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Yoon DE, Lee H, Kim K. Recent Research Trends in Stem Cells Using CRISPR/Cas-Based Genome Editing Methods. Int J Stem Cells 2024; 17:1-14. [PMID: 37904281 PMCID: PMC10899885 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc23030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system, a rapidly advancing genome editing technology, allows DNA alterations into the genome of organisms. Gene editing using the CRISPR system enables more precise and diverse editing, such as single nucleotide conversion, precise knock-in of target sequences or genes, chromosomal rearrangement, or gene disruption by simple cutting. Moreover, CRISPR systems comprising transcriptional activators/repressors can be used for epigenetic regulation without DNA damage. Stem cell DNA engineering based on gene editing tools has enormous potential to provide clues regarding the pathogenesis of diseases and to study the mechanisms and treatments of incurable diseases. Here, we review the latest trends in stem cell research using various CRISPR/Cas technologies and discuss their future prospects in treating various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Eun Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Physiology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunji Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoungmi Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Physiology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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2
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Nguyen MT, Kim SA, Cheng YY, Hong SH, Jin YS, Han NS. A qPCR Method to Assay Endonuclease Activity of Cas9-sgRNA Ribonucleoprotein Complexes. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 33:1228-1237. [PMID: 37415091 PMCID: PMC10580886 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2305.05010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas system has emerged as the most efficient genome editing technique for a wide range of cells. Delivery of the Cas9-sgRNA ribonucleoprotein complex (Cas9 RNP) has gained popularity. The objective of this study was to develop a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)-based assay to quantify the double-strand break reaction mediated by Cas9 RNP. To accomplish this, the dextransucrase gene (dsr) from Leuconostoc citreum was selected as the target DNA. The Cas9 protein was produced using recombinant Escherichia coli BL21, and two sgRNAs were synthesized through in vitro transcription to facilitate binding with the dsr gene. Under optimized in vitro conditions, the 2.6 kb dsr DNA was specifically cleaved into 1.1 and 1.5 kb fragments by both Cas9-sgRNA365 and Cas9-sgRNA433. By monitoring changes in dsr concentration using qPCR, the endonuclease activities of the two Cas9 RNPs were measured, and their efficiencies were compared. Specifically, the specific activities of dsr365RNP and dsr433RNP were 28.74 and 34.48 (unit/μg RNP), respectively. The versatility of this method was also verified using different target genes, uracil phosphoribosyl transferase (upp) gene, of Bifidobacterium bifidum and specific sgRNAs. The assay method was also utilized to determine the impact of high electrical field on Cas9 RNP activity during an efficient electroporation process. Overall, the results demonstrated that the qPCR-based method is an effective tool for measuring the endonuclease activity of Cas9 RNP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Tri Nguyen
- Brain Korea 21 Center for Bio-Health Industry, Division of Animal, Horticultural, and Food Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
- Faculty of Biology, Dalat University, 01- Phu Dong Thien Vuong, Dalat, Vietnam
| | - Seul-Ah Kim
- Brain Korea 21 Center for Bio-Health Industry, Division of Animal, Horticultural, and Food Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Ya-Yun Cheng
- Brain Korea 21 Center for Bio-Health Industry, Division of Animal, Horticultural, and Food Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Hong
- Brain Korea 21 Center for Bio-Health Industry, Division of Animal, Horticultural, and Food Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Su Jin
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Nam Soo Han
- Brain Korea 21 Center for Bio-Health Industry, Division of Animal, Horticultural, and Food Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
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Anaganti N, Chattopadhyay A, Di Filippo M, Hussain MM. New CRISPR Technology for Creating Cell Models of Lipoprotein Assembly and Secretion. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2023; 25:209-217. [PMID: 36913170 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-023-01095-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review is aimed at providing an overview of new developments in gene editing technology, including examples of how this technology has been used to develop cell models for studying the effects of gene ablation or missense mutations on lipoprotein assembly and secretion. RECENT FINDINGS CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing is superior to other technologies because of its ease, sensitivity, and low off-target effects. This technology has been used to study the importance of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein in the assembly and secretion of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins, as well as to establish causal effects of APOB gene missense mutations on lipoprotein assembly and secretion. CRISPR/Cas9 technology is anticipated to provide unprecedented flexibility in studying protein structure and function in cells and animals and to yield mechanistic insights into variants in the human genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narasimha Anaganti
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Atrayee Chattopadhyay
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA
| | - Mathilde Di Filippo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - M Mahmood Hussain
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, 11501, USA.
- VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, Brooklyn, NY, 11209, USA.
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Methods for CRISPR-Cas as Ribonucleoprotein Complex Delivery In Vivo. Mol Biotechnol 2023; 65:181-195. [PMID: 35322386 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-022-00479-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The efficient delivery of CRISPR-Cas components is still a key and unsolved problem. CRISPR-Cas delivery in the form of a Cas protein+sgRNA (ribonucleoprotein complex, RNP complex), has proven to be extremely effective, since it allows to increase on-target activity, while reducing nonspecific activity. The key point for in vivo genome editing is the direct delivery of artificial nucleases and donor DNA molecules into the somatic cells of an adult organism. At the same time, control of the dose of artificial nucleases is impossible, which affects the efficiency of genome editing in the affected cells. Poor delivery efficiency and low editing efficacy reduce the overall potency of the in vivo genome editing process. Here we review how this problem is currently being solved in scientific works and what types of in vivo delivery methods of Cas9/sgRNA RNPs have been developed.
