1
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Osanai Y, Xing YL, Mochizuki S, Kobayashi K, Homman-Ludiye J, Cooray A, Poh J, Inutsuka A, Ohno N, Merson TD. 5' Transgenes drive leaky expression of 3' transgenes in Cre-inducible bi-cistronic vectors. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101288. [PMID: 39104576 PMCID: PMC11298883 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101288] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Molecular cloning techniques enabling contemporaneous expression of two or more protein-coding sequences provide an invaluable tool for understanding the molecular regulation of cellular functions. The Cre-lox system is used for inducing the expression of recombinant proteins encoded within a bi-/poly-cistronic cassette. However, leak expression of transgenes is often observed in the absence of Cre recombinase activity, compromising the utility of this approach. To investigate the mechanism of leak expression, we generated Cre-inducible bi-cistronic vectors to monitor the expression of transgenes positioned either 5' or 3' of a 2A peptide or internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) sequence. Cells transfected with these bi-cistronic vectors exhibited Cre-independent leak expression specifically of transgenes positioned 3' of the 2A peptide or IRES sequence. Similarly, AAV-FLEX vectors encoding bi-cistronic cassettes or fusion proteins revealed the selective Cre-independent leak expression of transgenes positioned at the 3' end of the open reading frame. Our data demonstrate that 5' transgenes confer promoter-like activity that drives the expression of 3' transgenes. An additional lox-STOP-lox cassette between the 2A sequence and 3' transgene dramatically decreased Cre-independent transgene expression. Our findings highlight the need for appropriate experimental controls when using Cre-inducible bi-/poly-cistronic constructs and inform improved design of vectors for more tightly regulated inducible transgene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuyuki Osanai
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, 15 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, Division of Histology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0431, Japan
| | - Yao Lulu Xing
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, 15 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Shinya Mochizuki
- Department of Anatomy, Bioimaging and Neuro-cell Science, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0431, Japan
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8585, Japan
- The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Shonan Village, Hayama, Kanagawa 240-0193, Japan
| | - Jihane Homman-Ludiye
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, 15 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Amali Cooray
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, 15 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Jasmine Poh
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, 15 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Ayumu Inutsuka
- Division of Brain and Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0431, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Ohno
- Department of Anatomy, Division of Histology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0431, Japan
- Division of Ultrastructure Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8585, Japan
| | - Tobias D. Merson
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, 15 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Oligodendroglial Interactions Group, Systems Neurodevelopment Laboratory, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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2
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Puglisi M, Lao CL, Wani G, Masserdotti G, Bocchi R, Götz M. Comparing Viral Vectors and Fate Mapping Approaches for Astrocyte-to-Neuron Reprogramming in the Injured Mouse Cerebral Cortex. Cells 2024; 13:1408. [PMID: 39272980 DOI: 10.3390/cells13171408] [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: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Direct neuronal reprogramming is a promising approach to replace neurons lost due to disease via the conversion of endogenous glia reacting to brain injury into neurons. However, it is essential to demonstrate that the newly generated neurons originate from glial cells and/or show that they are not pre-existing endogenous neurons. Here, we use controls for both requirements while comparing two viral vector systems (Mo-MLVs and AAVs) for the expression of the same neurogenic factor, the phosphorylation-resistant form of Neurogenin2. Our results show that Mo-MLVs targeting proliferating glial cells after traumatic brain injury reliably convert astrocytes into neurons, as assessed by genetic fate mapping of astrocytes. Conversely, expressing the same neurogenic factor in a flexed AAV system results in artefactual labelling of endogenous neurons fatemapped by birthdating in development that are negative for the genetic fate mapping marker induced in astrocytes. These results are further corroborated by chronic live in vivo imaging. Taken together, the phosphorylation-resistant form of Neurogenin2 is more efficient in reprogramming reactive glia into neurons than its wildtype counterpart in vivo using retroviral vectors (Mo-MLVs) targeting proliferating glia. Conversely, AAV-mediated expression generates artefacts and is not sufficient to achieve fate conversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Puglisi
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), 85764 Nuremberg, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neuroscience, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Chu Lan Lao
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), 85764 Nuremberg, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Gulzar Wani
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), 85764 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Giacomo Masserdotti
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), 85764 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Riccardo Bocchi
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), 85764 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Magdalena Götz
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH), 85764 Nuremberg, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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3
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Machold R, Rudy B. Genetic approaches to elucidating cortical and hippocampal GABAergic interneuron diversity. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1414955. [PMID: 39113758 PMCID: PMC11303334 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1414955] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
GABAergic interneurons (INs) in the mammalian forebrain represent a diverse population of cells that provide specialized forms of local inhibition to regulate neural circuit activity. Over the last few decades, the development of a palette of genetic tools along with the generation of single-cell transcriptomic data has begun to reveal the molecular basis of IN diversity, thereby providing deep insights into how different IN subtypes function in the forebrain. In this review, we outline the emerging picture of cortical and hippocampal IN speciation as defined by transcriptomics and developmental origin and summarize the genetic strategies that have been utilized to target specific IN subtypes, along with the technical considerations inherent to each approach. Collectively, these methods have greatly facilitated our understanding of how IN subtypes regulate forebrain circuitry via cell type and compartment-specific inhibition and thus have illuminated a path toward potential therapeutic interventions for a variety of neurocognitive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Machold
- Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bernardo Rudy
- Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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4
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Hughes AC, Pittman BG, Xu B, Gammons JW, Webb CM, Nolen HG, Chapman P, Bikoff JB, Schwarz LA. A single-vector intersectional AAV strategy for interrogating cellular diversity and brain function. Nat Neurosci 2024; 27:1400-1410. [PMID: 38802592 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01659-7] [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: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
As discovery of cellular diversity in the brain accelerates, so does the need for tools that target cells based on multiple features. Here we developed Conditional Viral Expression by Ribozyme Guided Degradation (ConVERGD), an adeno-associated virus-based, single-construct, intersectional targeting strategy that combines a self-cleaving ribozyme with traditional FLEx switches to deliver molecular cargo to specific neuronal subtypes. ConVERGD offers benefits over existing intersectional expression platforms, such as expanded intersectional targeting with up to five recombinase-based features, accommodation of larger and more complex payloads and a vector that is easy to modify for rapid toolkit expansion. In the present report we employed ConVERGD to characterize an unexplored subpopulation of norepinephrine (NE)-producing neurons within the rodent locus coeruleus that co-express the endogenous opioid gene prodynorphin (Pdyn). These studies showcase ConVERGD as a versatile tool for targeting diverse cell types and reveal Pdyn-expressing NE+ locus coeruleus neurons as a small neuronal subpopulation capable of driving anxiogenic behavioral responses in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex C Hughes
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Human Cell Types, Allen Institute for Brain Science, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Brittany G Pittman
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Beisi Xu
- Center for Applied Bioinformatics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jesse W Gammons
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Charis M Webb
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hunter G Nolen
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Phillip Chapman
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jay B Bikoff
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Lindsay A Schwarz
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.
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5
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Rangel Guerrero DK, Balueva K, Barayeu U, Baracskay P, Gridchyn I, Nardin M, Roth CN, Wulff P, Csicsvari J. Hippocampal cholecystokinin-expressing interneurons regulate temporal coding and contextual learning. Neuron 2024; 112:2045-2061.e10. [PMID: 38636524 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.03.019] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Cholecystokinin-expressing interneurons (CCKIs) are hypothesized to shape pyramidal cell-firing patterns and regulate network oscillations and related network state transitions. To directly probe their role in the CA1 region, we silenced their activity using optogenetic and chemogenetic tools in mice. Opto-tagged CCKIs revealed a heterogeneous population, and their optogenetic silencing triggered wide disinhibitory network changes affecting both pyramidal cells and other interneurons. CCKI silencing enhanced pyramidal cell burst firing and altered the temporal coding of place cells: theta phase precession was disrupted, whereas sequence reactivation was enhanced. Chemogenetic CCKI silencing did not alter the acquisition of spatial reference memories on the Morris water maze but enhanced the recall of contextual fear memories and enabled selective recall when similar environments were tested. This work suggests the key involvement of CCKIs in the control of place-cell temporal coding and the formation of contextual memories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dámaris K Rangel Guerrero
- Information and Systems Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria.
| | - Kira Balueva
- Institute of Physiology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Uladzislau Barayeu
- Information and Systems Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Peter Baracskay
- Information and Systems Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Igor Gridchyn
- Information and Systems Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Michele Nardin
- Information and Systems Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Chiara Nina Roth
- Information and Systems Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Peer Wulff
- Institute of Physiology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Jozsef Csicsvari
- Information and Systems Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria.
