1
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Goicoechea Serrano E, Blázquez-Bondia C, Jaramillo A. T7 phage-assisted evolution of riboswitches using error-prone replication and dual selection. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2377. [PMID: 38287027 PMCID: PMC10824729 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52049-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Leveraging riboswitches, non-coding mRNA fragments pivotal to gene regulation, poses a challenge in effectively selecting and enriching these functional genetic sensors, which can toggle between ON and OFF states in response to their cognate inducers. Here, we show our engineered phage T7, enabling the evolution of a theophylline riboswitch. We have replaced T7's DNA polymerase with a transcription factor controlled by a theophylline riboswitch and have created two types of host environments to propagate the engineered phage. Both types host an error-prone T7 DNA polymerase regulated by a T7 promoter along with another critical gene-either cmk or pifA, depending on the host type. The cmk gene is necessary for T7 replication and is used in the first host type for selection in the riboswitch's ON state. Conversely, the second host type incorporates the pifA gene, leading to abortive T7 infections and used for selection in the riboswitch's OFF state. This dual-selection system, termed T7AE, was then applied to a library of 65,536 engineered T7 phages, each carrying randomized riboswitch variants. Through successive passage in both host types with and without theophylline, we observed an enrichment of phages encoding functional riboswitches that conferred a fitness advantage to the phage in both hosts. The T7AE technique thereby opens new pathways for the evolution and advancement of gene switches, including non-coding RNA-based switches, setting the stage for significant strides in synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Goicoechea Serrano
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
- London BioFoundry, Imperial College Translation & Innovation Hub, White City Campus, 84 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Carlos Blázquez-Bondia
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Alfonso Jaramillo
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
- De novo Synthetic Biology Lab, i2sysbio, CSIC-University of Valencia, Parc Científic Universitat de València, Calle Catedrático Agustín Escardino, 9, 46980, Paterna, Spain.
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2
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Gao Y, Wang L, Wang B. Customizing cellular signal processing by synthetic multi-level regulatory circuits. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8415. [PMID: 38110405 PMCID: PMC10728147 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44256-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
As synthetic biology permeates society, the signal processing circuits in engineered living systems must be customized to meet practical demands. Towards this mission, novel regulatory mechanisms and genetic circuits with unprecedented complexity have been implemented over the past decade. These regulatory mechanisms, such as transcription and translation control, could be integrated into hybrid circuits termed "multi-level circuits". The multi-level circuit design will tremendously benefit the current genetic circuit design paradigm, from modifying basic circuit dynamics to facilitating real-world applications, unleashing our capabilities to customize cellular signal processing and address global challenges through synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanli Gao
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering & ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3FF, UK
| | - Lei Wang
- Center of Synthetic Biology and Integrated Bioengineering & School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310030, China.
| | - Baojun Wang
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering & ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Research Center for Biological Computation, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, 311100, China.
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3
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Montagud-Martínez R, Márquez-Costa R, Rodrigo G. Programmable regulation of translation by harnessing the CRISPR-Cas13 system. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:2616-2619. [PMID: 36757178 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc00058c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The ability to control protein expression at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels is instrumental for the cell to integrate multiple molecular signals and then reach high operational sophistication. Although challenging, fully artificial regulations at different levels are required for boosting systems and synthetic biology. Here, we report the development of a novel framework to regulate translation by repurposing the CRISPR-Cas13 immune system, which uses an RNA-guided ribonuclease. By exploiting a cell-free expression system for prototyping gene regulatory structures, our results demonstrate that CRISPR-dCas13a ribonucleoproteins (d means catalytically dead) can be programmed to repress or activate translation initiation. The performance assessment of the engineered systems also revealed guide RNA design principles. Moreover, we show that the system can work in vivo. This development complements the ability to regulate transcription with other CRISPR-Cas systems and offers potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roser Montagud-Martínez
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), CSIC - University of Valencia, 46980, Paterna, Spain.
| | - Rosa Márquez-Costa
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), CSIC - University of Valencia, 46980, Paterna, Spain.
| | - Guillermo Rodrigo
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), CSIC - University of Valencia, 46980, Paterna, Spain.
