1
|
Boyd R, Kennebeck M, Miranda A, Liu Z, Silverman S. Site-specific N-alkylation of DNA oligonucleotide nucleobases by DNAzyme-catalyzed reductive amination. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:8702-8716. [PMID: 39051544 PMCID: PMC11347174 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA and RNA nucleobase modifications are biologically relevant and valuable in fundamental biochemical and biophysical investigations of nucleic acids. However, directly introducing site-specific nucleobase modifications into long unprotected oligonucleotides is a substantial challenge. In this study, we used in vitro selection to identify DNAzymes that site-specifically N-alkylate the exocyclic nucleobase amines of particular cytidine, guanosine, and adenosine (C, G and A) nucleotides in DNA substrates, by reductive amination using a 5'-benzaldehyde oligonucleotide as the reaction partner. The new DNAzymes each require one or more of Mg2+, Mn2+, and Zn2+ as metal ion cofactors and have kobs from 0.04 to 0.3 h-1, with rate enhancement as high as ∼104 above the splinted background reaction. Several of the new DNAzymes are catalytically active when an RNA substrate is provided in place of DNA. Similarly, several new DNAzymes function when a small-molecule benzaldehyde compound replaces the 5'-benzaldehyde oligonucleotide. These findings expand the scope of DNAzyme catalysis to include nucleobase N-alkylation by reductive amination. Further development of this new class of DNAzymes is anticipated to facilitate practical covalent modification and labeling of DNA and RNA substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Boyd
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Morgan M Kennebeck
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Aurora A Miranda
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Zehui Liu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Scott K Silverman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Huang LH, Hsieh YY, Yang FA, Liao WC. DNA-modified Prussian blue nanozymes for enhanced electrochemical biosensing. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:9770-9780. [PMID: 38597919 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00387j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Prussian blue nanoparticles exhibit the potential to be employed in bioanalytical applications due to their robust stability, peroxidase-like catalytic functionality, straightforward synthesis, and biocompatibility. An efficient approach is presented for the synthesis of nucleic acid-modified Prussian blue nanoparticles (DNA-PBNPs), utilizing nanoparticle porosity to adsorb nucleic acids (polyT). This strategic adsorption leads to the exposure of nucleic acid sequences on the particle surface while retaining catalytic activity. DNA-PBNPs further couple with functional nucleic acid sequences and aptamers through complementary base pairing to act as transducers in biosensors and amplify signal acquisition. Subsequently, we integrated a copper ion-dependent DNAzyme (Cu2+-DNAzyme) and a vascular endothelial growth factor aptamer (VEGF aptamer) onto screen-printed electrodes to serve as recognition elements for analytes. Significantly, our approach leverages DNA-PBNPs as a superior alternative to traditional enzyme-linked antibodies in electrochemical biosensors, thereby enhancing both the efficiency and adaptability of these devices. Our study conclusively demonstrates the application of DNA-PBNPs in two different biosensing paradigms: the sensitive detection of copper ions and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These results indicate the promising potential of DNA-modified Prussian blue nanoparticles in advancing bioanalytical sensing technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Hui Huang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Yu Hsieh
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
| | - Fu-An Yang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Ching Liao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan.
- Medical Device Innovation and Translation Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang Z, Wei W, Chen S, Yang J, Song D, Chen Y, Zhao Z, Chen J, Wang F, Wang J, Li Z, Liang Y, Yu H. Chemoenzymatic Installation of Site-Specific Chemical Groups on DNA Enhances the Catalytic Activity. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:7052-7062. [PMID: 38427585 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Functional DNAs are valuable molecular tools in chemical biology and analytical chemistry but suffer from low activities due to their limited chemical functionalities. Here, we present a chemoenzymatic method for site-specific installation of diverse functional groups on DNA, and showcase the application of this method to enhance the catalytic activity of a DNA catalyst. Through chemoenzymatic introduction of distinct chemical groups, such as hydroxyl, carboxyl, and benzyl, at specific positions, we achieve significant enhancements in the catalytic activity of the RNA-cleaving deoxyribozyme 10-23. A single carboxyl modification results in a 100-fold increase, while dual modifications (carboxyl and benzyl) yield an approximately 700-fold increase in activity when an RNA cleavage reaction is catalyzed on a DNA-RNA chimeric substrate. The resulting dually modified DNA catalyst, CaBn, exhibits a kobs of 3.76 min-1 in the presence of 1 mM Mg2+ and can be employed for fluorescent imaging of intracellular magnesium ions. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal the superior capability of CaBn to recruit magnesium ions to metal-ion-binding site 2 and adopt a catalytically competent conformation. Our work provides a broadly accessible strategy for DNA functionalization with diverse chemical modifications, and CaBn offers a highly active DNA catalyst with immense potential in chemistry and biotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ze Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wanqing Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Siqi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jintao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Dongfan Song
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yinghan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zerun Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Jiawen Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Fulong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jiahuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhe Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Hanyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kennebeck MM, Kaminsky CK, Massa MA, Das PK, Boyd RD, Bishka M, Tricarico JT, Silverman SK. DNAzyme-Catalyzed Site-Specific N-Acylation of DNA Oligonucleotide Nucleobases. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202317565. [PMID: 38157448 PMCID: PMC10873475 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202317565] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
We used in vitro selection to identify DNAzymes that acylate the exocyclic nucleobase amines of cytidine, guanosine, and adenosine in DNA oligonucleotides. The acyl donor was the 2,3,5,6-tetrafluorophenyl ester (TFPE) of a 5'-carboxyl oligonucleotide. Yields are as high as >95 % in 6 h. Several of the N-acylation DNAzymes are catalytically active with RNA rather than DNA oligonucleotide substrates, and eight of nine DNAzymes for modifying C are site-specific (>95 %) for one particular substrate nucleotide. These findings expand the catalytic ability of DNA to include site-specific N-acylation of oligonucleotide nucleobases. Future efforts will investigate the DNA and RNA substrate sequence generality of DNAzymes for oligonucleotide nucleobase N-acylation, toward a universal approach for site-specific oligonucleotide modification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan M Kennebeck
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| | - Caroline K Kaminsky
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| | - Maria A Massa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| | - Prakriti K Das
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| | - Robert D Boyd
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| | - Michelle Bishka
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| | - J Tomas Tricarico
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| | - Scott K Silverman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL-61801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Montserrat Pagès A, Hertog M, Nicolaï B, Spasic D, Lammertyn J. Unraveling the Kinetics of the 10-23 RNA-Cleaving DNAzyme. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13686. [PMID: 37761982 PMCID: PMC10531344 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813686] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA-based enzymes, or DNAzymes, are single-stranded DNA sequences with the ability to catalyze various chemical reactions, including the cleavage of the bond between two RNA nucleotides. Lately, an increasing interest has been observed in these RNA-cleaving DNAzymes in the biosensing and therapeutic fields for signal generation and the modulation of gene expression, respectively. Additionally, multiple efforts have been made to study the effects of the reaction environment and the sequence of the catalytic core on the conversion of the substrate into product. However, most of these studies have only reported alterations of the general reaction course, but only a few have focused on how each individual reaction step is affected. In this work, we present for the first time a mathematical model that describes and predicts the reaction of the 10-23 RNA-cleaving DNAzyme. Furthermore, the model has been employed to study the effect of temperature, magnesium cations and shorter substrate-binding arms of the DNAzyme on the different kinetic rate constants, broadening the range of conditions in which the model can be exploited. In conclusion, this work depicts the prospects of such mathematical models to study and anticipate the course of a reaction given a particular environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aida Montserrat Pagès
- Department of Biosystems, Biosensors Group, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Hertog
- Department of Biosystems, Postharvest Group, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart Nicolaï
- Department of Biosystems, Postharvest Group, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dragana Spasic
- Department of Biosystems, Biosensors Group, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Lammertyn
