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O'Hara-Wright M, Gonzalez-Cordero A. Retinal organoids: a window into human retinal development. Development 2020; 147:147/24/dev189746. [PMID: 33361444 PMCID: PMC7774906 DOI: 10.1242/dev.189746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Retinal development and maturation are orchestrated by a series of interacting signalling networks that drive the morphogenetic transformation of the anterior developing brain. Studies in model organisms continue to elucidate these complex series of events. However, the human retina shows many differences from that of other organisms and the investigation of human eye development now benefits from stem cell-derived organoids. Retinal differentiation methods have progressed from simple 2D adherent cultures to self-organising micro-physiological systems. As models of development, these have collectively offered new insights into the previously unexplored early development of the human retina and informed our knowledge of the key cell fate decisions that govern the specification of light-sensitive photoreceptors. Although the developmental trajectories of other retinal cell types remain more elusive, the collation of omics datasets, combined with advanced culture methodology, will enable modelling of the intricate process of human retinogenesis and retinal disease in vitro. Summary: Retinal organoid systems derived from human pluripotent stem cells are micro-physiological systems that offer new insights into previously unexplored human retina development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle O'Hara-Wright
- Stem Cell Medicine Group, Children's Medical Research Institute, University of Sydney, Westmead, 2145, NSW, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Anai Gonzalez-Cordero
- Stem Cell Medicine Group, Children's Medical Research Institute, University of Sydney, Westmead, 2145, NSW, Australia .,School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, 2145, NSW, Australia
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52
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Tang Y, Yan Z, Lin S, Huntemann ED, Feng Z, Park SY, Sun X, Yuen E, Engelhardt JF. Repeat Dosing of AAV2.5T to Ferret Lungs Elicits an Antibody Response That Diminishes Transduction in an Age-Dependent Manner. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 19:186-200. [PMID: 33209961 PMCID: PMC7648090 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Readministration of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) may be necessary to treat cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease using gene therapy. However, little is known about rAAV-mediated immune responses in the lung. Here, we demonstrate the suitability of the ferret for testing AAV2.5T-mediated CFTR delivery to the lung and characterization of neutralizing-antibody (NAb) responses. AAV2.5T-SP183-hCFTRΔR efficiently transduced both human and ferret airway epithelial cultures and complemented CFTR Cl– currents in CF airway cultures. Delivery of AAV2.5T-hCFTRΔR to neonatal and juvenile ferret lungs produced hCFTR mRNA at 200%–300% greater levels than endogenous fCFTR. Single-dose (AAV2.5T-SP183-gLuc) or repeat dosing (AAV2.5T-SP183-fCFTRΔR followed by AAV2.5T-SP183-gLuc) of AAV2.5T was performed in neonatal and juvenile ferrets. Repeat dosing significantly reduced transgene expression (11-fold) and increased bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) NAbs only in juvenile, but not neonatal, ferrets, despite near-equivalent plasma NAb responses in both age groups. Notably, both age groups demonstrated a reduction in BALF anti-capsid binding immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgM, and IgA antibodies after repeat dosing. Unique to juvenile ferrets was a suppression of plasma anti-capsid-binding IgM after the second vector administration. Thus, age-dependent immune system maturation and isotype switching may affect the development of high-affinity lung NAbs after repeat dosing of AAV2.5T and may provide a path to blunt AAV-neutralizing responses in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghua Tang
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Ziying Yan
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Shen Lin
- Spirovant Science Inc., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Eric D Huntemann
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Zehua Feng
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Soo-Yeun Park
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Xingshen Sun
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Eric Yuen
- Spirovant Science Inc., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - John F Engelhardt
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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53
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Fu DJ, Allen EHA, Hickerson RP, Leslie Pedrioli DM, McLean WHI. Development of a Corneal Bioluminescence Mouse for Real-Time In Vivo Evaluation of Gene Therapies. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:44. [PMID: 33442498 PMCID: PMC7774114 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.13.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to develop and characterize a novel bioluminescence transgenic mouse model that facilitates rapid evaluation of genetic medicine delivery methods for inherited and acquired corneal diseases. Methods Corneal expression of the firefly luciferase transgene (luc2) was achieved via insertion into the Krt12 locus, a type I intermediate filament keratin that is exclusively expressed in the cornea, to generate the Krt12luc2 mouse. The transgene includes a multiple target cassette with human pathogenic mutations in K3 and K12. Results The Krt12luc2 mouse exclusively expresses luc2 in the corneal epithelium under control of the keratin K12 promoter. The luc2 protein is enzymatically active, can be readily visualized, and exhibits a symmetrically consistent readout. Moreover, structural integrity of the corneal epithelium is preserved in mice that are heterozygous for the luc2 transgene (Krt12+/luc2). Conclusions This novel Krt12luc2 mouse model represents a potentially ideal in vivo system for evaluating the efficacies of cornea-targeting gene therapies and for establishing and/or validating new delivery modalities. Importantly, the multiple targeting cassette that is included in the Luc2 transgene will greatly reduce mouse numbers required for in vivo therapy evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dun Jack Fu
- Centre for Dermatology and Genetic Medicine, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Edwin H. A. Allen
- Centre for Dermatology and Genetic Medicine, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Robyn P. Hickerson
- Centre for Dermatology and Genetic Medicine, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Deena M. Leslie Pedrioli
- Centre for Dermatology and Genetic Medicine, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
- Department of Molecular Mechanisms of Disease, University of Zürich Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - W. H. Irwin McLean
- Centre for Dermatology and Genetic Medicine, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
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54
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Karlsson J, Rhodes KR, Green JJ, Tzeng SY. Poly(beta-amino ester)s as gene delivery vehicles: challenges and opportunities. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2020; 17:1395-1410. [PMID: 32700581 PMCID: PMC7658038 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2020.1796628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gene delivery technologies are being developed for an increasing number of biomedical applications, with delivery vehicles including viruses and non-viral materials. Among biomaterials used for non-viral gene delivery, poly(beta-amino ester)s (PBAEs), a class of synthetic, biodegradable polymers, have risen as a leading gene delivery vehicle that has been used for multiple applications in vitro and in vivo. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes the key properties of PBAEs and their development, including a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of PBAEs for gene delivery applications. The use of PBAEs to improve the properties of other drug delivery vehicles is also summarized. EXPERT OPINION PBAEs are designed to have multiple characteristics that are ideal for gene delivery, including their reversible positive charge, which promotes binding to nucleic acids as well as imparting high buffering capacity, and their rapid degradability under mild conditions. Simultaneously, some of their properties also lead to nanoparticle instability and low transfection efficiency in physiological environments. The ease with which PBAEs can be chemically modified as well as non-covalently blended with other materials, however, allows them to be customized specifically to overcome delivery barriers for varied applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Karlsson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Kelly R. Rhodes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Jordan J. Green
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Departments of Materials Science and Engineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Departments of Oncology, Ophthalmology, and Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Bloomberg~Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Stephany Y. Tzeng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
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55
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Chen W, Hu Y, Ju D. Gene therapy for neurodegenerative disorders: advances, insights and prospects. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:1347-1359. [PMID: 32963936 PMCID: PMC7488363 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is rapidly emerging as a powerful therapeutic strategy for a wide range of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD). Some early clinical trials have failed to achieve satisfactory therapeutic effects. Efforts to enhance effectiveness are now concentrating on three major fields: identification of new vectors, novel therapeutic targets, and reliable of delivery routes for transgenes. These approaches are being assessed closely in preclinical and clinical trials, which may ultimately provide powerful treatments for patients. Here, we discuss advances and challenges of gene therapy for neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting promising technologies, targets, and future prospects.
