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Abe T, Suzuki Y, Ikeya T, Hirota K. Targeting chromosome trisomy for chromosome editing. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18054. [PMID: 34508128 PMCID: PMC8433146 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97580-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
A trisomy is a type of aneuploidy characterised by an additional chromosome. The additional chromosome theoretically accepts any kind of changes since it is not necessary for cellular proliferation. This advantage led us to apply two chromosome manipulation methods to autosomal trisomy in chicken DT40 cells. We first corrected chromosome 2 trisomy to disomy by employing counter-selection markers. Upon construction of cells carrying markers targeted in one of the trisomic chromosome 2s, cells that have lost markers integrated in chromosome 2 were subsequently selected. The loss of one of the chromosome 2s had little impacts on the proliferative capacity, indicating unsubstantial role of the additional chromosome 2 in DT40 cells. We next tested large-scale truncations of chromosome 2 to make a mini-chromosome for the assessment of chromosome stability by introducing telomere repeat sequences to delete most of p-arm or q-arm of chromosome 2. The obtained cell lines had 0.7 Mb mini-chromosome, and approximately 0.2% of mini-chromosome was lost per cell division in wild-type background while the rate of chromosome loss was significantly increased by the depletion of DDX11, a cohesin regulatory protein. Collectively, our findings propose that trisomic chromosomes are good targets to make unique artificial chromosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Abe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minamiosawa 1-1, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan.
| | - Yuya Suzuki
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minamiosawa 1-1, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan
| | - Teppei Ikeya
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minamiosawa 1-1, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan
| | - Kouji Hirota
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Minamiosawa 1-1, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan
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2
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Liskovykh M, Larionov V, Kouprina N. Highly Efficient Microcell-Mediated Transfer of HACs Containing a Genomic Region of Interest into Mammalian Cells. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e236. [PMID: 34491634 PMCID: PMC10758282 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) are considered promising tools for gene delivery, functional analyses, and gene therapy. HACs have the potential to overcome many of the problems caused by the use of viral-based gene transfer systems, such as limited cloning capacity, lack of copy number control, and insertional mutagenesis during integration into host chromosomes. The recently developed alphoidtetO -HAC has an advantage over other HAC vectors because it can be easily eliminated from dividing cells by inactivation of its conditional kinetochore. This provides a unique control mechanism to study phenotypes induced by a gene or genes carried on the HAC. The alphoidtetO -HAC has a single gene acceptor loxP site that allows insertion of an individual gene of interest or a cluster of genes of up to several Mb in size in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) hybrid cells. The HACs carrying chromosomal copies of genes can then be transferred from these donor CHO cells to different recipient cells of interest via microcell-mediated chromosome transfer (MMCT). Here, we describe a detailed protocol for loading a gene of interest into the alphoidtetO -HAC vector and for the subsequent transfer of the HAC to recipient cells using an improved MMCT protocol. The original MMCT protocol includes treatment of donor cells with colcemid to induce micronucleation, wherein the HAC becomes surrounded with a nuclear membrane. That step is followed by disarrangement of the actin cytoskeleton using cytochalasin B to help induce microcell formation. The updated MMCT protocol, described here, features the replacement of colcemid and cytochalasin B with TN16 + griseofulvin and latrunculin B, respectively, and the use of collagen/laminin surface coating to promote attachment of metaphase cells to plates during micronuclei induction. These modifications increase the efficiency of HAC transfer to recipient cells ten fold. The improved MMCT protocol has been successfully tested on several recipient cell lines, including human mesenchymal stem cells and mouse embryonic stem cells. © 2021 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Insertion of a BAC containing a gene of interest into a single loxP loading site of alphoidtetO -HAC in hamster CHO cells Basic Protocol 2: Microcell-mediated chromosome transfer from donor hamster CHO cells to mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Liskovykh
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Natalay Kouprina
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Grazioli S, Petris G. Synthetic genomics for curing genetic diseases. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 182:477-520. [PMID: 34175051 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
From the beginning of the genome sequencing era, it has become increasingly evident that genetics plays a role in all diseases, of which only a minority are single-gene disorders, the most common target of current gene therapies. However, the majority of people have some kind of health problems resulting from congenital genetic mutations (over 6000 diseases have been associated to genes, https://www.omim.org/statistics/geneMap) and most genetic disorders are rare and only incompletely understood. The vision and techniques applied to the synthesis of genomes may help to address unmet medical needs from a chromosome and genome-scale perspective. In this chapter, we address the potential therapy of genetic diseases from a different outlook, in which we no longer focus on small gene corrections but on higher-order tools for genome manipulation. These will play a crucial role in the next years, as they prelude to a much deeper understanding of the architecture of the human genome and a more accurate modeling of human diseases, offering new therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gianluca Petris
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology (MRC LMB), Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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4
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Centromere identity and function put to use: construction and transfer of mammalian artificial chromosomes to animal models. Essays Biochem 2021; 64:185-192. [PMID: 32501473 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20190071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian artificial chromosomes (MACs) are widely used as gene expression vectors and have various advantages over conventional expression vectors. We review and discuss breakthroughs in MAC construction, initiation of functional centromeres allowing their faithful inheritance, and transfer from cell culture to animal model systems. These advances have contributed to advancements in synthetic biology, biomedical research, and applications in industry and in the clinic.
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Brown DM, Glass JI. Technology used to build and transfer mammalian chromosomes. Exp Cell Res 2020; 388:111851. [PMID: 31952951 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.111851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In the near twenty-year existence of the human and mammalian artificial chromosome field, the technologies for artificial chromosome construction and installation into desired cell types or organisms have evolved with the rest of modern molecular and synthetic biology. Medical, industrial, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and basic research scientists seek the as yet unrealized promise of human and mammalian artificial chromosomes. Existing technologies for both top-down and bottom-up approaches to construct these artificial chromosomes for use in higher eukaryotes are very different but aspire to achieve similar results. New capacity for production of chromosome sized synthetic DNA will likely shift the field towards more bottom-up approaches, but not completely. Similarly, new approaches to install human and mammalian artificial chromosomes in target cells will compete with the microcell mediated cell transfer methods that currently dominate the field.