- Department of Biosystems, Biosensors Group, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang S, Silverman SK. Defining the substrate scope of DNAzyme catalysis for reductive amination with aliphatic amines. Org Biomol Chem 2023; 21:1910-1919. [PMID: 36786764 DOI: 10.1039/d3ob00070b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Amines can be alkylated using various reactions, such as reductive amination of aldehydes. In this study, we sought DNAzymes as catalytic DNA sequences that promote reductive amination with aliphatic amines, including DNA-anchored peptide substrates with lysine residues. By in vitro selection starting with either N40 or N20 random DNA pools, we identified many DNAzymes that catalyze reductive amination between the DNA oligonucleotide-anchored aliphatic amino group of DNA-C3-NH2 (C3 = short three-carbon tether) and a DNA-anchored benzaldehyde group in the presence of NaCNBH3 as reducing agent. At pH 5.2, 6.0, 7.5, or 9.0 in the presence of various divalent metal ion cofactors including Mg2+, Mn2+, Zn2+ and Ni2+, the DNAzymes have kobs up to 0.12 h-1 and up to 130-fold rate enhancement relative to the DNA-splinted but uncatalyzed background reaction. However, analogous selection experiments did not lead to any DNAzymes that function with DNA-HEG-NH2 [HEG = long hexa(ethylene glycol) tether], or with short- and long-tethered DNA-AAAKAA and DNA-HEG-AAAKAA lysine-containing hexapeptide substrates (A = alanine, K = lysine). Including a variety of other amino acids in place of the neighboring alanines also did not lead to DNAzymes. These findings establish a practical limit on the substrate scope of DNAzyme catalysis for N-alkylation of aliphatic amines by reductive amination. The lack of DNAzymes for reductive amination with any substrate more structurally complex than DNA-C3-NH2 is likely related to the challenge in binding and spatially organizing those other substrates. Because other reactions such as aliphatic amine N-acylation are feasible for DNAzymes with DNA-anchored peptides, our findings show that the ability to identify DNAzymes depends strongly on both the investigated reaction and the composition of the substrate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shukun Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | - Scott K Silverman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cao X, Chen C, Zhu Q. Biosensors based on functional nucleic acids and isothermal amplification techniques. Talanta 2023; 253:123977. [PMID: 36201957 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the past few years, with the in-depth research of functional nucleic acids and isothermal amplification techniques, their applications in the field of biosensing have attracted great interest. Since functional nucleic acids have excellent flexibility and convenience in their structural design, they have significant advantages as recognition elements in biosensing. At the same time, isothermal amplification techniques have higher amplification efficiency, so the combination of functional nucleic acids and isothermal amplification techniques can greatly promote the widespread application of biosensors. For the purpose of further improving the performance of biosensors, this review introduces several widely used functional nucleic acids and isothermal amplification techniques, as well as their classification, basic principles, application characteristics, and summarizes their important applications in the field of biosensing. We hope to provide some references for the design and construction of new tactics to enhance the detection sensitivity and detection range of biosensing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuen Cao
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Chuanpin Chen
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Qubo Zhu
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang Y, Ji Z, Wang X, Cao Y, Pan H. Single-Molecule Study of DNAzyme Reveals Its Intrinsic Conformational Dynamics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021212. [PMID: 36674728 PMCID: PMC9864658 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
DNAzyme is a class of DNA molecules that can perform catalytic functions with high selectivity towards specific metal ions. Due to its potential applications for biosensors and medical therapeutics, DNAzyme has been extensively studied to characterize the relationships between its biochemical properties and functions. Similar to protein enzymes and ribozymes, DNAzymes have been found to undergo conformational changes in a metal-ion-dependent manner for catalysis. Despite the important role the conformation plays in the catalysis process, such structural and dynamic information might not be revealed by conventional approaches. Here, by using the single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (smFRET) technique, we were able to investigate the detailed conformational dynamics of a uranyl-specific DNAzyme 39E. We observed conformation switches of 39E to a folded state with the addition of Mg2+ and to an extended state with the addition of UO22+. Furthermore, 39E can switch to a more compact configuration with or without divalent metal ions. Our findings reveal that 39E can undergo conformational changes spontaneously between different configurations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Zhang
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325001, China
- Wenzhou–Kean University, Wenzhou 325060, China
| | - Zongzhou Ji
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325001, China
- Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325001, China
| | - Yi Cao
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325001, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Shounuo City Light West Block, Qingdao Road 3716#, Huaiyin District, Jinan 250117, China
- National Laboratory of Solid–State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Hai Pan
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325001, China
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lin WC, Tang HC, Wang HY, Kao CY, Chang YC, Li AH, Yang SB, Mou KY. Fragment-Directed Random Mutagenesis by the Reverse Kunkel Method. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:1658-1668. [PMID: 35324156 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Two fundamentally different approaches are routinely used for protein engineering: user-defined mutagenesis and random mutagenesis, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here, we invent a unique mutagenesis protocol, which combines the advantages of user-defined mutagenesis and random mutagenesis. The new method, termed the reverse Kunkel method, allows the user to create random mutations at multiple specified regions in a one-pot reaction. We demonstrated the reverse Kunkel method by mimicking the somatic hypermutation in antibodies that introduces random mutations concentrated in complementarity-determining regions. Coupling with the phage display and yeast display selections, we successfully generated dramatically improved antibodies against a model protein and a neurotransmitter peptide in terms of affinity and immunostaining performance. The reverse Kunkel method is especially suitable for engineering proteins whose activities are determined by multiple variable regions, such as antibodies and adeno-associated virus capsids, or whose functional domains are composed of several discontinuous sequences, such as Cas9 and Cas12a.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ching Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Cheng Tang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Han Ying Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yi Kao
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
- Taiwan International Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - You-Chiun Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
- Taiwan International Graduate Program in Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Athena Hsu Li
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
- Taiwan International Graduate Program in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Shi-Bing Yang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Kurt Yun Mou
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Göppel T, Rosenberger JH, Altaner B, Gerland U. Thermodynamic and Kinetic Sequence Selection in Enzyme-Free Polymer Self-Assembly Inside a Non-Equilibrium RNA Reactor. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12040567. [PMID: 35455058 PMCID: PMC9032526 DOI: 10.3390/life12040567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The RNA world is one of the principal hypotheses to explain the emergence of living systems on the prebiotic Earth. It posits that RNA oligonucleotides acted as both carriers of information as well as catalytic molecules, promoting their own replication. However, it does not explain the origin of the catalytic RNA molecules. How could the transition from a pre-RNA to an RNA world occur? A starting point to answer this question is to analyze the dynamics in sequence space on the lowest level, where mononucleotide and short oligonucleotides come together and collectively evolve into larger molecules. To this end, we study the sequence-dependent self-assembly of polymers from a random initial pool of short building blocks via templated ligation. Templated ligation requires two strands that are hybridized adjacently on a third strand. The thermodynamic stability of such a configuration crucially depends on the sequence context and, therefore, significantly influences the ligation probability. However, the sequence context also has a kinetic effect, since non-complementary nucleotide pairs in the vicinity of the ligation site stall the ligation reaction. These sequence-dependent thermodynamic and kinetic effects are explicitly included in our stochastic model. Using this model, we investigate the system-level dynamics inside a non-equilibrium ‘RNA reactor’ enabling a fast chemical activation of the termini of interacting oligomers. Moreover, the RNA reactor subjects the oligomer pool to periodic temperature changes inducing the reshuffling of the system. The binding stability of strands typically grows with the number of complementary nucleotides forming the hybridization site. While shorter strands unbind spontaneously during the cold phase, larger complexes only disassemble during the temperature peaks. Inside the RNA reactor, strand growth is balanced by cleavage via hydrolysis, such that the oligomer pool eventually reaches a non-equilibrium stationary state characterized by its length and sequence distribution. How do motif-dependent energy and stalling parameters affect the sequence composition of the pool of long strands? As a critical factor for self-enhancing sequence selection, we identify kinetic stalling due to non-complementary base pairs at the ligation site. Kinetic stalling enables cascades of self-amplification that result in a strong reduction of occupied states in sequence space. Moreover, we discuss the significance of the symmetry breaking for the transition from a pre-RNA to an RNA world.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive DNA-based hydrogels are attracting growing interest because of their smart responsiveness, excellent biocompatibility, regulated biodegradability, and programmable design properties. Integration of reconfigurable DNA architectures and switchable supramolecular moieties (as cross-linkers) in hydrogels by responding to external stimuli provides an ideal approach for the reversible tuning structural and mechanical properties of the hydrogels, which can be exploited in the development of intelligent DNA-based materials. This review highlights recent advances in the design of responsive pure DNA hydrogels, DNA-polymer hybrid hydrogels, and autonomous DNA-based hydrogels with transient behaviors. A variety of chemically and physically triggered DNA-based stimuli-responsive hydrogels and their versatile applications in biosensing, biocatalysis, cell culture and separation, drug delivery, shape memory, self-healing, and robotic actuators are summarized. Finally, we address the key challenges that the field will face in the coming years, and future prospects are identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Junji Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science & Technology, No. 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang C, O'Hagan MP, Li Z, Zhang J, Ma X, Tian H, Willner I. Photoresponsive DNA materials and their applications. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:720-760. [PMID: 34985085 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00688f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Photoresponsive nucleic acids attract growing interest as functional constituents in materials science. Integration of photoisomerizable units into DNA strands provides an ideal handle for the reversible reconfiguration of nucleic acid architectures by light irradiation, triggering changes in the chemical and structural properties of the nanostructures that can be exploited in the development of photoresponsive functional devices such as machines, origami structures and ion channels, as well as environmentally adaptable 'smart' materials including nanoparticle aggregates and hydrogels. Moreover, photoresponsive DNA components allow control over the composition of dynamic supramolecular ensembles that mimic native networks. Beyond this, the modification of nucleic acids with photosensitizer functionality enables these biopolymers to act as scaffolds for spatial organization of electron transfer reactions mimicking natural photosynthesis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of these exciting developments in the design of photoresponsive DNA materials, and showcases a range of applications in catalysis, sensing and drug delivery/release. The key challenges facing the development of the field in the coming years are addressed, and exciting emergent research directions are identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
