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New views and insights into intracellular trafficking of drug-delivery systems by fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy. Ther Deliv 2014; 5:173-88. [DOI: 10.4155/tde.13.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomaterials in the nanometer size range can be engineered for site-specific delivery of drugs after injection into the blood circulation. However, translation of such nanomedicines from the bench to the bedside is still hindered by many extracellular and intracellular barriers. To realize the concept of targeted drug delivery with nanomedicines, research groups are studying intensively the extra- and intra-cellular mechanisms involved as a response to the physicochemical properties of the nanomedicines. In this review, we highlight the contributions of fluorescence fluctuations spectroscopy techniques to better understand, and in turn to bypass, the major hurdles to therapeutic delivery, focusing mostly on the intracellular dynamics of drug-delivery systems.
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De La Vega J, Braak BT, Azzoni AR, Monteiro GA, Prazeres DMF. Impact of plasmid quality on lipoplex-mediated transfection. J Pharm Sci 2013; 102:3932-41. [PMID: 23996350 DOI: 10.1002/jps.23709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
This work investigates the impact of quality attributes (impurity content, plasmid charge, and compactness) of plasmid DNA isolated with different purification methodologies on the characteristics of lipoplexes prepared thereof (size, zeta potential, stability) and on their ability to transfect mammalian cells. A 3.7 kb plasmid with a green fluorescence protein (GFP) reporter gene, Lipofectamine®-based liposomes, and Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells were used as models. The plasmid was purified by hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC)/gel filtration, and with three commercial kits, which combine the use of chaotropic salts with silica membranes/glass fiber fleeces. The HIC-based protocol delivered a plasmid with the smallest hydrodynamic diameter (144 nm) and zeta potential (-46.5 mV), which is virtually free from impurities. When formulated with Lipofectamine®, this plasmid originated the smallest (146 nm), most charged (+13 mV), and most stable lipoplexes. In vitro transfection experiments further showed that these lipoplexes performed better in terms of plasmid uptake (∼500,000 vs. ∼100,000-200,000 copy number/cell), transfection efficiency (50% vs. 20%-40%), and GFP expression levels (twofold higher) when compared with lipoplexes prepared with plasmids isolated using commercial kits. Overall our observations highlight the potential impact that plasmid purification methodologies can have on the outcome of gene transfer experiments and trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan De La Vega
- IBB-Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centre for Biological and Chemical Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade Técnica de Lisboa, Lisboa, 1049-001, Portugal
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Meacham JM, Durvasula K, Degertekin FL, Fedorov AG. Physical methods for intracellular delivery: practical aspects from laboratory use to industrial-scale processing. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 19:1-18. [PMID: 23813915 DOI: 10.1177/2211068213494388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Effective intracellular delivery is a significant impediment to research and therapeutic applications at all processing scales. Physical delivery methods have long demonstrated the ability to deliver cargo molecules directly to the cytoplasm or nucleus, and the mechanisms underlying the most common approaches (microinjection, electroporation, and sonoporation) have been extensively investigated. In this review, we discuss established approaches, as well as emerging techniques (magnetofection, optoinjection, and combined modalities). In addition to operating principles and implementation strategies, we address applicability and limitations of various in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo platforms. Importantly, we perform critical assessments regarding (1) treatment efficacy with diverse cell types and delivered cargo molecules, (2) suitability to different processing scales (from single cell to large populations), (3) suitability for automation/integration with existing workflows, and (4) multiplexing potential and flexibility/adaptability to enable rapid changeover between treatments of varied cell types. Existing techniques typically fall short in one or more of these criteria; however, introduction of micro-/nanotechnology concepts, as well as synergistic coupling of complementary method(s), can improve performance and applicability of a particular approach, overcoming barriers to practical implementation. For this reason, we emphasize these strategies in examining recent advances in development of delivery systems.