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6
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Kuo CC, McCall JG. Neural circuit-selective, multiplexed pharmacological targeting of prefrontal cortex-projecting locus coeruleus neurons drives antinociception. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.08.598059. [PMID: 38895281 PMCID: PMC11185789 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.08.598059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Selective manipulation of neural circuits using optogenetics and chemogenetics holds great translational potential but requires genetic access to neurons. Here, we demonstrate a general framework for identifying genetic tool-independent, pharmacological strategies for neural circuit-selective modulation. We developed an economically accessible calcium imaging-based approach for large-scale pharmacological scans of endogenous receptor-mediated neural activity. As a testbed for this approach, we used the mouse locus coeruleus due to the combination of its widespread, modular efferent neural circuitry and its wide variety of endogenously expressed GPCRs. Using machine learning-based action potential deconvolution and retrograde tracing, we identified an agonist cocktail that selectively inhibits medial prefrontal cortex-projecting locus coeruleus neurons. In vivo, this cocktail produces synergistic antinociception, consistent with selective pharmacological blunting of this neural circuit. This framework has broad utility for selective targeting of other neural circuits under different physiological and pathological states, facilitating non-genetic translational applications arising from cell type-selective discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Washington University Pain Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jordan G. McCall
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Washington University Pain Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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7
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Suriano CM, Kumar N, Verpeut JL, Ma J, Jung C, Dunn CE, Carvajal BV, Nguyen AV, Boulanger LM. An innate immune response to adeno-associated virus genomes decreases cortical dendritic complexity and disrupts synaptic transmission. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1721-1738. [PMID: 38566414 PMCID: PMC11184335 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.03.036] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) allow rapid and efficient gene delivery to the nervous system, are widely used in neuroscience research, and are the basis of FDA-approved neuron-targeting gene therapies. Here we find that an innate immune response to the AAV genome reduces dendritic length and complexity and disrupts synaptic transmission in mouse somatosensory cortex. Dendritic loss is apparent 3 weeks after injection of experimentally relevant viral titers, is not restricted to a particular capsid serotype, transgene, promoter, or production facility, and cannot be explained by responses to surgery or transgene expression. AAV-associated dendritic loss is accompanied by a decrease in the frequency and amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents and an increase in the proportion of GluA2-lacking, calcium-permeable AMPA receptors. The AAV genome is rich in unmethylated CpG DNA, which is recognized by the innate immunoreceptor Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), and acutely blocking TLR9 preserves dendritic complexity and AMPA receptor subunit composition in AAV-injected mice. These results reveal unexpected impacts of an immune response to the AAV genome on neuronal structure and function and identify approaches to improve the safety and efficacy of AAV-mediated gene delivery in the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos M Suriano
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Biology, Montclair State University, 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA; Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Montclair State University, 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA.
| | - Neerav Kumar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Jessica L Verpeut
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Jie Ma
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Caroline Jung
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Connor E Dunn
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Brigett V Carvajal
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Ai Vy Nguyen
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Lisa M Boulanger
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA.
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8
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Li W, Feng SL, Herrschaft L, Samulski RJ, Li C. Rationally engineered novel AAV capsids for intra-articular gene delivery. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101211. [PMID: 38435130 PMCID: PMC10907215 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Intra-articular adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy has been explored as a potential strategy for joint diseases. However, concerns of low transduction efficacy, off-target expression, and neutralizing antibodies (Nabs) still need to be addressed. In this study, we demonstrated that AAV6 was the best serotype to transduce joints after screening serotypes 1 to 9. To develop a more effective AAV vector, a set of novel AAV capsids were rationally engineered. The mutant AAV62 created by swapping variable region I (VRI) of AAV2 into AAV6 induced a higher transduction efficiency per AAV genome copy number. To further investigate the roles of specific amino acids in the transduction of AAV62 and AAV6, we found out that AAV6D with the deletion of threonine at residue 265 induced a 2-fold higher transduction than AAV6, while the transduction efficiency from AAV6M with the mutation of alanine to glutamine at residue 263 was 10-fold lower. AAV6D efficiently transduced both synoviocytes and chondrocytes with low AAV genome copy numbers in other tissues and less Nab formation. This study demonstrates that novel AAV mutants with rational engineering may enhance joint transduction after intra-articular administration in mice, with the potential to evade AAV Nabs and minimize off-target effects in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Li
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Division of Oral and Craniofacial Biomedicine, University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Susi Liu Feng
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Lizette Herrschaft
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - R. Jude Samulski
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Chengwen Li
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27510, USA
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9
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Mahmoudi N, Wang Y, Moriarty N, Ahmed NY, Dehorter N, Lisowski L, Harvey AR, Parish CL, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR. Neuronal Replenishment via Hydrogel-Rationed Delivery of Reprogramming Factors. ACS NANO 2024; 18:3597-3613. [PMID: 38221746 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c11337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The central nervous system's limited capacity for regeneration often leads to permanent neuronal loss following injury. Reprogramming resident reactive astrocytes into induced neurons at the site of injury is a promising strategy for neural repair, but challenges persist in stabilizing and accurately targeting viral vectors for transgene expression. In this study, we employed a bioinspired self-assembling peptide (SAP) hydrogel for the precise and controlled release of a hybrid adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector, AAVDJ, carrying the NeuroD1 neural reprogramming transgene. This method effectively mitigates the issues of high viral dosage at the target site, off-target delivery, and immunogenic reactions, enhancing the vector's targeting and reprogramming efficiency. In vitro, this vector successfully induced neuron formation, as confirmed by morphological, histochemical, and electrophysiological analyses. In vivo, SAP-mediated delivery of AAVDJ-NeuroD1 facilitated the trans-differentiation of reactive host astrocytes into induced neurons, concurrently reducing glial scarring. Our findings introduce a safe and effective method for treating central nervous system injuries, marking a significant advancement in regenerative neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Mahmoudi
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, the John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU College of Engineering & Computer Science, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Yi Wang
- The Graeme Clark Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Niamh Moriarty
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Noorya Y Ahmed
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Nathalie Dehorter
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Leszek Lisowski
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Vector and Genome Engineering Facility, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Australian Genome Therapeutics Centre, Children's Medical Research Institute and Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alan R Harvey
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, and Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Clare L Parish
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Richard J Williams
- The Graeme Clark Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- IMPACT, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
| | - David R Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, the John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Graeme Clark Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
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10
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Matsushita N, Kato S, Nishizawa K, Sugawara M, Takeuchi K, Miyasaka Y, Mashimo T, Kobayashi K. Protocol for highly selective transgene expression through the flip-excision switch system by using a unilateral spacer sequence in rodents. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102667. [PMID: 37906596 PMCID: PMC10622305 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102667] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a protocol to induce Cre-dependent transgene expression in specific cell types in the rat brain, suppressing a leak expression in off-target cells, by using a flip-excision switch system with a unilateral spacer sequence. We describe steps for construction of transfer plasmids, preparation of adeno-associated viral vectors, intracranial injection, and detection of transgene expression. Our protocol provides a useful strategy for a better understanding of the structure and function of specific cell types in the complex neural circuit. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Matsushita et al.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuki Matsushita
- Division of Laboratory Animal Research, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Aichi 480-1195, Japan.
| | - Shigeki Kato
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kayo Nishizawa
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Masateru Sugawara
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kosei Takeuchi
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Aichi 480-1195, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Miyasaka
- Laboratory of Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Experimental Animal Sciences, Osaka University Medical School, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomoji Mashimo
- Division of Animal Genetics, Laboratory Animal Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Kazuto Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan.
