1
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Zhang C, Wang Y, Peng J, Wen X, Zhang Y, Li K, Du H, Hu X. Decoding trends in mRNA vaccine research: A comprehensive bibliometric study. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2355037. [PMID: 38813652 PMCID: PMC11141478 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2355037] [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: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, infectious diseases like COVID-19 have had profound global socio-economic impacts. mRNA vaccines have gained prominence due to their rapid development, industrial adaptability, simplicity, and responsiveness to new variants. Notably, the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine recognized significant contributions to mRNA vaccine research. METHODS Our study employed a comprehensive bibliometric analysis using the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database, encompassing 5,512 papers on mRNA vaccines from 2003 to 2023. We generated cooperation maps, co-citation analyses, and keyword clustering to evaluate the field's developmental history and achievements. RESULTS The analysis yielded knowledge maps highlighting countries/institutions, influential authors, frequently published and highly cited journals, and seminal references. Ongoing research hotspots encompass immune responses, stability enhancement, applications in cancer prevention and treatment, and combating infectious diseases using mRNA technology. CONCLUSIONS mRNA vaccines represent a transformative development in infectious disease prevention. This study provides insights into the field's growth and identifies key research priorities, facilitating advancements in vaccine technology and addressing future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaobin Zhang
- Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yuhang Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianding Peng
- School of Basic Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotian Wen
- School of Basic Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Youwen Zhang
- School of Law, City University of Hongkong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kejun Li
- Department of Library, Chongqing Vocational Institute of Engineering, Chongqing, China
| | - Hanjian Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Research Center for Glioma Precision Medicine, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaofei Hu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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2
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Yao R, Xie C, Xia X. Recent progress in mRNA cancer vaccines. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2307187. [PMID: 38282471 PMCID: PMC10826636 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2307187] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The research and development of messenger RNA (mRNA) cancer vaccines have gradually overcome numerous challenges through the application of personalized cancer antigens, structural optimization of mRNA, and the development of alternative RNA-based vectors and efficient targeted delivery vectors. Clinical trials are currently underway for various cancer vaccines that encode tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), tumor-specific antigens (TSAs), or immunomodulators. In this paper, we summarize the optimization of mRNA and the emergence of RNA-based expression vectors in cancer vaccines. We begin by reviewing the advancement and utilization of state-of-the-art targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), followed by presenting the primary classifications and clinical applications of mRNA cancer vaccines. Collectively, mRNA vaccines are emerging as a central focus in cancer immunotherapy, offering the potential to address multiple challenges in cancer treatment, either as standalone therapies or in combination with current cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhui Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunyuan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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3
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Liu J, Sun J, Ding X, Liu W, Wang Y, Wang Z, Peng H, Zhang Y, Su W, Jiang C. A nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine forming rabies virus-like particle elicits strong cellular and humoral immune responses against rabies virus infection in mice. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2389115. [PMID: 39129566 PMCID: PMC11328811 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2389115] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Rabies is a lethal zoonotic disease that threatens human health. As the only viral surface protein, the rabies virus (RABV) glycoprotein (G) induces main neutralizing antibody (Nab) responses; however, Nab titre is closely correlated with the conformation of G. Virus-like particles (VLP) formed by the co-expression of RABV G and matrix protein (M) improve retention and antigen presentation, inducing broad, durable immune responses. RABV nucleoprotein (N) can elicit humoral and cellular immune responses. Hence, we developed a series of nucleoside-modified RABV mRNA vaccines encoding wild-type G, soluble trimeric RABV G formed by an artificial trimer motif (tG-MTQ), membrane-anchored prefusion-stabilized G (preG). Furthermore, we also developed RABV VLP mRNA vaccine co-expressing preG and M to generate VLPs, and VLP/N mRNA vaccine co-expressing preG, M, and N. The RABV mRNA vaccines induced higher humoral and cellular responses than inactivated rabies vaccine, and completely protected mice against intracerebral challenge. Additionally, the IgG and Nab titres in RABV preG, VLP and VLP/N mRNA groups were significantly higher than those in G and tG-MTQ groups. A single administration of VLP or VLP/N mRNA vaccines elicited protective Nab responses, the Nab titres were significantly higher than that in inactivated rabies vaccine group at day 7. Moreover, RABV VLP and VLP/N mRNA vaccines showed superior capacities to elicit potent germinal centre, long-lived plasma cell and memory B cell responses, which linked to high titre and durable Nab responses. In summary, our data demonstrated that RABV VLP and VLP/N mRNA vaccines could be promising candidates against rabies.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Rabies Vaccines/immunology
- Rabies Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Rabies Vaccines/genetics
- Rabies/prevention & control
- Rabies/immunology
- Rabies virus/immunology
- Rabies virus/genetics
- Mice
- Immunity, Humoral
- Antibodies, Viral/blood
- Antibodies, Viral/immunology
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood
- Immunity, Cellular
- Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/immunology
- Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/genetics
- Female
- mRNA Vaccines/immunology
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Nucleosides/immunology
- Glycoproteins/immunology
- Glycoproteins/genetics
- Humans
- Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
- Vaccines, Synthetic/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Synthetic/genetics
- Viral Matrix Proteins/immunology
- Viral Matrix Proteins/genetics
- Antigens, Viral/immunology
- Antigens, Viral/genetics
- Viral Envelope Proteins/immunology
- Viral Envelope Proteins/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Sun
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Ding
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhao Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Yipeng Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Zihan Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanyu Peng
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiheng Su
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunlai Jiang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China
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4
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Troncoso-Bravo T, Ramírez MA, Loaiza RA, Román-Cárdenas C, Papazisis G, Garrido D, González PA, Bueno SM, Kalergis AM. Advancement in the development of mRNA-based vaccines for respiratory viruses. Immunology 2024; 173:481-496. [PMID: 39161170 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory infections are the leading cause of death and illness in children under 5 years old and represent a significant burden in older adults. Primarily caused by viruses infecting the lower respiratory tract, symptoms include cough, congestion, and low-grade fever, potentially leading to bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)-based vaccines are biopharmaceutical formulations that employ mRNA molecules to induce specific immune responses, facilitating the expression of viral or bacterial antigens and promoting immunization against infectious diseases. Notably, this technology had significant relevance during the COVID-19 pandemic, as these formulations helped to limit SARS-CoV-2 virus infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. Importantly, mRNA vaccines promise to be implemented as new alternatives for fighting other respiratory viruses, such as influenza, human respiratory syncytial virus, and human metapneumovirus. This review article analyzes mRNA-based vaccines' main contributions, perspectives, challenges, and implications against respiratory viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tays Troncoso-Bravo
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Bioprocesos, Facultad de Ingeniería, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mario A Ramírez
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ricardo A Loaiza
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Román-Cárdenas
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Georgios Papazisis
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Clinical Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (SUBRE), School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Daniel Garrido
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Bioprocesos, Facultad de Ingeniería, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo A González
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Susan M Bueno
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexis M Kalergis
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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5
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Pardi N, Krammer F. mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases - advances, challenges and opportunities. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024:10.1038/s41573-024-01042-y. [PMID: 39367276 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-01042-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
The concept of mRNA-based vaccines emerged more than three decades ago. Groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements over the past 20 years have resolved the major roadblocks that initially delayed application of this new vaccine modality. The rapid development of nucleoside-modified COVID-19 mRNA vaccines demonstrated that this immunization platform is easy to develop, has an acceptable safety profile and can be produced at a large scale. The flexibility and ease of antigen design have enabled mRNA vaccines to enter development for a wide range of viruses as well as for various bacteria and parasites. However, gaps in our knowledge limit the development of next-generation mRNA vaccines with increased potency and safety. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms of action of mRNA vaccines, application of novel technologies enabling rational antigen design, and innovative vaccine delivery strategies and vaccination regimens will likely yield potent novel vaccines against a wide range of pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Pardi
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Florian Krammer
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Center for Vaccine Research and Pandemic Preparedness (C-VaRPP), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Ignaz Semmelweis Institute, Interuniversity Institute for Infection Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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6
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Karimi-Sani I, Molavi Z, Naderi S, Mirmajidi SH, Zare I, Naeimzadeh Y, Mansouri A, Tajbakhsh A, Savardashtaki A, Sahebkar A. Personalized mRNA vaccines in glioblastoma therapy: from rational design to clinical trials. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:601. [PMID: 39367418 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02882-x] [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: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastomas (GBMs) are the most common and aggressive malignant brain tumors, presenting significant challenges for treatment due to their invasive nature and localization in critical brain regions. Standard treatment includes surgical resection followed by radiation and adjuvant chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ). Recent advances in immunotherapy, including the use of mRNA vaccines, offer promising alternatives. This review focuses on the emerging use of mRNA vaccines for GBM treatment. We summarize recent advancements, evaluate current obstacles, and discuss notable successes in this field. Our analysis highlights that while mRNA vaccines have shown potential, their use in GBM treatment is still experimental. Ongoing research and clinical trials are essential to fully understand their therapeutic potential. Future developments in mRNA vaccine technology and insights into GBM-specific immune responses may lead to more targeted and effective treatments. Despite the promise, further research is crucial to validate and optimize the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines in combating GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Karimi-Sani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Molavi
- Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Naderi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyedeh-Habibeh Mirmajidi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Iman Zare
- Research and Development Department, Sina Medical Biochemistry Technologies Co. Ltd., Shiraz, 7178795844, Iran
| | - Yasaman Naeimzadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Atena Mansouri
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Amir Tajbakhsh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Savardashtaki
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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7
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Song Y, Li J, Wu Y. Evolving understanding of autoimmune mechanisms and new therapeutic strategies of autoimmune disorders. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:263. [PMID: 39362875 PMCID: PMC11452214 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01952-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune disorders are characterized by aberrant T cell and B cell reactivity to the body's own components, resulting in tissue destruction and organ dysfunction. Autoimmune diseases affect a wide range of people in many parts of the world and have become one of the major concerns in public health. In recent years, there have been substantial progress in our understanding of the epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis and mechanisms of autoimmune diseases. Current approved therapeutic interventions for autoimmune diseases are mainly non-specific immunomodulators and may cause broad immunosuppression that leads to serious adverse effects. To overcome the limitations of immunosuppressive drugs in treating autoimmune diseases, precise and target-specific strategies are urgently needed. To date, significant advances have been made in our understanding of the mechanisms of immune tolerance, offering a new avenue for developing antigen-specific immunotherapies for autoimmune diseases. These antigen-specific approaches have shown great potential in various preclinical animal models and recently been evaluated in clinical trials. This review describes the common epidemiology, clinical manifestation and mechanisms of autoimmune diseases, with a focus on typical autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and sjögren's syndrome. We discuss the current therapeutics developed in this field, highlight the recent advances in the use of nanomaterials and mRNA vaccine techniques to induce antigen-specific immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Song
- Institute of Immunology, PLA, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Li
- Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China.
| | - Yuzhang Wu
- Institute of Immunology, PLA, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China.