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4
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Ryan J, Hong S, Foo M, Kim J, Tang X. Model-Based Investigation of the Relationship between Regulation Level and Pulse Property of I1-FFL Gene Circuits. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:2417-2428. [PMID: 35729788 PMCID: PMC9295143 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Mathematical models are powerful tools in guiding the construction of synthetic biological circuits, given their capability of accurately capturing and predicting circuit dynamics. Recent innovations in RNA technology have enabled the development of a variety of new tools for regulating gene expression at both the transcription and translation levels. However, the effects of different regulation levels on the circuit dynamics remain largely unexplored. In this study, we focus on the type 1 incoherent feed-forward loop (I1-FFL) gene circuit with four different variations (TX, TL, HY-1, HY-2), to investigate how regulation at the transcription and translation levels affect the circuit dynamics. We develop a mechanistic model for each of the four circuits and deploy sensitivity analysis to investigate the circuits' dynamics in terms of pulse generation. Based on the analysis, we observe that the repression regulation mechanism dominates the characteristics of the pulse as compared to the activation regulation mechanism and find that the I1-FFL with transcription repression has a higher chance of generating a pulse meeting the desired criteria. The experimental results in Escherichia coli also confirm our findings from the computational analysis. We expect our findings to facilitate future experimental construction of gene circuits with insights on the selection of appropriate transcription and translation regulation tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Ryan
- Cain
Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana
State University, Baton
Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
| | - Seongho Hong
- Department
of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science
and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, South Korea
| | - Mathias Foo
- School
of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Jongmin Kim
- Department
of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science
and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, South Korea
| | - Xun Tang
- Cain
Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana
State University, Baton
Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
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5
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Maurya R, Gohil N, Bhattacharjee G, Alzahrani KJ, Ramakrishna S, Singh V. Microfluidics for single cell analysis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 186:203-215. [PMID: 35033285 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2021.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cells have several internal molecules that are present in low amounts and any fluctuation in its number drives a change in cell behavior. These molecules present inside the cells are continuously fluctuating, thus producing noises in the intrinsic environment and thereby directly affecting the cellular behavior. Single-cell analysis using microfluidics is an important tool for monitoring cell behavior by analyzing internal molecules. Several gene circuits have been designed for this purpose that are labeled with fluorescence encoding genes for monitoring cell dynamics and behavior. We discuss herewith designed and fabricated microfluidics devices that are used for trapping and tracking cells under controlled environmental conditions. This chapter highlights microfluidics chip for monitoring cells to promote their basic understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupesh Maurya
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
| | - Nisarg Gohil
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
| | - Gargi Bhattacharjee
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
| | - Khalid J Alzahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suresh Ramakrishna
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea; College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Vijai Singh
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India.
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6
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Rostain W, Shen S, Cordero T, Rodrigo G, Jaramillo A. Engineering a Circular Riboregulator in Escherichia coli. BIODESIGN RESEARCH 2020; 2020:1916789. [PMID: 37849901 PMCID: PMC10521646 DOI: 10.34133/2020/1916789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
RNAs of different shapes and sizes, natural or synthetic, can regulate gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Circular RNAs have recently appeared to be more widespread than previously thought, but their role in prokaryotes remains elusive. Here, by inserting a riboregulatory sequence within a group I permuted intron-exon ribozyme, we created a small noncoding RNA that self-splices to produce a circular riboregulator in Escherichia coli. We showed that the resulting riboregulator can trans-activate gene expression by interacting with a cis-repressed messenger RNA. We characterized the system with a fluorescent reporter and with an antibiotic resistance marker, and we modeled this novel posttranscriptional mechanism. This first reported example of a circular RNA regulating gene expression in E. coli adds to an increasing repertoire of RNA synthetic biology parts, and it highlights that topological molecules can play a role in the case of prokaryotic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Rostain
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, UK
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, CNRS-Université d’Évry Val-d’Essonne, 91000 Évry, France
