1
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Moraes CT. Tools for editing the mammalian mitochondrial genome. Hum Mol Genet 2024; 33:R92-R99. [PMID: 38779768 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddae037] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The manipulation of animal mitochondrial genomes has long been a challenge due to the lack of an effective transformation method. With the discovery of specific gene editing enzymes, designed to target pathogenic mitochondrial DNA mutations (often heteroplasmic), the selective removal or modification of mutant variants has become a reality. Because mitochondria cannot efficiently import RNAs, CRISPR has not been the first choice for editing mitochondrial genes. However, the last few years witnessed an explosion in novel and optimized non-CRISPR approaches to promote double-strand breaks or base-edit of mtDNA in vivo. Engineered forms of specific nucleases and cytidine/adenine deaminases form the basis for these techniques. I will review the newest developments that constitute the current toolbox for animal mtDNA gene editing in vivo, bringing these approaches not only to the exploration of mitochondrial function, but also closer to clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos T Moraes
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1600 NW 10th Ave, room 7044, Miami, FL 33136, United States
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2
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Burr SP, Chinnery PF. Origins of tissue and cell-type specificity in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disease. Hum Mol Genet 2024; 33:R3-R11. [PMID: 38779777 PMCID: PMC11112380 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddae059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations of mitochondrial (mt)DNA are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in humans, accounting for approximately two thirds of diagnosed mitochondrial disease. However, despite significant advances in technology since the discovery of the first disease-causing mtDNA mutations in 1988, the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of mtDNA disease remains challenging. This is partly due to the highly variable clinical presentation linked to tissue-specific vulnerability that determines which organs are affected. Organ involvement can vary between different mtDNA mutations, and also between patients carrying the same disease-causing variant. The clinical features frequently overlap with other non-mitochondrial diseases, both rare and common, adding to the diagnostic challenge. Building on previous findings, recent technological advances have cast further light on the mechanisms which underpin the organ vulnerability in mtDNA diseases, but our understanding is far from complete. In this review we explore the origins, current knowledge, and future directions of research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P Burr
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick F Chinnery
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Keith Peters Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
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3
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Eghbalsaied S, Lawler C, Petersen B, Hajiyev RA, Bischoff SR, Frankenberg S. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated base editors and their prospects for mitochondrial genome engineering. Gene Ther 2024; 31:209-223. [PMID: 38177342 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00434-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Base editors are a type of double-stranded break (DSB)-free gene editing technology that has opened up new possibilities for precise manipulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This includes cytosine and adenosine base editors and more recently guanosine base editors. Because of having low off-target and indel rates, there is a growing interest in developing and evolving this research field. Here, we provide a detailed update on DNA base editors. While base editing has widely been used for nuclear genome engineering, the growing interest in applying this technology to mitochondrial DNA has been faced with several challenges. While Cas9 protein has been shown to enter mitochondria, use of smaller Cas proteins, such as Cas12a, has higher import efficiency. However, sgRNA transfer into mitochondria is the most challenging step. sgRNA structure and ratio of Cas protein to sgRNA are both important factors for efficient sgRNA entry into mitochondria. In conclusion, while there are still several challenges to be addressed, ongoing research in this field holds the potential for new treatments and therapies for mitochondrial disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahin Eghbalsaied
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Animal Science, Isfahan Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Isfahan, Iran.
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Clancy Lawler
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Björn Petersen
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute (FLI), Mariensee, Germany
- eGenesis, 2706 HWY E, 53572, Mount Horeb, WI, USA
| | - Raul A Hajiyev
- Department of Genome Engineering, NovoHelix, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Steve R Bischoff
- Department of Genome Engineering, NovoHelix, Miami, FL, USA
- Foundry for Genome Engineering & Reproductive Medicine (FGERM), Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stephen Frankenberg
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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4
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Song M, Ye L, Yan Y, Li X, Han X, Hu S, Yu M. Mitochondrial diseases and mtDNA editing. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101057. [PMID: 38292200 PMCID: PMC10825299 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.06.026] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, and these diseases are often severe or even fatal. Mitochondrial diseases are often caused by mitochondrial DNA mutations. Currently, there is no curative treatment for patients with pathogenic mitochondrial DNA mutations. With the rapid development of traditional gene editing technologies, such as zinc finger nucleases and transcription activator-like effector nucleases methods, there has been a search for a mitochondrial gene editing technology that can edit mutated mitochondrial DNA; however, there are still some problems hindering the application of these methods. The discovery of the DddA-derived cytosine base editor has provided hope for mitochondrial gene editing. In this paper, we will review the progress in the research on several mitochondrial gene editing technologies with the hope that this review will be useful for further research on mitochondrial gene editing technologies to optimize the treatment of mitochondrial diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Song
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China
| | - Lingqun Ye
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China
| | - Yongjin Yan
- Hai'an People's Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu 226600, China
| | - Xuechun Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China
| | - Xinglong Han
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China
| | - Shijun Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China
| | - Miao Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China
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5
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Zhang D, Pries V, Boch J. Targeted C•G-to-T•A base editing with TALE-cytosine deaminases in plants. BMC Biol 2024; 22:99. [PMID: 38679734 PMCID: PMC11057107 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01895-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND TALE-derived DddA-based cytosine base editors (TALE-DdCBEs) can perform efficient base editing of mitochondria and chloroplast genomes. They use transcription activator-like effector (TALE) arrays as programmable DNA-binding domains and a split version of the double-strand DNA cytidine deaminase (DddA) to catalyze C•G-to-T•A editing. This technology has not been optimized for use in plant cells. RESULTS To systematically investigate TALE-DdCBE architectures and editing rules, we established a β-glucuronidase reporter for transient assays in Nicotiana benthamiana. We show that TALE-DdCBEs function with distinct spacer lengths between the DNA-binding sites of their two TALE parts. Compared to canonical DddA, TALE-DdCBEs containing evolved DddA variants (DddA6 or DddA11) showed a significant improvement in editing efficiency in Nicotiana benthamiana and rice. Moreover, TALE-DdCBEs containing DddA11 have broader sequence compatibility for non-TC target editing. We have successfully regenerated rice with C•G-to-T•A conversions in their chloroplast genome, as well as N. benthamiana with C•G-to-T•A editing in the nuclear genome using TALE-DdCBE. We also found that the spontaneous assembly of split DddA halves can cause undesired editing by TALE-DdCBEs in plants. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our results refined the targeting scope of TALE-DdCBEs and successfully applied them to target the chloroplast and nuclear genomes. Our study expands the base editing toolbox in plants and further defines parameters to optimize TALE-DdCBEs for high-fidelity crop improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingbo Zhang
- Leibniz University Hannover, Institute of Plant Genetics, Herrenhäuser Str. 2, Hannover, 30419, Germany
| | - Vanessa Pries
- Leibniz University Hannover, Institute of Plant Genetics, Herrenhäuser Str. 2, Hannover, 30419, Germany
| | - Jens Boch
- Leibniz University Hannover, Institute of Plant Genetics, Herrenhäuser Str. 2, Hannover, 30419, Germany.