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8
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Lokras AG, Bobak TR, Baghel SS, Sebastiani F, Foged C. Advances in the design and delivery of RNA vaccines for infectious diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 213:115419. [PMID: 39111358 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115419] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
RNA medicines represent a paradigm shift in treatment and prevention of critical diseases of global significance, e.g., infectious diseases. The highly successful messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) were developed at record speed during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. A consequence of this is exceptionally shortened vaccine development times, which in combination with adaptability makes the RNA vaccine technology highly attractive against infectious diseases and for pandemic preparedness. Here, we review state of the art in the design and delivery of RNA vaccines for infectious diseases based on different RNA modalities, including linear mRNA, self-amplifying RNA, trans-amplifying RNA, and circular RNA. We provide an overview of the clinical pipeline of RNA vaccines for infectious diseases, and present analytical procedures, which are paramount for characterizing quality attributes and guaranteeing their quality, and we discuss future perspectives for using RNA vaccines to combat pathogens beyond SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijeet Girish Lokras
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Thomas Rønnemoes Bobak
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Saahil Sandeep Baghel
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Federica Sebastiani
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; Division of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Lund University, 22100, Lund, Sweden
| | - Camilla Foged
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
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9
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Cai J, Chen S, Liu Z, Li H, Wang P, Yang F, Li Y, Chen K, Sun M, Qiu M. RNA technology and nanocarriers empowering in vivo chimeric antigen receptor therapy. Immunology 2024. [PMID: 39340367 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The remarkable success of mRNA-based coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines has propelled the advancement of nanomedicine, specifically in the realm of RNA technology and nanomaterial delivery systems. Notably, significant strides have been made in the development of RNA-based in vivo chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapy. In comparison to the conventional ex vivo CAR therapy, in vivo CAR therapy offers several benefits including simplified preparation, reduced costs, broad applicability and decreased potential for carcinogenic effects. This review summarises the RNA-based CAR constructs in in vivo CAR therapy, discusses the current applications of in vivo delivery vectors and outlines the immune cells edited with CAR molecules. We aim for the conveyed messages to contribute towards the advancement of in vivo CAR application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingsheng Cai
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoyi Chen
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Liu
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoran Li
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Peiyu Wang
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Yang
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Li
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Kezhong Chen
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Sun
- Department of Oncology Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Mantang Qiu
- Thoracic Oncology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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10
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Shi Y, Mao J, Wang S, Ma S, Luo L, You J. Pharmaceutical strategies for optimized mRNA expression. Biomaterials 2024; 314:122853. [PMID: 39342919 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122853] [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: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based immunotherapies and protein in situ production therapies hold great promise for addressing theoretically all the diseases characterized by aberrant protein levels. The safe, stable, and precise delivery of mRNA to target cells via appropriate pharmaceutical strategies is a prerequisite for its optimal efficacy. In this review, we summarize the structural characteristics, mode of action, development prospects, and limitations of existing mRNA delivery systems from a pharmaceutical perspective, with an emphasis on the impacts from formulation adjustments and preparation techniques of non-viral vectors on mRNA stability, target site accumulation and transfection efficiency. In addition, we introduce strategies for synergistical combination of mRNA and small molecules to augment the potency or mitigate the adverse effects of mRNA therapeutics. Lastly, we delve into the challenges impeding the development of mRNA drugs while exploring promising avenues for future advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Shi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, PR China
| | - Jiapeng Mao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, PR China
| | - Sijie Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, PR China
| | - Siyao Ma
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 166 Qiutaobei Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310017, PR China
| | - Lihua Luo
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, PR China.
| | - Jian You
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, PR China; State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, PR China; The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 QingChun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, PR China; Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, 498 Yiwu Street, Jinhua, Zhejiang, 321299, PR China.
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11
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Dorsey PJ, Lau CL, Chang TC, Doerschuk PC, D'Addio SM. Review of Machine Learning for Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation and Process Development. J Pharm Sci 2024:S0022-3549(24)00422-2. [PMID: 39341497 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2024.09.015] [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: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are a subset of pharmaceutical nanoparticulate formulations designed to encapsulate, stabilize, and deliver nucleic acid cargoes in vivo. Applications for lipid nanoparticles include new interventions for genetic disorders, novel classes of vaccines, and alternate modes of intracellular delivery for therapeutic proteins. In the pharmaceutical industry, establishing a robust formulation and process to achieve target product performance is a critical component of drug development. Fundamental understanding of the processes for making LNPs and their interactions with biological systems have advanced considerably in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, LNP formulation research remains largely empirical and resource intensive due to the multitude of input parameters and the complex physical phenomena that govern the processes of nanoparticle precipitation, self-assembly, structure evolution, and stability. Increasingly, artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) are being applied to improve the efficiency of research activities through in silico models and predictions, and to drive deeper fundamental understanding of experimental inputs to functional outputs. This review will identify current challenges and opportunities in the development of robust LNP formulations of nucleic acids, review studies that apply machine learning methods to experimental datasets, and provide discussion on associated data science challenges to facilitate collaboration between formulation and data scientists, aiming to accelerate the advancement of AI/ML applied to LNP formulation and process optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip J Dorsey
- Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck Research Labs, Merck & Co. Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA; University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Christina L Lau
- Cornell University, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Ti-Chiun Chang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck Research Labs, Merck & Co. Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA
| | - Peter C Doerschuk
- Cornell University, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Suzanne M D'Addio
- Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck Research Labs, Merck & Co. Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
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12
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Chen H, Liu D, Aditham A, Guo J, Huang J, Kostas F, Maher K, Friedrich MJ, Xavier RJ, Zhang F, Wang X. Chemical and topological design of multicapped mRNA and capped circular RNA to augment translation. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-024-02393-y. [PMID: 39313647 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02393-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Protein and vaccine therapies based on mRNA would benefit from an increase in translation capacity. Here, we report a method to augment translation named ligation-enabled mRNA-oligonucleotide assembly (LEGO). We systematically screen different chemotopological motifs and find that a branched mRNA cap effectively initiates translation on linear or circular mRNAs without internal ribosome entry sites. Two types of chemical modification, locked nucleic acid (LNA) N7-methylguanosine modifications on the cap and LNA + 5 × 2' O-methyl on the 5' untranslated region, enhance RNA-eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIF4E-eIF4G) binding and RNA stability against decapping in vitro. Through multidimensional chemotopological engineering of dual-capped mRNA and capped circular RNA, we enhanced mRNA protein production by up to tenfold in vivo, resulting in 17-fold and 3.7-fold higher antibody production after prime and boost doses in a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccine setting, respectively. The LEGO platform opens possibilities to design unnatural RNA structures and topologies beyond canonical linear and circular RNAs for both basic research and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Dangliang Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Abhishek Aditham
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jianting Guo
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jiahao Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Franklin Kostas
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kamal Maher
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Computational and Systems Biology Program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mirco J Friedrich
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ramnik J Xavier
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Feng Zhang
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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13
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Liu B, Pan T. Building better mRNA for therapeutics. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-024-02424-8. [PMID: 39313648 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02424-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Bei Liu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Tao Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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14
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Alom KM, Asa TA, Seo YJ. Simple Enzymatic Incorporation of 2'OMeU Nucleotide at the End of the Poly-A Tail for Enhancement of the mRNA Stability and Protein Expression. ACS Chem Biol 2024. [PMID: 39301931 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
This study focused on the efficient post-transcriptional incorporation of a modified nucleoside at the end of the poly-A tail of mRNA. The modified mRNA was obtained in high yield and served to enhance protein expression. Utilizing poly-U polymerase, our method successfully enabled a single 2'OMeU residue to be incorporated into mRNA, which unexpectedly provided significant stabilization, even with only a single incorporation, to enhance the resistance of mRNA to degradation by cellular exonuclease. This stabilization effect allowed the mRNA to remain viable within the cell for an extended period to ultimately increase the translation efficiency at least 3-fold. This approach to mRNA modification at the 3' end with a single 2'OMeU residue, by utilizing a straightforward tailing method, surpasses other ligation methods in terms of mRNA modification efficiency. Collectively, our results highlight the potential of this method to significantly advance the development of highly effective mRNA-based therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazi Morshed Alom
- Department of Chemistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Tasnima Alam Asa
- Department of Chemistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Jun Seo
- Department of Chemistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
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15
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Chandra S, Wilson JC, Good D, Wei MQ. mRNA vaccines: a new era in vaccine development. Oncol Res 2024; 32:1543-1564. [PMID: 39308511 PMCID: PMC11413818 DOI: 10.32604/or.2024.043987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The advent of RNA therapy, particularly through the development of mRNA cancer vaccines, has ushered in a new era in the field of oncology. This article provides a concise overview of the key principles, recent advancements, and potential implications of mRNA cancer vaccines as a groundbreaking modality in cancer treatment. mRNA cancer vaccines represent a revolutionary approach to combatting cancer by leveraging the body's innate immune system. These vaccines are designed to deliver specific mRNA sequences encoding cancer-associated antigens, prompting the immune system to recognize and mount a targeted response against malignant cells. This personalized and adaptive nature of mRNA vaccines holds immense potential for addressing the heterogeneity of cancer and tailoring treatments to individual patients. Recent breakthroughs in the development of mRNA vaccines, exemplified by the success of COVID-19 vaccines, have accelerated their application in oncology. The mRNA platform's versatility allows for the rapid adaptation of vaccine candidates to various cancer types, presenting an agile and promising avenue for therapeutic intervention. Clinical trials of mRNA cancer vaccines have demonstrated encouraging results in terms of safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy. Pioneering candidates, such as BioNTech's BNT111 and Moderna's mRNA-4157, have exhibited promising outcomes in targeting melanoma and solid tumors, respectively. These successes underscore the potential of mRNA vaccines to elicit robust and durable anti-cancer immune responses. While the field holds great promise, challenges such as manufacturing complexities and cost considerations need to be addressed for widespread adoption. The development of scalable and cost-effective manufacturing processes, along with ongoing clinical research, will be pivotal in realizing the full potential of mRNA cancer vaccines. Overall, mRNA cancer vaccines represent a cutting-edge therapeutic approach that holds the promise of transforming cancer treatment. As research progresses, addressing challenges and refining manufacturing processes will be crucial in advancing these vaccines from clinical trials to mainstream oncology practice, offering new hope for patients in the fight against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhra Chandra