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Anaganti N, Chattopadhyay A, Poirier JT, Hussain MM. Generation of hepatoma cell lines deficient in microsomal triglyceride transfer protein. J Lipid Res 2022; 63:100257. [PMID: 35931202 PMCID: PMC9405095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2022.100257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) is essential for the secretion of apolipoprotein B (apoB)48- and apoB100-containing lipoproteins in the intestine and liver, respectively. Loss of function mutations in MTP cause abetalipoproteinemia. Heterologous cells are used to evaluate the function of MTP in apoB secretion to avoid background MTP activity in liver and intestine-derived cells. However, these systems are not suitable to study the role of MTP in the secretion of apoB100-containing lipoproteins, as expression of a large apoB100 peptide using plasmids is difficult. Here, we report a new cell culture model amenable for studying the role of different MTP mutations on apoB100 secretion. The endogenous MTTP gene was ablated in human hepatoma Huh-7 cells using single guide RNA and RNA-guided clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated sequence 9 ribonucleoprotein complexes. We successfully established three different clones that did not express any detectable MTTP mRNA or MTP protein or activity. These cells were defective in secreting apoB-containing lipoproteins and accumulated lipids. Furthermore, we show that transfection of these cells with plasmids expressing human MTTP cDNA resulted in the expression of MTP protein, restoration of triglyceride transfer activity, and secretion of apoB100. Thus, these new cells can be valuable tools for studying structure-function of MTP, roles of different missense mutations in various lipid transfer activities of MTP, and their ability to support apoB100 secretion, compensatory changes associated with loss of MTP, and in the identification of novel proteins that may require MTP for their synthesis and secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narasimha Anaganti
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA
| | - Atrayee Chattopadhyay
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA
| | - John T Poirier
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - M Mahmood Hussain
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA; VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
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Camperi J, Moshref M, Dai L, Lee HY. Physicochemical and Functional Characterization of Differential CRISPR-Cas9 Ribonucleoprotein Complexes. Anal Chem 2022; 94:1432-1440. [PMID: 34958212 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c04795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Advances in gene-editing technology enable efficient, targeted ex vivo engineering of different cell types, which offer a potential therapeutic platform for most challenging disease areas. CRISPR-Cas9 is a widely used gene-editing tool in therapeutic applications. The quality of gene-editing reagents (i.e., Cas9 nuclease, single guide (sg)RNA) is associated with the final cellular product quality as they can impact the gene-editing accuracy and efficiency. To assess the impact of the quality of Cas9 protein and sgRNA in the formation of a Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex, stability, and functional activities, we developed a size exclusion chromatography method that utilizes multiple detectors and an in vitro DNA cleavage assay using anion-exchange chromatography. Using these methods, we characterized the formation and stability of Cas9 RNP complexes associated with Cas9 and sgRNA characteristics as well as their functional activities. Multi-angle light scattering characterization showed different types and levels of aggregates in different source sgRNA materials, which contribute to form different Cas9 RNP complexes. The aggregations irreversibly dissociated at high temperatures. When the Cas9 RNP complexes derived from non-heated and heated sgRNAs were characterized, the data showed that specific RNP peaks were impacted. The Cas9 RNP complexes derived from the heated sgRNA retained their biological function and cleaved the double-strand target DNA at a higher rate. This work provides new tools to characterize the Cas9 RNP complex formation, stability, and functional activity and provides insights into sgRNA properties and handling procedures to better control the Cas9 RNP complex formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Camperi
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Maryam Moshref
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Lu Dai
- Protein Analytical Chemistry, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Ho Young Lee
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
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Evrard C, Faway E, De Vuyst E, Svensek O, De Glas V, Bergerat D, Salmon M, De Backer O, Flamion B, Le-Buanec H, Lambert de Rouvroit C, Poumay Y. Deletion of TNFAIP6 Gene in Human Keratinocytes Demonstrates a Role for TSG-6 to Retain Hyaluronan Inside Epidermis. JID INNOVATIONS 2021; 1:100054. [PMID: 34909750 PMCID: PMC8659394 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjidi.2021.100054] [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: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
TSG-6 is a soluble protein secreted in the extracellular matrix by various cell types in response to inflammatory stimuli. TSG-6 interacts with extracellular matrix molecules, particularly hyaluronan (HA), and promotes cutaneous wound closure in mice. Between epidermal cells, the discrete extracellular matrix contains HA and a tiny amount of TSG-6. However, challenges imposed to keratinocytes in reconstructed human epidermis revealed strong induction of TSG-6 expression, after exposure to T helper type 2 cytokines to recapitulate the atopic dermatitis phenotype or after fungal infection that causes secretion of cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. After both types of challenge, enhanced release of TSG-6 happens simultaneously with increased HA production. TSG-6 deficiency in N/TERT keratinocytes was created by inactivating TNFAIP6 using CRISPR/Cas9. Some TSG-6 -/- keratinocytes analyzed through scratch assays tend to migrate more slowly but produce reconstructed human epidermis that exhibits normal morphology and differentiation. Few significant alterations were noticed by transcriptomic analysis. Nevertheless, reduced HA content in TSG-6 -/- reconstructed human epidermis was observed, along with enhanced HA release into the culture medium, and this phenotype was even more pronounced after the challenging conditions. Reintroduction of cells producing TSG-6 in reconstructed human epidermis reduced HA leakage. Our results show a role for TSG-6 in sequestering HA between epidermal cells in response to inflammation.
