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Bisht D, Salave S, Desai N, Gogoi P, Rana D, Biswal P, Sarma G, Benival D, Kommineni N, Desai D. Genome editing and its role in vaccine, diagnosis, and therapeutic advancement. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 269:131802. [PMID: 38670178 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131802] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Genome editing involves precise modification of specific nucleotides in the genome using nucleases like CRISPR/Cas, ZFN, or TALEN, leading to increased efficiency of homologous recombination (HR) for gene editing, and it can result in gene disruption events via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or homology-driven repair (HDR). Genome editing, particularly CRISPR-Cas9, revolutionizes vaccine development by enabling precise modifications of pathogen genomes, leading to enhanced vaccine efficacy and safety. It allows for tailored antigen optimization, improved vector design, and deeper insights into host genes' impact on vaccine responses, ultimately enhancing vaccine development and manufacturing processes. This review highlights different types of genome editing methods, their associated risks, approaches to overcome the shortcomings, and the diverse roles of genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepanker Bisht
- ICAR- Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar 243122, Bareilly, India
| | - Sagar Salave
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad 382355, Gujarat, India
| | - Nimeet Desai
- Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi 502285, Telangana, India
| | - Purnima Gogoi
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin and Madison, Madison, WI 53726, USA
| | - Dhwani Rana
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad 382355, Gujarat, India
| | - Prachurya Biswal
- College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bihar Animal Sciences University, Kishanganj 855115, Bihar, India
| | - Gautami Sarma
- College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar 263145, U.S. Nagar, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Derajram Benival
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad 382355, Gujarat, India.
| | | | - Dhruv Desai
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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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.
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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.
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Elasbali AM, Al-Soud WA, Anwar S, Alhassan HH, Adnan M, Hassan MI. A review on mechanistic insights into structure and function of dystrophin protein in pathophysiology and therapeutic targeting of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130544. [PMID: 38428778 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130544] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive genetic disorder characterized by progressive and severe muscle weakening and degeneration. Among the various forms of muscular dystrophy, it stands out as one of the most common and impactful, predominantly affecting boys. The condition arises due to mutations in the dystrophin gene, a key player in maintaining the structure and function of muscle fibers. The manuscript explores the structural features of dystrophin protein and their pivotal roles in DMD. We present an in-depth analysis of promising therapeutic approaches targeting dystrophin and their implications for the therapeutic management of DMD. Several therapies aiming to restore dystrophin protein or address secondary pathology have obtained regulatory approval, and many others are ongoing clinical development. Notably, recent advancements in genetic approaches have demonstrated the potential to restore partially functional dystrophin forms. The review also provides a comprehensive overview of the status of clinical trials for major therapeutic genetic approaches for DMD. In addition, we have summarized the ongoing therapeutic approaches and advanced mechanisms of action for dystrophin restoration and the challenges associated with DMD therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelbaset Mohamed Elasbali
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences-Qurayyat, Jouf University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Abu Al-Soud
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Sciences-Sakaka, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia; Molekylärbiologi, Klinisk Mikrobiologi och vårdhygien, Region Skåne, Sölvegatan 23B, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Saleha Anwar
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Hassan H Alhassan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Sciences-Sakaka, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Adnan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India.
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Nouraein S, Lee S, Saenz VA, Del Mundo HC, Yiu J, Szablowski JO. Acoustically targeted noninvasive gene therapy in large brain volumes. Gene Ther 2024; 31:85-94. [PMID: 37696982 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00421-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Focused Ultrasound Blood-Brain Barrier Opening (FUS-BBBO) can deliver adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) to treat genetic disorders of the brain. However, such disorders often affect large brain regions. Moreover, the applicability of FUS-BBBO in the treatment of brain-wide genetic disorders has not yet been evaluated. Herein, we evaluated the transduction efficiency and safety of opening up to 105 sites simultaneously. Increasing the number of targeted sites increased gene delivery efficiency at each site. We achieved transduction of up to 60% of brain cells with comparable efficiency in the majority of the brain regions. Furthermore, gene delivery with FUS-BBBO was safe even when all 105 sites were targeted simultaneously without negative effects on animal weight or neuronal loss. To evaluate the application of multi-site FUS-BBBO for gene therapy, we used it for gene editing using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated 9 (Cas9) system and found effective gene editing, but also a loss of neurons at the targeted sites. Overall, this study provides a brain-wide map of transduction efficiency, shows the synergistic effect of multi-site targeting on transduction efficiency, and is the first example of large brain volume gene editing after noninvasive gene delivery with FUS-BBBO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Nouraein
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Synthetic, Systems, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Sangsin Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Vidal A Saenz
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | | | - Joycelyn Yiu
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jerzy O Szablowski
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Synthetic, Systems, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA.
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA.
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Leal AF, Herreno-Pachón AM, Benincore-Flórez E, Karunathilaka A, Tomatsu S. Current Strategies for Increasing Knock-In Efficiency in CRISPR/Cas9-Based Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2456. [PMID: 38473704 PMCID: PMC10931195 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052456] [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: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Since its discovery in 2012, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system has supposed a promising panorama for developing novel and highly precise genome editing-based gene therapy (GT) alternatives, leading to overcoming the challenges associated with classical GT. Classical GT aims to deliver transgenes to the cells via their random integration in the genome or episomal persistence into the nucleus through lentivirus (LV) or adeno-associated virus (AAV), respectively. Although high transgene expression efficiency is achieved by using either LV or AAV, their nature can result in severe side effects in humans. For instance, an LV (NCT03852498)- and AAV9 (NCT05514249)-based GT clinical trials for treating X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy showed the development of myelodysplastic syndrome and patient's death, respectively. In contrast with classical GT, the CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing requires the homologous direct repair (HDR) machinery of the cells for inserting the transgene in specific regions of the genome. This sophisticated and well-regulated process is limited in the cell cycle of mammalian cells, and in turn, the nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) predominates. Consequently, seeking approaches to increase HDR efficiency over NHEJ is crucial. This manuscript comprehensively reviews the current alternatives for improving the HDR for CRISPR/Cas9-based GTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Felipe Leal
- Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA; (A.F.L.); (A.M.H.-P.); (E.B.-F.); (A.K.)
- Institute for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá 110231, Colombia
| | - Angelica María Herreno-Pachón
- Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA; (A.F.L.); (A.M.H.-P.); (E.B.-F.); (A.K.)
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Eliana Benincore-Flórez
- Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA; (A.F.L.); (A.M.H.-P.); (E.B.-F.); (A.K.)
| | - Amali Karunathilaka
- Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA; (A.F.L.); (A.M.H.-P.); (E.B.-F.); (A.K.)
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Shunji Tomatsu
- Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA; (A.F.L.); (A.M.H.-P.); (E.B.-F.); (A.K.)
