1
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Wimmer F, Englert F, Wandera KG, Alkhnbashi O, Collins S, Backofen R, Beisel C. Interrogating two extensively self-targeting Type I CRISPR-Cas systems in Xanthomonas albilineans reveals distinct anti-CRISPR proteins that block DNA degradation. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:769-783. [PMID: 38015466 PMCID: PMC10810201 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas systems store fragments of invader DNA as spacers to recognize and clear those same invaders in the future. Spacers can also be acquired from the host's genomic DNA, leading to lethal self-targeting. While self-targeting can be circumvented through different mechanisms, natural examples remain poorly explored. Here, we investigate extensive self-targeting by two CRISPR-Cas systems encoding 24 self-targeting spacers in the plant pathogen Xanthomonas albilineans. We show that the native I-C and I-F1 systems are actively expressed and that CRISPR RNAs are properly processed. When expressed in Escherichia coli, each Cascade complex binds its PAM-flanked DNA target to block transcription, while the addition of Cas3 paired with genome targeting induces cell killing. While exploring how X. albilineans survives self-targeting, we predicted putative anti-CRISPR proteins (Acrs) encoded within the bacterium's genome. Screening of identified candidates with cell-free transcription-translation systems and in E. coli revealed two Acrs, which we named AcrIC11 and AcrIF12Xal, that inhibit the activity of Cas3 but not Cascade of the respective system. While AcrF12Xal is homologous to AcrIF12, AcrIC11 shares sequence and structural homology with the anti-restriction protein KlcA. These findings help explain tolerance of self-targeting through two CRISPR-Cas systems and expand the known suite of DNA degradation-inhibiting Acrs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Wimmer
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Frank Englert
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Katharina G Wandera
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Omer S Alkhnbashi
- Information and Computer Science Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Intelligent Secure Systems (IRC-ISS), King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Scott P Collins
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Rolf Backofen
- Bioinformatics group, Department of Computer Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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2
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Trapp W, Heid A, Röder S, Wimmer F, Weiß H, Hajak G. "Try to Build This Bunny as Fast as Possible without Using Red or Pink Bricks": How Simple Assembly Tasks Might Aid in Detecting People with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1693. [PMID: 38137141 PMCID: PMC10742155 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are still underdiagnosed in the general population. Impaired odor identification has been identified as an early marker of MCI and dementia. We aim to investigate whether short tasks, in which simple forms must be assembled from single building blocks based on a template or while considering specific re-strictions, could increase the diagnostic quality of established cognitive screening tests in detecting MCI or dementia. (2) Methods: A brief assembly test, where participants had to assemble simple animal shapes from Lego® Duplo® building blocks, the Frontal Assessment Battery, and the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) were administered to a consecutive series of 197 patients (89 with mild dementia, 62 with mild cognitive impairment, and 46 without cognitive impairment) referred for neuropsychological testing. (3) Results: Both participants with dementia and with MCI performed badly in the assembly tasks. The assembly tasks and the Frontal Assessment Battery were substantially correlated. Complementing MMSE scores with the assembly tasks improved the diagnostic accuracy of individuals with dementia and MCI. (4) Conclusions: People with suspected dementia or MCI may already benefit from simple assembly tasks. Although these tests require little additional time, they can notably increase sensitivity for dementia or MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Trapp
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (H.W.); (G.H.)
- Department of Physiological Psychology, Otto-Friedrich University Bamberg, Markusplatz 3, 96045 Bamberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Heid
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (H.W.); (G.H.)
| | - Susanne Röder
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (H.W.); (G.H.)
| | - Franziska Wimmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (H.W.); (G.H.)
| | - Helmar Weiß
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (H.W.); (G.H.)
| | - Göran Hajak
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (H.W.); (G.H.)