- School of Pharmacy & Medical Sciences, Gold Coast campus, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD-4222, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland (MHIQ), Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD-4215, Australia
| | - Jennifer C Wilson
- School of Pharmacy & Medical Sciences, Gold Coast campus, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD-4222, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland (MHIQ), Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD-4215, Australia
| | - David Good
- School of Allied Health, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, QLD-4014, Australia
| | - Ming Q Wei
- School of Pharmacy & Medical Sciences, Gold Coast campus, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD-4222, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland (MHIQ), Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD-4215, Australia
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16
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Zhang Z, Cheng D, Luo W, Hu D, Yang T, Hu K, Liang L, Liu W, Hu J. Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Lipid Nanoparticles Encapsulating mRNA. Molecules 2024; 29:4409. [PMID: 39339404 PMCID: PMC11433737 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29184409] [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: 08/25/2024] [Revised: 09/14/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have shown great potential in responding to emerging infectious diseases, with their efficacy and stability largely dependent on the delivery vehicles-lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). This study aims to explore the mechanisms by which LNPs encapsulate mRNA, as well as the effects of different N/P ratios and acid types in nucleic acid solutions on the structure and properties of LNPs, using the ethanol solvent injection method as the encapsulation technique. Six systems were designed, based on the composition and proportions of the existing mRNA vaccine mRNA-1273, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were employed to investigate the self-assembly process of LNPs. Ethanol was used as a solvent instead of pure water to better mimic experimental conditions. The results indicate that lipid components self-assemble into nanoparticles under neutral conditions, with the ionizable lipid SM-102 predominantly concentrating in the core of the particles. Upon mixing with nucleic acids in acidic conditions, LNPs undergo disassembly, during which protonated SM-102 encapsulates mRNA through electrostatic interactions, forming stable hydrogen bonds. Cluster structure analysis revealed that the four lipid components of LNPs are distributed sequentially from the outside inwards as DMG-PEG 2000, DSPC, cholesterol, and protonated SM-102. Moreover, LNPs constructed under low pH or low N/P ratios using citric acid exhibited larger volumes and more uniform distribution. These findings provide a scientific basis for further designing and optimizing LNP components to enhance the efficacy of mRNA vaccine encapsulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Dazhi Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Wenqin Luo
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Donling Hu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Tiantian Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Kaixuan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Li Liang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Jianping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal and Edible Plants Resources Development of Sichuan Education Department, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
- School of Life Science, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614004, China
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17
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Pather S, Charpentier N, van den Ouweland F, Rizzi R, Finlayson A, Salisch N, Muik A, Lindemann C, Khanim R, Abduljawad S, Smith ER, Gurwith M, Chen RT. A Brighton Collaboration standardized template with key considerations for a benefit-risk assessment for the Comirnaty COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. Vaccine 2024; 42:126165. [PMID: 39197299 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.126165] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
The Brighton Collaboration Benefit-Risk Assessment of VAccines by TechnolOgy (BRAVATO) Working Group evaluates the safety and other key features of new platform technology vaccines, including nucleic acid (RNA and DNA) vaccines. This manuscript uses the BRAVATO template to report the key considerations for a benefit-risk assessment of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA-based vaccine BNT162b2 (Comirnaty®, or Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine) including the subsequent Original/Omicron BA.1, Original/Omicron BA.4-5 and Omicron XBB.1.5 variant-adapted vaccines developed by BioNTech and Pfizer to protect against COVID-19 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Initial Emergency Use Authorizations or conditional Marketing Authorizations for the original BNT162b2 vaccine were granted based upon a favorable benefit-risk assessment taking into account clinical safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy data, which was subsequently reconfirmed for younger age groups, and by real world evidence data. In addition, the favorable benefit-risk assessment was maintained for the bivalent vaccines, developed against newly arising SARS-CoV-2 variants, with accumulating clinical trial data.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Emily R Smith
- Brighton Collaboration, a program of the Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA.
| | - Marc Gurwith
- Brighton Collaboration, a program of the Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Robert T Chen
- Brighton Collaboration, a program of the Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA
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18
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Monroe J, Eyler DE, Mitchell L, Deb I, Bojanowski A, Srinivas P, Dunham CM, Roy B, Frank AT, Koutmou KS. N1-Methylpseudouridine and pseudouridine modifications modulate mRNA decoding during translation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:8119. [PMID: 39284850 PMCID: PMC11405884 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51301-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The ribosome utilizes hydrogen bonding between mRNA codons and aminoacyl-tRNAs to ensure rapid and accurate protein production. Chemical modification of mRNA nucleobases can adjust the strength and pattern of this hydrogen bonding to alter protein synthesis. We investigate how the N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ) modification, commonly incorporated into therapeutic and vaccine mRNA sequences, influences the speed and fidelity of translation. We find that m1Ψ does not substantially change the rate constants for amino acid addition by cognate tRNAs or termination by release factors. However, we also find that m1Ψ can subtly modulate the fidelity of amino acid incorporation in a codon-position and tRNA dependent manner in vitro and in human cells. Our computational modeling shows that altered energetics of mRNA:tRNA interactions largely account for the context dependence of the low levels of miscoding we observe on Ψ and m1Ψ containing codons. The outcome of translation on modified mRNA bases is thus governed by the sequence context in which they occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Monroe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Daniel E Eyler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lili Mitchell
- RNA and Genome Editing, New England Biolabs Inc., Ipswich, MA, USA
| | - Indrajit Deb
- Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Pooja Srinivas
- Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Bijoyita Roy
- RNA and Genome Editing, New England Biolabs Inc., Ipswich, MA, USA
| | - Aaron T Frank
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Computational Chemistry, Arrakis Therapeutics, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Kristin S Koutmou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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19
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Ahmed S, Herschhorn A. mRNA-based HIV-1 vaccines. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0004124. [PMID: 39016564 PMCID: PMC11391700 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00041-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYThe success of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 mRNA vaccines to lessen/prevent severe COVID-19 opened new opportunities to develop RNA vaccines to fight other infectious agents. HIV-1 is a lentivirus that integrates into the host cell genome and persists for the lifetime of infected cells. Multiple mechanisms of immune evasion have posed significant obstacles to the development of an effective HIV-1 vaccine over the last four decades since the identification of HIV-1. Recently, attempts to address some of these challenges have led to multiple studies that manufactured, optimized, and tested, in different animal models, mRNA-based HIV-1 vaccines. Several clinical trials have also been initiated or are planned to start soon. Here, we review the current strategies applied to HIV-1 mRNA vaccines, discuss different targeting approaches, summarize the latest findings, and offer insights into the challenges and future of HIV-1 mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamim Ahmed
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alon Herschhorn
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Institute for Molecular Virology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Center for Genome Engineering, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Institute for Engineering in Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- The College of Veterinary Medicine Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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20
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Seshire A, Duan Y, Lang K. Reaching Outer Space and Enabling the mRNA Revolution: A Critical Role of Partnerships for Successful Drug and Vaccine Development. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 39254747 DOI: 10.1007/164_2024_723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
mRNA and targeted delivery of mRNA carry the promise to enable targeted treatment of undruggable diseases with high unmet medical needs. The transient nature of mRNA opens options for safe influencing of protein biology, immune responses, and complex ailments without impacting DNA heritage. Technical challenges such as mRNA stability and targeted delivery require next generation solutions, which attracted substantial funding and research interests. To build an integrated mRNA value chain and enable the development of novel therapeutics, Merck KGaA Darmstadt, Germany has initiated an internally incubated program, "Targeted mRNA Delivery" (TMD). This collaborative approach brings together scientists, researchers, engineers, and commercial experts from diverse backgrounds to overcome the multidimensional challenges associated with mRNA technology. In this chapter, the multiple opportunities and challenges for the development of mRNA formulations and therapeutics are described comprehensively. Specifically, the TMD program is presented as a use case to show how intrapreneurs were gathered to establish internal mRNA capabilities and foster collaborations for technology development. In the realm of targeted mRNA delivery, partnerships, encompassing internal partnership and external private, public, and hybrid collaborations, play a crucial role in driving innovation and addressing these hurdles. Within multinational pharmaceutical companies, the establishment of "internal startups" is an effective solution to drive innovation to the next level with support from different business sectors, where existing capabilities and positioning are seamlessly blended with the agility and speed of a startup.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yukun Duan
- Merck Pte. Ltd., an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, Singapore, Singapore
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21
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Lu RM, Hsu HE, Perez SJLP, Kumari M, Chen GH, Hong MH, Lin YS, Liu CH, Ko SH, Concio CAP, Su YJ, Chang YH, Li WS, Wu HC. Current landscape of mRNA technologies and delivery systems for new modality therapeutics. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:89. [PMID: 39256822 PMCID: PMC11389359 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01080-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Realizing the immense clinical potential of mRNA-based drugs will require continued development of methods to safely deliver the bioactive agents with high efficiency and without triggering side effects. In this regard, lipid nanoparticles have been successfully utilized to improve mRNA delivery and protect the cargo from extracellular degradation. Encapsulation in lipid nanoparticles was an essential factor in the successful clinical application of mRNA vaccines, which conclusively demonstrated the technology's potential to yield approved medicines. In this review, we begin by describing current advances in mRNA modifications, design of novel lipids and development of lipid nanoparticle components for mRNA-based drugs. Then, we summarize key points pertaining to preclinical and clinical development of mRNA therapeutics. Finally, we cover topics related to targeted delivery systems, including endosomal escape and targeting of immune cells, tumors and organs for use with mRNA vaccines and new treatment modalities for human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruei-Min Lu
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-En Hsu
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | | | - Monika Kumari
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Hong Chen
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsiang Hong
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Shiou Lin
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hang Liu
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Han Ko
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | | | - Yi-Jen Su
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Han Chang
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Shan Li
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan.
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan.
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan.
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan.