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19144, USA
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Kruglova N, Shepelev M. Increasing Gene Editing Efficiency via CRISPR/Cas9- or Cas12a-Mediated Knock-In in Primary Human T Cells. Biomedicines 2024; 12:119. [PMID: 38255224 PMCID: PMC10813735 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
T lymphocytes represent a promising target for genome editing. They are primarily modified to recognize and kill tumor cells or to withstand HIV infection. In most studies, T cell genome editing is performed using the CRISPR/Cas technology. Although this technology is easily programmable and widely accessible, its efficiency of T cell genome editing was initially low. Several crucial improvements were made in the components of the CRISPR/Cas technology and their delivery methods, as well as in the culturing conditions of T cells, before a reasonable editing level suitable for clinical applications was achieved. In this review, we summarize and describe the aforementioned parameters that affect human T cell editing efficiency using the CRISPR/Cas technology, with a special focus on gene knock-in.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kruglova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology RAS, 119334 Moscow, Russia;
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Khoshandam M, Soltaninejad H, Mousazadeh M, Hamidieh AA, Hosseinkhani S. Clinical applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing system: Delivery options and challenges in precision medicine. Genes Dis 2024; 11:268-282. [PMID: 37588217 PMCID: PMC10425811 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.02.027] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 is an effective gene editing tool with broad applications for the prevention or treatment of numerous diseases. It depends on CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) as a bacterial immune system and plays as a gene editing tool. Due to the higher specificity and efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 compared to other editing approaches, it has been broadly investigated to treat numerous hereditary and acquired illnesses, including cancers, hemolytic diseases, immunodeficiency disorders, cardiovascular diseases, visual maladies, neurodegenerative conditions, and a few X-linked disorders. CRISPR/Cas9 system has been used to treat cancers through a variety of approaches, with stable gene editing techniques. Here, the applications and clinical trials of CRISPR/Cas9 in various illnesses are described. Due to its high precision and efficiency, CRISPR/Cas9 strategies may treat gene-related illnesses by deleting, inserting, modifying, or blocking the expression of specific genes. The most challenging barrier to the in vivo use of CRISPR/Cas9 like off-target effects will be discussed. The use of transfection vehicles for CRISPR/Cas9, including viral vectors (such as an Adeno-associated virus (AAV)), and the development of non-viral vectors is also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohadeseh Khoshandam
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Academic Center for Education, Culture, and Research (ACECR), Qom Branch, Qom 3716986466, Iran
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran 14155-6463, Iran
| | - Hossein Soltaninejad
- Faculty of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Pediatric Cell and Gene Therapy Research Center, Gene, Cell & Tissue Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14155-6559, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Mousazadeh
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
| | - Amir Ali Hamidieh
- Pediatric Cell and Gene Therapy Research Center, Gene, Cell & Tissue Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14155-6559, Iran
| | - Saman Hosseinkhani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
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Jiang Y, Li W, Wang Z, Lu J. Lipid-Based Nanotechnology: Liposome. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:34. [PMID: 38258045 PMCID: PMC10820119 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past several decades, liposomes have been extensively developed and used for various clinical applications such as in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and dietetic fields, due to its versatility, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, as well as the ability to enhance the therapeutic index of free drugs. However, some challenges remain unsolved, including liposome premature leakage, manufacturing irreproducibility, and limited translation success. This article reviews various aspects of liposomes, including its advantages, major compositions, and common preparation techniques, and discusses present U.S. FDA-approved, clinical, and preclinical liposomal nanotherapeutics for treating and preventing a variety of human diseases. In addition, we summarize the significance of and challenges in liposome-enabled nanotherapeutic development and hope it provides the fundamental knowledge and concepts about liposomes and their applications and contributions in contemporary pharmaceutical advancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhao Jiang
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Track, Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (Y.J.); (W.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Wenpan Li
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Track, Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (Y.J.); (W.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Zhiren Wang
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Track, Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (Y.J.); (W.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Jianqin Lu
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Track, Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (Y.J.); (W.L.); (Z.W.)
- Clinical and Translational Oncology Program, NCI-Designated University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- BIO5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Southwest Environmental Health Sciences Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
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Pan P, Liu X, Fang M, Yang S, Zhang Y, Li M, Liu Y. Silk Fibroin-Modified Liposome/Gene Editing System Knocks out the PLK1 Gene to Suppress the Growth of Lung Cancer Cells. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2756. [PMID: 38140096 PMCID: PMC10747280 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Polo-like protein kinase 1 (PLK1) plays a key role in lung cancer cell mitosis. The knockout of PLK1 gene by the CRISPR-Cas9 system can effectively inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells, but there is no suitable vector for in vivo delivery. In this study, CRISPR-Cas9 gene knockout plasmids encoding sgRNA, Cas9 and green fluorescent protein were constructed. Then, the plasmids were packaged with liposome (Lip) and cholesterol-modified Antheraea pernyi silk fibroin (CASF) to obtain the CASF/Lip/pDNA ternary complex. The CASF/Lip/pDNA complex was transfected into lung cancer cells A549 to investigate the transfection efficiency, the PLK1 gene knockout effect and the inhibitory effect on lung cancer cells. The results showed that the transfection efficiency of the CASF/Lip/pDNA complex was significantly higher than that of the Lip/pDNA binary complex, and the expression of PLK1 in cells transfected with CASF/Lip/pDNA complexes was significantly lower than that in cells transfected with Lip/pDNA complexes. The CASF/Lip/pDNA complex significantly increased the apoptosis rate and decreased the proliferation activity of lung cancer cells compared with Lip/pDNA complexes. The cytotoxicity of the complexes was evaluated by coculture with the human bronchial epithelial cells BEAS2B. The results showed that CASF/Lip/pDNA complexes exhibited lower cytotoxicity than Lip/pDNA complexes. The fibroin-modified liposome/PLK1 gene knockout system not only effectively inhibited the growth of lung cancer cells but also showed no obvious toxicity to normal cells, showing potential for clinical application in lung cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mingzhong Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (P.P.); (X.L.); (M.F.); (S.Y.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yu Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (P.P.); (X.L.); (M.F.); (S.Y.); (Y.Z.)