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Madeira C, Rodrigues CAV, Reis MSC, Ferreira FFCG, Correia RESM, Diogo MM, Cabral JMS. Nonviral Gene Delivery to Neural Stem Cells with Minicircles by Microporation. Biomacromolecules 2013; 14:1379-87. [DOI: 10.1021/bm400015b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Madeira
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carlos A. V. Rodrigues
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mónica S. C. Reis
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipa F. C. G. Ferreira
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Raquel E. S. M. Correia
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria M. Diogo
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Joaquim M. S. Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering and Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal
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Matz RL, Erickson B, Vaidyanathan S, Kukowska-Latallo JF, Baker JR, Orr BG, Banaszak Holl MM. Polyplex exposure inhibits cell cycle, increases inflammatory response, and can cause protein expression without cell division. Mol Pharm 2013; 10:1306-17. [PMID: 23458572 PMCID: PMC3637663 DOI: 10.1021/mp300470d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We sought to evaluate the relationship between cell division and protein expression when using commercial poly(ethylenimine) (PEI)-based polyplexes. The membrane dye PKH26 was used to assess cell division, and cyan fluorescent protein (CFP) was used to monitor protein expression. When analyzed at the whole population level, a greater number of cells divided than expressed protein, regardless of the level of protein expression observed, giving apparent consistency with the hypothesis that protein expression requires cells to pass through mitosis in order for the transgene to overcome the nuclear membrane. However, when the polyplex-exposed population was evaluated for the amount of division in the protein-expressing subpopulation, it was observed that substantial amounts of expression had occurred in the absence of division. Indeed, in HeLa S3 cells, this represented the majority of expressing cells. Of interest, the doubling time for both cell lines was slowed by ~2-fold upon exposure to polyplexes. This change was not altered by the origin of the plasmid DNA (pDNA) transgene promoter (cytomegalovirus (CMV) or elongation factor-1 alpha (EF1α)). Gene expression arrays in polyplex-exposed HeLa S3 cells showed upregulation of cell cycle arrest genes and downregulation of genes related to mitosis. Chemokine, interleukin, and toll-like receptor genes were also upregulated, suggesting activation of proinflammatory pathways. In summary, we find evidence that a cell division-independent expression pathway exists, and that polyplex exposure slows cell division and increases inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Matz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Michigan Nanotechnology Institute for Medicine and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Blake Erickson
- Michigan Nanotechnology Institute for Medicine and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Program in Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Sriram Vaidyanathan
- Michigan Nanotechnology Institute for Medicine and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Jolanta F. Kukowska-Latallo
- Michigan Nanotechnology Institute for Medicine and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - James R. Baker
- Michigan Nanotechnology Institute for Medicine and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Bradford G. Orr
- Michigan Nanotechnology Institute for Medicine and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Physics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Mark M. Banaszak Holl
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Michigan Nanotechnology Institute for Medicine and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Program in Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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Gil-Cardeza ML, Rossi ÚA, Villaverde MS, Glikin GC, Finocchiaro LME. Cationic lipid:DNA complexes allow bleomycin uptake by melanoma cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2013; 67:269-75. [PMID: 23453489 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2013.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Bleomycin is a chemotherapeutic agent barely diffusible through the plasmatic membrane. We evaluated DNA/cationic lipids complexes (lipoplexes) as mediators of its uptake in four spontaneous canine melanoma derived cell lines (Ak, Bk, Br and Rkb). Cell survival after lipofection plus or minus bleomycin was determined by the acid phosphatase method and the cellular uptake of lipoplexes, carrying the E. coli β-galactosidase gene, was evidenced by SYBR Green I staining. The four cell lines resulted sensitive to the bleomycin/lipoplexes system in both spatial configurations. Survival rates values were lower than 20% in monolayers of the four tested lines and lower than 30% in three lines (Ak, Bk and Rkb) when grown as spheroids. The sensitization to bleomycin depended on lipoplexes in Ak and Rkb while Bk (in both spatial configurations) and Br (as monolayers) were sensitive to bleomycin alone. Although some degree of sensitivity to bleomycin was induced by cationic lipids alone in Ak and Rkb monolayers, the maximal bleomycin effects appeared in the presence of lipoplexes. The sensitization was independent of transcriptional activity. The co-administration of lipoplexes diminished bleomycin IC50: 10-fold in Ak and Rkb monolayers; and sensitized the Ak and Rkb resistant spheroids. The bleomycin cytotoxic effects depended on lipoplexes concentration and diminished when cells were incubated at 8°C. Our results suggest that lipoplexes sensitize cells to bleomycin, increasing its uptake by an active transport mechanism, such as endocytosis. The bleomycin/lipoplexes system appears as a promising combination of chemotherapy and non-viral cancer gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- María L Gil-Cardeza
- Unidad de Transferencia Genética, Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Avenida San Martin 5481, 1417 Buenos Aires, Argentina
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57
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Abstract
Nonviral vector technology is attracting increasing importance in the biomedical community owing to unique advantages and prospects for the treatment of severe diseases by gene therapy. In this review, synthetic vectors that allow the controlled design of efficient and biocompatible carriers are highlighted. The current benefits, potentials, problems and unmet needs of synthetic gene delivery systems, as well as the strategies to overcome the obstacles are also discussed. Common design principles and structure–activity trends have been established that are important for stable and targeted transport to regions of interest in the body, efficient uptake into cells as well as controlled release of drugs inside the cells, for example, in specialized compartments. The status quo of the use of these systems in preclinical and clinical trials is also considered.