| | - Shensi Shen
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, CNRS-Université d’Évry Val-d’Essonne, 91000 Évry, France
| | - Teresa Cordero
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, UK
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, CSIC-Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Guillermo Rodrigo
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, CNRS-Université d’Évry Val-d’Essonne, 91000 Évry, France
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, CSIC-Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), CSIC-Universitat de València, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Alfonso Jaramillo
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, UK
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, CNRS-Université d’Évry Val-d’Essonne, 91000 Évry, France
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), CSIC-Universitat de València, 46980 Paterna, Spain
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7
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Wrist A, Sun W, Summers RM. The Theophylline Aptamer: 25 Years as an Important Tool in Cellular Engineering Research. ACS Synth Biol 2020; 9:682-697. [PMID: 32142605 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.9b00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The theophylline aptamer was isolated from an oligonucleotide library in 1994. Since that time, the aptamer has found wide utility, particularly in synthetic biology, cellular engineering, and diagnostic applications. The primary application of the theophylline aptamer is in the construction and characterization of synthetic riboswitches for regulation of gene expression. These riboswitches have been used to control cellular motility, regulate carbon metabolism, construct logic gates, screen for mutant enzymes, and control apoptosis. Other applications of the theophylline aptamer in cellular engineering include regulation of RNA interference and genome editing through CRISPR systems. Here we describe the uses of the theophylline aptamer for cellular engineering over the past 25 years. In so doing, we also highlight important synthetic biology applications to control gene expression in a ligand-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Wrist
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - Wanqi Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - Ryan M. Summers
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
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8
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Lehr FX, Hanst M, Vogel M, Kremer J, Göringer HU, Suess B, Koeppl H. Cell-Free Prototyping of AND-Logic Gates Based on Heterogeneous RNA Activators. ACS Synth Biol 2019; 8:2163-2173. [PMID: 31393707 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.9b00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RNA-based devices controlling gene expression bear great promise for synthetic biology, as they offer many advantages such as short response times and light metabolic burden compared to protein-circuits. However, little work has been done regarding their integration to multilevel regulated circuits. In this work, we combined a variety of small transcriptional activator RNAs (STARs) and toehold switches to build highly effective AND-gates. To characterize the components and their dynamic range, we used an Escherichia coli (E. coli) cell-free transcription-translation (TX-TL) system dispensed via nanoliter droplets. We analyzed a prototype gate in vitro as well as in silico, employing parametrized ordinary differential equations (ODEs), for which parameters were inferred via parallel tempering, a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method. On the basis of this analysis, we created nine additional AND-gates and tested them in vitro. The functionality of the gates was found to be highly dependent on the concentration of the activating RNA for either the STAR or the toehold switch. All gates were successfully implemented in vivo, offering a dynamic range comparable to the level of protein circuits. This study shows the potential of a rapid prototyping approach for RNA circuit design, using cell-free systems in combination with a model prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- François-Xavier Lehr
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Maleen Hanst
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64283 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Marc Vogel
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jennifer Kremer
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - H. Ulrich Göringer
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Beatrix Suess
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Heinz Koeppl
- Department of Biology, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64283 Darmstadt, Germany
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9
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Sekurova ON, Schneider O, Zotchev SB. Novel bioactive natural products from bacteria via bioprospecting, genome mining and metabolic engineering. Microb Biotechnol 2019; 12:828-844. [PMID: 30834674 PMCID: PMC6680616 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
For over seven decades, bacteria served as a valuable source of bioactive natural products some of which were eventually developed into drugs to treat infections, cancer and immune system-related diseases. Traditionally, novel compounds produced by bacteria were discovered via conventional bioprospecting based on isolation of potential producers and screening their extracts in a variety of bioassays. Over time, most of the natural products identifiable by this approach were discovered, and the pipeline for new drugs based on bacterially produced metabolites started to run dry. This mini-review highlights recent developments in bacterial bioprospecting for novel compounds that are based on several out-of-the-box approaches, including the following: (i) targeting bacterial species previously unknown to produce any bioactive natural products, (ii) exploring non-traditional environmental niches and methods for isolation of bacteria and (iii) various types of 'genome mining' aimed at unravelling genetic potential of bacteria to produce secondary metabolites. All these approaches have already yielded a number of novel bioactive compounds and, if used wisely, will soon revitalize drug discovery pipeline based on bacterial natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga N. Sekurova
