1
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Song Y, Zhao Z, Xu L, Huang P, Gao J, Li J, Wang X, Zhou Y, Wang J, Zhao W, Wang L, Zheng C, Gao B, Jiang L, Liu K, Guo Y, Yao X, Duan L. Using an ER-specific optogenetic mechanostimulator to understand the mechanosensitivity of the endoplasmic reticulum. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1396-1409.e5. [PMID: 38569547 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The ability of cells to perceive and respond to mechanical cues is essential for numerous biological activities. Emerging evidence indicates important contributions of organelles to cellular mechanosensitivity and mechanotransduction. However, whether and how the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) senses and reacts to mechanical forces remains elusive. To fill the knowledge gap, after developing a light-inducible ER-specific mechanostimulator (LIMER), we identify that mechanostimulation of ER elicits a transient, rapid efflux of Ca2+ from ER in monkey kidney COS-7 cells, which is dependent on the cation channels transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 1 (TRPV1) and polycystin-2 (PKD2) in an additive manner. This ER Ca2+ release can be repeatedly stimulated and tuned by varying the intensity and duration of force application. Moreover, ER-specific mechanostimulation inhibits ER-to-Golgi trafficking. Sustained mechanostimuli increase the levels of binding-immunoglobulin protein (BiP) expression and phosphorylated eIF2α, two markers for ER stress. Our results provide direct evidence for ER mechanosensitivity and tight mechanoregulation of ER functions, placing ER as an important player on the intricate map of cellular mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Zhihao Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Linyu Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Peiyuan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Jiayang Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell & Developmental Biology and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Jingxuan Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Xuejie Wang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yiren Zhou
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Jinhui Wang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Wenting Zhao
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637457, Singapore
| | - Likun Wang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chaogu Zheng
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Bo Gao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Liwen Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell & Developmental Biology and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yusong Guo
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Yao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Liting Duan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
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2
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Liu X, Xu L, Song Y, Zhao Z, Li X, Wong CY, Chen R, Feng J, Gou Y, Qi Y, Chow HM, Yao S, Wang Y, Gao S, Liu X, Duan L. Force-induced tail-autotomy mitochondrial fission and biogenesis of matrix-excluded mitochondrial-derived vesicles for quality control. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2217019121. [PMID: 38547062 PMCID: PMC10998583 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2217019121] [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: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria constantly fuse and divide for mitochondrial inheritance and functions. Here, we identified a distinct type of naturally occurring fission, tail-autotomy fission, wherein a tail-like thin tubule protrudes from the mitochondrial body and disconnects, resembling autotomy. Next, utilizing an optogenetic mitochondria-specific mechanostimulator, we revealed that mechanical tensile force drives tail-autotomy fission. This force-induced fission involves DRP1/MFF and endoplasmic reticulum tubule wrapping. It redistributes mitochondrial DNA, producing mitochondrial fragments with or without mitochondrial DNA for different fates. Moreover, tensile force can decouple outer and inner mitochondrial membranes, pulling out matrix-excluded tubule segments. Subsequent tail-autotomy fission separates the matrix-excluded tubule segments into matrix-excluded mitochondrial-derived vesicles (MDVs) which recruit Parkin and LC3B, indicating the unique role of tail-autotomy fission in segregating only outer membrane components for mitophagy. Sustained force promotes fission and MDV biogenesis more effectively than transient one. Our results uncover a mechanistically and functionally distinct type of fission and unveil the role of tensile forces in modulating fission and MDV biogenesis for quality control, underscoring the heterogeneity of fission and mechanoregulation of mitochondrial dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Linyu Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Yutong Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Zhihao Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Cheuk-Yiu Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Jianxiong Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, China
| | - Yitao Gou
- Department of Physics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Yajing Qi
- Department of Physics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Hei-Man Chow
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
- Gerald Choa Neuroscience Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
- Nexus of Rare Neurodegenerative Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Shuhuai Yao
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Physics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Song Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou510060, China
| | - Xingguo Liu
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, Chinese University of Hong Kong-Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health (CUHK-GIBH) Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou510000, China
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
| | - Liting Duan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR999077, China
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3
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Hannaford MR, Rusan NM. Positioning centrioles and centrosomes. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202311140. [PMID: 38512059 PMCID: PMC10959756 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202311140] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Centrosomes are the primary microtubule organizer in eukaryotic cells. In addition to shaping the intracellular microtubule network and the mitotic spindle, centrosomes are responsible for positioning cilia and flagella. To fulfill these diverse functions, centrosomes must be properly located within cells, which requires that they undergo intracellular transport. Importantly, centrosome mispositioning has been linked to ciliopathies, cancer, and infertility. The mechanisms by which centrosomes migrate are diverse and context dependent. In many cells, centrosomes move via indirect motor transport, whereby centrosomal microtubules engage anchored motor proteins that exert forces on those microtubules, resulting in centrosome movement. However, in some cases, centrosomes move via direct motor transport, whereby the centrosome or centriole functions as cargo that directly binds molecular motors which then walk on stationary microtubules. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of centrosome motility and the consequences of centrosome mispositioning and identify key questions that remain to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R. Hannaford
- Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nasser M. Rusan
- Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Turan FB, Ercan ME, Firat-Karalar EN. A Chemically Inducible Organelle Rerouting Assay to Probe Primary Cilium Assembly, Maintenance, and Disassembly in Cultured Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2725:55-78. [PMID: 37856017 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3507-0_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The primary cilium is a conserved, microtubule-based organelle that protrudes from the surface of most vertebrate cells as well as sensory cells of many organisms. It transduces extracellular chemical and mechanical cues to regulate diverse cellular processes during development and physiology. Loss-of-function studies via RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knockouts have been the main tool for elucidating the functions of proteins, protein complexes, and organelles implicated in cilium biology. However, these methods are limited in studying acute spatiotemporal functions of proteins as well as the connection between their cellular positioning and functions. A powerful approach based on inducible recruitment of plus or minus end-directed molecular motors to the protein of interest enables fast and precise control of protein activity in time and in space. In this chapter, we present a chemically inducible heterodimerization method for functional perturbation of centriolar satellites, an emerging membrane-less organelle involved in cilium biogenesis and function. The method we present is based on rerouting of centriolar satellites to the cell center or the periphery in mammalian epithelial cells. We also describe how this method can be applied to study the temporal functions of centriolar satellites during primary cilium assembly, maintenance, and disassembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Basak Turan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - M Erdem Ercan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Elif Nur Firat-Karalar
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
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5
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Cochard A, Safieddine A, Combe P, Benassy M, Weil D, Gueroui Z. Condensate functionalization with microtubule motors directs their nucleation in space and allows manipulating RNA localization. EMBO J 2023; 42:e114106. [PMID: 37724036 PMCID: PMC10577640 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2023114106] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The localization of RNAs in cells is critical for many cellular processes. Whereas motor-driven transport of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates plays a prominent role in RNA localization in cells, their study remains limited by the scarcity of available tools allowing to manipulate condensates in a spatial manner. To fill this gap, we reconstitute in cellula a minimal RNP transport system based on bioengineered condensates, which were functionalized with kinesins and dynein-like motors, allowing for their positioning at either the cell periphery or centrosomes. This targeting mostly occurs through the active transport of the condensate scaffolds, which leads to localized nucleation of phase-separated condensates. Then, programming the condensates to recruit specific mRNAs is able to shift the localization of these mRNAs toward the cell periphery or the centrosomes. Our method opens novel perspectives for examining the role of RNA localization as a driver of cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Cochard
- Department of Chemistry, École Normale SupérieurePSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRSParisFrance
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris‐Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire de Biologie du DéveloppementParisFrance
| | - Adham Safieddine
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris‐Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire de Biologie du DéveloppementParisFrance
| | - Pauline Combe
- Department of Chemistry, École Normale SupérieurePSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRSParisFrance
| | - Marie‐Noëlle Benassy
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris‐Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire de Biologie du DéveloppementParisFrance
| | - Dominique Weil
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Paris‐Seine (IBPS), Laboratoire de Biologie du DéveloppementParisFrance
| | - Zoher Gueroui
- Department of Chemistry, École Normale SupérieurePSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRSParisFrance
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6
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Xu Y, Wang B, Bush I, Saunders HAJ, Wildonger J, Han C. Light-induced trapping of endogenous proteins reveals spatiotemporal roles of microtubule and kinesin-1 in dendrite patterning of Drosophila sensory neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.30.560303. [PMID: 37873262 PMCID: PMC10592855 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.30.560303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Animal development involves numerous molecular events, whose spatiotemporal properties largely determine the biological outcomes. Conventional methods for studying gene function lack the necessary spatiotemporal resolution for precise dissection of developmental mechanisms. Optogenetic approaches are powerful alternatives, but most existing tools rely on exogenous designer proteins that produce narrow outputs and cannot be applied to diverse or endogenous proteins. To address this limitation, we developed OptoTrap, a light-inducible protein trapping system that allows manipulation of endogenous proteins tagged with GFP or split GFP. This system turns on fast and is reversible in minutes or hours. We generated OptoTrap variants optimized for neurons and epithelial cells and demonstrate effective trapping of endogenous proteins of diverse sizes, subcellular locations, and functions. Furthermore, OptoTrap allowed us to instantly disrupt microtubules and inhibit the kinesin-1 motor in specific dendritic branches of Drosophila sensory neurons. Using OptoTrap, we obtained direct evidence that microtubules support the growth of highly dynamic dendrites. Similarly, targeted manipulation of Kinesin heavy chain revealed differential spatiotemporal requirements of kinesin-1 in the patterning of low- and high-order dendritic branches, suggesting that different cargos are needed for the growth of these branches. OptoTrap allows for precise manipulation of endogenous proteins in a spatiotemporal manner and thus holds great promise for studying developmental mechanisms in a wide range of cell types and developmental stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yineng Xu
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Bei Wang
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Inle Bush
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Harriet AJ Saunders
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 440 Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jill Wildonger
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 440 Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Pediatrics Department and Biological Sciences Division, Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Chun Han
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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7
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Truong MA, Cané-Gasull P, Lens SMA. Modeling specific aneuploidies: from karyotype manipulations to biological insights. Chromosome Res 2023; 31:25. [PMID: 37640903 PMCID: PMC10462580 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-023-09735-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