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Key Words
- AADC, aromatic-l-amino-acid
- AAVs, adeno-associated viruses
- AD, Alzheimer's disease
- ARSA, arylsulfatase A
- ASOs, antisense oligonucleotides
- ASPA, aspartoacylase
- Adeno-associated viruses
- Adv, adenovirus
- BBB, blood–brain barrier
- BCSFB, blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier
- BRB, blood–retina barrier
- Bip, glucose regulated protein 78
- CHOP, CCAAT/enhancer binding homologous protein
- CLN6, ceroidlipofuscinosis neuronal protein 6
- CNS, central nervous system
- CSF, cerebrospinal fluid
- Central nervous system
- Delivery routes
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- GAA, lysosomal acid α-glucosidase
- GAD, glutamic acid decarboxylase
- GDNF, glial derived neurotrophic factor
- Gene therapy
- HD, Huntington's disease
- HSPGs, heparin sulfate proteoglycans
- HTT, mutant huntingtin
- IDS, iduronate 2-sulfatase
- LVs, retrovirus/lentivirus
- Lamp2a, lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2a
- NGF, nerve growth factor
- Neurodegenerative disorders
- PD, Parkinson's disease
- PGRN, Progranulin
- PINK1, putative kinase 1
- PTEN, phosphatase and tensin homolog
- RGCs, retinal ganglion cells
- RNAi, RNA interference
- RPE, retinal pigmented epithelial
- SGSH, lysosomal heparan-N-sulfamidase gene
- SMN, survival motor neuron
- SOD, superoxide dismutase
- SUMF, sulfatase-modifying factor
- TFEB, transcription factor EB
- TPP1, tripeptidyl peptidase 1
- TREM2, triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2
- UPR, unfolded protein response
- ZFPs, zinc finger proteins
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- siRNA, small interfering RNA
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Department of Biological Medicines, Fudan University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai 201203, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Dianwen Ju
- Department of Biological Medicines, Fudan University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai 201203, China
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56
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Garafalo AV, Cideciyan AV, Héon E, Sheplock R, Pearson A, WeiYang Yu C, Sumaroka A, Aguirre GD, Jacobson SG. Progress in treating inherited retinal diseases: Early subretinal gene therapy clinical trials and candidates for future initiatives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 77:100827. [PMID: 31899291 PMCID: PMC8714059 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Due to improved phenotyping and genetic characterization, the field of 'incurable' and 'blinding' inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) has moved substantially forward. Decades of ascertainment of IRD patient data from Philadelphia and Toronto centers illustrate the progress from Mendelian genetic types to molecular diagnoses. Molecular genetics have been used not only to clarify diagnoses and to direct counseling but also to enable the first clinical trials of gene-based treatment in these diseases. An overview of the recent reports of gene augmentation clinical trials by subretinal injections is used to reflect on the reasons why there has been limited success in this early venture into therapy. These first-in human experiences have taught that there is a need for advancing the techniques of delivery of the gene products - not only for refining further subretinal trials, but also for evaluating intravitreal delivery. Candidate IRDs for intravitreal gene delivery are then suggested to illustrate some of the disorders that may be amenable to improvement of remaining central vision with the least photoreceptor trauma. A more detailed understanding of the human IRDs to be considered for therapy and the calculated potential for efficacy should be among the routine prerequisites for initiating a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra V Garafalo
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Artur V Cideciyan
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Elise Héon
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Sheplock
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Alexander Pearson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Caberry WeiYang Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexander Sumaroka
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Gustavo D Aguirre
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Samuel G Jacobson
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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57
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Tornabene P, Trapani I, Minopoli R, Centrulo M, Lupo M, de Simone S, Tiberi P, Dell'Aquila F, Marrocco E, Iodice C, Iuliano A, Gesualdo C, Rossi S, Giaquinto L, Albert S, Hoyng CB, Polishchuk E, Cremers FPM, Surace EM, Simonelli F, De Matteis MA, Polishchuk R, Auricchio A. Intein-mediated protein trans-splicing expands adeno-associated virus transfer capacity in the retina. Sci Transl Med 2020; 11:11/492/eaav4523. [PMID: 31092694 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aav4523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Retinal gene therapy with adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors holds promises for treating inherited and noninherited diseases of the eye. Although clinical data suggest that retinal gene therapy is safe and effective, delivery of large genes is hindered by the limited AAV cargo capacity. Protein trans-splicing mediated by split inteins is used by single-cell organisms to reconstitute proteins. Here, we show that delivery of multiple AAV vectors each encoding one of the fragments of target proteins flanked by short split inteins results in protein trans-splicing and full-length protein reconstitution in the retina of mice and pigs and in human retinal organoids. The reconstitution of large therapeutic proteins using this approach improved the phenotype of two mouse models of inherited retinal diseases. Our data support the use of split intein-mediated protein trans-splicing in combination with AAV subretinal delivery for gene therapy of inherited blindness due to mutations in large genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Tornabene
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Ivana Trapani
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.,Medical Genetics, Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Renato Minopoli
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Miriam Centrulo
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Mariangela Lupo
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Sonia de Simone
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Paola Tiberi
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Fabio Dell'Aquila
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Elena Marrocco
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Carolina Iodice
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Antonella Iuliano
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania L. Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania L. Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Giaquinto
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Albert
- Department of Human Genetics and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carel B Hoyng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Elena Polishchuk
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Frans P M Cremers
- Department of Ophthalmology and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Enrico M Surace
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.,Medical Genetics, Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania L. Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria A De Matteis
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, Federico II University, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roman Polishchuk
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Alberto Auricchio
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy. .,Department of Advanced Biomedicine, Federico II University, 80131 Naples, Italy
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58
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Kruczek K, Swaroop A. Pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoids for disease modeling and development of therapies. Stem Cells 2020; 38:1206-1215. [PMID: 32506758 PMCID: PMC7586922 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Retinal diseases constitute a genetically and phenotypically diverse group of clinical conditions leading to vision impairment or blindness with limited treatment options. Advances in reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells and generation of three‐dimensional organoids resembling the native retina offer promising tools to interrogate disease mechanisms and evaluate potential therapies for currently incurable retinal neurodegeneration. Next‐generation sequencing, single‐cell analysis, advanced electrophysiology, and high‐throughput screening approaches are expected to greatly expand the utility of stem cell‐derived retinal cells and organoids for developing personalized treatments. In this review, we discuss the current status and future potential of combining retinal organoids as human models with recent technologies to advance the development of gene, cell, and drug therapies for retinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Kruczek
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Anand Swaroop
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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59