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Hasegawa Y, Ikeno M, Suzuki N, Nakayama M, Ohara O. Improving the efficiency of gene insertion in a human artificial chromosome vector and its transfer in human-induced pluripotent stem cells. Biol Methods Protoc 2018; 3:bpy013. [PMID: 32161806 PMCID: PMC6994043 DOI: 10.1093/biomethods/bpy013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A human artificial chromosome (HAC) vector has potential to overcome the problems of stable gene expression associated with plasmid, transposon, and virus-based vectors, such as insertional mutagenesis, position effect, uncontrollable copy number, unstable gene expression, and DNA size limitation. The main advantages of the HAC are its episomal nature and ability to accommodate DNA inserts of any size. However, HAC vectors have two disadvantages: low efficiency of gene insertion and lack of reports regarding the successful HAC transfer to human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). We here provide the first report of a method for the efficient transfer of HAC to human iPSCs for obtaining reproducible experimental results. Moreover, we achieved a 10% increase in the gene insertion efficiency in the HAC vector using our new site-specific recombination systems VCre/VloxP and SCre/SloxP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Hasegawa
- Laboratory of Clinical Omics Research, Department of Applied Genomics, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | | | | | - Manabu Nakayama
- Laboratory of Medical Omics Research, Department of Frontier Research and Development, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Osamu Ohara
- Laboratory of Clinical Omics Research, Department of Applied Genomics, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
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Kouprina N, Petrov N, Molina O, Liskovykh M, Pesenti E, Ohzeki JI, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Larionov V. Human Artificial Chromosome with Regulated Centromere: A Tool for Genome and Cancer Studies. ACS Synth Biol 2018; 7:1974-1989. [PMID: 30075081 PMCID: PMC6154217 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.8b00230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Since their description in the late 1990s, Human Artificial Chromosomes (HACs) bearing functional kinetochores have been considered as promising systems for gene delivery and expression. More recently a HAC assembled from a synthetic alphoid DNA array has been exploited in studies of centromeric chromatin and in assessing the impact of different epigenetic modifications on kinetochore structure and function in human cells. This HAC was termed the alphoidtetO-HAC, as the synthetic monomers each contained a tetO sequence in place of the CENP-B box that can be targeted specifically with tetR-fusion proteins. Studies in which the kinetochore chromatin of the alphoidtetO-HAC was specifically modified, revealed that heterochromatin is incompatible with centromere function and that centromeric transcription is important for centromere assembly and maintenance. In addition, the alphoidtetO-HAC was modified to carry large gene inserts that are expressed in target cells under conditions that recapitulate the physiological regulation of endogenous loci. Importantly, the phenotypes arising from stable gene expression can be reversed when cells are "cured" of the HAC by inactivating its kinetochore in proliferating cell populations, a feature that provides a control for phenotypic changes attributed to expression of HAC-encoded genes. AlphoidtetO-HAC-based technology has also been used to develop new drug screening and assessment strategies to manipulate the CIN phenotype in cancer cells. In summary, the alphoidtetO-HAC is proving to be a versatile tool for studying human chromosome transactions and structure as well as for genome and cancer studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalay Kouprina
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States,E-mail: . Tel: +1-240-760-7325
| | - Nikolai Petrov
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States
| | - Oscar Molina
- Josep
Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, School of Medicine, University
of Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mikhail Liskovykh
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States
| | - Elisa Pesenti
- Wellcome
Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, Scotland
| | - Jun-ichirou Ohzeki
- Laboratory
of Chromosome Engineering, Department of Frontier Research and Development, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818d Japan
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory
of Chromosome Engineering, Department of Frontier Research and Development, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818d Japan,E-mail: . Tel: +81-438-52-395
| | - William C. Earnshaw
- Wellcome
Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, Scotland,E-mail: . Tel: +44-(0)131-650-7101
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Developmental
Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute,
NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United
States,E-mail: . Tel: +1-240-760-7325
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8
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McNulty SM, Sullivan BA. Alpha satellite DNA biology: finding function in the recesses of the genome. Chromosome Res 2018; 26:115-138. [PMID: 29974361 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-018-9582-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Repetitive DNA, formerly referred to by the misnomer "junk DNA," comprises a majority of the human genome. One class of this DNA, alpha satellite, comprises up to 10% of the genome. Alpha satellite is enriched at all human centromere regions and is competent for de novo centromere assembly. Because of the highly repetitive nature of alpha satellite, it has been difficult to achieve genome assemblies at centromeres using traditional next-generation sequencing approaches, and thus, centromeres represent gaps in the current human genome assembly. Moreover, alpha satellite DNA is transcribed into repetitive noncoding RNA and contributes to a large portion of the transcriptome. Recent efforts to characterize these transcripts and their function have uncovered pivotal roles for satellite RNA in genome stability, including silencing "selfish" DNA elements and recruiting centromere and kinetochore proteins. This review will describe the genomic and epigenetic features of alpha satellite DNA, discuss recent findings of noncoding transcripts produced from distinct alpha satellite arrays, and address current progress in the functional understanding of this oft-neglected repetitive sequence. We will discuss unique challenges of studying human satellite DNAs and RNAs and point toward new technologies that will continue to advance our understanding of this largely untapped portion of the genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M McNulty
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Beth A Sullivan
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA. .,Division of Human Genetics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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Mills WE, Spence JM, Fukagawa T, Farr CJ. Site-Specific Cleavage by Topoisomerase 2: A Mark of the Core Centromere. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E534. [PMID: 29439406 PMCID: PMC5855756 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to its roles in transcription and replication, topoisomerase 2 (topo 2) is crucial in shaping mitotic chromosomes and in ensuring the orderly separation of sister chromatids. As well as its recruitment throughout the length of the mitotic chromosome, topo 2 accumulates at the primary constriction. Here, following cohesin release, the enzymatic activity of topo 2 acts to remove residual sister catenations. Intriguingly, topo 2 does not bind and cleave all sites in the genome equally; one preferred site of cleavage is within the core centromere. Discrete topo 2-centromeric cleavage sites have been identified in α-satellite DNA arrays of active human centromeres and in the centromere regions of some protozoans. In this study, we show that topo 2 cleavage sites are also a feature of the centromere in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, the metazoan Drosophila melanogaster and in another vertebrate species, Gallus gallus (chicken). In vertebrates, we show that this site-specific cleavage is diminished by depletion of CENP-I, an essential constitutive centromere protein. The presence, within the core centromere of a wide range of eukaryotes, of precise sites hypersensitive to topo 2 cleavage suggests that these mark a fundamental and conserved aspect of this functional domain, such as a non-canonical secondary structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter E Mills
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK.
| | - Jennifer M Spence
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK.
| | - Tatsuo Fukagawa
- Laboratory of Chromosome Biology, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Christine J Farr
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK.
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10
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Site-specific transfer of chromosomal segments and genes in wheat engineered chromosomes. J Genet Genomics 2017; 44:531-539. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2017.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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11
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Using human artificial chromosomes to study centromere assembly and function. Chromosoma 2017; 126:559-575. [DOI: 10.1007/s00412-017-0633-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Abstract
The enabling technologies of synthetic biology are opening up new opportunities for engineering and enhancement of mammalian cells. This will stimulate diverse applications in many life science sectors such as regenerative medicine, development of biosensing cell lines, therapeutic protein production, and generation of new synthetic genetic regulatory circuits. Harnessing the full potential of these new engineering-based approaches requires the design and assembly of large DNA constructs-potentially up to chromosome scale-and the effective delivery of these large DNA payloads to the host cell. Random integration of large transgenes, encoding therapeutic proteins or genetic circuits into host chromosomes, has several drawbacks such as risks of insertional mutagenesis, lack of control over transgene copy-number and position-specific effects; these can compromise the intended functioning of genetic circuits. The development of a system orthogonal to the endogenous genome is therefore beneficial. Mammalian artificial chromosomes (MACs) are functional, add-on chromosomal elements, which behave as normal chromosomes-being replicating and portioned to daughter cells at each cell division. They are deployed as useful gene expression vectors as they remain independent from the host genome. MACs are maintained as a single-copy and can accommodate multiple gene expression cassettes of, in theory, unlimited DNA size (MACs up to 10 megabases have been constructed). MACs therefore enabled control over ectopic gene expression and represent an excellent platform to rapidly prototype and characterize novel synthetic gene circuits without recourse to engineering the host genome. This review describes the obstacles synthetic biologists face when working with mammalian systems and how the development of improved MACs can overcome these-particularly given the spectacular advances in DNA synthesis and assembly that are fuelling this research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Martella
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh , The King's Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, U.K
| | - Steven M Pollard
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, The University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh bioQuarter, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, U.K
| | - Junbiao Dai
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis (Ministry of Education), Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yizhi Cai
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh , The King's Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, U.K
