequence. For every effector domain, we would like to know the following: What role does the cell type, signaling state, and targeted context have on activation, silencing, and epigenetic memory? Large-scale measurements of transcriptional activities can help systematically answer these questions and identify general rules for how all these parameters affect effector domain activities. Last, we discuss what steps need to be taken to turn a newly discovered effector domain into a robust, precise epigenome editor. With more carefully considered high-throughput investigations, soon we will have better predictive control over the epigenome.
Collapse
|
29
|
Noviello G, Gjaltema RAF. Fine-Tuning the Epigenetic Landscape: Chemical Modulation of Epigenome Editors. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2842:57-77. [PMID: 39012590 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4051-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Epigenome editing has emerged as a powerful technique for targeted manipulation of the chromatin and transcriptional landscape, employing designer DNA binding domains fused with effector domains, known as epi-editors. However, the constitutive expression of dCas9-based epi-editors presents challenges, including off-target activity and lack of temporal resolution. Recent advancements of dCas9-based epi-editors have addressed these limitations by introducing innovative switch systems that enable temporal control of their activity. These systems allow precise modulation of gene expression over time and offer a means to deactivate epi-editors, thereby reducing off-target effects associated with prolonged expression. The development of novel dCas9 effectors regulated by exogenous chemical signals has revolutionized temporal control in epigenome editing, significantly expanding the researcher's toolbox. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the current state of these cutting-edge systems and specifically discuss their advantages and limitations, offering context to better understand their capabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Noviello
- Epigenetics & Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Rome, Italy
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rutger A F Gjaltema
- Molecular & Cellular Epigenetics, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Tyumentseva M, Tyumentsev A, Akimkin V. CRISPR/Cas9 Landscape: Current State and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16077. [PMID: 38003266 PMCID: PMC10671331 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 is a unique genome editing tool that can be easily used in a wide range of applications, including functional genomics, transcriptomics, epigenetics, biotechnology, plant engineering, livestock breeding, gene therapy, diagnostics, and so on. This review is focused on the current CRISPR/Cas9 landscape, e.g., on Cas9 variants with improved properties, on Cas9-derived and fusion proteins, on Cas9 delivery methods, on pre-existing immunity against CRISPR/Cas9 proteins, anti-CRISPR proteins, and their possible roles in CRISPR/Cas9 function improvement. Moreover, this review presents a detailed outline of CRISPR/Cas9-based diagnostics and therapeutic approaches. Finally, the review addresses the future expansion of genome editors' toolbox with Cas9 orthologs and other CRISPR/Cas proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Tyumentseva
- Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, Novogireevskaya Str., 3a, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (A.T.); (V.A.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ravid Lustig L, Sampath Kumar A, Schwämmle T, Dunkel I, Noviello G, Limberg E, Weigert R, Pacini G, Buschow R, Ghauri A, Stötzel M, Wittler L, Meissner A, Schulz EG. GATA transcription factors drive initial Xist upregulation after fertilization through direct activation of long-range enhancers. Nat Cell Biol 2023; 25:1704-1715. [PMID: 37932452 PMCID: PMC10635832 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-023-01266-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) balances gene expression between the sexes in female mammals. Shortly after fertilization, upregulation of Xist RNA from one X chromosome initiates XCI, leading to chromosome-wide gene silencing. XCI is maintained in all cell types, except the germ line and the pluripotent state where XCI is reversed. The mechanisms triggering Xist upregulation have remained elusive. Here we identify GATA transcription factors as potent activators of Xist. Through a pooled CRISPR activation screen in murine embryonic stem cells, we demonstrate that GATA1, as well as other GATA transcription factors can drive ectopic Xist expression. Moreover, we describe GATA-responsive regulatory elements in the Xist locus bound by different GATA factors. Finally, we show that GATA factors are essential for XCI induction in mouse preimplantation embryos. Deletion of GATA1/4/6 or GATA-responsive Xist enhancers in mouse zygotes effectively prevents Xist upregulation. We propose that the activity or complete absence of various GATA family members controls initial Xist upregulation, XCI maintenance in extra-embryonic lineages and XCI reversal in the epiblast.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liat Ravid Lustig
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Abhishek Sampath Kumar
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Till Schwämmle
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ilona Dunkel
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gemma Noviello
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elodie Limberg
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Raha Weigert
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Biotechnology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Guido Pacini
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - René Buschow
- Microscopy and Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Afrah Ghauri