An abnormal chromosome number, or aneuploidy, underlies developmental disorders and is a common feature of cancer, with different cancer types exhibiting distinct patterns of chromosomal gains and losses. To understand how specific aneuploidies emerge in certain tissues and how they contribute to disease development, various methods have been developed to alter the karyotype of mammalian cells and mice. In this review, we provide an overview of both classic and novel strategies for inducing or selecting specific chromosomal gains and losses in human and murine cell systems. We highlight how these customized aneuploidy models helped expanding our knowledge of the consequences of specific aneuploidies to (cancer) cell physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- My Anh Truong
- Oncode Institute and Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584, CG, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paula Cané-Gasull
- Oncode Institute and Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584, CG, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne M A Lens
- Oncode Institute and Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584, CG, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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8
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Achimovich AM, Yan T, Gahlmann A. Dimerization of iLID optogenetic proteins observed using 3D single-molecule tracking in live E. coli. Biophys J 2023; 122:3254-3267. [PMID: 37421134 PMCID: PMC10465707 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.07.003] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
3D single-molecule tracking microscopy has enabled measurements of protein diffusion in living cells, offering information about protein dynamics and cellular environments. For example, different diffusive states can be resolved and assigned to protein complexes of different size and composition. However, substantial statistical power and biological validation, often through genetic deletion of binding partners, are required to support diffusive state assignments. When investigating cellular processes, real-time perturbations to protein spatial distributions is preferable to permanent genetic deletion of an essential protein. For example, optogenetic dimerization systems can be used to manipulate protein spatial distributions that could offer a means to deplete specific diffusive states observed in single-molecule tracking experiments. Here, we evaluate the performance of the iLID optogenetic system in living E. coli cells using diffraction-limited microscopy and 3D single-molecule tracking. We observed a robust optogenetic response in protein spatial distributions after 488 nm laser activation. Surprisingly, 3D single-molecule tracking results indicate activation of the optogenetic response when illuminating with high-intensity light with wavelengths at which there is minimal photon absorbance by the LOV2 domain. The preactivation can be minimized through the use of iLID system mutants, and titration of protein expression levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alecia M Achimovich
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Ting Yan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Andreas Gahlmann
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia; Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.
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9
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Nagasawa Y, Ueda HH, Kawabata H, Murakoshi H. LOV2-based photoactivatable CaMKII and its application to single synapses: Local Optogenetics. Biophys Physicobiol 2023; 20:e200027. [PMID: 38496236 PMCID: PMC10941968 DOI: 10.2142/biophysico.bppb-v20.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques offer a high spatiotemporal resolution to manipulate cellular activity. For instance, Channelrhodopsin-2 with global light illumination is the most widely used to control neuronal activity at the cellular level. However, the cellular scale is much larger than the diffraction limit of light (<1 μm) and does not fully exploit the features of the "high spatial resolution" of optogenetics. For instance, until recently, there were no optogenetic methods to induce synaptic plasticity at the level of single synapses. To address this, we developed an optogenetic tool named photoactivatable CaMKII (paCaMKII) by fusing a light-sensitive domain (LOV2) to CaMKIIα, which is a protein abundantly expressed in neurons of the cerebrum and hippocampus and essential for synaptic plasticity. Combining photoactivatable CaMKII with two-photon excitation, we successfully activated it in single spines, inducing synaptic plasticity (long-term potentiation) in hippocampal neurons. We refer to this method as "Local Optogenetics", which involves the local activation of molecules and measurement of cellular responses. In this review, we will discuss the characteristics of LOV2, the recent development of its derivatives, and the development and application of paCaMKII.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaro Nagasawa
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Hiromi H Ueda
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Haruka Kawabata
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Hideji Murakoshi
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
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10
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Jansen KI, Iwanski MK, Burute M, Kapitein LC. A live-cell marker to visualize the dynamics of stable microtubules throughout the cell cycle. J Cell Biol 2023; 222:213914. [PMID: 36880745 PMCID: PMC9998657 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202106105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton underlies processes such as intracellular transport and cell division. Immunolabeling for posttranslational modifications of tubulin has revealed the presence of different MT subsets, which are believed to differ in stability and function. Whereas dynamic MTs can readily be studied using live-cell plus-end markers, the dynamics of stable MTs have remained obscure due to a lack of tools to directly visualize these MTs in living cells. Here, we present StableMARK (Stable Microtubule-Associated Rigor-Kinesin), a live-cell marker to visualize stable MTs with high spatiotemporal resolution. We demonstrate that a rigor mutant of Kinesin-1 selectively binds to stable MTs without affecting MT organization and organelle transport. These MTs are long-lived, undergo continuous remodeling, and often do not depolymerize upon laser-based severing. Using this marker, we could visualize the spatiotemporal regulation of MT stability before, during, and after cell division. Thus, this live-cell marker enables the exploration of different MT subsets and how they contribute to cellular organization and transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara I Jansen
- Department of Biology, Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University , Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Malina K Iwanski
- Department of Biology, Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University , Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Mithila Burute
- Department of Biology, Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University , Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Lukas C Kapitein
- Department of Biology, Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University , Utrecht, Netherlands
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11