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Ohzeki JI, Larionov V, Earnshaw WC, Masumoto H. Genetic and epigenetic regulation of centromeres: a look at HAC formation. Chromosome Res 2015; 23:87-103. [PMID: 25682171 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-015-9470-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The centromere is a specialized chromosomal locus required for accurate chromosome segregation. A specific histone H3 variant, CENP-A, assembles at centromeres. CENP-A is required for kinetochore protein assembly and is an epigenetic marker for the maintenance of a functional centromere. Human CENP-A chromatin normally assembles on α-satellite DNA (alphoid DNA), a centromeric repetitive sequence. Using alphoid DNA arrays, human artificial chromosomes (HACs) have been constructed in human HT1080 cells and used to dissect the requirements for CENP-A assembly on DNA sequence. However, centromere formation is not a simple genetic event. In other commonly used human cell lines, such as HeLa and U2OS cells, no functional de novo centromere formation occurs efficiently with the same centromeric alphoid DNA sequences. Recent studies using protein tethering combined with the HAC system and/or genetic manipulation have revealed that epigenetic chromatin regulation mechanisms are also involved in the CENP-A chromatin assembly pathway and subsequent centromere/kinetochore formation. We summarize the DNA sequence requirements for CENP-A assembly and discuss the epigenetic regulation of human centromeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-ichirou Ohzeki
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Department of Frontier Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, 2-6-7 Kazusa-Kamatari, Kisarazu, Chiba, 292-0818, Japan
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Katona RL. De novo formed satellite DNA-based mammalian artificial chromosomes and their possible applications. Chromosome Res 2015; 23:143-57. [DOI: 10.1007/s10577-014-9458-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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15
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Kouprina N, Tomilin AN, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Larionov V. Human artificial chromosome-based gene delivery vectors for biomedicine and biotechnology. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2014; 11:517-35. [DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2014.882314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Tóth A, Fodor K, Praznovszky T, Tubak V, Udvardy A, Hadlaczky G, Katona RL. Novel method to load multiple genes onto a mammalian artificial chromosome. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85565. [PMID: 24454889 PMCID: PMC3893256 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian artificial chromosomes are natural chromosome-based vectors that may carry a vast amount of genetic material in terms of both size and number. They are reasonably stable and segregate well in both mitosis and meiosis. A platform artificial chromosome expression system (ACEs) was earlier described with multiple loading sites for a modified lambda-integrase enzyme. It has been shown that this ACEs is suitable for high-level industrial protein production and the treatment of a mouse model for a devastating human disorder, Krabbe's disease. ACEs-treated mutant mice carrying a therapeutic gene lived more than four times longer than untreated counterparts. This novel gene therapy method is called combined mammalian artificial chromosome-stem cell therapy. At present, this method suffers from the limitation that a new selection marker gene should be present for each therapeutic gene loaded onto the ACEs. Complex diseases require the cooperative action of several genes for treatment, but only a limited number of selection marker genes are available and there is also a risk of serious side-effects caused by the unwanted expression of these marker genes in mammalian cells, organs and organisms. We describe here a novel method to load multiple genes onto the ACEs by using only two selectable marker genes. These markers may be removed from the ACEs before therapeutic application. This novel technology could revolutionize gene therapeutic applications targeting the treatment of complex disorders and cancers. It could also speed up cell therapy by allowing researchers to engineer a chromosome with a predetermined set of genetic factors to differentiate adult stem cells, embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells into cell types of therapeutic value. It is also a suitable tool for the investigation of complex biochemical pathways in basic science by producing an ACEs with several genes from a signal transduction pathway of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tóth
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Fodor
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tünde Praznovszky
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Vilmos Tubak
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Andor Udvardy
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gyula Hadlaczky
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Robert L. Katona
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
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Kazuki K, Takehara S, Uno N, Imaoka N, Abe S, Takiguchi M, Hiramatsu K, Oshimura M, Kazuki Y. Highly stable maintenance of a mouse artificial chromosome in human cells and mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 442:44-50. [PMID: 24216103 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.10.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) and mouse artificial chromosomes (MACs) display several advantages as gene delivery vectors, such as stable episomal maintenance that avoids insertional mutations and the ability to carry large gene inserts including the regulatory elements. Previously, we showed that a MAC vector developed from a natural mouse chromosome by chromosome engineering was more stably maintained in adult tissues and hematopoietic cells in mice than HAC vectors. In this study, to expand the utility for a gene delivery vector in human cells and mice, we investigated the long-term stability of the MACs in cultured human cells and transchromosomic mice. We also investigated the chromosomal copy number-dependent expression of genes on the MACs in mice. The MAC was stably maintained in human HT1080 cells in vitro during long-term culture. The MAC was stably maintained at least to the F8 and F4 generations in ICR and C57BL/6 backgrounds, respectively. The MAC was also stably maintained in hematopoietic cells and tissues derived from old mice. Transchromosomic mice containing two or four copies of the MAC were generated by breeding. The DNA contents were comparable to the copy number of the MACs in each tissue examined, and the expression of the EGFP gene on the MAC was dependent on the chromosomal copy number. Therefore, the MAC vector may be useful not only for gene delivery in mammalian cells but also for animal transgenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Kazuki
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, 86 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan; Chromosome Engineering Research Center, Tottori University, 86 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan
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Kouprina N, Earnshaw WC, Masumoto H, Larionov V. A new generation of human artificial chromosomes for functional genomics and gene therapy. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:1135-48. [PMID: 22907415 PMCID: PMC3522797 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Revised: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Since their description in the late 1990s, human artificial chromosomes (HACs) carrying a functional kinetochore were considered as a promising system for gene delivery and expression with a potential to overcome many problems caused by the use of viral-based gene transfer systems. Indeed, HACs avoid the limited cloning capacity, lack of copy number control and insertional mutagenesis due to integration into host chromosomes that plague viral vectors. Nevertheless, until recently, HACs have not been widely recognized because of uncertainties of their structure and the absence of a unique gene acceptor site. The situation changed a few years ago after engineering of HACs with a single loxP gene adopter site and a defined structure. In this review, we summarize recent progress made in HAC technology and concentrate on details of two of the most advanced HACs, 21HAC generated by truncation of human chromosome 21 and alphoid(tetO)-HAC generated de novo using a synthetic tetO-alphoid DNA array. Multiple potential applications of the HAC vectors are discussed, specifically the unique features of two of the most advanced HAC cloning systems.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Genetically Modified
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/classification
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/genetics
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/physiology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Transfer Techniques
- Genetic Diseases, Inborn/genetics
- Genetic Diseases, Inborn/pathology
- Genetic Diseases, Inborn/therapy
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Genomics/methods
- Humans
- Models, Biological
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalay Kouprina
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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19
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Kouprina N, Samoshkin A, Erliandri I, Nakano M, Lee HS, Fu H, Iida Y, Aladjem M, Oshimura M, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Larionov V. Organization of synthetic alphoid DNA array in human artificial chromosome (HAC) with a conditional centromere. ACS Synth Biol 2012; 1:590-601. [PMID: 23411994 DOI: 10.1021/sb3000436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) represent a novel promising episomal system for functional genomics, gene therapy, and synthetic biology. HACs are engineered from natural and synthetic alphoid DNA arrays upon transfection into human cells. The use of HACs for gene expression studies requires the knowledge of their structural organization. However, none of the de novo HACs constructed so far has been physically mapped in detail. Recently we constructed a synthetic alphoid(tetO)-HAC that was successfully used for expression of full-length genes to correct genetic deficiencies in human cells. The HAC can be easily eliminated from cell populations by inactivation of its conditional kinetochore. This unique feature provides a control for phenotypic changes attributed to expression of HAC-encoded genes. This work describes organization of a megabase-size synthetic alphoid DNA array in the alphoid(tetO)-HAC that has been formed from a ~50 kb synthetic alphoid(tetO)-construct. Our analysis showed that this array represents a 1.1 Mb continuous sequence assembled from multiple copies of input DNA, a significant part of which was rearranged before assembling. The tandem and inverted alphoid DNA repeats in the HAC range in size from 25 to 150 kb. In addition, we demonstrated that the structure and functional domains of the HAC remains unchanged after several rounds of its transfer into different host cells. The knowledge of the alphoid(tetO)-HAC structure provides a tool to control HAC integrity during different manipulations. Our results also shed light on a mechanism for de novo HAC formation in human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalay Kouprina
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Alexander Samoshkin
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Indri Erliandri
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Megumi Nakano
- Laboratory
of Cell Engineering,
Department of Human Genome Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, 2-6-7 Kazusa-Kamatari, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818,
Japan
| | - Hee-Sheung Lee
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Haiging Fu
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Yuichi Iida
- Department of Biomedical
Science,
Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School
of Medical Sciences, Tottori University, Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
| | - Mirit Aladjem
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
| | - Mitsuo Oshimura
- Department of Biomedical
Science,
Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School
of Medical Sciences, Tottori University, Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory
of Cell Engineering,
Department of Human Genome Research, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, 2-6-7 Kazusa-Kamatari, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818,
Japan
| | - William C. Earnshaw
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell
Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh
EH9 3JR, Scotland