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Stötzel
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Transgenic Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Meissner
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Edda G Schulz
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Barbier I, Kusumawardhani H, Chauhan L, Harlapur PV, Jolly MK, Schaerli Y. Synthetic Gene Circuits Combining CRISPR Interference and CRISPR Activation in E. coli: Importance of Equal Guide RNA Binding Affinities to Avoid Context-Dependent Effects. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:3064-3071. [PMID: 37813387 PMCID: PMC10594877 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Gene expression control based on clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) has emerged as a powerful approach for constructing synthetic gene circuits. While the use of CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) is already well-established in prokaryotic circuits, CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) is less mature, and a combination of the two in the same circuits is only just emerging. Here, we report that combining CRISPRi with SoxS-based CRISPRa in Escherichia coli can lead to context-dependent effects due to different affinities in the formation of CRISPRa and CRISPRi complexes, resulting in loss of predictable behavior. We show that this effect can be avoided by using the same scaffold guide RNA structure for both complexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Içvara Barbier
- Department
of Fundamental Microbiology, University
of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Lakshya Chauhan
- Department
of Fundamental Microbiology, University
of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department
of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, 560012 Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Department
of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, 560012 Bengaluru, India
| | - Yolanda Schaerli
- Department
of Fundamental Microbiology, University
of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
Multicellular organisms generate tissues of diverse shapes and functions from cells and extracellular matrices. Their adhesion molecules mediate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, which not only play crucial roles in maintaining tissue integrity but also serve as key regulators of tissue morphogenesis. Cells constantly probe their environment to make decisions: They integrate chemical and mechanical information from the environment via diffusible ligand- or adhesion-based signaling to decide whether to release specific signaling molecules or enzymes, to divide or differentiate, to move away or stay, or even whether to live or die. These decisions in turn modify their environment, including the chemical nature and mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix. Tissue morphology is the physical manifestation of the remodeling of cells and matrices by their historical biochemical and biophysical landscapes. We review our understanding of matrix and adhesion molecules in tissue morphogenesis, with an emphasis on key physical interactions that drive morphogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA;
| | - Kenneth M Yamada
- Cell Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA;
| | - Shaohe Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Mesaki K, Juvet S, Yeung J, Guan Z, Wilson GW, Hu J, Davidson AR, Kleinstiver BP, Cypel M, Liu M, Keshavjee S. Immunomodulation of the donor lung with CRISPR-mediated activation of IL-10 expression. J Heart Lung Transplant 2023; 42:1363-1377. [PMID: 37315746 PMCID: PMC10538378 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory injury in the donor lung remains a persistent challenge in lung transplantation that limits donor organ usage and post-transplant outcomes. Inducing immunomodulatory capacity in donor organs could address this unsolved clinical problem. We sought to apply clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated (Cas) technologies to the donor lung to fine-tune immunomodulatory gene expression, exploring for the first time the therapeutic use of CRISPR-mediated transcriptional activation in the whole donor lung. METHODS We explored the feasibility of CRISPR-mediated transcriptional upregulation of interleukin 10 (IL-10), a key immunomodulatory cytokine, in vitro and in vivo. We first evaluated the potency, titratability, and multiplexibility of the gene activation in rat and human cell lines. Next, in vivo CRISPR-mediated IL-10 activation was characterized in rat lungs. Finally, the IL-10-activated donor lungs were transplanted into recipient rats to assess the feasibility in a transplant setting. RESULTS The targeted transcriptional activation induced robust and titrable IL-10 upregulation in vitro. The combination of guide RNAs also facilitated multiplex gene modulation, that is, simultaneous activation of IL-10 and IL1 receptor antagonist. In vivo profiling demonstrated that adenoviral delivery of Cas9-based activators to the lung was feasible with the use of immunosuppression, which is routinely applied to organ transplant recipients. The transcriptionally modulated donor lungs retained IL-10 upregulation in isogeneic and allogeneic recipients. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the potential of CRISPR epigenome editing to improve lung transplant outcomes by creating a more favorable immunomodulatory environment in the donor organ, a paradigm that may be extendable to other organ transplants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kumi Mesaki
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen Juvet
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan Yeung
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zehong Guan
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gavin W Wilson