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10
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Golubev DS, Komkov DS, Shepelev MV, Mazurov DV, Kruglova NA. Efficient Editing of the CXCR4 Locus Using Cas9 Ribonucleoprotein Complexes Stabilized with Polyglutamic Acid. DOKLADY BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES : PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE USSR, BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES SECTIONS 2023; 513:S28-S32. [PMID: 38190037 DOI: 10.1134/s0012496623700862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Gene editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 system provides new opportunities to treat human diseases. Approaches aimed at increasing the efficiency of genome editing are therefore important to develop. To increase the level of editing of the CXCR4 locus, which is a target for gene therapy of HIV infection, the Cas9 protein was modified by introducing additional NLS signals and ribonucleoprotein complexes of Cas9 and guide RNA were stabilized with poly-L-glutamic acid. The approach allowed a 1.8-fold increase in the level of CXCR4 knockout in the CEM/R5 T cell line and a 2-fold increase in the level of knock-in of the HIV-1 fusion peptide inhibitor MT-C34 in primary CD4+ T lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Golubev
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - D S Komkov
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'erSheva, Israel
| | - M V Shepelev
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - D V Mazurov
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - N A Kruglova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
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11
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Yu S, Zhao R, Zhang B, Lai C, Li L, Shen J, Tan X, Shao J. Research progress and application of the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology based on hepatocellular carcinoma. Asian J Pharm Sci 2023; 18:100828. [PMID: 37583709 PMCID: PMC10424087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2023.100828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is now a common cause of cancer death, with no obvious change in patient survival over the past few years. Although the traditional therapeutic modalities for HCC patients mainly involved in surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, which have achieved admirable achievements, challenges are still existed, such as drug resistance and toxicity. The emerging gene therapy of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9-based (CRISPR/Cas9), as an alternative to traditional treatment methods, has attracted considerable attention for eradicating resistant malignant tumors and regulating multiple crucial events of target gene-editing. Recently, advances in CRISPR/Cas9-based anti-drugs are presented at the intersection of science, such as chemistry, materials science, tumor biology, and genetics. In this review, the principle as well as statues of CRISPR/Cas9 technique were introduced first to show its feasibility. Additionally, the emphasis was placed on the applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in therapeutic HCC. Further, a broad overview of non-viral delivery systems for the CRISPR/Cas9-based anti-drugs in HCC treatment was summarized to delineate their design, action mechanisms, and anticancer applications. Finally, the limitations and prospects of current studies were also discussed, and we hope to provide comprehensively theoretical basis for the designing of anti-drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijing Yu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Ruirui Zhao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Bingchen Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Chunmei Lai
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Linyan Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Jiangwen Shen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Xiarong Tan
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Jingwei Shao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350108, China
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12
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Xue W, Li T, Gu Y, Li S, Xia N. Molecular engineering tools for the development of vaccines against infectious diseases: current status and future directions. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023. [PMID: 37339445 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2227699] [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: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The escalating global changes have fostered conditions for the expansion and transmission of diverse biological factors, leading to the rise of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases. Complex viral infections, such as COVID-19, influenza, HIV, and Ebola, continue to surface, necessitating the development of effective vaccine technologies. AREAS COVERED This review article highlights recent advancements in molecular biology, virology, and genomics that have propelled the design and development of innovative molecular tools. These tools have promoted new vaccine research platforms and directly improved vaccine efficacy. The review summarizes the cutting-edge molecular engineering tools used in creating novel vaccines and explores the rapidly expanding molecular tools landscape and potential directions for future vaccine development. EXPERT OPINION The strategic application of advanced molecular engineering tools can address conventional vaccine limitations, enhance the overall efficacy of vaccine products, promote diversification in vaccine platforms, and form the foundation for future vaccine development. Prioritizing safety considerations of these novel molecular tools during vaccine development is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Life Sciences, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiang an Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen, China
| | - Tingting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Life Sciences, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiang an Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen, China
| | - Ying Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Life Sciences, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiang an Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen, China
| | - Shaowei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Life Sciences, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiang an Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen, China
| | - Ningshao Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Life Sciences, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiang an Biomedicine Laboratory, Xiamen, China
- The Research Unit of Frontier Technology of Structural Vaccinology of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Xiamen, China
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13
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Tasca F, Brescia M, Liu J, Janssen JM, Mamchaoui K, Gonçalves MA. High-capacity adenovector delivery of forced CRISPR-Cas9 heterodimers fosters precise chromosomal deletions in human cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 31:746-762. [PMID: 36937620 PMCID: PMC10020486 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Genome editing based on dual CRISPR-Cas9 complexes (multiplexes) permits removing specific genomic sequences in living cells leveraging research on functional genomics and genetic therapies. Delivering the required large and multicomponent reagents in a synchronous and stoichiometric manner remains, however, challenging. Moreover, uncoordinated activity of independently acting CRISPR-Cas9 multiplexes increases the complexity of genome editing outcomes. Here, we investigate the potential of fostering precise multiplexing genome editing using high-capacity adenovector particles (AdVPs) for the delivery of Cas9 ortholog fusion constructs alone (forced Cas9 heterodimers) or together with their cognate guide RNAs (forced CRISPR-Cas9 heterodimers). We demonstrate that the efficiency and accuracy of targeted chromosomal DNA deletions achieved by single AdVPs encoding forced CRISPR-Cas9 heterodimers is superior to that obtained when the various components are delivered separately. Finally, all-in-one AdVP delivery of forced CRISPR-Cas9 heterodimers triggers robust DMD exon 51 splice site excision resulting in reading frame restoration and selection-free detection of dystrophin in muscle cells derived from Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. In conclusion, AdVPs promote precise multiplexing genome editing through the integrated delivery of forced CRISPR-Cas9 heterodimer components, which, in comparison with split conventional CRISPR-Cas9 multiplexes, engage target sequences in a more coordinated fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Tasca
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marcella Brescia
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Josephine M. Janssen
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Kamel Mamchaoui
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Paris, France
| | - Manuel A.F.V. Gonçalves
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
- Corresponding author: Manuel A.F.V. Gonçalves, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands.
