1
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Knodel F, Pinter S, Kroll C, Rathert P. Fluorescent Reporter Systems to Investigate Chromatin Effector Proteins in Living Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2842:225-252. [PMID: 39012599 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4051-7_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic research faces the challenge of the high complexity and tight regulation in chromatin modification networks. Although many isolated mechanisms of chromatin-mediated gene regulation have been described, solid approaches for the comprehensive analysis of specific processes as parts of the bigger epigenome network are missing. In order to expand the toolbox of methods by a system that will help to capture and describe the complexity of transcriptional regulation, we describe here a robust protocol for the generation of stable reporter systems for transcriptional activity and summarize their applications. The system allows for the induced recruitment of a chromatin regulator to a fluorescent reporter gene, followed by the detection of transcriptional changes using flow cytometry. The reporter gene is integrated into an endogenous chromatin environment, thus enabling the detection of regulatory dependencies of the investigated chromatin regulator on endogenous cofactors. The system allows for an easy and dynamic readout at the single-cell level and the ability to compensate for cell-to-cell variances of transcription. The modular design of the system enables the simple adjustment of the method for the investigation of different chromatin regulators in a broad panel of cell lines. We also summarize applications of this technology to characterize the silencing velocity of different chromatin effectors, removal of activating histone modifications, analysis of stability and reversibility of epigenome modifications, the investigation of the effects of small molecule on chromatin effectors and of functional effector-coregulator relationships. The presented method allows to investigate the complexity of transcriptional regulation by epigenetic effector proteins in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Knodel
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sabine Pinter
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Carolin Kroll
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Philipp Rathert
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
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2
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Porquet F, Weidong L, Jehasse K, Gazon H, Kondili M, Blacher S, Massotte L, Di Valentin E, Furling D, Gillet NA, Klein AF, Seutin V, Willems L. Specific DMPK-promoter targeting by CRISPRi reverses myotonic dystrophy type 1-associated defects in patient muscle cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 32:857-871. [PMID: 37273786 PMCID: PMC10238591 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a neuromuscular disease that originates from an expansion of CTG microsatellites in the 3' untranslated region of the DMPK gene, thus leading to the expression of transcripts containing expanded CUG repeats (CUGexp). The pathophysiology is explained by a toxic RNA gain of function where CUGexp RNAs form nuclear aggregates that sequester and alter the function of MBNL splicing factors, triggering splicing misregulation linked to the DM1 symptoms. There is currently no cure for DM1, and most therapeutic strategies aim at eliminating CUGexp-DMPK transcripts. Here, we investigate a DMPK-promoter silencing strategy using CRISPR interference as a new alternative approach. Different sgRNAs targeting the DMPK promoter are evaluated in DM1 patient muscle cells. The most effective guides allowed us to reduce the level of DMPK transcripts and CUGexp-RNA aggregates up to 80%. The CUGexp-DMPK repression corrects the overall transcriptome, including spliceopathy, and reverses a physiological parameter in DM1 muscle cells. Its action is specific and restricted to the DMPK gene, as confirmed by genome-wide expression analysis. Altogether, our findings highlight DMPK-promoter silencing by CRISPRi as a promising therapeutic approach for DM1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florent Porquet
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Epigenetics, GIGA-Cancer, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, GIGA-Neurosciences, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Lin Weidong
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Epigenetics, GIGA-Cancer, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Kévin Jehasse
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, GIGA-Neurosciences, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Hélène Gazon
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Epigenetics, GIGA-Cancer, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Maria Kondili
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Silvia Blacher
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Laurent Massotte
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, GIGA-Neurosciences, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | | | - Denis Furling
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Albert Gillet
- Namur Research Institute for Life Sciences (NARILIS), Integrated Veterinary Research Unit (URVI), University of Namur, 5000 Namur, Belgium
| | - Arnaud François Klein
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Vincent Seutin
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, GIGA-Neurosciences, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Luc Willems
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Epigenetics, GIGA-Cancer, ULiège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
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3
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Pnueli L, Melamed P. Epigenetic repression of gonadotropin gene expression via a GnRH-mediated DNA delivery system. Gene Ther 2022; 29:294-303. [PMID: 35301447 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-022-00325-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive axis is activated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gonadotropes to secrete hormones that drive gonadal function and steroidogenesis. Thus repression of this axis, which is conserved across mammals and sexes, can reduce steroid levels and/or prevent reproduction. Steroid-dependent pathologies, including various cancers, are commonly treated with GnRH super-analogs which have long-term side-effects, while humane solutions for controlling reproduction in domestic and wild animal populations are lacking. GnRH-conjugated toxins are undergoing clinical trials for GnRHR-expressing cancer cells, and have been examined for gonadotrope ablation in animals, but showed low and/or transient effects and administration of toxins has many potential complications. Here we exploit GnRH targeting to gonadotropes to deliver DNA encoding an effector that induces gonadotropin gene repressive epigenetic modifications which are perpetuated over time. Several layers of specificity are endowed through targeting to GnRHR-expressing cells and due to local cleavage of the peptide packaging the DNA; the DNA-encoded effector is expressed and directed to the target genes by the DNA binding domain of a highly specific transcription factor. This design has multiple advantages over existing methods of shutting down the reproductive axis, and its modular design should allow adaptation for broad applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilach Pnueli
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Philippa Melamed
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel.