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Surgery, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jim Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Translation Medicine Program, the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alan R Davidson
- Department of Biochemistry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benjamin P Kleinstiver
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marcelo Cypel
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mingyao Liu
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shaf Keshavjee
- From the Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhao J, Hu H, Zhou H, Zhang J, Wang L, Wang R. Reactive oxygen signaling molecule inducible regulation of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:2421-2429. [PMID: 35644856 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-022-09723-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
We report development of a controllable gene editing tool that boronated gRNA, simply generated in situ, could regulate binding of gRNA molecules with either Cas9 endonuclease or target genes, thus serving as a modulator that can control CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Subsequent treatment with H2O2 facilitates the restoration of gene editing ability of the boronated gRNA to the level of using untreated gRNA. This is one of the few cases using small molecule to regulate CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, which is a complement to the light approach, displaying great application potential. We develop a controllable gene editing tools based on the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system. This tool can be regulated by oxidative small molecule, i.e., H2O2. Compared with the light method, the application scope of our CRISPR-Cas9 systems have been widened with the small-molecule-triggered approaches, preventing the potential damage of cells or organism caused by UV light. In addition, the gain-of-function tools are expanding the gene code expansion for mechanistic studies of target enzymes since it provides a positive route to evaluate the activity of a given enzyme in dynamic and inversible regulation of targeting cellular processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jizhong Zhao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hongmei Hu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hongling Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Li Wang
- Wuhan No.1 Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Shui S, Buckley S, Scheller L, Correia BE. Rational design of small-molecule responsive protein switches. Protein Sci 2023; 32:e4774. [PMID: 37656809 PMCID: PMC10510469 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4774] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Small-molecule responsive protein switches are powerful tools for controlling cellular processes. These switches are designed to respond rapidly and specifically to their inducer. They have been used in numerous applications, including the regulation of gene expression, post-translational protein modification, and signal transduction. Typically, small-molecule responsive protein switches consist of two proteins that interact with each other in the presence or absence of a small molecule. Recent advances in computational protein design already contributed to the development of protein switches with an expanded range of small-molecule inducers and increasingly sophisticated switch mechanisms. Further progress in the engineering of small-molecule responsive switches is fueled by cutting-edge computational design approaches, which will enable more complex and precise control over cellular processes and advance synthetic biology applications in biotechnology and medicine. Here, we discuss recent milestones and how technological advances are impacting the development of chemical switches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sailan Shui
- Laboratory of Protein Design and Immunoengineering (LPDI)STI, EPFLLausanneSwitzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB)LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Stephen Buckley
- Laboratory of Protein Design and Immunoengineering (LPDI)STI, EPFLLausanneSwitzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB)LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Leo Scheller
- Laboratory of Protein Design and Immunoengineering (LPDI)STI, EPFLLausanneSwitzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB)LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Bruno E. Correia
- Laboratory of Protein Design and Immunoengineering (LPDI)STI, EPFLLausanneSwitzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB)LausanneSwitzerland
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Mukund AX, Tycko J, Allen SJ, Robinson SA, Andrews C, Sinha J, Ludwig CH, Spees K, Bassik MC, Bintu L. High-throughput functional characterization of combinations of transcriptional activators and repressors. Cell Syst 2023; 14:746-763.e5. [PMID: 37543039 PMCID: PMC10642976 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2023.07.001] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite growing knowledge of the functions of individual human transcriptional effector domains, much less is understood about how multiple effector domains within the same protein combine to regulate gene expression. Here, we measure transcriptional activity for 8,400 effector domain combinations by recruiting them to reporter genes in human cells. In our assay, weak and moderate activation domains synergize to drive strong gene expression, whereas combining strong activators often results in weaker activation. In contrast, repressors combine linearly and produce full gene silencing, and repressor domains often overpower activation domains. We use this information to build a synthetic transcription factor whose function can be tuned between repression and activation independent of recruitment to target genes by using a small-molecule drug. Altogether, we outline the basic principles of how effector domains combine to regulate gene expression and demonstrate their value in building precise and flexible synthetic biology tools. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the supplemental information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adi X Mukund