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58
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Badding MA, Lapek JD, Friedman AE, Dean DA. Proteomic and functional analyses of protein-DNA complexes during gene transfer. Mol Ther 2012; 21:775-85. [PMID: 23164933 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2012.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the barriers to successful nonviral gene delivery is the crowded cytoplasm, which plasmids need to actively traverse for gene expression. Relatively little is known about how this process occurs, but our lab and others have shown that the microtubule network and motors are required for plasmid movement to the nucleus. To further investigate how plasmids exploit normal physiological processes to transfect cells, we have taken a proteomics approach to identify the proteins that comprise the plasmid-trafficking complex. We have developed a live cell DNA-protein pull-down assay to isolate complexes at certain time points post-transfection (15 minutes to 4 hours) for analysis by mass spectrometry (MS). Plasmids containing promoter sequences bound hundreds of unique proteins as early as 15 minutes post-electroporation, while a plasmid lacking any eukaryotic sequences failed to bind many of the proteins. Specific proteins included microtubule-based motor proteins (e.g., kinesin and dynein), proteins involved in protein nuclear import (e.g., importin 1, 2, 4, and 7, Crm1, RAN, and several RAN-binding proteins), a number of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP)- and mRNA-binding proteins, and transcription factors. The significance of several of the proteins involved in protein nuclear localization and plasmid trafficking was determined by monitoring movement of microinjected fluorescently labeled plasmids via live cell particle tracking in cells following protein knockdown by small-interfering RNA (siRNA) or through the use of specific inhibitors. While importin β1 was required for plasmid trafficking and subsequent nuclear import, importin α1 played no role in microtubule trafficking but was required for optimal plasmid nuclear import. Surprisingly, the nuclear export protein Crm1 also was found to complex with the transfected plasmids and was necessary for plasmid trafficking along microtubules and nuclear import. Our results show that various proteins involved in nuclear import and export influence intracellular trafficking of plasmids and subsequent nuclear accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A Badding
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14642, USA
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59
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Cramer F, Christensen CL, Poulsen TT, Badding MA, Dean DA, Poulsen HS. Insertion of a nuclear factor kappa B DNA nuclear-targeting sequence potentiates suicide gene therapy efficacy in lung cancer cell lines. Cancer Gene Ther 2012; 19:675-83. [PMID: 22898898 PMCID: PMC11070189 DOI: 10.1038/cgt.2012.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2012] [Accepted: 07/16/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer currently causes the majority of cancer-related deaths worldwide and new treatments are in high demand. Gene therapy could be a promising treatment but currently lacks sufficient efficiency for clinical use, primarily due to limited cellular and nuclear DNA delivery. In the present study, we investigated whether it was possible to exploit the endogenous nuclear-shuttling activity by the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) system, which is highly prominent in many cancers as well as lung cancer. We observed that insertion of a DNA nuclear-targeting sequence (DTS) recognized by NFκB could improve plasmid nuclear delivery and enhance the therapeutic effect of a validated transcriptionally cancer-targeted suicide gene therapy system. A clear correlation between the number of inserted NFκB-binding sites and the therapeutic effect of the suicide system was observed in both small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-SCLC cell lines. The effect was observed to be due to elevated nuclear translocation of the suicide gene-encoding plasmids. The results show that a significant improvement of gene therapeutic efficiency can be obtained by increasing the intracellular trafficking of therapeutic DNA. This is to our knowledge the first time a DTS strategy has been implemented for suicide gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Cramer
- Department of Radiation Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - CL Christensen
- Department of Radiation Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - TT Poulsen
- Department of Radiation Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - MA Badding
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - DA Dean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - HS Poulsen
- Department of Radiation Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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60
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua I. Cutler
- Department of Chemistry and International
Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Evelyn Auyeung
- Department of Chemistry and International
Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Chad A. Mirkin
- Department of Chemistry and International
Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
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61