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3
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Esser SP, Rahlff J, Zhao W, Predl M, Plewka J, Sures K, Wimmer F, Lee J, Adam PS, McGonigle J, Turzynski V, Banas I, Schwank K, Krupovic M, Bornemann TLV, Figueroa-Gonzalez PA, Jarett J, Rattei T, Amano Y, Blaby IK, Cheng JF, Brazelton WJ, Beisel CL, Woyke T, Zhang Y, Probst AJ. A predicted CRISPR-mediated symbiosis between uncultivated archaea. Nat Microbiol 2023; 8:1619-1633. [PMID: 37500801 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01439-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas systems defend prokaryotic cells from invasive DNA of viruses, plasmids and other mobile genetic elements. Here, we show using metagenomics, metatranscriptomics and single-cell genomics that CRISPR systems of widespread, uncultivated archaea can also target chromosomal DNA of archaeal episymbionts of the DPANN superphylum. Using meta-omics datasets from Crystal Geyser and Horonobe Underground Research Laboratory, we find that CRISPR spacers of the hosts Candidatus Altiarchaeum crystalense and Ca. A. horonobense, respectively, match putative essential genes in their episymbionts' genomes of the genus Ca. Huberiarchaeum and that some of these spacers are expressed in situ. Metabolic interaction modelling also reveals complementation between host-episymbiont systems, on the basis of which we propose that episymbionts are either parasitic or mutualistic depending on the genotype of the host. By expanding our analysis to 7,012 archaeal genomes, we suggest that CRISPR-Cas targeting of genomes associated with symbiotic archaea evolved independently in various archaeal lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah P Esser
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Janina Rahlff
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Department of Biology and Environmental Science, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Weishu Zhao
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, College of the Environment and Life Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, International Center for Deep Life Investigation (IC-DLI), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Michael Predl
- Computational Systems Biology, Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Doctoral School in Microbiology and Environmental Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Plewka
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Katharina Sures
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Franziska Wimmer
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Janey Lee
- DOE Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Panagiotis S Adam
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Julia McGonigle
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Victoria Turzynski
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Indra Banas
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Katrin Schwank
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- University of Regensburg, Biochemistry III, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Mart Krupovic
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR6047, Archaeal Virology Unit, Paris, France
| | - Till L V Bornemann
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Perla Abigail Figueroa-Gonzalez
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jessica Jarett
- DOE Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Rattei
- Computational Systems Biology, Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Doctoral School in Microbiology and Environmental Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yuki Amano
- Nuclear Fuel Cycle Engineering Laboratories, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Tokai, Japan
| | - Ian K Blaby
- DOE Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jan-Fang Cheng
- DOE Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Chase L Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
- Medical faculty, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Woyke
- DOE Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, College of the Environment and Life Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Alexander J Probst
- Environmental Metagenomics, Research Center One Health Ruhr of the University Alliance Ruhr, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
- Group for Aquatic Microbial Ecology, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
- Centre of Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
- Centre of Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
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4
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Trapp W, Heid A, Röder S, Wimmer F, Hajak G. "Mmm, Smells like Coffee!": How a Brief Odor Identification Test Could Help to Identify People with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1052. [PMID: 37508984 PMCID: PMC10377169 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13071052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are still underdiagnosed in the general population. Impaired odor identification has been identified as an early marker of MCI and dementia. We aimed to compare the additional diagnostic value of two odor identification tests to a cognitive screening test in detecting MCI or dementia. (2) Methods: The Sniffin' Sticks odor identification test (SS-OIT), a brief odor identification test (B-OIT) requiring the identification of coffee scent, and the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) were administered to a consecutive series of 174 patients (93 with dementia, 42 with mild cognitive impairment, and 39 without cognitive impairment) referred for neuropsychological testing. (3) Results: Both participants with dementia and with MCI exhibited impairments in odor identification. The SS-OIT and the B-OIT were substantially correlated. Complementing MMSE scores with the SS-OIT or the B-OIT similarly improved the diagnostic accuracy of individuals with dementia and MCI. (4) Conclusions: People with suspected dementia or MCI may already benefit from brief odor identification tests. Although these tests require little additional time, they can notably increase sensitivity for dementia or MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Trapp
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany
- Department of Physiological Psychology, Otto-Friedrich University Bamberg, Markusplatz 3, 96045 Bamberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Heid
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Röder
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany
| | - Franziska Wimmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany
| | - Göran Hajak
- Department of Psychiatry, Sozialstiftung Bamberg, St.-Getreu-Straße 18, 96049 Bamberg, Germany
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5
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Trapp W, Heid A, Röder S, Wimmer F, Hajak G. Cognitive Remediation in Psychiatric Disorders: State of the Evidence, Future Perspectives, and Some Bold Ideas. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12060683. [PMID: 35741569 PMCID: PMC9221116 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12060683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Many people with psychiatric disorders experience impairments in cognition. These deficits have a significant impact on daily functioning and sometimes even on the further course of their disease. Cognitive remediation (CR) is used as an umbrella term for behavioral training interventions to ameliorate these deficits. In most but not all studies, CR has proven effective in improving cognition and enhancing everyday functional outcomes. In this paper, after quickly summarizing the empirical evidence, practical advice to optimize the effects of CR interventions is provided. We advocate that CR interventions should be as fun and motivating as possible, and therapists should at least consider using positively toned emotional stimuli instead of neutral stimuli. Participants should be screened for basic processing deficits, which should be trained before CR of higher-order cognitive domains. CR should stimulate metacognition and utilize natural settings to invoke social cognition. Wherever possible, CR tasks should link to tasks that participants face in their everyday life. Therapists should consider that participants might also benefit from positive side effects on symptomatology. Finally, the CR approach might even be utilized in settings where the treatment of cognitive impairments is not a primary target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Trapp
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Social Foundation Bamberg, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (G.H.)