- Biophysics Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Josh Tycko
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sage J Allen
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Cecelia Andrews
- Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Joydeb Sinha
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Connor H Ludwig
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Spees
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael C Bassik
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Lacramioara Bintu
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wang X, Zhou X, Kang L, Lai Y, Ye H. Engineering natural molecule-triggered genetic control systems for tunable gene- and cell-based therapies. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2023; 8:416-426. [PMID: 37384125 PMCID: PMC10293594 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to precisely control activities of engineered designer cells provides a novel strategy for modern precision medicine. Dynamically adjustable gene- and cell-based precision therapies are recognized as next generation medicines. However, the translation of these controllable therapeutics into clinical practice is severely hampered by the lack of safe and highly specific genetic switches controlled by triggers that are nontoxic and side-effect free. Recently, natural products derived from plants have been extensively explored as trigger molecules to control genetic switches and synthetic gene networks for multiple applications. These controlled genetic switches could be further introduced into mammalian cells to obtain synthetic designer cells for adjustable and fine tunable cell-based precision therapy. In this review, we introduce various available natural molecules that were engineered to control genetic switches for controllable transgene expression, complex logic computation, and therapeutic drug delivery to achieve precision therapy. We also discuss current challenges and prospects in translating these natural molecule-controlled genetic switches developed for biomedical applications from the laboratory to the clinic.
Collapse
|
39
|
Umaña JD, Wasserman SR, Song L, Goel AA, Yu X, Jin J, Hathaway NA. Chemical Epigenetic Regulation of Adeno-Associated Virus Delivered Transgenes. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:947-957. [PMID: 37624737 PMCID: PMC10517330 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.005] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a powerful gene therapy vector that has been used in several FDA-approved therapies as well as in multiple clinical trials. This vector has high therapeutic versatility with the ability to deliver genetic payloads to a variety of human tissue types, yet there is currently a lack of transgene expression control once the virus is administered. There are also times when transgene expression is too low for the desired therapeutic outcome, necessitating high viral dose administration resulting in possible immunological complications. Herein, we validate a chemically controllable AAV transgene expression technology in vitro that utilizes bifunctional molecules known as chemical epigenetic modifiers (CEMs). These compounds employ endogenous epigenetic machinery to specifically enhance transgene expression of episomal DNA. A recombinant AAV (rAAV) was designed to both deliver the reporter transgene as well as deliver a synthetic zinc finger (ZFs) protein fused to FK506 binding protein (FKBP). These synthetic ZFs target a DNA-binding array sequence upstream of the promoter expressing the AAV transgene to specifically enhance AAV transgene expression in the presence of a CEM. The transcriptional activating compound CEM87 functions by recruiting the epigenetic transcription activator bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4), increasing AAV transgene activity up to fivefold in a dose-dependent manner in HEK293T cells. The highest levels of transgene product activity are seen 24 h following CEM87 treatment. Additionally, the CEM87-mediated enhancement of different transgene products with either Luciferase or green fluorescent protein (GFP) was observed in multiple cell lines and enhancement of transgene expression was capsid serotype independent. The impact of CEM87 activity can be disrupted through drug removal or chemical recruitment site competition with FK506, thus demonstrating the reversibility of the impact of CEM87 on transgene expression. Collectively, this chemically controllable rAAV transgene technology provides temporal gene expression control that could increase the safety and efficiency of AAV-based research and therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D. Umaña
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry,Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sara R. Wasserman
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry,Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Liujiang Song
- Gene Therapy Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Arushi A. Goel
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry,Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Xufen Yu
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nathaniel A. Hathaway