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Burute M, Jansen KI, Mihajlovic M, Vermonden T, Kapitein LC. Local changes in microtubule network mobility instruct neuronal polarization and axon specification. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabo2343. [PMID: 36332030 PMCID: PMC9635826 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abo2343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The polarization of neurons into axons and dendrites depends on extracellular cues, intracellular signaling, cytoskeletal rearrangements, and polarized transport, but the interplay between these processes during polarization remains unresolved. Here, we show that axon specification is determined by differences in microtubule network mobility between neurites, regulated by Rho guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) and extracellular cues. In developing neurons, retrograde microtubule flow prevents the entry of the axon-selective motor protein Kinesin-1 into most neurites. Using inducible assays to control microtubule network flow, we demonstrate that local inhibition of microtubule mobility is sufficient to guide Kinesin-1 into a specific neurite, whereas long-term global inhibition induces the formation of multiple axons. We furthermore show that extracellular mechanical cues and intracellular Rho GTPase signaling control the local differences in microtubule network flow. These results reveal a novel cytoskeletal mechanism for neuronal polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mithila Burute
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Klara I. Jansen
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marko Mihajlovic
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Science for Life, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3508 TB Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Tina Vermonden
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Science for Life, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3508 TB Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Lukas C. Kapitein
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
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12
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Meiring JCM, Grigoriev I, Nijenhuis W, Kapitein LC, Akhmanova A. Opto-katanin, an optogenetic tool for localized, microtubule disassembly. Curr Biol 2022; 32:4660-4674.e6. [PMID: 36174574 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Microtubules are cytoskeletal polymers that separate chromosomes during mitosis and serve as rails for intracellular transport and organelle positioning. Manipulation of microtubules is widely used in cell and developmental biology, but tools for precise subcellular spatiotemporal control of microtubules are currently lacking. Here, we describe a light-activated system for localized recruitment of the microtubule-severing enzyme katanin. This system, named opto-katanin, uses targeted illumination with blue light to induce rapid, localized, and reversible microtubule depolymerization. This tool allows precise clearing of a subcellular region of microtubules while preserving the rest of the microtubule network, demonstrating that regulation of katanin recruitment to microtubules is sufficient to control its severing activity. The tool is not toxic in the absence of blue light and can be used to disassemble both dynamic and stable microtubules in primary neurons as well as in dividing cells. We show that opto-katanin can be used to locally block vesicle transport and to clarify the dependence of organelle morphology and dynamics on microtubules. Specifically, our data indicate that microtubules are not required for the maintenance of the Golgi stacks or the tubules of the endoplasmic reticulum but are needed for the formation of new membrane tubules. Finally, we demonstrate that this tool can be applied to study the contribution of microtubules to cell mechanics by showing that microtubule bundles can exert forces constricting the nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce C M Meiring
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan, Utrecht 3584 CS, the Netherlands
| | - Ilya Grigoriev
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan, Utrecht 3584 CS, the Netherlands
| | - Wilco Nijenhuis
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan, Utrecht 3584 CS, the Netherlands; Center for Living Technologies, Eindhoven-Wageningen-Utrecht Alliance, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CB, the Netherlands
| | - Lukas C Kapitein
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan, Utrecht 3584 CS, the Netherlands; Center for Living Technologies, Eindhoven-Wageningen-Utrecht Alliance, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CB, the Netherlands
| | - Anna Akhmanova
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan, Utrecht 3584 CS, the Netherlands.
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13
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Chen F, Wu J, Iwanski MK, Jurriens D, Sandron A, Pasolli M, Puma G, Kromhout JZ, Yang C, Nijenhuis W, Kapitein LC, Berger F, Akhmanova A. Self-assembly of pericentriolar material in interphase cells lacking centrioles. eLife 2022; 11:77892. [PMID: 35787744 PMCID: PMC9307276 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77892] [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: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The major microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) in animal cells, the centrosome, comprises a pair of centrioles surrounded by pericentriolar material (PCM), which nucleates and anchors microtubules. Centrosome assembly depends on PCM binding to centrioles, PCM self-association and dynein-mediated PCM transport, but the self-assembly properties of PCM components in interphase cells are poorly understood. Here, we used experiments and modeling to study centriole-independent features of interphase PCM assembly. We showed that when centrioles are lost due to PLK4 depletion or inhibition, dynein-based transport and self-clustering of PCM proteins are sufficient to form a single compact MTOC, which generates a dense radial microtubule array. Interphase self-assembly of PCM components depends on γ-tubulin, pericentrin, CDK5RAP2 and ninein, but not NEDD1, CEP152, or CEP192. Formation of a compact acentriolar MTOC is inhibited by AKAP450-dependent PCM recruitment to the Golgi or by randomly organized CAMSAP2-stabilized microtubules, which keep PCM mobile and prevent its coalescence. Linking of CAMSAP2 to a minus-end-directed motor leads to the formation of an MTOC, but MTOC compaction requires cooperation with pericentrin-containing self-clustering PCM. Our data reveal that interphase PCM contains a set of components that can self-assemble into a compact structure and organize microtubules, but PCM self-organization is sensitive to motor- and microtubule-based rearrangement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangrui Chen
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jingchao Wu
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Daphne Jurriens
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Arianna Sandron
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Milena Pasolli
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Gianmarco Puma
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Chao Yang
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Wilco Nijenhuis
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Florian Berger
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Anna Akhmanova
- Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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14