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Zhao Y, Zhang S, Cui S, Wang B, Zhang S. Peptide-based cationic liposome-mediated gene delivery. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2011; 9:127-39. [DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2011.630387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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62
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Wang T, Upponi JR, Torchilin VP. Design of multifunctional non-viral gene vectors to overcome physiological barriers: dilemmas and strategies. Int J Pharm 2011; 427:3-20. [PMID: 21798324 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2011.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Revised: 07/11/2011] [Accepted: 07/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gene-based therapeutics hold great promise for medical advancement and have been used to treat various human diseases with mixed success. However, their therapeutic application in vivo is limited due largely to several physiological barriers. The design of non-viral gene vectors with the ability to overcome delivery obstacles is currently under extensive investigation. These efforts have placed an emphasis on the development of multifunctional vectors able to execute multiple tasks to simultaneously overcome both extracellular and intracellular obstacles. However, the assembly of these different functionalities into a single system to create multifunctional gene vectors faces many conflicts that largely limit the safe and efficient application of lipoplexes and polyplexes in a systemic delivery. In the review, we have described the dilemmas inherent in the design of a viable, non-viral gene vector equipped with multiple functionalities. The strategies directed towards individual delivery barriers are first summarized, followed by a focus on the design of so-called smart multifunctional vectors with the capability to overcome the delivery difficulties of gene medicines, including the so-called the "polycation dilemma", the "PEG dilemma" and the "package and release dilemma".
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, 312 Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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63
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Transcription factor plasmid binding modulates microtubule interactions and intracellular trafficking during gene transfer. Gene Ther 2011; 19:338-46. [PMID: 21716302 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2011.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
For non-viral gene delivery to be successful, plasmids must move through the cytoplasm to the nucleus in order to be transcribed. While the cytoskeletal meshwork acts as a barrier to plasmid DNA movement in the cytoplasm, the microtubule network is required for directed plasmid trafficking to the nucleus. We have shown previously that plasmid-microtubule interactions require cytoplasmic adapter proteins such as molecular motors, transcription factors (TFs) and importins. However, not all plasmid sequences support these interactions to allow movement to the nucleus. We now demonstrate that microtubule-DNA interactions can show sequence specificity with promoters containing binding sites for cyclic AMP response-element binding protein (CREB), including the cytomegalovirus immediate early promoter (CMV(iep)). Plasmids containing CREB-binding sites showed stringent interactions in an in vitro microtubule-binding assay. Using microinjection and real-time particle tracking, we show that the inclusion of TF binding sites within plasmids permits cytoplasmic trafficking of plasmids during gene transfer. We found that CREB-binding sites are bound by CREB in the cytoplasm during transfection, and allow for enhanced rates of movement and subsequent nuclear accumulation. Moreover, small interfering RNA knockdown of CREB prevented this enhanced trafficking. Therefore, TF binding sites within plasmids are necessary for interactions with microtubules and enhance movement to the nucleus.
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64
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Escoffre JM, Portet T, Favard C, Teissié J, Dean DS, Rols MP. Electromediated formation of DNA complexes with cell membranes and its consequences for gene delivery. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1808:1538-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2010.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2010] [Revised: 10/13/2010] [Accepted: 10/14/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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65
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How to screen non-viral gene delivery systems in vitro? J Control Release 2011; 154:218-32. [PMID: 21600249 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2010] [Revised: 03/31/2011] [Accepted: 05/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Screening of new gene delivery candidates regarding transfection efficiency and toxicity is usually performed by reading out transgene expression levels relative to a reference formulation after in vitro transfection. However, over the years and among different laboratories, this screening has been performed in a variety of cell lines, using a variety of conditions and read-out systems, and by comparison to a variety of reference formulations. This makes a direct comparison of results difficult, if not impossible. Reaching a consensus would enable placing new results into context of previous findings and estimate the overall contribution to the improvement of non-viral gene delivery. In this paper we illustrate the sensitivity of transfection outcomes on testing conditions chosen, and propose a screening protocol with the aim of standardization within the field.