- Fachhochschule des Mittelstands, Department of Psychology, University of Applied Sciences, 96050 Bamberg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Andreas Heid
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Social Foundation Bamberg, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (G.H.)
| | - Susanne Röder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Social Foundation Bamberg, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (G.H.)
| | - Franziska Wimmer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Social Foundation Bamberg, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (G.H.)
| | - Göran Hajak
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Social Foundation Bamberg, 96049 Bamberg, Germany; (A.H.); (S.R.); (F.W.); (G.H.)
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6
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Wimmer F, Mougiakos I, Englert F, Beisel CL. Rapid cell-free characterization of multi-subunit CRISPR effectors and transposons. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1210-1224.e6. [PMID: 35216669 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas biology and technologies have been largely shaped to date by the characterization and use of single-effector nucleases. By contrast, multi-subunit effectors dominate natural systems, represent emerging technologies, and were recently associated with RNA-guided DNA transposition. This disconnect stems from the challenge of working with multiple protein subunits in vitro and in vivo. Here, we apply cell-free transcription-translation (TXTL) systems to radically accelerate the characterization of multi-subunit CRISPR effectors and transposons. Numerous DNA constructs can be combined in one TXTL reaction, yielding defined biomolecular readouts in hours. Using TXTL, we mined phylogenetically diverse I-E effectors, interrogated extensively self-targeting I-C and I-F systems, and elucidated targeting rules for I-B and I-F CRISPR transposons using only DNA-binding components. We further recapitulated DNA transposition in TXTL, which helped reveal a distinct branch of I-B CRISPR transposons. These capabilities will facilitate the study and exploitation of the broad yet underexplored diversity of CRISPR-Cas systems and transposons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Wimmer
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ioannis Mougiakos
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Frank Englert
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany; Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany.
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7
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Wimmer F, Englert F, Beisel CL. A TXTL-Based Assay to Rapidly Identify PAMs for CRISPR-Cas Systems with Multi-Protein Effector Complexes. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2433:391-411. [PMID: 34985758 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1998-8_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Type I CRISPR-Cas systems represent the most common and diverse type of these prokaryotic defense systems and are being harnessed for a growing set of applications. As these systems rely on multi-protein effector complexes, their characterization remains challenging. Here, we report a rapid and straightforward method to characterize these systems in a cell-free transcription-translation (TXTL) system. A ribonucleoprotein complex is produced and binds to its target next to a recognized PAM, thereby preventing the targeted sequence from being cleaved by a restriction enzyme. Selection for uncleaved targeted plasmids leads to an enrichment of recognized sequences within a PAM library. This assay will aid the exploration of CRISPR-Cas diversity and evolution and help contribute new systems for CRISPR technologies and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Wimmer
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Frank Englert
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany.
- Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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8
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Jiao C, Sharma S, Dugar G, Peeck NL, Bischler T, Wimmer F, Yu Y, Barquist L, Schoen C, Kurzai O, Sharma CM, Beisel CL. Noncanonical crRNAs derived from host transcripts enable multiplexable RNA detection by Cas9. Science 2021; 372:941-948. [PMID: 33906967 PMCID: PMC8224270 DOI: 10.1126/science.abe7106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas systems recognize foreign genetic material using CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs). In type II systems, a trans-activating crRNA (tracrRNA) hybridizes to crRNAs to drive their processing and utilization by Cas9. While analyzing Cas9-RNA complexes from Campylobacter jejuni, we discovered tracrRNA hybridizing to cellular RNAs, leading to formation of "noncanonical" crRNAs capable of guiding DNA targeting by Cas9. Our discovery inspired the engineering of reprogrammed tracrRNAs that link the presence of any RNA of interest to DNA targeting with different Cas9 orthologs. This capability became the basis for a multiplexable diagnostic platform termed LEOPARD (leveraging engineered tracrRNAs and on-target DNAs for parallel RNA detection). LEOPARD allowed simultaneous detection of RNAs from different viruses in one test and distinguished severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its D614G (Asp614→Gly) variant with single-base resolution in patient samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlei Jiao
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)/Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sahil Sharma
- Molecular Infection Biology II, Institute of Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg. 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Gaurav Dugar
- Molecular Infection Biology II, Institute of Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg. 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Natalia L Peeck
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)/Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Bischler
- Core Unit Systems Medicine, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Wimmer
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)/Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Yanying Yu
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)/Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lars Barquist
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)/Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
- Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Schoen
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans-Knoell-Institute, Jena, 07745 Germany
| | - Cynthia M Sharma
- Molecular Infection Biology II, Institute of Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg. 97080 Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI)/Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany.
- Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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9
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Abstract
CRISPR-Cas immune systems in bacteria and archaea record prior infections as spacers within each system’s CRISPR arrays. Spacers are normally derived from invasive genetic material and direct the immune system to complementary targets as part of future infections. However, not all spacers appear to be derived from foreign genetic material and instead can originate from the host genome. Their presence poses a paradox, as self-targeting spacers would be expected to induce an autoimmune response and cell death. In this review, we discuss the known frequency of self-targeting spacers in natural CRISPR-Cas systems, how these spacers can be incorporated into CRISPR arrays, and how the host can evade lethal attack. We also discuss how self-targeting spacers can become the basis for alternative functions performed by CRISPR-Cas systems that extend beyond adaptive immunity. Overall, the acquisition of genome-targeting spacers poses a substantial risk but can aid in the host’s evolution and potentially lead to or support new functionalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Wimmer
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany.,Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Wandera KG, Collins SP, Wimmer F, Marshall R, Noireaux V, Beisel CL. An enhanced assay to characterize anti-CRISPR proteins using a cell-free transcription-translation system. Methods 2019; 172:42-50. [PMID: 31121300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The characterization of CRISPR-Cas immune systems in bacteria was quickly followed by the discovery of anti-CRISPR proteins (Acrs) in bacteriophages. These proteins block different steps of CRISPR-based immunity and, as some inhibit Cas nucleases, can offer tight control over CRISPR technologies. While Acrs have been identified against a few CRISPR-Cas systems, likely many more await discovery and application. Here, we report a rapid and scalable method for characterizing putative Acrs against Cas nucleases using an E. coli-derived cell-free transcription-translation system. Using known Acrs against type II Cas9 nucleases as models, we demonstrate how the method can be used to measure the inhibitory activity of individual Acrs in under two days. We also show how the method can overcome non-specific inhibition of gene expression observed for some Acrs. In total, the method should accelerate the interrogation and application of Acrs as CRISPR-Cas inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina G Wandera
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Scott P Collins
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Franziska Wimmer
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ryan Marshall
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Vincent Noireaux
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Chase L Beisel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States; Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI), 97080 Würzburg, Germany; Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany.