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4
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Suzuki T, Tanaka KF. Downregulation of Bdnf Expression in Adult Mice Causes Body Weight Gain. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:2645-2655. [PMID: 34982395 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03523-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Gain or loss of appetite and resulting body weight changes are commonly observed in major depressive disorders (MDDs). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is broadly expressed in the brain and is thought to play a role in the pathophysiology of MDDs and obesity. Congenital loss of function of BDNF causes weight gain in both humans and rodents; however, it is not clear whether acquired loss of function of BDNF also affects body weight. Thus, we exploited mutant mice in which the Bdnf expression level is regulated by the tetracycline-dependent transcriptional silencer (tTS)-tetracycline operator sequence (tetO) system. Time-controlled Bdnf expression using this system allowed us to establish congenital and acquired loss of function of Bdnf in mice. We demonstrated that changes in Bdnf expression influenced body weight during not only the developmental stage but also the adult stage of mice. Although it is still unclear whether acquired Bdnf loss of function in rodents mimics the pathology of MDD, our findings may bridge the mechanistic gap between MDDs and body weight gain in line with BDNF dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Suzuki
- Division of Brain Sciences, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kenji F Tanaka
- Division of Brain Sciences, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.
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5
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Mohammed Salih M, Carpenter S. What sequencing technologies can teach us about innate immunity. Immunol Rev 2022; 305:9-28. [PMID: 34747035 PMCID: PMC8865538 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
For years, we have taken a reductionist approach to understanding gene regulation through the study of one gene in one cell at a time. While this approach has been fruitful it is laborious and fails to provide a global picture of what is occurring in complex situations involving tightly coordinated immune responses. The emergence of whole-genome techniques provides a system-level view of a response and can provide a plethora of information on events occurring in a cell from gene expression changes to splicing changes and chemical modifications. As with any technology, this often results in more questions than answers, but this wealth of knowledge is providing us with an unprecedented view of what occurs inside our cells during an immune response. In this review, we will discuss the current RNA-sequencing technologies and what they are helping us learn about the innate immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mays Mohammed Salih
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Susan Carpenter
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
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6
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Aronson BE, Scourzic L, Shah V, Swanzey E, Kloetgen A, Polyzos A, Sinha A, Azziz A, Caspi I, Li J, Pelham-Webb B, Glenn RA, Vierbuchen T, Wichterle H, Tsirigos A, Dawlaty MM, Stadtfeld M, Apostolou E. A bipartite element with allele-specific functions safeguards DNA methylation imprints at the Dlk1-Dio3 locus. Dev Cell 2021; 56:3052-3065.e5. [PMID: 34710357 PMCID: PMC8628258 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Loss of imprinting (LOI) results in severe developmental defects, but the mechanisms preventing LOI remain incompletely understood. Here, we dissect the functional components of the imprinting control region of the essential Dlk1-Dio3 locus (called IG-DMR) in pluripotent stem cells. We demonstrate that the IG-DMR consists of two antagonistic elements: a paternally methylated CpG island that prevents recruitment of TET dioxygenases and a maternally unmethylated non-canonical enhancer that ensures expression of the Gtl2 lncRNA by counteracting de novo DNA methyltransferases. Genetic or epigenetic editing of these elements leads to distinct LOI phenotypes with characteristic alternations of allele-specific gene expression, DNA methylation, and 3D chromatin topology. Although repression of the Gtl2 promoter results in dysregulated imprinting, the stability of LOI phenotypes depends on the IG-DMR, suggesting a functional hierarchy. These findings establish the IG-DMR as a bipartite control element that maintains imprinting by allele-specific restriction of the DNA (de)methylation machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boaz E Aronson
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Laurianne Scourzic
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Veevek Shah
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Emily Swanzey
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA; The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, USA