| | - Michael P O'Hagan
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
| | - Ziyuan Li
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Junji Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Ma
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - He Tian
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Frontiers Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang C, O'Hagan MP, Willner B, Willner I. Bioinspired Artificial Photosynthetic Systems. Chemistry 2021; 28:e202103595. [PMID: 34854505 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202103595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mimicking photosynthesis using artificial systems, as a means for solar energy conversion and green fuel generation, is one of the holy grails of modern science. This perspective presents recent advances towards developing artificial photosynthetic systems. In one approach, native photosystems are interfaced with electrodes to yield photobioelectrochemical cells that transform light energy into electrical power. This is exemplified by interfacing photosystem I (PSI) and photosystem II (PSII) as an electrically contacted assembly mimicking the native Z-scheme, and by the assembly of an electrically wired PSI/glucose oxidase biocatalytic conjugate on an electrode support. Illumination of the functionalized electrodes led to light-induced generation of electrical power, or to the generation of photocurrents using glucose as the fuel. The second approach introduces supramolecular photosensitizer nucleic acid/electron acceptor complexes as functional modules for effective photoinduced electron transfer stimulating the subsequent biocatalyzed generation of NADPH or the Pt-nanoparticle-catalyzed evolution of molecular hydrogen. Application of the DNA machineries for scaling-up the photosystems is demonstrated. A third approach presents the integration of artificial photosynthetic modules into dynamic nucleic acid networks undergoing reversible reconfiguration or dissipative transient operation in the presence of auxiliary triggers. Control over photoinduced electron transfer reactions and photosynthetic transformations by means of the dynamic networks is demonstrated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michael P O'Hagan
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Bilha Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Minerva Centre for Bio-Hybrid Complex Systems, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Depmeier H, Hoffmann E, Bornewasser L, Kath‐Schorr S. Strategies for Covalent Labeling of Long RNAs. Chembiochem 2021; 22:2826-2847. [PMID: 34043861 PMCID: PMC8518768 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202100161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of chemical modifications into long RNA molecules at specific positions for visualization, biophysical investigations, diagnostic and therapeutic applications still remains challenging. In this review, we present recent approaches for covalent internal labeling of long RNAs. Topics included are the assembly of large modified RNAs via enzymatic ligation of short synthetic oligonucleotides and synthetic biology approaches preparing site-specifically modified RNAs via in vitro transcription using an expanded genetic alphabet. Moreover, recent approaches to employ deoxyribozymes (DNAzymes) and ribozymes for RNA labeling and RNA methyltransferase based labeling strategies are presented. We discuss the potentials and limits of the individual methods, their applicability for RNAs with several hundred to thousands of nucleotides in length and indicate future directions in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Depmeier
- University of CologneDepartment of ChemistryGreinstr. 450939CologneGermany
| | - Eva Hoffmann
- University of CologneDepartment of ChemistryGreinstr. 450939CologneGermany
| | - Lisa Bornewasser
- University of CologneDepartment of ChemistryGreinstr. 450939CologneGermany
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang Y, Xue P, Cao M, Yu T, Lane ST, Zhao H. Directed Evolution: Methodologies and Applications. Chem Rev 2021; 121:12384-12444. [PMID: 34297541 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Directed evolution aims to expedite the natural evolution process of biological molecules and systems in a test tube through iterative rounds of gene diversifications and library screening/selection. It has become one of the most powerful and widespread tools for engineering improved or novel functions in proteins, metabolic pathways, and even whole genomes. This review describes the commonly used gene diversification strategies, screening/selection methods, and recently developed continuous evolution strategies for directed evolution. Moreover, we highlight some representative applications of directed evolution in engineering nucleic acids, proteins, pathways, genetic circuits, viruses, and whole cells. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future perspectives in directed evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Pu Xue
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Mingfeng Cao
- DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Tianhao Yu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Stephan T Lane
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,DOE Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Streckerová T, Kurfürst J, Curtis EA. Single-round deoxyribozyme discovery. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:6971-6981. [PMID: 34133739 PMCID: PMC8266665 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial evolution experiments typically use libraries of ∼1015 sequences and require multiple rounds of selection to identify rare variants with a desired activity. Based on the simple structures of some aptamers and nucleic acid enzymes, we hypothesized that functional motifs could be isolated from significantly smaller libraries in a single round of selection followed by high-throughput sequencing. To test this idea, we investigated the catalytic potential of DNA architectures in which twelve or fifteen randomized positions were embedded in a scaffold present in all library members. After incubating in either the presence or absence of lead (which promotes the nonenzymatic cleavage of RNA), library members that cleaved themselves at an RNA linkage were purified by PAGE and characterized by high-throughput sequencing. These selections yielded deoxyribozymes with activities 8- to 30-fold lower than those previously isolated under similar conditions from libraries containing 1014 different sequences, indicating that the disadvantage of using a less diverse pool can be surprisingly small. It was also possible to elucidate the sequence requirements and secondary structures of deoxyribozymes without performing additional experiments. Due to its relative simplicity, we anticipate that this approach will accelerate the discovery of new catalytic DNA and RNA motifs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Streckerová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 160 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Kurfürst
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 160 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Informatics and Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Edward A Curtis
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 160 00, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Martínez-Giménez JA, Tabares-Seisdedos R. Possible Ancestral Functions of the Genetic and RNA Operational Precodes and the Origin of the Genetic System. ORIGINS LIFE EVOL B 2021; 51:167-183. [PMID: 34097191 DOI: 10.1007/s11084-021-09610-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The origin of genetic systems is the central problem in the study of the origin of life for which various explanatory hypotheses have been presented. One model suggests that both ancestral transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) molecules and primitive ribosomes were originally involved in RNA replication (Campbell 1991). According to this model the early tRNA molecules catalyzed their own self-loading with a trinucleotide complementary to their anticodon triplet, while the primordial ribosome (protoribosome) catalyzed the transfer of these terminal trinucleotides from one tRNA to another tRNA harboring the growing RNA polymer at the 3´-end.Here we present the notion that the anticodon-codon-like pairs presumably located in the acceptor stem of primordial tRNAs (Rodin et al. 1996) (thus being and remaining, after the code and translation origins, the major contributor to the RNA operational code (Schimmel et al. 1993)) might have originally been used for RNA replication rather than translation; these anticodon and acceptor stem triplets would have been involved in accurately loading the 3'-end of tRNAs with a trinucleotide complementary to their anticodon triplet, thus allowing the accurate repair of tRNAs for their use by the protoribosome during RNA replication.We propose that tRNAs could have catalyzed their own trinucleotide self-loading by forming catalytic tRNA dimers which would have had polymerase activity. Therefore, the loading mechanism and its evolution may have been a basic step in the emergence of new genetic mechanisms such as genetic translation. The evolutionary implications of this proposed loading mechanism are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafael Tabares-Seisdedos
- Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina de Valencia, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibañez 17, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cardoso AR, Frasco MF, Serrano V, Fortunato E, Sales MGF. Molecular Imprinting on Nanozymes for Sensing Applications. BIOSENSORS 2021; 11:152. [PMID: 34067985 PMCID: PMC8152260 DOI: 10.3390/bios11050152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As part of the biomimetic enzyme field, nanomaterial-based artificial enzymes, or nanozymes, have been recognized as highly stable and low-cost alternatives to their natural counterparts. The discovery of enzyme-like activities in nanomaterials triggered a broad range of designs with various composition, size, and shape. An overview of the properties of nanozymes is given, including some examples of enzyme mimics for multiple biosensing approaches. The limitations of nanozymes regarding lack of selectivity and low catalytic efficiency may be surpassed by their easy surface modification, and it is possible to tune specific properties. From this perspective, molecularly imprinted polymers have been successfully combined with nanozymes as biomimetic receptors conferring selectivity and improving catalytic performance. Compelling works on constructing imprinted polymer layers on nanozymes to achieve enhanced catalytic efficiency and selective recognition, requisites for broad implementation in biosensing devices, are reviewed. Multimodal biomimetic enzyme-like biosensing platforms can offer additional advantages concerning responsiveness to different microenvironments and external stimuli. Ultimately, progress in biomimetic imprinted nanozymes may open new horizons in a wide range of biosensing applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana R. Cardoso
- BioMark@UC, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.R.C.); (M.F.F.); (V.S.)