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11
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Patiño M, Lagos WN, Patne NS, Miyazaki PA, Bhamidipati SK, Collman F, Callaway EM. Postsynaptic cell type and synaptic distance do not determine efficiency of monosynaptic rabies virus spread measured at synaptic resolution. eLife 2023; 12:e89297. [PMID: 38096019 PMCID: PMC10721217 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Retrograde monosynaptic tracing using glycoprotein-deleted rabies virus is an important component of the toolkit for investigation of neural circuit structure and connectivity. It allows for the identification of first-order presynaptic connections to cell populations of interest across both the central and peripheral nervous system, helping to decipher the complex connectivity patterns of neural networks that give rise to brain function. Despite its utility, the factors that influence the probability of transsynaptic rabies spread are not well understood. While it is well established that expression levels of rabies glycoprotein used to trans-complement G-deleted rabies can result in large changes in numbers of inputs labeled per starter cell (convergence index [CI]), it is not known how typical values of CI relate to the proportions of synaptic contacts or input neurons labeled. And it is not known whether inputs to different cell types, or synaptic contacts that are more proximal or distal to the cell body, are labeled with different probabilities. Here, we use a new rabies virus construct that allows for the simultaneous labeling of pre- and postsynaptic specializations to quantify the proportion of synaptic contacts labeled in mouse primary visual cortex. We demonstrate that with typical conditions about 40% of first-order presynaptic excitatory synapses to cortical excitatory and inhibitory neurons are labeled. We show that using matched tracing conditions there are similar proportions of labeled contacts onto L4 excitatory pyramidal, somatostatin (Sst) inhibitory, and vasoactive intestinal peptide (Vip) starter cell types. Furthermore, we find no difference in the proportions of labeled excitatory contacts onto postsynaptic sites at different subcellular locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maribel Patiño
- Systems Neurobiology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San DiegoLa JollaUnited States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, San DiegoLa JollaUnited States
| | - Willian N Lagos
- Systems Neurobiology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
| | - Neelakshi S Patne
- Systems Neurobiology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
| | - Paula A Miyazaki
- Systems Neurobiology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
| | - Sai Krishna Bhamidipati
- Systems Neurobiology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
| | | | - Edward M Callaway
- Systems Neurobiology Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
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12
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Middleton SJ, Hu H, Perez-Sanchez J, Zuberi S, McGrath Williams J, Weir GA, Bennett DL. GluCl.Cre ON enables selective inhibition of molecularly defined pain circuits. Pain 2023; 164:2780-2791. [PMID: 37366588 PMCID: PMC10652717 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002976] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Insight into nociceptive circuits will ultimately build our understanding of pain processing and aid the development of analgesic strategies. Neural circuit analysis has been advanced greatly by the development of optogenetic and chemogenetic tools, which have allowed function to be ascribed to discrete neuronal populations. Neurons of the dorsal root ganglion, which include nociceptors, have proved challenging targets for chemogenetic manipulation given specific confounds with commonly used DREADD technology. We have developed a cre/lox dependant version of the engineered glutamate-gated chloride channel (GluCl) to restrict and direct its expression to molecularly defined neuronal populations. We have generated GluCl.Cre ON that selectively renders neurons expressing cre-recombinase susceptible to agonist-induced silencing. We have functionally validated our tool in multiple systems in vitro, and subsequently generated viral vectors and tested its applicability in vivo. Using Nav1.8 Cre mice to restrict AAV-GluCl.Cre ON to nociceptors, we demonstrate effective silencing of electrical activity in vivo and concomitant hyposensitivity to noxious thermal and noxious mechanical pain, whereas light touch and motor function remained intact. We also demonstrated that our strategy can effectively silence inflammatory-like pain in a chemical pain model. Collectively, we have generated a novel tool that can be used to selectively silence defined neuronal circuits in vitro and in vivo. We believe that this addition to the chemogenetic tool box will facilitate further understanding of pain circuits and guide future therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J. Middleton
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Huimin Hu
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jimena Perez-Sanchez
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sana Zuberi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Greg A. Weir
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - David L. Bennett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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13
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Pavlou M, Reh TA. Cell-Based Therapies: Strategies for Regeneration. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2023; 13:a041306. [PMID: 36878647 PMCID: PMC10626262 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041306] [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: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The neural retina of mammals, like most of the rest of the central nervous system, does not regenerate new neurons after they are lost through damage or disease. The ability of nonmammalian vertebrates, like fish and amphibians, is remarkable, and lessons learned over the last 20 years have revealed some of the mechanisms underlying this potential. This knowledge has recently been applied to mammals to develop methods that can stimulate regeneration in mice. In this review, we highlight the progress in this area, and propose a "wish list" of how the clinical implementation of regenerative strategies could be applicable to various human retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pavlou
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington School of Medicine, Institute of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
| | - Thomas A Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington School of Medicine, Institute of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
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14
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Brimble MA, Winston SM, Davidoff AM. Stowaways in the cargo: Contaminating nucleic acids in rAAV preparations for gene therapy. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2826-2838. [PMID: 37533254 PMCID: PMC10556190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant AAV (rAAV) is the most used delivery vector for clinical gene therapy. However, many issues must be addressed before safer and more widespread implementation can be achieved. At present, efficacies are highly variable across trials and patients, and immune responses after treatment are widely reported. Although rAAV is capable of directly delivering gene-encoded therapeutic sequences, increased scrutiny of viral preparations for translational use have revealed contaminating nucleic acid species packaged within rAAV preparations. The introduction of non-therapeutic nucleic acids into a recipient patient adds to the risk burden, immunogenic or otherwise, of rAAV therapies. DNA from incomplete expression cassettes, portions of plasmids or vectors used to facilitate viral replication, and production cell line genomes all have the potential to be packaged within rAAV. Here, we review what is currently known about the profile, abundance, and post-treatment consequences of nucleic acid impurities within rAAV and cover strategies that have been developed to improve rAAV purity. Furthering our understanding of these aberrantly packaged DNA species will help to ensure the continued safe implementation of rAAV therapies as the number of patients treated with this modality increases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Brimble
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | - Stephen M Winston
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA; St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Andrew M Davidoff
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
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15
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van Bruggen R, Patel ZH, Wang M, Suk TR, Rousseaux MWC, Tan Q. A Versatile Strategy for Genetic Manipulation of Cajal-Retzius Cells in the Adult Mouse Hippocampus. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0054-23.2023. [PMID: 37775311 PMCID: PMC10585607 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0054-23.2023] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cajal-Retzius (CR) cells are transient neurons with long-lasting effects on the architecture and circuitry of the neocortex and hippocampus. Contrary to the prevailing assumption that CR cells completely disappear in rodents shortly after birth, a substantial portion of these cells persist in the hippocampus throughout adulthood. The role of these surviving CR cells in the adult hippocampus is largely unknown, partly because of the paucity of suitable tools to dissect their functions in the adult versus the embryonic brain. Here, we show that genetic crosses of the ΔNp73-Cre mouse line, widely used to target CR cells, to reporter mice induce reporter expression not only in CR cells, but also progressively in postnatal dentate gyrus granule neurons. Such a lack of specificity may confound studies of CR cell function in the adult hippocampus. To overcome this, we devise a method that not only leverages the temporary CR cell-targeting specificity of the ΔNp73-Cre mice before the first postnatal week, but also capitalizes on the simplicity and effectiveness of freehand neonatal intracerebroventricular injection of adeno-associated virus. We achieve robust Cre-mediated recombination that remains largely restricted to hippocampal CR cells from early postnatal age to adulthood. We further demonstrate the utility of this method to manipulate neuronal activity of CR cells in the adult hippocampus. This versatile and scalable strategy will facilitate experiments of CR cell-specific gene knockdown and/or overexpression, lineage tracing, and neural activity modulation in the postnatal and adult brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah van Bruggen
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Zain H Patel
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Mi Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Terry R Suk
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Eric Poulin Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Maxime W C Rousseaux
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Eric Poulin Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Qiumin Tan
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2H7, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada
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16
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Fu XD, Mobley WC. Therapeutic Potential of PTB Inhibition Through Converting Glial Cells to Neurons in the Brain. Annu Rev Neurosci 2023; 46:145-165. [PMID: 37428606 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-083022-113120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Cell replacement therapy represents a promising approach for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Contrary to the common addition strategy to generate new neurons from glia by overexpressing a lineage-specific transcription factor(s), a recent study introduced a subtraction strategy by depleting a single RNA-binding protein, Ptbp1, to convert astroglia to neurons not only in vitro but also in the brain. Given its simplicity, multiple groups have attempted to validate and extend this attractive approach but have met with difficulty in lineage tracing newly induced neurons from mature astrocytes, raising the possibility of neuronal leakage as an alternative explanation for apparent astrocyte-to-neuron conversion. This review focuses on the debate over this critical issue. Importantly, multiple lines of evidence suggest that Ptbp1 depletion can convert a selective subpopulation of glial cells into neurons and, via this and other mechanisms, reverse deficits in a Parkinson's disease model, emphasizing the importance of future efforts in exploring this therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Dong Fu