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McClements ME, Barnard AR, Charbel Issa P, MacLaren RE. Assessment of AAV Dual Vector Safety in the Abca4-/- Mouse Model of Stargardt Disease. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:20. [PMID: 32724727 PMCID: PMC7115835 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.7.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Adeno-associated viral (AAV) gene therapy treatment for Stargardt disease currently requires a dual vector approach owing to the size of the ATP-binding cassette transporter family member gene (ABCA4). The nature of the dual vector system creates the potential for adverse events. Here we have investigated an overlapping adeno-associated viral ABCA4 dual vector system for signs of toxicity in Abca4-/- mice as a prelude to dual vector first in human clinical trials. Methods Abca4-/- mice received a subretinal injection of a 1:1 5':3' dual vector mix; 5' vector only; 3 ' vector only; a GFP reporter vector; or diluent only (sham). All vectors were adeno-associated virus-8 Y733F. Mice were subsequently assessed for signs of toxicity as measured by loss in retinal structure by optical coherence tomography and retinal function by electroretinography up to 6 months after injection. Results Subretinal delivery of the dual vector system and its comprising parts induced no structural or functional changes relative to paired uninjected eyes beyond those observed in the sham control cohort. Histologic changes were limited to the superior retina where the injection was performed. Electroretinography analysis confirmed the dual vector system inferred no functional changes beyond those observed in the sham control cohort. Conclusions An optimized overlapping dual vector system for the treatment of Stargardt disease shows no additional signs of toxicity beyond those observed from a sham injection. Translational Relevance This presentation of safety of a dual vector system for the treatment of Stargardt disease encourages its future use in clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle E. McClements
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Ophthalmology, Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Alun R. Barnard
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Ophthalmology, Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Robert E. MacLaren
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Ophthalmology, Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford, UK
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60
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Kostic M, Jones LH. Critical Assessment of Targeted Protein Degradation as a Research Tool and Pharmacological Modality. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:305-317. [PMID: 32222318 PMCID: PMC7202367 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Small molecules continue to dominate drug discovery because of their ease of use, lower cost of manufacturing, and access to intracellular targets. However, despite these advantages, small molecules are more likely to fail in clinical trials compared with biologicals and their development remains limited to a small subset of disease-relevant 'druggable' targets. Targeted protein degradation has recently emerged as a novel pharmacological modality that promises to overcome small molecule limitations whilst retaining their key advantages. Here, we use a Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) framework to critically assess the current status of this rapidly evolving field. We expect that degrader molecules are only the beginning of a range of novel targeting modalities that hijack existing endogenous cellular machineries to chemically redirect biological targets and pathways. Therefore, this piece may offer a roadmap for enhancing development of both degraders and related modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milka Kostic
- Department of Cancer Biology and Chemical Biology Program, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Lyn H Jones
- Center for Protein Degradation, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 360 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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61
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Huang SS. Future Vision 2020 and Beyond-5 Critical Trends in Eye Research. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2020; 9:180-185. [PMID: 32501897 PMCID: PMC7299218 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ophthalmology has been at the forefront of many innovations in basic science and clinical research. The randomized prospective multicenter clinical trial, comparative clinical trials, the bench to beside development of diagnostic and therapeutic devices, the powerful combination of biostatistics and epidemiology, gene therapy, cell-based therapy, stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine, artificial intelligence, and the development of personalized molecular medicine continue to propel us forward. This article summarizes several critical trends in eye research.Innovative translational research continues to bring new solutions to blinding retinal diseases. The discovery of the genetic code presaged a day when the development of molecular tools and understanding of the basis of disease would lead not only to disease management but potentially lifelong cure. After decades of investigation, gene therapy is now a reality for a single autosomal recessive bi-allelic disease, Lebers Congenital Amaurosis. Its success has paved the way for a myriad of conditions once thought to be untreatable. In parallel, the progress to utilize pluripotential stem cells, immunomodulation, computational biology, and continued investigation into the fundamental mechanisms of cell and molecular biology is breathtaking in its rapidity. The next decade is likely to be the most exciting in the history of medicine. It will be essential that research progresses in a meticulously thoughtful, ethical, and collaborative process that safeguards the trust of our work and that of the society we serve.Presented as the International Award Lecture, Asia-Pacific Vitreoretinal Society meeting, November 2019, Shanghai China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suber S. Huang
- Retina Center of Ohio, Cleveland, OH
- National Eye Health Education Program Steering Committee, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL
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62
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Hirakawa M, Krishnakumar R, Timlin J, Carney J, Butler K. Gene editing and CRISPR in the clinic: current and future perspectives. Biosci Rep 2020; 40:BSR20200127. [PMID: 32207531 PMCID: PMC7146048 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20200127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome editing technologies, particularly those based on zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat DNA sequences)/Cas9 are rapidly progressing into clinical trials. Most clinical use of CRISPR to date has focused on ex vivo gene editing of cells followed by their re-introduction back into the patient. The ex vivo editing approach is highly effective for many disease states, including cancers and sickle cell disease, but ideally genome editing would also be applied to diseases which require cell modification in vivo. However, in vivo use of CRISPR technologies can be confounded by problems such as off-target editing, inefficient or off-target delivery, and stimulation of counterproductive immune responses. Current research addressing these issues may provide new opportunities for use of CRISPR in the clinical space. In this review, we examine the current status and scientific basis of clinical trials featuring ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR-based genome editing, the known limitations of CRISPR use in humans, and the rapidly developing CRISPR engineering space that should lay the groundwork for further translation to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raga Krishnakumar
- Systems Biology, Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, CA 94551, U.S.A
| | - Jerilyn A. Timlin
- Molecular and Microbiology, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM 87185, U.S.A
| | - James P. Carney
- Advanced Materials Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM 87185, U.S.A
| | - Kimberly S. Butler
- Molecular and Microbiology, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM 87185, U.S.A
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63
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Liu Y, Hegarty S, Winter C, Wang F, He Z. Viral vectors for neuronal cell type-specific visualization and manipulations. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2020; 63:67-76. [PMID: 32344323 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Characterizing neuronal cell types demands efficient strategies for specific labeling and manipulation of individual subtypes to dissect their connectivity and functions. Recombinant viral technology offers a powerful toolbox for targeted transgene expression in specific neuronal populations. In order to achieve cell type-specific targeting, exciting progress has been made to: alter viral tropisms, design rational delivery strategies, and drive selective expression patterns with engineered DNA sequences in viral genomes. For the latter case, emerging single-cell genomic analyses provide rich databases. In this review, we will summarize current status, and point out challenges, of using viral vectors for neuronal cell type-specific visualization and manipulations. With concerted efforts, progress will continue to be made toward developing viral vectors for the vast array of neuronal subtypes in the mammalian nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Liu
