1
|
Lee B, Gries K, Valimukhametova AR, McKinney RL, Gonzalez-Rodriguez R, Topkiran UC, Coffer J, Akkaraju GR, Naumov AV. In Vitro Prostate Cancer Treatment via CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing Facilitated by Polyethyleneimine-Derived Graphene Quantum Dots. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2023; 33:2305506. [PMID: 38144446 PMCID: PMC10746168 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202305506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 is a programmable gene editing tool with a promising potential for cancer gene therapy. This therapeutic function is enabled in the present work via the non-covalent delivery of CRISPR ribonucleic protein (RNP) by cationic glucosamine/PEI-derived graphene quantum dots (PEI-GQD) that aid in overcoming physiological barriers and tracking genes of interest. PEI-GQD/RNP complex targeting the TP53 mutation overexpressed in ~50% of cancers successfully produces its double-stranded breaks in solution and in PC3 prostate cancer cells. Restoring this cancer "suicide" gene can promote cellular repair pathways and lead to cancer cell apoptosis. Its repair to the healthy form performed by simultaneous PEI-GQD delivery of CRISPR RNP and a gene repair template leads to a successful therapeutic outcome: 40% apoptotic cancer cell death, while having no effect on non-cancerous HeK293 cells. The translocation of PEI-GQD/RNP complex into PC3 cell cytoplasm is tracked via GQD intrinsic fluorescence, while EGFP-tagged RNP is detected in the cell nucleus, showing the successful detachment of the gene editing tool upon internalization. Using GQDs as non-viral delivery and imaging agents for CRISPR-Cas9 RNP sets the stage for image-guided cancer-specific gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bong Lee
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX
| | - Klara Gries
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Ryan L. McKinney
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX
| | | | - Ugur C. Topkiran
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX
| | - Jeffery Coffer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX
| | | | - Anton V. Naumov
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kong X, Gao P, Wang J, Fang Y, Hwang KC. Advances of medical nanorobots for future cancer treatments. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:74. [PMID: 37452423 PMCID: PMC10347767 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Early detection and diagnosis of many cancers is very challenging. Late stage detection of a cancer always leads to high mortality rates. It is imperative to develop novel and more sensitive and effective diagnosis and therapeutic methods for cancer treatments. The development of new cancer treatments has become a crucial aspect of medical advancements. Nanobots, as one of the most promising applications of nanomedicines, are at the forefront of multidisciplinary research. With the progress of nanotechnology, nanobots enable the assembly and deployment of functional molecular/nanosized machines and are increasingly being utilized in cancer diagnosis and therapeutic treatment. In recent years, various practical applications of nanobots for cancer treatments have transitioned from theory to practice, from in vitro experiments to in vivo applications. In this paper, we review and analyze the recent advancements of nanobots in cancer treatments, with a particular emphasis on their key fundamental features and their applications in drug delivery, tumor sensing and diagnosis, targeted therapy, minimally invasive surgery, and other comprehensive treatments. At the same time, we discuss the challenges and the potential research opportunities for nanobots in revolutionizing cancer treatments. In the future, medical nanobots are expected to become more sophisticated and capable of performing multiple medical functions and tasks, ultimately becoming true nanosubmarines in the bloodstream.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Kong
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Breast Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Yi Fang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Kuo Chu Hwang
- Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan ROC.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cheng Y, Wang H, Li M. The promise of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in diabetes mellitus therapy: How gene editing is revolutionizing diabetes research and treatment. J Diabetes Complications 2023; 37:108524. [PMID: 37295292 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2023.108524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia caused by an abnormality in insulin secretion or action. Millions of people across the world are affected by diabetes mellitus which has serious implications for their health. Over the past few decades, diabetes has become a major cause of mortality and morbidity across the world due to its rapid prevalence. Treatment for diabetes that focuses on insulin secretion and sensitization can lead to unwanted side effects and/or