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22
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Delehedde C, Ciganek I, Bernard PL, Laroui N, Da Silva CC, Gonçalves C, Nunes J, Bennaceur-Griscelli AL, Imeri J, Huyghe M, Even L, Midoux P, Rameix N, Guittard G, Pichon C. Enhancing natural killer cells proliferation and cytotoxicity using imidazole-based lipid nanoparticles encapsulating interleukin-2 mRNA. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102263. [PMID: 39104868 PMCID: PMC11298638 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
mRNA applications have undergone unprecedented applications-from vaccination to cell therapy. Natural killer (NK) cells are recognized to have a significant potential in immunotherapy. NK-based cell therapy has drawn attention as allogenic graft with a minimal graft-versus-host risk leading to easier off-the-shelf production. NK cells can be engineered with either viral vectors or electroporation, involving high costs, risks, and toxicity, emphasizing the need for alternative way as mRNA technology. We successfully developed, screened, and optimized novel lipid-based platforms based on imidazole lipids. Formulations are produced by microfluidic mixing and exhibit a size of approximately 100 nm with a polydispersity index of less than 0.2. They are able to transfect NK-92 cells, KHYG-1 cells, and primary NK cells with high efficiency without cytotoxicity, while Lipofectamine Messenger Max and D-Lin-MC3 lipid nanoparticle-based formulations do not. Moreover, the translation of non-modified mRNA was higher and more stable in time compared with a modified one. Remarkably, the delivery of therapeutically relevant interleukin 2 mRNA resulted in extended viability together with preserved activation markers and cytotoxic ability of both NK cell lines and primary NK cells. Altogether, our platforms feature all prerequisites needed for the successful deployment of NK-based therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Delehedde
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, 94400 Vitry-sur-Seine, France
| | - Ivan Ciganek
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Inserm UMS 55 ART ARNm and University of Orléans, 45100 Orléans, France
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, 94400 Vitry-sur-Seine, France
| | - Pierre Louis Bernard
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Onco-Hemato Immuno-Onco Department, OHIO, Cancer Research Centre of Marseille, CRCM, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Nabila Laroui
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Inserm UMS 55 ART ARNm and University of Orléans, 45100 Orléans, France
| | - Cathy Costa Da Silva
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Onco-Hemato Immuno-Onco Department, OHIO, Cancer Research Centre of Marseille, CRCM, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Cristine Gonçalves
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Inserm UMS 55 ART ARNm and University of Orléans, 45100 Orléans, France
| | - Jacques Nunes
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Onco-Hemato Immuno-Onco Department, OHIO, Cancer Research Centre of Marseille, CRCM, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Anne-Lise Bennaceur-Griscelli
- Inserm U 1310 F-94800 Villejuif and CITHERA/ UMS45 Infrastructure INGESTEM, 91100 Evry, France
- University Paris Saclay, APHP Paul Brousse Hospital, School of Medicine, 94270 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Jusuf Imeri
- Inserm U 1310 F-94800 Villejuif and CITHERA/ UMS45 Infrastructure INGESTEM, 91100 Evry, France
- University Paris Saclay, APHP Paul Brousse Hospital, School of Medicine, 94270 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Matthias Huyghe
- Inserm U 1310 F-94800 Villejuif and CITHERA/ UMS45 Infrastructure INGESTEM, 91100 Evry, France
- University Paris Saclay, APHP Paul Brousse Hospital, School of Medicine, 94270 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Luc Even
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, 94400 Vitry-sur-Seine, France
| | - Patrick Midoux
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Inserm UMS 55 ART ARNm and University of Orléans, 45100 Orléans, France
| | - Nathalie Rameix
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, 94400 Vitry-sur-Seine, France
| | - Geoffrey Guittard
- Immunity and Cancer Team, Onco-Hemato Immuno-Onco Department, OHIO, Cancer Research Centre of Marseille, CRCM, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
- Inserm UMS 55 ART ARNm and University of Orléans, 45100 Orléans, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, 1 rue Descartes, 75035 Paris, France
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23
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Kafle S, Montoya B, Tang L, Tam YK, Muramatsu H, Pardi N, Sigal LJ. The roles of CD4 + T cell help, sex, and dose in the induction of protective CD8 + T cells against a lethal poxvirus by mRNA-LNP vaccines. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102279. [PMID: 39188304 PMCID: PMC11345529 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
The role of CD4+ T cells in the induction of protective CD8+ T cells by mRNA lipid nanoparticle (LNP) vaccines is unknown. We used B6 or Tlr9 -/- mice depleted or not of CD4+ T cells and LNP vaccines loaded with mRNAs encoding the ectromelia virus (ECTV) MHC class I H-2 Kb-restricted immunodominant CD8+ T cell epitope TSYKFESV (TSYKFESV mRNA-LNPs) or the ECTV EVM158 protein, which contains TSYKFESV (EVM-158 mRNA-LNPs). Following prime and boost with 10 μg of either vaccine, Kb-TSYKFESV-specific CD8+ T cells fully protected male and female mice from ECTV at 29 (both mRNA-LNPs) or 90 days (EVM158 mRNA-LNPs) post boost (dpb) independently of CD4+ T cells. However, at 29 dpb with 1 μg mRNA-LNPs, males had lower frequencies of Kb-TSYKFESV-specific CD8+ T cells and were much less well protected than females from ECTV, also independently of CD4+ T cells. At 90 dpb with 1 μg EVM158 mRNA-LNPs, the frequencies of Kb-TSYKFESV-specific CD8+ T cells in males and females were similar, and both were similarly partially protected from ECTV, independently of CD4+ T cells. Therefore, at optimal or suboptimal doses of mRNA-LNP vaccines, CD4+ T cell help is unnecessary to induce protective anti-poxvirus CD8+ T cells specific to a dominant epitope. At suboptimal doses, protection of males requires more time to develop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samita Kafle
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Bluemle Life Science Building, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Brian Montoya
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Bluemle Life Science Building, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Lingjuan Tang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Bluemle Life Science Building, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Ying K. Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Hiromi Muramatsu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Luis J. Sigal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Bluemle Life Science Building, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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24
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Warminski M, Depaix A, Ziemkiewicz K, Spiewla T, Zuberek J, Drazkowska K, Kedzierska H, Popielec A, Baranowski MR, Sklucka M, Bednarczyk M, Smietanski M, Wolosewicz K, Majewski B, Serwa RA, Nowis D, Golab J, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Trinucleotide cap analogs with triphosphate chain modifications: synthesis, properties, and evaluation as mRNA capping reagents. Nucleic Acids Res 2024:gkae763. [PMID: 39248095 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemics have demonstrated the great therapeutic potential of in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNAs, but improvements in their biochemical properties, such as cellular stability, reactogenicity and translational activity, are critical for further practical applications in gene replacement therapy and anticancer immunotherapy. One of the strategies to overcome these limitations is the chemical modification of a unique mRNA 5'-end structure, the 5'-cap, which is responsible for regulating translation at multiple levels. This could be achieved by priming the in vitro transcription reaction with synthetic cap analogs. In this study, we combined a highly efficient trinucleotide IVT capping technology with several modifications of the 5' cap triphosphate bridge to synthesize a series of 16 new cap analogs. We also combined these modifications with epigenetic marks (2'-O-methylation and m6Am) characteristic of mRNA 5'-ends in higher eukaryotes, which was not possible with dinucleotide caps. All analogs were compared for their effect on the interactions with eIF4E protein, IVT priming, susceptibility to decapping, and mRNA translation efficiency in model cell lines. The most promising α-phosphorothiolate modification was also evaluated in an in vivo mouse model. Unexpected differences between some of the analogs were analyzed using a protein cell extract pull-down assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anais Depaix
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2C, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Ziemkiewicz
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2C, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Spiewla
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Drazkowska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2C, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Hanna Kedzierska
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Popielec
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek R Baranowski
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Sklucka
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Miroslaw Smietanski
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karol Wolosewicz
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bartosz Majewski
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Remigiusz A Serwa
- Proteomics Core Facility, IMol Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-247 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominika Nowis
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Golab
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Nielubowicza 5, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2C, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Explorna Therapeutics sp. z o.o, Zwirki i Wigury 93/2157, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
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25
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Biscaia-Caleiras M, Fonseca NA, Lourenço AS, Moreira JN, Simões S. Rational formulation and industrial manufacturing of lipid-based complex injectables: Landmarks and trends. J Control Release 2024; 373:617-639. [PMID: 39002799 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.07.021] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Lipid-based complex injectables are renowned for their effectiveness in delivering drugs, with many approved products. While significant strides have been made in formulating nanosystems for small molecular weight drugs, a pivotal breakthrough emerged with the recognition of lipid nanoparticles as a promising platform for delivering nucleic acids. This finding has paved the way for tackling long-standing challenges in molecular and delivery aspects (e.g., mRNA stability, intracellular delivery) that have impeded the clinical translation of gene therapy, especially in the realm of immunotherapy. Nonetheless, developing and implementing new lipid-based delivery systems pose significant challenges, as industrial manufacturing of these formulations often involves complex, multi-batch processes, giving rise to issues related to scalability, stability, sterility, and regulatory compliance. To overcome these obstacles, embracing the principles of quality-by-design (QbD) is imperative. Furthermore, adopting cutting-edge manufacturing and process analytical tools (PAT) that facilitate the transition from batch to continuous production is essential. Herein, the key milestones and insights derived from the development of currently approved lipid- nanosystems will be explored. Additionally, a comprehensive and critical overview of the latest technologies and regulatory guidelines that underpin the creation of more efficient, scalable, and flexible manufacturing processes for complex lipid-based nanoformulations will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Biscaia-Caleiras
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Bluepharma-Indústria Farmacêutica, S.A., São Martinho do Bispo, 3045-016 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra-University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno A Fonseca
- Bluepharma-Indústria Farmacêutica, S.A., São Martinho do Bispo, 3045-016 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Lourenço