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Key Words
- AD, atopic dermatitis
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- GEO, Gene Expression Omnibus
- HA, hyaluronan
- HAS, hyaluronan synthase
- KC, keratinocyte
- KLK, kallikrein
- RHE, reconstructed human epidermis
- RNA-seq, RNA sequencing
- Th, T helper type
- crRNA, CRISPR RNA
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Evrard
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Emilie Faway
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Evelyne De Vuyst
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Olivier Svensek
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Valérie De Glas
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | | | | | - Olivier De Backer
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Bruno Flamion
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Hélène Le-Buanec
- Laboratory of Oncodermatology, Immunology, and Cutaneous Stem Cells, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) U976, Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Lambert de Rouvroit
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Yves Poumay
- Research Unit of Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NAmur Research Institute for LIfe Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
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Ahmad A, Munawar N, Khan Z, Qusmani AT, Khan SH, Jamil A, Ashraf S, Ghouri MZ, Aslam S, Mubarik MS, Munir A, Sultan Q, Abd-Elsalam KA, Qari SH. An Outlook on Global Regulatory Landscape for Genome-Edited Crops. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11753. [PMID: 34769204 PMCID: PMC8583973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The revolutionary technology of CRISPR/Cas systems and their extraordinary potential to address fundamental questions in every field of biological sciences has led to their developers being awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize for Chemistry. In agriculture, CRISPR/Cas systems have accelerated the development of new crop varieties with improved traits-without the need for transgenes. However, the future of this technology depends on a clear and truly global regulatory framework being developed for these crops. Some CRISPR-edited crops are already on the market, and yet countries and regions are still divided over their legal status. CRISPR editing does not require transgenes, making CRISPR crops more socially acceptable than genetically modified crops, but there is vigorous debate over how to regulate these crops and what precautionary measures are required before they appear on the market. This article reviews intended outcomes and risks arising from the site-directed nuclease CRISPR systems used to improve agricultural crop plant genomes. It examines how various CRISPR system components, and potential concerns associated with CRISPR/Cas, may trigger regulatory oversight of CRISPR-edited crops. The article highlights differences and similarities between GMOs and CRISPR-edited crops, and discusses social and ethical concerns. It outlines the regulatory framework for GMO crops, which many countries also apply to CRISPR-edited crops, and the global regulatory landscape for CRISPR-edited crops. The article concludes with future prospects for CRISPR-edited crops and their products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aftab Ahmad
- Center for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security (CASAFS), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.A.); (S.H.K.); (M.Z.G.); (S.A.); (M.S.M.); (Q.S.)
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.J.); (S.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Nayla Munawar
- Department of Chemistry, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Zulqurnain Khan
- Institute of Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, MNS University of Agriculture Multan, Multan 60000, Pakistan;
| | - Alaa T. Qusmani
- Biology Department, Al-Jumum University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24243, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sultan Habibullah Khan
- Center for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security (CASAFS), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.A.); (S.H.K.); (M.Z.G.); (S.A.); (M.S.M.); (Q.S.)
- Center for Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology (CABB), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Amer Jamil
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.J.); (S.A.); (A.M.)
- Center for Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology (CABB), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Sidra Ashraf
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.J.); (S.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Muhammad Zubair Ghouri
- Center for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security (CASAFS), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.A.); (S.H.K.); (M.Z.G.); (S.A.); (M.S.M.); (Q.S.)
- Center for Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology (CABB), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Sabin Aslam
- Center for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security (CASAFS), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.A.); (S.H.K.); (M.Z.G.); (S.A.); (M.S.M.); (Q.S.)
| | - Muhammad Salman Mubarik
- Center for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security (CASAFS), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.A.); (S.H.K.); (M.Z.G.); (S.A.); (M.S.M.); (Q.S.)
| | - Ahmad Munir
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.J.); (S.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Qaiser Sultan
- Center for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security (CASAFS), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; (A.A.); (S.H.K.); (M.Z.G.); (S.A.); (M.S.M.); (Q.S.)
| | - Kamel A. Abd-Elsalam
- Plant Pathology Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Giza 12619, Egypt;
| | - Sameer H. Qari
- Molecular Biology Central Laboratory (GMCL), Department of Biology/Genetics, Aljumum University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24243, Saudi Arabia
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Ahmad A, Munawar N, Khan Z, Qusmani AT, Khan SH, Jamil A, Ashraf S, Ghouri MZ, Aslam S, Mubarik MS, Munir A, Sultan Q, Abd-Elsalam KA, Qari SH. An Outlook on Global Regulatory Landscape for Genome-Edited Crops. Int J Mol Sci 2021. [DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222111753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The revolutionary technology of CRISPR/Cas systems and their extraordinary potential to address fundamental questions in every field of biological sciences has led to their developers being awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize for Chemistry. In agriculture, CRISPR/Cas systems have accelerated the development of new crop varieties with improved traits—without the need for transgenes. However, the future of this technology depends on a clear and truly global regulatory framework being developed for these crops. Some CRISPR-edited crops are already on the market, and yet countries and regions are still divided over their legal status. CRISPR editing does not require transgenes, making CRISPR crops more socially acceptable than genetically modified crops, but there is vigorous debate over how to regulate these crops and what precautionary measures are required before they appear on the market. This article reviews intended outcomes and risks arising from the site-directed nuclease CRISPR systems used to improve agricultural crop plant genomes. It examines how various CRISPR system components, and potential concerns associated with CRISPR/Cas, may trigger regulatory oversight of CRISPR-edited crops. The article highlights differences and similarities between GMOs and CRISPR-edited crops, and discusses social and ethical concerns. It outlines the regulatory framework for GMO crops, which many countries also apply to CRISPR-edited crops, and the global regulatory landscape for CRISPR-edited crops. The article concludes with future prospects for CRISPR-edited crops and their products.