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Schmid M, Lenauer C, Buchsbaum A, Wimmer F, Rauchbauer G, Scheiber P, Betz G, Varga P. High island densities in pulsed laser deposition: causes and implications. Phys Rev Lett 2009; 103:076101. [PMID: 19792662 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.103.076101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
By studying metal growth on Pt(111), we determine the reasons for the high island densities observed in pulsed laser deposition (PLD) compared to conventional thermal deposition. For homoepitaxy by PLD with moderate energies ( < or approximately 100 eV) of the deposited ions, high island densities are caused by the high instantaneous flux of arriving particles. Additional nuclei are formed at high ion energies (> or approximately 200 eV) by adatoms created by the impinging ions. For heteroepitaxy, the island density is also increased by intermixing (deposited material implanted in the surface), creating an inhomogeneous potential energy surface for diffusing atoms. We discuss implications for layer-by-layer growth and sputter deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Schmid
- Institut für Allgemeine Physik, Technische Universität Wien, Wien 1040, Austria
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Hell M, Wimmer F, Lenzhofer R, Pauser G, Zimmermann A, Mittermayer H. R2236 First fatal infection due to c-MRSA in Austria. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-8579(07)72075-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Butour JL, Wimmer S, Wimmer F, Castan P. Palladium(II) compounds with potential antitumour properties and their platinum analogues: a comparative study of the reaction of some orotic acid derivatives with DNA in vitro. Chem Biol Interact 1997; 104:165-78. [PMID: 9212782 DOI: 10.1016/s0009-2797(97)00022-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Ethidium bromide was used to study perturbations induced in salmon sperm DNA complexed with a series of platinum and palladium compounds obtained from chloro and orotic acid derivatives as leaving ligands. The antitumoral activity of these compounds against Sarcoma 180 cells grafted intraperitoneally into mice is correlated with their capacity to interact with DNA in vitro and to perturb its secondary structure. Nevertheless, among these compounds, [Pt(Dach)(3-methyl-orot)] and [Pt(Dach)(5-fluoro-orot)] do not interact with DNA in vitro and are inactive against Sarcoma 180 cells. This lack of activity originates from the fact that strong chelating properties of the ligand prevent hydrolysis of the compounds which are unable to give rise to aquo species which are the reactive ones. On the other hand, the interaction with DNA is not the only prerequisite in order that a compound be active towards tumour cells. In fact, cis-[Pd(NH3)2Cl2] and cis[Pd(Dach)Cl2] are not antitumoral. It is well known that the former undergoes an inactive trans-conformation and that the two compounds hydrolyse very fast assuming that they interact in vivo with a lot of molecules particularly proteins preventing them to reach the DNA, their pharmacological target. By contrast, [Pd(Dach)(3-methyl-orot)] (T/C = 267%) and [Pd(Dach)(5-fluoro-orot)] (T/C = 270%) display significant antitumour activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Butour
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale du CNRS, Toulouse, France
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Abstract
Twelve male undergraduate students were deprived of sleep for one night and were tested with a series of cognitive tasks. Their performance was compared to the performance of thirteen control subjects. Two hourly tasks and three occasional tasks were administered in order to examine cognitive performance following sleep loss. In an attempt to replicate the findings of Horne (1988a), the figural form of the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking was administered. To explore the effects of short-term sleep deprivation on attention, the following tasks were also administered: a working memory task, a trail-making task, a vowel/consonant discrimination task, and a letter recognition task. Results of the Torrance test, trail-making task and letter recognition task revealed decreases in cognitive abilities following sleep loss, although all tasks required less than 10 minutes to administer. The results of this study suggest that cognitive measures following sleep deprivation have not been adequately explored. Results support the hypothesis that sleep serves a function of cognitive restitution, particularly in the maintenance of attentional mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Wimmer
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
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15
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Razaka H, Wimmer F, Wimmer S, Villani G, Johnson NP. Toxicity, mutagenicity, intracellular drug concentration and DNA binding in Escherichia coli treated with cis-platinum(II) complexes. Chem Biol Interact 1987; 61:265-75. [PMID: 3552271 DOI: 10.1016/0009-2797(87)90006-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The genotoxic effects of six cis-platinum(II)chloramine complexes with different alkyl substituents on their amine ligands have been measured using Escherichia coli. The toxicity and mutagenicity of these compounds were compared, after exposure of bacteria, to drug concentrations which gave known quantities of platinum-DNA lesions. The results permit several observations concerning structure-activity relations of platinum(II) complexes. Firstly, methyl substitution on the amine ligands of cis-diamminedichloro-platinum(II) (DDP) is reported to reduce its antitumor activity. The methyl group did not exert an effect in bacteria where the toxicity and mutagenicity of cis-bis(methylamine)dichloroplatinum(II) and DDP were equivalent. In fact, at equal levels of DNA binding, complexes with substituted amines were generally more toxic toward bacteria than DDP. Secondly, replacement of the chloro groups of DDP by nitrato ligands increased its toxicity and mutagenicity at a given level of DNA binding. Hence, although DDP and its dinitrato derivative have identical ammine ligands, they may form different platinum-DNA lesions in bacteria. Finally, cis-bis(cyclohexylamine)-dichloroplatinum(II) was unique among the compounds studied since it did not cause bacterial filamentation or mutagenesis. These results suggest that, although this compound binds to the bacterial genome, it may not induce the SOS response.
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Wimmer F. It's housekeeping employee appreciation day! Every day. Prof Sanit Manage 1981; 13:23-4. [PMID: 10253648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
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