- BioMark@ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- i3N/CENIMAT, Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa and CEMOP/UNINOVA, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Manuela F. Frasco
- BioMark@UC, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.R.C.); (M.F.F.); (V.S.)
- BioMark@ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Verónica Serrano
- BioMark@UC, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.R.C.); (M.F.F.); (V.S.)
- BioMark@ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Elvira Fortunato
- i3N/CENIMAT, Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa and CEMOP/UNINOVA, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Maria Goreti Ferreira Sales
- BioMark@UC, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.R.C.); (M.F.F.); (V.S.)
- BioMark@ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hao J, Miao W, Lu S, Cheng Y, Jia G, Li C. Controllable stereoinversion in DNA-catalyzed olefin cyclopropanation via cofactor modification. Chem Sci 2021; 12:7918-7923. [PMID: 34168845 PMCID: PMC8188488 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc00755f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The assembly of DNA with metal-complex cofactors can form promising biocatalysts for asymmetric reactions, although catalytic performance is typically limited by low enantioselectivities and stereo-control remains a challenge. Here, we engineer G-quadruplex-based DNA biocatalysts for an asymmetric cyclopropanation reaction, achieving enantiomeric excess (eetrans) values of up to +91% with controllable stereoinversion, where the enantioselectivity switches to -72% eetrans through modification of the Fe-porphyrin cofactor. Complementary circular dichroism, nuclear magnetic resonance, and fluorescence titration experiments show that the porphyrin ligand of the cofactor participates in the regulation of the catalytic enantioselectivity via a synergetic effect with DNA residues at the active site. These findings underline the important role of cofactor modification in DNA catalysis and thus pave the way for the rational engineering of DNA-based biocatalysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingya Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhongshan Road 457 Dalian 116023 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 101408 China
| | - Wenhui Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhongshan Road 457 Dalian 116023 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 101408 China
| | - Shengmei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhongshan Road 457 Dalian 116023 China
| | - Yu Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhongshan Road 457 Dalian 116023 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 101408 China
| | - Guoqing Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhongshan Road 457 Dalian 116023 China
| | - Can Li
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhongshan Road 457 Dalian 116023 China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ameta S, Matsubara YJ, Chakraborty N, Krishna S, Thutupalli S. Self-Reproduction and Darwinian Evolution in Autocatalytic Chemical Reaction Systems. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:308. [PMID: 33916135 PMCID: PMC8066523 DOI: 10.3390/life11040308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the emergence of life from (primitive) abiotic components has arguably been one of the deepest and yet one of the most elusive scientific questions. Notwithstanding the lack of a clear definition for a living system, it is widely argued that heredity (involving self-reproduction) along with compartmentalization and metabolism are key features that contrast living systems from their non-living counterparts. A minimal living system may be viewed as "a self-sustaining chemical system capable of Darwinian evolution". It has been proposed that autocatalytic sets of chemical reactions (ACSs) could serve as a mechanism to establish chemical compositional identity, heritable self-reproduction, and evolution in a minimal chemical system. Following years of theoretical work, autocatalytic chemical systems have been constructed experimentally using a wide variety of substrates, and most studies, thus far, have focused on the demonstration of chemical self-reproduction under specific conditions. While several recent experimental studies have raised the possibility of carrying out some aspects of experimental evolution using autocatalytic reaction networks, there remain many open challenges. In this review, we start by evaluating theoretical studies of ACSs specifically with a view to establish the conditions required for such chemical systems to exhibit self-reproduction and Darwinian evolution. Then, we follow with an extensive overview of experimental ACS systems and use the theoretically established conditions to critically evaluate these empirical systems for their potential to exhibit Darwinian evolution. We identify various technical and conceptual challenges limiting experimental progress and, finally, conclude with some remarks about open questions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Ameta
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Yoshiya J. Matsubara
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Nayan Chakraborty
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Sandeep Krishna
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Shashi Thutupalli
- Simons Centre for the Study of Living Machines, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560065, India
- International Centre for Theoretical Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore 560089, India
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Xu W, He W, Du Z, Zhu L, Huang K, Lu Y, Luo Y. Functional Nucleic Acid Nanomaterials: Development, Properties, and Applications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:6890-6918. [PMID: 31729826 PMCID: PMC9205421 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201909927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Functional nucleic acid (FNA) nanotechnology is an interdisciplinary field between nucleic acid biochemistry and nanotechnology that focuses on the study of interactions between FNAs and nanomaterials and explores the particular advantages and applications of FNA nanomaterials. With the goal of building the next-generation biomaterials that combine the advantages of FNAs and nanomaterials, the interactions between FNAs and nanomaterials as well as FNA self-assembly technologies have established themselves as hot research areas, where the target recognition, response, and self-assembly ability, combined with the plasmon properties, stability, stimuli-response, and delivery potential of various nanomaterials can give rise to a variety of novel fascinating applications. As research on the structural and functional group features of FNAs and nanomaterials rapidly develops, many laboratories have reported numerous methods to construct FNA nanomaterials. In this Review, we first introduce some widely used FNAs and nanomaterials along with their classification, structure, and application features. Then we discuss the most successful methods employing FNAs and nanomaterials as elements for creating advanced FNA nanomaterials. Finally, we review the extensive applications of FNA nanomaterials in bioimaging, biosensing, biomedicine, and other important fields, with their own advantages and drawbacks, and provide our perspective about the issues and developing trends in FNA nanotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083 (China)
| | - Wanchong He
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083 (China)
| | - Zaihui Du
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083 (China)
| | - Liye Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083 (China)
| | - Kunlun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083 (China)
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana, Illinois 61801 (USA)
| | - Yunbo Luo
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083 (China)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Secondary Structure Libraries for Artificial Evolution Experiments. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26061671. [PMID: 33802780 PMCID: PMC8002575 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26061671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Methods of artificial evolution such as SELEX and in vitro selection have made it possible to isolate RNA and DNA motifs with a wide range of functions from large random sequence libraries. Once the primary sequence of a functional motif is known, the sequence space around it can be comprehensively explored using a combination of random mutagenesis and selection. However, methods to explore the sequence space of a secondary structure are not as well characterized. Here we address this question by describing a method to construct libraries in a single synthesis which are enriched for sequences with the potential to form a specific secondary structure, such as that of an aptamer, ribozyme, or deoxyribozyme. Although interactions such as base pairs cannot be encoded in a library using conventional DNA synthesizers, it is possible to modulate the probability that two positions will have the potential to pair by biasing the nucleotide composition at these positions. Here we show how to maximize this probability for each of the possible ways to encode a pair (in this study defined as A-U or U-A or C-G or G-C or G.U or U.G). We then use these optimized coding schemes to calculate the number of different variants of model stems and secondary structures expected to occur in a library for a series of structures in which the number of pairs and the extent of conservation of unpaired positions is systematically varied. Our calculations reveal a tradeoff between maximizing the probability of forming a pair and maximizing the number of possible variants of a desired secondary structure that can occur in the library. They also indicate that the optimal coding strategy for a library depends on the complexity of the motif being characterized. Because this approach provides a simple way to generate libraries enriched for sequences with the potential to form a specific secondary structure, we anticipate that it should be useful for the optimization and structural characterization of functional nucleic acid motifs.