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66
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Arkhangelsky E, Sefi Y, Hajaj B, Rothenberg G, Gitis V. Kinetics and mechanism of plasmid DNA penetration through nanopores. J Memb Sci 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2011.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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67
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van Gaal EVB, Oosting RS, van Eijk R, Bakowska M, Feyen D, Kok RJ, Hennink WE, Crommelin DJA, Mastrobattista E. DNA nuclear targeting sequences for non-viral gene delivery. Pharm Res 2011; 28:1707-22. [PMID: 21424159 PMCID: PMC3109246 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-011-0407-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 02/21/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate if introduction of DNA nuclear Targeting Sequences (DTS; i.e. recognition sequences for endogenous DNA-binding proteins) in plasmid DNA (pDNA) leads to increased transfection efficiency of non-viral gene delivery by virtue of enhanced nuclear import of the pDNA. Methods A set of DTS was identified and cloned into EGFP-reporter plasmids controlled by the CMV-promoter. These pDNA constructs were delivered into A431 and HeLa cells using standard electroporation, pEI-based polyfection or lipofection methods. The amount of pDNA delivered into the nucleus was determined by qPCR; transfection efficiency was determined by flow cytometry. Results Neither of these DTS increased transgene expression. We varied several parameters (mitotic activity, applied dose and delivery strategy), but without effect. Although upregulated transgene expression was observed after stimulation with TNF-α, this effect could be ascribed to non-specific upregulation of transcription rather than enhanced nuclear import. Nuclear copy numbers of plasmids containing or lacking a DTS did not differ significantly after lipofectamine-based transfection in dividing and non-dividing cells. Conclusion No beneficial effects of DTS on gene expression or nuclear uptake were observed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethlinn V B van Gaal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Heart failure is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals of all ages. The many-faceted nature of the clinical heart failure syndrome has historically frustrated attempts to develop an overarching explanative theory. However, much useful information has been gained by basic and clinical investigation, even though a comprehensive understanding of heart failure has been elusive. Heart failure is a growing problem, in both adult and pediatric populations, for which standard medical therapy, as of 2010, can have positive effects, but these are usually limited and progressively diminish with time in most patients. If we want curative or near-curative therapy that will return patients to a normal state of health at a feasible cost, much better diagnostic and therapeutic technologies need to be developed. This review addresses the vexing group of heart failure etiologies that include cardiomyopathies and other ventricular dysfunctions of various types, for which current therapy is only modestly effective. Although there are many unique aspects to heart failure in patients with pediatric and congenital heart disease, many of the innovative approaches that are being developed for the care of adults with heart failure will be applicable to heart failure in childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Penny
- Section of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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69
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Gene Transfer: How Can the Biological Barriers Be Overcome? J Membr Biol 2010; 236:61-74. [DOI: 10.1007/s00232-010-9275-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2010] [Accepted: 06/11/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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70
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Ribeiro S, Mendes R, Madeira C, Monteiro G, da Silva C, Cabral J. A quantitative method to evaluate mesenchymal stem cell lipofection using real-time PCR. Biotechnol Prog 2010; 26:1501-4. [DOI: 10.1002/btpr.451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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71
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Abstract
Improving the transfection efficiencies of nonviral gene delivery requires properly engineered nanoscaled delivery carriers that can overcome the multiple barriers associated with the delivery of oligonucleotides from the site of administration to the nucleus or cytoplasm of the target cell. This article reviews the current advantages and limitation of polyplex nonviral delivery systems, including the apparent barriers that limit gene expression efficiency compared to physical methods such as hydrodynamic dosing and electroporation. An emphasis is placed on engineered nanoscaled polyplexes (NSPs) of modular design that both self-assemble and systematically disassemble at the desired stage of delivery. It is suggested that NSPs of increasingly sophisticated designs are necessary to improve the efficiency of the rate limiting steps in gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A Fernandez
- Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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72