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry,Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wei CT, Popp NA, Peleg O, Powell RL, Borenstein E, Maly DJ, Fowler DM. A chemically controlled Cas9 switch enables temporal modulation of diverse effectors. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:981-991. [PMID: 36879061 PMCID: PMC10480357 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01278-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 has yielded a plethora of effectors, including targeted transcriptional activators, base editors and prime editors. Current approaches for inducibly modulating Cas9 activity lack temporal precision and require extensive screening and optimization. We describe a versatile, chemically controlled and rapidly activated single-component DNA-binding Cas9 switch, ciCas9, which we use to confer temporal control over seven Cas9 effectors, including two cytidine base editors, two adenine base editors, a dual base editor, a prime editor and a transcriptional activator. Using these temporally controlled effectors, we analyze base editing kinetics, showing that editing occurs within hours and that rapid early editing of nucleotides predicts eventual editing magnitude. We also reveal that editing at preferred nucleotides within target sites increases the frequency of bystander edits. Thus, the ciCas9 switch offers a simple, versatile approach to generating chemically controlled Cas9 effectors, informing future effector engineering and enabling precise temporal effector control for kinetic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cindy T Wei
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas A Popp
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Omri Peleg
- The Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rachel L Powell
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elhanan Borenstein
- The Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM, USA
| | - Dustin J Maly
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Douglas M Fowler
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ichikawa DM, Abdin O, Alerasool N, Kogenaru M, Mueller AL, Wen H, Giganti DO, Goldberg GW, Adams S, Spencer JM, Razavi R, Nim S, Zheng H, Gionco C, Clark FT, Strokach A, Hughes TR, Lionnet T, Taipale M, Kim PM, Noyes MB. A universal deep-learning model for zinc finger design enables transcription factor reprogramming. Nat Biotechnol 2023; 41:1117-1129. [PMID: 36702896 PMCID: PMC10421740 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-022-01624-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Cys2His2 zinc finger (ZF) domains engineered to bind specific target sequences in the genome provide an effective strategy for programmable regulation of gene expression, with many potential therapeutic applications. However, the structurally intricate engagement of ZF domains with DNA has made their design challenging. Here we describe the screening of 49 billion protein-DNA interactions and the development of a deep-learning model, ZFDesign, that solves ZF design for any genomic target. ZFDesign is a modern machine learning method that models global and target-specific differences induced by a range of library environments and specifically takes into account compatibility of neighboring fingers using a novel hierarchical transformer architecture. We demonstrate the versatility of designed ZFs as nucleases as well as activators and repressors by seamless reprogramming of human transcription factors. These factors could be used to upregulate an allele of haploinsufficiency, downregulate a gain-of-function mutation or test the consequence of regulation of a single gene as opposed to the many genes that a transcription factor would normally influence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David M Ichikawa
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Osama Abdin
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nader Alerasool
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Manjunatha Kogenaru
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - April L Mueller
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Han Wen
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David O Giganti
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gregory W Goldberg
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Samantha Adams
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Spencer
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rozita Razavi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Satra Nim
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hong Zheng
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Courtney Gionco
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Finnegan T Clark
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexey Strokach
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Timothy R Hughes
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Timothee Lionnet
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mikko Taipale
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip M Kim
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Marcus B Noyes
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Alba Burbano D, Cardiff RAL, Tickman BI, Kiattisewee C, Maranas CJ, Zalatan JG, Carothers JM. Engineering activatable promoters for scalable and multi-input CRISPRa/i circuits. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2220358120. [PMID: 37463216 PMCID: PMC10374173 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2220358120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic, multi-input gene regulatory networks (GRNs) are ubiquitous in nature. Multilayer CRISPR-based genetic circuits hold great promise for building GRNs akin to those found in naturally occurring biological systems. We develop an approach for creating high-performing activatable promoters that can be assembled into deep, wide, and multi-input CRISPR-activation and -interference (CRISPRa/i) GRNs. By integrating sequence-based design and in vivo screening, we engineer activatable promoters that achieve up to 1,000-fold dynamic range in an Escherichia coli-based cell-free system. These components enable CRISPRa GRNs that are six layers deep and four branches wide. We show the generalizability of the promoter engineering workflow by improving the dynamic range of the light-dependent EL222 optogenetic system from 6-fold to 34-fold. Additionally, high dynamic range promoters enable CRISPRa systems mediated by small molecules and protein-protein interactions. We apply these tools to build input-responsive CRISPRa/i GRNs, including feedback loops, logic gates, multilayer cascades, and dynamic pulse modulators. Our work provides a generalizable approach for the design of high dynamic range activatable promoters and enables classes of gene regulatory functions in cell-free systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Alba Burbano