- Bluepharma-Indústria Farmacêutica, S.A., São Martinho do Bispo, 3045-016 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Nuno Moreira
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra-University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Simões
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Bluepharma-Indústria Farmacêutica, S.A., São Martinho do Bispo, 3045-016 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra-University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
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26
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Wolfson DW, Kim NK, Lee KH, Beyersdorf JP, Langberg JJ, Fernandez N, Choi D, Zureick N, Kim TY, Bae S, Gu JM, Kirschman JL, Fan J, Sheng CY, Gottlieb Sen D, Mettler B, Sung JH, Yoon YS, Park SJ, Santangelo PJ, Cho HC. Transient pacing in pigs with complete heart block via myocardial injection of mRNA coding for the T-box transcription factor 18. Nat Biomed Eng 2024; 8:1124-1141. [PMID: 38698155 PMCID: PMC11410671 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-024-01211-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
The adenovirus-mediated somatic transfer of the embryonic T-box transcription factor 18 (TBX18) gene can convert chamber cardiomyocytes into induced pacemaker cells. However, the translation of therapeutic TBX18-induced cardiac pacing faces safety challenges. Here we show that the myocardial expression of synthetic TBX18 mRNA in animals generates de novo pacing and limits innate and inflammatory immune responses. In rats, intramyocardially injected mRNA remained localized, whereas direct myocardial injection of an adenovirus carrying a reporter gene resulted in diffuse expression and in substantial spillover to the liver, spleen and lungs. Transient expression of TBX18 mRNA in rats led to de novo automaticity and pacemaker properties and, compared with the injection of adenovirus, to substantial reductions in the expression of inflammatory genes and in activated macrophage populations. In rodent and clinically relevant porcine models of complete heart block, intramyocardially injected TBX18 mRNA provided rate-adaptive cardiac pacing for one month that strongly correlated with the animal's sinus rhythm and physical activity. TBX18 mRNA may aid the development of biological pacemakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Wolfson
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nam Kyun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ki Hong Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Jared P Beyersdorf
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan J Langberg
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Natasha Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dahim Choi
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nadine Zureick
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tae Yun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Seongho Bae
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jin-Mo Gu
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan L Kirschman
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jinqi Fan
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christina Y Sheng
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Danielle Gottlieb Sen
- Division of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bret Mettler
- Division of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jung Hoon Sung
- Department of Cardiology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Young-Sup Yoon
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sung-Jin Park
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Philip J Santangelo
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Hee Cheol Cho
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Division of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Blalock-Taussig-Thomas Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center, The Johns Hopkins Children's Center, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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27
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Mangiavacchi A, Morelli G, Reppe S, Saera-Vila A, Liu P, Eggerschwiler B, Zhang H, Bensaddek D, Casanova EA, Medina Gomez C, Prijatelj V, Della Valle F, Atinbayeva N, Izpisua Belmonte JC, Rivadeneira F, Cinelli P, Gautvik KM, Orlando V. LINE-1 RNA triggers matrix formation in bone cells via a PKR-mediated inflammatory response. EMBO J 2024; 43:3587-3603. [PMID: 38951609 PMCID: PMC11377738 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00143-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genetic modules of viral derivation that have been co-opted to become modulators of mammalian gene expression. TEs are a major source of endogenous dsRNAs, signaling molecules able to coordinate inflammatory responses in various physiological processes. Here, we provide evidence for a positive involvement of TEs in inflammation-driven bone repair and mineralization. In newly fractured mice bone, we observed an early transient upregulation of repeats occurring concurrently with the initiation of the inflammatory stage. In human bone biopsies, analysis revealed a significant correlation between repeats expression, mechanical stress and bone mineral density. We investigated a potential link between LINE-1 (L1) expression and bone mineralization by delivering a synthetic L1 RNA to osteoporotic patient-derived mesenchymal stem cells and observed a dsRNA-triggered protein kinase (PKR)-mediated stress response that led to strongly increased mineralization. This response was associated with a strong and transient inflammation, accompanied by a global translation attenuation induced by eIF2α phosphorylation. We demonstrated that L1 transfection reshaped the secretory profile of osteoblasts, triggering a paracrine activity that stimulated the mineralization of recipient cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Mangiavacchi
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Biological Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Gabriele Morelli
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Biological Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sjur Reppe
- Oslo University Hospital, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo, Norway
- Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Unger-Vetlesen Institute, Oslo, Norway
- Oslo University Hospital, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Peng Liu
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Biological Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Benjamin Eggerschwiler
- Department of Trauma, University Hospital Zurich, Sternwartstrasse 14, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
- Life Science Zurich Graduate School, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Huoming Zhang
- Core Labs, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Dalila Bensaddek
- Core Labs, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Elisa A Casanova
- Department of Trauma, University Hospital Zurich, Sternwartstrasse 14, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Vid Prijatelj
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Francesco Della Valle
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Biological Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nazerke Atinbayeva
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Biological Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Fernando Rivadeneira
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paolo Cinelli
- Department of Trauma, University Hospital Zurich, Sternwartstrasse 14, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Valerio Orlando
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Biological Environmental Science and Engineering Division, Thuwal, 23500-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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28
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Guimaraes GJ, Kim J, Bartlett MG. Characterization of mRNA therapeutics. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2024; 43:1066-1090. [PMID: 37401740 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have emerged as powerful tools in the treatment of complex diseases, especially for conditions that lack efficacious treatment. The successful application of this modality can be attributed to its ability to encode entire proteins. While the large nature of these molecules has supported their success as therapeutics, its extended size creates several analytical challenges. To further support therapeutic mRNA development and its deployment in clinical trials, appropriate methods to support their characterization must be developed. In this review, we describe current analytical methods that have been used in the characterization of RNA quality, identity, and integrity. Advantages and limitations from several analytical techniques ranging from gel electrophoresis to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and from shotgun sequencing to intact mass measurements are discussed. We comprehensively describe the application of analytical methods in the measurements of capping efficiency, poly A tail analysis, as well as their applicability in stability studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme J Guimaraes
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Jaeah Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Michael G Bartlett
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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29
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Shoja Doost J, Fazel F, Boodhoo N, Sharif S. mRNA Vaccination: An Outlook on Innate Sensing and Adaptive Immune Responses. Viruses 2024; 16:1404. [PMID: 39339880 PMCID: PMC11437395 DOI: 10.3390/v16091404] [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: 08/06/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccination has led to significant dismantling of infectious diseases worldwide. Since the dawn of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, there has been increased popularity in the usage and study of the mRNA vaccine platform. Here, we highlight fundamental knowledge on mRNA vaccine pharmacology, followed by the immunity conferred by innate sensing and adaptive responses resulting from exposure to the mRNA vaccine construct and encapsulation materials. A better understanding of these immune mechanisms will shed light on further improvements in mRNA vaccine design, aiming to improve efficiency and optimize immune responses upon inoculation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shayan Sharif
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (J.S.D.); (F.F.); (N.B.)
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30
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Gao Y, Yang L, Li Z, Peng X, Li H. mRNA vaccines in tumor targeted therapy: mechanism, clinical application, and development trends. Biomark Res 2024; 12:93. [PMID: 39217377 PMCID: PMC11366172 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00644-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors remain a primary cause of human mortality. Among the various treatment modalities for neoplasms, tumor vaccines have consistently shown efficacy and promising potential. These vaccines offer advantages such as specificity, safety, and tolerability, with mRNA vaccines representing promising platforms. By introducing exogenous mRNAs encoding antigens into somatic cells and subsequently synthesizing antigens through gene expression systems, mRNA vaccines can effectively induce immune responses. Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman were awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their great contributions to mRNA vaccine research. Compared with traditional tumor vaccines, mRNA vaccines have several advantages, including rapid preparation, reduced contamination, nonintegrability, and high biodegradability. Tumor-targeted therapy is an innovative treatment modality that enables precise targeting of tumor cells, minimizes damage to normal tissues, is safe at high doses, and demonstrates great efficacy. Currently, targeted therapy has become an important treatment option for malignant tumors. The application of mRNA vaccines in tumor-targeted therapy is expanding, with numerous clinical trials underway. We systematically outline the targeted delivery mechanism of mRNA vaccines and the mechanism by which mRNA vaccines induce anti-tumor immune responses, describe the current research and clinical applications of mRNA vaccines in tumor-targeted therapy, and forecast the future development trends of mRNA vaccine application in tumor-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Liang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China
| | - Zhenning Li
- Department of Oromaxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Xueqiang Peng
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China.
| | - Hangyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, China.