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6
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Qiu J, Wu H, Xie Q, Zhou Y, Gao Y, Liu J, Jiang X, Suo L, Kuang Y. Harnessing accurate mitochondrial DNA base editing mediated by DdCBEs in a predictable manner. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1372211. [PMID: 38655388 PMCID: PMC11035818 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1372211] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Mitochondrial diseases caused by mtDNA have no effective cures. Recently developed DddA-derived cytosine base editors (DdCBEs) have potential therapeutic implications in rescuing the mtDNA mutations. However, the performance of DdCBEs relies on designing different targets or improving combinations of split-DddA halves and orientations, lacking knowledge of predicting the results before its application. Methods: A series of DdCBE pairs for wide ranges of aC or tC targets was constructed, and transfected into Neuro-2a cells. The mutation rate of targets was compared to figure out the potential editing rules. Results: It is found that DdCBEs mediated mtDNA editing is predictable: 1) aC targets have a concentrated editing window for mtDNA editing in comparison with tC targets, which at 5'C8-11 (G1333) and 5'C10-13 (G1397) for aC target, while 5'C4-13 (G1333) and 5'C5-14 (G1397) for tC target with 16bp spacer. 2) G1333 mediated C>T conversion at aC targets in DddA-half-specific manner, while G1333 and G1397 mediated C>T conversion are DddA-half-prefer separately for tC and aC targets. 3) The nucleotide adjacent to the 3' end of aC motif affects mtDNA editing. Finally, by the guidance of these rules, a cell model harboring a pathogenic mtDNA mutation was constructed with high efficiency and no bystander effects. Discussion: In summary, this discovery helps us conceive the optimal strategy for accurate mtDNA editing, avoiding time- and effort-consuming optimized screening jobs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lun Suo
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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7
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Bacman SR, Barrera-Paez JD, Pinto M, Van Booven D, Stewart JB, Griswold AJ, Moraes CT. mitoTALEN reduces the mutant mtDNA load in neurons. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102132. [PMID: 38404505 PMCID: PMC10883830 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Mutations within mtDNA frequently give rise to severe encephalopathies. Given that a majority of these mtDNA defects exist in a heteroplasmic state, we harnessed the precision of mitochondrial-targeted TALEN (mitoTALEN) to selectively eliminate mutant mtDNA within the CNS of a murine model harboring a heteroplasmic mutation in the mitochondrial tRNA alanine gene (m.5024C>T). This targeted approach was accomplished by the use of AAV-PHP.eB and a neuron-specific synapsin promoter for effective neuronal delivery and expression of mitoTALEN. We found that most CNS regions were effectively transduced and showed a significant reduction in mutant mtDNA. This reduction was accompanied by an increase in mitochondrial tRNA alanine levels, which are drastically reduced by the m.5024C>T mutation. These results showed that mitochondrial-targeted gene editing can be effective in reducing CNS-mutant mtDNA in vivo, paving the way for clinical trials in patients with mitochondrial encephalopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra R. Bacman
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jose Domingo Barrera-Paez
- Graduate Program in Human Genetics and Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Milena Pinto
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Derek Van Booven
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - James B. Stewart
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Anthony J. Griswold
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Carlos T. Moraes
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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8
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Fauser F, Kadam BN, Arangundy-Franklin S, Davis JE, Vaidya V, Schmidt NJ, Lew G, Xia DF, Mureli R, Ng C, Zhou Y, Scarlott NA, Eshleman J, Bendaña YR, Shivak DA, Reik A, Li P, Davis GD, Miller JC. Compact zinc finger architecture utilizing toxin-derived cytidine deaminases for highly efficient base editing in human cells. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1181. [PMID: 38360922 PMCID: PMC10869815 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45100-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Nucleobase editors represent an emerging technology that enables precise single-base edits to the genomes of eukaryotic cells. Most nucleobase editors use deaminase domains that act upon single-stranded DNA and require RNA-guided proteins such as Cas9 to unwind the DNA prior to editing. However, the most recent class of base editors utilizes a deaminase domain, DddAtox, that can act upon double-stranded DNA. Here, we target DddAtox fragments and a FokI-based nickase to the human CIITA gene by fusing these domains to arrays of engineered zinc fingers (ZFs). We also identify a broad variety of Toxin-Derived Deaminases (TDDs) orthologous to DddAtox that allow us to fine-tune properties such as targeting density and specificity. TDD-derived ZF base editors enable up to 73% base editing in T cells with good cell viability and favorable specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Garrett Lew
- Sangamo Therapeutics, Inc., Brisbane, CA, USA
| | - Danny F Xia
- Sangamo Therapeutics, Inc., Brisbane, CA, USA
| | | | - Colman Ng
- Sangamo Therapeutics, Inc., Brisbane, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Patrick Li
- Sangamo Therapeutics, Inc., Brisbane, CA, USA
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9
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Nikitchina N, Ulashchik E, Shmanai V, Heckel AM, Tarassov I, Mazunin I, Entelis N. Targeting of CRISPR-Cas12a crRNAs into human mitochondria. Biochimie 2024; 217:74-85. [PMID: 37690471 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.09.006] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial gene editing holds great promise as a therapeutic approach for mitochondrial diseases caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Current strategies focus on reducing mutant mtDNA heteroplasmy levels through targeted cleavage or base editing. However, the delivery of editing components into mitochondria remains a challenge. Here we investigate the import of CRISPR-Cas12a system guide RNAs (crRNAs) into human mitochondria and study the structural requirements for this process by northern blot analysis of RNA isolated from nucleases-treated mitoplasts. To investigate whether the fusion of crRNA with known RNA import determinants (MLS) improve its mitochondrial targeting, we added MLS hairpin structures at 3'-end of crRNA and demonstrated that this did not impact crRNA ability to program specific cleavage of DNA in lysate of human cells expressing AsCas12a nuclease. Surprisingly, mitochondrial localization of the fused crRNA molecules was not improved compared to non-modified version, indicating that structured scaffold domain of crRNA can probably function as MLS, assuring crRNA mitochondrial import. Then, we designed a series of crRNAs targeting different regions of mtDNA and demonstrated their ability to program specific cleavage of mtDNA fragments in cell lysate and their partial localization in mitochondrial matrix in human cells transfected with these RNA molecules. We hypothesize that mitochondrial import of crRNAs may depend on their secondary structure/sequence. We presume that imported crRNA allow reconstituting the active crRNA/Cas12a system in human mitochondria, which can contribute to the development of effective strategies for mitochondrial gene editing and potential future treatment of mitochondrial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Nikitchina
- UMR7156 - Molecular Genetics, Genomics, Microbiology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, 67000, France
| | - Egor Ulashchik
- Institute of Physical Organic Chemistry, National Academy of Science of Belarus, Minsk, 220072, Belarus
| | - Vadim Shmanai
- Institute of Physical Organic Chemistry, National Academy of Science of Belarus, Minsk, 220072, Belarus
| | - Anne-Marie Heckel
- UMR7156 - Molecular Genetics, Genomics, Microbiology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, 67000, France
| | - Ivan Tarassov
- UMR7156 - Molecular Genetics, Genomics, Microbiology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, 67000, France
| | - Ilya Mazunin
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, 143026, Russia
| | - Nina Entelis
- UMR7156 - Molecular Genetics, Genomics, Microbiology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, 67000, France.