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10
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Abstract
The revolutionary technology of CRISPR/Cas systems and their extraordinary potential to address fundamental questions in every field of biological sciences has led to their developers being awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize for Chemistry. In agriculture, CRISPR/Cas systems have accelerated the development of new crop varieties with improved traits-without the need for transgenes. However, the future of this technology depends on a clear and truly global regulatory framework being developed for these crops. Some CRISPR-edited crops are already on the market, and yet countries and regions are still divided over their legal status. CRISPR editing does not require transgenes, making CRISPR crops more socially acceptable than genetically modified crops, but there is vigorous debate over how to regulate these crops and what precautionary measures are required before they appear on the market. This article reviews intended outcomes and risks arising from the site-directed nuclease CRISPR systems used to improve agricultural crop plant genomes. It examines how various CRISPR system components, and potential concerns associated with CRISPR/Cas, may trigger regulatory oversight of CRISPR-edited crops. The article highlights differences and similarities between GMOs and CRISPR-edited crops, and discusses social and ethical concerns. It outlines the regulatory framework for GMO crops, which many countries also apply to CRISPR-edited crops, and the global regulatory landscape for CRISPR-edited crops. The article concludes with future prospects for CRISPR-edited crops and their products.
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11
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Goullée H, Taylor RL, Forrest ARR, Laing NG, Ravenscroft G, Clayton JS. Improved CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in primary human myoblasts using low confluency cultures on Matrigel. Skelet Muscle 2021; 11:23. [PMID: 34551826 PMCID: PMC8456651 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-021-00278-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background CRISPR/Cas9 is an invaluable tool for studying cell biology and the development of molecular therapies. However, delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 components into some cell types remains a major hurdle. Primary human myoblasts are a valuable cell model for muscle studies, but are notoriously difficult to transfect. There are currently no commercial lipofection protocols tailored for primary myoblasts, and most generic guidelines simply recommend transfecting healthy cells at high confluency. This study aimed to maximize CRISPR/Cas9 transfection and editing in primary human myoblasts. Methods Since increased cell proliferation is associated with increased transfection efficiency, we investigated two factors known to influence myoblast proliferation: cell confluency, and a basement membrane matrix, Matrigel. CRISPR/Cas9 editing was performed by delivering Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complexes via lipofection into primary human myoblasts, cultured in wells with or without a Matrigel coating, at low (~ 40%) or high (~ 80%) confluency. Results Cells transfected at low confluency on Matrigel-coated wells had the highest levels of transfection, and were most effectively edited across three different target loci, achieving a maximum editing efficiency of 93.8%. On average, editing under these conditions was >4-fold higher compared to commercial recommendations (high confluency, uncoated wells). Conclusion This study presents a simple, effective and economical method of maximizing CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing in primary human myoblasts. This protocol could be a valuable tool for improving the genetic manipulation of cultured human skeletal muscle cells, and potentially be adapted for use in other cell types. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13395-021-00278-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Goullée
- Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, 6 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Rhonda L Taylor
- Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, 6 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.,School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Alistair R R Forrest
- Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, 6 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Nigel G Laing
- Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, 6 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Gianina Ravenscroft
- Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, 6 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Joshua S Clayton
- Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia. .,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, 6 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
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12
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Xiang X, Corsi GI, Anthon C, Qu K, Pan X, Liang X, Han P, Dong Z, Liu L, Zhong J, Ma T, Wang J, Zhang X, Jiang H, Xu F, Liu X, Xu X, Wang J, Yang H, Bolund L, Church GM, Lin L, Gorodkin J, Luo Y. Enhancing CRISPR-Cas9 gRNA efficiency prediction by data integration and deep learning. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3238. [PMID: 34050182 PMCID: PMC8163799 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23576-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The design of CRISPR gRNAs requires accurate on-target efficiency predictions, which demand high-quality gRNA activity data and efficient modeling. To advance, we here report on the generation of on-target gRNA activity data for 10,592 SpCas9 gRNAs. Integrating these with complementary published data, we train a deep learning model, CRISPRon, on 23,902 gRNAs. Compared to existing tools, CRISPRon exhibits significantly higher prediction performances on four test datasets not overlapping with training data used for the development of these tools. Furthermore, we present an interactive gRNA design webserver based on the CRISPRon standalone software, both available via https://rth.dk/resources/crispr/ . CRISPRon advances CRISPR applications by providing more accurate gRNA efficiency predictions than the existing tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Xiang
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Giulia I Corsi
- Center for non-coding RNA in Technology and Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Christian Anthon
- Center for non-coding RNA in Technology and Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Kunli Qu
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Xiaoguang Pan
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
| | - Xue Liang
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peng Han
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Zhanying Dong
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
| | - Lijun Liu
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Tao Ma
- MGI, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | | | | | | | - Fengping Xu
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Liu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xun Xu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Genome Read and Write, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Huanming Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Academician Workstation of BGI Synthetic Genomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lars Bolund
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - George M Church
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lin Lin
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jan Gorodkin
- Center for non-coding RNA in Technology and Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Yonglun Luo
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, China.