- Department of PharmacognosyUniversity of ViennaAlthanstraße 141090ViennaAustria
| | - Olha Schneider
- Department of PharmacognosyUniversity of ViennaAlthanstraße 141090ViennaAustria
| | - Sergey B. Zotchev
- Department of PharmacognosyUniversity of ViennaAlthanstraße 141090ViennaAustria
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10
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Haines MC, Storch M, Oyarzún DA, Stan GB, Baldwin GS. Riboswitch identification using Ligase-Assisted Selection for the Enrichment of Responsive Ribozymes (LigASERR). Synth Biol (Oxf) 2019; 4:ysz019. [PMID: 32995542 PMCID: PMC7445825 DOI: 10.1093/synbio/ysz019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro selection of ligand-responsive ribozymes can identify rare, functional sequences from large libraries. While powerful, key caveats of this approach include lengthy and demanding experimental workflows; unpredictable experimental outcomes and unknown functionality of enriched sequences in vivo. To address the first of these limitations, we developed Ligase-Assisted Selection for the Enrichment of Responsive Ribozymes (LigASERR). LigASERR is scalable, amenable to automation and requires less time to implement compared to alternative methods. To improve the predictability of experiments, we modeled the underlying selection process, predicting experimental outcomes based on sequence and population parameters. We applied this new methodology and model to the enrichment of a known, in vitro-selected sequence from a bespoke library. Prior to implementing selection, conditions were optimized and target sequence dynamics accurately predicted for the majority of the experiment. In addition to enriching the target sequence, we identified two new, theophylline-activated ribozymes. Notably, all three sequences yielded riboswitches functional in Escherichia coli, suggesting LigASERR and similar in vitro selection methods can be utilized for generating functional riboswitches in this organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Haines
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Marko Storch
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK.,London BioFoundry, Imperial College Translation & Innovation Hub, London, UK
| | - Diego A Oyarzún
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Guy-Bart Stan
- Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Geoff S Baldwin
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
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11
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Galizi R, Jaramillo A. Engineering CRISPR guide RNA riboswitches for in vivo applications. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2019; 55:103-113. [PMID: 30265865 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-based genome editing provides a simple and scalable toolbox for a variety of therapeutic and biotechnology applications. Whilst the fundamental properties of CRISPR proved easily transferable from the native prokaryotic hosts to eukaryotic and multicellular organisms, the tight control of the CRISPR-editing activity remains a major challenge. Here we summarise recent developments of CRISPR and riboswitch technologies and recommend novel functionalised synthetic-gRNA (sgRNA) designs to achieve inducible and spatiotemporal regulation of CRISPR-based genetic editors in response to cellular or extracellular stimuli. We believe that future advances of these tools will have major implications for both basic and applied research, spanning from fundamental genetic studies and synthetic biology to genetic editing and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Galizi
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Alfonso Jaramillo
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, United Kingdom; ISSB, CNRS, Univ Evry, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, 91025 Evry, France; Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), University of Valencia-CSIC, 46980 Paterna, Spain.
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12
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Binary addition in a living cell based on riboregulation. PLoS Genet 2018; 14:e1007548. [PMID: 30024870 PMCID: PMC6067762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic biology aims at (re-)programming living cells like computers to perform new functions for a variety of applications. Initial work rested on transcription factors, but regulatory RNAs have recently gained much attention due to their high programmability. However, functional circuits mainly implemented with regulatory RNAs are quite limited. Here, we report the engineering of a fundamental arithmetic logic unit based on de novo riboregulation to sum two bits of information encoded in molecular concentrations. Our designer circuit robustly performs the intended computation in a living cell encoding the result as fluorescence amplitudes. The whole system exploits post-transcriptional control to switch on tightly silenced genes with small RNAs, together with allosteric transcription factors to sense the molecular signals. This important result demonstrates that regulatory RNAs can be key players in synthetic biology, and it paves the way for engineering more complex RNA-based biocomputers using this designer circuit as a building block.
