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At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Establishment of a system for conditional gene expression using an inducible tRNA suppressor gene.

We investigated the use of the prokaryotic tetracycline operator-repressor system as a regulatory device to control the expression of Dictyostelium discoideum tRNA genes. The tetO1 operator fragment was inserted at three different positions in front of a tRNA(Glu) (Am) suppressor gene from D. discoideum, and the tetracycline repressor gene was expressed under the control of a constitutive actin 6 promoter. The effectiveness of this approach was determined by monitoring the expression of a beta-galactosidase gene engineered to contain a stop codon that could be suppressed by the tRNA. When these constructs were introduced into Dictyostelium cells, the repressor bound to the operator in front of the tRNA gene and prevented expression of the suppressor tRNA. Addition of tetracycline (30 micrograms/ml) to the growth medium prevented repressor binding, allowed expression of the suppressor tRNA, and resulted in beta-galactosidase synthesis. The operator-repressor complex interfered with tRNA gene transcription when the operator was inserted immediately upstream (position +1 or -7) of the mature tRNA coding region. Expression of a tRNA gene carrying the operator at position -46 did not respond to repressor binding. This system could be used to control the synthesis of any protein, provided the gene contained a translational stop signal.

Animals

Feedback regulation of rRNA and tRNA synthesis and accumulation of free ribosomes after conditional expression of rRNA genes.

We have constructed a conditional rRNA gene expression system by fusing a plasmid-encoded rrnB operon to the lambda PL promoter/operator. It was thereby possible to study the events that lead to the regulation of chromosomal rRNA and tRNA synthesis after overproduction of rRNA. rRNA induction resulted in a 2-fold increase in 30S and 50S free ribosomal subunits, whereas the polysome fraction was unaffected. Overproduction of rRNA and "free" ribosomes produced a large repression of rRNA and tRNA synthesis from chromosomal genes and a smaller increase in the concentration of guanosine tetraphosphate. These results lend support to the ribosome feedback regulation model: rRNA and tRNA operons are negatively regulated, either directly or through some intermediate, by free, nontranslating ribosomes.

Bacteriophage lambda

Development of enzymic zonation in liver parenchyma is related to development of acinar architecture.

The appearance of the distribution patterns of the NH3-metabolizing enzymes carbamoylphosphate synthetase, glutamate dehydrogenase, and glutamine synthetase in the developing liver of an altricial species (rat) was compared with that in the developing liver of a closely related, precocial species (spiny mouse). The comparison showed that the development of hepatic acinar architecture, rather than perinatal adaptation, is responsible for the development of periportal and pericentral compartments of gene expression. Conditions that confine the expression of specific enzymes to the pericentral compartment of the acinus originate before conditions that confine the expression of (other) specific enzymes to the periportal compartment. However, whether or not the site of gene expression is restricted to specific compartments within the liver acinus, the rate of expression of the gene involved can also be adaptively regulated. Therefore, different factors appear to control the site and the rate of gene expression within one tissue.

Aging

Molecular methods for environmental monitoring and containment of genetically engineered microorganisms.

Plans to introduce genetically engineered microorganisms into the environment has led to concerns over safety and has raised questions about how to detect and to contain such microorganisms. Specific gene sequences, such as lacZ, have been inserted into genetically engineered microorganisms to permit their phenotypic detection. Molecular methods have been developed based upon recovery of DNA from environmental samples and gene probe hybridization to specific diagnostic gene sequences for the specific detection of genetically engineered microorganisms. DNA amplification using the polymerase chain reaction has been applied to enhance detection sensitivity so that single gene targets can be detected. Detection of messenger RNA has permitted the monitoring of gene expression in the environment. The use of reporter genes, such as the lux gene for bioluminescence, likewise has permitted the observation of gene expression. Conditional lethal constructs have been developed as models for containment of genetically engineered microorganisms. Suicide vectors, based upon the hok gene have been developed as model containment systems.

Bacteria

Expression of T4 early genes 62, 44, 45 and 46 in the lambda-T4 recombinant phage lambda 806-17.

A lambda-T4 recombinant phage, lambda 806-17, which carries the T4 early genes 62, 44, 45 and 46, was studied inside a homoimmune lysogen. Under such conditions, gene expression from the lambda promoters is represented. Results showed extensive expression of gene 46, and significant expression of genes 62 and 45. The expression of these early T4 genes is presumed to depend on T4 promoters included in the cloned fragment. A new promoter proximal to gene 46 is implicated. The results also indicate that the extent of gene expression, in terms of complementation, increases with the time allowed for expression.