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10
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Chiang ACY, Ježek J, Mu P, Di Y, Klucnika A, Jabůrek M, Ježek P, Ma H. Two mitochondrial DNA polymorphisms modulate cardiolipin binding and lead to synthetic lethality. Nat Commun 2024; 15:611. [PMID: 38242869 PMCID: PMC10799063 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44964-2] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetic screens have been used extensively to probe interactions between nuclear genes and their impact on phenotypes. Probing interactions between mitochondrial genes and their phenotypic outcome, however, has not been possible due to a lack of tools to map the responsible polymorphisms. Here, using a toolkit we previously established in Drosophila, we isolate over 300 recombinant mitochondrial genomes and map a naturally occurring polymorphism at the cytochrome c oxidase III residue 109 (CoIII109) that fully rescues the lethality and other defects associated with a point mutation in cytochrome c oxidase I (CoIT300I). Through lipidomics profiling, biochemical assays and phenotypic analyses, we show that the CoIII109 polymorphism modulates cardiolipin binding to prevent complex IV instability caused by the CoIT300I mutation. This study demonstrates the feasibility of genetic interaction screens in animal mitochondrial DNA. It unwraps the complex intra-genomic interplays underlying disorders linked to mitochondrial DNA and how they influence disease expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ason C Y Chiang
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Jan Ježek
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
- University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Royal Free Hospital, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Peiqiang Mu
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Function and Regulation in Agricultural Organisms, South China Agricultural University, Tianhe District, 510642, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Ying Di
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Anna Klucnika
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
- Laverock Therapeutics, Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Martin Jabůrek
- Laboratory of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Ježek
- Laboratory of Mitochondrial Physiology, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hansong Ma
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QN, UK.
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK.
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11
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Lim K. Mitochondrial genome editing: strategies, challenges, and applications. BMB Rep 2024; 57:19-29. [PMID: 38178652 PMCID: PMC10828433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), a multicopy genome found in mitochondria, is crucial for oxidative phosphorylation. Mutations in mtDNA can lead to severe mitochondrial dysfunction in tissues and organs with high energy demand. MtDNA mutations are closely associated with mitochondrial and age-related disease. To better understand the functional role of mtDNA and work toward developing therapeutics, it is essential to advance technology that is capable of manipulating the mitochondrial genome. This review discusses ongoing efforts in mitochondrial genome editing with mtDNA nucleases and base editors, including the tools, delivery strategies, and applications. Future advances in mitochondrial genome editing to address challenges regarding their efficiency and specificity can achieve the promise of therapeutic genome editing. [BMB Reports 2024; 57(1): 19-29].
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayeong Lim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
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12
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Gao Y, Guo L, Wang F, Wang Y, Li P, Zhang D. Development of mitochondrial gene-editing strategies and their potential applications in mitochondrial hereditary diseases: a review. Cytotherapy 2024; 26:11-24. [PMID: 37930294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a critical genome contained within the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells, with many copies present in each mitochondrion. Mutations in mtDNA often are inherited and can lead to severe health problems, including various inherited diseases and premature aging. The lack of efficient repair mechanisms and the susceptibility of mtDNA to damage exacerbate the threat to human health. Heteroplasmy, the presence of different mtDNA genotypes within a single cell, increases the complexity of these diseases and requires an effective editing method for correction. Recently, gene-editing techniques, including programmable nucleases such as restriction endonuclease, zinc finger nuclease, transcription activator-like effector nuclease, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated 9 and base editors, have provided new tools for editing mtDNA in mammalian cells. Base editors are particularly promising because of their high efficiency and precision in correcting mtDNA mutations. In this review, we discuss the application of these techniques in mitochondrial gene editing and their limitations. We also explore the potential of base editors for mtDNA modification and discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with their application in mitochondrial gene editing. In conclusion, this review highlights the advancements, limitations and opportunities in current mitochondrial gene-editing technologies and approaches. Our insights aim to stimulate the development of new editing strategies that can ultimately alleviate the adverse effects of mitochondrial hereditary diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Gao
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Linlin Guo
- The Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dejiu Zhang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
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13
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Keshavan N, Minczuk M, Viscomi C, Rahman S. Gene therapy for mitochondrial disorders. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024; 47:145-175. [PMID: 38171948 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
In this review, we detail the current state of application of gene therapy to primary mitochondrial disorders (PMDs). Recombinant adeno-associated virus-based (rAAV) gene replacement approaches for nuclear gene disorders have been undertaken successfully in more than ten preclinical mouse models of PMDs which has been made possible by the development of novel rAAV technologies that achieve more efficient organ targeting. So far, however, the greatest progress has been made for Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, for which phase 3 clinical trials of lenadogene nolparvovec demonstrated efficacy and good tolerability. Other methods of treating mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disorders have also had traction, including refinements to nucleases that degrade mtDNA molecules with pathogenic variants, including transcription activator-like effector nucleases, zinc-finger nucleases, and meganucleases (mitoARCUS). rAAV-based approaches have been used successfully to deliver these nucleases in vivo in mice. Exciting developments in CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology have achieved in vivo gene editing in mouse models of PMDs due to nuclear gene defects and new CRISPR-free gene editing approaches have shown great potential for therapeutic application in mtDNA disorders. We conclude the review by discussing the challenges of translating gene therapy in patients both from the point of view of achieving adequate organ transduction as well as clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandaki Keshavan
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Michal Minczuk
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carlo Viscomi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padova, Italy
| | - Shamima Rahman
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
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14
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Wei Y, Jin M, Huang S, Yao F, Ren N, Xu K, Li S, Gao P, Zhou Y, Chen Y, Yang H, Li W, Xu C, Zhang M, Wang X. Enhanced C-To-T and A-To-G Base Editing in Mitochondrial DNA with Engineered DdCBE and TALED. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2304113. [PMID: 37984866 PMCID: PMC10797475 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial base editing with DddA-derived cytosine base editor (DdCBE) is limited in the accessible target sequences and modest activity. Here, the optimized DdCBE tools is presented with improved editing activity and expanded C-to-T targeting scope by fusing DddA11 variant with different cytosine deaminases with single-strand DNA activity. Compared to previous DdCBE based on DddA11 variant alone, fusion of the activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) from Xenopus laevis not only permits cytosine editing of 5'-GC-3' sequence, but also elevates editing efficiency at 5'-TC-3', 5'-CC-3', and 5'-GC-3' targets by up to 25-, 10-, and 6-fold, respectively. Furthermore, the A-to-G editing efficiency is significantly improved by fusing the evolved DddA6 variant with TALE-linked deoxyadenosine deaminase (TALED). Notably, the authors introduce the reported high-fidelity mutations in DddA and add nuclear export signal (NES) sequences in DdCBE and TALED to reduce off-target editing in the nuclear and mitochondrial genome while improving on-target editing efficiency in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Finally, these engineered mitochondrial base editors are shown to be efficient in installing mtDNA mutations in human cells or mouse embryos for disease modeling. Collectively, the study shows broad implications for the basic study and therapeutic applications of optimized DdCBE and TALED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghui Wei
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
- School of Future Technology on Bio‐BreedingCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
| | - Ming Jin
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology of First Affiliated HospitalInstitute of Neuroscience, and Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular NeurologyFujian Medical UniversityFuzhouFujian350004China
| | - Shuhong Huang
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
| | - Fangyao Yao
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
| | - Ningxin Ren
- HuidaGene Therapeutics Co., Ltd.Shanghai200131China
| | - Kun Xu
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
| | - Shangpu Li
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
| | - Pengfei Gao
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
| | - Yingsi Zhou
- HuidaGene Therapeutics Co., Ltd.Shanghai200131China
| | - Yulin Chen
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