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - Ryan A. L. Cardiff
- Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - Benjamin I. Tickman
- Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - Cholpisit Kiattisewee
- Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - Cassandra J. Maranas
- Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - Jesse G. Zalatan
- Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - James M. Carothers
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Molecular Engineering & Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Liu Y, Cottle WT, Ha T. Mapping cellular responses to DNA double-strand breaks using CRISPR technologies. Trends Genet 2023; 39:560-574. [PMID: 36967246 PMCID: PMC11062594 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are one of the most genotoxic DNA lesions, driving a range of pathological defects from cancers to immunodeficiencies. To combat genomic instability caused by DSBs, evolution has outfitted cells with an intricate protein network dedicated to the rapid and accurate repair of these lesions. Pioneering studies have identified and characterized many crucial repair factors in this network, while the advent of genome manipulation tools like clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) has reinvigorated interest in DSB repair mechanisms. This review surveys the latest methodological advances and biological insights gained by utilizing Cas9 as a precise 'damage inducer' for the study of DSB repair. We highlight rapidly inducible Cas9 systems that enable synchronized and efficient break induction. When combined with sequencing and genome-specific imaging approaches, inducible Cas9 systems greatly expand our capability to spatiotemporally characterize cellular responses to DSB at specific genomic coordinates, providing mechanistic insights that were previously unobtainable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - W Taylor Cottle
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Taekjip Ha
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Noviello G, Gjaltema RAF, Schulz EG. CasTuner is a degron and CRISPR/Cas-based toolkit for analog tuning of endogenous gene expression. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3225. [PMID: 37270532 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38909-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Certain cellular processes are dose-dependent, requiring specific quantities or stoichiometries of gene products, as exemplified by haploinsufficiency and sex-chromosome dosage compensation. Understanding dosage-sensitive processes requires tools to quantitatively modulate protein abundance. Here we present CasTuner, a CRISPR-based toolkit for analog tuning of endogenous gene expression. The system exploits Cas-derived repressors that are quantitatively tuned by ligand titration through a FKBP12F36V degron domain. CasTuner can be applied at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level using a histone deacetylase (hHDAC4) fused to dCas9, or the RNA-targeting CasRx, respectively. We demonstrate analog tuning of gene expression homogeneously across cells in mouse and human cells, as opposed to KRAB-dependent CRISPR-interference systems, which exhibit digital repression. Finally, we quantify the system's dynamics and use it to measure dose-response relationships of NANOG and OCT4 with their target genes and with the cellular phenotype. CasTuner thus provides an easy-to-implement tool to study dose-responsive processes in their physiological context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Noviello
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rutger A F Gjaltema
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Edda G Schulz
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Zhang Y, Chen S, Yang L, Zhang Q. Application progress of CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technology in edible fungi. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1169884. [PMID: 37303782 PMCID: PMC10248459 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1169884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible fungi are not only delicious but are also rich in nutritional and medicinal value, which is highly sought after by consumers. As the edible fungi industry continues to rapidly advance worldwide, particularly in China, the cultivation of superior and innovative edible fungi strains has become increasingly pivotal. Nevertheless, conventional breeding techniques for edible fungi can be arduous and time-consuming. CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9) is a powerful tool for molecular breeding due to its ability to mediate high-efficiency and high-precision genome modification, which has been successfully applied to many kinds of edible fungi. In this review, we briefly summarized the working mechanism of the CRISPR/Cas9 system and highlighted the application progress of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome-editing technology in edible fungi, including Agaricus bisporus, Ganoderma lucidum, Flammulina filiformis, Ustilago maydis, Pleurotus eryngii, Pleurotus ostreatus, Coprinopsis cinerea, Schizophyllum commune, Cordyceps militaris, and Shiraia bambusicola. Additionally, we discussed the limitations and challenges encountered using CRISPR/Cas9 technology in edible fungi and provided potential solutions. Finally, the applications of CRISPR/Cas9 system for molecular breeding of edible fungi in the future are explored.