Escherichia coli

Engineering Protein Stability with Small Molecules: A Review of the ecDHFR Destabilizing Domain System.

The E. coli dihydrofolate reductase (ecDHFR) destabilizing domain (DD) is a versatile post-translational tool for the conditional control of protein stability via ligand-induced stabilization. In this system, a DD-tagged protein is rapidly degraded by the proteasome unless stabilized by the antibiotic trimethoprim (TMP), allowing for conditional control of protein abundance. The ecDHFR-DD system has been successfully applied across diverse biological systems, including yeast, invertebrate models such as Drosophila, and mammalian cells, to study a broad spectrum of cellular and developmental processes. Compared with DNA- and RNA-based regulatory approaches, post-translational systems offer faster response times and more precise control, making them valuable for processes that require tight, reversible regulation. In this review, we synthesize current knowledge on the mechanisms, performance, and optimization of the ecDHFR-DD system across organisms and evaluate its advantages and limitations relative to most conditional gene expression systems. We also highlight emerging opportunities for applying the system across diverse areas, ranging from functional genomics and synthetic biology to biomedical research. Additionally, we discuss its potential application in applied biological systems, such as pest and vector management, positioning the ecDHFR-DD system as a broadly applicable platform for the precise and tunable control of protein function across diverse disciplines.

Tetrahydrofolate Dehydrogenase

Conditional expression of foreign genes by temperature-sensitive mutants of vaccinia virus.

To assess the utility of two temperature-sensitive (ts) mutant vaccinia viruses as vectors for the conditional in vitro expression of recombinant foreign genes, we have studied the kinetics of expression of foreign genes incorporated into these viruses. At nonpermissive temperature, 40 degrees C, these viruses were defective either in DNA synthesis or in virus assembly. Foreign gene expression was affected by the nature of the ts lesion and by the nature of the vaccinia promoter positioned upstream from the foreign gene. With both vector viruses, a foreign gene controlled by the p7.5 early-late promoter was expressed at both 33 degrees and 40 degrees C. With the DNA synthesis-defective vector virus, foreign gene expression controlled by the p11 DNA synthesis-dependent late promoter was inhibited at 40 degrees C, but could be turned on by shift to 33 degrees C. This ts expression system provides an alternative to use of drugs that inhibit DNA synthesis as a means for experimental manipulation of gene expression. Both vector viruses can be used with existing vaccinia virus expression technology.

DNA, Recombinant

Rapid and selective alterations in the expression of cellular genes accompany conditional transcription of Ha-v-ras in NIH 3T3 cells.

Hormone treatment of NIH 3T3 cells that contain recombinant fusions between the mouse mammary virus long terminal repeat and the v-ras gene of Harvey murine sarcoma virus results in conditional expression of the ras p21 gene product. Levels of ras mRNA and p21 are maximal after 2 to 4 h of hormone treatment. Analysis of cellular RNA by Northern blotting and nuclease S1 protection assays indicates that the expression of two cellular RNA species increases with kinetics similar to v-ras: v-sis-related RNA and retrovirus-related VL30 RNA. Run-on transcription in isolated nuclei shows that the increase in v-sis-related RNA is not dependent on transcription and therefore must arise by a post-transcriptional mechanism. The increase in VL30 expression is a transcriptional effect. Hormone treatment of normal NIH 3T3 cells has no effect on the expression of these DNA sequences. These results suggest that v-ras stimulation of autocrine factors may play a role in transformation of cells by this gene and also suggest a reverse genetic strategy to determine the nucleic acid sequences and cellular factors involved in the regulation of gene expression that is observed.

Animals

PoweREST: Statistical power estimation for spatial transcriptomics experiments to detect differentially expressed genes between two conditions.

Recent advancements in spatial transcriptomics (ST) have significantly enhanced biological research in various domains. However, the high cost for current ST data generation techniques restricts the large-scale application of ST. Consequently, maximization of the use of available resources to achieve robust statistical power for ST data is a pressing need. One fundamental question in ST analysis is detection of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under different conditions using ST data. Such DEG analyses are performed frequently, but their power calculations are rarely discussed in the literature. To address this gap, we developed PoweREST, a power estimation tool designed to support the power calculation for DEG detection with 10X Genomics Visium data. PoweREST enables power estimation both before any ST experiments and after preliminary data are collected, making it suitable for a wide variety of power analyses in ST studies. We also provide a user-friendly, program-free web application that allows users to interactively calculate and visualize study power along with relevant parameters.