- School of Future Technology on Bio‐BreedingCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
| | - Hui Yang
- HuidaGene Therapeutics Co., Ltd.Shanghai200131China
- Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Inspired IntelligenceShanghai201602China
| | - Wen Li
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Chunlong Xu
- Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Inspired IntelligenceShanghai201602China
| | - Meiling Zhang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200030China
| | - Xiaolong Wang
- International Joint Agriculture Research Center for Animal Bio‐Breeding of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural AffairsCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
- School of Future Technology on Bio‐BreedingCollege of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F UniversityYanglingShaanxi712100China
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15
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Kim JS, Chen J. Base editing of organellar DNA with programmable deaminases. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:34-45. [PMID: 37794167 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00663-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria and chloroplasts are organelles that include their own genomes, which encode key genes for ATP production and carbon dioxide fixation, respectively. Mutations in mitochondrial DNA can cause diverse genetic disorders and are also linked to ageing and age-related diseases, including cancer. Targeted editing of organellar DNA should be useful for studying organellar genes and developing novel therapeutics, but it has been hindered by lack of efficient tools in living cells. Recently, CRISPR-free, protein-only base editors, such as double-stranded DNA deaminase toxin A-derived cytosine base editors (DdCBEs) and adenine base editors (ABEs), have been developed, which enable targeted organellar DNA editing in human cell lines, animals and plants. In this Review, we present programmable deaminases developed for base editing of organellar DNA in vitro and discuss mitochondrial DNA editing in animals, and plastid genome (plastome) editing in plants. We also discuss precision and efficiency limitations of these tools and propose improvements for therapeutic, agricultural and environmental applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Soo Kim
- NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical & Technological Innovation (SynCTI) and Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Edgene, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Jia Chen
- Gene Editing Center, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Clinical Research and Trial Center, Shanghai, China.
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16
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Hathazi D, Horvath R. Mitochondrial DNA editing with mitoARCUS. Nat Metab 2023; 5:2039-2040. [PMID: 38036769 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00933-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Denisa Hathazi
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rita Horvath
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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17
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Hirose M, Sekar P, Eladham MWA, Albataineh MT, Rahmani M, Ibrahim SM. Interaction between mitochondria and microbiota modulating cellular metabolism in inflammatory bowel disease. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:1513-1526. [PMID: 37819377 PMCID: PMC10698103 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02381-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a prototypic complex disease in the gastrointestinal tract that has been increasing in incidence and prevalence in recent decades. Although the precise pathophysiology of IBD remains to be elucidated, a large body of evidence suggests the critical roles of mitochondria and intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of IBD. In addition to their contributions to the disease, both mitochondria and gut microbes may interact with each other and modulate disease-causing cell activities. Therefore, we hypothesize that dissecting this unique interaction may help to identify novel pathways involved in IBD, which will further contribute to discovering new therapeutic approaches to the disease. As poorly treated IBD significantly affects the quality of life of patients and is associated with risks and complications, successful treatment is crucial. In this review, we stratify previously reported experimental and clinical observations of the role of mitochondria and intestinal microbiota in IBD. Additionally, we review the intercommunication between mitochondria, and the intestinal microbiome in patients with IBD is reviewed along with the potential mediators for these interactions. We specifically focus on their roles in cellular metabolism in intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells. To this end, we propose a potential therapeutic intervention strategy for IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misa Hirose
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Priyadharshini Sekar
- Sharjah Institute of Medical Research, RIMHS, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Mohammad T Albataineh
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed Rahmani
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saleh Mohamed Ibrahim
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany.
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
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18
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Okamoto R, Xiao W, Fukasawa H, Hirata S, Sankai T, Masuyama H, Otsuki J. Aggregated chromosomes/chromatin transfer: a novel approach for mitochondrial replacement with minimal mitochondrial carryover: the implications of mouse experiments for human aggregated chromosome transfer. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad043. [PMID: 38039159 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad043] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear transfer techniques, including spindle chromosome complex (SC) transfer and pronuclear transfer, have been employed to mitigate mitochondrial diseases. Nevertheless, the challenge of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) carryover remains unresolved. Previously, we introduced a method for aggregated chromosome (AC) transfer in human subjects, offering a potential solution. However, the subsequent rates of embryonic development have remained unexplored owing to legal limitations in Japan, and animal studies have been hindered by a lack of AC formation in other species. Building upon our success in generating ACs within mouse oocytes via utilization of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-isobutyl 1-methylxanthine (IBMX), this study has established a mouse model for AC transfer. Subsequently, a comparative analysis of embryo development rates and mtDNA carryover between AC transfer and SC transfer was conducted. Additionally, the mitochondrial distribution around SC and AC structures was investigated, revealing that in oocytes at the metaphase II stage, the mitochondria exhibited a relatively concentrated arrangement around the spindle apparatus, while the distribution of mitochondria in AC-formed oocytes appeared to be independent of the AC position. The AC transfer approach produced a marked augmentation in rates of fertilization, embryo cleavage, and blastocyst formation, especially as compared to scenarios without AC transfer in IBMX-treated AC-formed oocytes. No significant disparities in fertilization and embryo development rates were observed between AC and SC transfers. However, relative real-time PCR analyses revealed that the mtDNA carryover for AC transfers was one-tenth and therefore significantly lower than that of SC transfers. This study successfully accomplished nuclear transfers with ACs in mouse oocytes, offering an insight into the potential of AC transfers as a solution to heteroplasmy-related challenges. These findings are promising in terms of future investigation with human oocytes, thus advancing AC transfer as an innovative approach in the field of human nuclear transfer methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Okamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - W Xiao
- Department of Applied Animal Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - H Fukasawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - S Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - T Sankai
- Tsukuba Primate Research Center, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - H Masuyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
| | - J Otsuki
- Department of Applied Animal Science, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Okayama University, Kita, Okayama, Japan
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19
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Chen X, Chen M, Zhu Y, Sun H, Wang Y, Xie Y, Ji L, Wang C, Hu Z, Guo X, Xu Z, Zhang J, Yang S, Liang D, Shen B. Correction of a homoplasmic mitochondrial tRNA mutation in patient-derived iPSCs via a mitochondrial base editor. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1116. [PMID: 37923818 PMCID: PMC10624837 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05500-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic mutations in mitochondrial DNA cause severe and often lethal multi-system symptoms in primary mitochondrial defects. However, effective therapies for these defects are still lacking. Strategies such as employing mitochondrially targeted restriction enzymes or programmable nucleases to shift the ratio of heteroplasmic mutations and allotopic expression of mitochondrial protein-coding genes have limitations in treating mitochondrial homoplasmic mutations, especially in non-coding genes. Here, we conduct a proof of concept study applying a screened DdCBE pair to correct the homoplasmic m.A4300G mutation in induced pluripotent stem cells derived from a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. We achieve efficient G4300A correction with limited off-target editing, and successfully restore mitochondrial function in corrected induced pluripotent stem cell clones. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of using DdCBE to treat primary mitochondrial defects caused by homoplasmic pathogenic mitochondrial DNA mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Mingyue Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yuqing Zhu
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Haifeng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yuan Xie
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Lianfu Ji
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhengfeng Xu
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, 210004, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Shiwei Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Dong Liang
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, 210004, China.