Collapse
|
46
|
Glinšek K, Bozovičar K, Bratkovič T. CRISPR Technologies in Chinese Hamster Ovary Cell Line Engineering. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098144. [PMID: 37175850 PMCID: PMC10179654 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line is a well-established platform for the production of biopharmaceuticals due to its ability to express complex therapeutic proteins with human-like glycopatterns in high amounts. The advent of CRISPR technology has opened up new avenues for the engineering of CHO cell lines for improved protein production and enhanced product quality. This review summarizes recent advances in the application of CRISPR technology for CHO cell line engineering with a particular focus on glycosylation modulation, productivity enhancement, tackling adventitious agents, elimination of problematic host cell proteins, development of antibiotic-free selection systems, site-specific transgene integration, and CRISPR-mediated gene activation and repression. The review highlights the potential of CRISPR technology in CHO cell line genome editing and epigenetic engineering for the more efficient and cost-effective development of biopharmaceuticals while ensuring the safety and quality of the final product.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katja Glinšek
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Krištof Bozovičar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Bratkovič
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Allemailem KS, Almatroodi SA, Almatroudi A, Alrumaihi F, Al Abdulmonem W, Al-Megrin WAI, Aljamaan AN, Rahmani AH, Khan AA. Recent Advances in Genome-Editing Technology with CRISPR/Cas9 Variants and Stimuli-Responsive Targeting Approaches within Tumor Cells: A Future Perspective of Cancer Management. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7052. [PMID: 37108214 PMCID: PMC10139162 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The innovative advances in transforming clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) into different variants have taken the art of genome-editing specificity to new heights. Allosteric modulation of Cas9-targeting specificity by sgRNA sequence alterations and protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) modifications have been a good lesson to learn about specificity and activity scores in different Cas9 variants. Some of the high-fidelity Cas9 variants have been ranked as Sniper-Cas9, eSpCas9 (1.1), SpCas9-HF1, HypaCas9, xCas9, and evoCas9. However, the selection of an ideal Cas9 variant for a given target sequence remains a challenging task. A safe and efficient delivery system for the CRISPR/Cas9 complex at tumor target sites faces considerable challenges, and nanotechnology-based stimuli-responsive delivery approaches have significantly contributed to cancer management. Recent innovations in nanoformulation design, such as pH, glutathione (GSH), photo, thermal, and magnetic responsive systems, have modernized the art of CRISPR/Cas9 delivery approaches. These nanoformulations possess enhanced cellular internalization, endosomal membrane disruption/bypass, and controlled release. In this review, we aim to elaborate on different CRISPR/Cas9 variants and advances in stimuli-responsive nanoformulations for the specific delivery of this endonuclease system. Furthermore, the critical constraints of this endonuclease system on clinical translations towards the management of cancer and prospects are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khaled S. Allemailem
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A. Almatroodi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Almatroudi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris Alrumaihi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al Abdulmonem
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafa Abdullah I. Al-Megrin
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Arshad Husain Rahmani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad Ali Khan
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ding Y, Tous C, Choi J, Chen J, Wong WW. Orthogonal inducible control of Cas13 circuits enables programmable RNA regulation in mammalian cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.20.533499. [PMID: 36993327 PMCID: PMC10055290 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.20.533499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