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14
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Padmaswari MH, Agrawal S, Jia MS, Ivy A, Maxenberger DA, Burcham LA, Nelson CE. Delivery challenges for CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2023; 4:011307. [PMID: 36864908 PMCID: PMC9969352 DOI: 10.1063/5.0131452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Duchene muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked neuromuscular disorder that affects about one in every 5000 live male births. DMD is caused by mutations in the gene that codes for dystrophin, which is required for muscle membrane stabilization. The loss of functional dystrophin causes muscle degradation that leads to weakness, loss of ambulation, cardiac and respiratory complications, and eventually, premature death. Therapies to treat DMD have advanced in the past decade, with treatments in clinical trials and four exon-skipping drugs receiving conditional Food and Drug Administration approval. However, to date, no treatment has provided long-term correction. Gene editing has emerged as a promising approach to treating DMD. There is a wide range of tools, including meganucleases, zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and, most notably, RNA-guided enzymes from the bacterial adaptive immune system clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR). Although challenges in using CRISPR for gene therapy in humans still abound, including safety and efficiency of delivery, the future for CRISPR gene editing for DMD is promising. This review will summarize the progress in CRISPR gene editing for DMD including key summaries of current approaches, delivery methodologies, and the challenges that gene editing still faces as well as prospective solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shilpi Agrawal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, USA
| | - Mary S. Jia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, USA
| | - Allie Ivy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, USA
| | - Daniel A. Maxenberger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, USA
| | - Landon A. Burcham
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, USA
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15
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Yang J, Luly KM, Green JJ. Nonviral nanoparticle gene delivery into the CNS for neurological disorders and brain cancer applications. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1853. [PMID: 36193561 PMCID: PMC10023321 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Nonviral nanoparticles have emerged as an attractive alternative to viral vectors for gene therapy applications, utilizing a range of lipid-based, polymeric, and inorganic materials. These materials can either encapsulate or be functionalized to bind nucleic acids and protect them from degradation. To effectively elicit changes to gene expression, the nanoparticle carrier needs to undergo a series of steps intracellularly, from interacting with the cellular membrane to facilitate cellular uptake to endosomal escape and nucleic acid release. Adjusting physiochemical properties of the nanoparticles, such as size, charge, and targeting ligands, can improve cellular uptake and ultimately gene delivery. Applications in the central nervous system (CNS; i.e., neurological diseases, brain cancers) face further extracellular barriers for a gene-carrying nanoparticle to surpass, with the most significant being the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Approaches to overcome these extracellular challenges to deliver nanoparticles into the CNS include systemic, intracerebroventricular, intrathecal, and intranasal administration. This review describes and compares different biomaterials for nonviral nanoparticle-mediated gene therapy to the CNS and explores challenges and recent preclinical and clinical developments in overcoming barriers to nanoparticle-mediated delivery to the brain. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Yang
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kathryn M Luly
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jordan J Green
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Ophthalmology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Materials Science & Engineering, and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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16
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Gaykema LH, van Nieuwland RY, Dekkers MC, van Essen MF, Heidt S, Zaldumbide A, van den Berg CW, Rabelink TJ, van Kooten C. Inhibition of complement activation by CD55 overexpression in human induced pluripotent stem cell derived kidney organoids. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1058763. [PMID: 36713440 PMCID: PMC9880527 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1058763] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
End stage renal disease is an increasing problem worldwide driven by aging of the population and increased prevalence of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease. Currently, kidney transplantation is the only curative option, but donor organ shortages greatly limit its application. Regenerative medicine has the potential to solve the shortage by using stem cells to grow the desired tissues, like kidney tissue. Immune rejection poses a great threat towards the implementation of stem cell derived tissues and various strategies have been explored to limit the immune response towards these tissues. However, these studies are limited by targeting mainly T cell mediated immune rejection while the rejection process also involves innate and humoral immunity. In this study we investigate whether inhibition of the complement system in human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) could provide protection from such immune injury. To this end we created knock-in iPSC lines of the membrane bound complement inhibitor CD55 to create a transplant-specific protection towards complement activation. CD55 inhibits the central driver of the complement cascade, C3 convertase, and we show that overexpression is able to decrease complement activation on both iPSCs as well as differentiated kidney organoids upon stimulation with anti-HLA antibodies to mimic the mechanism of humoral rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lonneke H. Gaykema
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands,Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Rianne Y. van Nieuwland
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Mette C. Dekkers
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Mieke F. van Essen
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Heidt
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands,Eurotransplant Reference Laboratory, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Arnaud Zaldumbide
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Cathelijne W. van den Berg
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Ton J. Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Ton J. Rabelink,
| | - Cees van Kooten
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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17
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Shahbazi R, Lipson P, Gottimukkala KSV, Lane DD, Adair JE. CRISPR Gene Editing of Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2567:39-62. [PMID: 36255694 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2679-5_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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Genetic editing of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells can be employed to understand gene-function relationships underlying hematopoietic cell biology, leading to new therapeutic approaches to treat disease. The ability to collect, purify, and manipulate primary cells outside the body permits testing of many different gene editing approaches. RNA-guided nucleases, such as CRISPR, have revolutionized gene editing based simply on Watson-Crick base-pairing, employed to direct activity to specific genomic loci. Given the ease and affordability of synthetic, custom RNA guides, testing of precision edits or large random pools in high-throughput screening studies is now widely available. With the ever-growing number of CRISPR nucleases being discovered or engineered, researchers now have a plethora of options for directed genomic change, including single base edits, nicks or double-stranded DNA cuts with blunt or staggered ends, as well as the ability to target CRISPR to other cellular oligonucleotides such as RNA or mitochondrial DNA. Except for single base editing strategies, precise rewriting of larger segments of the genetic code requires delivery of an additional component, templated DNA oligonucleotide(s) encoding the desired changes flanked by homologous sequences that permit recombination at or near the site of CRISPR activity. Altogether, the ever-growing CRISPR gene editing toolkit is an invaluable resource. This chapter outlines available technologies and the strategies for applying CRISPR-based editing in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jennifer E Adair
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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18
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Gao J, Liu H, Zhang Z, Liang Z. Establishment, optimization, and application of genetic technology in Aspergillus spp. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1141869. [PMID: 37025635 PMCID: PMC10071863 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1141869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus is widely distributed in nature and occupies a crucial ecological niche, which has complex and diverse metabolic pathways and can produce a variety of metabolites. With the deepening of genomics exploration, more Aspergillus genomic informations have been elucidated, which not only help us understand the basic mechanism of various life activities, but also further realize the ideal functional transformation. Available genetic engineering tools include homologous recombinant systems, specific nuclease based systems, and RNA techniques, combined with transformation methods, and screening based on selective labeling. Precise editing of target genes can not only prevent and control the production of mycotoxin pollutants, but also realize the construction of economical and efficient fungal cell factories. This paper reviewed the establishment and optimization process of genome technologies, hoping to provide the theoretical basis of experiments, and summarized the recent progress and application in genetic technology, analyzes the challenges and the possibility of future development with regard to Aspergillus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Huiqing Liu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihong Liang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- The Supervision, Inspection and Testing Center of Genetically Modified Organisms, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, China