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Laboratories of Molecular Pharmacology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892,
United States
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20
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Xu C, Cheng Z, Yu W. Construction of rice mini-chromosomes by telomere-mediated chromosomal truncation. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2012; 70:1070-1079. [PMID: 22268496 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-313x.2012.04916.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Telomere truncation has been shown to be an efficient technology for the creation of mini-chromosomes that can be used as artificial chromosome platforms for genetic engineering. Artificial chromosome-based genetic engineering is considered to be superior to the existing techniques of randomized gene integration by Agrobacterium or biolistic-mediated genetic transformation. It organizes multiple transgenes as a unique genetic linkage block for subsequent manipulations in breeding. Telomere truncation technology relies on three components: the telomere sequence that mediates chromosomal truncation, a selection marker that allows the selection of transgenic events, and a site-specific recombination system that can be used to accept future genes into the mini-chromosome by gene targeting. These elements are usually pre-assembled before transformation, a process that is both time and labor consuming. We found in this research that the three elements could be mixed to transform plant cells in a biolistic transformation, and produced efficient chromosomal truncations and mini-chromosomes in rice. This system will allow rapid construction of mini-chromosomes with a flexible selection of resistant markers, site-specific recombination systems and other desirable elements. In addition, a rice telotrisomic line was used as the starting material for chromosomal truncations. Mini-chromosomes from the truncations of both the telocentric chromosome and other chromosomes were recovered. The mini-chromosomes remained stable during 2 years of subculture. The construction of mini-chromosomes in rice, an economically important crop, will provide a platform for future artificial chromosome-based genetic engineering of rice for stacking multiple genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Plant Molecular Biology and Agricultural Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
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21
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Kim JH, Kononenko A, Erliandri I, Kim TA, Nakano M, Iida Y, Barrett JC, Oshimura M, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Larionov V, Kouprina N. Human artificial chromosome (HAC) vector with a conditional centromere for correction of genetic deficiencies in human cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:20048-53. [PMID: 22123967 PMCID: PMC3250132 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1114483108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human artificial chromosome (HAC)-based vectors offer a promising system for delivery and expression of full-length human genes of any size. HACs avoid the limited cloning capacity, lack of copy number control, and insertional mutagenesis caused by integration into host chromosomes that plague viral vectors. We previously described a synthetic HAC that can be easily eliminated from cell populations by inactivation of its conditional kinetochore. Here, we demonstrate the utility of this HAC, which has a unique gene acceptor site, for delivery of full-length genes and correction of genetic deficiencies in human cells. A battery of functional tests was performed to demonstrate expression of NBS1 and VHL genes from the HAC at physiological levels. We also show that phenotypes arising from stable gene expression can be reversed when cells are "cured" of the HAC by inactivating its kinetochore in proliferating cell populations, a feature that provides a control for phenotypic changes attributed to expression of HAC-encoded genes. This generation of human artificial chromosomes should be suitable for studies of gene function and therapeutic applications.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Autoantigens/metabolism
- CHO Cells
- Cell Cycle Proteins/genetics
- Centromere/genetics
- Centromere Protein A
- Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone/metabolism
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Human/genetics
- Chromosomes, Artificial, Yeast/genetics
- Cloning, Molecular
- Cricetinae
- Cricetulus
- Gene Expression
- Genetic Complementation Test
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Genetic Vectors/genetics
- Genome, Human/genetics
- Humans
- In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
- Integrases/metabolism
- Mutagenesis, Insertional/genetics
- Nuclear Proteins/genetics
- Recombination, Genetic/genetics
- Von Hippel-Lindau Tumor Suppressor Protein/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tae-Aug Kim
- Tumor and Stem Cell Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Megumi Nakano
- Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0818, Japan
| | - Yuichi Iida
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Tottori University, Tottori 683-8503, Japan
| | - J. Carl Barrett
- Translational Sciences for Oncology Innovative Medicine, AstraZeneca, Boston, MA 02451; and
| | - Mitsuo Oshimura
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Tottori University, Tottori 683-8503, Japan
| | | | - William C. Earnshaw
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland
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22
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Abstract
Artificially modified chromosome vectors are non-integrating gene delivery platforms that can shuttle very large DNA fragments in various recipient cells: theoretically, no size limit exists for the chromosome segments that an engineered minichromosome can accommodate. Therefore, genetically manipulated chromosomes might be potentially ideal vector systems, especially when the complexity of higher eukaryotic genes is concerned. This review focuses on those chromosome vectors generated using spontaneously occurring small markers as starting material. The definition and manipulation of the centromere domain is one of the main obstacles in chromosome engineering: naturally occurring minichromosomes, due to their inherent small size, were helpful in defining some aspects of centromere function. In addition, several distinctive features of small marker chromosomes, like their appearance as supernumerary elements in otherwise normal karyotypes, have been successfully exploited to use them as gene delivery vectors. The key technologies employed for minichromosome engineering are: size reduction, gene targeting, and vector delivery in various recipient cells. In spite of the significant advances that have been recently achieved in all these fields, several unsolved problems limit the potential of artificially modified chromosomes. Still, these vector systems have been exploited in a number of applications where the investigation of the controlled expression of large DNA segments is needed. A typical example is the analysis of genes whose expression strictly depends on the chromosomal environment in which they are positioned, where engineered chromosomes can be envisaged as epigenetically regulated expression systems. A novel and exciting advance concerns the use of engineered minichromosomes to study the organization and dynamics of local chromatin structures.
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23
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Kazuki Y, Oshimura M. Human artificial chromosomes for gene delivery and the development of animal models. Mol Ther 2011; 19:1591-601. [PMID: 21750534 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2011.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Random integration of conventional gene delivery vectors such as viruses, plasmids, P1 phage-derived artificial chromosomes, bacterial artificial chromosomes and yeast artificial chromosomes can be associated with transgene silencing. Furthermore, integrated viral sequences can activate oncogenes adjacent to the insertion site resulting in cancer. Various human artificial chromosomes (HACs) exhibit several potential characteristics desired for an ideal gene delivery vector, including stable episomal maintenance and the capacity to carry large genomic loci with their regulatory elements, thus allowing the physiological regulation of the introduced gene in a manner similar to that of native chromosomes. HACs have been generated mainly using either a "top-down approach" (engineered chromosomes), or a "bottom-up approach" (de novo artificial chromosomes). The recent emergence of stem cell-based tissue engineering has opened up new avenues for gene and cell therapies. This review describes the lessons learned and prospects identified mainly from studies in the construction of HACs and HAC-mediated gene expression systems in cultured cells, as well as in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Kazuki
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan
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24
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Wade-Martins R. Developing extrachromosomal gene expression vector technologies: an overview. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 738:1-17. [PMID: 21431716 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-099-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Extrachromosomal, or episomal, vectors offer a number of advantages for therapeutic and scientific applications compared to integrating vectors. Extrachromosomal vectors persist in the nucleus without the requirement to integrate into the host genome, hence avoiding the recent concerns surrounding the genotoxic effects of vector integration. By avoiding integration, episomal vectors avoid vector rearrangement, which can occur at integration, and also avoid any effect of surrounding DNA activity on transgene expression ("position effect"). Extrachromosomal vectors offer a very high transgene capacity, allowing either the incorporation of large promoter and regulatory elements into an expression cassette, or the use of complete genomic loci of up to 100 kb or larger as transgenes. Whole genomic loci transgenes offer an elegant means to express genes under physiological and developmental-stage regulation, to express multiple transcript variants from a single locus, and to express multiple genes from a single tract of genomic DNA. The combined advantages of episomal vectors of prolonged transgene persistence in the absence of vector integration, avoiding silencing by flanking heterochromatin, and high capacity, facilitating delivery and expression of genomic DNA transgenes, will be reviewed here and potential therapeutic and scientific uses outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Wade-Martins
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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25
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Katona RL, Vanderbyl SL, Perez CF. Mammalian artificial chromosomes and clinical applications for genetic modification of stem cells: an overview. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 738:199-216. [PMID: 21431729 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-099-7_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Modifying multipotent, self-renewing human stem cells with mammalian artificial chromosomes (MACs), present a promising clinical strategy for numerous diseases, especially ex vivo cell therapies that can benefit from constitutive or overexpression of therapeutic gene(s). MACs are nonintegrating, autonomously replicating, with the capacity to carry large cDNA or genomic sequences, which in turn enable potentially prolonged, safe, and regulated therapeutic transgene expression, and render MACs as attractive genetic vectors for "gene replacement" or for controlling differentiation pathways in progenitor cells. The status quo is that the most versatile target cell would be one that was pluripotent and self-renewing to address multiple disease target cell types, thus making multilineage stem cells, such as adult derived early progenitor cells and embryonic stem cells, as attractive universal host cells. We will describe the progress of MAC technologies, the subsequent modifications of stem cells, and discuss the establishment of MAC platform stem cell lines to facilitate proof-of-principle studies and preclinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Katona
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Center, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary.
