Work

Multiplex CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing for correction of dystrophin mutations that cause Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Year: 2015

Type: article

Abstract: The CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing platform is a promising technology to correct the genetic basis of hereditary diseases. The versatility, efficiency and multiplexing capabilities of the CRISPR/Cas9 system enable a variety of otherwise challenging gene correction strategies. Here, we use the CRISPR/Cas9 system to restore the expression of the dystrophin gene in cells carrying dystrophin mutations that cause Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We design single or multiplexed sgRNAs to restore the dystrophin reading frame by targeting the mutational hotspot at exons 45–55 and introducing shifts within exons or deleting one or more exons. Following gene editing in DMD patient myoblasts, dystrophin expression is restored in vitro. Human dystrophin is also detected in vivo after transplantation of genetically corrected patient cells into immunodeficient mice. Importantly, the unique multiplex gene-editing capabilities of the CRISPR/Cas9 system facilitate the generation of a single large deletion that can correct up to 62% of DMD mutations. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. Here, Ousterout et al. use multiplexed CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to excise a large portion of the gene that carries over 60% of known dystrophin mutations. They show that this excision restores dystrophin expression in patient-derived cells.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7244

Authors: David G. Ousterout, Ami M. Kabadi, Pratiksha I. Thakore, William H. Majoros, Timothy E. Reddy, Charles A. Gersbach

Institutions: Duke University, Duke Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: CRISPR and Genetic Engineering

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,990