- Somatosensation and Pain Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), MD, USA
| | - Shane Hegarty
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center and Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carla Winter
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center and Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; PhD Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fan Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Zhigang He
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center and Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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64
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Wu KC, Lv JN, Yang H, Yang FM, Lin R, Lin Q, Shen RJ, Wang JB, Duan WH, Hu M, Zhang J, He ZL, Jin ZB. Nonhuman Primate Model of Oculocutaneous Albinism with TYR and OCA2 Mutations. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2020; 2020:1658678. [PMID: 32259106 PMCID: PMC7086374 DOI: 10.34133/2020/1658678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Human visual acuity is anatomically determined by the retinal fovea. The ontogenetic development of the fovea can be seriously hindered by oculocutaneous albinism (OCA), which is characterized by a disorder of melanin synthesis. Although people of all ethnic backgrounds can be affected, no efficient treatments for OCA have been developed thus far, due partly to the lack of effective animal models. Rhesus macaques are genetically homologous to humans and, most importantly, exhibit structures of the macula and fovea that are similar to those of humans; thus, rhesus macaques present special advantages in the modeling and study of human macular and foveal diseases. In this study, we identified rhesus macaque models with clinical characteristics consistent with those of OCA patients according to observations of ocular behavior, fundus examination, and optical coherence tomography. Genomic sequencing revealed a biallelic p.L312I mutation in TYR and a homozygous p.S788L mutation in OCA2, both of which were further confirmed to affect melanin biosynthesis via in vitro assays. These rhesus macaque models of OCA will be useful animal resources for studying foveal development and for preclinical trials of new therapies for OCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Chao Wu
- Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ji-Neng Lv
- Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Feng-Mei Yang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, And Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research Development on Severe Infectious Disease, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Rui Lin
- Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Qiang Lin
- Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ren-Juan Shen
- Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Jun-Bin Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, And Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research Development on Severe Infectious Disease, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Wen-Hua Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province for the Prevention and Treatment of Ophthalmology, Kunming 650021, China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province for the Prevention and Treatment of Ophthalmology, Kunming 650021, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology & Disease, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Zhan-Long He
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, And Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research Development on Severe Infectious Disease, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou 325027, China
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65
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Trapani I, Auricchio A. Has retinal gene therapy come of age? From bench to bedside and back to bench. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 28:R108-R118. [PMID: 31238338 PMCID: PMC6797000 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal gene therapy has advanced considerably in the past three decades. Initial efforts have been devoted to comprehensively explore and optimize the transduction abilities of gene delivery vectors, define the appropriate intraocular administration routes and obtain evidence of efficacy in animal models of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). Successful translation in clinical trials of the initial promising proof-of-concept studies led to the important milestone of the first approved product for retinal gene therapy in both US and Europe. The unprecedented clinical development observed during the last decade in the field is however highlighting new challenges that will need to be overcome to bring gene therapy to fruition to a larger patient population within and beyond the realm of IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Trapani
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Medical Genetics, Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Auricchio
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli, Italy.,Department of Advanced Biomedicine, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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66
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Puertas-Neyra K, Usategui-Martín R, Coco RM, Fernandez-Bueno I. Intravitreal stem cell paracrine properties as a potential neuroprotective therapy for retinal photoreceptor neurodegenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:1631-1638. [PMID: 32209762 PMCID: PMC7437593 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.276324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerations are the leading causes of irreversible visual loss worldwide. Many pathologies included under this umbrella involve progressive degeneration and ultimate loss of the photoreceptor cells, with age-related macular degeneration and inherited and ischemic retinal diseases the most relevant. These diseases greatly impact patients’ daily lives, with accompanying marked social and economic consequences. However, the currently available treatments only delay the onset or slow progression of visual impairment, and there are no cures for these photoreceptor diseases. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies are being investigated, such as gene therapy, optogenetics, cell replacement, or cell-based neuroprotection. Specifically, stem cells can secrete neurotrophic, immunomodulatory, and anti-angiogenic factors that potentially protect and preserve retinal cells from neurodegeneration. Further, neuroprotection can be used in different types of retinal degenerative diseases and at different disease stages, unlike other potential therapies. This review summarizes stem cell-based paracrine neuroprotective strategies for photoreceptor degeneration, which are under study in clinical trials, and the latest preclinical studies. Effective retinal neuroprotection could be the next frontier in photoreceptor diseases, and the development of novel neuroprotective strategies will address the unmet therapeutic needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Puertas-Neyra
- Instituto Universitario de Oftalmobiología Aplicada, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Usategui-Martín
- Instituto Universitario de Oftalmobiología Aplicada, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Rosa M Coco
- Instituto Universitario de Oftalmobiología Aplicada, Universidad de Valladolid; Centro en Red de Medicina Regenerativa y Terapia Celular de Castilla y León; Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud, Oftared, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Ivan Fernandez-Bueno
- Instituto Universitario de Oftalmobiología Aplicada, Universidad de Valladolid; Centro en Red de Medicina Regenerativa y Terapia Celular de Castilla y León; Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa en Salud, Oftared, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Valladolid, Spain
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67
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Analysis of hepatic and retinal cell microRNAome during AAV infection reveals their diverse impact on viral transduction and cellular physiology. Gene 2020; 724:144157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.144157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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68
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Ji C, Li Y, Kittredge A, Hopiavuori A, Ward N, Yao P, Fukuda Y, Zhang Y, Tsang SH, Yang T. Investigation and Restoration of BEST1 Activity in Patient-derived RPEs with Dominant Mutations. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19026. [PMID: 31836750 PMCID: PMC6910965 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54892-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BEST1 is a Ca2+-activated Cl- channel predominantly expressed in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and over 250 genetic mutations in the BEST1 gene have been identified to cause retinal degenerative disorders generally known as bestrophinopathies. As most BEST1 mutations are autosomal dominant, it is of great biomedical interest to determine their disease-causing mechanisms and the therapeutic potential of gene therapy. Here, we characterized six Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD)-associated BEST1 dominant mutations by documenting the patients' phenotypes, examining the subcellular localization of endogenous BEST1 and surface Ca2+-dependent Cl- currents in patient-derived RPEs, and analyzing the functional influences of these mutations on BEST1 in HEK293 cells. We found that all six mutations are loss-of-function with different levels and types of deficiencies, and further demonstrated the restoration of Ca2+-dependent Cl- currents in patient-derived RPE cells by WT BEST1 gene supplementation. Importantly, BEST1 dominant and recessive mutations are both rescuable at a similar efficacy by gene augmentation via adeno-associated virus (AAV), providing a proof-of-concept for curing the vast majority of bestrophinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changyi Ji