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26
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Telomere truncation in plants. Methods Mol Biol 2010. [PMID: 21181527 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61737-957-4_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Telomeres are highly repetitive sequences at the ends of chromosomes that act as protection structure for chromosome stability. The integration of telomere sequences into the genome by genetic transformation can create chromosome instability because the integrated telomere sequences tend to form de novo telomeres at the site of integration. Thus, telomere repeats can be used to generate minichromosomes by telomere-mediated chromosome truncation in both plants and animals for chromosome studies as well as the applications in genetic engineering as engineered minichromosomes or artificial chromosomes. This protocol describes the procedure for telomere truncation of maize chromosomes by genetic transformation of telomere-containing constructs by both Agrobacterium- and biolistic-mediated transformations.
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27
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Kazuki Y, Hoshiya H, Takiguchi M, Abe S, Iida Y, Osaki M, Katoh M, Hiratsuka M, Shirayoshi Y, Hiramatsu K, Ueno E, Kajitani N, Yoshino T, Kazuki K, Ishihara C, Takehara S, Tsuji S, Ejima F, Toyoda A, Sakaki Y, Larionov V, Kouprina N, Oshimura M. Refined human artificial chromosome vectors for gene therapy and animal transgenesis. Gene Ther 2010; 18:384-93. [PMID: 21085194 PMCID: PMC3125098 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2010.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) have several advantages as gene therapy vectors, including stable episomal maintenance, and the ability to carry large gene inserts. We previously developed HAC vectors from the normal human chromosomes using a chromosome engineering technique. However, endogenous genes were remained in these HACs, limiting their therapeutic applications. In this study, we refined a HAC vector without endogenous genes from human chromosome 21 in homologous recombination-proficient chicken DT40 cells. The HAC was physically characterized using a transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning strategy followed by sequencing of TAR-bacterial artificial chromosome clones. No endogenous genes were remained in the HAC. We demonstrated that any desired gene can be cloned into the HAC using the Cre-loxP system in Chinese hamster ovary cells, or a homologous recombination system in DT40 cells. The HAC can be efficiently transferred to other type of cells including mouse ES cells via microcell-mediated chromosome transfer. The transferred HAC was stably maintained in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, tumor cells containing a HAC carrying the suicide gene, herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSV-TK), were selectively killed by ganciclovir in vitro and in vivo. Thus, this novel HAC vector may be useful not only for gene and cell therapy, but also for animal transgenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Kazuki
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
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28
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Mravinac B, Sullivan LL, Reeves JW, Yan CM, Kopf KS, Farr CJ, Schueler MG, Sullivan BA. Histone modifications within the human X centromere region. PLoS One 2009; 4:e6602. [PMID: 19672304 PMCID: PMC2719913 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0006602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2009] [Accepted: 07/06/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human centromeres are multi-megabase regions of highly ordered arrays of alpha satellite DNA that are separated from chromosome arms by unordered alpha satellite monomers and other repetitive elements. Complexities in assembling such large repetitive regions have limited detailed studies of centromeric chromatin organization. However, a genomic map of the human X centromere has provided new opportunities to explore genomic architecture of a complex locus. We used ChIP to examine the distribution of modified histones within centromere regions of multiple X chromosomes. Methylation of H3 at lysine 4 coincided with DXZ1 higher order alpha satellite, the site of CENP-A localization. Heterochromatic histone modifications were distributed across the 400–500 kb pericentromeric regions. The large arrays of alpha satellite and gamma satellite DNA were enriched for both euchromatic and heterochromatic modifications, implying that some pericentromeric repeats have multiple chromatin characteristics. Partial truncation of the X centromere resulted in reduction in the size of the CENP-A/Cenp-A domain and increased heterochromatic modifications in the flanking pericentromere. Although the deletion removed ∼1/3 of centromeric DNA, the ratio of CENP-A to alpha satellite array size was maintained in the same proportion, suggesting that a limited, but defined linear region of the centromeric DNA is necessary for kinetochore assembly. Our results indicate that the human X centromere contains multiple types of chromatin, is organized similarly to smaller eukaryotic centromeres, and responds to structural changes by expanding or contracting domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brankica Mravinac
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Lori L. Sullivan
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jason W. Reeves
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Yan
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kristen S. Kopf
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christine J. Farr
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mary G. Schueler
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Beth A. Sullivan
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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29
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Artificial chromosome formation in maize (Zea mays L.). Chromosoma 2008; 118:157-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s00412-008-0191-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2008] [Revised: 10/22/2008] [Accepted: 10/23/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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30
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Lufino MMP, Edser PAH, Wade-Martins R. Advances in high-capacity extrachromosomal vector technology: episomal maintenance, vector delivery, and transgene expression. Mol Ther 2008; 16:1525-38. [PMID: 18628754 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2008.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent developments in extrachromosomal vector technology have offered new ways of designing safer, physiologically regulated vectors for gene therapy. Extrachromosomal, or episomal, persistence in the nucleus of transduced cells offers a safer alternative to integrating vectors which have become the subject of safety concerns following serious adverse events in recent clinical trials. Extrachromosomal vectors do not cause physical disruption in the host genome, making these vectors safe and suitable tools for several gene therapy targets, including stem cells. Moreover, the high insert capacity of extrachromosomal vectors allows expression of a therapeutic transgene from the context of its genomic DNA sequence, providing an elegant way to express normal splice variants and achieve physiologically regulated levels of expression. Here, we describe past and recent advances in the development of several different extrachromosomal systems, discuss their retention mechanisms, and evaluate their use as expression vectors to deliver and express genomic DNA loci. We also discuss a variety of delivery systems, viral and nonviral, which have been used to deliver episomal vectors to target cells in vitro and in vivo. Finally, we explore the potential for the delivery and expression of extrachromosomal transgenes in stem cells. The long-term persistence of extrachromosomal vectors combined with the potential for stem cell proliferation and differentiation into a wide range of cell types offers an exciting prospect for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele M P Lufino
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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31
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Oshimura M, Katoh M. Transfer of human artificial chromosome vectors into stem cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:57-69. [PMID: 18252049 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60557-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Human chromosome fragments and human artificial chromosomes (HAC) represent feasible gene delivery vectors via microcell-mediated chromosome transfer. Strategies to construct HAC involve either 'build up' or 'top-down' approaches. For each approach, techniques for manipulating HAC in donor cells in order to deliver HAC to recipient cells are required. The combination of chromosome fragments or HAC with microcell-mediated chromosome transfer has facilitated human gene mapping and various genetic studies. The recent emergence of stem cell-based tissue engineering has opened up new avenues for gene and cell therapies. The task now is to develop safe and effective vectors that can deliver therapeutic genes into specific stem cells and maintain long-term regulated expression of these genes. Although the transfer-efficiency needs to be improved, HAC possess several characteristics that are required for gene therapy vectors, including stable episomal maintenance and the capacity for large gene insets. HAC can also carry genomic loci with regulatory elements, which allow for the expression of transgenes in a genetic environment similar to the natural chromosome. This review describes the lessons and prospects learned, mainly from recent studies in developing HAC and HAC-mediated gene expression in embryonic and adult stem cells, and in transgenic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuo Oshimura
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, 86 Nishicho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan.