RNA plays an indispensable role in mammalian cell functions. Cas13, a class of RNA-guided ribonuclease, is a flexible tool for modifying and regulating coding and non-coding RNAs, with enormous potential for creating new cell functions. However, the lack of control over Cas13 activity has limited its cell engineering capability. Here, we present the CRISTAL ( C ontrol of R NA with Inducible S pli T C A s13 Orthologs and Exogenous L igands) platform. CRISTAL is powered by a collection (10 total) of orthogonal split inducible Cas13s that can be turned ON or OFF via small molecules in multiple cell types, providing precise temporal control. Also, we engineered Cas13 logic circuits that can respond to endogenous signaling and exogenous small molecule inputs. Furthermore, the orthogonality, low leakiness, and high dynamic range of our inducible Cas13d and Cas13b enable the design and construction of a robust incoherent feedforward loop, leading to near-perfect and tunable adaptation response. Finally, using our inducible Cas13s, we achieve simultaneous multiplexed control of multiple genes in vitro and in mice. Together, our CRISTAL design represents a powerful platform for precisely regulating RNA dynamics to advance cell engineering and elucidate RNA biology.
Collapse
|
49
|
Bertschi A, Wang P, Galvan S, Teixeira AP, Fussenegger M. Combinatorial protein dimerization enables precise multi-input synthetic computations. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:767-777. [PMID: 36894721 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01281-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial transcription factors (TFs) with helix-turn-helix (HTH) DNA-binding domains have been widely explored to build orthogonal transcriptional regulation systems in mammalian cells. Here we capitalize on the modular structure of these proteins to build a framework for multi-input logic gates relying on serial combinations of inducible protein-protein interactions. We found that for some TFs, their HTH domain alone is sufficient for DNA binding. By fusing the HTH domain to TFs, we established dimerization dependent rather than DNA-binding-dependent activation. This enabled us to convert gene switches from OFF-type into more widely applicable ON-type systems and to create mammalian gene switches responsive to new inducers. By combining both OFF and ON modes of action, we built a compact, high-performance bandpass filter. Furthermore, we were able to show cytosolic and extracellular dimerization. Cascading up to five pairwise fusion proteins yielded robust multi-input AND logic gates. Combinations of different pairwise fusion proteins afforded a variety of 4-input 1-output AND and OR logic gate configurations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Bertschi
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pengli Wang
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Galvan
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ana Palma Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, Faculty of Science, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ewaisha R, Anderson KS. Immunogenicity of CRISPR therapeutics-Critical considerations for clinical translation. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1138596. [PMID: 36873375 PMCID: PMC9978118 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1138596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR offers new hope for many patients and promises to transform the way we think of future therapies. Ensuring safety of CRISPR therapeutics is a top priority for clinical translation and specific recommendations have been recently released by the FDA. Rapid progress in the preclinical and clinical development of CRISPR therapeutics leverages years of experience with gene therapy successes and failures. Adverse events due to immunogenicity have been a major setback that has impacted the field of gene therapy. As several in vivo CRISPR clinical trials make progress, the challenge of immunogenicity remains a significant roadblock to the clinical availability and utility of CRISPR therapeutics. In this review, we examine what is currently known about the immunogenicity of CRISPR therapeutics and discuss several considerations to mitigate immunogenicity for the design of safe and clinically translatable CRISPR therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radwa Ewaisha
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Pharmacy, Newgiza University, Newgiza, Egypt
| | - Karen S. Anderson
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, United States
| |
Collapse
|