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31
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Bakrania A, Mo Y, Zheng G, Bhat M. RNA nanomedicine in liver diseases. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00569. [PMID: 37725757 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable impact of RNA nanomedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the expansive therapeutic potential of this field in diverse disease contexts. In recent years, RNA nanomedicine targeting the liver has been paradigm-shifting in the management of metabolic diseases such as hyperoxaluria and amyloidosis. RNA nanomedicine has significant potential in the management of liver diseases, where optimal management would benefit from targeted delivery, doses titrated to liver metabolism, and personalized therapy based on the specific site of interest. In this review, we discuss in-depth the different types of RNA and nanocarriers used for liver targeting along with their specific applications in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, liver fibrosis, and liver cancers. We further highlight the strategies for cell-specific delivery and future perspectives in this field of research with the emergence of small activating RNA, circular RNA, and RNA base editing approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Bakrania
- Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yulin Mo
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gang Zheng
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mamatha Bhat
- Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Ajmera Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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32
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Simoni C, Barbon E, Muro AF, Cantore A. In vivo liver targeted genome editing as therapeutic approach: progresses and challenges. Front Genome Ed 2024; 6:1458037. [PMID: 39246827 PMCID: PMC11378722 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2024.1458037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The liver is an essential organ of the body that performs several vital functions, including the metabolism of biomolecules, foreign substances, and toxins, and the production of plasma proteins, such as coagulation factors. There are hundreds of genetic disorders affecting liver functions and, for many of them, the only curative option is orthotopic liver transplantation, which nevertheless entails many risks and long-term complications. Some peculiar features of the liver, such as its large blood flow supply and the tolerogenic immune environment, make it an attractive target for in vivo gene therapy approaches. In recent years, several genome-editing tools mainly based on the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) system have been successfully exploited in the context of liver-directed preclinical or clinical therapeutic applications. These include gene knock-out, knock-in, activation, interference, or base and prime editing approaches. Despite many achievements, important challenges still need to be addressed to broaden clinical applications, such as the optimization of the delivery methods, the improvement of the editing efficiency, and the risk of on-target or off-target unwanted effects and chromosomal rearrangements. In this review, we highlight the latest progress in the development of in vivo liver-targeted genome editing approaches for the treatment of genetic disorders. We describe the technological advancements that are currently under investigation, the challenges to overcome for clinical applicability, and the future perspectives of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Simoni
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Barbon
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrés F Muro
- International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessio Cantore
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Neill B, Romero AR, Fenton OS. Advances in Nonviral mRNA Delivery Materials and Their Application as Vaccines for Melanoma Therapy. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:4894-4913. [PMID: 37930174 PMCID: PMC11220486 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines are promising platforms for cancer immunotherapy because of their potential to encode for a variety of tumor antigens, high tolerability, and capacity to induce strong antitumor immune responses. However, the clinical translation of mRNA cancer vaccines can be hindered by the inefficient delivery of mRNA in vivo. In this review, we provide an overview of mRNA cancer vaccines by discussing their utility in treating melanoma. Specifically, we begin our review by describing the barriers that can impede mRNA delivery to target cells. We then review native mRNA structure and discuss various modification methods shown to enhance mRNA stability and transfection. Next, we outline the advantages and challenges of three nonviral carrier platforms (lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and lipopolyplexes) frequently used for mRNA delivery. Last, we summarize preclinical and clinical studies that have investigated nonviral mRNA vaccines for the treatment of melanoma. In writing this review, we aim to highlight innovative nonviral strategies designed to address mRNA delivery challenges while emphasizing the exciting potential of mRNA vaccines as next-generation therapies for the treatment of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bevin Neill
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Adriana Retamales Romero
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Owen S. Fenton
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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He Y, Johnston APR, Pouton CW. Therapeutic applications of cell engineering using mRNA technology. Trends Biotechnol 2024:S0167-7799(24)00191-4. [PMID: 39153909 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2024.07.012] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Engineering and reprogramming cells has significant therapeutic potential to treat a wide range of diseases, by replacing missing or defective proteins, to provide transcription factors (TFs) to reprogram cell phenotypes, or to provide enzymes such as RNA-guided Cas9 derivatives for CRISPR-based cell engineering. While viral vector-mediated gene transfer has played an important role in this field, the use of mRNA avoids safety concerns associated with the integration of DNA into the host cell genome, making mRNA particularly attractive for in vivo applications. Widespread application of mRNA for cell engineering is limited by its instability in the biological environment and challenges involved in the delivery of mRNA to its target site. In this review, we examine challenges that must be overcome to develop effective therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia He
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Angus P R Johnston
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Colin W Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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35
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Wang K, Wang Y, Li Y, Fang B, Li B, Cheng W, Wang K, Yang S. The potential of RNA methylation in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. iScience 2024; 27:110524. [PMID: 39165846 PMCID: PMC11334793 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110524] [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] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA methylation has emerged as a dynamic regulatory mechanism that impacts gene expression and protein synthesis. Among the known RNA methylation modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), 3-methylcytosine (m3C), and N7-methylguanosine (m7G) have been studied extensively. In particular, m6A is the most abundant RNA modification and has attracted significant attention due to its potential effect on multiple biological processes. Recent studies have demonstrated that RNA methylation plays an important role in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). To identify key pathogenic genes of CVD and potential therapeutic targets, we reviewed several common RNA methylation and summarized the research progress of RNA methylation in diverse CVDs, intending to inspire effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - YuQin Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - YingHui Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Bo Fang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Bo Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children’s Health, Beijing 100045, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - SuMin Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
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36
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Palm SM, Horton CA, Zhang X, Collins K. Structure and sequence at an RNA template 5' end influence insertion of transgenes by an R2 retrotransposon protein. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:1227-1245. [PMID: 38960642 PMCID: PMC11331408 DOI: 10.1261/rna.080031.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
R2 non-long terminal repeat retrotransposons insert site-specifically into ribosomal RNA genes (rDNA) in a broad range of multicellular eukaryotes. R2-encoded proteins can be leveraged to mediate transgene insertion at 28S rDNA loci in cultured human cells. This strategy, precise RNA-mediated insertion of transgenes (PRINT), relies on the codelivery of an mRNA encoding R2 protein and an RNA template encoding a transgene cassette of choice. Here, we demonstrate that the PRINT RNA template 5' module, which as a complementary DNA 3' end will generate the transgene 5' junction with rDNA, influences the efficiency and mechanism of gene insertion. Iterative design and testing identified optimal 5' modules consisting of a hepatitis delta virus-like ribozyme fold with high thermodynamic stability, suggesting that RNA template degradation from its 5' end may limit transgene insertion efficiency. We also demonstrate that transgene 5' junction formation can be either precise, formed by annealing the 3' end of first-strand complementary DNA with the upstream target site, or imprecise, by end-joining, but this difference in junction formation mechanism is not a major determinant of insertion efficiency. Sequence characterization of imprecise end-joining events indicates surprisingly minimal reliance on microhomology. Our findings expand the current understanding of the role of R2 retrotransposon transcript sequence and structure, and especially the 5' ribozyme fold, for retrotransposon mobility and RNA-templated gene synthesis in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Palm
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Connor A Horton
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Xiaozhu Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Kathleen Collins
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
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Mitton-Fry RM, Eschenbach J, Schepers H, Rasche R, Erguven M, Kümmel D, Rentmeister A, Cornelissen NV. Chemo-enzymatic production of base-modified ATP analogues for polyadenylation of RNA. Chem Sci 2024; 15:13068-13073. [PMID: 39148801 PMCID: PMC11322958 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc03769c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Base-modified adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) analogues are highly sought after as building blocks for mRNAs and non-coding RNAs, for genetic code expansion or as inhibitors. Current synthetic strategies lack efficient and robust 5'-triphosphorylation of adenosine derivatives or rely on costly phosphorylation reagents. Here, we combine the efficient organic synthesis of base-modified AMP analogues with enzymatic phosphorylation by a promiscuous polyphosphate kinase 2 class III from an unclassified Erysipelotrichaceae bacterium (EbPPK2) to generate a panel of C2-, N6-, or C8-modified ATP analogues. These can be incorporated into RNA using template independent poly(A) polymerase. C2-halogenated ATP analogues were incorporated best, with incorporations of 300 to >1000 nucleotides forming hypermodified poly(A) tails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Mitton-Fry
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Denison University 100 W. College St., Granville Ohio 43023 USA
| | - Jannik Eschenbach
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Helena Schepers
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - René Rasche
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Mehmet Erguven
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
- Institute of Chemical Epigenetics, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich Butenandtstr. 5-13, Haus F D-81377 Munich Germany
- Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster Waldeyerstraße 15 D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Daniel Kümmel
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
- Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster Waldeyerstraße 15 D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Andrea Rentmeister
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
- Institute of Chemical Epigenetics, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich Butenandtstr. 5-13, Haus F D-81377 Munich Germany
- Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre, University of Münster Waldeyerstraße 15 D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Nicolas V Cornelissen
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster Corrensstr. 36 D-48149 Münster Germany
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Palos K, Nelson Dittrich AC, Lyons EH, Gregory BD, Nelson ADL. Comparative analyses suggest a link between mRNA splicing, stability, and RNA covalent modifications in flowering plants. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:768. [PMID: 39134938 PMCID: PMC11318313 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-05486-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, covalent modifications on RNA nucleotides have emerged as pivotal moieties influencing the structure, function, and regulatory processes of RNA Polymerase II transcripts such as mRNAs and lncRNAs. However, our understanding of their biological roles and whether these roles are conserved across eukaryotes remains limited. RESULTS In this study, we leveraged standard polyadenylation-enriched RNA-sequencing data to identify and characterize RNA modifications that introduce base-pairing errors into cDNA reads. Our investigation incorporated data from three Poaceae (Zea mays, Sorghum bicolor, and Setaria italica), as well as publicly available data from a range of stress and genetic contexts in Sorghum and Arabidopsis thaliana. We uncovered a strong enrichment of RNA covalent modifications (RCMs) deposited on a conserved core set of nuclear mRNAs involved in photosynthesis and translation across these species. However, the cohort of modified transcripts changed based on environmental context and developmental program, a pattern that was also conserved across flowering plants. We determined that RCMs can partly explain accession-level differences in drought tolerance in Sorghum, with stress-associated genes receiving a higher level of RCMs in a drought tolerant accession. To address function, we determined that RCMs are significantly enriched near exon junctions within coding regions, suggesting an association with splicing. Intriguingly, we found that these base-pair disrupting RCMs are associated with stable mRNAs, are highly correlated with protein abundance, and thus likely associated with facilitating translation. CONCLUSIONS Our data point to a conserved role for RCMs in mRNA stability and translation across the flowering plant lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Palos
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Cornell University, 533 Tower Road, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | | | - Eric H Lyons
- School of Plant Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Brian D Gregory
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew D L Nelson
- Boyce Thompson Institute, Cornell University, 533 Tower Road, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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Hu J, Zhong L, Wang Y, Hu S, Zhang L, Tian Q. Cell membrane patches transfer CAR molecules from a cellular depot to conventional T cells for constructing innovative fused-CAR-T cells without necessitating genetic modification. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:75. [PMID: 39103961 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00545-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) serves as the foundational element of CAR-T cells. Exogenous CAR molecules can exert functional effects on allogeneic T cells, leading to their activation and subsequent functional alterations. Here we show a new method based on this biological principle: the transfer of CAR molecules from exogenous cells to the membrane of receptor T cells. This process facilitates receptor T cell to recognize target antigens and induces their activation. These patches imbued normal T cells with enhanced tumor targeting capabilities and activated their inherent killing functions. This method's efficacy introduces an approach for constructing non-genetically manipulated CAR-T cells and holds potential for application to other immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Luyi Zhong
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Yiqiu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Shiyi Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Lijiaqi Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Qingchang Tian
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China.
- Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China.