- Beijing Laboratory for Food Quality and Safety, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhihong Liang,
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19
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Shiroshita K, Kobayashi H, Watanuki S, Karigane D, Sorimachi Y, Fujita S, Tamaki S, Haraguchi M, Itokawa N, Aoyoama K, Koide S, Masamoto Y, Kobayashi K, Nakamura-Ishizu A, Kurokawa M, Iwama A, Okamoto S, Kataoka K, Takubo K. A culture platform to study quiescent hematopoietic stem cells following genome editing. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100354. [PMID: 36590688 PMCID: PMC9795334 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Other than genetically engineered mice, few reliable platforms are available for the study of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) quiescence. Here we present a platform to analyze HSC cell cycle quiescence by combining culture conditions that maintain quiescence with a CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system optimized for HSCs. We demonstrate that preculture of HSCs enhances editing efficiency by facilitating nuclear transport of ribonucleoprotein complexes. For post-editing culture, mouse and human HSCs edited based on non-homologous end joining and cultured under low-cytokine, low-oxygen, and high-albumin conditions retain their phenotypes and quiescence better than those cultured under the proliferative conditions. Using this approach, HSCs regain quiescence even after editing by homology-directed repair. Our results show that low-cytokine culture conditions for gene-edited HSCs are a useful approach for investigating HSC quiescence ex vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Shiroshita
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
| | - Shintaro Watanuki
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Daiki Karigane
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yuriko Sorimachi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
| | - Shinya Fujita
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shinpei Tamaki
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
| | - Miho Haraguchi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
| | - Naoki Itokawa
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Aoyoama
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Shuhei Koide
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Yosuke Masamoto
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Ayako Nakamura-Ishizu
- Department of Microscopic and Developmental Anatomy, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Mineo Kurokawa
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Atsushi Iwama
- Division of Stem Cell and Molecular Medicine, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Okamoto
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kataoka
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Division of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
| | - Keiyo Takubo
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
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20
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Karasev MM, Baloban M, Verkhusha VV, Shcherbakova DM. Nuclear Localization Signals for Optimization of Genetically Encoded Tools in Neurons. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:931237. [PMID: 35927988 PMCID: PMC9344056 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.931237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear transport in neurons differs from that in non-neuronal cells. Here we developed a non-opsin optogenetic tool (OT) for the nuclear export of a protein of interest induced by near-infrared (NIR) light. In darkness, nuclear import reverses the OT action. We used this tool for comparative analysis of nuclear transport dynamics mediated by nuclear localization signals (NLSs) with different importin specificities. We found that widely used KPNA2-binding NLSs, such as Myc and SV40, are suboptimal in neurons. We identified uncommon NLSs mediating fast nuclear import and demonstrated that the performance of the OT for nuclear export can be adjusted by varying NLSs. Using these NLSs, we optimized the NIR OT for light-controlled gene expression for lower background and higher contrast in neurons. The selected NLSs binding importins abundant in neurons could improve performance of genetically encoded tools in these cells, including OTs and gene-editing tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maksim M. Karasev
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mikhail Baloban
- Department of Genetics and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Vladislav V. Verkhusha
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Genetics and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Daria M. Shcherbakova
- Department of Genetics and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
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21
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Tasca F, Brescia M, Wang Q, Liu J, Janssen JM, Szuhai K, Gonçalves MAFV. Large-scale genome editing based on high-capacity adenovectors and CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases rescues full-length dystrophin synthesis in DMD muscle cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:7761-7782. [PMID: 35776127 PMCID: PMC9303392 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted chromosomal insertion of large genetic payloads in human cells leverages and broadens synthetic biology and genetic therapy efforts. Yet, obtaining large-scale gene knock-ins remains particularly challenging especially in hard-to-transfect stem and progenitor cells. Here, fully viral gene-deleted adenovector particles (AdVPs) are investigated as sources of optimized high-specificity CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases and donor DNA constructs tailored for targeted insertion of full-length dystrophin expression units (up to 14.8-kb) through homologous recombination (HR) or homology-mediated end joining (HMEJ). In muscle progenitor cells, donors prone to HMEJ yielded higher CRISPR-Cas9-dependent genome editing frequencies than HR donors, with values ranging between 6% and 34%. In contrast, AdVP transduction of HR and HMEJ substrates in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) resulted in similar CRISPR-Cas9-dependent genome editing levels. Notably, when compared to regular iPSCs, in p53 knockdown iPSCs, CRISPR-Cas9-dependent genome editing frequencies increased up to 6.7-fold specifically when transducing HMEJ donor constructs. Finally, single DNA molecule analysis by molecular combing confirmed that AdVP-based genome editing achieves long-term complementation of DMD-causing mutations through the site-specific insertion of full-length dystrophin expression units. In conclusion, AdVPs are a robust and flexible platform for installing large genomic edits in human cells and p53 inhibition fosters HMEJ-based genome editing in iPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Tasca
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marcella Brescia
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Josephine M Janssen
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karoly Szuhai
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Manuel A F V Gonçalves
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC, Leiden, The Netherlands
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22
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Li Z, Zhang L, Jiang K, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Hu G, Song J. Biosafety assessment of delivery systems for clinical nucleic acid therapeutics. BIOSAFETY AND HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bsheal.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Systematic Investigation of the Effects of Multiple SV40 Nuclear Localization Signal Fusion on the Genome Editing Activity of Purified SpCas9. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9020083. [PMID: 35200436 PMCID: PMC8869684 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9020083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of CRISPR-Cas9 technology has revolutionized both basic and translational biomedical research. For Cas9 nuclease to exert genome editing activity, nuclear localization signal (NLS) derived from simian virus 40 (SV40) T antigen is commonly installed as genetic fusion to direct the intracellular Cas9 proteins to the nucleus of cells. Notably, previous studies have shown that multiple SV40 NLS fusion can improve the targeting activity of Cas9-derived genome-editing and base-editing tools. In addition, the multi-NLS fusion can increase the intracellular activity of Cas9 in the forms of both constitutive expression and directly delivered Cas9-guide RNA ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex. However, the relationship between NLS fusion and intracellular Cas9 activity has not been fully understood, including the dependency of activity on the number or organization of NLS fusion. In the present study, we constructed and purified a set of Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) variants containing one to four NLS repeats at the N- or C-terminus of the proteins and systematically analyzed the effects of multi-NLS fusion on the activity of SpCas9 RNPs. It was found that multi-NLS fusion could improve the intracellular activity as lipofected or nucleofected Cas9 RNPs. Importantly, multi-NLS fusion could enhance the genome-editing activity of SpCas9 RNPs in primary and stem/progenitor cells and mouse embryos.
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Wang SW, Gao C, Zheng YM, Yi L, Lu JC, Huang XY, Cai JB, Zhang PF, Cui YH, Ke AW. Current applications and future perspective of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in cancer. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:57. [PMID: 35189910 PMCID: PMC8862238 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01518-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system provides adaptive immunity against plasmids and phages in prokaryotes. This system inspires the development of a powerful genome engineering tool, the CRISPR/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) genome editing system. Due to its high efficiency and precision, the CRISPR/Cas9 technique has been employed to explore the functions of cancer-related genes, establish tumor-bearing animal models and probe drug targets, vastly increasing our understanding of cancer genomics. Here, we review current status of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology in oncological research. We first explain the basic principles of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and introduce several new CRISPR-based gene editing modes. We next detail the rapid progress of CRISPR screening in revealing tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance mechanisms. In addition, we introduce CRISPR/Cas9 system delivery vectors and finally demonstrate the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 engineering to enhance the effect of adoptive T cell therapy (ACT) and reduce adverse reactions.