| | - Bin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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20
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Sun H, Wang Z, Shen L, Feng Y, Han L, Qian X, Meng R, Ji K, Liang D, Zhou F, Lou X, Zhang J, Shen B. Developing mitochondrial base editors with diverse context compatibility and high fidelity via saturated spacer library. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6625. [PMID: 37857619 PMCID: PMC10587121 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42359-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
DddA-derived cytosine base editors (DdCBEs) greatly facilitated the basic and therapeutic research of mitochondrial DNA mutation diseases. Here we devise a saturated spacer library and successfully identify seven DddA homologs by performing high-throughput sequencing based screen. DddAs of Streptomyces sp. BK438 and Lachnospiraceae bacterium sunii NSJ-8 display high deaminase activity with a strong GC context preference, and DddA of Ruminococcus sp. AF17-6 is highly compatible to AC context. We also find that different split sites result in wide divergence on off-target activity and context preference of DdCBEs derived from these DddA homologs. Additionally, we demonstrate the orthogonality between DddA and DddIA, and successfully minimize the nuclear off-target editing by co-expressing corresponding nuclear-localized DddIA. The current study presents a comprehensive and unbiased strategy for screening and characterizing dsDNA cytidine deaminases, and expands the toolbox for mtDNA editing, providing additional insights for optimizing dsDNA base editors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhaojun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Limini Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yeling Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Lu Han
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xuezhen Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Runde Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Kangming Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Dong Liang
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, 210004, China
| | - Fei Zhou
- Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource Center, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xin Lou
- Research Institute of Intelligent Computing, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, 311100, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Bin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Center for Global Health, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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21
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Yin L, Shi K, Aihara H. Structural basis of sequence-specific cytosine deamination by double-stranded DNA deaminase toxin DddA. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:1153-1159. [PMID: 37460895 PMCID: PMC10442228 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-01034-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
The interbacterial deaminase toxin DddA catalyzes cytosine-to-uracil conversion in double-stranded (ds) DNA and enables CRISPR-free mitochondrial base editing, but the molecular mechanisms underlying its unique substrate selectivity have remained elusive. Here, we report crystal structures of DddA bound to a dsDNA substrate containing the 5'-TC target motif. These structures show that DddA binds to the minor groove of a sharply bent dsDNA and engages the target cytosine extruded from the double helix. DddA Phe1375 intercalates in dsDNA and displaces the 5' (-1) thymine, which in turn replaces the target (0) cytosine and forms a noncanonical T-G base pair with the juxtaposed guanine. This tandem displacement mechanism allows DddA to locate a target cytosine without flipping it into the active site. Biochemical experiments demonstrate that DNA base mismatches enhance the DddA deaminase activity and relax its sequence selectivity. On the basis of the structural information, we further identified DddA mutants that exhibit attenuated activity or altered substrate preference. Our studies may help design new tools useful in genome editing or other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Yin
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ke Shi
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Hideki Aihara
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
- Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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22
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Liang Y, Chen F, Wang K, Lai L. Base editors: development and applications in biomedicine. Front Med 2023; 17:359-387. [PMID: 37434066 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1013-y] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Base editor (BE) is a gene-editing tool developed by combining the CRISPR/Cas system with an individual deaminase, enabling precise single-base substitution in DNA or RNA without generating a DNA double-strand break (DSB) or requiring donor DNA templates in living cells. Base editors offer more precise and secure genome-editing effects than other conventional artificial nuclease systems, such as CRISPR/Cas9, as the DSB induced by Cas9 will cause severe damage to the genome. Thus, base editors have important applications in the field of biomedicine, including gene function investigation, directed protein evolution, genetic lineage tracing, disease modeling, and gene therapy. Since the development of the two main base editors, cytosine base editors (CBEs) and adenine base editors (ABEs), scientists have developed more than 100 optimized base editors with improved editing efficiency, precision, specificity, targeting scope, and capacity to be delivered in vivo, greatly enhancing their application potential in biomedicine. Here, we review the recent development of base editors, summarize their applications in the biomedical field, and discuss future perspectives and challenges for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Liang
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China
| | - Fangbing Chen
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China
| | - Kepin Wang
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China
| | - Liangxue Lai
- China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science and Innovation, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU015), Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Sanya Institute of Swine Resource, Hainan Provincial Research Centre of Laboratory Animals, Sanya, 572000, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China.
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23
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Yang R, Li L, Hou Y, Li Y, Zhang J, Yang N, Zhang Y, Ji W, Yu T, Lv L, Liang H, Li X, Li T, Shan H. Long non-coding RNA KCND1 protects hearts from hypertrophy by targeting YBX1. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:344. [PMID: 37253771 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05852-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac hypertrophy is a common structural remodeling in many cardiovascular diseases. Recently, long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) were found to be involved in the physiological and pathological processes of cardiac hypertrophy. In this study, we found that LncRNA KCND1 (LncKCND1) was downregulated in both transverse aortic constriction (TAC)-induced hypertrophic mouse hearts and Angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced neonatal mouse cardiomyocytes. Further analyses showed that the knockdown of LncKCND1 impaired cardiac mitochondrial function and led to hypertrophic changes in cardiomyocytes. In contrast, overexpression of LncKCND1 inhibited Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophic changes. Importantly, enhanced expression of LncKCND1 protected the heart from TAC-induced pathological cardiac hypertrophy and improved heart function in TAC mice. Subsequent analyses involving mass spectrometry and RNA immunoprecipitation assays showed that LncKCND1 directly binds to YBX1. Furthermore, overexpression of LncKCND1 upregulated the expression level of YBX1, while silencing LncKCND1 had the opposite effect. Furthermore, YBX1 was downregulated during cardiac hypertrophy, whereas overexpression of YBX1 inhibited Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Moreover, silencing YBX1 reversed the effect of LncKCND1 on cardiomyocyte mitochondrial function and its protective role in cardiac hypertrophy, suggesting that YBX1 is a downstream target of LncKCND1 in regulating cardiac hypertrophy. In conclusion, our study provides mechanistic insights into the functioning of LncKCND1 and supports LncKCND1 as a potential therapeutic target for pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Yang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010110, China
| | - Liangliang Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yumeng Hou
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yingnan Li
- Center for Tumor and Immunology, the Precision Medical Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710115, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Na Yang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Weihang Ji
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Lifang Lv
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Basic Medicine, The Centre of Functional Experiment Teaching, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Haihai Liang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Research Unit of Noninfectious Chronic Diseases in Frigid Zone (2019RU070), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xuelian Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China.
| | - Hongli Shan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Center for Druggability of Cardiovascular noncoding RNA, Institute for Frontier Medical Technology, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai, 201620, China.