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Wu J, Purushothaman R, Kallert F, Homölle SL, Ackermann L. Electrochemical Glycosylation via Halogen-Atom-Transfer for C-Glycoside Assembly. ACS Catal 2024; 14:11532-11544. [PMID: 39114086 PMCID: PMC11301629 DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.4c02322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Glycosyl donor activation emerged as an enabling technology for anomeric functionalization, but aimed primarily at O-glycosylation. In contrast, we herein disclose mechanistically distinct electrochemical glycosyl bromide donor activations via halogen-atom transfer and anomeric C-glycosylation. The anomeric radical addition to alkenes led to C-alkyl glycoside synthesis under precious metal-free reaction conditions from readily available glycosyl bromides. The robustness of our e-XAT strategy was further mirrored by C-aryl and C-acyl glycosides assembly through nickela-electrocatalysis. Our approach provides an orthogonal strategy for glycosyl donor activation with expedient scope, hence representing a general method for direct C-glycosides assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Felix Kallert
- Wöhler-Research Institute
for Sustainable Chemistry, Georg-August-Universität
Göttingen, Tammannstraße
2, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Simon L. Homölle
- Wöhler-Research Institute
for Sustainable Chemistry, Georg-August-Universität
Göttingen, Tammannstraße
2, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Lutz Ackermann
- Wöhler-Research Institute
for Sustainable Chemistry, Georg-August-Universität
Göttingen, Tammannstraße
2, Göttingen 37077, Germany
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41
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Wang Y, Liu M, Lin X, Wang H, Dong N, Liu H, Shao H, Zhang W. Genome Editing of Mammalian Cells Through RNA Transcript-Mediated Homologous Recombination Repair. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:555-563. [PMID: 39046112 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2024.025] [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] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Double-stranded break (DSB) repair of eukaryotic DNA is mainly accomplished by nonhomologous end joining and homologous recombination (HR). Providing exogenous templates during HR repair can result in the editing of target genes, which is the central mechanism of the well-established clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) gene editing system. Currently, exogenous templates are mainly DNA molecules, which can provoke a cellular immune response within the cell. In order to verify the feasibility of RNA molecules as repair templates for HR in mammalian cell genome editing, we fused RNA template molecules to the 3'-end of single guide RNA (sgRNA), so that the sgRNA and the homologous template RNA form a single RNA molecule. The results show this construct can be used as a repair template to achieve target gene editing in mammalian cells. In addition, the factors influencing HR mediated by RNA template molecules were investigated, and it was found that increasing the length of homologous arms and inducing an R-loop near the DSBcan effectively promote HR repair. Furthermore, intracellular homologous chromosomes may compete with exogenous RNA templates. The findings in this article provide a reference for the utilization of RNA template molecules to mediate target gene editing in eukaryotic cells, as well as a basis for the study of the mechanism by which RNA molecules mediate the repair of DSBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangmin Wang
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Meilin Liu
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinjian Lin
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Haozheng Wang
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Dong
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hengshen Liu
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongwei Shao
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenfeng Zhang
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Biopharmaceutical Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Soroudi S, Jaafari MR, Arabi L. Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mediated mRNA delivery in cardiovascular diseases: Advances in genome editing and CAR T cell therapy. J Control Release 2024; 372:113-140. [PMID: 38876358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.06.023] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of global mortality among non-communicable diseases. Current cardiac regeneration treatments have limitations and may lead to adverse reactions. Hence, innovative technologies are needed to address these shortcomings. Messenger RNA (mRNA) emerges as a promising therapeutic agent due to its versatility in encoding therapeutic proteins and targeting "undruggable" conditions. It offers low toxicity, high transfection efficiency, and controlled protein production without genome insertion or mutagenesis risk. However, mRNA faces challenges such as immunogenicity, instability, and difficulty in cellular entry and endosomal escape, hindering its clinical application. To overcome these hurdles, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), notably used in COVID-19 vaccines, have a great potential to deliver mRNA therapeutics for CVDs. This review highlights recent progress in mRNA-LNP therapies for CVDs, including Myocardial Infarction (MI), Heart Failure (HF), and hypercholesterolemia. In addition, LNP-mediated mRNA delivery for CAR T-cell therapy and CRISPR/Cas genome editing in CVDs and the related clinical trials are explored. To enhance the efficiency, safety, and clinical translation of mRNA-LNPs, advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AGILE platform) in RNA structure design, and optimization of LNP formulation could be integrated. We conclude that the strategies to facilitate the extra-hepatic delivery and targeted organ tropism of mRNA-LNPs (SORT, ASSET, SMRT, and barcoded LNPs) hold great prospects to accelerate the development and translation of mRNA-LNPs in CVD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Setareh Soroudi
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Arabi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Wu Z, Sun W, Qi H. Recent Advancements in mRNA Vaccines: From Target Selection to Delivery Systems. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:873. [PMID: 39203999 PMCID: PMC11359327 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12080873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines are leading a medical revolution. mRNA technologies utilize the host's own cells as bio-factories to produce proteins that serve as antigens. This revolutionary approach circumvents the complicated processes involved in traditional vaccine production and empowers vaccines with the ability to respond to emerging or mutated infectious diseases rapidly. Additionally, the robust cellular immune response elicited by mRNA vaccines has shown significant promise in cancer treatment. However, the inherent instability of mRNA and the complexity of tumor immunity have limited its broader application. Although the emergence of pseudouridine and ionizable cationic lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) made the clinical application of mRNA possible, there remains substantial potential for further improvement of the immunogenicity of delivered antigens and preventive or therapeutic effects of mRNA technology. Here, we review the latest advancements in mRNA vaccines, including but not limited to target selection and delivery systems. This review offers a multifaceted perspective on this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyan Wu
- Newish Biological R&D Center, Beijing 100101, China;
| | - Weilu Sun
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK;
| | - Hailong Qi
- Newish Biological R&D Center, Beijing 100101, China;
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Fazel F, Doost JS, Raj S, Boodhoo N, Karimi K, Sharif S. The mRNA vaccine platform for veterinary species. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2024; 274:110803. [PMID: 39003921 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2024.110803] [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: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Vaccination has proven to be an effective means of controlling pathogens in animals. Since the introduction of veterinary vaccines in the 19th century, several generations of vaccines have been introduced. These vaccines have had a positive impact on global animal health and production. Despite, the success of veterinary vaccines, there are still some pathogens for which there are no effective vaccines available, such as African swine fever. Further, animal health is under the constant threat of emerging and re-emerging pathogens, some of which are zoonotic and can pose a threat to human health. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has highlighted the need for new vaccine platforms that are safe and efficacious, but also importantly, are adaptable and can be modified rapidly to match the circulating pathogens. mRNA vaccines have been shown to be an effective vaccine platform against various viral and bacterial pathogens. This review will cover some of the recent advances in the field of mRNA vaccines for veterinary species. Moreover, various mRNA vaccines and their delivery methods, as well as their reported efficacy, will be discussed. Current limitations and future prospects of this vaccine platform in veterinary medicine will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Fazel
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Janan Shoja Doost
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Sugandha Raj
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Nitish Boodhoo
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Khalil Karimi
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Shayan Sharif
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Miyazato P, Noguchi T, Ogawa F, Sugimoto T, Fauzyah Y, Sasaki R, Ebina H. 1mΨ influences the performance of various positive-stranded RNA virus-based replicons. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17634. [PMID: 39085360 PMCID: PMC11292005 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68617-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Self-amplifying RNAs (saRNAs) are versatile vaccine platforms that take advantage of a viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) to amplify the messenger RNA (mRNA) of an antigen of interest encoded within the backbone of the viral genome once inside the target cell. In recent years, more saRNA vaccines have been clinically tested with the hope of reducing the vaccination dose compared to the conventional mRNA approach. The use of N1-methyl-pseudouridine (1mΨ), which enhances RNA stability and reduces the innate immune response triggered by RNAs, is among the improvements included in the current mRNA vaccines. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of this modified nucleoside on various saRNA platforms based on different viruses. The results showed that different stages of the replication process were affected depending on the backbone virus. For TNCL, an insect virus of the Alphanodavirus genus, replication was impaired by poor recognition of viral RNA by RdRp. In contrast, the translation step was severely abrogated in coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3), a member of the Picornaviridae family. Finally, the effects of 1mΨ on Semliki forest virus (SFV), were not detrimental in in vitro studies, but no advantages were observed when immunogenicity was tested in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Miyazato
- The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN), Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Virus Vaccine Group, BIKEN Innovative Vaccine Research Alliance Laboratories, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takafumi Noguchi
- The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN), Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Virus Vaccine Group, BIKEN Innovative Vaccine Research Alliance Laboratories, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Fumiyo Ogawa
- The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN), Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Virus Vaccine Group, BIKEN Innovative Vaccine Research Alliance Laboratories, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sugimoto
- The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN), Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Virus Vaccine Group, BIKEN Innovative Vaccine Research Alliance Laboratories, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuzy Fauzyah
- The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN), Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Virus Vaccine Group, BIKEN Innovative Vaccine Research Alliance Laboratories, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryo Sasaki
- The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN), Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Ebina
- The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN), Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Virus Vaccine Group, BIKEN Innovative Vaccine Research Alliance Laboratories, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Center for Advanced Modalities and DDS (CAMaD), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research (CiDER), Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
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46
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Kuzmin IV, Soto Acosta R, Pruitt L, Wasdin PT, Kedarinath K, Hernandez KR, Gonzales KA, Hill K, Weidner NG, Mire C, Engdahl TB, Moon WJ, Popov V, Crowe JE, Georgiev IS, Garcia-Blanco MA, Abbott RK, Bukreyev A. Comparison of uridine and N1-methylpseudouridine mRNA platforms in development of an Andes virus vaccine. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6421. [PMID: 39080316 PMCID: PMC11289437 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50774-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The rodent-borne Andes virus (ANDV) causes a severe disease in humans. We developed an ANDV mRNA vaccine based on the M segment of the viral genome, either with regular uridine (U-mRNA) or N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ-mRNA). Female mice immunized by m1Ψ-mRNA developed slightly greater germinal center (GC) responses than U-mRNA-immunized mice. Single cell RNA and BCR sequencing of the GC B cells revealed similar levels of activation, except an additional cluster of cells exhibiting interferon response in animals vaccinated with U-mRNA but not m1Ψ-mRNA. Similar immunoglobulin class-switching and somatic hypermutations were observed in response to the vaccines. Female Syrian hamsters were immunized via a prime-boost regimen with two doses of each vaccine. The titers of glycoprotein-binding antibodies were greater for U-mRNA construct than for m1Ψ-mRNA construct; however, the titers of ANDV-neutralizing antibodies were similar. Vaccinated animals were challenged with a lethal dose of ANDV, along with a naïve control group. All control animals and two animals vaccinated with a lower dose of m1Ψ-mRNA succumbed to infection whereas other vaccinated animals survived without evidence of virus replication. The data demonstrate the development of a protective vaccine against ANDV and the lack of a substantial effect of m1Ψ modification on immunogenicity and protection in rodents.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Female