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China;
| | - William C Mobley
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA;
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17
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Zengel J, Wang YX, Seo JW, Ning K, Hamilton JN, Wu B, Raie M, Holbrook C, Su S, Clements DR, Pillay S, Puschnik AS, Winslow MM, Idoyaga J, Nagamine CM, Sun Y, Mahajan VB, Ferrara KW, Blau HM, Carette JE. Hardwiring tissue-specific AAV transduction in mice through engineered receptor expression. Nat Methods 2023; 20:1070-1081. [PMID: 37291262 PMCID: PMC10333121 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-023-01896-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The development of transgenic mouse models that express genes of interest in specific cell types has transformed our understanding of basic biology and disease. However, generating these models is time- and resource-intensive. Here we describe a model system, SELective Expression and Controlled Transduction In Vivo (SELECTIV), that enables efficient and specific expression of transgenes by coupling adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors with Cre-inducible overexpression of the multi-serotype AAV receptor, AAVR. We demonstrate that transgenic AAVR overexpression greatly increases the efficiency of transduction of many diverse cell types, including muscle stem cells, which are normally refractory to AAV transduction. Superior specificity is achieved by combining Cre-mediated AAVR overexpression with whole-body knockout of endogenous Aavr, which is demonstrated in heart cardiomyocytes, liver hepatocytes and cholinergic neurons. The enhanced efficacy and exquisite specificity of SELECTIV has broad utility in development of new mouse model systems and expands the use of AAV for gene delivery in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Zengel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yu Xin Wang
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Genetic Disorders and Aging, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jai Woong Seo
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ke Ning
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James N Hamilton
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bo Wu
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marina Raie
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Colin Holbrook
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shiqi Su
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Derek R Clements
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Immunology Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sirika Pillay
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Andreas S Puschnik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Monte M Winslow
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Juliana Idoyaga
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Immunology Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Claude M Nagamine
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Palo Alto Veterans Administration, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Vinit B Mahajan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Palo Alto Veterans Administration, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Katherine W Ferrara
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Helen M Blau
- Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jan E Carette
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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18
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Gu X, Zhang YZ, O'Malley JJ, De Preter CC, Penzo M, Hoon MA. Neurons in the caudal ventrolateral medulla mediate descending pain control. Nat Neurosci 2023; 26:594-605. [PMID: 36894654 PMCID: PMC11114367 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-023-01268-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Supraspinal brain regions modify nociceptive signals in response to various stressors including stimuli that elevate pain thresholds. The medulla oblongata has previously been implicated in this type of pain control, but the neurons and molecular circuits involved have remained elusive. Here we identify catecholaminergic neurons in the caudal ventrolateral medulla that are activated by noxious stimuli in mice. Upon activation, these neurons produce bilateral feed-forward inhibition that attenuates nociceptive responses through a pathway involving the locus coeruleus and norepinephrine in the spinal cord. This pathway is sufficient to attenuate injury-induced heat allodynia and is required for counter-stimulus induced analgesia to noxious heat. Our findings define a component of the pain modulatory system that regulates nociceptive responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinglong Gu
- Molecular Genetics Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yizhen Z Zhang
- Molecular Genetics Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - John J O'Malley
- Unit on the Neurobiology of Affective Memory, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Caitlynn C De Preter
- Molecular Genetics Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mario Penzo
- Unit on the Neurobiology of Affective Memory, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark A Hoon
- Molecular Genetics Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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19
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Matsushita N, Kato S, Nishizawa K, Sugawara M, Takeuchi K, Miyasaka Y, Mashimo T, Kobayashi K. Highly selective transgene expression through the flip-excision switch system by using a unilateral spacer sequence. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2023; 3:100393. [PMID: 36936079 PMCID: PMC10014282 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The flip-excision switch (FLEX) system with an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector allows expression of transgenes in specific cell populations having Cre recombinase. A significant issue with this system is non-specific expression of transgenes in tissues after vector injection. We show here that Cre-independent recombination events in the AAV genome carrying the FLEX sequence occur mainly during the production of viral vectors in packaging cells, which results in transgene expression in off-target populations. Introduction of a relatively longer nucleotide sequence between two recognition sites at the unilateral side of the transgene cassette, termed a unilateral spacer sequence (USS), is useful to suppress the recombination in the viral genome, leading to the protection of non-specific transgene expression with enhanced gene expression selectivity. Our FLEX/USS system offers a powerful strategy for highly specific Cre-dependent transgene expression, aiming at various applications for structural and functional analyses of target cell populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuki Matsushita
- Division of Laboratory Animal Research, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1195, Japan
| | - Shigeki Kato
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kayo Nishizawa
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Masateru Sugawara
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kosei Takeuchi
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1195, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Miyasaka
- Laboratory of Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Experimental Animal Sciences, Osaka University Medical School, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomoji Mashimo
- Division of Animal Genetics, Laboratory Animal Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Kazuto Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
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20
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Coronel J, Yu J, Pilli N, Kane MA, Amengual J. The conversion of β-carotene to vitamin A in adipocytes drives the anti-obesogenic effects of β-carotene in mice. Mol Metab 2022; 66:101640. [PMID: 36400405 PMCID: PMC9707038 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2022.101640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The β-carotene oxygenase 1 (BCO1) is the enzyme responsible for the cleavage of β-carotene to retinal, the first intermediate in vitamin A formation. Preclinical studies suggest that BCO1 expression is required for dietary β-carotene to affect lipid metabolism. The goal of this study was to generate a gene therapy strategy that over-expresses BCO1 in the adipose tissue and utilizes the β-carotene stored in adipocytes to produce vitamin A and reduce obesity. METHODS We generated a novel adipose-tissue-specific, adeno-associated vector to over-express BCO1 (AT-AAV-BCO1) in murine adipocytes. We tested this vector using a unique model to achieve β-carotene accumulation in the adipose tissue, in which Bco1-/- mice were fed β-carotene. An AT-AAV over-expressing green fluorescent protein was utilized as control. We evaluated the adequate delivery route and optimized cellular and organ specificity, dosage, and exposure of our vectors. We also employed morphometric analyses to evaluate the effect of BCO1 expression in adiposity, as well as HPLC and mass spectrometry to quantify β-carotene and retinoids in tissues, including retinoic acid. RESULTS AT-AAV-BCO1 infusions in the adipose tissue of the mice resulted in the production of retinoic acid, a vitamin A metabolite with strong effects on gene regulation. AT-AAV-BCO1 treatment also reduced adipose tissue size and adipocyte area by 35% and 30%, respectively. These effects were sex-specific, highlighting the complexity of vitamin A metabolism in mammals. CONCLUSIONS The over-expression of BCO1 through delivery of an AT-AAV-BCO1 leads to the conversion of β-carotene to vitamin A in adipocytes, which subsequently results in reduction of adiposity. These studies highlight for the first time the potential of adipose tissue β-carotene as a target for BCO1 over-expression in the reduction of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johana Coronel
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jianshi Yu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nageswara Pilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maureen A. Kane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jaume Amengual
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA,Corresponding author. Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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21
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Wang LL, Zhang CL. In vivo glia-to-neuron conversion: pitfalls and solutions. Dev Neurobiol 2022; 82:367-374. [PMID: 35535734 PMCID: PMC9337910 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Neuron loss and disruption of neural circuits are associated with many neurological conditions. A key question is how to rebuild neural circuits for functional improvements. In vivo glia-to-neuron (GtN) conversion emerges as a potential solution for regeneration-based therapeutics. This approach takes advantage of the regenerative ability of resident glial cells to produce new neurons through cell fate reprogramming. Significant progress has been made over the years in this emerging field. However, inappropriate analysis often leads to misleading conclusions that create confusion and hype. In this perspective, we point out the most salient pitfalls associated with some recent studies and provide solutions to prevent them in the future. The goal is to foster healthy development of this promising field and lay a solid cellular foundation for future regeneration-based medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei-Lei Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Chun-Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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22