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32
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Han F, Gao Z, Yu W, Birchler JA. Minichromosome analysis of chromosome pairing, disjunction, and sister chromatid cohesion in maize. THE PLANT CELL 2007; 19:3853-63. [PMID: 18083907 PMCID: PMC2217637 DOI: 10.1105/tpc.107.055905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2007] [Revised: 11/18/2007] [Accepted: 11/24/2007] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of engineered minichromosome technology in plants, an understanding of the properties of small chromosomes is desirable. Twenty-two minichromosomes of related origin but varying in size are described that provide a unique resource to study such behavior. Fourteen minichromosomes from this set could pair with each other in meiotic prophase at frequencies between 25 and 100%, but for the smaller chromosomes, the sister chromatids precociously separated in anaphase I. The other eight minichromosomes did not pair with themselves, and the sister chromatids divided equationally at meiosis I. In plants containing one minichromosome, the sister chromatids also separated at meiosis I. In anaphase II, the minichromosomes progressed to one pole or the other. The maize (Zea mays) Shugoshin protein, which has been hypothesized to protect centromere cohesion in meiosis I, is still present at anaphase I on minichromosomes that divide equationally. Also, there were no differences in the level of phosphorylation of Ser-10 of histone H3, a correlate of cohesion, in the minichromosomes in which sister chromatids separated during anaphase I compared with the normal chromosomes. These analyses suggest that meiotic centromeric cohesion is compromised in minichromosomes depending on their size and cannot be maintained by the mechanisms used by normal-sized chromosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangpu Han
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211-7400, USA
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33
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The analysis and isolation of high numbers of chromosomes smaller than 3 Mb in size (microchromosomes) with good purity is dependent primarily on the detection sensitivity of the flow cytometer and the precision of the sort unit. The aim of this study was to investigate the capability of using a conventional flow cytometer for the detection and sorting at high purity microchromosomes with an estimated size of 2.7 Mb. METHODS Chromosomes were isolated from a human cell line containing a pair of X-derived microchromosomes, using a modified polyamine isolation buffer. The chromosome preparation was labeled with Hoechst and Chromomycin and analyzed and purified using a MoFlo sorter (DAKO) configured for high-speed sorting. The purity of the flow-sorted microchromosomes was assessed by reverse chromosome painting. RESULTS Improved resolution of the peak of microchromosomes in a bivariate plot of Hoechst versus Chromomycin fluorescence was obtainable after discriminating clumps and debris based on gating data within a FSC versus pulse width plot. CONCLUSIONS Chromosomes of smaller size, less than 3 Mb, can be detected with high resolution and flow-sorted with high purity using a conventional flow sorter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bee L Ng
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, United Kingdom.
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Ren X, Tahimic CGT, Katoh M, Kurimasa A, Inoue T, Oshimura M. Human artificial chromosome vectors meet stem cells: new prospects for gene delivery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 2:43-50. [PMID: 17142886 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-006-0008-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/1999] [Revised: 11/30/1999] [Accepted: 11/30/1999] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The recent emergence of stem cell-based tissue engineering has now opened up new venues for gene therapy. The task now is to develop safe and effective vectors that can deliver therapeutic genes into specific stem cell lines and maintain long-term regulated expression of these genes. Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) possess several characteristics that require gene therapy vectors, including a stable episomal maintenance, and the capacity for large gene inserts. HACs can also carry genomic loci with regulatory elements, thus allowing for the expression of transgenes in a genetic environment similar to the chromosome. Currently, HACs are constructed by a two prone approaches. Using a top-down strategy, HACs can be generated from fragmenting endogenous chromosomes. By a bottom-up strategy, HACs can be created de novo from cloned chromosomal components using chromosome engineering. This review describes the current advances in developing HACs, with the main focus on their applications and potential value in gene delivery, such as HAC-mediated gene expression in embryonic, adult stem cells, and transgenic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianying Ren
- Department of Biomedical Science, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction,Tottori University, 86 Nishicho,Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan
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Tsuduki T, Nakano M, Yasuoka N, Yamazaki S, Okada T, Okamoto Y, Masumoto H. An artificially constructed de novo human chromosome behaves almost identically to its natural counterpart during metaphase and anaphase in living cells. Mol Cell Biol 2006; 26:7682-95. [PMID: 17015481 PMCID: PMC1636871 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00355-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) are promising reagents for the analysis of chromosome function. While HACs are maintained stably, the segregation mechanisms of HACs have not been investigated in detail. To analyze HACs in living cells, we integrated 256 copies of the Lac operator into a precursor yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) containing alpha-satellite DNA and generated green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged HACs in HT1080 cells expressing a GFP-Lac repressor fusion protein. Time-lapse analyses of GFP-HACs and host centromeres in living mitotic cells indicated that the HAC was properly aligned at the spindle midzone and that sister chromatids of the HAC separated with the same timing as host chromosomes and moved to the spindle poles with mobility similar to that of the host centromeres. These results indicate that a HAC composed of a multimer of input alpha-satellite YACs retains most of the functions of the centromeres on natural chromosomes. The only difference between the HAC and the host chromosome was that the HAC oscillated more frequently, at higher velocity, across the spindle midzone during metaphase. However, this provides important evidence that an individual HAC has the capacity to maintain tensional balance in the pole-to-pole direction, thereby stabilizing its position around the spindle midzone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Tsuduki
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8602, Japan
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Yu W, Lamb JC, Han F, Birchler JA. Telomere-mediated chromosomal truncation in maize. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2006; 103:17331-6. [PMID: 17085598 PMCID: PMC1859930 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0605750103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct repeats of Arabidopsis telomeric sequence were constructed to test telomere-mediated chromosomal truncation in maize. Two constructs with 2.6 kb of telomeric sequence were used to transform maize immature embryos by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. One hundred seventy-six transgenic lines were recovered in which 231 transgene loci were revealed by a FISH analysis. To analyze chromosomal truncations that result in transgenes located near chromosomal termini, Southern hybridization analyses were performed. A pattern of smear in truncated lines was seen as compared with discrete bands for internal integrations, because telomeres in different cells are elongated differently by telomerase. When multiple restriction enzymes were used to map the transgene positions, the size of the smears shifted in accordance with the locations of restriction sites on the construct. This result demonstrated that the transgene was present at the end of the chromosome immediately before the integrated telomere sequence. Direct evidence for chromosomal truncation came from the results of FISH karyotyping, which revealed broken chromosomes with transgene signals at the ends. These results demonstrate that telomere-mediated chromosomal truncation operates in plant species. This technology will be useful for chromosomal engineering in maize as well as other plant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichang Yu
