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Katz MA, Sawyer EM, Oriolt L, Kozlova A, Williams MC, Margolis SR, Johnson M, Bondy-Denomy J, Meeske AJ. Diverse viral cas genes antagonize CRISPR immunity. Nature 2024:10.1038/s41586-024-07923-x. [PMID: 39232173 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07923-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Prokaryotic CRISPR-Cas immunity is subverted by anti-CRISPRs (Acrs), which inhibit Cas protein activities when expressed during the phage lytic cycle or from resident prophages or plasmids1. Acrs often bind to specific cognate Cas proteins, and hence inhibition is typically limited to a single CRISPR-Cas subtype2. Furthermore, although acr genes are frequently organized together in phage-associated gene clusters3, how such inhibitors initially evolve has remained unclear. Here we investigated the Acr content and inhibition specificity of diverse Listeria isolates, which naturally harbour four CRISPR-Cas systems (types I-B, II-A, II-C and VI-A). We observed widespread antagonism of CRISPR, which we traced to 11 previously unknown and 4 known acr gene families encoded by endogenous mobile elements. Among these were two Acrs that possess sequence homology to type I-B Cas proteins, one of which assembles into a defective interference complex. Surprisingly, an additional type I-B Cas homologue did not affect type I immunity, but instead inhibited the RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR system by means of CRISPR RNA (crRNA) degradation. By probing viral sequence databases, we detected abundant orphan cas genes located within putative anti-defence gene clusters. Among them, we verified the activity of a particularly broad-spectrum cas3 homologue that inhibits type I-B, II-A and VI-A CRISPR immunity. Our observations provide direct evidence of Acr evolution by cas gene co-option, and new genes with potential for broad-spectrum control of genome editing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Katz
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Edith M Sawyer
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Luke Oriolt
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Albina Kozlova
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Shally R Margolis
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Matthew Johnson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Joseph Bondy-Denomy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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2
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Zhang L, Hou L, Cai HH, Sun B, Han DM, Chen FZ. Cascading CRISPR/Cas and Nanozyme for Enhanced Organic Photoelectrochemical Transistor Detection with Triple Signal Amplification. Anal Chem 2024; 96:14283-14290. [PMID: 39176473 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c03220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Innovative signal amplification and transduction play pivotal roles in bioanalysis. Herein, cascading CRISPR/Cas and the nanozyme are integrated with electronic amplification in an organic photoelectrochemical transistor (OPECT) to enable triple signal amplification, which is exemplified by the miRNA-triggered CRISPR/Cas13a system and polyoxometalate nanozyme for OPECT detection of miRNA-21. The CRISPR/Cas13a-enabled release of glucose oxidase could synergize with peroxidase-like SiW12 to induce catalytic precipitation on the photogate, inhibiting the interfacial mass transfer and thus the significant suppression of the channel current. The as-developed OPECT sensor demonstrates good sensitivity and selectivity for miRNA-21 detection, with a linear range from 1 fM to 10 nM and an ultralow detection limit of 0.53 fM. This study features the integration of bio- and nanoenzyme cascade and electronic triple signal amplification for OPECT detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- School of Science, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Lu Hou
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Hui-Hui Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Bing Sun
- School of Science, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - De-Man Han
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
| | - Feng-Zao Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
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3
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Zhang C, Chen F, Wang F, Xu H, Xue J, Li Z. Mechanisms for HNH-mediated target DNA cleavage in type I CRISPR-Cas systems. Mol Cell 2024; 84:3141-3153.e5. [PMID: 39047725 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.06.033] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The metagenome-derived type I-E and type I-F variant CRISPR-associated complex for antiviral defense (Cascade) complexes, fused with HNH domains, precisely cleave target DNA, representing recently identified genome editing tools. However, the underlying working mechanisms remain unknown. Here, structures of type I-FHNH and I-EHNH Cascade complexes at different states are reported. In type I-FHNH Cascade, Cas8fHNH loosely attaches to Cascade head and is adjacent to the 5' end of the target single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). Formation of the full R-loop drives the Cascade head to move outward, allowing Cas8fHNH to detach and rotate ∼150° to accommodate target ssDNA for cleavage. In type I-EHNH Cascade, Cas5eHNH domain is adjacent to the 5' end of the target ssDNA. Full crRNA-target pairing drives the lift of the Cascade head, widening the substrate channel for target ssDNA entrance. Altogether, these analyses into both complexes revealed that crRNA-guided positioning of target DNA and target DNA-induced HNH unlocking are two key factors for their site-specific cleavage of target DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chendi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China
| | - Fugen Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China
| | - Feng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China
| | - Haijiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China
| | - Jialin Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China
| | - Zhuang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China.