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25
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Erkut E, Yokota T. CRISPR Therapeutics for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031832. [PMID: 35163754 PMCID: PMC8836469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive neuromuscular disorder with a prevalence of approximately 1 in 3500–5000 males. DMD manifests as childhood-onset muscle degeneration, followed by loss of ambulation, cardiomyopathy, and death in early adulthood due to a lack of functional dystrophin protein. Out-of-frame mutations in the dystrophin gene are the most common underlying cause of DMD. Gene editing via the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system is a promising therapeutic for DMD, as it can permanently correct DMD mutations and thus restore the reading frame, allowing for the production of functional dystrophin. The specific mechanism of gene editing can vary based on a variety of factors such as the number of cuts generated by CRISPR, the presence of an exogenous DNA template, or the current cell cycle stage. CRISPR-mediated gene editing for DMD has been tested both in vitro and in vivo, with many of these studies discussed herein. Additionally, novel modifications to the CRISPR system such as base or prime editors allow for more precise gene editing. Despite recent advances, limitations remain including delivery efficiency, off-target mutagenesis, and long-term maintenance of dystrophin. Further studies focusing on safety and accuracy of the CRISPR system are necessary prior to clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Erkut
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 8613-114 Street, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada;
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 8613-114 Street, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada;
- The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research Chair, 8613-114 Street, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1(780)-492-1102
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Taha EA, Lee J, Hotta A. Delivery of CRISPR-Cas tools for in vivo genome editing therapy: Trends and challenges. J Control Release 2022; 342:345-361. [PMID: 35026352 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) genome editing technology opened the door to provide a versatile approach for treating multiple diseases. Promising results have been shown in numerous pre-clinical studies and clinical trials. However, a safe and effective method to deliver genome-editing components is still a key challenge for in vivo genome editing therapy. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is one of the most commonly used vector systems to date, but immunogenicity against capsid, liver toxicity at high dose, and potential genotoxicity caused by off-target mutagenesis and genomic integration remain unsolved. Recently developed transient delivery systems, such as virus-like particle (VLP) and lipid nanoparticle (LNP), may solve some of the issues. This review summarizes existing in vivo delivery systems and possible solutions to overcome their limitations. Also, we highlight the ongoing clinical trials for in vivo genome editing therapy and recently developed genome editing tools for their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman A Taha
- Center for iPS cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Department of Biochemistry, Ain Shams University Faculty of Science, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Joseph Lee
- Center for iPS cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Akitsu Hotta
- Center for iPS cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Takeda-CiRA Joint Program (T-CiRA), Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan.
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Yan J, Kang DD, Turnbull G, Dong Y. Delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 system for screening and editing RNA binding proteins in cancer. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 180:114042. [PMID: 34767864 PMCID: PMC8724402 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play an important role in RNA metabolism, regulating the stability, localization, and functional dynamics of RNAs. Alternation in the RBP-RNA network has profound implications in cellular physiology, and is related to the development and spread of cancer in certain cases. To regulate the expression of specific genes and their biological activities, various strategies have been applied to target RBPs for cancer treatments, including small-molecule inhibitors, small-interfering RNA, peptides, and aptamers. Recently, the deployment of the CRISPR-Cas9 technology has provided a new platform for RBP screening and regulation. This review summarizes the delivery systems of the CRISPR-Cas9 system and their role in RBP-based cancer therapeutics, including identification of novel RBPs and regulation of cancer-associated RBPs. The efficient delivery of the CRISPR-Cas9 system is important to the profound understanding and clinical transition of RBPs as cancer therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyue Yan
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Diana D. Kang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Gillian Turnbull
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States,Department of Biomedical Engineering; The Center for Clinical and Translational Science; The Comprehensive Cancer Center; Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute; Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
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28
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Himič V, Davies KE. Evaluating the potential of novel genetic approaches for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 29:1369-1376. [PMID: 33564172 PMCID: PMC8440545 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00811-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked progressive muscle-wasting disorder that is caused by a lack of functional dystrophin, a cytoplasmic protein necessary for the structural integrity of muscle. As variants in the dystrophin gene lead to a disruption of the reading frame, pharmacological treatments have only limited efficacy; there is currently no effective therapy and consequently, a significant unmet clinical need for DMD. Recently, novel genetic approaches have shown real promise in treating DMD, with advancements in the efficacy and tropism of exon skipping and surrogate gene therapy. CRISPR-Cas9 has the potential to be a 'one-hit' curative treatment in the coming decade. The current limitations of gene editing, such as off-target effects and immunogenicity, are in fact partly constraints of the delivery method itself, and thus research focus has shifted to improving the viral vector. In order to halt the loss of ambulation, early diagnosis and treatment will be pivotal. In an era where genetic sequencing is increasingly utilised in the clinic, genetic therapies will play a progressively central role in DMD therapy. This review delineates the relative merits of cutting-edge genetic approaches, as well as the challenges that still need to be overcome before they become clinically viable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vratko Himič
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kay E Davies
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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29
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Yang B, Song BP, Shankar S, Guller A, Deng W. Recent advances in liposome formulations for breast cancer therapeutics. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5225-5243. [PMID: 33974093 PMCID: PMC11071878 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03850-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Among many nanoparticle-based delivery platforms, liposomes have been particularly successful with many formulations passed into clinical applications. They are well-established and effective gene and/or drug delivery systems, widely used in cancer therapy including breast cancer. In this review we discuss liposome design with the targeting feature and triggering functions. We also summarise the recent progress (since 2014) in liposome-based therapeutics for breast cancer including chemotherapy and gene therapy. We finally identify some challenges on the liposome technology development for the future clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biyao Yang
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Bo-Ping Song
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- School of Mechatronic Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Shaina Shankar
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Anna Guller
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Wei Deng