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13
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Patel S, Panchasara H, Braddick D, Gohil N, Singh V. Synthetic small RNAs: Current status, challenges, and opportunities. J Cell Biochem 2018; 119:9619-9639. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Patel
- Department of Microbiology, Synthetic Biology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Advanced Research, Koba Institutional Area Gandhinagar India
| | - Happy Panchasara
- Department of Microbiology, Synthetic Biology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Advanced Research, Koba Institutional Area Gandhinagar India
| | | | - Nisarg Gohil
- Department of Microbiology, Synthetic Biology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Advanced Research, Koba Institutional Area Gandhinagar India
| | - Vijai Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Synthetic Biology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Advanced Research, Koba Institutional Area Gandhinagar India
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14
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Jang S, Jang S, Yang J, Seo SW, Jung GY. RNA-based dynamic genetic controllers: development strategies and applications. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2017; 53:1-11. [PMID: 29132120 PMCID: PMC7126020 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Unique properties of RNA lead to the development of RNA-based dynamic genetic controllers. Natural riboswitches are re-engineered to detect new molecules. RNA-based regulatory mechanisms are exploited to construct novel dynamic RNA controllers. Computational methods and in vitro–in vivo selection enable de novo design of dynamic RNA controllers. Dynamic RNA controllers are utilized for metabolic engineering and synthetic biology.
Dynamic regulation of gene expression in response to various molecules is crucial for both basic science and practical applications. RNA is considered an attractive material for creating dynamic genetic controllers because of its specific binding to ligands, structural flexibility, programmability, and small size. Here, we review recent advances in strategies for developing RNA-based dynamic controllers and applications. First, we describe studies that re-engineered natural riboswitches to generate new dynamic controllers. Next, we summarize RNA-based regulatory mechanisms that have been exploited to build novel artificial dynamic controllers. We also discuss computational methods and high-throughput selection approaches for de novo design of dynamic RNA controllers. Finally, we explain applications of dynamic RNA controllers for metabolic engineering and synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungho Jang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungyeon Jang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jina Yang
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Process, Seoul National University, 1, Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-Gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Woo Seo
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Process, Seoul National University, 1, Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-Gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gyoo Yeol Jung
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea; School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Rodrigo G, Prakash S, Shen S, Majer E, Daròs JA, Jaramillo A. Model-based design of RNA hybridization networks implemented in living cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2017; 45:9797-9808. [PMID: 28934501 PMCID: PMC5766206 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic gene circuits allow the behavior of living cells to be reprogrammed, and non-coding small RNAs (sRNAs) are increasingly being used as programmable regulators of gene expression. However, sRNAs (natural or synthetic) are generally used to regulate single target genes, while complex dynamic behaviors would require networks of sRNAs regulating each other. Here, we report a strategy for implementing such networks that exploits hybridization reactions carried out exclusively by multifaceted sRNAs that are both targets of and triggers for other sRNAs. These networks are ultimately coupled to the control of gene expression. We relied on a thermodynamic model of the different stable conformational states underlying this system at the nucleotide level. To test our model, we designed five different RNA hybridization networks with a linear architecture, and we implemented them in Escherichia coli. We validated the network architecture at the molecular level by native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, as well as the network function at the bacterial population and single-cell levels with a fluorescent reporter. Our results suggest that it is possible to engineer complex cellular programs based on RNA from first principles. Because these networks are mainly based on physical interactions, our designs could be expanded to other organisms as portable regulatory resources or to implement biological computations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Rodrigo
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Université d'Évry Val d'Essonne-CNRS, F-91000 Évry, France.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, CSIC-Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Satya Prakash
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Shensi Shen
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Université d'Évry Val d'Essonne-CNRS, F-91000 Évry, France
| | - Eszter Majer
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, CSIC-Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - José-Antonio Daròs
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, CSIC-Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Alfonso Jaramillo
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Université d'Évry Val d'Essonne-CNRS, F-91000 Évry, France.,Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.,Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), University of Valencia-CSIC, 46980 Paterna, Spain
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16
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Brophy JAN, LaRue T, Dinneny JR. Understanding and engineering plant form. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2017; 79:68-77. [PMID: 28864344 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A plant's form is an important determinant of its fitness and economic value. Here, we review strategies for producing plants with altered forms. Historically, the process of changing a plant's form has been slow in agriculture, requiring iterative rounds of growth and selection. We discuss modern techniques for identifying genes involved in the development of plant form and tools that will be needed to effectively design and engineer plants with altered forms. Synthetic genetic circuits are highlighted for their potential to generate novel plant forms. We emphasize understanding development as a prerequisite to engineering and discuss the potential role of computer models in translating knowledge about single genes or pathways into a more comprehensive understanding of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A N Brophy