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Pouchelon G, Vergara J, McMahon J, Gorissen BL, Lin JD, Vormstein-Schneider D, Niehaus JL, Burbridge TJ, Wester JC, Sherer M, Fernandez-Otero M, Allaway KC, Pelkey K, Chittajallu R, McBain CJ, Fan M, Nasse JS, Wildenberg GA, Fishell G, Dimidschstein J. A versatile viral toolkit for functional discovery in the nervous system. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100225. [PMID: 35784651 PMCID: PMC9243523 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The ability to precisely control transgene expression is essential for basic research and clinical applications. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are non-pathogenic and can be used to drive stable expression in virtually any tissue, cell type, or species, but their limited genomic payload results in a trade-off between the transgenes that can be incorporated and the complexity of the regulatory elements controlling their expression. Resolving these competing imperatives in complex experiments inevitably results in compromises. Here, we assemble an optimized viral toolkit (VTK) that addresses these limitations and allows for efficient combinatorial targeting of cell types. Moreover, their modular design explicitly enables further refinements. We achieve this in compact vectors by integrating structural improvements of AAV vectors with innovative molecular tools. We illustrate the potential of this approach through a systematic demonstration of their utility for targeting cell types and querying their biology using a wide array of genetically encoded tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Pouchelon
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Josselyn Vergara
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Justin McMahon
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Bram L. Gorissen
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jessica D. Lin
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | | | | | - Timothy J. Burbridge
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jason C. Wester
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mia Sherer
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Marian Fernandez-Otero
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kathryn C. Allaway
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kenneth Pelkey
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ramesh Chittajallu
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Chris J. McBain
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | | | | | - Gregg A. Wildenberg
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Gordon Fishell
- Broad Institute, Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Blavatnik Institute, Neurobiology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Jacobsen RI, Nair RR, Obenhaus HA, Donato F, Slettmoen T, Moser MB, Moser EI. All-viral tracing of monosynaptic inputs to single birthdate-defined neurons in the intact brain. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100221. [PMID: 35637903 PMCID: PMC9142754 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal firing patterns are the result of inputs converging onto single cells. Identifying these inputs, anatomically and functionally, is essential to understand how neurons integrate information. Single-cell electroporation of helper genes and subsequent local injection of recombinant rabies viruses enable precise mapping of inputs to individual cells in superficial layers of the intact cortex. However, access to neurons in deeper structures requires more invasive procedures, including removal of overlying tissue. We developed a method that, through a combination of virus injections, allows us to target 4 or fewer hippocampal cells 48% of the time and a single cell 16% of the time in wild-type mice without use of electroporation or tissue aspiration. We identify local and distant monosynaptic inputs that can be functionally characterized in vivo. By expanding the toolbox for monosynaptic circuit tracing, this method will help further our understanding of neuronal integration at the level of single cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Irene Jacobsen
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, NTNU, Trondheim 7030, Norway
| | - Rajeevkumar R. Nair
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, NTNU, Trondheim 7030, Norway
| | - Horst A. Obenhaus
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, NTNU, Trondheim 7030, Norway
| | - Flavio Donato
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, NTNU, Trondheim 7030, Norway
| | - Torstein Slettmoen
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, NTNU, Trondheim 7030, Norway
| | - May-Britt Moser
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, NTNU, Trondheim 7030, Norway
| | - Edvard I. Moser
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, NTNU, Trondheim 7030, Norway
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24
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Beier K. Modified viral-genetic mapping reveals local and global connectivity relationships of ventral tegmental area dopamine cells. eLife 2022; 11:e76886. [PMID: 35604019 PMCID: PMC9173742 DOI: 10.7554/elife.76886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine cells in the ventral tegmental area (VTADA) are critical for a variety of motivated behaviors. These cells receive synaptic inputs from over 100 anatomically defined brain regions, which enables control from a distributed set of inputs across the brain. Extensive efforts have been made to map inputs to VTA cells based on neurochemical phenotype and output site. However, all of these studies have the same fundamental limitation that inputs local to the VTA cannot be properly assessed due to non-Cre-dependent uptake of EnvA-pseudotyped virus. Therefore, the quantitative contribution of local inputs to the VTA, including GABAergic, DAergic, and serotonergic, is not known. Here, I used a modified viral-genetic strategy that enables examination of both local and long-range inputs to VTADA cells in mice. I found that nearly half of the total inputs to VTADA cells are located locally, revealing a substantial portion of inputs that have been missed by previous analyses. The majority of inhibition to VTADA cells arises from the substantia nigra pars reticulata, with large contributions from the VTA and the substantia nigra pars compacta. In addition to receiving inputs from VTAGABA neurons, DA neurons are connected with other DA neurons within the VTA as well as the nearby retrorubal field. Lastly, I show that VTADA neurons receive inputs from distributed serotonergic neurons throughout the midbrain and hindbrain, with the majority arising from the dorsal raphe. My study highlights the importance of using the appropriate combination of viral-genetic reagents to unmask the complexity of connectivity relationships to defined cells in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Beier
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Neurobiology and Behavior, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, IrvineIrvineUnited States
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25
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Ou-Yang H, Yang SH, Chen W, Yang SH, Cidem A, Sung LY, Chen CM. Cruciform DNA Structures Act as Legible Templates for Accelerating Homologous Recombination in Transgenic Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3973. [PMID: 35409332 PMCID: PMC9000021 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Inverted repeat (IR) DNA sequences compose cruciform structures. Some genetic disorders are the result of genome inversion or translocation by cruciform DNA structures. The present study examined whether exogenous DNA integration into the chromosomes of transgenic animals was related to cruciform DNA structures. Large imperfect cruciform structures were frequently predicted around predestinated transgene integration sites in host genomes of microinjection-based transgenic (Tg) animals (αLA-LPH Tg goat, Akr1A1eGFP/eGFP Tg mouse, and NFκB-Luc Tg mouse) or CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing (GE) animals (αLA-AP1 GE mouse). Transgene cassettes were imperfectly matched with their predestinated sequences. According to the analyzed data, we proposed a putative model in which the flexible cruciform DNA structures acted as a legible template for DNA integration into linear DNAs or double-strand break (DSB) alleles. To demonstrate this model, artificial inverted repeat knock-in (KI) reporter plasmids were created to analyze the KI rate using the CRISPR/Cas9 system in NIH3T3 cells. Notably, the KI rate of the 5′ homologous arm inverted repeat donor plasmid (5′IR) with the ROSA gRNA group (31.5%) was significantly higher than the knock-in reporter donor plasmid (KIR) with the ROSA gRNA group (21.3%, p < 0.05). However, the KI rate of the 3′ inverted terminal repeat/inverted repeat donor plasmid (3′ITRIR) group was not different from the KIR group (23.0% vs. 22.0%). These results demonstrated that the legibility of the sequence with the cruciform DNA existing in the transgene promoted homologous recombination (HR) with a higher KI rate. Our findings suggest that flexible cruciform DNAs folded by IR sequences improve the legibility and accelerate DNA 3′-overhang integration into the host genome via homologous recombination machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Ou-Yang
- Program in Translational Medicine, Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (H.O.-Y.); (S.-H.Y.); (A.C.)
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Shiao-Hsuan Yang
- Program in Translational Medicine, Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (H.O.-Y.); (S.-H.Y.); (A.C.)
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua 515, Taiwan
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 600, Taiwan;
| | - Shang-Hsun Yang
- Department of Physiology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan;
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan
| | - Abdulkadir Cidem
- Program in Translational Medicine, Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (H.O.-Y.); (S.-H.Y.); (A.C.)
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum 25250, Turkey
| | - Li-Ying Sung
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mu Chen
- Program in Translational Medicine, Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; (H.O.-Y.); (S.-H.Y.); (A.C.)
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Rong-Hsing Translational Medicine Research Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan
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26
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Ba F, Liu Y, Liu WQ, Tian X, Li J. SYMBIOSIS: synthetic manipulable biobricks via orthogonal serine integrase systems. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:2973-2985. [PMID: 35191490 PMCID: PMC8934643 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Serine integrases are emerging as one of the most powerful biological tools for synthetic biology. They have been widely used across genome engineering and genetic circuit design. However, developing serine integrase-based tools for directly/precisely manipulating synthetic biobricks is still missing. Here, we report SYMBIOSIS, a versatile method that can robustly manipulate DNA parts in vivo and in vitro. First, we propose a 'keys match locks' model to demonstrate that three orthogonal serine integrases are able to irreversibly and stably switch on seven synthetic biobricks with high accuracy in vivo. Then, we demonstrate that purified integrases can facilitate the assembly of 'donor' and 'acceptor' plasmids in vitro to construct composite plasmids. Finally, we use SYMBIOSIS to assemble different chromoprotein genes and create novel colored Escherichia coli. We anticipate that our SYMBIOSIS strategy will accelerate synthetic biobrick manipulation, genetic circuit design and multiple plasmid assembly for synthetic biology with broad potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Ba
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yushi Liu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Wan-Qiu Liu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Xintong Tian
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jian Li
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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27
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Emerging strategies for the genetic dissection of gene functions, cell types, and neural circuits in the mammalian brain. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:422-435. [PMID: 34561609 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01292-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian brain is composed of a large number of highly diverse cell types with different molecular, anatomical, and functional features. Distinct cellular identities are generated during development under the regulation of intricate genetic programs and manifested through unique combinations of gene expression. Recent advancements in our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the assembly, function, and pathology of the brain circuitry depend on the invention and application of genetic strategies that engage intrinsic gene regulatory mechanisms. Here we review the strategies for gene regulation on DNA, RNA, and protein levels and their applications in cell type targeting and neural circuit dissection. We highlight newly emerged strategies and emphasize the importance of combinatorial approaches. We also discuss the potential caveats and pitfalls in current methods and suggest future prospects to improve their comprehensiveness and versatility.