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Yao Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Alec Kittredge
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Austin Hopiavuori
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Nancy Ward
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Peng Yao
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, 14586, USA
| | - Yohta Fukuda
- Division of Advance Pharmaco-Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 1-6, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care, and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Departments of Ophthalmology and Pathology & Cell Biology, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, New York Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Tingting Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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69
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Ataluren for the Treatment of Usher Syndrome 2A Caused by Nonsense Mutations. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246274. [PMID: 31842393 PMCID: PMC6940777 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of genetic defects that underlie inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) paves the way for the development of therapeutic strategies. Nonsense mutations caused approximately 12% of all IRD cases, resulting in a premature termination codon (PTC). Therefore, an approach that targets nonsense mutations could be a promising pharmacogenetic strategy for the treatment of IRDs. Small molecules (translational read-through inducing drugs; TRIDs) have the potential to mediate the read-through of nonsense mutations by inducing expression of the full-length protein. We provide novel data on the read-through efficacy of Ataluren on a nonsense mutation in the Usher syndrome gene USH2A that causes deaf-blindness in humans. We demonstrate Ataluren´s efficacy in both transiently USH2AG3142*-transfected HEK293T cells and patient-derived fibroblasts by restoring USH2A protein expression. Furthermore, we observed enhanced ciliogenesis in patient-derived fibroblasts after treatment with TRIDs, thereby restoring a phenotype that is similar to that found in healthy donors. In light of recent findings, we validated Ataluren´s efficacy to induce read-through on a nonsense mutation in USH2A-related IRD. In line with published data, our findings support the use of patient-derived fibroblasts as a platform for the validation of preclinical therapies. The excellent biocompatibility combined with sustained read-through efficacy makes Ataluren an ideal TRID for treating nonsense mutations based IRDs.
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70
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Gao J, Mese K, Bunz O, Ehrhardt A. State‐of‐the‐art human adenovirus vectorology for therapeutic approaches. FEBS Lett 2019; 593:3609-3622. [DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Gao
- Faculty of Health Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF) School of Human Medicine Institute of Virology and Microbiology Witten/Herdecke University Germany
| | - Kemal Mese
- Faculty of Health Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF) School of Human Medicine Institute of Virology and Microbiology Witten/Herdecke University Germany
| | - Oskar Bunz
- Faculty of Health Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF) School of Human Medicine Institute of Virology and Microbiology Witten/Herdecke University Germany
| | - Anja Ehrhardt
- Faculty of Health Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF) School of Human Medicine Institute of Virology and Microbiology Witten/Herdecke University Germany
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71
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Martin JF, Poché RA. Awakening the regenerative potential of the mammalian retina. Development 2019; 146:146/23/dev182642. [PMID: 31792065 DOI: 10.1242/dev.182642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As with all glial cells, the major role of retinal Müller glia (MG) is to provide essential neuronal support. However, the MG of some non-mammalian species have the additional ability to generate new retinal neurons capable of sight restoration. Unfortunately, mammalian MG do not possess this ability. However, if we could understand the reasons why, we may be able to devise strategies to confer regenerative potential. The recent discovery that the Hippo signaling pathway acts as an intrinsic block to mammalian MG proliferation, along with reports of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based MG reprogramming and functional photoreceptor differentiation, may indicate a watershed moment in the field of mammalian retinal regeneration. However, as researchers delve deeper into the cellular and molecular mechanisms, and further refine MG reprogramming strategies, we should recall past misinterpretations of data in this field and proceed with caution. Here, we provide a summary of these emerging data and a discussion of technical concerns specific to AAV-mediated reprogramming experiments that must be addressed in order for the field to move forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- James F Martin
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Development, Disease Models and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Cardiovasular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Texas Heart Institute, Cardiomyocyte Renewal Lab, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ross A Poché
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA .,Development, Disease Models and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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72
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Karali M, Guadagnino I, Marrocco E, De Cegli R, Carissimo A, Pizzo M, Casarosa S, Conte I, Surace EM, Banfi S. AAV-miR-204 Protects from Retinal Degeneration by Attenuation of Microglia Activation and Photoreceptor Cell Death. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 19:144-156. [PMID: 31837604 PMCID: PMC6920266 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) represent a frequent cause of genetic blindness. Their high genetic heterogeneity hinders the application of gene-specific therapies to the vast majority of patients. We recently demonstrated that the microRNA miR-204 is essential for retinal function, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of miR-204 in IRDs. We subretinally delivered an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector carrying the miR-204 precursor to two genetically different IRD mouse models. The administration of AAV-miR-204 preserved retinal function in a mouse model for a dominant form of retinitis pigmentosa (RHO-P347S). This was associated with a reduction of apoptotic photoreceptor cells and with a better preservation of photoreceptor marker expression. Transcriptome analysis showed that miR-204 shifts expression profiles of transgenic retinas toward those of healthy retinas by the downregulation of microglia activation and photoreceptor cell death. Delivery of miR-204 exerted neuroprotective effects also in a mouse model of Leber congenital amaurosis, due to mutations of the Aipl1 gene. Our study highlights the mutation-independent therapeutic potential of AAV-miR204 in slowing down retinal degeneration in IRDs and unveils the previously unreported role of this miRNA in attenuating microglia activation and photoreceptor cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianthi Karali
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy; Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli,' via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples (NA), Italy
| | - Irene Guadagnino
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Elena Marrocco
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Rossella De Cegli
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Annamaria Carissimo
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Mariateresa Pizzo
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Simona Casarosa
- Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy; CNR Neuroscience Institute, via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ivan Conte
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy
| | - Enrico Maria Surace
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy; Department of Translational Medicine, 'Federico II' University, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Sandro Banfi
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli (NA), Italy; Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli,' via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples (NA), Italy.