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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Barazesh M, Mohammadi S, Bahrami Y, Mokarram P, Morowvat MH, Saidijam M, Karimipoor M, Kavousipour S, Vosoughi AR, Khanaki K. CRISPR/Cas9 Technology as a Modern Genetic Manipulation Tool for Recapitulating of Neurodegenerative Disorders in Large Animal Models. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 21:130-148. [PMID: 33319680 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220666201214115024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodegenerative diseases are often the consequence of alterations in structures and functions of the Central Nervous System (CNS) in patients. Despite obtaining massive genomic information concerning the molecular basis of these diseases and since the neurological disorders are multifactorial, causal connections between pathological pathways at the molecular level and CNS disorders development have remained obscure and need to be elucidated to a great extent. OBJECTIVE Animal models serve as accessible and valuable tools for understanding and discovering the roles of causative factors in the development of neurodegenerative disorders and finding appropriate treatments. Contrary to rodents and other small animals, large animals, especially non-human primates (NHPs), are remarkably similar to humans; hence, they establish suitable models for recapitulating the main human's neuropathological manifestations that may not be seen in rodent models. In addition, they serve as useful models to discover effective therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative disorders due to their similarity to humans in terms of physiology, evolutionary distance, anatomy, and behavior. METHODS In this review, we recommend different strategies based on the CRISPR-Cas9 system for generating animal models of human neurodegenerative disorders and explaining in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 delivery procedures that are applied to disease models for therapeutic purposes. RESULTS With the emergence of CRISPR/Cas9 as a modern specific gene-editing technology in the field of genetic engineering, genetic modification procedures such as gene knock-in and knock-out have become increasingly easier compared to traditional gene targeting techniques. Unlike the old techniques, this versatile technology can efficiently generate transgenic large animal models without the need to complicate lab instruments. Hence, these animals can accurately replicate the signs of neurodegenerative disorders. CONCLUSION Preclinical applications of CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology supply a unique opportunity to establish animal models of neurodegenerative disorders with high accuracy and facilitate perspectives for breakthroughs in the research on the nervous system disease therapy and drug discovery. Furthermore, the useful outcomes of CRISPR applications in various clinical phases are hopeful for their translation to the clinic in a short time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Barazesh
- School of Paramedical, Gerash University of Medical Sciences, Gerash, Iran
| | - Shiva Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khoram Abad, Iran
| | - Yadollah Bahrami
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Pooneh Mokarram
- Autophagy Research center, Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Massoud Saidijam
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Morteza Karimipoor
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soudabeh Kavousipour
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Vosoughi
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Korosh Khanaki
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Paramedicine Faculty, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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Grützner R, Martin P, Horn C, Mortensen S, Cram EJ, Lee-Parsons CW, Stuttmann J, Marillonnet S. High-efficiency genome editing in plants mediated by a Cas9 gene containing multiple introns. PLANT COMMUNICATIONS 2021; 2:100135. [PMID: 33898975 PMCID: PMC8060730 DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2020.100135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The recent discovery of the mode of action of the CRISPR/Cas9 system has provided biologists with a useful tool for generating site-specific mutations in genes of interest. In plants, site-targeted mutations are usually obtained by the stable transformation of a Cas9 expression construct into the plant genome. The efficiency of introducing mutations in genes of interest can vary considerably depending on the specific features of the constructs, including the source and nature of the promoters and terminators used for the expression of the Cas9 gene and the guide RNA, and the sequence of the Cas9 nuclease itself. To optimize the efficiency of the Cas9 nuclease in generating mutations in target genes in Arabidopsis thaliana, we investigated several features of its nucleotide and/or amino acid sequence, including the codon usage, the number of nuclear localization signals (NLSs), and the presence or absence of introns. We found that the Cas9 gene codon usage had some effect on its activity and that two NLSs worked better than one. However, the highest efficiency of the constructs was achieved by the addition of 13 introns into the Cas9 coding sequence, which dramatically improved the editing efficiency of the constructs. None of the primary transformants obtained with a Cas9 gene lacking introns displayed a knockout mutant phenotype, whereas between 70% and 100% of the primary transformants generated with the intronized Cas9 gene displayed mutant phenotypes. The intronized Cas9 gene was also found to be effective in other plants such as Nicotiana benthamiana and Catharanthus roseus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Grützner
- Department of Cell and Metabolic Biology, Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Patrick Martin
- Institute for Biology, Department of Plant Genetics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Weinbergweg 10, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Claudia Horn
- Department of Cell and Metabolic Biology, Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | - Erin J. Cram
- Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carolyn W.T. Lee-Parsons
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Johannes Stuttmann
- Institute for Biology, Department of Plant Genetics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Weinbergweg 10, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Sylvestre Marillonnet
- Department of Cell and Metabolic Biology, Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
- Corresponding author
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Zittersteijn HA, Harteveld CL, Klaver-Flores S, Lankester AC, Hoeben RC, Staal FJT, Gonçalves MAFV. A Small Key for a Heavy Door: Genetic Therapies for the Treatment of Hemoglobinopathies. Front Genome Ed 2021; 2:617780. [PMID: 34713239 PMCID: PMC8525365 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2020.617780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Throughout the past decades, the search for a treatment for severe hemoglobinopathies has gained increased interest within the scientific community. The discovery that ɤ-globin expression from intact HBG alleles complements defective HBB alleles underlying β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease, has provided a promising opening for research directed at relieving ɤ-globin repression mechanisms and, thereby, improve clinical outcomes for patients. Various gene editing strategies aim to reverse the fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch to up-regulate ɤ-globin expression through disabling either HBG repressor genes or repressor binding sites in the HBG promoter regions. In addition to these HBB mutation-independent strategies involving fetal hemoglobin (HbF) synthesis de-repression, the expanding genome editing toolkit is providing increased accuracy to HBB mutation-specific strategies encompassing adult hemoglobin (HbA) restoration for a personalized treatment of hemoglobinopathies. Moreover, besides genome editing, more conventional gene addition strategies continue under investigation to restore HbA expression. Together, this research makes hemoglobinopathies a fertile ground for testing various innovative genetic therapies with high translational potential. Indeed, the progressive understanding of the molecular clockwork underlying the hemoglobin switch together with the ongoing optimization of genome editing tools heightens the prospect for the development of effective and safe treatments for hemoglobinopathies. In this context, clinical genetics plays an equally crucial role by shedding light on the complexity of the disease and the role of ameliorating genetic modifiers. Here, we cover the most recent insights on the molecular mechanisms underlying hemoglobin biology and hemoglobinopathies while providing an overview of state-of-the-art gene editing platforms. Additionally, current genetic therapies under development, are equally discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidde A. Zittersteijn
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Cornelis L. Harteveld
- Department of Human and Clinical Genetics, The Hemoglobinopathies Laboratory, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Arjan C. Lankester
- Department of Pediatrics, Stem Cell Transplantation Program, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Rob C. Hoeben
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Frank J. T. Staal
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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Aslesh T, Erkut E, Yokota T. Restoration of dystrophin expression and correction of Duchenne muscular dystrophy by genome editing. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 21:1049-1061. [PMID: 33401973 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2021.1872539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive neuromuscular disorder that affects approximately one in 3500-5000 male births. Patients experience muscle degeneration, loss of ambulation, and eventual death from cardiac or respiratory failure in early adulthood due to a lack of functional dystrophin protein, which is required to maintain the integrity of muscle cell membranes. Out-of-frame mutations in the DMD gene generally lead to no dystrophin protein expression and a more severe phenotype (DMD). Conversely, in-frame mutations are often associated with milder Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) with a truncated dystrophin expression.Areas covered: Genome editing via the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system can induce permanent corrections of the DMD gene, thus becoming an increasingly popular potential therapeutic method. In this review, we outline recent developments in CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing for the correction of DMD, both in vitro and in vivo, as well as novel delivery methods.Expert opinion: Despite recent advances, many limitations to CRISPR/Cas9 therapy are still prevalent such as off-target editing and immunogenicity. Specifically, for DMD, intervention time and efficient delivery to cardiac and skeletal muscles also present inherent challenges. Research needs to focus on the therapeutic safety and efficacy of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejal Aslesh