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Nuclear drug delivery to target tumour cells. Eur J Pharmacol 2009; 625:174-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2009.06.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2009] [Revised: 06/05/2009] [Accepted: 06/22/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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73
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Escoffre JM, Bellard E, Golzio M, Teissié J, Rols MP. Transgene expression of transfected supercoiled plasmid DNA concatemers in mammalian cells. J Gene Med 2009; 11:1071-3. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Asadi-Moghaddam K, Chiocca EA. Gene- and viral-based therapies for brain tumors. Neurotherapeutics 2009; 6:547-57. [PMID: 19560744 PMCID: PMC3052738 DOI: 10.1016/j.nurt.2009.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2009] [Revised: 04/15/2009] [Accepted: 04/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in understanding and controlling genes and their expression have set the stage to alter genetic material to fight or prevent disease with brain tumors being among one of the first human malignancies to be targeted by gene therapy. All proteins are coded for by DNA and most neoplastic diseases ultimately result from the expression or lack thereof with one or more proteins (e.g., coded by oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, respectively). In theory, therefore, diseases could be treated by expression of the appropriate protein in the affected cells. Gene therapy is an experimental treatment that involves introducing genetic material (DNA or RNA) into cells, and it has made important advances in the past decade. Within this short time span, it has moved from the conceptual laboratory research stage to clinical translational trials for brain tumors. The most efficient approaches for gene delivery are based on viral vectors, which have been proven relatively safe in the CNS, despite occasional cases of morbidity and death in non-neurosurgical trials. However, the human response to various viral vectors can not be predicted in a reliable manner from animal experimentation, nor can size, consistency, and extent of experimental brain tumors in mouse models reflect the large, necrotic, infiltrative nature of malignant gliomas. Furthermore, the problem of delivering genetic vectors into solid brain tumors and the efficiency in situ gene transfer remains one of the most significant hurdles in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Asadi-Moghaddam
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Dardinger Center for Neuro-oncology and Neurosciences, James Cancer Hospital/Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, N-1017 Doan Hall, 410 W. 10th Avenue, 43210-1240 Columbus, OH
| | - E. Antonio Chiocca
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Dardinger Center for Neuro-oncology and Neurosciences, James Cancer Hospital/Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, N-1017 Doan Hall, 410 W. 10th Avenue, 43210-1240 Columbus, OH
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Kafaie J, Dolatshahi M, Ajamian L, Song R, Mouland AJ, Rouiller I, Laughrea M. Role of capsid sequence and immature nucleocapsid proteins p9 and p15 in Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 genomic RNA dimerization. Virology 2009; 385:233-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2008.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2008] [Revised: 10/18/2008] [Accepted: 11/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Lam AP, Dean DA. Cyclic stretch-induced nuclear localization of transcription factors results in increased nuclear targeting of plasmids in alveolar epithelial cells. J Gene Med 2008; 10:668-78. [PMID: 18361478 PMCID: PMC4084625 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have shown previously that cyclic stretch corresponding to that experienced by the pulmonary epithelium during normal breathing enhances nonviral gene transfer and expression in alveolar epithelial cells by increasing plasmid intracellular trafficking. Although reorganization of the microtubule and actin cytoskeletons by cyclic stretch is necessary for increased plasmid trafficking, the role of nuclear entry in this enhanced trafficking has not been elucidated. METHODS Alveolar epithelial cells were subjected to biaxial cyclic stretch (10% change in surface area at 0.5 Hz) and assayed for RNA expression, nuclear localization and activation of key transcription factors. Stretched epithelial cells were transfected with plasmids via electroporation and exposed to inhibitors of transcription factor activation. RESULTS When assayed by in situ hybridization, more plasmids were localized to the nuclei of cells that were stretched following electroporation compared to unstretched cells. Cyclic stretch also increases the nuclear localization of multiple transcription factors thought to be involved in plasmid nuclear entry, including AP1, AP2, NF-kappaB and NF1. Specific inhibition of the nuclear import of AP1 and/or NF-kappaB abolishes the enhanced plasmid nuclear localization seen with stretch. CONCLUSIONS Nuclear entry of plasmids is thought to be mediated by the binding of proteins that chaperone the DNA through the nuclear pore. Stretch-enhanced nuclear localization of transcription factors increases nuclear targeting of plasmids, whereas inhibition of the nuclear import of specific transcription factors abrogated stretch-enhanced plasmid nuclear localization. Taken together, these results suggest that cyclic stretch increases gene trafficking in the cytoplasm and at the nuclear envelope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna P. Lam