Collapse
|
23
|
Huang PJJ, Liu J. In vitro selection and application of lanthanide-dependent DNAzymes. Methods Enzymol 2021; 651:373-396. [PMID: 33888210 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2021.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Highly sensitive and selective detection of lanthanide ions is a major analytical challenge. In recent years, the use of DNA for this purpose has been pursued. For such highly charged cations, it is difficult to select their aptamers due to strong nonspecific binding. On the other hand, the use of catalytic DNA or DNAzymes has an advantage to overcome this problem, especially DNAzymes with RNA-cleaving activity. In this chapter, a few such DNAzymes are introduced and methods for in vitro selection of lanthanide-dependent RNA-cleaving DNAzymes are described in detail, including the selection protocols, the DNA sequences used, the characterization of selected DNAzymes and their conversion into biosensors. All of the experiments use only fluorophore-labeled DNA, and radioisotope labeling is completely avoided. The resulting DNAzymes can distinguish lanthanides from non-lanthanide metals, tell the difference between light and heavy lanthanides, and can be used together to discriminate individual lanthanides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Po-Jung Jimmy Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Saran R, Huang Z, Liu J. Phosphorothioate nucleic acids for probing metal binding, biosensing and nanotechnology. Coord Chem Rev 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2020.213624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
25
|
Yao T, Przybyla JJ, Yeh P, Woodard AM, Nilsson HJ, Brandsen BM, Silverman SK. DNAzymes for amine and peptide lysine acylation. Org Biomol Chem 2021; 19:171-181. [PMID: 33150349 PMCID: PMC7790989 DOI: 10.1039/d0ob02015j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
DNAzymes were previously identified by in vitro selection for a variety of chemical reactions, including several biologically relevant peptide modifications. However, finding DNAzymes for peptide lysine acylation is a substantial challenge. By using suitably reactive aryl ester acyl donors as the electrophiles, here we used in vitro selection to identify DNAzymes that acylate amines, including lysine side chains of DNA-anchored peptides. Some of the DNAzymes can transfer a small glutaryl group to an amino group. These results expand the scope of DNAzyme catalysis and suggest the future broader applicability of DNAzymes for sequence-selective lysine acylation of peptide and protein substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianjiong Yao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
In this review, DNA and nanomaterial based catalysts for porphyrin metalation reactions are summarized, including the selection of DNAzymes, choice of nanomaterials, their catalytic mechanisms, and applications of the reactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hualin Yang
- College of Life Science
- Yangtze University
- Jingzhou
- China
- Department of Chemistry
| | - Yu Zhou
- College of Life Science
- Yangtze University
- Jingzhou
- China
- College of Animal Science
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of Chemistry
- Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology
- University of Waterloo
- Waterloo
- Canada
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Moon WJ, Yang Y, Liu J. Zn 2+ -Dependent DNAzymes: From Solution Chemistry to Analytical, Materials and Therapeutic Applications. Chembiochem 2020; 22:779-789. [PMID: 33007113 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Since 1994, deoxyribozymes or DNAzymes have been in vitro selected to catalyze various types of reactions. Metal ions play a critical role in DNAzyme catalysis, and Zn2+ is a very important one among them. Zn2+ has good biocompatibility and can be used for intracellular applications. Chemically, Zn2+ is a Lewis acid and it can bind to both the phosphate backbone and the nucleobases of DNA. Zn2+ undergoes hydrolysis even at neutral pH, and the partially hydrolyzed polynuclear complexes can affect the interactions with DNA. These features have made Zn2+ a unique cofactor for DNAzyme reactions. This review summarizes Zn2+ -dependent DNAzymes with an emphasis on RNA-/DNA-cleaving reactions. A key feature is the sharp Zn2+ concentration and pH-dependent activity for many of the DNAzymes. The applications of these DNAzymes as biosensors for Zn2+ , as therapeutic agents to cleave intracellular RNA, and as chemical biology tools to manipulate DNA are discussed. Future studies can focus on the selection of new DNAzymes with improved performance and detailed biochemical characterizations to understand the role of Zn2+ , which can facilitate practical applications of Zn2+ -dependent DNAzymes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Woohyun J Moon
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Yongjie Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada.,Department of Food and Biological Science, College of Agricultural, Yanbian University, Yanbian Chaoxianzuzizhizhou, Yanji, 133002, P. R. China
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada.,Centre for Eye and Vision Research, 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Huang PJ, Liu J. In vitro Selection of Chemically Modified DNAzymes. ChemistryOpen 2020; 9:1046-1059. [PMID: 33101831 PMCID: PMC7570446 DOI: 10.1002/open.202000134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
DNAzymes are in vitro selected DNA oligonucleotides with catalytic activities. RNA cleavage is one of the most extensively studied DNAzyme reactions. To expand the chemical functionality of DNA, various chemical modifications have been made during and after selection. In this review, we summarize examples of RNA-cleaving DNAzymes and focus on those modifications introduced during in vitro selection. By incorporating various modified nucleotides via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or primer extension, a few DNAzymes were obtained that can be specifically activated by metal ions such as Zn2+ and Hg2+. In addition, some modifications were introduced to mimic RNase A that can cleave RNA substrates in the absence of divalent metal ions. In addition, single modifications at the fixed regions of DNA libraries, especially at the cleavage junctions, have been tested, and examples of DNAzymes with phosphorothioate and histidine-glycine modified tertiary amine were successfully obtained specific for Cu2+, Cd2+, Zn2+, and Ni2+. Labeling fluorophore/quencher pair right next to the cleavage junction was also used to obtain signaling DNAzymes for detecting various metal ions and cells. Furthermore, we reviewed work on the cleavage of 2'-5' linked RNA and L-RNA substrates. Finally, applications of these modified DNAzymes as biosensors, RNases, and biochemical probes are briefly described with a few future research opportunities outlined at the end.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Po‐Jung Jimmy Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntario, N2L 3G1Canada
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntario, N2L 3G1Canada
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Micura R, Höbartner C. Fundamental studies of functional nucleic acids: aptamers, riboswitches, ribozymes and DNAzymes. Chem Soc Rev 2020; 49:7331-7353. [PMID: 32944725 DOI: 10.1039/d0cs00617c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This review aims at juxtaposing common versus distinct structural and functional strategies that are applied by aptamers, riboswitches, and ribozymes/DNAzymes. Focusing on recently discovered systems, we begin our analysis with small-molecule binding aptamers, with emphasis on in vitro-selected fluorogenic RNA aptamers and their different modes of ligand binding and fluorescence activation. Fundamental insights are much needed to advance RNA imaging probes for detection of exo- and endogenous RNA and for RNA process tracking. Secondly, we discuss the latest gene expression-regulating mRNA riboswitches that respond to the alarmone ppGpp, to PRPP, to NAD+, to adenosine and cytidine diphosphates, and to precursors of thiamine biosynthesis (HMP-PP), and we outline new subclasses of SAM and tetrahydrofolate-binding RNA regulators. Many riboswitches bind protein enzyme cofactors that, in principle, can catalyse a chemical reaction. For RNA, however, only one system (glmS ribozyme) has been identified in Nature thus far that utilizes a small molecule - glucosamine-6-phosphate - to participate directly in reaction catalysis (phosphodiester cleavage). We wonder why that is the case and what is to be done to reveal such likely existing cellular activities that could be more diverse than currently imagined. Thirdly, this brings us to the four latest small nucleolytic ribozymes termed twister, twister-sister, pistol, and hatchet as well as to in vitro selected DNA and RNA enzymes that promote new chemistry, mainly by exploiting their ability for RNA labelling and nucleoside modification recognition. Enormous progress in understanding the strategies of nucleic acids catalysts has been made by providing thorough structural fundaments (e.g. first structure of a DNAzyme, structures of ribozyme transition state mimics) in combination with functional assays and atomic mutagenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Micura
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck CMBI, Leopold-Franzens University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Yue L, Wang S, Willner I. Functional Constitutional Dynamic Networks Revealing Evolutionary Reproduction/Variation/Selection Principles. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:14437-14442. [PMID: 32787246 PMCID: PMC7498142 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c05669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Within the broad research efforts to engineer chemical pathways to yield high-throughput evolutionary synthesis of genes and their screening for dictated functionalities, we introduce the evolution of nucleic-acid-based constitutional dynamic networks (CDNs) that follow reproduction/variation/selection principles. These fundamental principles are demonstrated by assembling a library of nucleic-acid strands and hairpins as functional modules for evolving networks. Primary T1-initiated selection of components from the library assembles a parent CDN X, where the evolved constituents exhibit catalytic properties to cleave the hairpins in the library. Cleavage of the hairpins yields fragments, which reproduces T1 to replicate CDN X, whereas the other fragments T2 and T3 select other components to evolve two other CDNs, Y and Z (variation). By applying appropriate counter triggers, we demonstrate the guided selection of networks from the evolved CDNs. By integrating additional hairpin substrates into the system, CDN-dictated emergent catalytic transformations are accomplished. The study provides pathways to construct evolutionary dynamic networks revealing enhanced gated and cascaded functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yue
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center
for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The
Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Shan Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center
for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The
Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center
for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The
Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Xu W, He W, Du Z, Zhu L, Huang K, Lu Y, Luo Y. Funktionelle Nukleinsäure‐Nanomaterialien: Entwicklung, Eigenschaften und Anwendungen. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201909927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering China Agricultural University Beijing 100083 China
| | - Wanchong He
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering China Agricultural University Beijing 100083 China
| | - Zaihui Du
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering China Agricultural University Beijing 100083 China
| | - Liye Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering China Agricultural University Beijing 100083 China
| | - Kunlun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering China Agricultural University Beijing 100083 China
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Chemistry University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana Illinois 61801 USA
| | - Yunbo Luo
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality Department of Nutrition and Health, and College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering China Agricultural University Beijing 100083 China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
DNA polymerases play a central role in biology by transferring genetic information from one generation to the next during cell division. Harnessing the power of these enzymes in the laboratory has fueled an increase in biomedical applications that involve the synthesis, amplification, and sequencing of DNA. However, the high substrate specificity exhibited by most naturally occurring DNA polymerases often precludes their use in practical applications that require modified substrates. Moving beyond natural genetic polymers requires sophisticated enzyme-engineering technologies that can be used to direct the evolution of engineered polymerases that function with tailor-made activities. Such efforts are expected to uniquely drive emerging applications in synthetic biology by enabling the synthesis, replication, and evolution of synthetic genetic polymers with new physicochemical properties.