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Impastato AC, Shemet A, Vepřek NA, Saper G, Rao L, Hess H, Gennerich A, Trauner D. Optical Control of Mitosis with a Photoswitchable Eg5 Inhibitor. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202115846. [PMID: 34958711 PMCID: PMC9533678 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202115846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Eg5 is a kinesin motor protein that is responsible for bipolar spindle formation and plays a crucial role during mitosis. Loss of Eg5 function leads to the formation of monopolar spindles, followed by mitotic arrest, and subsequent cell death. Several cell-permeable small molecules have been reported to inhibit Eg5 and some have been evaluated as anticancer agents. We now describe the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of photoswitchable variants with five different pharmacophores. Our lead compound Azo-EMD is a cell permeable azobenzene that inhibits Eg5 more potently in its light-induced cis form. This activity decreased the velocity of Eg5 in single-molecule assays, promoted formation of monopolar spindles, and led to mitotic arrest in a light dependent way.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrej Shemet
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, 10003, USA
| | - Nynke A. Vepřek
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, 10003, USA,Department of Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Gadiel Saper
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, 10025, USA
| | - Lu Rao
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, 10461, USA
| | - Henry Hess
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, 10025, USA
| | - Arne Gennerich
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, 10461, USA
| | - Dirk Trauner
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, 10003, USA
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15
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Lu W, Lakonishok M, Serpinskaya AS, Gelfand VI. A novel mechanism of bulk cytoplasmic transport by cortical dynein in Drosophila ovary. eLife 2022; 11:75538. [PMID: 35170428 PMCID: PMC8896832 DOI: 10.7554/elife.75538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytoplasmic dynein, a major minus-end directed microtubule motor, plays essential roles in eukaryotic cells. Drosophila oocyte growth is mainly dependent on the contribution of cytoplasmic contents from the interconnected sister cells, nurse cells. We have previously shown that cytoplasmic dynein is required for Drosophila oocyte growth and assumed that it simply transports cargoes along microtubule tracks from nurse cells to the oocyte. Here, we report that instead of transporting individual cargoes along stationary microtubules into the oocyte, cortical dynein actively moves microtubules within nurse cells and from nurse cells to the oocyte via the cytoplasmic bridges, the ring canals. This robust microtubule movement is sufficient to drag even inert cytoplasmic particles through the ring canals to the oocyte. Furthermore, replacing dynein with a minus-end directed plant kinesin linked to the actin cortex is sufficient for transporting organelles and cytoplasm to the oocyte and driving its growth. These experiments show that cortical dynein performs bulk cytoplasmic transport by gliding microtubules along the cell cortex and through the ring canals to the oocyte. We propose that the dynein-driven microtubule flow could serve as a novel mode of fast cytoplasmic transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Lu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, United States
| | - Margot Lakonishok
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, United States
| | - Anna S Serpinskaya
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, United States
| | - Vladimir I Gelfand
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, United States
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16
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Abstract
Optogenetics combines light and genetics to enable precise control of living cells, tissues, and organisms with tailored functions. Optogenetics has the advantages of noninvasiveness, rapid responsiveness, tunable reversibility, and superior spatiotemporal resolution. Following the initial discovery of microbial opsins as light-actuated ion channels, a plethora of naturally occurring or engineered photoreceptors or photosensitive domains that respond to light at varying wavelengths has ushered in the next chapter of optogenetics. Through protein engineering and synthetic biology approaches, genetically-encoded photoswitches can be modularly engineered into protein scaffolds or host cells to control a myriad of biological processes, as well as to enable behavioral control and disease intervention in vivo. Here, we summarize these optogenetic tools on the basis of their fundamental photochemical properties to better inform the chemical basis and design principles. We also highlight exemplary applications of opsin-free optogenetics in dissecting cellular physiology (designated "optophysiology"), and describe the current progress, as well as future trends, in wireless optogenetics, which enables remote interrogation of physiological processes with minimal invasiveness. This review is anticipated to spark novel thoughts on engineering next-generation optogenetic tools and devices that promise to accelerate both basic and translational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Tan
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States.,Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Lian He
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Yun Huang
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, United States.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, United States
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17
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Impastato AC, Shemet A, Vepřek NA, Saper G, Hess H, Rao L, Gennerich A, Trauner D. Optical Control of Mitosis with a Photoswitchable Eg5 Inhibitor. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202115846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrej Shemet
- Department of Chemistry New York University New York 10003 USA
| | - Nynke A. Vepřek
- Department of Chemistry New York University New York 10003 USA
- Department of Chemistry Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich 81377 Munich Germany
| | - Gadiel Saper
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Columbia University New York 10025 USA
| | - Henry Hess
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Columbia University New York 10025 USA
| | - Lu Rao
- Department of Biochemistry Albert Einstein College of Medicine New York 10461 USA
| | - Arne Gennerich
- Department of Biochemistry Albert Einstein College of Medicine New York 10461 USA
| | - Dirk Trauner
- Department of Chemistry New York University New York 10003 USA
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18
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Hyeon B, Nguyen MK, Do Heo W. Optogenetic Control of Membrane Trafficking Using Light-Activated Reversible Inhibition by Assembly Trap of Intracellular Membranes (IM-LARIAT). Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2473:309-331. [PMID: 35819773 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2209-4_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular membrane trafficking is a dynamic and complex cellular process. To study membrane trafficking with a high spatiotemporal resolution, we present an optogenetic method based on a blue-light inducible oligomerization of Rab GTPases, termed light-activated reversible inhibition by assembly trap of intracellular membranes (IM-LARIAT). In this chapter, we focus on the optical disruption of the dynamics and functions of previously studied intracellular membrane trafficking events, including transferrin recycling and growth cone regulation in relation to specific Rab GTPases. To aid general application, we provide a detailed description of transfection, imaging with a confocal microscope, and analysis of data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobae Hyeon
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Mai Khanh Nguyen
- Abcam Fremont Technology Development Custom Solution, Fremont, CA, USA
| | - Won Do Heo
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea.
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea.