poor compliance, as well as treatment failure. A promising way to treat diabetes is through gene-editing technologies such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR/Cas9). However, issues such as efficiency and off-target effects have hindered the use of these technologies. In this review, we summarize what we know today about CRISPR/Cas9 technology's therapeutic potential for treating diabetes. We discuss how different strategies are employed, including cell-based therapies (such as stem cells and brown adipocytes), targeting critical genes involved in diabetes pathogenesis, and discussing the challenges and limitations associated with this technology. A novel and powerful treatment approach to diabetes and other diseases can be found with CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and further research should be carried out in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Haiyang Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Mo Li
- Department of Endocrinology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Biagioni A, Mohammadinejad R. Editorial: CRISPR advancement in cancer research and future perspectives. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1173527. [PMID: 36969044 PMCID: PMC10034366 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1173527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Biagioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessio Biagioni, ; Reza Mohammadinejad,
| | - Reza Mohammadinejad
- Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- *Correspondence: Alessio Biagioni, ; Reza Mohammadinejad,
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Targeting Cancer with CRISPR/Cas9-Based Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23010573. [PMID: 35008996 PMCID: PMC8745084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a devastating condition characterised by the uncontrolled division of cells with many forms remaining resistant to current treatment. A hallmark of cancer is the gradual accumulation of somatic mutations which drive tumorigenesis in cancerous cells, creating a mutation landscape distinctive to a cancer type, an individual patient or even a single tumour lesion. Gene editing with CRISPR/Cas9-based tools now enables the precise and permanent targeting of mutations and offers an opportunity to harness this technology to target oncogenic mutations. However, the development of safe and effective gene editing therapies for cancer relies on careful design to spare normal cells and avoid introducing other mutations. This article aims to describe recent advancements in cancer-selective treatments based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system, especially focusing on strategies for targeted delivery of the CRISPR/Cas9 machinery to affected cells, controlling Cas9 expression in tissues of interest and disrupting cancer-specific genes to result in selective death of malignant cells.
Collapse
|
6
|
Biagioni A, Chillà A, Del Rosso M, Fibbi G, Scavone F, Andreucci E, Peppicelli S, Bianchini F, Calorini L, Li Santi A, Ragno P, Margheri F, Laurenzana A. CRISPR/Cas9 uPAR Gene Knockout Results in Tumor Growth Inhibition, EGFR Downregulation and Induction of Stemness Markers in Melanoma and Colon Carcinoma Cell Lines. Front Oncol 2021; 11:663225. [PMID: 34055629 PMCID: PMC8163229 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.663225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
uPAR is a globular protein, tethered to the cell membrane by a GPI-anchor involved in several cancer-related properties and its overexpression commonly correlates with poor prognosis and metastasis. We investigated the consequences of uPAR irreversible loss in human melanoma and colon cancer cell lines, knocking out its expression by CRISPR/Cas9. We analyzed through flow cytometry, western blotting and qPCR, the modulation of the most known cancer stem cells-associated genes and the EGFR while we observed the proliferation rate exploiting 2D and 3D cellular models. We also generated uPAR “rescue” expression cell lines as well as we promoted the expression of only its 3’UTR to demonstrate the involvement of uPAR mRNA in tumor progression. Knocking out PLAUR, uPAR-encoding gene, we observed an inhibited growth ratio unexpectedly coupled with a significant percentage of cells acquiring a stem-like phenotype. In vivo experiments demonstrated that uPAR loss completely abrogates tumorigenesis despite the gained stem-like profile. Nonetheless, we proved that the reintroduction of the 3’UTR of PLAUR gene was sufficient to restore the wild-type status validating the hypothesis that such a region may act as a “molecular sponge”. In particular miR146a, by binding PLAUR 3’ UTR region might be responsible for uPAR-dependent inhibition of EGFR expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Biagioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Anastasia Chillà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Mario Del Rosso