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China.
- Research Unit of Noninfectious Chronic Diseases in Frigid Zone (2019RU070), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, 150081, China.
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24
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Dowling DK, Wolff JN. Evolutionary genetics of the mitochondrial genome: insights from Drosophila. Genetics 2023:7160843. [PMID: 37171259 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyad036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are key to energy conversion in virtually all eukaryotes. Intriguingly, despite billions of years of evolution inside the eukaryote, mitochondria have retained their own small set of genes involved in the regulation of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and protein translation. Although there was a long-standing assumption that the genetic variation found within the mitochondria would be selectively neutral, research over the past 3 decades has challenged this assumption. This research has provided novel insight into the genetic and evolutionary forces that shape mitochondrial evolution and broader implications for evolutionary ecological processes. Many of the seminal studies in this field, from the inception of the research field to current studies, have been conducted using Drosophila flies, thus establishing the species as a model system for studies in mitochondrial evolutionary biology. In this review, we comprehensively review these studies, from those focusing on genetic processes shaping evolution within the mitochondrial genome, to those examining the evolutionary implications of interactions between genes spanning mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, and to those investigating the dynamics of mitochondrial heteroplasmy. We synthesize the contribution of these studies to shaping our understanding of the evolutionary and ecological implications of mitochondrial genetic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian K Dowling
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jonci N Wolff
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
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25
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Phan HTL, Lee H, Kim K. Trends and prospects in mitochondrial genome editing. Exp Mol Med 2023:10.1038/s12276-023-00973-7. [PMID: 37121968 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00973-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are of fundamental importance in programmed cell death, cellular metabolism, and intracellular calcium concentration modulation, and inheritable mitochondrial disorders via mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutation cause several diseases in various organs and systems. Nevertheless, mtDNA editing, which plays an essential role in the treatment of mitochondrial disorders, still faces several challenges. Recently, programmable editing tools for mtDNA base editing, such as cytosine base editors derived from DddA (DdCBEs), transcription activator-like effector (TALE)-linked deaminase (TALED), and zinc finger deaminase (ZFD), have emerged with considerable potential for correcting pathogenic mtDNA variants. In this review, we depict recent advances in the field, including structural biology and repair mechanisms, and discuss the prospects of using base editing tools on mtDNA to broaden insight into their medical applicability for treating mitochondrial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Thi Lam Phan
- Department of Physiology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunji Lee
- Laboratory Animal Resource and Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 28116, Cheongju, Republic of Korea.
- School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyoungmi Kim
- Department of Physiology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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26
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Tan L, Qi X, Kong W, Jin J, Lu D, Zhang X, Wang Y, Wang S, Dong W, Shi X, Chen W, Wang J, Li K, Xie Y, Gao L, Guan F, Gao K, Li C, Wang C, Hu Z, Zhang L, Guo X, Shen B, Ma Y. A conditional knockout rat resource of mitochondrial protein-coding genes via a DdCBE-induced premature stop codon. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadf2695. [PMID: 37058569 PMCID: PMC10104465 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adf2695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Hundreds of pathogenic variants of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been reported to cause mitochondrial diseases, which still lack effective treatments. It is a huge challenge to install these mutations one by one. We repurposed the DddA-derived cytosine base editor to incorporate a premature stop codon in the mtProtein-coding genes to ablate mitochondrial proteins encoded in the mtDNA (mtProteins) instead of installing pathogenic variants and generated a library of both cell and rat resources with mtProtein depletion. In vitro, we depleted 12 of 13 mtProtein-coding genes with high efficiency and specificity, resulting in decreased mtProtein levels and impaired oxidative phosphorylation. Moreover, we generated six conditional knockout rat strains to ablate mtProteins using Cre/loxP system. Mitochondrially encoded ATP synthase membrane subunit 8 and NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase core subunit 1 were specifically depleted in heart cells or neurons, resulting in heart failure or abnormal brain development. Our work provides cell and rat resources for studying the function of mtProtein-coding genes and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaolong Qi
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, National Health Commission of China (NHC), Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Weining Kong
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiachuan Jin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, National Health Commission of China (NHC), Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Siting Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Dong
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Xudong Shi
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, National Health Commission of China (NHC), Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Keru Li
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, National Health Commission of China (NHC), Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Xie
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lijuan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, National Health Commission of China (NHC), Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Feifei Guan
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Gao
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for Experimental Animal Models of Human Critical Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
| | - Chaojun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lianfeng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, National Health Commission of China (NHC), Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Zhejiang Laboratory, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuanwu Ma
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, National Health Commission of China (NHC), Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Human Diseases Animal Model Resource Center, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medicine College, Beijing, China
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27
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Rubalcava-Gracia D, García-Villegas R, Larsson NG. No role for nuclear transcription regulators in mammalian mitochondria? Mol Cell 2023; 83:832-842. [PMID: 36182692 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Although the mammalian mtDNA transcription machinery is simple and resembles bacteriophage systems, there are many reports that nuclear transcription regulators, as exemplified by MEF2D, MOF, PGC-1α, and hormone receptors, are imported into mammalian mitochondria and directly interact with the mtDNA transcription machinery. However, the supporting experimental evidence for this concept is open to alternate interpretations, and a main issue is the difficulty in distinguishing indirect regulation of mtDNA transcription, caused by altered nuclear gene expression, from direct intramitochondrial effects. We provide a critical discussion and experimental guidelines to stringently assess roles of intramitochondrial factors implicated in direct regulation of mammalian mtDNA transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Rubalcava-Gracia
- Division of Molecular Metabolism, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rodolfo García-Villegas
- Division of Molecular Metabolism, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nils-Göran Larsson
- Division of Molecular Metabolism, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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28
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Tolle I, Tiranti V, Prigione A. Modeling mitochondrial DNA diseases: from base editing to pluripotent stem-cell-derived organoids. EMBO Rep 2023; 24:e55678. [PMID: 36876467 PMCID: PMC10074100 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202255678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diseases are multi-systemic disorders caused by mutations affecting a fraction or the entirety of mtDNA copies. Currently, there are no approved therapies for the majority of mtDNA diseases. Challenges associated with engineering mtDNA have in fact hindered the study of mtDNA defects. Despite these difficulties, it has been possible to develop valuable cellular and animal models of mtDNA diseases. Here, we describe recent advances in base editing of mtDNA and the generation of three-dimensional organoids from patient-derived human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Together with already available modeling tools, the combination of these novel technologies could allow determining the impact of specific mtDNA mutations in distinct human cell types and might help uncover how mtDNA mutation load segregates during tissue organization. iPSC-derived organoids could also represent a platform for the identification of treatment strategies and for probing the in vitro effectiveness of mtDNA gene therapies. These studies have the potential to increase our mechanistic understanding of mtDNA diseases and may open the way to highly needed and personalized therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Tolle
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Valeria Tiranti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Prigione