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Guo Z, Yuan M, Chai J. Mini review advantages and limitations of lytic phages compared with chemical antibiotics to combat bacterial infections. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34849. [PMID: 39148970 PMCID: PMC11324966 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34849] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The overuse of antibiotics has caused the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains, such as multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant, and pandrug-resistant bacteria. The treatment of infections caused by such strains has become a formidable challenge. In the post-antibiotic era, phage therapy is an attractive solution for this problem and some successful phase 1 and 2 studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of phage therapy over the last decade. It is a form of evolutionary medicine, phages exhibit immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. However, phage therapy is limited by factors, such as the narrow spectrum of host strains, the special pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in vivo, immune responses, and the development of phage resistance. The aim of this minireview was to compare the potencies of lytic phages and chemical antibiotics to treat bacterial infections. The advantages of phage therapy has fewer side effects, self-replication, evolution, bacterial biofilms eradication, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties compared with chemical antibiotics. Meanwhile, the disadvantages of phage therapy include the narrow spectrum of available host strains, the special pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in vivo, immune responses, and phage resistance hurdles. Recently, some researchers continue to make efforts to overcome these limitations of phage therapy. Phage therapy will be a welcome addition to the gamut of options available for treating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. We focus on the advantages and limitations of phage therapy with the intention of exploiting the advantages and overcoming the limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Mengyao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jiannan Chai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
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Shu X, Wang R, Li Z, Xue Q, Wang J, Liu J, Cheng F, Liu C, Zhao H, Hu C, Li J, Ouyang S, Li M. CRISPR-repressed toxin-antitoxin provides herd immunity against anti-CRISPR elements. Nat Chem Biol 2024:10.1038/s41589-024-01693-3. [PMID: 39075253 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01693-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Prokaryotic clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Cas systems are highly vulnerable to phage-encoded anti-CRISPR (Acr) factors. How CRISPR-Cas systems protect themselves remains unclear. Here we uncovered a broad-spectrum anti-anti-CRISPR strategy involving a phage-derived toxic protein. Transcription of this toxin is normally repressed by the CRISPR-Cas effector but is activated to halt cell division when the effector is inhibited by any anti-CRISPR proteins or RNAs. We showed that this abortive infection-like effect efficiently expels Acr elements from bacterial population. Furthermore, we exploited this anti-anti-CRISPR mechanism to develop a screening method for specific Acr candidates for a CRISPR-Cas system and successfully identified two distinct Acr proteins that enhance the binding of CRISPR effector to nontarget DNA. Our data highlight the broad-spectrum role of CRISPR-repressed toxins in counteracting various types of Acr factors. We propose that the regulatory function of CRISPR-Cas confers host cells herd immunity against Acr-encoding genetic invaders whether they are CRISPR targeted or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Shu
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhihua Li
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiong Xue
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiajun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Pathogenesis and Interventions of Fujian Province University, Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology of Fujian Province, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jingfang Liu
- Institutional Center for Shared Technologies and Facilities of Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Feiyue Cheng
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huiwei Zhao
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyi Hu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Precision Medicine Translational Research Programme (TRP), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Songying Ouyang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Pathogenesis and Interventions of Fujian Province University, Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology of Fujian Province, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Microbial Physiological & Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Yu T, Huang J, Huang X, Hao J, Zhang P, Guo T, Bao G, Li G. Sub-MIC antibiotics increased the fitness cost of CRISPR-Cas in Acinetobacter baumannii. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1381749. [PMID: 39011146 PMCID: PMC11246858 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1381749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The escalating prevalence of bacterial resistance, particularly multidrug-resistant bacteria like Acinetobacter baumannii, has become a significant global public health concern. The CRISPR-Cas system, a crucial defense mechanism in bacteria against foreign genetic elements, provides a competitive advantage. Type I-Fb and Type I-Fa are two subtypes of CRISPR-Cas systems that were found in A. baumannii, and the I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system regulates antibiotic resistance in A. baumannii. However, it is noteworthy that a majority of clinical isolates of A. baumannii lack or have incomplete CRISPR-Cas systems and most of them are multidrug-resistant. In light of this, our study aimed to examine the impact of antibiotic pressure on the fitness cost of the I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system in A. baumannii. Methods and Results In the study, we conducted in vitro competition experiments to investigate the influence of sub-minimum inhibitory concentration (sub-MIC) on the CRISPR-Cas systems' fitness cost in A. baumannii. We found that the fitness cost of the CRISPR-Cas system was increased under sub-MIC conditions. The expression of CRISPR-Cas-related genes was decreased, while the conjugation frequency was increased in AB43 under sub-MIC conditions. Through metabolomic analysis, we identified that sub-MIC conditions primarily affected energy metabolism pathways. In particular, we observed increased carbon metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, and intracellular ATP. Notably, the CRISPR-Cas system demonstrated resistance to the efflux pump-mediated resistance. Furthermore, the expression of efflux pump-related genes was increased under sub-MIC conditions. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system confers a significant competitive advantage in A. baumanni. However, under sub-MIC conditions, its function and the ability to inhibit the energy required for efflux pumps are reduced, resulting in an increased fitness cost and loss of competitive advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yu
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jiayuan Huang
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xinyue Huang
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jingchen Hao
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Pengyu Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Guo
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Guangyu Bao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Guocai Li
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis/Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Medical College/Guangling College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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7
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Saunier M, Fortier LC, Soutourina O. RNA-based regulation in bacteria-phage interactions. Anaerobe 2024; 87:102851. [PMID: 38583547 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2024.102851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Interactions of bacteria with their viruses named bacteriophages or phages shape the bacterial genome evolution and contribute to the diversity of phages. RNAs have emerged as key components of several anti-phage defense systems in bacteria including CRISPR-Cas, toxin-antitoxin and abortive infection. Frequent association with mobile genetic elements and interplay between different anti-phage defense systems are largely discussed. Newly discovered defense systems such as retrons and CBASS include RNA components. RNAs also perform their well-recognized regulatory roles in crossroad of phage-bacteria regulatory networks. Both regulatory and defensive function can be sometimes attributed to the same RNA molecules including CRISPR RNAs. This review presents the recent advances on the role of RNAs in the bacteria-phage interactions with a particular focus on clostridial species including an important human pathogen, Clostridioides difficile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Saunier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France; Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Louis-Charles Fortier
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Olga Soutourina
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France; Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France.
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8
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Ganguly C, Rostami S, Long K, Aribam SD, Rajan R. Unity among the diverse RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas interference mechanisms. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107295. [PMID: 38641067 PMCID: PMC11127173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107295] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR-associated) systems are adaptive immune systems that protect bacteria and archaea from invading mobile genetic elements (MGEs). The Cas protein-CRISPR RNA (crRNA) complex uses complementarity of the crRNA "guide" region to specifically recognize the invader genome. CRISPR effectors that perform targeted destruction of the foreign genome have emerged independently as multi-subunit protein complexes (Class 1 systems) and as single multi-domain proteins (Class 2). These different CRISPR-Cas systems can cleave RNA, DNA, and protein in an RNA-guided manner to eliminate the invader, and in some cases, they initiate programmed cell death/dormancy. The versatile mechanisms of the different CRISPR-Cas systems to target and destroy nucleic acids have been adapted to develop various programmable-RNA-guided tools and have revolutionized the development of fast, accurate, and accessible genomic applications. In this review, we present the structure and interference mechanisms of different CRISPR-Cas systems and an analysis of their unified features. The three types of Class 1 systems (I, III, and IV) have a conserved right-handed helical filamentous structure that provides a backbone for sequence-specific targeting while using unique proteins with distinct mechanisms to destroy the invader. Similarly, all three Class 2 types (II, V, and VI) have a bilobed architecture that binds the RNA-DNA/RNA hybrid and uses different nuclease domains to cleave invading MGEs. Additionally, we highlight the mechanistic similarities of CRISPR-Cas enzymes with other RNA-cleaving enzymes and briefly present the evolutionary routes of the different CRISPR-Cas systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chhandosee Ganguly
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Institute of Structural Biology, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Saadi Rostami
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Institute of Structural Biology, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Kole Long
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Institute of Structural Biology, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Swarmistha Devi Aribam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Institute of Structural Biology, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Rakhi Rajan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Price Family Foundation Institute of Structural Biology, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA.