| | - Andreas Kloetgen
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Computational Biology of Infection Research, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Alexander Polyzos
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Abhishek Sinha
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Annabel Azziz
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Inbal Caspi
- Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jiexi Li
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Bobbie Pelham-Webb
- Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD-PhD program, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel A Glenn
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Center for Stem Cell Biology and Center for Epigenetics Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Thomas Vierbuchen
- Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Center for Stem Cell Biology and Center for Epigenetics Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Hynek Wichterle
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; Department of Neurology, Neuroscience and Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease and Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Aristotelis Tsirigos
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Institute for Computational Medicine and Applied Bioinformatics Laboratories, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Meelad M Dawlaty
- Ruth L and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Department of Genetics, Department of Developmental & Molecular Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Matthias Stadtfeld
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA.
| | - Effie Apostolou
- Sanford I Weill Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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7
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Alerasool N, Segal D, Lee H, Taipale M. An efficient KRAB domain for CRISPRi applications in human cells. Nat Methods 2020; 17:1093-1096. [PMID: 33020655 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-020-0966-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat interference (CRISPRi), based on the fusion of inactive Cas9 (dCas9) to the Krüppel-associated box (KRAB) repressor, is a powerful platform for silencing gene expression. However, it suffers from incomplete silencing of target genes. We assayed 57 KRAB domains for their repressive potency and identified the ZIM3 KRAB domain as an exceptionally potent repressor. We establish that ZIM3 KRAB-dCas9 fusion silences gene expression more efficiently than existing platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Alerasool
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dmitri Segal
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hunsang Lee
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mikko Taipale
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Molecular Architecture of Life Program, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR), Toronto, ON, Canada.
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8
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Duarte F, Déglon N. Genome Editing for CNS Disorders. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:579062. [PMID: 33192264 PMCID: PMC7642486 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.579062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) disorders have a social and economic burden on modern societies, and the development of effective therapies is urgently required. Gene editing may prevent or cure a disease by inducing genetic changes at endogenous loci. Genome editing includes not only the insertion, deletion or replacement of nucleotides, but also the modulation of gene expression and epigenetic editing. Emerging technologies based on ZFs, TALEs, and CRISPR/Cas systems have extended the boundaries of genome manipulation and promoted genome editing approaches to the level of promising strategies for counteracting genetic diseases. The parallel development of efficient delivery systems has also increased our access to the CNS. In this review, we describe the various tools available for genome editing and summarize in vivo preclinical studies of CNS genome editing, whilst considering current limitations and alternative approaches to overcome some bottlenecks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Duarte
- Laboratory of Neurotherapies and NeuroModulation, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Neurotherapies and NeuroModulation, Neuroscience Research Center, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Déglon
- Laboratory of Neurotherapies and NeuroModulation, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Neurotherapies and NeuroModulation, Neuroscience Research Center, Lausanne University Hospital and Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
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9