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
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29
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Chou CW, Hsu YC. Current development of patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells harbouring mitochondrial gene mutations and their applications in the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss. Hear Res 2023; 429:108689. [PMID: 36649664 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2023.108689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Of all the human body's sensory systems, the auditory system is perhaps its most intricate. Hearing loss can result from even modest damage or cell death in the inner ear, and is the most common form of sensory loss. Human hearing is made possible by the sensory epithelium, the lateral wall, and auditory nerves. The most prominent functional cells in the sensory epithelium are outer hair cells (OHCs), inner hair cells (IHCs), and supporting cells. Different sound frequencies are processed by OHCs and IHCs in different cochlear regions, with those in the apex responsible for low frequencies and those in the basal region responsible for high frequencies. Hair cells can be damaged or destroyed by loud noise, aging process, genetic mutations, ototoxicity, infection, and illness. As such, they are a primary target for treating sensorineural hearing loss. Other areas known to affect hearing include spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) in the auditory nerve. Age-related degradation of HCs and SGNs can also cause hearing loss. The aim of this review is to introduce the roles of mitochondria in human auditory system and the inner ear's main cell types and cellular functions, before going on to detail the likely health benefits of iPSC technology. We posit that patient-specific iPSCs with mitochondrial gene mutations will be an important aspect of regenerative medicine and will lead to significant progress in the treatment of SNHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Wen Chou
- Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chao Hsu
- Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
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30
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Delivering Base Editors In Vivo by Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2606:135-158. [PMID: 36592313 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2879-9_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR base editors are genome-modifying proteins capable of creating single-base substitutions in DNA but without the requirement for a DNA double-strand break. Given their ability to precisely edit DNA, they hold tremendous therapeutic potential. Here, we describe procedures for delivering base editors in vivo via adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors, a promising engineered gene delivery vehicle capable of transducing a range of cell types and tissues. We provide step by step protocols for (i) designing and validating base editing systems, (ii) packaging base editors into recombinant AAV vector particles, (iii) delivering AAV to the central nervous system via intrathecal injection, and (iv) quantifying base editing frequencies by next-generation sequencing.
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31
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Advances in Human Mitochondria-Based Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010608. [PMID: 36614050 PMCID: PMC9820658 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are the key biological generators of eukaryotic cells, controlling the energy supply while providing many important biosynthetic intermediates. Mitochondria act as a dynamic, functionally and structurally interconnected network hub closely integrated with other cellular compartments via biomembrane systems, transmitting biological information by shuttling between cells and tissues. Defects and dysregulation of mitochondrial functions are critically involved in pathological mechanisms contributing to aging, cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, and other severe human diseases. Mediating and rejuvenating the mitochondria may therefore be of significant benefit to prevent, reverse, and even treat such pathological conditions in patients. The goal of this review is to present the most advanced strategies using mitochondria to manage such disorders and to further explore innovative approaches in the field of human mitochondria-based therapies.
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32
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Base editing ablates all protein-coding genes of the mitochondrial genome in mouse cells. Nat Biomed Eng 2022; 7:614-615. [PMID: 36509914 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00986-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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33
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Silva-Pinheiro P, Mutti CD, Van Haute L, Powell CA, Nash PA, Turner K, Minczuk M. A library of base editors for the precise ablation of all protein-coding genes in the mouse mitochondrial genome. Nat Biomed Eng 2022; 7:692-703. [PMID: 36470976 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00968-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
The development of curative treatments for mitochondrial diseases, which are often caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that impair energy metabolism and other aspects of cellular homoeostasis, is hindered by an incomplete understanding of the underlying biology and a scarcity of cellular and animal models. Here we report the design and application of a library of double-stranded-DNA deaminase-derived cytosine base editors optimized for the precise ablation of every mtDNA protein-coding gene in the mouse mitochondrial genome. We used the library, which we named MitoKO, to produce near-homoplasmic knockout cells in vitro and to generate a mouse knockout with high heteroplasmy levels and no off-target edits. MitoKO should facilitate systematic and comprehensive investigations of mtDNA-related pathways and their impact on organismal homoeostasis, and aid the generation of clinically meaningful in vivo models of mtDNA dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christian D Mutti
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Lindsey Van Haute
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Pavel A Nash
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Keira Turner
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michal Minczuk
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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34
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Mok YG, Hong S, Bae SJ, Cho SI, Kim JS. Targeted A-to-G base editing of chloroplast DNA in plants. NATURE PLANTS 2022; 8:1378-1384. [PMID: 36456803 PMCID: PMC9788985 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-022-01279-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) encodes up to 315 (typically, 120-130) genes1, including those for essential components in photosystems I and II and the large subunit of RuBisCo, which catalyses CO2 fixation in plants. Targeted mutagenesis in cpDNA will be broadly useful for studying the functions of these genes in molecular detail and for developing crops and other plants with desired traits. Unfortunately, CRISPR-Cas9 and CRISPR-derived base editors, which enable targeted genetic modifications in nuclear DNA, are not suitable for organellar DNA editing2, owing to the difficulty of delivering guide RNA into organelles. CRISPR-free, protein-only base editors (including DddA-derived cytosine base editors3-8 and zinc finger deaminases9), originally developed for mitochondrial DNA editing in mammalian cells, can be used for C-to-T, rather than A-to-G, editing in cpDNA10-12. Here we show that heritable homoplasmic A-to-G edits can be induced in cpDNA, leading to phenotypic changes, using transcription activator-like effector-linked deaminases13.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Geun Mok
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- GreenGene Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghyun Hong
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- GreenGene Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Su-Ji Bae
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Ik Cho
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Soo Kim
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- GreenGene Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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35
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Kim M, Mahmood M, Reznik E, Gammage PA. Mitochondrial DNA is a major source of driver mutations in cancer. Trends Cancer 2022; 8:1046-1059. [PMID: 36041967 PMCID: PMC9671861 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations are among the most common genetic events in all tumors and directly impact metabolic homeostasis. Despite the central role mitochondria play in energy metabolism and cellular physiology, the role of mutations in the mitochondrial genomes of tumors has been contentious. Until recently, genomic and functional studies of mtDNA variants were impeded by a lack of adequate tumor mtDNA sequencing data and available methods for mitochondrial genome engineering. These barriers and a conceptual fog surrounding the functional impact of mtDNA mutations in tumors have begun to lift, revealing a path to understanding the role of this essential metabolic genome in cancer initiation and progression. Here we discuss the history, recent developments, and challenges that remain for mitochondrial oncogenetics as the impact of a major new class of cancer-associated mutations is unveiled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsoo Kim
- Computational Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Ed Reznik
- Computational Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Urology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Payam A Gammage
- CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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36
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Willis JCW, Silva-Pinheiro P, Widdup L, Minczuk M, Liu DR. Compact zinc finger base editors that edit mitochondrial or nuclear DNA in vitro and in vivo. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7204. [PMID: 36418298 PMCID: PMC9684478 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34784-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