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Esra Erkut
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research Chair, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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34
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Wang Q, Liu J, Janssen JM, Le Bouteiller M, Frock RL, Gonçalves MAFV. Precise and broad scope genome editing based on high-specificity Cas9 nickases. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:1173-1198. [PMID: 33398349 PMCID: PMC7826261 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-guided nucleases (RGNs) based on CRISPR systems permit installing short and large edits within eukaryotic genomes. However, precise genome editing is often hindered due to nuclease off-target activities and the multiple-copy character of the vast majority of chromosomal sequences. Dual nicking RGNs and high-specificity RGNs both exhibit low off-target activities. Here, we report that high-specificity Cas9 nucleases are convertible into nicking Cas9D10A variants whose precision is superior to that of the commonly used Cas9D10A nickase. Dual nicking RGNs based on a selected group of these Cas9D10A variants can yield gene knockouts and gene knock-ins at frequencies similar to or higher than those achieved by their conventional counterparts. Moreover, high-specificity dual nicking RGNs are capable of distinguishing highly similar sequences by 'tiptoeing' over pre-existing single base-pair polymorphisms. Finally, high-specificity RNA-guided nicking complexes generally preserve genomic integrity, as demonstrated by unbiased genome-wide high-throughput sequencing assays. Thus, in addition to substantially enlarging the Cas9 nickase toolkit, we demonstrate the feasibility in expanding the range and precision of DNA knockout and knock-in procedures. The herein introduced tools and multi-tier high-specificity genome editing strategies might be particularly beneficial whenever predictability and/or safety of genetic manipulations are paramount.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Josephine M Janssen
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marie Le Bouteiller
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation and Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 269 Campus Dr. Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Richard L Frock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Radiation and Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 269 Campus Dr. Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Manuel A F V Gonçalves
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
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Kerek EM, Cromwell CR, Hubbard BP. Identification of Drug Resistance Genes Using a Pooled Lentiviral CRISPR/Cas9 Screening Approach. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2381:227-242. [PMID: 34590280 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1740-3_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In addition to advancing the development of gene-editing therapeutics, CRISPR/Cas9 is transforming how functional genetic studies are carried out in the lab. By increasing the ease with which genetic information can be inserted, deleted, or edited in cell and organism models, it facilitates genotype-phenotype analysis. Moreover, CRISPR/Cas9 has revolutionized the speed at which new genes underlying a particular phenotype can be identified through its application in genomic screens. Arrayed high-throughput and pooled lentiviral-based CRISPR/Cas9 screens have now been used in a wide variety of contexts, including the identification of essential genes, genes involved in cancer metastasis and tumor growth, and even genes involved in viral response. This technology has also been successfully used to identify drug targets and drug resistance mechanisms. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for performing a genome-wide pooled lentiviral CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screen to identify genetic modulators of a small-molecule drug. While we exemplify how to identify genes involved in resistance to a cytotoxic histone deacetylase inhibitor, Trichostatin A (TSA), the workflow we present can easily be adapted to different types of selections and other types of exogenous ligands or drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M Kerek
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Basil P Hubbard
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Porto EM, Komor AC, Slaymaker IM, Yeo GW. Base editing: advances and therapeutic opportunities. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2020; 19:839-859. [PMID: 33077937 PMCID: PMC7721651 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-020-0084-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Base editing - the introduction of single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) into DNA or RNA in living cells - is one of the most recent advances in the field of genome editing. As around half of known pathogenic genetic variants are due to SNVs, base editing holds great potential for the treatment of numerous genetic diseases, through either temporary RNA or permanent DNA base alterations. Recent advances in the specificity, efficiency, precision and delivery of DNA and RNA base editors are revealing exciting therapeutic opportunities for these technologies. We expect the correction of single point mutations will be a major focus of future precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Porto
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexis C Komor
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Ian M Slaymaker
- Synthetic Biology Department, Beam Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gene W Yeo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Biomedical Sciences and Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Graduate Programs, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Xue VW, Wong SCC, Cho WCS. Genome-wide CRISPR screens for the identification of therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:1147-1158. [PMID: 32893711 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1820986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exploring the function of every gene is a challenging task. There is a paradigm shift of RNA interference with the introduction of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-based genome-wide screening. CRISPR-based screening can detect the loss-of-function and gain-of-function targets. Many DNA-binding proteins are engineered as effective tools for modulating gene expression and for investigating therapeutic targets for a spectrum of diseases. Among them, CRISPR-Cas9 has received extensive attention with its potential for screening cancer treatment targets. AREAS COVERED This article reviews CRISPR toolkit and its applications in screening cancer therapeutic targets, especially genome-wide screens using different CRISPR-Cas9 systems. We compare and summarize the characteristics of CRISPR systems, which would be helpful for understanding and optimizing current CRISPR toolkits, as well as reflecting on the potential future development and clinical applications of CRISPR screens. EXPERT OPINION The application of CRISPR-based therapeutic target screening is broadly used in cancer drug development. Its application in cancer immunotherapy and precision oncology is blooming. Nevertheless, more effective methods of Cas protein delivery and the development of more accurate and efficient genome-editing tools are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Weiwen Xue
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong, China
| | - Sze Chuen Cesar Wong
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong, China
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Brescia M, Janssen JM, Liu J, Gonçalves MAFV. High-Capacity Adenoviral Vectors Permit Robust and Versatile Testing of DMD Gene Repair Tools and Strategies in Human Cells. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040869. [PMID: 32252479 PMCID: PMC7226760 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal X-linked muscle wasting disorder arising from mutations in the ~2.4 Mb dystrophin-encoding DMD gene. RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas9 nucleases (RGNs) are opening new DMD therapeutic routes whose bottlenecks include delivering sizable RGN complexes for assessing their effects on human genomes and testing ex vivo and in vivo DMD-correcting strategies. Here, high-capacity adenoviral vectors (HC-AdVs) encoding single or dual high-specificity RGNs with optimized components were investigated for permanently repairing defective DMD alleles either through exon 51-targeted indel formation or major mutational hotspot excision (>500 kb), respectively. Firstly, we establish that, at high doses, third-generation HC-AdVs lacking all viral genes are significantly less cytotoxic than second-generation adenoviral vectors deleted in E1 and E2A. Secondly, we demonstrate that genetically retargeted HC-AdVs can correct up to 42% ± 13% of defective DMD alleles in muscle cell populations through targeted removal of the major mutational hotspot, in which over 60% of frame-shifting large deletions locate. Both DMD gene repair strategies tested readily led to the detection of Becker-like dystrophins in unselected muscle cell populations, leading to the restoration of β-dystroglycan at the plasmalemma of differentiated muscle cells. Hence, HC-AdVs permit the effective assessment of DMD gene-editing tools and strategies in dystrophin-defective human cells while broadening the gamut of DMD-correcting agents.
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