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Plant Biology, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Therese LaRue
- Stanford University, Department of Biology, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - José R Dinneny
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Plant Biology, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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17
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Re A. Synthetic Gene Expression Circuits for Designing Precision Tools in Oncology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2017; 5:77. [PMID: 28894736 PMCID: PMC5581392 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2017.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Precision medicine in oncology needs to enhance its capabilities to match diagnostic and therapeutic technologies to individual patients. Synthetic biology streamlines the design and construction of functionalized devices through standardization and rational engineering of basic biological elements decoupled from their natural context. Remarkable improvements have opened the prospects for the availability of synthetic devices of enhanced mechanism clarity, robustness, sensitivity, as well as scalability and portability, which might bring new capabilities in precision cancer medicine implementations. In this review, we begin by presenting a brief overview of some of the major advances in the engineering of synthetic genetic circuits aimed to the control of gene expression and operating at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional/translational, and post-translational levels. We then focus on engineering synthetic circuits as an enabling methodology for the successful establishment of precision technologies in oncology. We describe significant advancements in our capabilities to tailor synthetic genetic circuits to specific applications in tumor diagnosis, tumor cell- and gene-based therapy, and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Re
- Centre for Sustainable Future Technologies, Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaTorino, Italy
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18
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Parlea L, Puri A, Kasprzak W, Bindewald E, Zakrevsky P, Satterwhite E, Joseph K, Afonin KA, Shapiro BA. Cellular Delivery of RNA Nanoparticles. ACS COMBINATORIAL SCIENCE 2016; 18:527-47. [PMID: 27509068 PMCID: PMC6345529 DOI: 10.1021/acscombsci.6b00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
RNA nanostructures can be programmed to exhibit defined sizes, shapes and stoichiometries from naturally occurring or de novo designed RNA motifs. These constructs can be used as scaffolds to attach functional moieties, such as ligand binding motifs or gene expression regulators, for nanobiology applications. This review is focused on four areas of importance to RNA nanotechnology: the types of RNAs of particular interest for nanobiology, the assembly of RNA nanoconstructs, the challenges of cellular delivery of RNAs in vivo, and the delivery carriers that aid in the matter. The available strategies for the design of nucleic acid nanostructures, as well as for formulation of their carriers, make RNA nanotechnology an important tool in both basic research and applied biomedical science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Parlea
- Gene Regulation and Chromosome Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Anu Puri
- Gene Regulation and Chromosome Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Wojciech Kasprzak
- Basic Science Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Eckart Bindewald
- Basic Science Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Paul Zakrevsky
- Gene Regulation and Chromosome Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Emily Satterwhite
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Kenya Joseph
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Kirill A. Afonin
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
- Nanoscale Science Program, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte North Carolina 28223, United States
- The Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Bruce A. Shapiro
- Gene Regulation and Chromosome Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
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19
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Horbal L, Luzhetskyy A. Dual control system - A novel scaffolding architecture of an inducible regulatory device for the precise regulation of gene expression. Metab Eng 2016; 37:11-23. [PMID: 27040671 PMCID: PMC4915818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Here, we present a novel scaffolding architecture of an inducible regulatory device. This dual control system is completely silent in the off stage and is coupled to the regulation of gene expression at both the transcriptional and translational levels. This system also functions as an AND gate. We demonstrated the effectiveness of the cumate-riboswitch dual control system for the control of pamamycin production in Streptomyces albus. Placing the cre recombinase gene under the control of this system permitted the construction of synthetic devices with non-volatile memory that sense the signal and respond by altering DNA at the chromosomal level, thereby producing changes that are heritable. In addition, we present a library of synthetic inducible promoters based on the previously described cumate switch. With only one inducer and different promoters, we demonstrate that simultaneous modulation of the expression of several genes to different levels in various operons is possible. Because all modules of the AND gates are functional in bacteria other than Streptomyces, we anticipate that these regulatory devices can be used to control gene expression in other Actinobacteria. The features described in this study make these systems promising tools for metabolic engineering and biotechnology in Actinobacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Horbal
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; University of Saarland, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 66123 Saarbrucken, Germany
| | - A Luzhetskyy
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; University of Saarland, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 66123 Saarbrucken, Germany.