DddA-derived cytosine base editors (DdCBEs) use programmable DNA-binding TALE repeat arrays, rather than CRISPR proteins, a split double-stranded DNA cytidine deaminase (DddA), and a uracil glycosylase inhibitor to mediate C•G-to-T•A editing in nuclear and organelle DNA. Here we report the development of zinc finger DdCBEs (ZF-DdCBEs) and the improvement of their editing performance through engineering their architectures, defining improved ZF scaffolds, and installing DddA activity-enhancing mutations. We engineer variants with improved DNA specificity by integrating four strategies to reduce off-target editing. We use optimized ZF-DdCBEs to install or correct disease-associated mutations in mitochondria and in the nucleus. Leveraging their small size, we use a single AAV9 to deliver into heart, liver, and skeletal muscle in post-natal mice ZF-DdCBEs that efficiently install disease-associated mutations. While off-target editing of ZF-DdCBEs is likely too high for therapeutic applications, these findings demonstrate a compact, all-protein base editing research tool for precise editing of organelle or nuclear DNA without double-strand DNA breaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian C W Willis
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Lily Widdup
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Michal Minczuk
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - David R Liu
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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37
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Falabella M, Minczuk M, Hanna MG, Viscomi C, Pitceathly RDS. Gene therapy for primary mitochondrial diseases: experimental advances and clinical challenges. Nat Rev Neurol 2022; 18:689-698. [PMID: 36257993 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00715-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The variable clinical and biochemical manifestations of primary mitochondrial diseases (PMDs), and the complexity of mitochondrial genetics, have proven to be a substantial barrier to the development of effective disease-modifying therapies. Encouraging data from gene therapy trials in patients with Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and advances in DNA editing techniques have raised expectations that successful clinical transition of genetic therapies for PMDs is feasible. However, obstacles to the clinical application of genetic therapies in PMDs remain; the development of innovative, safe and effective genome editing technologies and vectors will be crucial to their future success and clinical approval. In this Perspective, we review progress towards the genetic treatment of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA-related PMDs. We discuss advances in mitochondrial DNA editing technologies alongside the unique challenges to targeting mitochondrial genomes. Last, we consider ongoing trials and regulatory requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micol Falabella
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Michal Minczuk
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael G Hanna
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Queen Square Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Carlo Viscomi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- CESNE - Center for the Study of Neurodegeneration, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Robert D S Pitceathly
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
- NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Queen Square Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK.
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38
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Chiaratti MR, Chinnery PF. Modulating mitochondrial DNA mutations: factors shaping heteroplasmy in the germ line and somatic cells. Pharmacol Res 2022; 185:106466. [PMID: 36174964 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Until recently it was thought that most humans only harbor one type of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), however, deep sequencing and single-cell analysis has shown the converse - that mixed populations of mtDNA (heteroplasmy) are the norm. This is important because heteroplasmy levels can change dramatically during transmission in the female germ line, leading to high levels causing severe mitochondrial diseases. There is also emerging evidence that low level mtDNA mutations contribute to common late onset diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders and cardiometabolic diseases because the inherited mutation levels can change within developing organs and non-dividing cells over time. Initial predictions suggested that the segregation of mtDNA heteroplasmy was largely stochastic, with an equal tendency for levels to increase or decrease. However, transgenic animal work and single-cell analysis have shown this not to be the case during germ-line transmission and in somatic tissues during life. Mutation levels in specific mtDNA regions can increase or decrease in different contexts and the underlying molecular mechanisms are starting to be unraveled. In this review we provide a synthesis of recent literature on the mechanisms of selection for and against mtDNA variants. We identify the most pertinent gaps in our understanding and suggest ways these could be addressed using state of the art techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos R Chiaratti
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil.
| | - Patrick F Chinnery
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK; Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.
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39
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Raguram A, Banskota S, Liu DR. Therapeutic in vivo delivery of gene editing agents. Cell 2022; 185:2806-2827. [PMID: 35798006 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.03.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In vivo gene editing therapies offer the potential to treat the root causes of many genetic diseases. Realizing the promise of therapeutic in vivo gene editing requires the ability to safely and efficiently deliver gene editing agents to relevant organs and tissues in vivo. Here, we review current delivery technologies that have been used to enable therapeutic in vivo gene editing, including viral vectors, lipid nanoparticles, and virus-like particles. Since no single delivery modality is likely to be appropriate for every possible application, we compare the benefits and drawbacks of each method and highlight opportunities for future improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Raguram
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Samagya Banskota
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David R Liu
- Merkin Institute of Transformative Technologies in Healthcare, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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40
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Prime time for base editing in the mitochondria. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:213. [PMID: 35794105 PMCID: PMC9259698 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01068-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Gene Therapy for Mitochondrial Diseases: Current Status and Future Perspective. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14061287. [PMID: 35745859 PMCID: PMC9231068 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14061287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases (MDs) are a group of severe genetic disorders caused by mutations in the nuclear or mitochondrial genome encoding proteins involved in the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system. MDs have a wide range of symptoms, ranging from organ-specific to multisystemic dysfunctions, with different clinical outcomes. The lack of natural history information, the limits of currently available preclinical models, and the wide range of phenotypic presentations seen in MD patients have all hampered the development of effective therapies. The growing number of pre-clinical and clinical trials over the last decade has shown that gene therapy is a viable precision medicine option for treating MD. However, several obstacles must be overcome, including vector design, targeted tissue tropism and efficient delivery, transgene expression, and immunotoxicity. This manuscript offers a comprehensive overview of the state of the art of gene therapy in MD, addressing the main challenges, the most feasible solutions, and the future perspectives of the field.
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Yin T, Luo J, Huang D, Li H. Current Progress of Mitochondrial Genome Editing by CRISPR. Front Physiol 2022; 13:883459. [PMID: 35586709 PMCID: PMC9108280 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.883459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yin
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Plant Epigenetics, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Devices and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Province, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Junjie Luo
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Danqiong Huang
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Plant Epigenetics, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hui Li
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Plant Epigenetics, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Hui Li,
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Barrera-Paez JD, Moraes CT. Mitochondrial genome engineering coming-of-age. Trends Genet 2022; 38:869-880. [PMID: 35599021 PMCID: PMC9283244 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The mitochondrial genome has been difficult to manipulate because it is shielded by the organelle double membranes, preventing efficient nucleic acid entry. Moreover, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) recombination is not a robust system in most species. This limitation has forced investigators to rely on naturally occurring alterations to study both mitochondrial function and pathobiology. Because most pathogenic mtDNA mutations are heteroplasmic, the development of specific nucleases has allowed us to selectively eliminate mutant species. Several 'protein only' gene-editing platforms have been successfully used for this purpose. More recently, a DNA double-strand cytidine deaminase has been identified and adapted to edit mtDNA. This enzyme was also used as a component to adapt a DNA single-strand deoxyadenosine deaminase to mtDNA editing. These are major advances in our ability to precisely alter the mtDNA in animal cells.
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