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Gabriella Fibbi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Francesca Scavone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Elena Andreucci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Silvia Peppicelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Francesca Bianchini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Lido Calorini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Anna Li Santi
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Pia Ragno
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Francesca Margheri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Anna Laurenzana
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ahmed M, Daoud GH, Mohamed A, Harati R. New Insights into the Therapeutic Applications of CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing in Breast Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050723. [PMID: 34066014 PMCID: PMC8150278 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer globally and is among the leading causes of death in women. Its heterogenic nature is a result of the involvement of numerous aberrant genes that contribute to the multi-step pathway of tumorigenesis. Despite the fact that several disease-causing mutations have been identified, therapy is often aimed at alleviating symptoms rather than rectifying the mutation in the DNA sequence. The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 is a groundbreaking tool that is being utilized for the identification and validation of genomic targets bearing tumorigenic potential. CRISPR/Cas9 supersedes its gene-editing predecessors through its unparalleled simplicity, efficiency and affordability. In this review, we provide an overview of the CRISPR/Cas9 mechanism and discuss genes that were edited using this system for the treatment of breast cancer. In addition, we shed light on the delivery methods—both viral and non-viral—that may be used to deliver the system and the barriers associated with each. Overall, the present review provides new insights into the potential therapeutic applications of CRISPR/Cas9 for the advancement of breast cancer treatment.
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
Gastric cancer is an active topic of clinical and basic research due to high morbidity and mortality. To date, gastrectomy and chemotherapy are the only therapeutic options for gastric cancer patients, but drug resistance, either acquired or primary, is the main cause for treatment failure. Differences in development and response to cancer treatments have been observed among ethnically diverse GC patient populations. In spite of major incidence, GC Asian patients have a significantly better prognosis and response to treatments than Caucasian ones due to genetic discordances between the two populations. Gene therapy could be an alternative strategy to overcome such issues and especially CRISPR/Cas9 represents one of the most intriguing gene-editing system. Thus, in this review article, we want to provide an update on the currently used therapies for the treatment of advanced GC. Graphical abstract.
Collapse
|
9
|
Biagioni A, Laurenzana A, Chillà A, Del Rosso M, Andreucci E, Poteti M, Bani D, Guasti D, Fibbi G, Margheri F. uPAR Knockout Results in a Deep Glycolytic and OXPHOS Reprogramming in Melanoma and Colon Carcinoma Cell Lines. Cells 2020; 9:E308. [PMID: 32012858 PMCID: PMC7072355 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Urokinase Plasminogen Activator (uPA) Receptor (uPAR) is a well-known GPI-anchored three-domain membrane protein with pro-tumor roles largely shown in all the malignant tumors where it is over-expressed. Here we have exploited the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 gene knock out approach to investigate its role in the oxidative metabolism in human melanoma and colon cancer as the consequences of its irreversible loss. Knocking out PLAUR, a uPAR-encoding gene, in A375p, A375M6 and HCT116, which are two human melanoma and a colon carcinoma, respectively, we have observed an increased number of mitochondria in the two melanoma cell lines, while we evidenced an immature biogenesis of mitochondria in the colon carcinoma culture. Such biological diversity is, however, reflected in a significant enhancement of the mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity, fueled by an increased expression of GLS2, and in a decreased glycolysis paired with an increased secretion of lactate by all uPAR KO cells. We speculated that this discrepancy might be explained by an impaired ratio between LDHA and LDHB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Biagioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Anna Laurenzana
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Anastasia Chillà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Mario Del Rosso
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Elena Andreucci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Martina Poteti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Daniele Bani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (D.B.); (D.G.)
| | - Daniele Guasti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (D.B.); (D.G.)