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - Jonathan C. Lamb
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - Fangpu Han
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - James A. Birchler
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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Basu J, Willard HF. Human artificial chromosomes: potential applications and clinical considerations. Pediatr Clin North Am 2006; 53:843-53, viii. [PMID: 17027613 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2006.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes demonstrate promise as a novel class of nonintegrative gene therapy vectors. The authors outline current developments in human artificial chromosome technology and examine their potential for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydeep Basu
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Duke University, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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38
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Suzuki N, Nishii K, Okazaki T, Ikeno M. Human Artificial Chromosomes Constructed Using the Bottom-up Strategy Are Stably Maintained in Mitosis and Efficiently Transmissible to Progeny Mice. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:26615-23. [PMID: 16837455 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m603053200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) are alternative vectors that promise to overcome problematic transgene expression often occurring with conventional vectors in mammalian cells and bodies. We have successfully generated HACs by multimerization of a cloned long alphoid stretch in a human cell line, HT1080. Furthermore, we developed technologies for cloning large genomic regions into HACs by means of co-transfection of clones with the alphoid array and clones encoding the genomic region of interest. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mitotic and meiotic stability of such HACs in mouse cells and bodies. We transferred a circular HAC containing the guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase I gene (GCH1-HAC) and a linear HAC containing the human globin gene cluster (globin-HAC) from HT1080 cells into mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells by microcell-mediated chromosome transfer. The HACs were stably maintained in mouse ES cells for 3 months. GCH1-HACs in every ES cell line and globin-HACs in most ES cell lines maintained their structures without detectable rearrangement or acquisition of mouse genomic DNA except one globin-HAC in an ES cell line rearranged and acquired mouse-type centromeric sequences and long telomeres. Creation of chimeric mice using ES cells containing HAC and subsequent crossing showed that both the globin-HAC that had rearranged and acquired mouse type centromeric sequences/long telomeres and GCH1-HACs were retained in tissues of mice and transmitted to progeny. These results indicate that human artificial chromosomes constructed using the bottom-up strategy based on alphoid DNA are stable in mouse bodies and are transmissible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobutaka Suzuki
- Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Japan
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39
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Abstract
Artificial chromosomes is an exciting technology which has developed rapidly since the late 1990s. HACs (human artificial chromosomes) are autonomous molecules that can function and segregate as normal chromosomes in human cells. The advantages of an artificial-chromosome-based system are 2-fold. First, HACs are an excellent research tool for investigating the requirements for normal chromosome structure and function during the cell cycle. They are important in defining the sequence requirements of functional chromosomes, and investigating the organization and composition of the chromatin. Secondly, HACs are useful gene-transfer vectors for expression studies in mammalian cells, with the capacity to incorporate large DNA segments encompassing genes and their regulatory elements. As episomes, they are stably maintained, leading to more reliable and prolonged transgene expression. HACs offer the possibility of long-term gene expression in human cells and the development of future somatic gene therapy.
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40
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Suda T, Katoh M, Hiratsuka M, Takiguchi M, Kazuki Y, Inoue T, Oshimura M. Heat-regulated production and secretion of insulin from a human artificial chromosome vector. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2005; 340:1053-61. [PMID: 16403445 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2005.12.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2005] [Accepted: 12/19/2005] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) behave as independent minichromosomes and are potentially useful as a way to achieve safe, long-term expression of a transgene. In this study, we sought to elucidate the potential of HAC vectors carrying the human proinsulin transgene for gene therapy of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) using non-beta-cells as a host for the vector. To facilitate the production of mature insulin in non-beta-cells and to safely regulate the level of transgene expression, we introduced furin-cleavable sites into the proinsulin coding region and utilized the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) promoter. We used Cre-loxP-mediated recombination to introduce the gene cassettes onto 21DeltapqHAC, a HAC vector whose structure is completely defined, present in human fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells. We observed long-term expression and stable retention of the transgene without aberrant translocation of the HAC constructs. As expected, the Hsp70 promoter allowed us to regulate gene expression with temperature, and the production and secretion of intermediates of mature insulin were made possible by the furin-cleavable sites we had introduced into proinsulin. This study can be an initial step on the application of HAC vectors on the gene delivery to non-beta-cells, which might provide a direction for future treatment for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuji Suda
- Department of Human Genome Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, 86 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan
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41
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Spence JM, Mills W, Mann K, Huxley C, Farr CJ. Increased missegregation and chromosome loss with decreasing chromosome size in vertebrate cells. Chromosoma 2005; 115:60-74. [PMID: 16267674 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-005-0032-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2005] [Revised: 09/01/2005] [Accepted: 09/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Chromosome engineering has allowed the generation of an extensive and well-defined series of linear human X centromere-based minichromosomes, which has been used to investigate the influence of size and structure on chromosome segregation in vertebrate cells. A clear relationship between overall chromosome size and mitotic stability was detected, with decreasing size associated with increasing loss rates. In chicken DT40, the lower size limit for prolonged mitotic stability is approximately 550 kb: at 450 kb, there was a dramatic increase in chromosome loss, while structures of approximately 200 kb could not be recovered. In human HT1080 cells, the size threshold for mitotic stability is approximately 1.6 Mb. Minichromosomes of 0.55-1.0 Mb can be recovered, but display high loss rates. However, all minichromosomes examined exhibited more segregation errors than normal chromosomes in HT1080 cells. This error rate increases with decreased size and correlates with reduced levels of CENP-A and Aurora B. In mouse LA-9 and Indian muntjac FM7 cells, the size requirements for mitotic stability are much greater. In mouse, a human 2.7-Mb minichromosome is rarely able to propagate a kinetochore and behaves acentrically. In Indian muntjac, CENP-C associates with the human minichromosome, but the mitotic apparatus appears unable to handle its segregation.