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28
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Cheung V, Chung P, Bjorni M, Shvareva VA, Lopez YC, Feinberg EH. Virally encoded connectivity transgenic overlay RNA sequencing (VECTORseq) defines projection neurons involved in sensorimotor integration. Cell Rep 2021; 37:110131. [PMID: 34936877 PMCID: PMC8719358 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavior arises from concerted activity throughout the brain. Consequently, a major focus of modern neuroscience is defining the physiology and behavioral roles of projection neurons linking different brain areas. Single-cell RNA sequencing has facilitated these efforts by revealing molecular determinants of cellular physiology and markers that enable genetically targeted perturbations such as optogenetics, but existing methods for sequencing defined projection populations are low throughput, painstaking, and costly. We developed a straightforward, multiplexed approach, virally encoded connectivity transgenic overlay RNA sequencing (VECTORseq). VECTORseq repurposes commercial retrogradely infecting viruses typically used to express functional transgenes (e.g., recombinases and fluorescent proteins) by treating viral transgene mRNA as barcodes within single-cell datasets. VECTORseq is compatible with different viral families, resolves multiple populations with different projection targets in one sequencing run, and identifies cortical and subcortical excitatory and inhibitory projection populations. Our study provides a roadmap for high-throughput identification of neuronal subtypes based on connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Cheung
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Tetrad Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
| | - Philip Chung
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Max Bjorni
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Varvara A Shvareva
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yesenia C Lopez
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Evan H Feinberg
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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29
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NeuroD1 induces microglial apoptosis and cannot induce microglia-to-neuron cross-lineage reprogramming. Neuron 2021; 109:4094-4108.e5. [PMID: 34875233 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The regenerative capacity of neurons is limited in the central nervous system (CNS), with irreversible neuronal loss upon insult. In contrast, microglia exhibit extraordinary capacity for repopulation. Matsuda et al. (2019) recently reported NeuroD1-induced microglia-to-neuron conversion, aiming to provide an "unlimited" source to regenerate neurons. However, the extent to which NeuroD1 can exert cross-lineage reprogramming of microglia (myeloid lineage) to neurons (neuroectodermal lineage) is unclear. In this study, we unexpectedly found that NeuroD1 cannot convert microglia to neurons in mice. Instead, NeuroD1 expression induces microglial cell death. Moreover, lineage tracing reveals non-specific leakage of similar lentiviruses as previously used for microglia-to-neuron conversion, which confounds the microglia-to-neuron observation. In summary, we demonstrated that NeuroD1 cannot induce microglia-to-neuron cross-lineage reprogramming. We here propose rigid principles for verifying glia-to-neuron conversion. This Matters Arising paper is in response to Matsuda et al. (2019), published in Neuron.
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30
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Maes ME, Wögenstein GM, Colombo G, Casado-Polanco R, Siegert S. Optimizing AAV2/6 microglial targeting identified enhanced efficiency in the photoreceptor degenerative environment. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 23:210-224. [PMID: 34703843 PMCID: PMC8516996 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are widely used to deliver genetic material in vivo to distinct cell types such as neurons or glial cells, allowing for targeted manipulation. Transduction of microglia is mostly excluded from this strategy, likely due to the cells’ heterogeneous state upon environmental changes, which makes AAV design challenging. Here, we established the retina as a model system for microglial AAV validation and optimization. First, we show that AAV2/6 transduced microglia in both synaptic layers, where layer preference corresponds to the intravitreal or subretinal delivery method. Surprisingly, we observed significantly enhanced microglial transduction during photoreceptor degeneration. Thus, we modified the AAV6 capsid to reduce heparin binding by introducing four point mutations (K531E, R576Q, K493S, and K459S), resulting in increased microglial transduction in the outer plexiform layer. Finally, to improve microglial-specific transduction, we validated a Cre-dependent transgene delivery cassette for use in combination with the Cx3cr1CreERT2 mouse line. Together, our results provide a foundation for future studies optimizing AAV-mediated microglia transduction and highlight that environmental conditions influence microglial transduction efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E Maes
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | | | - Gloria Colombo
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | | | - Sandra Siegert
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
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31
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Kudo M, Wupuer S, Fujiwara M, Saito Y, Kubota S, Inoue KI, Takada M, Seki K. Specific gene expression in unmyelinated dorsal root ganglion neurons in nonhuman primates by intra-nerve injection of AAV 6 vector. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 23:11-22. [PMID: 34552999 PMCID: PMC8426475 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus 6 (AAV6) has been proposed as a potential vector candidate for specific gene expression in pain-related dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, but this has not been confirmed in nonhuman primates. The aim of our study was to analyze the transduction efficiency and target specificity of this viral vector in the common marmoset by comparing it with those in the rat. When green fluorescent protein-expressing serotype-6 vector was injected into the sciatic nerve, the efficiency of gene expression in DRG neurons was comparable in both species. We found that the serotype-6 vector was largely specific to the pain-related ganglion neurons in the marmoset, as well as in the rat, whereas the serotype-9 vector resulted in contrasting effects in the two species. Neither AAV6 nor AAV9 resulted in DRG toxicity when administered via the sciatic nerve, suggesting this as a safer route of sensory nerve transduction than the currently used intrathecal or intravenous administrative routes. Furthermore, the AAV6 vector could be an optimal serotype for gene therapy for human chronic pain that has a minimal effect on other somatosensory functions of DRG neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moeko Kudo
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sidikejiang Wupuer
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maki Fujiwara
- Systems Neuroscience Section, Department of Neuroscience, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yuko Saito
- Department of Neuropathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Kubota
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Inoue
- Systems Neuroscience Section, Department of Neuroscience, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, Japan
| | - Masahiko Takada
- Systems Neuroscience Section, Department of Neuroscience, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Seki
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan
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32
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Botterill JJ, Khlaifia A, Walters BJ, Brimble MA, Scharfman HE, Arruda-Carvalho M. Off-Target Expression of Cre-Dependent Adeno-Associated Viruses in Wild-Type C57BL/6J Mice. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0363-21.2021. [PMID: 34785571 PMCID: PMC8614227 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0363-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are a commonly used tool in neuroscience to efficiently label, trace, and/or manipulate neuronal populations. Highly specific targeting can be achieved through recombinase-dependent AAVs in combination with transgenic rodent lines that express Cre-recombinase in specific cell types. Visualization of viral expression is typically achieved through fluorescent reporter proteins (e.g., GFP or mCherry) packaged within the AAV genome. Although nonamplified fluorescence is usually sufficient to observe viral expression, immunohistochemical amplification of the fluorescent reporter is routinely used to improve viral visualization. In the present study, Cre-dependent AAVs were injected into the neocortex of wild-type C57BL/6J mice. While we observed weak but consistent nonamplified off-target double inverted open reading frame (DIO) expression in C57BL/6J mice, antibody amplification of the GFP or mCherry reporter revealed notable Cre-independent viral expression. Off-target expression of DIO constructs in wild-type C57BL/6J mice occurred independent of vendor, AAV serotype, or promoter. We also evaluated whether Cre-independent expression had functional effects via designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs). The DREADD agonist C21 (compound 21) had no effect on contextual fear conditioning or c-Fos expression in DIO-hM3Dq-mCherry+ cells of C57BL/6J mice. Together, our results indicate that DIO constructs have off-target expression in wild-type subjects. Our findings are particularly important for the design of experiments featuring sensitive systems and/or quantitative measurements that could be negatively impacted by off-target expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin J Botterill
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Abdessattar Khlaifia
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Brandon J Walters
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Mark A Brimble
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennnessee 38105
| | - Helen E Scharfman
- Center for Dementia Research, The Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, New York 10962
- Departments of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Neuroscience & Physiology, and Psychiatry, and New York University Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Health, New York, New York 10016
| | - Maithe Arruda-Carvalho
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G5, Canada
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33
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Bido S, Muggeo S, Massimino L, Marzi MJ, Giannelli SG, Melacini E, Nannoni M, Gambarè D, Bellini E, Ordazzo G, Rossi G, Maffezzini C, Iannelli A, Luoni M, Bacigaluppi M, Gregori S, Nicassio F, Broccoli V. Microglia-specific overexpression of α-synuclein leads to severe dopaminergic neurodegeneration by phagocytic exhaustion and oxidative toxicity. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6237. [PMID: 34716339 PMCID: PMC8556263 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26519-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings in human samples and animal models support the involvement of inflammation in the development of Parkinson's disease. Nevertheless, it is currently unknown whether microglial activation constitutes a primary event in neurodegeneration. We generated a new mouse model by lentiviral-mediated selective α-synuclein (αSYN) accumulation in microglial cells. Surprisingly, these mice developed progressive degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons without endogenous αSYN aggregation. Transcriptomics and functional assessment revealed that αSYN-accumulating microglial cells developed a strong reactive state with phagocytic exhaustion and excessive production of oxidative and proinflammatory molecules. This inflammatory state created a molecular feed-forward vicious cycle between microglia and IFNγ-secreting immune cells infiltrating the brain parenchyma. Pharmacological inhibition of oxidative and nitrosative molecule production was sufficient to attenuate neurodegeneration. These results suggest that αSYN accumulation in microglia induces selective DA neuronal degeneration by promoting phagocytic exhaustion, an excessively toxic environment and the selective recruitment of peripheral immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Bido
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Sharon Muggeo
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Massimino
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Jacopo Marzi
- Center for Genomic Science of IIT@SEMM, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 20139, Milan, Italy
| | - Serena Gea Giannelli
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Melacini
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience, 20129, Milan, Italy
| | - Melania Nannoni
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Diana Gambarè
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo Bellini
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriele Ordazzo
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Greta Rossi
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Camilla Maffezzini
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Iannelli
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience, 20129, Milan, Italy
| | - Mirko Luoni
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bacigaluppi
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Gregori
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Nicassio
- Center for Genomic Science of IIT@SEMM, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 20139, Milan, Italy
| | - Vania Broccoli
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy.