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9
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Oshiro RT, Dunham DT, Seed KD. The vibriophage-encoded inhibitor OrbA abrogates BREX-mediated defense through the ATPase BrxC. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.09.593382. [PMID: 38766029 PMCID: PMC11100822 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.09.593382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Bacteria and phages are locked in a co-evolutionary arms race where each entity evolves mechanisms to restrict the proliferation of the other. Phage-encoded defense inhibitors have proven powerful tools to interrogate how defense systems function. A relatively common defense system is BREX (Bacteriophage exclusion); however, how BREX functions to restrict phage infection remains poorly understood. A BREX system encoded by the SXT integrative and conjugative element, Vch Ind5, was recently identified in Vibrio cholerae , the causative agent of the diarrheal disease cholera. The lytic phage ICP1 that co-circulates with V. cholerae encodes the BREX inhibitor OrbA, but how OrbA inhibits BREX is unclear. Here, we determine that OrbA inhibits BREX using a unique mechanism from known BREX inhibitors by directly binding to the BREX component BrxC. BrxC has a functional ATPase domain that, when mutated, not only disrupts BrxC function but also alters how BrxC multimerizes. Furthermore, we find that OrbA binding disrupts BrxC-BrxC interactions. We determine that OrbA cannot bind BrxC encoded by the distantly related BREX system encoded by the SXT Vch Ban9, and thus fails to inhibit this BREX system that also circulates in epidemic V. cholerae . Lastly, we find that homologs of the Vch Ind5 BrxC are more diverse than the homologs of the Vch Ban9 BrxC. These data provide new insight into the function of the BrxC ATPase and highlight how phage-encoded inhibitors can disrupt phage defense systems using different mechanisms. Importance With renewed interest in phage therapy to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens, understanding the mechanisms bacteria use to defend themselves against phages and the counter-strategies phages evolve to inhibit defenses is paramount. Bacteriophage exclusion (BREX) is a common defense system with few known inhibitors. Here, we probe how the vibriophage-encoded inhibitor OrbA inhibits the BREX system of Vibrio cholerae , the causative agent of the diarrheal disease cholera. By interrogating OrbA function, we have begun to understand the importance and function of a BREX component. Our results demonstrate the importance of identifying inhibitors against defense systems, as they are powerful tools for dissecting defense activity and can inform strategies to increase the efficacy of some phage therapies.
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10
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Huang Y, Zhang S, Wu M. S-adenosyl methionine-AMP opens another skylight of CRISPR system: discovering novel second messenger for bacterial antiviral immunity. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e522. [PMID: 38680519 PMCID: PMC11055957 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yongye Huang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning ProvinceCollege of Life and Health SciencesNortheastern UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Sihui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning ProvinceCollege of Life and Health SciencesNortheastern UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Min Wu
- Wenzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityWenzhouChina
- Wenzhou InstituteUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesWenzhouZhejiangChina
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11
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Mayo-Muñoz D, Pinilla-Redondo R, Camara-Wilpert S, Birkholz N, Fineran PC. Inhibitors of bacterial immune systems: discovery, mechanisms and applications. Nat Rev Genet 2024; 25:237-254. [PMID: 38291236 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00676-9] [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: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
To contend with the diversity and ubiquity of bacteriophages and other mobile genetic elements, bacteria have developed an arsenal of immune defence mechanisms. Bacterial defences include CRISPR-Cas, restriction-modification and a growing list of mechanistically diverse systems, which constitute the bacterial 'immune system'. As a response, bacteriophages and mobile genetic elements have evolved direct and indirect mechanisms to circumvent or block bacterial defence pathways and ensure successful infection. Recent advances in methodological and computational approaches, as well as the increasing availability of genome sequences, have boosted the discovery of direct inhibitors of bacterial defence systems. In this Review, we discuss methods for the discovery of direct inhibitors, their diverse mechanisms of action and perspectives on their emerging applications in biotechnology and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mayo-Muñoz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Genetics Otago, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rafael Pinilla-Redondo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
- Section of Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | - Nils Birkholz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Genetics Otago, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Bioprotection Aotearoa, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Peter C Fineran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
- Genetics Otago, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
- Bioprotection Aotearoa, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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12
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Putzeys L, Wicke L, Brandão A, Boon M, Pires DP, Azeredo J, Vogel J, Lavigne R, Gerovac M. Exploring the transcriptional landscape of phage-host interactions using novel high-throughput approaches. Curr Opin Microbiol 2024; 77:102419. [PMID: 38271748 PMCID: PMC10884466 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
In the last decade, powerful high-throughput sequencing approaches have emerged to analyse microbial transcriptomes at a global scale. However, to date, applications of these approaches to microbial viruses such as phages remain scarce. Tailoring these techniques to virus-infected bacteria promises to obtain a detailed picture of the underexplored RNA biology and molecular processes during infection. In addition, transcriptome study of stress and perturbations induced by phages in their infected bacterial hosts is likely to reveal new fundamental mechanisms of bacterial metabolism and gene regulation. Here, we provide references and blueprints to implement emerging transcriptomic approaches towards addressing transcriptome architecture, RNA-RNA and RNA-protein interactions, RNA modifications, structures and heterogeneity of transcription profiles in infected cells that will provide guides for future directions in phage-centric therapeutic applications and microbial synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Putzeys
- Department of Biosystems, Laboratory of Gene Technology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura Wicke
- Department of Biosystems, Laboratory of Gene Technology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Institute for Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ana Brandão
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Maarten Boon
- Department of Biosystems, Laboratory of Gene Technology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diana P Pires
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Joana Azeredo
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Jörg Vogel
- Institute for Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rob Lavigne
- Department of Biosystems, Laboratory of Gene Technology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Milan Gerovac
- Institute for Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany.