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Falasconi A, Biagioni M, Novelli E, Piano I, Gargini C, Strettoi E. Retinal Phenotype in the rd9 Mutant Mouse, a Model of X-Linked RP. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:991. [PMID: 31607844 PMCID: PMC6761883 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration 9 (rd9) mice carry a mutation in the retina specific “Retinitis Pigmentosa GTPase Regulator (RPGR)” Open Reading Frame (ORF) 15 gene, located on the X chromosome and represent a rare model of X-linked Retinitis Pigmentosa (XLRP), a common and severe form of retinal degeneration (Wright et al., 2010; Tsang and Sharma, 2018). The rd9 RPGR-ORF15 mutation in mice causes lack of the protein in photoreceptors and a slow degeneration of these cells with consequent decrease in Outer Nuclear Layer (ONL) thickness and amplitude of ERG responses, as previously described (Thompson et al., 2012). However, relative rates of rod and cone photoreceptor loss, as well as secondary alterations occurring in neuronal and non-neuronal retinal cell types of rd9 mutants remain to be assessed. Aim of this study is to extend phenotype analysis of the rd9 mouse retina focusing on changes occurring in cells directly interacting with photoreceptors. To this purpose, first we estimated rod and cone survival and its degree of intraretinal variation over time; then, we studied the morphology of horizontal and bipolar cells and of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), extending our observations to glial cell reactivity. We found that in rd9 retinas rod (but not cone) death is the main cause of decrease in ONL thickness and that degeneration shows a high degree of intraretinal variation. Rod loss drives remodeling in the outer retina, with sprouting of second-order neurons of the rod-pathway and relative sparing of cone pathway elements. Remarkably, despite cone survival, functional defects can be clearly detected in ERG recordings in both scotopic and photopic conditions. Moderate levels of Muller cells and microglial reactivity are sided by striking attenuation of staining for RPE tight junctions, suggesting altered integrity of the outer Blood Retina Barrier (BRB). Because of many features resembling slowly progressing photoreceptor degeneration paradigms or early stages of more aggressive forms of RP, the rd9 mouse model can be considered a rare and useful tool to investigate retinal changes associated to a process of photoreceptor death sustained throughout life and to reveal disease biomarkers (e.g., BRB alterations) of human XLRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Falasconi
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy.,Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa, Italy
| | - Martina Biagioni
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Novelli
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Ilaria Piano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Enrica Strettoi
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
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Ballesteros-Briones MC, Martisova E, Casales E, Silva-Pilipich N, Buñuales M, Galindo J, Mancheño U, Gorraiz M, Lasarte JJ, Kochan G, Escors D, Sanchez-Paulete AR, Melero I, Prieto J, Hernandez-Alcoceba R, Hervas-Stubbs S, Smerdou C. Short-Term Local Expression of a PD-L1 Blocking Antibody from a Self-Replicating RNA Vector Induces Potent Antitumor Responses. Mol Ther 2019; 27:1892-1905. [PMID: 31563534 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade has shown anti-cancer efficacy, but requires systemic administration of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), often leading to adverse effects. To avoid toxicity, mAbs could be expressed locally in tumors. We developed adeno-associated virus (AAV) and Semliki Forest virus (SFV) vectors expressing anti-programmed death ligand 1 (aPDL1) mAb. When injected intratumorally in MC38 tumors, both viral vectors led to similar local mAb expression at 24 h, diminishing quickly in SFV-aPDL1-treated tumors. However, SFV-aPDL1 induced >40% complete regressions and was superior to AAV-aPDL1, as well as to aPDL1 mAb given systemically or locally. SFV-aPDL1 induced abscopal effects and was also efficacious against B16-ovalbumin (OVA). The higher SFV-aPDL1 antitumor activity could be related to local upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes because of SFV RNA replication. This was confirmed by combining local SFV-LacZ administration and systemic aPDL1 mAb, which provided higher antitumor effects than each separated agent. SFV-aPDL1 promoted tumor-specific CD8 T cells infiltration in both tumor models. In MC38, SFV-aPDL1 upregulated co-stimulatory markers (CD137/OX40) in tumor CD8 T cells, and its combination with anti-CD137 mAb showed more pronounced antitumor effects than each single agent. These results indicate that local transient expression of immunomodulatory mAbs using non-propagative RNA vectors inducing type I interferon (IFN-I) responses represents a potent and safe approach for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Ballesteros-Briones
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eva Martisova
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Erkuden Casales
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Noelia Silva-Pilipich
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria Buñuales
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Javier Galindo
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Uxua Mancheño
- Division of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Marta Gorraiz
- Division of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan J Lasarte
- Division of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Grazyna Kochan
- Department of Oncology, Navarrabiomed-Biomedical Research Centre, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - David Escors
- Department of Oncology, Navarrabiomed-Biomedical Research Centre, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alfonso R Sanchez-Paulete
- Division of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Melero
- Division of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesus Prieto
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ruben Hernandez-Alcoceba
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Hervas-Stubbs
- Division of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Cristian Smerdou
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
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Mishra B, Wilson DR, Sripathi SR, Suprenant MP, Rui Y, Wahlin KJ, Berlinicke CA, Green JJ, Zack DJ. A combinatorial library of biodegradable polyesters enables non-viral gene delivery to post-mitotic human stem cell-derived polarized RPE monolayers. REGENERATIVE ENGINEERING AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2019; 6:273-285. [PMID: 33732871 PMCID: PMC7962803 DOI: 10.1007/s40883-019-00118-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Safe and effective delivery of DNA to post-mitotic cells, especially highly differentiated cells, remains a challenge despite significant progress in the development of gene delivery tools. Biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) offer an array of advantages for gene delivery over viral vectors due to improved safety, carrying capacity, ease of manufacture, and cell-type specificity. Here we demonstrate the use of a high-throughput screening (HTS) platform to synthesize and screen a library of 148 biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles, successfully identifying structures that enable efficient transfection of human pluripotent stem cell differentiated human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells with minimal toxicity. These NPs can deliver plasmid DNA (pDNA) to RPE monolayers more efficiently than leading commercially available transfection reagents. Novel synthetic polymers are described that enable high efficacy non-viral gene delivery to hard-to-transfect polarized human RPE monolayers, enabling gene loss- and gain-of-function studies of cell signaling, developmental, and disease-related pathways. One new synthetic polymer in particular, 3,3'-iminobis(N,N-dimethylpropylamine)-end terminated poly(1,5-pentanediol diacrylate-co-3 amino-1-propanol) (5-3-J12), was found to form self-assembled nanoparticles when mixed with plasmid DNA that transfect a majority of these human post-mitotic cells with minimal cytotoxicity. The platform described here can be utilized as an enabling technology for gene transfer to human primary and stem cell-derived cells, which are often fragile and resistant to conventional gene transfer approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibhudatta Mishra
- Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - David R. Wilson
- Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21231, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - Srinivas R. Sripathi
- Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - Mark P. Suprenant
- Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21231, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - Yuan Rui
- Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21231, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - Karl J. Wahlin
- Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - Cynthia A. Berlinicke
- Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - Jordan J. Green
- Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21231, United States
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
| | - Donald J. Zack
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
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76
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Laird JG, Gardner SH, Kopel AJ, Kerov V, Lee A, Baker SA. Rescue of Rod Synapses by Induction of Cav Alpha 1F in the Mature Cav1.4 Knock-Out Mouse Retina. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:3150-3161. [PMID: 31335952 PMCID: PMC6656410 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Cav1.4 is a voltage-gated calcium channel clustered at the presynaptic active zones of photoreceptors. Cav1.4 functions in communication by mediating the Ca2+ influx that triggers neurotransmitter release. It also aids in development since rod ribbon synapses do not form in Cav1.4 knock-out mice. Here we used a rescue strategy to investigate the ability of Cav1.4 to trigger synaptogenesis in both immature and mature mouse rods. Methods In vivo electroporation was used to transiently express Cav α1F or tamoxifen-inducible Cav α1F in a subset of Cav1.4 knock-out mouse rods. Synaptogenesis was assayed using morphologic markers and a vision-guided water maze. Results We found that introduction of Cav α1F to knock-out terminals rescued synaptic development as indicated by PSD-95 expression and elongated ribbons. When expression of Cav α1F was induced in mature animals, we again found restoration of PSD-95 and elongated ribbons. However, the induced expression of Cav α1F led to diffuse distribution of Cav α1F in the terminal instead of being clustered beneath the ribbon. Approximately a quarter of treated animals passed the water maze test, suggesting the rescue of retinal signaling in these mice. Conclusions These data confirm that Cav α1F expression is necessary for rod synaptic terminal development and demonstrate that rescue is robust even in adult animals with late stages of synaptic disease. The degree of rod synaptic plasticity seen here should be sufficient to support future vision-restoring treatments such as gene or cell replacement that will require photoreceptor synaptic rewiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G. Laird
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
| | - Sarah H. Gardner
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
| | - Ariel J. Kopel
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
| | - Vasily Kerov
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
| | - Amy Lee
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
- Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
| | - Sheila A. Baker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and the Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
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77
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Devoldere J, Peynshaert K, Dewitte H, Vanhove C, De Groef L, Moons L, Özcan SY, Dalkara D, De Smedt SC, Remaut K. Non-viral delivery of chemically modified mRNA to the retina: Subretinal versus intravitreal administration. J Control Release 2019; 307:315-330. [PMID: 31265881 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
mRNA therapeutics have recently experienced a new wave of interest, mainly due to the discovery that chemical modifications to mRNA's molecular structure could drastically reduce its inherent immunogenicity and perceived instability. On this basis, we aimed to explore the potential of chemically stabilized mRNA for ocular applications. More specifically, we investigated the behavior of mRNA-loaded lipid-based carriers in human retinal cells (in vitro), in bovine retinal explants (ex vivo) and in mouse retinas (in vivo). We demonstrate a clear superiority of mRNA over pDNA to induce protein expression in different retinal cell types, which was further enhanced by chemical modification of the mRNA, providing up to ~1800-fold higher reporter gene expression compared to pDNA. Moreover, transgene expression could be detected for at least 20 days after a single administration of chemically modified mRNA in vitro. We furthermore determined the localization and extent of mRNA expression depending on the administration route. After subretinal (SR) administration, mRNA expression was observed in vivo and ex vivo. By contrast, intravitreal (IVT) administration resulted in limited expression in vivo. Using ex vivo bovine explants with an intact vitreoretinal (VR) interface we could attribute this to the inner limiting membrane (ILM), which presents a large barrier for non-viral delivery of mRNA, trapping mRNA complexes at the vitreal side. When the vitreous was removed, which compromises the ILM, mRNA expression was apparent and seemed to colocalize with Müller cells or photoreceptors after respectively IVT or SR administration. Taken together, this study represents a first step towards mRNA-mediated therapy for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joke Devoldere
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen Peynshaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Heleen Dewitte
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Medical School of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1050 Jette, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian Vanhove
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sinem Yilmaz Özcan
- Neurological Sciences and Psychiatry Institute; Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Ocular gene therapies in clinical practice: viral vectors and nonviral alternatives. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1685-1693. [PMID: 31173914 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ocular gene therapy has entered into clinical practice. Although viral vectors are currently the best option to replace and/or correct genes, the optimal method to deliver these treatments to the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and/or photoreceptor cells remains to be improved to increase transduction efficacy and reduce iatrogenic risks. Beyond viral-mediated gene replacement therapies, nonviral gene delivery approaches offer the promise of sustained fine-tuned expression of secreted therapeutic proteins that can be adapted to the evolving stage of the disease course and can address more common nongenetic retinal diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Here, we review current gene therapy strategies for ocular diseases, with a focus on clinical stage products.