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience, 20129, Milan, Italy.
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Wang LL, Serrano C, Zhong X, Ma S, Zou Y, Zhang CL. Revisiting astrocyte to neuron conversion with lineage tracing in vivo. Cell 2021; 184:5465-5481.e16. [PMID: 34582787 PMCID: PMC8526404 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In vivo cell fate conversions have emerged as potential regeneration-based therapeutics for injury and disease. Recent studies reported that ectopic expression or knockdown of certain factors can convert resident astrocytes into functional neurons with high efficiency, region specificity, and precise connectivity. However, using stringent lineage tracing in the mouse brain, we show that the presumed astrocyte-converted neurons are actually endogenous neurons. AAV-mediated co-expression of NEUROD1 and a reporter specifically and efficiently induces reporter-labeled neurons. However, these neurons cannot be traced retrospectively to quiescent or reactive astrocytes using lineage-mapping strategies. Instead, through a retrograde labeling approach, our results reveal that endogenous neurons are the source for these viral-reporter-labeled neurons. Similarly, despite efficient knockdown of PTBP1 in vivo, genetically traced resident astrocytes were not converted into neurons. Together, our results highlight the requirement of lineage-tracing strategies, which should be broadly applied to studies of cell fate conversions in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei-Lei Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| | - Carolina Serrano
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xiaoling Zhong
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Shuaipeng Ma
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Yuhua Zou
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Chun-Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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Koldaeva A, Zhang C, Huang YP, Reinert JK, Mizuno S, Sugiyama F, Takahashi S, Soliman T, Matsunami H, Fukunaga I. Generation and Characterization of a Cell Type-Specific, Inducible Cre-Driver Line to Study Olfactory Processing. J Neurosci 2021; 41:6449-6467. [PMID: 34099512 PMCID: PMC8318078 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3076-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In sensory systems of the brain, mechanisms exist to extract distinct features from stimuli to generate a variety of behavioral repertoires. These often correspond to different cell types at various stages in sensory processing. In the mammalian olfactory system, complex information processing starts in the olfactory bulb, whose output is conveyed by mitral cells (MCs) and tufted cells (TCs). Despite many differences between them, and despite the crucial position they occupy in the information hierarchy, Cre-driver lines that distinguish them do not yet exist. Here, we sought to identify genes that are differentially expressed between MCs and TCs of the mouse, with an ultimate goal to generate a cell type-specific Cre-driver line, starting from a transcriptome analysis using a large and publicly available single-cell RNA-seq dataset (Zeisel et al., 2018). Many genes were differentially expressed, but only a few showed consistent expressions in MCs and at the specificity required. After further validating these putative markers using ISH, two genes (i.e., Pkib and Lbdh2) remained as promising candidates. Using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing, we generated Cre-driver lines and analyzed the resulting recombination patterns. This indicated that our new inducible Cre-driver line, Lbhd2-CreERT2, can be used to genetically label MCs in a tamoxifen dose-dependent manner, both in male and female mice, as assessed by soma locations, projection patterns, and sensory-evoked responses in vivo Hence, this is a promising tool for investigating cell type-specific contributions to olfactory processing and demonstrates the power of publicly accessible data in accelerating science.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In the brain, distinct cell types play unique roles. It is therefore important to have tools for studying unique cell types specifically. For the sense of smell in mammals, information is processed first by circuits of the olfactory bulb, where two types of cells, mitral cells and tufted cells, output different information. We generated a transgenic mouse line that enables mitral cells to be specifically labeled or manipulated. This was achieved by looking for genes that are specific to mitral cells using a large and public gene expression dataset, and creating a transgenic mouse using the gene editing technique, CRISPR/Cas9. This will allow scientists to better investigate parallel information processing underlying the sense of smell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anzhelika Koldaeva
- Sensory and Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan, 904-0495
| | - Cary Zhang
- Sensory and Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan, 904-0495
| | - Yu-Pei Huang
- Sensory and Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan, 904-0495
| | - Janine Kristin Reinert
- Sensory and Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan, 904-0495
| | - Seiya Mizuno
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Tsukuba University, Ibaraki, Japan, 305-8577
| | - Fumihiro Sugiyama
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Tsukuba University, Ibaraki, Japan, 305-8577
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Tsukuba University, Ibaraki, Japan, 305-8577
| | - Taha Soliman
- Sensory and Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan, 904-0495
| | - Hiroaki Matsunami
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, 27710
| | - Izumi Fukunaga
- Sensory and Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan, 904-0495
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Carullo NVN, Hinds JE, Revanna JS, Tuscher JJ, Bauman AJ, Day JJ. A Cre-Dependent CRISPR/dCas9 System for Gene Expression Regulation in Neurons. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0188-21.2021. [PMID: 34321217 PMCID: PMC8376295 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0188-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Site-specific genetic and epigenetic targeting of distinct cell populations is a central goal in molecular neuroscience and is crucial to understand the gene regulatory mechanisms that underlie complex phenotypes and behaviors. While recent technological advances have enabled unprecedented control over gene expression, many of these approaches are focused on selected model organisms and/or require labor-intensive customization for different applications. The simplicity and modularity of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based systems have transformed genome editing and expanded the gene regulatory toolbox. However, there are few available tools for cell-selective CRISPR regulation in neurons. We designed, validated, and optimized CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) and CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) systems for Cre recombinase-dependent gene regulation. Unexpectedly, CRISPRa systems based on a traditional double-floxed inverted open reading frame (DIO) strategy exhibited leaky target gene induction even without Cre. Therefore, we developed an intron-containing Cre-dependent CRISPRa system (SVI-DIO-dCas9-VPR) that alleviated leaky gene induction and outperformed the traditional DIO system at endogenous genes in HEK293T cells and rat primary neuron cultures. Using gene-specific CRISPR sgRNAs, we demonstrate that SVI-DIO-dCas9-VPR can activate numerous rat or human genes (GRM2, Tent5b, Fos, Sstr2, and Gadd45b) in a Cre-specific manner. To illustrate the versatility of this tool, we created a parallel CRISPRi construct that successfully inhibited expression from a luciferase reporter in HEK293T cells only in the presence of Cre. These results provide a robust framework for Cre-dependent CRISPR-dCas9 approaches across different model systems, and enable cell-specific targeting when combined with common Cre driver lines or Cre delivery via viral vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy V N Carullo
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294
| | - Jenna E Hinds
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294
| | - Jasmin S Revanna
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294
| | - Jennifer J Tuscher
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294
| | - Allison J Bauman
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294
| | - Jeremy J Day
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294
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Parmar M, Björklund A, Björklund T. In vivo conversion of dopamine neurons in mouse models of Parkinson's disease - a future approach for regenerative therapy? Curr Opin Genet Dev 2021; 70:76-82. [PMID: 34175529 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in cell reprogramming have made it possible to form new therapeutic cells within the body itself via a process called direct conversion or lineage reprogramming. A series of studies have shown that it is possible to reprogram resident glia into new neurons within the brain parenchyma. These studies opened up for the targeted attempts to achieve functional brain repair using in vivo conversion. Because of the relatively focal degeneration, Parkinson's Disease (PD) is an attractive target for both transplantation-based and in vivo conversion-based reparative approaches. Fetal cell transplants have provided proof-of-concept and stem cell-based therapies for PD are now on the verge of entering clinical trials. In the future, in vivo conversion may be an alternative to transplantation-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Parmar
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Anders Björklund
- Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Tomas Björklund
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
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38
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Weinholtz CA, Castle MJ. Intersectional targeting of defined neural circuits by adeno-associated virus vectors. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:981-990. [PMID: 33341969 PMCID: PMC8786212 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian nervous system is a complex network of interconnected cells. We review emerging techniques that use the axonal transport of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to dissect neural circuits. These intersectional approaches specifically target AAV-mediated gene expression to discrete neuron populations based on their axonal connectivity, including: (a) neurons with one defined output, (b) neurons with one defined input, (c) neurons with one defined input and one defined output, and (d) neurons with two defined inputs or outputs. The number of labeled neurons can be directly controlled to trace axonal projections and examine cellular morphology. These approaches can precisely target the expression of fluorescent reporters, optogenetic ion channels, chemogenetic receptors, disease-associated proteins, and other factors to defined neural circuits in mammals ranging from mice to macaques, and thereby provide a powerful new means to understand the structure and function of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chase A. Weinholtz