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19
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Lu M, Ward E, van Tartwijk FW, Kaminski CF. Advances in the study of organelle interactions and their role in neurodegenerative diseases enabled by super-resolution microscopy. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 159:105475. [PMID: 34390833 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
From the first illustrations of neuronal morphology by Ramón y Cajal to the recent three-dimensional reconstruction of synaptic connections, the development of modern neuroscience has greatly benefited from breakthroughs in imaging technology. This also applies specifically to the study of neurodegenerative diseases. Much of the research into these diseases relies on the direct visualisation of intracellular structures and their dynamics in degenerating neural cells, which cannot be fully resolved by diffraction-limited microscopes. Progress in the field has therefore been closely linked to the development of super-resolution imaging methods. Their application has greatly advanced our understanding of disease mechanisms, ranging from the structural progression of protein aggregates to defects in organelle morphology. Recent super-resolution studies have specifically implicated the disruption of inter-organelle interactions in multiple neurodegenerative diseases. In this article, we describe some of the key super-resolution techniques that have contributed to this field. We then discuss work to visualise changes in the structure and dynamics of organelles and associated dysfunctions. Finally, we consider what future developments in imaging technology may further our knowledge of these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Lu
- Cambridge Infinitus Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK; Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Edward Ward
- Cambridge Infinitus Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK; Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Francesca W van Tartwijk
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Clemens F Kaminski
- Cambridge Infinitus Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK; Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK; UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK.
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20
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Multiple layers of spatial regulation coordinate axonal cargo transport. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2021; 69:241-246. [PMID: 34171618 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2021.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Nerve axons are shaped similar to long electric wires to quickly transmit information from one end of the body to the other. To remain healthy and functional, axons depend on a wide range of cellular cargos to be transported from the neuronal cell body to its distal processes. Because of the extended distance, a sophisticated and well-organized trafficking network is required to move cargos up and down the axon. Besides motor proteins driving cargo transport, recent data revealed that subcellular membrane specializations, including the axon initial segment at the beginning of the axon and the membrane-associated periodic skeleton, which extends throughout the axonal length, are important spatial regulators of cargo traffic. In addition, tubulin modifications and microtubule-associated proteins present along the axonal cytoskeleton have been proposed to bias cargo movements. Here, we discuss the recent advances in understanding these multiple layers of regulatory mechanisms controlling axonal transport.
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21
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Oh TJ, Fan H, Skeeters SS, Zhang K. Steering Molecular Activity with Optogenetics: Recent Advances and Perspectives. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 5:e2000180. [PMID: 34028216 PMCID: PMC8218620 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202000180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Optogenetics utilizes photosensitive proteins to manipulate the localization and interaction of molecules in living cells. Because light can be rapidly switched and conveniently confined to the sub-micrometer scale, optogenetics allows for controlling cellular events with an unprecedented resolution in time and space. The past decade has witnessed an enormous progress in the field of optogenetics within the biological sciences. The ever-increasing amount of optogenetic tools, however, can overwhelm the selection of appropriate optogenetic strategies. Considering that each optogenetic tool may have a distinct mode of action, a comparative analysis of the current optogenetic toolbox can promote the further use of optogenetics, especially by researchers new to this field. This review provides such a compilation that highlights the spatiotemporal accuracy of current optogenetic systems. Recent advances of optogenetics in live cells and animal models are summarized, the emerging work that interlinks optogenetics with other research fields is presented, and exciting clinical and industrial efforts to employ optogenetic strategy toward disease intervention are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teak-Jung Oh
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Huaxun Fan
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Savanna S Skeeters
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Kai Zhang
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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22
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Erdogan B, Whited JL. Engineered myosins drive filopodial transport. Nat Cell Biol 2021; 23:113-115. [PMID: 33526903 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-021-00632-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Erdogan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jessica L Whited
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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23
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Dansen TB, De Henau S. Modulating organelle distribution using light-inducible heterodimerization in C. elegans. STAR Protoc 2021; 2:100273. [PMID: 33490987 PMCID: PMC7811173 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2020.100273] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The relative positioning of organelles underlies fundamental cellular processes, including signaling, polarization, and cellular growth. Here, we describe the usage of a light-dependent heterodimerization system, LOVpep-ePDZ, to alter organelle positioning locally and reversibly in order to study the functional consequences of organelle positioning. The protocol gives details on how to accomplish expression of fusion proteins encoding this system, describes the imaging parameters to achieve subcellular activation in C. elegans, and may be adapted for use in other model systems. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to De Henau et al. (2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias B. Dansen
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Molecular Cancer Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sasha De Henau
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Molecular Cancer Research, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, the Netherlands
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24
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From observing to controlling: Inducible control of organelle dynamics and interactions. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2021; 71:69-76. [PMID: 33706236 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The dynamics and interactions of cellular organelles underlie many aspects of cellular functioning. Until recently, assessment of organelle dynamics has been primarily observational or required whole-cell perturbations to assess the implications of altered organelle motility and positioning. However, thanks to recently developed and optimized intervention strategies, we now have the ability to control organelles in their unperturbed state, altering organelle positioning, membrane trafficking pathways, as well as organelle interactions. This can be performed both globally and locally, giving fine control over the range, reversibility, and extent of organelle dynamics. Here, we describe how these tools are currently used for controlling organelles and give insight into the exciting future of this emerging field.