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Gjaltema RAF, Goubert D, Huisman C, del Pilar García Tobilla C, Koncz M, Jellema PG, Wu D, Brouwer U, Kiss A, Verschure PJ, Bank RA, Rots MG. KRAB-Induced Heterochromatin Effectively Silences PLOD2 Gene Expression in Somatic Cells and is Resilient to TGFβ1 Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103634. [PMID: 32455614 PMCID: PMC7279273 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic editing, an emerging technique used for the modulation of gene expression in mammalian cells, is a promising strategy to correct disease-related gene expression. Although epigenetic reprogramming results in sustained transcriptional modulation in several in vivo models, further studies are needed to develop this approach into a straightforward technology for effective and specific interventions. Important goals of current research efforts are understanding the context-dependency of successful epigenetic editing and finding the most effective epigenetic effector(s) for specific tasks. Here we tested whether the fibrosis- and cancer-associated PLOD2 gene can be repressed by the DNA methyltransferase M.SssI, or by the non-catalytic Krüppel associated box (KRAB) repressor directed to the PLOD2 promoter via zinc finger- or CRISPR-dCas9-mediated targeting. M.SssI fusions induced de novo DNA methylation, changed histone modifications in a context-dependent manner, and led to 50%–70% reduction in PLOD2 expression in fibrotic fibroblasts and in MDA-MB-231 cancer cells. Targeting KRAB to PLOD2 resulted in the deposition of repressive histone modifications without DNA methylation and in almost complete PLOD2 silencing. Interestingly, both long-term TGFβ1-induced, as well as unstimulated PLOD2 expression, was completely repressed by KRAB, while M.SssI only prevented the TGFβ1-induced PLOD2 expression. Targeting transiently expressed dCas9-KRAB resulted in sustained PLOD2 repression in HEK293T and MCF-7 cells. Together, these findings point to KRAB outperforming DNA methylation as a small potent targeting epigenetic effector for silencing TGFβ1-induced and uninduced PLOD2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rutger A. F. Gjaltema
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Désirée Goubert
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
| | - Christian Huisman
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
| | - Consuelo del Pilar García Tobilla
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
| | - Mihály Koncz
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (M.K.); (A.K.)
- Doctoral School of Biology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Pytrick G. Jellema
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Dandan Wu
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
| | - Uilke Brouwer
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Antal Kiss
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (M.K.); (A.K.)
| | - Pernette J. Verschure
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Ruud A. Bank
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Marianne G. Rots
- Epigenetic Editing Laboratory, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 EA11, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (R.A.F.G.); (D.G.); (C.H.); (C.d.P.G.T.); (P.G.J.); (D.W.); (U.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-50-3610153
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10
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Robinson EK, Covarrubias S, Carpenter S. The how and why of lncRNA function: An innate immune perspective. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194419. [PMID: 31487549 PMCID: PMC7185634 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2019.194419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing has provided a more complete picture of the composition of the human transcriptome indicating that much of the "blueprint" is a vastness of poorly understood non-protein-coding transcripts. This includes a newly identified class of genes called long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). The lack of sequence conservation for lncRNAs across species meant that their biological importance was initially met with some skepticism. LncRNAs mediate their functions through interactions with proteins, RNA, DNA, or a combination of these. Their functions can often be dictated by their localization, sequence, and/or secondary structure. Here we provide a review of the approaches typically adopted to study the complexity of these genes with an emphasis on recent discoveries within the innate immune field. Finally, we discuss the challenges, as well as the emergence of new technologies that will continue to move this field forward and provide greater insight into the biological importance of this class of genes. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: ncRNA in control of gene expression edited by Kotb Abdelmohsen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elektra K Robinson
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States of America
| | - Sergio Covarrubias
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States of America
| | - Susan Carpenter
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States of America.