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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13
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Riggan L, Hildreth AD, Rolot M, Wong YY, Satyadi W, Sun R, Huerta C, O'Sullivan TE. CRISPR-Cas9 Ribonucleoprotein-Mediated Genomic Editing in Mature Primary Innate Immune Cells. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107651. [PMID: 32433960 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR genome engineering has become a powerful tool to functionally investigate the complex mechanisms of immune system regulation. While decades of work have aimed to genetically reprogram innate immunity, the utility of current approaches is restricted by poor knockout efficiencies or limited specificity for mature cell lineages in vivo. Here, we describe an optimized strategy for non-viral CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (cRNP) genomic editing of mature primary mouse innate lymphocyte cells (ILCs) and myeloid lineage cells that results in an almost complete loss of single or double target gene expression from a single electroporation. Furthermore, we describe in vivo adoptive transfer mouse models that can be utilized to screen for gene function during viral infection using cRNP-edited naive natural killer (NK) cells and bone-marrow-derived conventional dendritic cell precursors (cDCPs). This resource will enhance target gene discovery and offer a specific and simplified approach to gene editing in the mouse innate immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Riggan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Andrew D Hildreth
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Marion Rolot
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA
| | - Yung-Yu Wong
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA
| | - William Satyadi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA
| | - Ryan Sun
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA
| | - Christopher Huerta
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA
| | - Timothy E O'Sullivan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 900953, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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14
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Recent Advances in Genome Editing Tools in Medical Mycology Research. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7040257. [PMID: 33808382 PMCID: PMC8067129 DOI: 10.3390/jof7040257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Manipulating fungal genomes is an important tool to understand the function of target genes, pathobiology of fungal infections, virulence potential, and pathogenicity of medically important fungi, and to develop novel diagnostics and therapeutic targets. Here, we provide an overview of recent advances in genetic manipulation techniques used in the field of medical mycology. Fungi use several strategies to cope with stress and adapt themselves against environmental effectors. For instance, mutations in the 14 alpha-demethylase gene may result in azole resistance in Aspergillusfumigatus strains and shield them against fungicide's effects. Over the past few decades, several genome editing methods have been introduced for genetic manipulations in pathogenic fungi. Application of restriction enzymes to target and cut a double-stranded DNA in a pre-defined sequence was the first technique used for cloning in Aspergillus and Candida. Genome editing technologies, including zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) and transcriptional activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), have been also used to engineer a double-stranded DNA molecule. As a result, TALENs were considered more practical to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms. Recently, Class 2 type II Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat (CRISPR)/Cas9 technology has emerged as a more useful tool for genome manipulation in fungal research.
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15
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Lu Z, Yao X, Lyu P, Yadav M, Yoo K, Atala A, Lu B. Lentiviral Capsid-Mediated Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 Ribonucleoprotein Delivery for Efficient and Safe Multiplex Genome Editing. CRISPR J 2021; 4:914-928. [PMID: 33733873 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient expression of the CRISPR-Cas9 machinery is desirable to reduce the risks of off-targets and immune responses. Electroporation of Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) is the most common delivery method to achieve transient Cas9 expression. Recently, retroviral capsids have been used for delivering Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 RNPs, in which Cas9 was fused to the viral proteins. The fusion strategy may cause relative low capsid assembly efficiency. We recently developed virus-like particles (VLPs) consisting of lentiviral capsid and Staphylococcus aureus Cas9 RNPs using the specific interactions between aptamer and aptamer-binding protein (ABP), and obtained near-normal capsid assembly efficiency. Here we test whether highly active Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) RNP VLPs can be generated with high efficiency by aptamer/ABP interaction. We found that by optimizing the locations and types of aptamer used for single guide RNA modification, highly active SpCas9 RNP VLPs can be generated efficiently. VLP-delivered SpCas9 generated lower off-target insertions and deletions than SpCas9 RNPs delivered by electroporation. VLPs containing Cas9 from different species and targeting multiple genes can be efficiently prepared in single-particle preparation. Multiple-target VLPs were more efficient than the combination of single-target VLPs for simultaneous targeting of multiple genes. Thus, in addition to better safety features, the Cas9 VLPs are especially suited for multiplex genome editing. In summary, our VLPs offer safe, efficient, and flexible multiplex genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuyan Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Xingang Yao
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Pin Lyu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Manish Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kyung Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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16