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20
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Kushwaha M, Rostain W, Prakash S, Duncan JN, Jaramillo A. Using RNA as Molecular Code for Programming Cellular Function. ACS Synth Biol 2016; 5:795-809. [PMID: 26999422 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.5b00297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
RNA is involved in a wide-range of important molecular processes in the cell, serving diverse functions: regulatory, enzymatic, and structural. Together with its ease and predictability of design, these properties can lead RNA to become a useful handle for biological engineers with which to control the cellular machinery. By modifying the many RNA links in cellular processes, it is possible to reprogram cells toward specific design goals. We propose that RNA can be viewed as a molecular programming language that, together with protein-based execution platforms, can be used to rewrite wide ranging aspects of cellular function. In this review, we catalogue developments in the use of RNA parts, methods, and associated computational models that have contributed to the programmability of biology. We discuss how RNA part repertoires have been combined to build complex genetic circuits, and review recent applications of RNA-based parts and circuitry. We explore the future potential of RNA engineering and posit that RNA programmability is an important resource for firmly establishing an era of rationally designed synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Kushwaha
- Warwick
Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - William Rostain
- Warwick
Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, U.K
- iSSB, Genopole,
CNRS, UEVE, Université Paris-Saclay, Évry, France
| | - Satya Prakash
- Warwick
Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - John N. Duncan
- Warwick
Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Alfonso Jaramillo
- Warwick
Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre (WISB) and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, U.K
- iSSB, Genopole,
CNRS, UEVE, Université Paris-Saclay, Évry, France
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21
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Abstract
Synthetic biology promises to create high-impact solutions to challenges in the areas of biotechnology, human/animal health, the environment, energy, materials and food security. Equally, synthetic biologists create tools and strategies that have the potential to help us answer important fundamental questions in biology. Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology (WISB) pursues both of these mutually complementary 'build to apply' and 'build to understand' approaches. This is reflected in our research structure, in which a core theme on predictive biosystems engineering develops underpinning understanding as well as next-generation experimental/theoretical tools, and these are then incorporated into three applied themes in which we engineer biosynthetic pathways, microbial communities and microbial effector systems in plants. WISB takes a comprehensive approach to training, education and outreach. For example, WISB is a partner in the EPSRC/BBSRC-funded U.K. Doctoral Training Centre in synthetic biology, we have developed a new undergraduate module in the subject, and we have established five WISB Research Career Development Fellowships to support young group leaders. Research in Ethical, Legal and Societal Aspects (ELSA) of synthetic biology is embedded in our centre activities. WISB has been highly proactive in building an international research and training network that includes partners in Barcelona, Boston, Copenhagen, Madrid, Marburg, São Paulo, Tartu and Valencia.
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Affiliation(s)
- John McCarthy
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.