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11
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Abstract
DNA methylation plays important roles in determining cellular identity, disease, and environmental responses, but little is known about the mechanisms that drive methylation changes during cellular differentiation and tumorigenesis. Meanwhile, the causal relationship between DNA methylation and transcription remains incompletely understood. Recently developed targeted DNA methylation manipulation tools can address these gaps in knowledge, leading to new insights into how methylation governs gene expression. Here, we summarize technological developments in the DNA methylation editing field and discuss the remaining challenges facing current tools, as well as potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Lei
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yung-Hsin Huang
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Margaret A Goodell
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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12
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Toro CA, Wright H, Aylwin CF, Ojeda SR, Lomniczi A. Trithorax dependent changes in chromatin landscape at enhancer and promoter regions drive female puberty. Nat Commun 2018; 9:57. [PMID: 29302059 PMCID: PMC5754362 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02512-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycomb group (PcG) proteins control the timing of puberty by repressing the Kiss1 gene in hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) neurons. Here we identify two members of the Trithorax group (TrxG) of modifiers, mixed-lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1), and 3 (MLL3), as central components of an activating epigenetic machinery that dynamically counteracts PcG repression. Preceding puberty, MLL1 changes the chromatin configuration at the promoters of Kiss1 and Tac3, two genes required for puberty to occur, from repressive to permissive. Concomitantly, MLL3 institutes a chromatin structure that changes the functional status of a Kiss1 enhancer from poised to active. RNAi-mediated, ARC-specific Mll1 knockdown reduced Kiss1 and Tac3 expression, whereas CRISPR-Cas9-directed epigenome silencing of the Kiss1 enhancer selectively reduced Kiss1 activity. Both interventions delay puberty and disrupt reproductive cyclicity. Our results demonstrate that an epigenetic switch from transcriptional repression to activation is crucial to the regulatory mechanism controlling the timing of mammalian puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Toro
- Primate Genetics Section/Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/Oregon Health and Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Hollis Wright
- Primate Genetics Section/Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/Oregon Health and Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Carlos F Aylwin
- Primate Genetics Section/Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/Oregon Health and Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Sergio R Ojeda
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/Oregon Health and Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.
| | - Alejandro Lomniczi
- Primate Genetics Section/Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center/Oregon Health and Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.
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13
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TRIM28 and Interacting KRAB-ZNFs Control Self-Renewal of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells through Epigenetic Repression of Pro-differentiation Genes. Stem Cell Reports 2017; 9:2065-2080. [PMID: 29198826 PMCID: PMC5785758 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2017.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Reprogramming to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are regulated by epigenetic machinery. Tripartite motif protein 28 (TRIM28), a universal mediator of Krüppel-associated box domain zinc fingers (KRAB-ZNFs), is known to regulate both processes; however, the exact mechanism and identity of participating KRAB-ZNF genes remain unknown. Here, using a reporter system, we show that TRIM28/KRAB-ZNFs alter DNA methylation patterns in addition to H3K9me3 to cause stable gene repression during reprogramming. Using several expression datasets, we identified KRAB-ZNFs (ZNF114, ZNF483, ZNF589) in the human genome that maintain pluripotency. Moreover, we identified target genes repressed by these KRAB-ZNFs. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that these KRAB-ZNFs directly alter gene expression of important developmental genes by modulating H3K9me3 and DNA methylation of their promoters. In summary, TRIM28 employs KRAB-ZNFs to evoke epigenetic silencing of its target differentiation genes via H3K9me3 and DNA methylation. Upon reprogramming KRAB-repressor evokes stable silencing of its target genes KRAB-ZNFs repress target genes required for differentiation of pluripotent cells KRAB-ZNFs are crucial for the maintenance of pluripotency of human stem cells TRIM28/KRAB-ZNFs repress developmental genes through H3K9 and de novo DNA methylation
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14
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Gamper I, Burkhart DL, Bywater MJ, Garcia D, Wilson CH, Kreuzaler PA, Arends MJ, Zheng YW, Perfetto A, Littlewood TD, Evan GI. Determination of the physiological and pathological roles of E2F3 in adult tissues. Sci Rep 2017; 7:9932. [PMID: 28855541 PMCID: PMC5577339 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09494-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
While genetically engineered mice have made an enormous contribution towards the elucidation of human disease, it has hitherto not been possible to tune up or down the level of expression of any endogenous gene. Here we describe compound genetically modified mice in which expression of the endogenous E2f3 gene may be either reversibly elevated or repressed in adult animals by oral administration of tetracycline. This technology is, in principle, applicable to any endogenous gene, allowing direct determination of both elevated and reduced gene expression in physiological and pathological processes. Applying this switchable technology to the key cell cycle transcription factor E2F3, we demonstrate that elevated levels of E2F3 drive ectopic proliferation in multiple tissues. By contrast, E2F3 repression has minimal impact on tissue proliferation or homeostasis in the majority of contexts due to redundancy of adult function with E2F1 and E2F2. In the absence of E2F1 and E2F2, however, repression of E2F3 elicits profound reduction of proliferation in the hematopoietic compartments that is rapidly lethal in adult animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivonne Gamper