Collapse
|
33
|
Lilienthal S, Fischer A, Liao WC, Cazelles R, Willner I. Single and Bilayer Polyacrylamide Hydrogel-Based Microcapsules for the Triggered Release of Loads, Logic Gate Operations, and Intercommunication between Microcapsules. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:31124-31136. [PMID: 32551490 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c06711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A method to assemble loaded stimuli-responsive DNA-polyacrylamide hydrogel-stabilized microcapsules is presented. The method involves coating substrate-loaded CaCO3 microparticles, functionalized with nucleic acid promoter units, and cross-linking DNA-modified polyacrylamide chains on the microcapsules, using the hybridization chain reaction (HCR) to yield the DNA-cross-linked hydrogel coating. Dissolution of the CaCO3 particles generated the substrate-loaded hydrogel-protected microcapsules. The microcapsule-hydrogel shells include engineered stimuli-responsive oligonucleotide cross-linkers that control the stiffness of the hydrogel shells, allowing the triggered release of the loads. One approach includes the incorporation of cofactor-dependent DNAzyme units into the cross-linked hydrogel layers (cofactor = Mg2+ ions, Zn2+ ions, or histidine) as stimuli-responsive units. Cleavage of the cross-linking DNAzyme substrates by the respective cofactors yields hydrogel coatings with a reduced stiffness and higher porosity that allow the release of the loads. A further approach involved the application of the HCR process to assemble the bilayer hydrogel microcapsules that are unlocked by two cooperative triggers. Bilayer microcapsules consisting of a K+ ions-stabilized G-quadruplex/18-crown-6-ether (CE) responsive layer and a Mg2+ ion DNAzyme-responsive layers are presented. Unlocking and locking of the G-quadruplex cross-linked layer by 18-crown-6-ether and K+ ions, respectively, in the presence of Mg2+ ions allow the switchable controlled release of the load. In addition, the intercommunication of two kinds of stimuli-responsive bilayer hydrogel microcapsules carrying two different loads (tetramethylrhodamine-dextran, TMR-D, and CdSe/ZnS quantum dots) is demonstrated. The intercommunication process involves the stimuli-triggered generation of "information transfer" strands from one microcapsule to another that activate the release of the loads.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sivan Lilienthal
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Amit Fischer
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Wei-Ching Liao
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Remi Cazelles
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Rosette-shaped graphitic carbon nitride acts as a peroxidase mimic in a wide pH range for fluorescence-based determination of glucose with glucose oxidase. Mikrochim Acta 2020; 187:286. [PMID: 32328802 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-020-04249-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Rosette-shaped graphitic carbon nitride (rosette-GCN) is described as a promising alternative to natural peroxidase for its application to fluorescence-based glucose assays. Rosette-GCN was synthesized via a rapid reaction between melamine and cyanuric acid for 10 min at 35 °C, followed by thermal calcination for 4 h. Importantly, rosette-GCN possesses a peroxidase-like activity, producing intense fluorescence from the oxidation of Amplex UltraRed in the presence of H2O2 over a broad pH-range of, including neutral pH; the peroxidase activity of rosette-GCN was ~ 10-fold higher than that of conventional bulk-GCN. This enhancement of peroxidase activity is presumed to occur because rosette-GCN has a significantly larger surface area and higher porosity while preserving its unique graphitic structure. Based on the high peroxidase activity of rosette-GCN along with the catalytic action of glucose oxidase (GOx), glucose was reliably determined down to 1.2 μM with a dynamic linear concentration range of 5.0 to 275.0 μM under neutral pH conditions. Practical utility of this strategy was also successfully demonstrated by determining the glucose levels in serum samples. This work highlights the advantages of GCNs synthesized via rapid methods but with unique structures for the preparation of enzyme-mimicking catalysts, thus extending their applications to the diagnostics field and other biotechnological fields. Graphical abstract.
Collapse
|
35
|
Samanta D, Ebrahimi SB, Mirkin CA. Nucleic-Acid Structures as Intracellular Probes for Live Cells. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e1901743. [PMID: 31271253 PMCID: PMC6942251 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201901743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The chemical composition of cells at the molecular level determines their growth, differentiation, structure, and function. Probing this composition is powerful because it provides invaluable insight into chemical processes inside cells and in certain cases allows disease diagnosis based on molecular profiles. However, many techniques analyze fixed cells or lysates of bulk populations, in which information about dynamics and cellular heterogeneity is lost. Recently, nucleic-acid-based probes have emerged as a promising platform for the detection of a wide variety of intracellular analytes in live cells with single-cell resolution. Recent advances in this field are described and common strategies for probe design, types of targets that can be identified, current limitations, and future directions are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devleena Samanta
- Department of Chemistry and International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Sasha B Ebrahimi
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Chad A Mirkin
- Department of Chemistry and International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Manochehry S, Gu J, McConnell EM, Salena BJ, Li Y. In Vitro Selection of New DNA Aptamers for Human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor 165. Chembiochem 2020; 21:2029-2036. [PMID: 32180322 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Two DNA aptamers that bind the heparin-binding domain (HBD) of the human vascular endothelial growth factor 165 (VEGF-165) have been previously reported. Although VEGF-165 is a homodimeric protein and the two aptamers have different sequences and secondary structures, the aptamers appear to occupy the same binding site and cannot form a 2 : 1 aptamer/protein complex, thus making them unsuitable for creating a higher-affinity dimeric DNA aptamer. This has motivated us to conduct a new in vitro selection experiment to search for new VEGF-165-binding DNA aptamers with different properties. We undertook a multistream selection strategy in which the concentration of VEGF-165 was varied significantly. We carried out 11 rounds of selection, and next-generation sequencing was conducted for every round in each stream. From comprehensive sequence analysis, we identified four classes of DNA aptamers, of which two were reported before, but two are new DNA aptamers. One of the new aptamers exhibits a unique property that has never been observed before: it is capable of forming the 2 : 1 aptamer/protein complex with VEGF-165. This work has expanded the repertoire of VEGF-165-binding DNA aptamers and creates a possibility to engineer a higher affinity homodimeric aptamer for VEGF-165.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sepehr Manochehry
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Jimmy Gu
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Erin M McConnell
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Bruno J Salena
- Department of Medicine DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4 K1, Canada
| | - Yingfu Li
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4 K1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Luo G, Biniuri Y, Chen W, Wang J, Neumann E, Marjault H, Nechushtai R, Winkler M, Happe T, Willner I. Modelling Photosynthesis with Zn
II
‐Protoporphyrin All‐DNA G‐Quadruplex/Aptamer Scaffolds. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202002915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Guo‐Feng Luo
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Yonatan Biniuri
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Wei‐Hai Chen
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Jianbang Wang
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Ehud Neumann
- Institute of Life Science The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | | | - Rachel Nechushtai
- Institute of Life Science The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| | - Martin Winkler
- Department of Biochemistry of Plants Ruhr-University Bochum Germany
| | - Thomas Happe
- Department of Biochemistry of Plants Ruhr-University Bochum Germany
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Jerusalem 91904 Israel
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Luo GF, Biniuri Y, Chen WH, Wang J, Neumann E, Marjault HB, Nechushtai R, Winkler M, Happe T, Willner I. Modelling Photosynthesis with Zn II -Protoporphyrin All-DNA G-Quadruplex/Aptamer Scaffolds. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:9163-9170. [PMID: 32125762 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202002915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
All-DNA scaffolds act as templates for the organization of photosystem I model systems. A series of DNA templates composed of ZnII -protoporphyrin IX (ZnII PPIX)-functionalized G-quadruplex conjugated to the 3'- or 5'-end of the tyrosinamide (TA) aptamer and ZnII PPIX/G-quadruplex linked to the 3'- and 5'-ends of the TA aptamer through a four-thymidine bridge. Effective photoinduced electron transfer (ET) from ZnII PPIX/G-quadruplex to bipyridinium-functionalized tyrosinamide, TA-MV2+ , bound to the TA aptamer units is demonstrated. The effectiveness of the primary ET quenching of ZnII PPIX/G-quadruplex by TA-MV2+ controls the efficiency of the generation of TA-MV+. . The photosystem-controlled formation of TA-MV+. by the different photosystems dictates the secondary activation of the ET cascade corresponding to the ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase (FNR)-catalysed reduction of NADP+ to NADPH by TA-MV+. , and the sequestered alcohol dehydrogenase catalysed reduction of acetophenone to 1-phenylethanol by NADPH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Feng Luo