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42
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Irvine DV, Shaw ML, Choo KHA, Saffery R. Engineering chromosomes for delivery of therapeutic genes. Trends Biotechnol 2005; 23:575-83. [PMID: 16242803 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2005.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2005] [Revised: 06/03/2005] [Accepted: 10/06/2005] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The ability to create fully functional human chromosome vectors represents a potentially exciting gene-delivery system for the correction of human genetic disorders with several advantages over viral delivery systems. However, for the full potential of chromosome-based gene-delivery vectors to be realized, several key obstacles must be overcome. Methods must be developed to insert therapeutic genes reliably and efficiently and to enable the stable transfer of the resulting chromosomal vectors to different therapeutic cell types. Research to achieve these outcomes continues to encounter major challenges; however recent developments have reiterated the potential of chromosome-based vectors for therapeutic gene delivery. Here we review the different strategies under development and discuss the advantages and problems associated with each.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle V Irvine
- Chromosome Research Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Flemington Road, Parkville 3052, Australia
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43
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Grimes BR, Monaco ZL. Artificial and engineered chromosomes: developments and prospects for gene therapy. Chromosoma 2005; 114:230-41. [PMID: 16133351 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-005-0017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2005] [Revised: 07/05/2005] [Accepted: 07/05/2005] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
At the gene therapy session of the ICCXV Chromosome Conference (2004), recent advances in the construction of engineered chromosomes and de novo human artificial chromosomes were presented. The long-term aims of these studies are to develop vectors as tools for studying genome and chromosome function and for delivering genes into cells for therapeutic applications. There are two primary advantages of chromosome-based vector systems over most conventional vectors for gene delivery. First, the transferred DNA can be stably maintained without the risks associated with insertion, and second, large DNA segments encompassing genes and their regulatory elements can be introduced, leading to more reliable transgene expression. There is clearly a need for safe and effective gene transfer vectors to correct genetic defects. Among the topics discussed at the gene therapy session and the main focus of this review are requirements for de novo human artificial chromosome formation, assembly of chromatin on de novo human artificial chromosomes, advances in vector construction, and chromosome transfer to cells and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda R Grimes
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 975 W. Walnut St, IB130, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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44
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Meaburn KJ, Parris CN, Bridger JM. The manipulation of chromosomes by mankind: the uses of microcell-mediated chromosome transfer. Chromosoma 2005; 114:263-74. [PMID: 16133353 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-005-0014-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2005] [Revised: 05/29/2005] [Accepted: 06/21/2005] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Microcell-mediated chromosome transfer (MMCT) was a technique originally developed in the 1970s to transfer exogenous chromosome material into host cells. Although, the methodology has not changed considerably since this time it is being used to great success in progressing several different fields in modern day biology. MMCT is being employed by groups all over the world to hunt for tumour suppressor genes associated with specific cancers, DNA repair genes, senescence-inducing genes and telomerase suppression genes. Some of these genomic discoveries are being investigated as potential treatments for cancer. Other fields have taken advantage of MMCT, and these include assessing genomic stability, genomic imprinting, chromatin modification and structure and spatial genome organisation. MMCT has also been a very useful method in construction and manipulation of artificial chromosomes for potential gene therapies. Indeed, MMCT is used to transfer mainly fragmented mini-chromosome between cell types and into embryonic stem cells for the construction of transgenic animals. This review briefly discusses these various uses and some of the consequences and advancements made by different fields utilising MMCT technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen J Meaburn
- Cell and Chromosome Biology Group, Division of Biosciences, School of Health Sciences and Social Care, Brunel University, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK
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45
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Spence JM, Fournier REK, Oshimura M, Regnier V, Farr CJ. Topoisomerase II cleavage activity within the human D11Z1 and DXZ1 alpha-satellite arrays. Chromosome Res 2005; 13:637-48. [PMID: 16170628 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-005-1003-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2005] [Accepted: 07/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Topoisomerase II (Topo II) is a major component of mitotic chromosomes and its unique decatenating activity has been implicated in many aspects of chromosome dynamics including DNA replication, transcription, recombination, chromosome condensation and segregation. Of these, chromosome segregation is the most seriously affected by loss of Topo II, most probably because of residual catenations between sister chromatids. At metaphase, vertebrate chromatids are attached principally through their centromeric regions. Intriguingly, evidence has recently been presented for Topo II cleavage activity within the centromeric alpha-satellite DNA arrays of the human X and Y chromosomes. In this report we extend these observations by mapping distinct sites of Topo II cleavage activity within the alpha-satellite array of human chromosome 11. A single major site of cleavage has been assigned within the centromeric DNA of each of three independently derived, and active, 11 centromeres. Unlike the X and Y centromeres, where cleavage sites mapped close to (within 150 kb of) the short arm edge of the arrays, on chromosome 11, the cleavage sites lie many hundreds of kilobases into each alpha-satellite array. We also demonstrate that catalytically active Topo II is concentrated within the centromere domain through an extended period of G2 and M, with levels declining in G1 and S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Spence
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
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46
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Basu J, Willard HF. Artificial and engineered chromosomes: non-integrating vectors for gene therapy. Trends Mol Med 2005; 11:251-8. [PMID: 15882613 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2005.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Non-integrating gene-delivery platforms demonstrate promise as potentially ideal gene-therapy vector systems. Although several approaches are under development, there is little consensus as to what constitutes a true 'artificial' versus an 'engineered' human chromosome. Recent progress must be evaluated in light of significant technical challenges that remain before such vectors achieve clinical utility. Here, we examine the principal classes of non-integrating vectors, ranging from episomes to engineered mini-chromosomes to true human artificial chromosomes. We compare their potential as practical gene-transfer platforms and summarize recent advances towards eventual applications in gene therapy. Although chromosome-engineering technology has advanced considerably within recent years, difficulties in establishing composition of matter and effective vector delivery currently prevent artificial or engineered chromosomes being accepted as viable gene-delivery platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydeep Basu
- Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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47
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Kakeda M, Hiratsuka M, Nagata K, Kuroiwa Y, Kakitani M, Katoh M, Oshimura M, Tomizuka K. Human artificial chromosome (HAC) vector provides long-term therapeutic transgene expression in normal human primary fibroblasts. Gene Ther 2005; 12:852-6. [PMID: 15750614 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Human artificial chromosomes (HACs) segregating freely from host chromosomes are potentially useful to ensure both safety and duration of gene expression in therapeutic gene delivery. However, low transfer efficiency of intact HACs to the cells has hampered the studies using normal human primary cells, the major targets for ex vivo gene therapy. To elucidate the potential of HACs to be vectors for gene therapy, we studied the introduction of the HAC vector, which is reduced in size and devoid of most expressed genes, into normal primary human fibroblasts (hPFs) with microcell-mediated chromosome transfer (MMCT). We demonstrated the generation of cytogenetically normal hPFs harboring the structurally defined and extra HAC vector. This introduced HAC vector was retained stably in hPFs without translocation of the HAC on host chromosomes. We also achieved the long-term production of human erythropoietin for at least 12 weeks in them. These results revealed the ability of HACs as novel options to circumvent issues of conventional vectors for gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kakeda
- Pharmaceutical Research Laboratories, Pharmaceutical Division, Kirin Brewery Co., Ltd, Takasaki-shi, Gunma, Japan
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48
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Masumoto H, Nakano M, Ohzeki JI. The role of CENP-B and alpha-satellite DNA: de novo assembly and epigenetic maintenance of human centromeres. Chromosome Res 2005; 12:543-56. [PMID: 15289662 DOI: 10.1023/b:chro.0000036593.72788.99] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The centromere is an essential functional domain responsible for the correct inheritance of eukaryotic chromosomes during cell division. Eukaryotic centromeres include the highly conserved centromere-specific histone H3 variant, CENP-A, which has provided a powerful tool for investigating the recruitment of centromere components. However, the trigger that targets CENP-A to a specific genomic locus during centromere assembly remains unknown. Although, on rare occasions, CENP-A chromatin may assemble at non-centromeric DNA, all normal human centromeres are assembled and maintained on alpha-satellite (alphoid) DNA. The importance of alphoid DNA and CENP-B binding sites (CENP-B boxes), typical of normal human centromere DNA configurations, has been demonstrated through their requirement in de novo centromere assembly and Human Artificial Chromosome (HAC) assays. Mechanisms to link the centromere tightly to specific genomic sequences exist in humans and the two yeast species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory of Biosystems and Cancer, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bldg. 37, Rm 5040, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Rudd MK, Schueler MG, Willard HF. Sequence organization and functional annotation of human centromeres. COLD SPRING HARBOR SYMPOSIA ON QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY 2004; 68:141-9. [PMID: 15338612 DOI: 10.1101/sqb.2003.68.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M K Rudd
- Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy, Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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50
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Katoh M, Ayabe F, Norikane S, Okada T, Masumoto H, Horike SI, Shirayoshi Y, Oshimura M. Construction of a novel human artificial chromosome vector for gene delivery. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004; 321:280-90. [PMID: 15358173 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2004.06.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Potential problems of conventional transgenes include insertional disruption of the host genome and unpredictable, irreproducible expression of the transgene by random integration. Alternatively, human artificial chromosomes (HACs) can circumvent some of the problems. Although several HACs were generated and their mitotic stability was assessed, a practical way for introducing exogenous genes by the HACs has yet to be explored. In this study, we developed a novel HAC from sequence-ready human chromosome 21 by telomere-directed chromosome truncation and added a loxP sequence for site-specific insertion of circular DNA by the Cre/loxP system. This 21HAC vector, delivered to a human cell line HT1080 by microcell fusion, bound centromere proteins A, B, and C and was mitotically stable during long-term culture without selection. The EGFP gene inserted in the HAC vector expressed persistently. These results suggest that the HAC vector provides useful system for functional studies of genes in isogenic cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motonobu Katoh
- Department of Human Genome Sciences (Kirin Brewery), Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, 86 Nishimachi, Yonago, Tottori 683-8503, Japan
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