- Mice
- Mesocricetus
- Uridine
- Viral Vaccines/immunology
- Viral Vaccines/administration & dosage
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/immunology
- Antibodies, Viral/immunology
- Orthohantavirus/immunology
- Orthohantavirus/genetics
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
- Germinal Center/immunology
- Pseudouridine/immunology
- Cricetinae
- mRNA Vaccines
- Hemorrhagic Fever, American/prevention & control
- Hemorrhagic Fever, American/immunology
- Hemorrhagic Fever, American/virology
- RNA, Viral/genetics
- RNA, Viral/immunology
- B-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Humans
- Vaccine Development
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan V Kuzmin
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ruben Soto Acosta
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Layne Pruitt
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Perry T Wasdin
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kritika Kedarinath
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Keziah R Hernandez
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Kristyn A Gonzales
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Kharighan Hill
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Nicole G Weidner
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Chad Mire
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Taylor B Engdahl
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Vsevolod Popov
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - James E Crowe
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ivelin S Georgiev
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mariano A Garcia-Blanco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Robert K Abbott
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
| | - Alexander Bukreyev
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
- Galveston National Laboratory, Galveston, TX, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
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47
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Hamblet C, Björhall K, Busch S, Gehrmann U, Öberg L, Kubisch-Dohmen R, Haas S, Aneja MK, Geiger J, Rudolph C, Hornberg E. Transcriptional Dynamics of NRF2 Overexpression and KEAP1-NRF2 Inhibitors in Human Cell Line and Primary Lung Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:924. [PMID: 39199170 PMCID: PMC11351141 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13080924] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress in the human lung is caused by both internal (e.g., inflammation) and external stressors (smoking, pollution, and infection) to drive pathology in a number of lung diseases. Cellular damage caused by oxidative damage is reversed by several pathways, one of which is the antioxidant response. This response is regulated by the transcriptional factor NRF2, which has the ability to regulate the transcription of more than 250 genes. In disease, this balance is overwhelmed, and the cells are unable to return to homeostasis. Several pharmacological approaches aim to improve the antioxidant capacity by inhibiting the interaction of NRF2 with its key cytosolic inhibitor, KEAP1. Here, we evaluate an alternative approach by overexpressing NRF2 from chemically modified RNAs (cmRNAs). Our results demonstrate successful expression of functional NRF2 protein in human cell lines and primary cells. We establish a kinetic transcriptomic profile to compare antioxidant response gene expression after treatment of primary human bronchial epithelial cells with either KEAP1 inhibitors or cmRNAs. The key gene signature is then applied to primary human lung fibroblasts and alveolar macrophages to uncover transcriptional preferences in each cell system. This study provides a foundation for the understanding of NRF2 dynamics in the human lung and provides initial evidence of alternative ways for pharmacological interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Hamblet
- Bioscience Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease & Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Karin Björhall
- Bioscience Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease & Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Susann Busch
- Respiratory & Immunology, Neuroscience, Vaccines and Immune Therapies Safety, Clinical Pharmacology & Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Ulf Gehrmann
- Translational Science and Experimental Medicine Research, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Lisa Öberg
- Translational Science and Experimental Medicine Research, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ellinor Hornberg
- Projects and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, 431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
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48
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Brook B, Duval V, Barman S, Speciner L, Sweitzer C, Khanmohammed A, Menon M, Foster K, Ghosh P, Abedi K, Koster J, Nanishi E, Baden LR, Levy O, VanCott T, Micol R, Dowling DJ. Adjuvantation of a SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine with controlled tissue-specific expression of an mRNA encoding IL-12p70. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadm8451. [PMID: 39047117 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adm8451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines were pivotal in reducing severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection burden, yet they have not demonstrated robust durability, especially in older adults. Here, we describe a molecular adjuvant comprising a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-encapsulated mRNA encoding interleukin-12p70 (IL-12p70). The bioactive adjuvant was engineered with a multiorgan protection (MOP) sequence to restrict transcript expression to the intramuscular injection site. Admixing IL-12-MOP (CTX-1796) with the BNT162b2 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine increased spike protein-specific immune responses in mice. Specifically, the benefits of IL-12-MOP adjuvantation included amplified humoral and cellular immunity and increased immune durability for 1 year after vaccination in mice. An additional benefit included the restoration of immunity in aged mice to amounts comparable to those achieved in young adult animals, alongside amplification with a single immunization. Associated enhanced dendritic cell and germinal center responses were observed. Together, these data demonstrate that an LNP-encapsulated IL-12-MOP mRNA-encoded adjuvant can amplify immunogenicity independent of age, demonstrating translational potential to benefit vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron Brook
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Valerie Duval
- Combined Therapeutics Incorporated, Boston, MA 02135, USA
| | - Soumik Barman
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Cali Sweitzer
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Manisha Menon
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Pallab Ghosh
- Combined Therapeutics Incorporated, Boston, MA 02135, USA
| | - Kimia Abedi
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jacob Koster
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Etsuro Nanishi
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lindsey R Baden
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ofer Levy
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Thomas VanCott
- Combined Therapeutics Incorporated, Boston, MA 02135, USA
| | - Romain Micol
- Combined Therapeutics Incorporated, Boston, MA 02135, USA
| | - David J Dowling
- Precision Vaccines Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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49
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Hendricks GG, Grigoryan L, Navarro MJ, Catanzaro NJ, Hubbard ML, Powers JM, Mattocks M, Treichel C, Walls AC, Lee J, Ellis D, Wang JY(J, Cheng S, Miranda MC, Valdez A, Chao CW, Chan S, Men C, Johnson MR, Hui H, Wu SY, Lujan V, Muramatsu H, Lin PJ, Sung MM, Tam YK, Leaf EM, Pardi N, Baric RS, Pulendran B, Veesler D, Schäfer A, King NP. Computationally designed mRNA-launched protein nanoparticle vaccines. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.22.604655. [PMID: 39091730 PMCID: PMC11291046 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.22.604655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Both protein nanoparticle and mRNA vaccines were clinically de-risked during the COVID-19 pandemic1-6. These vaccine modalities have complementary strengths: antigen display on protein nanoparticles can enhance the magnitude, quality, and durability of antibody responses7-10, while mRNA vaccines can be rapidly manufactured11 and elicit antigen-specific CD4 and CD8 T cells12,13. Here we leverage a computationally designed icosahedral protein nanoparticle that was redesigned for optimal secretion from eukaryotic cells14 to develop an mRNA-launched nanoparticle vaccine for SARS-CoV-2. The nanoparticle, which displays 60 copies of a stabilized variant of the Wuhan-Hu-1 Spike receptor binding domain (RBD)15, formed monodisperse, antigenically intact assemblies upon secretion from transfected cells. An mRNA vaccine encoding the secreted RBD nanoparticle elicited 5- to 28-fold higher levels of neutralizing antibodies than an mRNA vaccine encoding membrane-anchored Spike, induced higher levels of CD8 T cells than the same immunogen when delivered as an adjuvanted protein nanoparticle, and protected mice from vaccine-matched and -mismatched SARS-CoV-2 challenge. Our data establish that delivering protein nanoparticle immunogens via mRNA vaccines can combine the benefits of each modality and, more broadly, highlight the utility of computational protein design in genetic immunization strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace G. Hendricks
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lilit Grigoryan
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mary Jane Navarro
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nicholas J. Catanzaro
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Miranda L. Hubbard
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - John M. Powers
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Melissa Mattocks
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Catherine Treichel
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alexandra C. Walls
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jimin Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Daniel Ellis
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jing Yang (John) Wang
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Suna Cheng
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Marcos C. Miranda
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Adian Valdez
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cara W. Chao
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sidney Chan
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Christine Men
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Max R. Johnson
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Harold Hui
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sheng-Yang Wu
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Victor Lujan
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hiromi Muramatsu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Elizabeth M. Leaf
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ralph S. Baric
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bali Pulendran
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Veesler
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Alexandra Schäfer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Neil P. King
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Lead contact
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Dahl LOS, Hak S, Braaen S, Molska A, Rodà F, Parot J, Wessel Ø, Fosse JH, Bjørgen H, Borgos SE, Rimstad E. Implementation of mRNA-Lipid Nanoparticle Technology in Atlantic Salmon ( Salmo salar). Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:788. [PMID: 39066426 PMCID: PMC11281423 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12070788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was conducted to investigate whether mRNA vaccine technology could be adapted for the ectothermic vertebrate Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology has been developed and optimized for mRNA vaccines in mammals, stabilizing mRNA and facilitating its delivery into cells. However, its utility at the temperatures and specific biological environments present in ectotherms remains unclear. In addition, it is unknown if modified mRNA containing non-canonical nucleotides can correctly translate in salmonid cells. METHODS We used an mRNA transcript coding for enhanced green fluorescence protein, flanked by the untranslated regions of the hemagglutinin-esterase gene of the infectious salmon anemia virus, and a 120-base-long poly(A) tail. The mRNA was generated via in vitro transcription where uridine residues were replaced with N1-methyl-pseudouridines, and then encapsulated in LNPs. RESULTS When transfected into the salmonid cell line CHH-1, the mRNA-LNP construct induced expression of EGFP. Furthermore, when mRNA-LNPs were injected intramuscularly into salmon, in vivo protein expression was demonstrated via immunohistochemistry. EGFP was observed in cells infiltrating the spaces between muscle cells in a focal inflammatory response. CONCLUSION The results indicate that N1-methyl-pseudouridine-modified mRNA encapsulated in LNPs can be used to express antigens of interest in salmonid fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Ole Sti Dahl
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås, Norway; (L.O.S.D.); (S.B.); (Ø.W.); (H.B.)
| | - Sjoerd Hak
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, 7034 Trondheim, Norway; (S.H.); (A.M.); (F.R.); (J.P.); (S.E.B.)
| | - Stine Braaen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås, Norway; (L.O.S.D.); (S.B.); (Ø.W.); (H.B.)
| | - Alicja Molska
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, 7034 Trondheim, Norway; (S.H.); (A.M.); (F.R.); (J.P.); (S.E.B.)
| | - Francesca Rodà
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, 7034 Trondheim, Norway; (S.H.); (A.M.); (F.R.); (J.P.); (S.E.B.)
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Jeremie Parot
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, 7034 Trondheim, Norway; (S.H.); (A.M.); (F.R.); (J.P.); (S.E.B.)
| | - Øystein Wessel
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås, Norway; (L.O.S.D.); (S.B.); (Ø.W.); (H.B.)
| | | | - Håvard Bjørgen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås, Norway; (L.O.S.D.); (S.B.); (Ø.W.); (H.B.)
| | - Sven Even Borgos
- Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, 7034 Trondheim, Norway; (S.H.); (A.M.); (F.R.); (J.P.); (S.E.B.)
| | - Espen Rimstad
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås, Norway; (L.O.S.D.); (S.B.); (Ø.W.); (H.B.)
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