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Huang RS, Lai MC, Shih HA, Lin S. A robust platform for expansion and genome editing of primary human natural killer cells. J Exp Med 2021; 218:e20201529. [PMID: 33433623 PMCID: PMC7808298 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20201529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome editing is a powerful technique for delineating complex signaling circuitry and enhancing the functionality of immune cells for immunotherapy. Natural killer (NK) cells are potent immune effectors against cell malignancy, but they are challenging to modify genetically by conventional methods due to the toxicity of DNA when introduced into cells coupled with limited transfection and transduction efficiency. Here, we describe an integrated platform that streamlines feeder-free ex vivo expansion of cryopreserved primary human NK cells and nonviral genome editing by the nucleofection of CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (Cas9 RNPs). The optimized Cas9 nucleofection protocol allows efficient and multiplex gene knockout in NK cells while preserving high cell viability and negligible off-target effects. Cointroduction of a DNA template also enables in-frame gene knock-in of an HA affinity tag and a gfp reporter across multiple loci. This work demonstrates the advantages and flexibility of working with cryopreserved NK cells as potential off-the-shelf engineered therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rih-Sheng Huang
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Min-Chi Lai
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-An Shih
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Steven Lin
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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17
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Lyu P, Lu Z, Cho SI, Yadav M, Yoo KW, Atala A, Kim JS, Lu B. Adenine Base Editor Ribonucleoproteins Delivered by Lentivirus-Like Particles Show High On-Target Base Editing and Undetectable RNA Off-Target Activities. CRISPR J 2021; 4:69-81. [PMID: 33616436 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenine base editors (ABEs) can correct gene mutations without creating double-strand breaks. However, in recent reports, these editors showed guide-independent RNA off-target activities. This work describes our development of a delivery method to minimize ABEs' RNA off-target activity. After discovering a RNA off-target hot spot for sensitive detection of RNA off-target activities, we found that delivering ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) by electroporation generated undetectable non-specific RNA editing, but on-target base editing activity was also relatively low. We then explored a lentivirus capsid-based delivery strategy to deliver ABE. We used aptamer/aptamer-binding protein (ABP) interactions to package ABE RNPs into lentiviral capsids. Capsid RNPs were delivered to human cells for highly efficient guided base editing. Importantly, RNA off-target activities from the capsid RNPs were undetectable. Our new lentiviral capsid-based ABE RNP delivery method with minimal RNA off-target activities makes ABE one step closer to possible therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- School of Physical Education and Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Zuyan Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sung-Ik Cho
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Manish Yadav
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kyung Whan Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jin-Soo Kim
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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18
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Lyu P, Wang L, Lu B. Virus-Like Particle Mediated CRISPR/Cas9 Delivery for Efficient and Safe Genome Editing. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:366. [PMID: 33371215 PMCID: PMC7766694 DOI: 10.3390/life10120366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of designer nucleases has made genome editing much more efficient than before. The designer nucleases have been widely used for mechanistic studies, animal model generation and gene therapy development. However, potential off-targets and host immune responses are issues still need to be addressed for in vivo uses, especially clinical applications. Short term expression of the designer nucleases is necessary to reduce both risks. Currently, various delivery methods are being developed for transient expression of designer nucleases including Zinc Finger Nuclease (ZNF), Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nuclease (TALEN) and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated (CRISPR/Cas). Recently, virus-like particles are being used for gene editing. In this review, we will talk through commonly used genome editing nucleases, discuss gene editing delivery tools and review the latest literature using virus-like particles to deliver gene editing effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- School of Physical Education and Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China;
| | - Luxi Wang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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19
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Gene Delivery to the Skin - How Far Have We Come? Trends Biotechnol 2020; 39:474-487. [PMID: 32873394 PMCID: PMC7456264 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapies are powerful tools to prevent, treat, and cure human diseases. The application of gene therapies for skin diseases received little attention so far, despite the easy accessibility of skin and the urgent medical need. A major obstacle is the unique barrier properties of human skin, which significantly limits the absorption of biomacromolecules, and thus hampers the efficient delivery of nucleic acid payloads. In this review, we discuss current approaches, successes, and failures of cutaneous gene therapy and provide guidance toward the development of next-generation concepts. We specifically allude to the delivery strategies as the major obstacle that prevents the full potential of gene therapies – not only for skin disorders but also for almost any other human disease. Gene therapies are powerful tools for the treatment of inflammatory, genetic, and cancer-related skin diseases. The skin barrier function and the low number of cells that get transfected are the main hurdles for cutaneous gene therapy and contribute to the fact that gene therapies for skin diseases are an underexplored area. Gene editing provides an approach to cure rare and severe genodermatoses-like epidermolysis bullosa. First studies demonstrate the potential and invaluable impact these treatments may have even if only a small percentage of the gene function can be restored. Recent advancements demonstrate the power of non-viral delivery systems for the delivery of gene therapeutics to the skin. They may prove superior to viral vectors, the current gold standard, because their use is not limited by packaging size, serious safety concerns, or manufacturing issues.