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, North-western University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David A. Dean
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, North-western University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University or Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
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Evaluation of the effect of vector architecture on DNA condensation and gene transfer efficiency. J Control Release 2008; 129:117-23. [PMID: 18524409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2008.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2007] [Revised: 04/06/2008] [Accepted: 04/08/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of vector architecture on DNA condensation, particle stability, and gene transfer efficiency. Two recombinant non-viral vectors with the same amino acid compositions but different architectures, composed of lysine-histidine (KH) repeating units fused to fibroblast growth factor, were genetically engineered. In one vector lysine residues were dispersed (KHKHKHKHKK)(6)-FGF2, whereas in the other they were in clusters (KKKHHHHKKK)(6)-FGF2. Organization of lysine residues in this manner was inspired by the sequence of DNA condensing motifs that exist in nature (e.g., histones) where lysine residues are organized in clusters. These two constructs were compared in terms of DNA condensation and gene transfer efficiency. It was observed that the construct with KH units in clusters was able to condense pDNA into more stable particles with sizes <150 nm making them suitable for cellular uptake via receptor mediated endocytosis. This in turn resulted in five times higher transfection efficiency for the cKH-FGF2. This study demonstrates that in targeted non-viral gene transfer, the vector architecture plays as significant a role as its amino acid sequence. Thus, in the design of the non-viral vectors (synthetic or recombinant) this factor should be considered of paramount importance.
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78
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Burke RS, Pun SH. Extracellular barriers to in Vivo PEI and PEGylated PEI polyplex-mediated gene delivery to the liver. Bioconjug Chem 2008; 19:693-704. [PMID: 18293906 DOI: 10.1021/bc700388u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Polyplex-mediated gene therapy is a promising alternative to viral gene therapy. One challenge to these synthetic carriers is reduced transfection efficiencies in vivo compared to those achieved in vitro. Many of the intracellular barriers to gene delivery have been elucidated, but similar quantification of extracellular barriers to gene delivery remains a need. In this study, the unpackaging of polyplexes by serum proteins, soluble glycosaminoglycans, and an extracellular matrix extract was demonstrated by a YOYO-1 fluorescence quenching assay. Additionally, exposing polyplexes to serum or proteoglycans before in vitro transfection caused decreased cellular uptake of DNA. Lastly, PEI polyplexes and PEGylated PEI polyplexes were injected into the portal vein of mice, and the intrahepatic distributions of labeled DNA and polymer were assessed by confocal microscopy. PEI polyplexes delivered DNA to the liver, but extensive vector unpackaging was observed, with PEI primarily colocalized with the extracellular matrix. PEGylated polyplexes mediated less DNA delivery to the liver, possibly due to premature vector unpackaging in the blood. Through this work, both the blood and the extracellular matrix have been determined to be significant extracellular barriers to polyplex-mediated in vivo gene delivery to the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob S Burke
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, 1705 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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79
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Wagstaff KM, Jans DA. Nucleocytoplasmic transport of DNA: enhancing non-viral gene transfer. Biochem J 2007; 406:185-202. [PMID: 17680778 DOI: 10.1042/bj20070505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy, the correction of dysfunctional or deleted genes by supplying the lacking component, has long been awaited as a means to permanently treat or reverse many genetic disorders. To achieve this, therapeutic DNA must be delivered to the nucleus of cells using a safe and efficient delivery vector. Although viral-based vectors have been utilized extensively due to their innate ability to deliver DNA to intact cells, safety considerations, such as pathogenicity, oncogenicity and the stimulation of an immunological response in the host, remain problematical. There has, however, been much progress in the development of safe non-viral gene-delivery vectors, although they remain less efficient than the viral counterparts. The major limitations of non-viral gene transfer reside in the fact that it must be tailored to overcome the intracellular barriers to DNA delivery that viruses already master, including the cellular and nuclear membranes. In particular, nuclear transport of the therapeutic DNA is known to be the rate-limiting step in the gene-delivery process. Despite this, much progress had been made in recent years in developing novel means to overcome these barriers and efficiently deliver DNA to the nuclei of intact cells. This review focuses on the nucleocytoplasmic delivery of DNA and mechanisms to enhance to non-viral-mediated gene transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie M Wagstaff
- Nuclear Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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