| | - Gabriella Fibbi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Margheri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50134 Firenze, Italy; (A.L.); (A.C.); (M.D.R.); (E.A.); (M.P.); (G.F.); (F.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ruppel NJ, Estell LE, Jackson RI, Wolyniak MJ. An Undergraduate Research Project Utilizing CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing Technology to Study Gene Function in Arabidopsis thaliana. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY & BIOLOGY EDUCATION 2019; 20:20.2.31. [PMID: 31316687 PMCID: PMC6608611 DOI: 10.1128/jmbe.v20i2.1666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas9 system functions in microbial viral pathogen recognition pathways by identifying and targeting foreign DNA for degradation. Recently, biotechnological advances have allowed scientists to use CRISPR-Cas9-based elements as a molecular tool to selectively modify DNA in a wide variety of other living systems. Given the emerging need to bring engaging CRISPR-Cas9 laboratory experiences to an undergraduate audience, we incorporated a CRISPR-based research project into our Genetics class laboratories, emphasizing its use in plants. Our genetic manipulations were designed for Arabidopsis thaliana, which despite serving as a plant research model, has traditionally been difficult to use in a classroom setting. For this project, students transformed plasmid DNA containing the essential CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing elements into A. thaliana. Expression of these elements in the plant genome was expected to create a deletion at one of six targeted genes. The genes we chose had a known seedling and/or juvenile loss-of-function phenotype, which made genetic analysis by students with a limited background possible. It also allowed the project to reach completion in a typical undergraduate semester timeframe. Assessment efforts demonstrated several learning gains, including students' understanding of CRISPR-Cas9 content, their ability to apply CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tools using bioinformatics and genetics, their ability to employ elements of experimental design, and improved science communication skills. They also felt a stronger connection to their scientific education and were more likely to continue on a STEM career path. Overall, this project can be used to introduce CRISPR-Cas9 technology to undergraduates using plants in a single-semester laboratory course.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren E Estell
- Department of Biology, Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, VA 23005
| | - Robert I Jackson
- Department of Biology, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampden-Sydney, VA 23943
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tian X, Gu T, Patel S, Bode AM, Lee MH, Dong Z. CRISPR/Cas9 - An evolving biological tool kit for cancer biology and oncology. NPJ Precis Oncol 2019; 3:8. [PMID: 30911676 PMCID: PMC6423228 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-019-0080-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of genetic engineering in the 1970s marked a new frontier in genome-editing technology. Gene-editing technologies have provided a plethora of benefits to the life sciences. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR associated protein 9 (CRISPR/ Cas9) system is a versatile technology that provides the ability to add or remove DNA in the genome in a sequence-specific manner. Serious efforts are underway to improve the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 targeting and thus reduce off-target effects. Currently, various applications of CRISPR/Cas9 are used in cancer biology and oncology to perform robust site-specific gene editing, thereby becoming more useful for biological and clinical applications. Many variants and applications of CRISPR/Cas9 are being rapidly developed. Experimental approaches that are based on CRISPR technology have created a very promising tool that is inexpensive and simple for developing effective cancer therapeutics. This review discusses diverse applications of CRISPR-based gene-editing tools in oncology and potential future cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueli Tian
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, 450001 Zhengzhou, Henan China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, No.127, Dongming Road, Jinshui District, 450008 Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Tingxuan Gu
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, No.127, Dongming Road, Jinshui District, 450008 Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Satyananda Patel
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, No.127, Dongming Road, Jinshui District, 450008 Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Ann M. Bode
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, 55912 USA
| | - Mee-Hyun Lee
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, 450001 Zhengzhou, Henan China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, No.127, Dongming Road, Jinshui District, 450008 Zhengzhou, Henan China
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, 450001 Zhengzhou, Henan China
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, No.127, Dongming Road, Jinshui District, 450008 Zhengzhou, Henan China
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, 55912 USA
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Biagioni A, Laurenzana A, Margheri F, Chillà A, Fibbi G, so M. Delivery systems of CRISPR/Cas9-based cancer gene therapy. J Biol Eng 2018; 12:33. [PMID: 30574185 PMCID: PMC6299643 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-018-0127-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) is today one of the most reliable method for gene-editing, supporting previous gene therapies technologies such as TALEN, Meganucleases and ZFNs. There is a growing up number of manuscripts reporting several successful gene-edited cancer cell lines, but the real challenge is to translate this technique to the clinical practice. While treatments for diseases based on a single gene mutation is closer, being possible to target and repair the mutant allele in a selective way generating specific guide RNAs (gRNAs), many steps need to be done to apply CRISPR to face cancer. In this review, we want to give a general overview to the recent advancements in the delivery systems of the CRISPR/Cas9 machinery in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Biagioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50 –, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Laurenzana