Gene Expression Profiling

PoweREST: Statistical Power Estimation for Spatial Transcriptomics Experiments to Detect Differentially Expressed Genes Between Two Conditions.

Recent advancements in Spatial Transcriptomics (ST) have significantly enhanced biological research in various domains. However, the high cost of current ST data generation techniques restricts its application in large-scale population studies. Consequently, there is a pressing need to maximize the use of available resources to achieve robust statistical power. One fundamental question in ST analysis is to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among different conditions using ST data. Such DEG analysis is often performed but the associated power calculation is rarely discussed in the literature. To address this gap, we introduce, PoweREST (https://github.com/lanshui98/PoweREST), a power estimation tool designed to support power calculation of DEG detection with 10X Genomics Visium data. PoweREST enables power estimation both before any ST experiments or after preliminary data are collected, making it suitable for a wide variety of power analyses in ST studies. We also provide a user-friendly, program-free web application (https://lanshui.shinyapps.io/PoweREST/), allowing users to interactively calculate and visualize the study power along with relevant the parameters.

Differentially expressed genes

Regulation of integrin gene expression by substrate adherence.

Under substrate adherent conditions, integrin gene expression can be regulated by transforming growth factor-beta, interleukin-1 beta, and prostaglandins. This report demonstrates a new mechanism that can differentially control the expression of several integrins. When MG-63 osteosarcoma cells are maintained in suspension, up-regulation of several integrin alpha-subunits takes place. Within as little as 4 h, the mRNA levels for both the alpha 2- and alpha 4-subunits are increased 4- and 6-fold, respectively. It was found that mRNA levels for the alpha 2-, alpha 4-, and alpha v-subunits were markedly increased in several differentiated cell lines under nonadherent conditions; however, cells that did not express a given integrin under substrate adherent conditions also did not express this integrin when maintained in suspension. The alpha 5-subunit did not upregulate during suspension growth. By immunocytochemistry, changes in integrin mRNA levels were confirmed at the protein level. Both cytochalasin B and a phorbol ester were found to induce the expression of the alpha 2-subunit, but not the alpha 4- and alpha 5-subunits, in a dose-dependent fashion. Many investigators have documented changes in gene expression that result from changes in "cell shape." These phenomena may result from up-regulation of integrin gene expression induced by the lack of substrate adherence.

Base Sequence

The conditional inhibition of gene expression in cultured Drosophila cells by antisense RNA.

Genes producing antisense RNA are becoming important tools for the selective inhibition of gene expression. Experiments in different biological systems, targeting different mRNAs have yielded diverse results with respect to the success of the technique and its mechanism of action. We have examined the potential of three antisense genes, whose transcription is driven by a Drosophila metallothionein promoter, to inhibit the expression of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) or a microtubule associated protein (205K MAP) in cultured Drosophila cells. Expression of ADH was significantly reduced upon induction of the anti-ADH genes. The ADH mRNA does not appear to be destabilized by the presence of antisense RNA but rather exists at similar levels in hybrid form. Hybrids are detected with both spliced and unspliced ADH RNA. In contrast to these results, antisense genes producing antisense RNA in great excess to 205K MAP mRNA, which is itself far less abundant than the ADH mRNA, failed to show any inhibition of 205K MAP expression.

Alcohol Dehydrogenase

Effect of culture conditions on PLP and MAG gene expression in rat glioma C6 cells.

The effects of culture conditions on the expression of myelin-specific genes, i.e. proteolipid protein (PLP) and myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) in rat glioma C6 cells was studied. Early passage (40-46) cells had higher steady-state level of PLP- and MAG-specific mRNA than late (100) passage cells when grown in defined (serum-free) medium. The PLP gene expression was increased whereas the MAG gene expression was reduced in the presence of 10% fetal calf serum in either passage. The level of both PLP- and MAG-specific messages was also directly related to the cell density indicating cell contact-induced stimulation of the gene expression. Furthermore, the cells apparently secrete factors into the medium, which upregulate the gene expression in autocrine fashion. The results also indicate a dissimilarity of regulatory mechanisms involved in the expression of the PLP and MAG genes.

Animals

A yeast protein with homology to the beta-subunit of G proteins is involved in control of heme-regulated and catabolite-repressed genes.