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13
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Jiang A, Liu Z, Lv X, Zhou C, Ran T, Tan Z. Prospects and Challenges of Bacteriophage Substitution for Antibiotics in Livestock and Poultry Production. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:28. [PMID: 38248459 PMCID: PMC10812986 DOI: 10.3390/biology13010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in the livestock and poultry industry has led to the development of multi-drug resistance in animal pathogens, and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in bacteria transfer from animals to humans through the consumption of animal products, posing a serious threat to human health. Therefore, the use of antibiotics in livestock production has been strictly controlled. As a result, bacteriophages have attracted increasing research interest as antibiotic alternatives, since they are natural invaders of bacteria. Numerous studies have shown that dietary bacteriophage supplementation could regulate intestinal microbial composition, enhance mucosal immunity and the physical barrier function of the intestinal tract, and play an important role in maintaining intestinal microecological stability and normal body development of animals. The effect of bacteriophages used in animals is influenced by factors such as species, dose, and duration. However, as a category of mobile genetic elements, the high frequency of gene exchange of bacteriophages also poses risks of transmitting ARGs among bacteria. Hence, we summarized the mechanism and efficacy of bacteriophage therapy, and highlighted the feasibility and challenges of bacteriophage utilization in farm animal production, aiming to provide a reference for the safe and effective application of bacteriophages as an antibiotic alternative in livestock and poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoyu Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Agri-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China; (A.J.); (Z.L.); (Z.T.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Zixin Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Agri-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China; (A.J.); (Z.L.); (Z.T.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Xiaokang Lv
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Bengbu 233100, China;
| | - Chuanshe Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory for Agri-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China; (A.J.); (Z.L.); (Z.T.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Tao Ran
- College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhiliang Tan
- CAS Key Laboratory for Agri-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Physiology and Metabolic Process, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China; (A.J.); (Z.L.); (Z.T.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
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14
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Tokuda M, Shintani M. Microbial evolution through horizontal gene transfer by mobile genetic elements. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14408. [PMID: 38226780 PMCID: PMC10832538 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Mobile genetic elements (MGEs) are crucial for horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in bacteria and facilitate their rapid evolution and adaptation. MGEs include plasmids, integrative and conjugative elements, transposons, insertion sequences and bacteriophages. Notably, the spread of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), which poses a serious threat to public health, is primarily attributable to HGT through MGEs. This mini-review aims to provide an overview of the mechanisms by which MGEs mediate HGT in microbes. Specifically, the behaviour of conjugative plasmids in different environments and conditions was discussed, and recent methodologies for tracing the dynamics of MGEs were summarised. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying HGT and the role of MGEs in bacterial evolution and adaptation is important to develop strategies to combat the spread of ARGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maho Tokuda
- Department of Environment and Energy Systems, Graduate School of Science and TechnologyShizuoka UniversityHamamatsuJapan
| | - Masaki Shintani
- Department of Environment and Energy Systems, Graduate School of Science and TechnologyShizuoka UniversityHamamatsuJapan
- Research Institute of Green Science and TechnologyShizuoka UniversityHamamatsuJapan
- Japan Collection of MicroorganismsRIKEN BioResource Research CenterIbarakiJapan
- Graduate School of Integrated Science and TechnologyShizuoka UniversityHamamatsuJapan
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15
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Parent KN. The phage fought the cells, and the phage won: a satellite symposium at the ASV 2023 annual meeting. J Virol 2023; 97:e0142023. [PMID: 37991366 PMCID: PMC10734453 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01420-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This satellite symposium was focused on the molecular arms race between bacteria and their predators, the bacteriophages: who's the friend and who's the foe? This Gem recounts highlights of the talks and presents food for thought and additional reflections on the current state of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin N. Parent
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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16
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Kraus C, Sontheimer EJ. Viruses use RNA decoys to thwart CRISPR defences. Nature 2023; 623:490-491. [PMID: 37853195 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-03133-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
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