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| | - Yonatan Biniuri
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| | - Wei-Hai Chen
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| | - Jianbang Wang
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| | - Ehud Neumann
- Institute of Life Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| | | | - Rachel Nechushtai
- Institute of Life Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| | - Martin Winkler
- Department of Biochemistry of Plants, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Happe
- Department of Biochemistry of Plants, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhang P, Yue L, Vázquez-González M, Zhou Z, Chen WH, Sohn YS, Nechushtai R, Willner I. MicroRNA-Guided Selective Release of Loads from Micro-/Nanocarriers Using Auxiliary Constitutional Dynamic Networks. ACS NANO 2020; 14:1482-1491. [PMID: 31927975 PMCID: PMC7467758 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b06047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Two different drug micro-carriers consisting of doxorubicin-dextran (DOX-D)- and camptothecin-modified carboxymethyl cellulose (CPT-CMC)-loaded nucleic acid-stabilized microcapsules, MC-1 and MC-2, or two different nanocarriers consisting of nucleic-acid-locked doxorubicin (DOX)- and camptothecin (CPT)-loaded metal-organic framework nanoparticles, NMOF-1 and NMOF-2, are coupled to auxiliary constitutional dynamic networks, CDNs, for the triggered release of the drugs. CDN "S" composed of four constituents AA'', AB', BA', and BB', and two hairpin structures, H1 and H2, leads to the CDN "S"-guided unlocking of the MC-1/MC-2 carriers and the release of DOX-D and CPT-CMC or of the NMOF-1 and NMOF-2 carriers that release DOX and CPT, respectively. The unlocking processes are activated by the cleavage of H1 and H2 by BB' and BA', respectively, to yield fragmented strands that unlock the gating units of the microcapsules/NMOFs carriers. In the presence of miRNA-155 or miRNA-124, dictated orthogonal reconfiguration of CDN "S" into CDN "X" or "Y" proceeds. The miRNA-155 stimulates the reconfiguration of CDN "S" to CDN "X", where AA' and BB' are upregulated, and AB' and BA' are downregulated, leading to the enhanced release of DOX-D or DOX from the microcapsule/NMOFs carriers, and to the concomitant inhibition of the release of CPT-CMC or CPT from the respective carriers. Similarly, the miRNA-124-triggered reconfiguration of CDN "S" to CDN "Y" results in the BA'-guided cleavage of H2 and the preferred release of CPT-CMC or CPT from the respective carriers. The miRNA-triggered CDN-driven unlocking of the carriers stimulates the amplified and selective release of the drugs from the microcapsules/NMOFs carriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pu Zhang
- Institute
of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Liang Yue
- Institute
of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Margarita Vázquez-González
- Institute
of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Zhixin Zhou
- Institute
of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Wei-Hai Chen
- Institute
of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Yang Sung Sohn
- Institute
of Life Science, The Hebrew University of
Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Rachel Nechushtai
- Institute
of Life Science, The Hebrew University of
Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute
of Chemistry, Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Genetic variation is a necessity of all biological systems. Viruses use all known mechanisms of variation; mutation, several forms of recombination, and segment reassortment in the case of viruses with a segmented genome. These processes are intimately connected with the replicative machineries of viruses, as well as with fundamental physical-chemical properties of nucleotides when acting as template or substrate residues. Recombination has been viewed as a means to rescue viable genomes from unfit parents or to produce large modifications for the exploration of phenotypic novelty. All types of genetic variation can act conjointly as blind processes to provide the raw materials for adaptation to the changing environments in which viruses must replicate. A distinction is made between mechanistically unavoidable and evolutionarily relevant mutation and recombination.
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Viruses are diverse parasites of cells and extremely abundant. They might have arisen during an early phase of the evolution of life on Earth dominated by ribonucleic acid or RNA-like macromolecules, or when a cellular world was already well established. The theories of the origin of life on Earth shed light on the possible origin of primitive viruses or virus-like genetic elements in our biosphere. Some features of present-day viruses, notably error-prone replication, might be a consequence of the selective forces that mediated their ancestral origin. Two views on the role of viruses in our biosphere predominate; viruses considered as opportunistic, selfish elements, and viruses considered as active participants in the construction of the cellular world via the lateral transfer of genes. These two models have a bearing on viruses being considered predominantly as disease agents or predominantly as cooperators in the shaping of differentiated cellular organisms.
Collapse
|
42
|
Lin Y, Yang Z, Lake RJ, Zheng C, Lu Y. Enzyme‐Mediated Endogenous and Bioorthogonal Control of a DNAzyme Fluorescent Sensor for Imaging Metal Ions in Living Cells. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201910343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Lin
- Department of ChemistryDepartment of BiochemistryUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana Illinois 61801 USA
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & TechnologyMinistry of EducationCollege of ChemistrySichuan University Chengdu Sichuan 610064 China
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Department of ChemistryDepartment of BiochemistryUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana Illinois 61801 USA
| | - Ryan J. Lake
- Department of ChemistryDepartment of BiochemistryUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana Illinois 61801 USA
| | - Chengbin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & TechnologyMinistry of EducationCollege of ChemistrySichuan University Chengdu Sichuan 610064 China
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of ChemistryDepartment of BiochemistryUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana Illinois 61801 USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Lin Y, Yang Z, Lake RJ, Zheng C, Lu Y. Enzyme-Mediated Endogenous and Bioorthogonal Control of a DNAzyme Fluorescent Sensor for Imaging Metal Ions in Living Cells. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019; 58:17061-17067. [PMID: 31529664 PMCID: PMC7174831 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201910343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Bioorthogonal control of metal-ion sensors for imaging metal ions in living cells is important for understanding the distribution and fluctuation of metal ions. Reported here is the endogenous and bioorthogonal activation of a DNAzyme fluorescent sensor containing an 18-base pair recognition site of a homing endonuclease (I-SceI), which is found by chance only once in 7×1010 bp of genomic sequences, and can thus form a near bioorthogonal pair with I-SceI for DNAzyme activation with minimal effect on living cells. Once I-SceI is expressed inside cells, it cleaves at the recognition site, allowing the DNAzyme to adopt its active conformation. The activated DNAzyme sensor is then able to specifically catalyze cleavage of a substrate strand in the presence of Mg2+ to release the fluorophore-labeled DNA fragment and produce a fluorescent turn-on signal for Mg2+ . Thus I-SceI bioorthogonally activates the 10-23 DNAzyme for imaging of Mg2+ in HeLa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Lin
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ryan J. Lake
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Chengbin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ekesan Ş, York DM. Dynamical ensemble of the active state and transition state mimic for the RNA-cleaving 8-17 DNAzyme in solution. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:10282-10295. [PMID: 31511899 PMCID: PMC6821293 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We perform molecular dynamics simulations, based on recent crystallographic data, on the 8-17 DNAzyme at four states along the reaction pathway to determine the dynamical ensemble for the active state and transition state mimic in solution. A striking finding is the diverse roles played by Na+ and Pb2+ ions in the electrostatically strained active site that impact all four fundamental catalytic strategies, and share commonality with some features recently inferred for naturally occurring hammerhead and pistol ribozymes. The active site Pb2+ ion helps to stabilize in-line nucleophilic attack, provides direct electrostatic transition state stabilization, and facilitates leaving group departure. A conserved guanine residue is positioned to act as the general base, and is assisted by a bridging Na+ ion that tunes the pKa and facilitates in-line fitness. The present work provides insight into how DNA molecules are able to solve the RNA-cleavage problem, and establishes functional relationships between the mechanism of these engineered DNA enzymes with their naturally evolved RNA counterparts. This adds valuable information to our growing body of knowledge on general mechanisms of phosphoryl transfer reactions catalyzed by RNA, proteins and DNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Şölen Ekesan
- Laboratory for Biomolecular Simulation Research, Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Darrin M York
- Laboratory for Biomolecular Simulation Research, Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Moon WJ, Liu J. Replacing Mg2+by Fe2+for RNA‐Cleaving DNAzymes. Chembiochem 2019; 21:401-407. [DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201900344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Woohyun J. Moon
- Department of ChemistryWaterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of Waterloo Waterloo Ontario N2L 3G1 Canada