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Genomic Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael J. Castle
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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39
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Duarte Azevedo M, Sander S, Jeanneret C, Olfat S, Tenenbaum L. Selective targeting of striatal parvalbumin-expressing interneurons for transgene delivery. J Neurosci Methods 2021; 354:109105. [PMID: 33652020 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
PVCre mice--> combined with AAV-FLEX vectors allowed efficient and specific targeting of PV+ interneurons in the striatum. However, diffusion of viral particles to the globus pallidus caused massive transduction of PV+ projection neurons and subsequent anterograde transport of the transgene product to the subthalamic nucleus and the substantia nigra pars reticulata. Different AAV serotypes (1 and 9) and promoters (CBA and human synapsin) were evaluated. The combination of AAV1, a moderate expression level (human synapsin promoter) and a precise adjustment of the stereotaxic coordinates in the anterior and dorsolateral part of the striatum were necessary to avoid transduction of PV+ GP projection neurons. Even in the absence of direct transduction due to diffusion of viral particles, GP PV+ projection neurons could be retrogradely transduced via their terminals present in the dorsal striatum. However, in the absence of diffusion, GP-Str PV+ projection neurons were poorly or not transduced suggesting that retrograde transduction did not significantly impair the selective targeting of striatal PV+ neurons. Finally, a prominent reduction of the number of striatal PV+ interneurons (about 50 %) was evidenced in the presence of the Cre recombinase suggesting that functional effects of AAV-mediated transgene expression in PV+ striatal interneurons in PVCre mice should be analyzed with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Duarte Azevedo
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Center for Neuroscience Research, Clinical Neurosciences Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland
| | - Sibilla Sander
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Center for Neuroscience Research, Clinical Neurosciences Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland
| | - Cheryl Jeanneret
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Center for Neuroscience Research, Clinical Neurosciences Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland
| | - Soophie Olfat
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Center for Neuroscience Research, Clinical Neurosciences Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland
| | - Liliane Tenenbaum
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurotherapies, Center for Neuroscience Research, Clinical Neurosciences Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland.
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40
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Fenno LE, Ramakrishnan C, Kim YS, Evans KE, Lo M, Vesuna S, Inoue M, Cheung KYM, Yuen E, Pichamoorthy N, Hong ASO, Deisseroth K. Comprehensive Dual- and Triple-Feature Intersectional Single-Vector Delivery of Diverse Functional Payloads to Cells of Behaving Mammals. Neuron 2020; 107:836-853.e11. [PMID: 32574559 PMCID: PMC7687746 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The resolution and dimensionality with which biologists can characterize cell types have expanded dramatically in recent years, and intersectional consideration of such features (e.g., multiple gene expression and anatomical parameters) is increasingly understood to be essential. At the same time, genetically targeted technology for writing in and reading out activity patterns for cells in living organisms has enabled causal investigation in physiology and behavior; however, cell-type-specific delivery of these tools (including microbial opsins for optogenetics and genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators) has thus far fallen short of versatile targeting to cells jointly defined by many individually selected features. Here, we develop a comprehensive intersectional targeting toolbox including 39 novel vectors for joint-feature-targeted delivery of 13 molecular payloads (including opsins, indicators, and fluorophores), systematic approaches for development and optimization of new intersectional tools, hardware for in vivo monitoring of expression dynamics, and the first versatile single-virus tools (Triplesect) that enable targeting of triply defined cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lief E Fenno
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Charu Ramakrishnan
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yoon Seok Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kathryn E Evans
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Maisie Lo
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sam Vesuna
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Masatoshi Inoue
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kathy Y M Cheung
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Elle Yuen
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Alice S O Hong
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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41
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Guyenet PG, Stornetta RL, Souza GMPR, Abbott SBG, Brooks VL. Neuronal Networks in Hypertension: Recent Advances. Hypertension 2020; 76:300-311. [PMID: 32594802 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.14521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenic hypertension is associated with excessive sympathetic nerve activity to the kidneys and portions of the cardiovascular system. Here we examine the brain regions that cause heightened sympathetic nerve activity in animal models of neurogenic hypertension, and we discuss the triggers responsible for the changes in neuronal activity within these regions. We highlight the limitations of the evidence and, whenever possible, we briefly address the pertinence of the findings to human hypertension. The arterial baroreflex reduces arterial blood pressure variability and contributes to the arterial blood pressure set point. This set point can also be elevated by a newly described cerebral blood flow-dependent and astrocyte-mediated sympathetic reflex. Both reflexes converge on the presympathetic neurons of the rostral medulla oblongata, and both are plausible causes of neurogenic hypertension. Sensory afferent dysfunction (reduced baroreceptor activity, increased renal, or carotid body afferent) contributes to many forms of neurogenic hypertension. Neurogenic hypertension can also result from activation of brain nuclei or sensory afferents by excess circulating hormones (leptin, insulin, Ang II [angiotensin II]) or sodium. Leptin raises blood vessel sympathetic nerve activity by activating the carotid bodies and subsets of arcuate neurons. Ang II works in the lamina terminalis and probably throughout the brain stem and hypothalamus. Sodium is sensed primarily in the lamina terminalis. Regardless of its cause, the excess sympathetic nerve activity is mediated to some extent by activation of presympathetic neurons located in the rostral ventrolateral medulla or the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. Increased activity of the orexinergic neurons also contributes to hypertension in selected models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- From the Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville (P.G.G., R.L.S., G.M.P.R.S., S.B.G.A.)
| | - Ruth L Stornetta
- From the Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville (P.G.G., R.L.S., G.M.P.R.S., S.B.G.A.)
| | - George M P R Souza
- From the Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville (P.G.G., R.L.S., G.M.P.R.S., S.B.G.A.)
| | - Stephen B G Abbott
- From the Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville (P.G.G., R.L.S., G.M.P.R.S., S.B.G.A.)
| | - Virginia L Brooks
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland (V.L.B.)
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42
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A viral toolkit for recording transcription factor-DNA interactions in live mouse tissues. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:10003-10014. [PMID: 32300008 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1918241117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) enact precise regulation of gene expression through site-specific, genome-wide binding. Common methods for TF-occupancy profiling, such as chromatin immunoprecipitation, are limited by requirement of TF-specific antibodies and provide only end-point snapshots of TF binding. Alternatively, TF-tagging techniques, in which a TF is fused to a DNA-modifying enzyme that marks TF-binding events across the genome as they occur, do not require TF-specific antibodies and offer the potential for unique applications, such as recording of TF occupancy over time and cell type specificity through conditional expression of the TF-enzyme fusion. Here, we create a viral toolkit for one such method, calling cards, and demonstrate that these reagents can be delivered to the live mouse brain and used to report TF occupancy. Further, we establish a Cre-dependent calling cards system and, in proof-of-principle experiments, show utility in defining cell type-specific TF profiles and recording and integrating TF-binding events across time. This versatile approach will enable unique studies of TF-mediated gene regulation in live animal models.
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43
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Lavin TK, Jin L, Lea NE, Wickersham IR. Monosynaptic Tracing Success Depends Critically on Helper Virus Concentrations. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020; 12:6. [PMID: 32116642 PMCID: PMC7033752 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Monosynaptically-restricted transsynaptic tracing using deletion-mutant rabies virus (RV) has become a widely used technique in neuroscience, allowing identification, imaging, and manipulation of neurons directly presynaptic to a starting neuronal population. Its most common implementation is to use Cre mouse lines in combination with Cre-dependent "helper" adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) to supply the required genes to the targeted population before subsequent injection of a first-generation (ΔG) rabies viral vector. Here we show that the efficiency of transsynaptic spread and the degree of nonspecific labeling in wild-type control animals depend strongly on the concentrations of these helper AAVs. Our results suggest practical guidelines for achieving good results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ian R. Wickersham
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
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