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22
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KARAGIANNIS P, FUJITA Y, SAITO H. RNA-based gene circuits for cell regulation. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2016; 92:412-422. [PMID: 27840389 PMCID: PMC5328788 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.92.412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A major goal of synthetic biology is to control cell behavior. RNA-mediated genetic switches (RNA switches) are devices that serve this purpose, as they can control gene expressions in response to input signals. In general, RNA switches consist of two domains: an aptamer domain, which binds to an input molecule, and an actuator domain, which controls the gene expression. An input binding to the aptamer can cause the actuator to alter the RNA structure, thus changing access to translation machinery. The assembly of multiple RNA switches has led to complex gene circuits for cell therapies, including the selective killing of pathological cells and purification of cell populations. The inclusion of RNA binding proteins, such as L7Ae, increases the repertoire and precision of the circuit. In this short review, we discuss synthetic RNA switches for gene regulation and their potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter KARAGIANNIS
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko FUJITA
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirohide SAITO
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- Correspondence should be addressed: H. Saito, Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan (e-mail: )
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23
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Kharma N, Varin L, Abu-Baker A, Ouellet J, Najeh S, Ehdaeivand MR, Belmonte G, Ambri A, Rouleau G, Perreault J. Automated design of hammerhead ribozymes and validation by targeting the PABPN1 gene transcript. Nucleic Acids Res 2015; 44:e39. [PMID: 26527730 PMCID: PMC4770207 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkv1111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a new publicly accessible web-service, RiboSoft, which implements a comprehensive hammerhead ribozyme design procedure. It accepts as input a target sequence (and some design parameters) then generates a set of ranked hammerhead ribozymes, which target the input sequence. This paper describes the implemented procedure, which takes into consideration multiple objectives leading to a multi-objective ranking of the computer-generated ribozymes. Many ribozymes were assayed and validated, including four ribozymes targeting the transcript of a disease-causing gene (a mutant version of PABPN1). These four ribozymes were successfully tested in vitro and in vivo, for their ability to cleave the targeted transcript. The wet-lab positive results of the test are presented here demonstrating the real-world potential of both hammerhead ribozymes and RiboSoft. RiboSoft is freely available at the website http://ribosoft.fungalgenomics.ca/ribosoft/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawwaf Kharma
- Electrical & Computer Eng. Dept., Concordia University, 1455 boul. de Maisonneuve O., Montreal, QC, H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Luc Varin
- Biology Department, Concordia University, 7141 rue Sherbrooke O., Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Aida Abu-Baker
- Montreal Neurological Hospital and Institute, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Jonathan Ouellet
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, 531 boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Sabrine Najeh
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, 531 boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7, Canada
| | | | - Gabriel Belmonte
- Electrical & Computer Eng. Dept., Concordia University, 1455 boul. de Maisonneuve O., Montreal, QC, H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Anas Ambri
- Electrical & Computer Eng. Dept., Concordia University, 1455 boul. de Maisonneuve O., Montreal, QC, H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Guy Rouleau
- Montreal Neurological Hospital and Institute, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Jonathan Perreault
- INRS - Institut Armand-Frappier, 531 boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC, H7V 1B7, Canada
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24
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Peters G, Coussement P, Maertens J, Lammertyn J, De Mey M. Putting RNA to work: Translating RNA fundamentals into biotechnological engineering practice. Biotechnol Adv 2015; 33:1829-44. [PMID: 26514597 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Revised: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic biology, in close concert with systems biology, is revolutionizing the field of metabolic engineering by providing novel tools and technologies to rationally, in a standardized way, reroute metabolism with a view to optimally converting renewable resources into a broad range of bio-products, bio-materials and bio-energy. Increasingly, these novel synthetic biology tools are exploiting the extensive programmable nature of RNA, vis-à-vis DNA- and protein-based devices, to rationally design standardized, composable, and orthogonal parts, which can be scaled and tuned promptly and at will. This review gives an extensive overview of the recently developed parts and tools for i) modulating gene expression ii) building genetic circuits iii) detecting molecules, iv) reporting cellular processes and v) building RNA nanostructures. These parts and tools are becoming necessary armamentarium for contemporary metabolic engineering. Furthermore, the design criteria, technological challenges, and recent metabolic engineering success stories of the use of RNA devices are highlighted. Finally, the future trends in transforming metabolism through RNA engineering are critically evaluated and summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gert Peters
- Centre of Expertise Industrial Biotechnology and Biocatalysis, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Coussement
- Centre of Expertise Industrial Biotechnology and Biocatalysis, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jo Maertens
- Centre of Expertise Industrial Biotechnology and Biocatalysis, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Lammertyn
- BIOSYST-MeBioS, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 42, 3001 Louvain, Belgium
| | - Marjan De Mey
- Centre of Expertise Industrial Biotechnology and Biocatalysis, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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