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50 –, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Margheri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50 –, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Anastasia Chillà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50 –, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella Fibbi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50 –, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Mario so
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50 –, 50134 Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shankar S, Sreekumar A, Prasad D, Das AV, Pillai MR. Genome editing of oncogenes with ZFNs and TALENs: caveats in nuclease design. Cancer Cell Int 2018; 18:169. [PMID: 30386178 PMCID: PMC6198504 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-018-0666-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gene knockout technologies involving programmable nucleases have been used to create knockouts in several applications. Gene editing using Zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), Transcription activator like effectors (TALEs) and CRISPR/Cas systems has been used to create changes in the genome in order to make it non-functional. In the present study, we have looked into the possibility of using six fingered CompoZr ZFN pair to target the E6 gene of HPV 16 genome. Methods HPV 16+ve cell lines; SiHa and CaSki were used for experiments. CompoZr ZFNs targeting E6 gene were designed and constructed by Sigma-Aldrich. TALENs targeting E6 and E7 genes were made using TALEN assembly kit. Gene editing was monitored by T7E1 mismatch nuclease and Nuclease resistance assays. Levels of E6 and E7 were further analyzed by RT-PCR, western blot as well as immunoflourescence analyses. To check if there is any interference due to methylation, cell lines were treated with sodium butyrate, and Nocodazole. Results Although ZFN editing activity in yeast based MEL-I assay was high, it yielded very low activity in tumor cell lines; only 6% editing in CaSki and negligible activity in SiHa cell lines. Though editing efficiency was better in CaSki, no significant reduction in E6 protein levels was observed in immunocytochemical analysis. Further, in silico analysis of DNA binding prediction revealed that some of the ZFN modules bound to sequence that did not match the target sequence. Hence, alternate ZFN pairs for E6 and E7 were not synthesized since no further active sites could be identified by in silico analyses. Then we designed TALENs to target E6 and E7 gene. TALENs designed to target E7 gene led to reduction of E7 levels in CaSki and SiHa cervical cancer cell lines. However, TALEN designed to target E6 gene did not yield any editing activity. Conclusions Our study highlights that designed nucleases intended to obtain bulk effect should have a reasonable editing activity which reflects phenotypically as well. Nucleases with low editing efficiency, intended for generation of knockout cell lines nucleases could be obtained by single cell cloning. This could serve as a criterion for designing ZFNs and TALENs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-018-0666-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumitra Shankar
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Ahalya Sreekumar
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Deepti Prasad
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Ani V Das
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang D, Lin J, Chao Y, Zhang L, Jin L, Li N, He R, Ma B, Zhao W, Han C. Regulation of the adaptation to ER stress by KLF4 facilitates melanoma cell metastasis via upregulating NUCB2 expression. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2018; 37:176. [PMID: 30055641 PMCID: PMC6064624 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0842-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adaptation to ER stress has been indicated to play an important role in resistance to therapy in human melanoma. However, the relationship between adaptation to ER stress and cell metastasis in human melanoma remains unclear. METHODS The relationship of adaptation to ER stress and cell metastasis was investigated using transwell and mouse metastasis assays. The potential molecular mechanism of KLF4 in regulating the adaptation to ER stress and cell metastasis was investigated using RNA sequencing analysis, q-RT-PCR and western blot assays. The transcriptional regulation of nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2) by KLF4 was identified using bioinformatic analysis, luciferase assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). The clinical significance of KLF4 and NUCB2 was based on human tissue microarray (TMA) analysis. RESULTS Here, we demonstrated that KLF4 was induced by ER stress in melanoma cells, and increased KLF4 inhibited cell apoptosis and promoted cell metastasis. Further mechanistic studies revealed that KLF4 directly bound to the promoter of NUCB2, facilitating its transcription. Additionally, an increase in KLF4 promoted melanoma ER stress resistance, tumour growth and cell metastasis by regulating NCUB2 expression in vitro and in vivo. Elevated KLF4 was found in human melanoma tissues, which was associated with NUCB2 expression. CONCLUSION Our data revealed that the promotion of ER stress resistance via the KLF4-NUCB2 axis is essential for melanoma cell metastasis, and KLF4 may be a promising specific target for melanoma therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Zhang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.,Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Jingrong Lin
- Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning, 116027, China
| | - Yulin Chao
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Ruiping He
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Binbin Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Wenzhi Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.