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of ChemistryWaterloo Institute for NanotechnologyUniversity of Waterloo Waterloo Ontario N2L 3G1 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Yue L, Wang S, Wulf V, Willner I. Stiffness-switchable DNA-based constitutional dynamic network hydrogels for self-healing and matrix-guided controlled chemical processes. Nat Commun 2019; 10:4774. [PMID: 31636256 PMCID: PMC6803638 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12697-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Constitutional dynamic networks (CDNs) attract interest as signal-triggered reconfigurable systems mimicking natural networks. The application of CDNs to control material properties is, however, a major challenge. Here we report on the design of a CDN consisting of four toehold-modified constituents, two of which act as bidentate units for chain-elongating, while the other two form a tetradentate structure acting as a crosslinking unit. Their hybridization yields a hydrogel of medium stiffness controlled by the balance between bidentate and tetradentate units. Stabilization of the tetradentate constituent by an auxiliary effector up-regulates the crosslinking unit, yielding a high-stiffness hydrogel. Conversely, stabilization of one of the bidentate constituents by an orthogonal effector enriches the chain-elongation units leading to a low-stiffness hydrogel. Using appropriate counter effectors, the hydrogels are reversibly switched across low-, medium- and high-stiffness states. The hydrogels are used to develop self-healing and controlled drug-release matrices and functional materials for operating biocatalytic cascades. Dynamic hydrogels with controllable properties are of interest for a range of applications. Here, the authors report on a DNA hydrogel system which can be tailored to have reversible mechanical changes, reversible shape changes, is self-healing and can be used for controlled release applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yue
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91904, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shan Wang
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91904, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Verena Wulf
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91904, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91904, Jerusalem, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hwang K, Mou Q, Lake RJ, Xiong M, Holland B, Lu Y. Metal-Dependent DNAzymes for the Quantitative Detection of Metal Ions in Living Cells: Recent Progress, Current Challenges, and Latest Results on FRET Ratiometric Sensors. Inorg Chem 2019; 58:13696-13708. [PMID: 31364355 PMCID: PMC7176321 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.9b01280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Many different metal ions are involved in various biological functions including metallomics and trafficking, and yet there are currently effective sensors for only a few metal ions, despite the first report of metal sensors for calcium more than 40 years ago. To expand upon the number of metal ions that can be probed in biological systems, we and other laboratories employ the in vitro selection method to obtain metal-specific DNAzymes with high specificity for a metal ion and then convert these DNAzymes into fluorescent sensors for these metal ions using a catalytic beacon approach. In this Forum Article, we summarize recent progress made in developing these DNAzyme sensors to probe metal ions in living cells and in vivo, including several challenges that we were able to overcome for this application, such as DNAzyme delivery, spatiotemporal control, and signal amplification. Furthermore, we have identified a key remaining challenge for the quantitative detection of metal ions in living cells and present a new design and the results of a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based DNAzyme sensor for the ratiometric quantification of Zn2+ in HeLa cells. By converting existing DNAzyme sensors into a ratiometric readout without compromising the fundamental catalytic function of the DNAzymes, this FRET-based ratiometric DNAzyme design can readily be applied to other DNAzyme sensors as a major advance in the field to develop much more quantitative metal-ion probes for biological systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Hwang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Quanbing Mou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Ryan J. Lake
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Mengyi Xiong
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Brandalynn Holland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
He Y, Chen D, Huang PJJ, Zhou Y, Ma L, Xu K, Yang R, Liu J. Misfolding of a DNAzyme for ultrahigh sodium selectivity over potassium. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:10262-10271. [PMID: 30215808 PMCID: PMC6212836 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Herein, the excellent Na+ selectivity of a few RNA-cleaving DNAzymes was exploited, where Na+ can be around 3000-fold more effective than K+ for promoting catalysis. By using a double mutant based on the Ce13d DNAzyme, and by lowering the temperature, increased 2-aminopurine (2AP) fluorescence was observed with addition of both Na+ and K+. The fluorescence increase was similar for these two metals at below 10 mM, after which K+ took a different pathway. Since 2AP probes its local base stacking environment, K+ can be considered to induce misfolding. Binding of both Na+ and K+ was specific, since single base mutations could fully inhibit 2AP fluorescence for both metals. The binding thermodynamics was measured by temperature-dependent experiments revealing enthalpy-driven binding for both metals and less coordination sites compared to G-quadruplex DNA. Cleavage activity assays indicated a moderate cleavage activity with 10 mM K+, while further increase of K+ inhibited the activity, also supporting its misfolding of the DNAzyme. For comparison, a G-quadruplex DNA was also studied using the same system, where Na+ and K+ led to the same final state with only around 8-fold difference in Kd. This study provides interesting insights into strategies for discriminating Na+ and K+.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanping He
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, University of Tianjin, Tianjin 300072, China.,Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Da Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, University of Tianjin, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Po-Jung Jimmy Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Yibo Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, P. R. China
| | - Lingzi Ma
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Kexin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, University of Tianjin, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Ronghua Yang
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, P. R. China
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Edwardson TGW, Hilvert D. Virus-Inspired Function in Engineered Protein Cages. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:9432-9443. [PMID: 31117660 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b03705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The structural and functional diversity of proteins combined with their genetic programmability has made them indispensable modern materials. Well-defined, hollow protein capsules have proven to be particularly useful due to their ability to compartmentalize macromolecules and chemical processes. To this end, viral capsids are common scaffolds and have been successfully repurposed to produce a suite of practical protein-based nanotechnologies. Recently, the recapitulation of viromimetic function in protein cages of nonviral origin has emerged as a strategy to both complement physical studies of natural viruses and produce useful scaffolds for diverse applications. In this perspective, we review recent progress toward generation of virus-like behavior in nonviral protein cages through rational engineering and directed evolution. These artificial systems can aid our understanding of the emergence of viruses from existing cellular components, as well as provide alternative approaches to tackle current problems, and open up new opportunities, in medicine and biotechnology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Donald Hilvert
- Laboratory of Organic Chemistry , ETH Zurich , 8093 Zurich , Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhang Z, Liu J. Molecular Imprinting with Functional DNA. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2019; 15:e1805246. [PMID: 30761744 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201805246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Molecular imprinting refers to templated polymerization with rationally designed monomers, and this is a general method to prepare stable and cost-effective ligands. This attractive concept however suffers from low affinity, low specificity, and limited signaling mechanisms for binding. Acrydite-modified DNA oligonucleotides can be readily copolymerized into acrylic polymers. With molecular recognition and catalytic functions, such functional DNAs are recently shown to enhance the performance of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) in a few ways. First, DNA aptamers are used as macromonomers to enhance binding affinity and specificity of MIPs. Second, DNA can help produce optical signals to follow binding events. Third, imprinting can also improve the performance of catalytic DNA by enhancing its activity and specificity toward the template substrate. Finally, MIP is shown to help aptamer selection. Bulk imprinting, nanoparticle imprinting, and surface imprinting are all demonstrated with DNA. Since both DNA and synthetic polymers are cost effective and stable, their hybrid materials still possess such properties while enhancing the function of each component. This review covers recent developments on the abovementioned aspects of DNA-containing MIPs, a field just emerged in the last five years, and future research directions are discussed toward the end.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zijie Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Juewen Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|