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Hori T, Fukutome M, Maejima C, Matsushima H, Kobayashi K, Kitazawa S, Kitahara R, Kitano K, Kobayashi K, Moritoh S, Koike C. Gene delivery to cone photoreceptors by subretinal injection of rAAV2/6 in the mouse retina. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 515:222-227. [PMID: 31146917 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.05.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has been studied as a safe delivery tool for gene therapy of retinal blinding diseases such as Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA). The tropism of recombinant AAV (rAAV) including its specificity and efficiency in targeting retinal cell types has been studied with native or engineered capsids, along with specific promoters. However, one of the rAAV serotypes, rAAV2/6, has not been well-studied based on a report of low infection efficiency in the retina. We investigated the tropism of several rAAVs by subretinal injection in the adult mouse and found that rAAV2/6 predominantly infected cone photoreceptors including the main spectral type. Our data suggest that subretinal injection with rAAV2/6 may provide both an efficacious and specific means of gene delivery to cone photoreceptors in murine retinas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tesshu Hori
- Graduate School of Pharmacy, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Masashi Fukutome
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Chiseto Maejima
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Hiroki Matsushima
- Graduate School of Pharmacy, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Kensuke Kobayashi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Soichiro Kitazawa
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Ryo Kitahara
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Katsunori Kitano
- College of Information Science and Engineering, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; Center for Systems Vision Science, Research Organization of Science and Technology, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Satoru Moritoh
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; Center for Systems Vision Science, Research Organization of Science and Technology, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Chieko Koike
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan; Center for Systems Vision Science, Research Organization of Science and Technology, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan.
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Retinal miRNA Functions in Health and Disease. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10050377. [PMID: 31108959 PMCID: PMC6562649 DOI: 10.3390/genes10050377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The health and function of our visual system relies on accurate gene expression. While many genetic mutations are associated with visual impairment and blindness, we are just beginning to understand the complex interplay between gene regulation and retinal pathologies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs, are important regulators of gene expression that exert their function through post-transcriptional silencing of complementary mRNA targets. According to recent transcriptomic analyses, certain miRNA species are expressed in all retinal cell types, while others are cell type-specific. As miRNAs play important roles in homeostasis, cellular function, and survival of differentiated retinal cell types, their dysregulation is associated with retinal degenerative diseases. Thus, advancing our understanding of the genetic networks modulated by miRNAs is central to harnessing their potential as therapeutic agents to overcome visual impairment. In this review, we summarize the role of distinct miRNAs in specific retinal cell types, the current knowledge on their implication in inherited retinal disorders, and their potential as therapeutic agents.
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81
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Trapani I. Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors as a Tool for Large Gene Delivery to the Retina. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10040287. [PMID: 30970639 PMCID: PMC6523333 DOI: 10.3390/genes10040287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy using adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors currently represents the most promising approach for the treatment of many inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), given AAV's ability to efficiently deliver therapeutic genes to both photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium, and their excellent safety and efficacy profiles in humans. However, one of the main obstacles to widespread AAV application is their limited packaging capacity, which precludes their use from the treatment of IRDs which are caused by mutations in genes whose coding sequence exceeds 5 kb. Therefore, in recent years, considerable effort has been made to identify strategies to increase the transfer capacity of AAV vectors. This review will discuss these new developed strategies, highlighting the advancements as well as the limitations that the field has still to overcome to finally expand the applicability of AAV vectors to IRDs due to mutations in large genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Trapani
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.
- Medical Genetics, Department of Translational Medicine, Federico II University, 80131 Naples, Italy.
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Cideciyan AV, Jacobson SG. Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA): Potential for Improvement of Vision. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:1680-1695. [PMID: 31009524 PMCID: PMC6892385 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-26672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Artur V. Cideciyan
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Samuel G. Jacobson
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
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Telias M, Denlinger B, Helft Z, Thornton C, Beckwith-Cohen B, Kramer RH. Retinoic Acid Induces Hyperactivity, and Blocking Its Receptor Unmasks Light Responses and Augments Vision in Retinal Degeneration. Neuron 2019; 102:574-586.e5. [PMID: 30876849 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Light responses are initiated in photoreceptors, processed by interneurons, and synaptically transmitted to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which send information to the brain. Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a blinding disease caused by photoreceptor degeneration, depriving downstream neurons of light-sensitive input. Photoreceptor degeneration also triggers hyperactive firing of RGCs, obscuring light responses initiated by surviving photoreceptors. Here we show that retinoic acid (RA), signaling through its receptor (RAR), is the trigger for hyperactivity. A genetically encoded reporter shows elevated RAR signaling in degenerated retinas from murine RP models. Enhancing RAR signaling in healthy retinas mimics the pathophysiology of degenerating retinas. Drug inhibition of RAR reduces hyperactivity in degenerating retinas and unmasks light responses in RGCs. Gene therapy inhibition of RAR increases innate and learned light-elicited behaviors in vision-impaired mice. Identification of RAR as the trigger for hyperactivity presents a degeneration-dependent therapeutic target for enhancing low vision in RP and other blinding disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Telias
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Bristol Denlinger
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Zachary Helft
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Vision Science Graduate Group, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Casey Thornton
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Billie Beckwith-Cohen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Vision Science Graduate Group, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Richard H Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Vision Science Graduate Group, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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Hudry E, Vandenberghe LH. Therapeutic AAV Gene Transfer to the Nervous System: A Clinical Reality. Neuron 2019; 101:839-862. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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85
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Hori T, Fukutome M, Koike C. Adeno Associated Virus (AAV) as a Tool for Clinical and Experimental Delivery of Target Genes into the Mammalian Retina. Biol Pharm Bull 2019; 42:343-347. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b18-00913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tesshu Hori
- Laboratory for Systems Neuroscience and Developmental Biology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University
| | | | - Chieko Koike
- Laboratory for Systems Neuroscience and Developmental Biology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University
- Center for Systems Vision Science, Research Organization of Science and Technology, Ritsumeikan University
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