The product of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae AER2 gene is responsible for maintaining repression of at least two distinct regulatory pathways: heme activation/repression and catabolite repression. Mutations in the gene caused an eightfold increase in the expression of the heme-activated CYC1 gene in the absence of heme, a substantial increase in the expression of the heme-repressed ANB1 gene in the presence of heme, and a 13-fold increase in the expression of the catabolite-repressed GAL1 gene in the presence of glucose. Lesser or no increases in the expression of these genes were observed under derepressed or activation conditions. The aer2 mutations also caused a large increase in CYC7 gene expression under all conditions; this gene is subject to heme activation/repression, as well as catabolite repression. The AER2 gene was cloned and the sequence determined. The large open reading frame contiguous with the transcript from the complementing region encoded a 713-amino acid polypeptide chain with extensive homology to the beta-subunit of G proteins. The sequence revealed that AER2 is the TUP1 gene. A deletion mutation was constructed and the null phenotype was the same as the original mutants. The aer2 null mutant was shown to have increased aerobic and anaerobic levels of RNA encoding the ROX1 repressor, normally expressed only aerobically and responsible for the aerobic repression of ANB1 expression. The increase in both ROX1 and ANB1 RNAs aerobically in this mutant suggests that the repressor is nonfunctional in the mutant.

Amino Acid Sequence

The msf gene causes condition-specific shifts in global gene expression in Haemophilus influenzae.

UNLABELLED: Haemophilus influenzae is a diverse human-restricted bacterium that normally colonizes the healthy nasopharynx but also causes common infections. Comparisons of clinical isolate genomes previously identified a gene, msf, that contained Sel1-like repeats that were associated with clinical disease. Mutant analysis had further found that msf improved survival in macrophages and increased systemic infection in an animal model. However, the role of msf in other conditions and its molecular function remain unknown. To identify protein-protein interactions with Msf, a yeast two-hybrid screen against an H. influenzae prey library was conducted, which found potential interactions with lipoprotein exporter protein LolD and an autotransporter adhesin Hap. To identify effects of msf on gene expression, we compared wild-type and mutant strains grown in multiple culture conditions by RNA-seq. The results indicate that msf modulates global gene expression in a condition-dependent manner, exerting an especially strong influence in starved surface-attached biofilm cells. The few consistent changes in mutants' planktonic exponential and stationary phases included decreased expression of two paralogous autotransporter adhesins. By contrast, mutant cells in starved surface-attached biofilms had dramatic changes in expression, including upregulation of protein translation and downregulation of alternative carbon metabolism. However, assays of 24 hour biofilm phenotypes found only subtle gene expression changes. Together, the results point to a speculative model of Msf functioning as an envelope-associated chaperone whose presence affects the relative expression of proteins at the outer membrane. IMPORTANCE: Comparing genomes from different clinical isolates of the same pathogenic bacterial species has identified genes associated with virulence, but many of these are understudied or have no known function. The msf gene was previously implicated as a virulence factor in Haemophilus influenzae, a common cause of mucosal diseases including middle-ear and chronic lung infections. This study finds that the msf gene causes condition-specific changes in gene expression, with especially dramatic changes in starved surface-attached biofilm cells. Along with identification of putative protein-protein interaction partners, the results provide new clues as to the molecular and cellular function of Msf, potentially as an envelope-associated chaperone involved in membrane protein trafficking. Understanding how virulence-associated genes like msf modulate bacterial responses to the environment may help explain why some bacterial strains remain harmless colonizers while others become pathogens.

Haemophilus influenzae

Ablation of Drosophila photoreceptor cells by conditional expression of a toxin gene.

We have used toxin-mediated ablation to study some aspects of visual system development in Drosophila melanogaster. To devise a method that permits the conditional expression of a cellular toxin, we introduced an amber mutation into the diphtheria toxin-A-chain gene. In transgenic animals, this toxin gene can be activated by providing the gene for an amber suppressor tRNA. By coupling this toxin gene to the photoreceptor cell-specific promoter of the chaoptic gene, photoreceptor cells could be specifically ablated during development. Photoreceptor cell-specific markers normally activated during pupal development failed to appear after midpupation. Photoreceptor cells were absent from the retinas of adult flies at eclosion. We have assessed the consequences of photoreceptor cell ablation for eye and optic lobe development. We suggest that the larval photoreceptor nerve is not essential, in the late larval stages, for retinula photoreceptor cell axons to achieve their proper projection pattern in the brain. Moreover, while retinula photoreceptor innervation is initially required for the development of normal optic ganglia, the ablation of these cells in midpupation has no discernible effect. This approach to cell-specific ablation should be generally applicable to the study of cellular functions in development and behavior.

Animals