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20
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van Haasteren J, Li J, Scheideler OJ, Murthy N, Schaffer DV. The delivery challenge: fulfilling the promise of therapeutic genome editing. Nat Biotechnol 2020; 38:845-855. [PMID: 32601435 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-020-0565-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing has the potential to treat an extensive range of incurable monogenic and complex diseases. In particular, advances in sequence-specific nuclease technologies have dramatically accelerated the development of therapeutic genome editing strategies that are based on either the knockout of disease-causing genes or the repair of endogenous mutated genes. These technologies are progressing into human clinical trials. However, challenges remain before the therapeutic potential of genome editing can be fully realized. Delivery technologies that have serendipitously been developed over the past couple decades in the protein and nucleic acid delivery fields have been crucial to genome editing success to date, including adeno-associated viral and lentiviral vectors for gene therapy and lipid nanoparticle and other non-viral vectors for nucleic acid and protein delivery. However, the efficiency and tissue targeting capabilities of these vehicles must be further improved. In addition, the genome editing enzymes themselves need to be optimized, and challenges regarding their editing efficiency, specificity and immunogenicity must be addressed. Emerging protein engineering and synthetic chemistry approaches can offer solutions and enable the development of safe and efficacious clinical genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost van Haasteren
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Niren Murthy
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - David V Schaffer
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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21
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Li L, Zinovyeva AY. Protein Extract Preparation and Co-immunoprecipitation from Caenorhabditis elegans. J Vis Exp 2020. [PMID: 32510481 DOI: 10.3791/61243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Co-immunoprecipitation methods are frequently used to study protein-protein interactions. Confirmation of hypothesized protein-protein interactions or identification of new ones can provide invaluable information about the function of a protein of interest. Some of the traditional methods for extract preparation frequently require labor-intensive and time-consuming techniques. Here, a modified extract preparation protocol using a bead mill homogenizer and metal beads is described as a rapid alternative to traditional protein preparation methods. This extract preparation method is compatible with downstream co-immunoprecipitation studies. As an example, the method was used to successfully co-immunoprecipitate C. elegans microRNA Argonaute ALG-1 and two known ALG-1 interactors: AIN-1, and HRPK-1. This protocol includes descriptions of animal sample collection, extract preparation, extract clarification, and protein immunoprecipitation. The described protocol can be adapted to test for interactions between any two or more endogenous, endogenously tagged, or overexpressed C. elegans proteins in a variety of genetic backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Division of Biology, Kansas State University
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22
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Xu S, Pham T, Neupane S. Delivery methods for CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in crustaceans. MARINE LIFE SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 2:1-5. [PMID: 33313574 PMCID: PMC7731668 DOI: 10.1007/s42995-019-00011-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In this mini-review we provide an up-to-date overview of the delivery methods that have been used for CRISPR/Cas9 genomic editing in crustacean species. With embryonic microinjection as the main workforce for delivering CRISPR/Cas9 reagents, biologists working with crustacean species have to tackle the technical challenges involved in microinjection. We use examples of three crustacean species (the branchiopod Daphnia, amphipod Parhyale hawaiensis, and decapod Exopalaemon carinicauda) to provide a technical guide for embryonic microinjection. Moreover, we outline two potentially useful new techniques for delivering CRISPR/Cas9 components into crustaceans, i.e., Receptor-Mediated Ovary Transduction of Cargo (ReMOT Control) and electroporation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Xu
- Corresponding author: Sen Xu, 501 S. Nedderman Dr, Arlington, Texas 76019, USA. Phone: 812-272-3986.
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23
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Lyu P, Javidi-Parsijani P, Atala A, Lu B. Delivering Cas9/sgRNA ribonucleoprotein (RNP) by lentiviral capsid-based bionanoparticles for efficient 'hit-and-run' genome editing. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:e99. [PMID: 31299082 PMCID: PMC6753487 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient expression of the CRISPR/Cas9 machinery will not only reduce risks of mutagenesis from off-target activities, but also decrease possible immune response to Cas9 protein. Building on our recent developing of a system able to package up to 100 copies of Cas9 mRNA in each lentivirus-like particle (LVLP) via the specific interaction between aptamer and aptamer-binding proteins (ABP), here we develop a lentiviral capsid-based bionanoparticle system, which allows efficient packaging of Cas9/sgRNA ribonucleoprotein (RNP). We show that replacing the Tetraloop of sgRNA scaffold with a com aptamer preserves the functions of the guide RNA, and the com-modified sgRNA can package Cas9/sgRNA RNP into lentivirus-like particles via the specific interactions between ABP and aptamer, and sgRNA and Cas9 protein. These RNP bionanoparticles generated Indels on different targets in different cells with efficiencies similar to or better than our recently described Cas9 mRNA LVLPs. The new system showed fast action and reduced off-target rates, and makes it more convenient and efficient in delivering Cas9 RNPs for transient Cas9 expression and efficient genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Lyu
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, Anhui, 241000, China.,Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Parisa Javidi-Parsijani
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Baisong Lu
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
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24
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Valenti MT, Serena M, Carbonare LD, Zipeto D. CRISPR/Cas system: An emerging technology in stem cell research. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:937-956. [PMID: 31768221 PMCID: PMC6851009 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i11.937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification of new and even more precise technologies for modifying and manipulating the genome has been a challenge since the discovery of the DNA double helix. The ability to modify selectively specific genes provides a powerful tool for characterizing gene functions, performing gene therapy, correcting specific genetic mutations, eradicating diseases, engineering cells and organisms to achieve new and different functions and obtaining transgenic animals as models for studying specific diseases. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 technology has recently revolutionized genome engineering. The application of this new technology to stem cell research allows disease models to be developed to explore new therapeutic tools. The possibility of translating new systems of molecular knowledge to clinical research is particularly appealing for addressing degenerative diseases. In this review, we describe several applications of CRISPR/Cas9 to stem cells related to degenerative diseases. In addition, we address the challenges and future perspectives regarding the use of CRISPR/Cas9 as an important technology in the medical sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Valenti
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine D, University of Verona, Verona 37134, Italy.