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Megan J Bywater
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Daniel Garcia
- The Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, 10010 North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | | | | | - Mark J Arends
- Pathology Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Division of Pathology, Centre for Comparative Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Crewe Road, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Yao-Wu Zheng
- Cardiovasular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | | | | | - Gerard I Evan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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15
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Enríquez P. CRISPR-Mediated Epigenome Editing. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2016; 89:471-486. [PMID: 28018139 PMCID: PMC5168826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence has called into question our understanding of the role that the central dogma of molecular biology plays in human pathology. The conventional view that elucidating the mechanisms for translating genes into proteins can account for a panoply of diseases has proven incomplete. Landmark studies point to epigenetics as a missing piece of the puzzle. However, technological limitations have hindered the study of specific roles for histone post-translational modifications, DNA modifications, and non-coding RNAs in regulation of the epigenome and chromatin structure. This feature highlights CRISPR systems, including CRISPR-Cas9, as novel tools for targeted epigenome editing. It summarizes recent developments in the field, including integration of optogenetic and functional genomic approaches to explore new therapeutic opportunities, and underscores the importance of mitigating current limitations in the field. This comprehensive, analytical assessment identifies current research gaps, forecasts future research opportunities, and argues that as epigenome editing technologies mature, overcoming critical challenges in delivery, specificity, and fidelity should clear the path to bring these technologies into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Enríquez
- To whom all correspondence should be addressed: Paul Enríquez, Department of Structural and Molecular Biochemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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16
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Abstract
Genome targeting has quickly developed as one of the most promising fields in science. By using programmable DNA-binding platforms and nucleases, scientists are now able to accurately edit the genome. These DNA-binding tools have recently also been applied to engineer the epigenome for gene expression modulation. Such epigenetic editing constructs have firmly demonstrated the causal role of epigenetics in instructing gene expression. Another focus of epigenome engineering is to understand the order of events of chromatin remodeling in gene expression regulation. Groundbreaking approaches in this field are beginning to yield novel insights into the function of individual chromatin marks in the context of maintaining cellular phenotype and regulating transient gene expression changes. This review focuses on recent advances in the field of epigenetic editing and highlights its promise for sustained gene expression reprogramming.
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17
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Abstract
Advances in genome engineering technologies have made the precise control over genome sequence and regulation possible across a variety of disciplines. These tools can expand our understanding of fundamental biological processes and create new opportunities for therapeutic designs. The rapid evolution of these methods has also catalyzed a new era of genomics that includes multiple approaches to functionally characterize and manipulate the regulation of genomic information. Here, we review the recent advances of the most widely adopted genome engineering platforms and their application to functional genomics. This includes engineered zinc finger proteins, TALEs/TALENs, and the CRISPR/Cas9 system as nucleases for genome editing, transcription factors for epigenome editing, and other emerging applications. We also present current and potential future applications of these tools, as well as their current limitations and areas for future advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac B Hilton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA; Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA
| | - Charles A Gersbach
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA; Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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18
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Ochiai H, Sugawara T, Yamamoto T. Simultaneous live imaging of the transcription and nuclear position of specific genes. Nucleic Acids Res 2015; 43:e127. [PMID: 26092696 PMCID: PMC4627063 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkv624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between genome organization and gene expression has recently been established. However, the relationships between spatial organization, dynamics, and transcriptional regulation of the genome remain unknown. In this study, we developed a live-imaging method for simultaneous measurements of the transcriptional activity and nuclear position of endogenous genes, which we termed the ‘Real-time Observation of Localization and EXpression (ROLEX)’ system. We demonstrated that ROLEX is highly specific and does not affect the expression level of the target gene. ROLEX enabled detection of sub-genome-wide mobility changes that depended on the state of Nanog transactivation in embryonic stem cells. We believe that the ROLEX system will become a powerful tool for exploring the relationship between transcription and nuclear dynamics in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ochiai
- Research Center for the Mathematics on Chromatin Live Dynamics (RcMcD), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8530, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sugawara
- Research Center for the Mathematics on Chromatin Live Dynamics (RcMcD), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8530, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamamoto
- Research Center for the Mathematics on Chromatin Live Dynamics (RcMcD), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8530, Japan Department of Mathematical and Life Sciences, Graduate School of Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
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