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25
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Benedetti L. Optogenetic Tools for Manipulating Protein Subcellular Localization and Intracellular Signaling at Organelle Contact Sites. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e71. [PMID: 33657274 PMCID: PMC7954661 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular signaling processes are frequently based on direct interactions between proteins and organelles. A fundamental strategy to elucidate the physiological significance of such interactions is to utilize optical dimerization tools. These tools are based on the use of small proteins or domains that interact with each other upon light illumination. Optical dimerizers are particularly suitable for reproducing and interrogating a given protein-protein interaction and for investigating a protein's intracellular role in a spatially and temporally precise manner. Described in this article are genetic engineering strategies for the generation of modular light-activatable protein dimerization units and instructions for the preparation of optogenetic applications in mammalian cells. Detailed protocols are provided for the use of light-tunable switches to regulate protein recruitment to intracellular compartments, induce intracellular organellar membrane tethering, and reconstitute protein function using enhanced Magnets (eMags), a recently engineered optical dimerization system. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Genetic engineering strategy for the generation of modular light-activated protein dimerization units Support Protocol 1: Molecular cloning Basic Protocol 2: Cell culture and transfection Support Protocol 2: Production of dark containers for optogenetic samples Basic Protocol 3: Confocal microscopy and light-dependent activation of the dimerization system Alternate Protocol 1: Protein recruitment to intracellular compartments Alternate Protocol 2: Induction of organelles' membrane tethering Alternate Protocol 3: Optogenetic reconstitution of protein function Basic Protocol 4: Image analysis Support Protocol 3: Analysis of apparent on- and off-kinetics Support Protocol 4: Analysis of changes in organelle overlap over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Benedetti
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia
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26
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Siedlik MJ, Yang Z, Kadam PS, Eberwine J, Issadore D. Micro- and Nano-Devices for Studying Subcellular Biology. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2005793. [PMID: 33345457 PMCID: PMC8258219 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202005793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Cells are complex machines whose behaviors arise from their internal collection of dynamically interacting organelles, supramolecular complexes, and cytoplasmic chemicals. The current understanding of the nature by which subcellular biology produces cell-level behaviors is limited by the technological hurdle of measuring the large number (>103 ) of small-sized (<1 μm) heterogeneous organelles and subcellular structures found within each cell. In this review, the emergence of a suite of micro- and nano-technologies for studying intracellular biology on the scale of organelles is described. Devices that use microfluidic and microelectronic components for 1) extracting and isolating subcellular structures from cells and lysate; 2) analyzing the physiology of individual organelles; and 3) recreating subcellular assembly and functions in vitro, are described. The authors envision that the continued development of single organelle technologies and analyses will serve as a foundation for organelle systems biology and will allow new insight into fundamental and clinically relevant biological questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Siedlik
- Department of Bioengineering, 335 Skirkanich Hall, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Zijian Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Science, 335 Skirkanich Hall, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Parnika S Kadam
- Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, 38 John Morgan Building, University of Pennsylvania, 3620 Hamilton Walk, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - James Eberwine
- Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, 38 John Morgan Building, University of Pennsylvania, 3620 Hamilton Walk, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - David Issadore
- Department of Bioengineering, 335 Skirkanich Hall, University of Pennsylvania, 210 South 33rd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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27
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Lu M, van Tartwijk FW, Lin JQ, Nijenhuis W, Parutto P, Fantham M, Christensen CN, Avezov E, Holt CE, Tunnacliffe A, Holcman D, Kapitein L, Schierle GSK, Kaminski CF. The structure and global distribution of the endoplasmic reticulum network are actively regulated by lysosomes. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eabc7209. [PMID: 33328230 PMCID: PMC7744115 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abc7209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) comprises morphologically and functionally distinct domains: sheets and interconnected tubules. These domains undergo dynamic reshaping in response to changes in the cellular environment. However, the mechanisms behind this rapid remodeling are largely unknown. Here, we report that ER remodeling is actively driven by lysosomes, following lysosome repositioning in response to changes in nutritional status: The anchorage of lysosomes to ER growth tips is critical for ER tubule elongation and connection. We validate this causal link via the chemo- and optogenetically driven repositioning of lysosomes, which leads to both a redistribution of the ER tubules and a change of its global morphology. Therefore, lysosomes sense metabolic change in the cell and regulate ER tubule distribution accordingly. Dysfunction in this mechanism during axonal extension may lead to axonal growth defects. Our results demonstrate a critical role of lysosome-regulated ER dynamics and reshaping in nutrient responses and neuronal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Lu
- Cambridge Infinitus Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Francesca W van Tartwijk
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Julie Qiaojin Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
| | - Wilco Nijenhuis
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Pierre Parutto
- Group of Computational Biology and Applied Mathematics, Institut de Biologie de l'École Normale Supérieure-PSL, 46 rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Marcus Fantham
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Charles N Christensen
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Edward Avezov
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
| | - Christine E Holt
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Alan Tunnacliffe
- Cambridge Infinitus Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - David Holcman
- Group of Computational Biology and Applied Mathematics, Institut de Biologie de l'École Normale Supérieure-PSL, 46 rue d'Ulm, 75005 Paris, France
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0WA, UK
| | - Lukas Kapitein
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Gabriele S Kaminski Schierle
- Cambridge Infinitus Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Clemens F Kaminski
- Cambridge Infinitus Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK.