| | - Michela Serena
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Luca Dalle Carbonare
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine D, University of Verona, Verona 37134, Italy
| | - Donato Zipeto
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Verona 37134, Italy
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Giuliano CJ, Lin A, Girish V, Sheltzer JM. Generating Single Cell-Derived Knockout Clones in Mammalian Cells with CRISPR/Cas9. CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 128:e100. [PMID: 31503414 PMCID: PMC6741428 DOI: 10.1002/cpmb.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 technology enables the rapid generation of loss-of-function mutations in a targeted gene in mammalian cells. A single cell harboring those mutations can be used to establish a new cell line, thereby creating a CRISPR-induced knockout clone. These clonal cell lines serve as crucial tools for exploring protein function, analyzing the consequences of gene loss, and investigating the specificity of biological reagents. However, the successful derivation of knockout clones can be technically challenging and may be complicated by multiple factors, including incomplete target ablation and interclonal heterogeneity. Here, we describe optimized protocols and plasmids for generating clonal knockouts in mammalian cell lines. We provide strategies for guide RNA design, CRISPR delivery, and knockout validation that facilitate the derivation of true knockout clones and are amenable to multiplexed gene targeting. These protocols will be broadly useful for researchers seeking to apply CRISPR to study gene function in mammalian cells. © 2019 The Authors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Giuliano
- Cold Spring Harbor LaboratoryCold Spring HarborNew York
- Stony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew York
- Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMassachusetts
| | - Ann Lin
- Cold Spring Harbor LaboratoryCold Spring HarborNew York
- Stony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew York
| | - Vishruth Girish
- Cold Spring Harbor LaboratoryCold Spring HarborNew York
- Stony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew York
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26
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Weigle S, Martin E, Voegtle A, Wahl B, Schuler M. Primary cell-based phenotypic assays to pharmacologically and genetically study fibrotic diseases in vitro. J Biol Methods 2019; 6:e115. [PMID: 31453262 PMCID: PMC6706098 DOI: 10.14440/jbm.2019.285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ongoing tissue repair and formation and deposition of collagen-rich extracellular matrix in tissues and organs finally lead to fibrotic lesions and destruction of normal tissue/organ architecture and function. In the lung, scarring is observed in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to various degrees. At the cellular level immune cells, fibroblasts and epithelial cells are all involved in fibrotic processes. Mechanistically, fibroblast to myofibroblast transformation and epithelial to mesenchymal transition are major drivers of fibrosis. Amongst others, both processes are controlled by transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFβ-1), a growth factor upregulated in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis lungs. Phenotypic assays with primary human cells and complex disease-relevant readouts become increasingly important in modern drug discovery processes. We describe high-content screening based phenotypic assays with primary normal human lung fibroblasts and primary human airway epithelial cells. For both cell types, TGFβ-1 stimulation is used to induce fibrotic phenotypes in vitro, with alpha smooth muscle actin and collagen-I as readouts for FMT and E-cadherin as a readout for EMT. For each assay, a detailed image analysis protocols is described. Treatment of both cell types with TGFβ-1 and a transforming growth factor beta receptor inhibitor verifies the suitability of the assays for pharmacological interventions. In addition, the assays are compatible for siRNA and Cas9-ribonucleoprotein transfections, and thus are useful for genetic target identification/validation by modulating gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michael Schuler
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Department of Drug Discovery Sciences, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
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Enzmann BL, Wronski A. Synthego's Engineered Cells Allow Scientists to "Cut Out" CRISPR Optimization [SPONSORED]. CRISPR J 2019; 1:255-257. [PMID: 31021223 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2018.29022.pro] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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28
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An Efficient Genome Editing Strategy To Generate Putative Null Mutants in Caenorhabditis elegans Using CRISPR/Cas9. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2018; 8:3607-3616. [PMID: 30224336 PMCID: PMC6222585 DOI: 10.1534/g3.118.200662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Null mutants are essential for analyzing gene function. Here, we describe a simple and efficient method to generate Caenorhabditis elegans null mutants using CRISPR/Cas9 and short single stranded DNA oligo repair templates to insert a universal 43-nucleotide-long knock-in cassette (STOP-IN) into the early exons of target genes. This STOP-IN cassette has stop codons in all three reading frames and leads to frameshifts, which will generate putative null mutations regardless of the reading frame of the insertion position in exons. The STOP-IN cassette also contains an exogenous Cas9 target site that allows further genome editing and provides a unique sequence that simplifies the identification of successful insertion events via PCR. As a proof of concept, we inserted the STOP-IN cassette at a Cas9 target site in aex-2 to generate new putative null alleles by injecting preassembled Cas9 ribonucleoprotein and a short synthetic single stranded DNA repair template containing the STOP-IN cassette and two ∼35-nucleotide-long homology arms identical to the sequences flanking the Cas9 cut site. We showed that these new aex-2 alleles phenocopied an existing loss-of-function allele of aex-2. We further showed that the new aex-2 null alleles could be reverted back to the wild-type sequence by targeting the exogenous Cas9 cut site included in the STOP-IN cassette and providing a single stranded wild-type DNA repair oligo. We applied our STOP-IN method to generate new putative null mutants for 20 additional genes, including three pharyngeal muscle-specific genes (clik-1, clik-2, and clik-3), and reported a high insertion rate (46%) based on the animals we screened. We showed that null mutations of clik-2 cause recessive lethality with a severe pumping defect and clik-3 null mutants have a mild pumping defect, while clik-1 is dispensable for pumping. We expect that the knock-in method using the STOP-IN cassette will facilitate the generation of new null mutants to understand gene function in C. elegans and other genetic model organisms.
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