| | - Chuanchun Han
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li S, Chen L, Peng X, Wang C, Qin B, Tan D, Han C, Yang H, Ren X, Liu F, Xu C, Zhou X. Overview of the reporter genes and reporter mouse models. Animal Model Exp Med 2018; 1:29-35. [PMID: 30891544 PMCID: PMC6357428 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Reporter genes are widely applied in biotechnology and biomedical research owning to their easy observation and lack of toxicity. Taking advantage of the reporter genes in conjunction with imaging technologies, a large number of reporter mouse models have been generated. Reporter mouse models provide systems that enable the studies of live cell imaging, cell lineage tracing, immunological research and cancers etc. in vivo. In this review, we describe the types of different reporter genes and reporter mouse models including, random reporter strains, Cre reporter strains and ROSA26 reporter strains. Collectively, these reporter mouse models have broadened scientific inquires and provided potential strategies for generation of novel reporter animal models with enhanced capabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shun Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Li‐xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiu‐hua Peng
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Chao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Bo‐yin Qin
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Dan Tan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Cheng‐xiao Han
- School of Agriculture and BiologyShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Hua Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiao‐nan Ren
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Fang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Chun‐hua Xu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiao‐hui Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular VirologyShanghai Public Health Clinical CenterMinistry of Education and HealthFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Huang X, Zhuang C, Zhuang C, Xiong T, Li Y, Gui Y. An enhanced hTERT promoter-driven CRISPR/Cas9 system selectively inhibits the progression of bladder cancer cells. MOLECULAR BIOSYSTEMS 2017; 13:1713-1721. [PMID: 28702647 DOI: 10.1039/c7mb00354d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The current therapies for treating tumors are lacking in efficacy and specificity. Synthetic biology principles may bring some new possible methods for curing cancer. Here we present a synthetic logic circuit based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The CRISPR/Cas9 technology has been applied in many biological fields, including cancer research. In this study, the expression of Cas9 nuclease was controlled indirectly by an enhanced hTERT promoter using the GAL4/upstream activating sequence (UAS) binding system. Cas9 was driven by 5XUAS, single guide RNA (sgRNA) was used to target mutant or wild-type HRAS, and the fusion gene GAL4-P65 was driven by the enhanced hTERT promoter. The system was tested in bladder cancer cells (T24 and 5637) and the results showed that the enhanced hTERT promoter could drive the expression of GAL4-P65 in these bladder cancer cell lines. Then all these devices were packed into lentivirus and the results of quantitative real-time PCR showed that the mRNA expression level of HRAS was selectively inhibited in the T24 and 5637 cells. The results of functional experiments suggested that the proliferation, cell migration and invasion were selectively suppressed, and that the apoptosis rate was increased in bladder cancer cells but not in human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF). In conclusion, we successfully constructed an enhanced hTERT promoter-driven CRISPR/Cas9 system and data showed that it could selectively suppress the progression of bladder cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinbo Huang
- Graduate School, Anhui Medical University, HeFei, Anhui 230032, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|