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at the University of Cambridge and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
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28
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Benedetti L, Marvin JS, Falahati H, Guillén-Samander A, Looger LL, De Camilli P. Optimized Vivid-derived Magnets photodimerizers for subcellular optogenetics in mammalian cells. eLife 2020; 9:e63230. [PMID: 33174843 PMCID: PMC7735757 DOI: 10.7554/elife.63230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Light-inducible dimerization protein modules enable precise temporal and spatial control of biological processes in non-invasive fashion. Among them, Magnets are small modules engineered from the Neurospora crassa photoreceptor Vivid by orthogonalizing the homodimerization interface into complementary heterodimers. Both Magnets components, which are well-tolerated as protein fusion partners, are photoreceptors requiring simultaneous photoactivation to interact, enabling high spatiotemporal confinement of dimerization with a single excitation wavelength. However, Magnets require concatemerization for efficient responses and cell preincubation at 28°C to be functional. Here we overcome these limitations by engineering an optimized Magnets pair requiring neither concatemerization nor low temperature preincubation. We validated these 'enhanced' Magnets (eMags) by using them to rapidly and reversibly recruit proteins to subcellular organelles, to induce organelle contacts, and to reconstitute OSBP-VAP ER-Golgi tethering implicated in phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate transport and metabolism. eMags represent a very effective tool to optogenetically manipulate physiological processes over whole cells or in small subcellular volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Benedetti
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Jonathan S Marvin
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Janelia Research CampusAshburnUnited States
| | - Hanieh Falahati
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Andres Guillén-Samander
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Loren L Looger
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Janelia Research CampusAshburnUnited States
| | - Pietro De Camilli
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration and Repair, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
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29
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York HM, Coyle J, Arumugam S. To be more precise: the role of intracellular trafficking in development and pattern formation. Biochem Soc Trans 2020; 48:2051-2066. [PMID: 32915197 PMCID: PMC7609031 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Living cells interpret a variety of signals in different contexts to elucidate functional responses. While the understanding of signalling molecules, their respective receptors and response at the gene transcription level have been relatively well-explored, how exactly does a single cell interpret a plethora of time-varying signals? Furthermore, how their subsequent responses at the single cell level manifest in the larger context of a developing tissue is unknown. At the same time, the biophysics and chemistry of how receptors are trafficked through the complex dynamic transport network between the plasma membrane-endosome-lysosome-Golgi-endoplasmic reticulum are much more well-studied. How the intracellular organisation of the cell and inter-organellar contacts aid in orchestrating trafficking, as well as signal interpretation and modulation by the cells are beginning to be uncovered. In this review, we highlight the significant developments that have strived to integrate endosomal trafficking, signal interpretation in the context of developmental biology and relevant open questions with a few chosen examples. Furthermore, we will discuss the imaging technologies that have been developed in the recent past that have the potential to tremendously accelerate knowledge gain in this direction while shedding light on some of the many challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison M. York
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Joanne Coyle
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Senthil Arumugam
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- European Molecular Biological Laboratory Australia (EMBL Australia), Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
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30
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Wittmann T, Dema A, van Haren J. Lights, cytoskeleton, action: Optogenetic control of cell dynamics. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2020; 66:1-10. [PMID: 32371345 PMCID: PMC7577957 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Cell biology is moving from observing molecules to controlling them in real time, a critical step towards a mechanistic understanding of how cells work. Initially developed from light-gated ion channels to control neuron activity, optogenetics now describes any genetically encoded protein system designed to accomplish specific light-mediated tasks. Recent photosensitive switches use many ingenious designs that bring spatial and temporal control within reach for almost any protein or pathway of interest. This next generation optogenetics includes light-controlled protein-protein interactions and shape-shifting photosensors, which in combination with live microscopy enable acute modulation and analysis of dynamic protein functions in living cells. We provide a brief overview of various types of optogenetic switches. We then discuss how diverse approaches have been used to control cytoskeleton dynamics with light through Rho GTPase signaling, microtubule and actin assembly, mitotic spindle positioning and intracellular transport and highlight advantages and limitations of different experimental strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Wittmann
- Department of Cell & Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
| | - Alessandro Dema
- Department of Cell & Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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31
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Photoswitchable paclitaxel-based microtubule stabilisers allow optical control over the microtubule cytoskeleton. Nat Commun 2020; 11:4640. [PMID: 32934232 PMCID: PMC7493900 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18389-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Small molecule inhibitors are prime reagents for studies in microtubule cytoskeleton research, being applicable across a range of biological models and not requiring genetic engineering. However, traditional chemical inhibitors cannot be experimentally applied with spatiotemporal precision suiting the length and time scales inherent to microtubule-dependent cellular processes. We have synthesised photoswitchable paclitaxel-based microtubule stabilisers, whose binding is induced by photoisomerisation to their metastable state. Photoisomerising these reagents in living cells allows optical control over microtubule network integrity and dynamics, cell division and survival, with biological response on the timescale of seconds and spatial precision to the level of individual cells within a population. In primary neurons, they enable regulation of microtubule dynamics resolved to subcellular regions within individual neurites. These azobenzene-based microtubule stabilisers thus enable non-invasive, spatiotemporally precise modulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton in living cells, and promise new possibilities for studying intracellular transport, cell motility, and neuronal physiology. Light-based modulation of the microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton is an attractive goal for spatiotemporally-resolved MT studies. Here the authors develop a first generation photoswitchable small molecule MT stabiliser based on paclitaxel, allowing optical control over cellular MT dynamics.
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