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Banda A, Impomeni O, Singh A, Baloch AR, Hu W, Jaijyan DK. Precision in Action: The Role of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Cas in Gene Therapies. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:636. [PMID: 38932365 PMCID: PMC11209408 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12060636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat (CRISPR)-associated enzyme-CAS holds great promise for treating many uncured human diseases and illnesses by precisely correcting harmful point mutations and disrupting disease-causing genes. The recent Food and Drug Association (FDA) approval of the first CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell anemia marks the beginning of a new era in gene editing. However, delivering CRISPR specifically into diseased cells in vivo is a significant challenge and an area of intense research. The identification of new CRISPR/Cas variants, particularly ultra-compact CAS systems with robust gene editing activities, paves the way for the low-capacity delivery vectors to be used in gene therapies. CRISPR/Cas technology has evolved beyond editing DNA to cover a wide spectrum of functionalities, including RNA targeting, disease diagnosis, transcriptional/epigenetic regulation, chromatin imaging, high-throughput screening, and new disease modeling. CRISPR/Cas can be used to engineer B-cells to produce potent antibodies for more effective vaccines and enhance CAR T-cells for the more precise and efficient targeting of tumor cells. However, CRISPR/Cas technology has challenges, including off-target effects, toxicity, immune responses, and inadequate tissue-specific delivery. Overcoming these challenges necessitates the development of a more effective and specific CRISPR/Cas delivery system. This entails strategically utilizing specific gRNAs in conjunction with robust CRISPR/Cas variants to mitigate off-target effects. This review seeks to delve into the intricacies of the CRISPR/Cas mechanism, explore progress in gene therapies, evaluate gene delivery systems, highlight limitations, outline necessary precautions, and scrutinize the ethical considerations associated with its application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrutha Banda
- Department of Biology, The College of New Jersey, Ewing Township, NJ 08618, USA
| | - Olivia Impomeni
- Department of Biology, The College of New Jersey, Ewing Township, NJ 08618, USA
| | - Aparana Singh
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Agartala, Agartala 799046, India;
| | - Abdul Rasheed Baloch
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| | - Wenhui Hu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| | - Dabbu Kumar Jaijyan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
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2
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Kurashina Y, Kurihara S, Kubota T, Takatsuka S, Hirabayashi M, Shimmura H, Miyahara H, Hioki A, Matsushita Y, Muramatsu J, Ogawa Y, Fujioka M, Okano HJ, Onoe H. Adeno-Associated Virus-Encapsulated Alginate Microspheres Loaded in Collagen Gel Carriers for Localized Gene Transfer. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303546. [PMID: 38224572 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
This work reports localized in vivo gene transfer by biodegradation of the adeno-associated virus-encapsulating alginate microspheres (AAV-AMs) loaded in collagen gel carriers. AAV-AMs are centrifugally synthesized by ejecting a mixed pre-gel solution of alginate and AAV to CaCl2 solution to form an ionically cross-linked hydrogel microsphere immediately. The AAV-AMs are able to preserve the AAV without diffusing out even after spreading them on the cells, and the AAV is released and transfected by the degradation of the alginate microsphere. In addition, AAV-AMs can be stored by cryopreservation until use. By implanting this highly convenient AAV-encapsulated hydrogel, AAV-AMs can be loaded into collagen gel carriers to fix the position of the implanted AAV-AMs and achieve localized gene transfer in vivo. In vivo experiments show that the AAV-AMs loaded in collagen gel carriers are demonstrated to release the encapsulated AAV for gene transfer in the buttocks muscles of mice. While conventional injections caused gene transfer to the entire surrounding tissue, the biodegradation of AAV-AMs shows that gene transfer is achieved locally to the muscles. This means that the proposed AAV-loaded system is shown to be a superior method for selective gene transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Kurashina
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
- Division of Advanced Mechanical Systems Engineering, Institute of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Nakacho, Koganei-shi, Tokyo, 184-8588, Japan
| | - Sho Kurihara
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kubota
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Shuhei Takatsuka
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Motoki Hirabayashi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Hajime Shimmura
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Hideo Miyahara
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Aiki Hioki
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Yutaka Matsushita
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Jumpei Muramatsu
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Yuki Ogawa
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Masato Fujioka
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0374, Japan
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Keio University Hospital, 35 Shinanomachi Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hirotaka J Okano
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Onoe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
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3
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Puliga E, De Bellis C, Vietti Michelina S, Capeloa T, Migliore C, Orrù C, Baiocchi GL, De Manzoni G, Pietrantonio F, Reddavid R, Fumagalli Romario U, Ambrogio C, Corso S, Giordano S. Biological and targeting differences between the rare KRAS A146T and canonical KRAS mutants in gastric cancer models. Gastric Cancer 2024; 27:473-483. [PMID: 38261067 PMCID: PMC11016506 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-024-01468-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer (GC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with a poor prognosis for patients with advanced disease. Since the oncogenic role of KRAS mutants has been poorly investigated in GC, this study aims to biochemically and biologically characterize different KRAS-mutated models and unravel differences among KRAS mutants in response to therapy. METHODS Taking advantage of a proprietary, molecularly annotated platform of more than 200 GC PDXs (patient-derived xenografts), we identified KRAS-mutated PDXs, from which primary cell lines were established. The different mutants were challenged with KRAS downstream inhibitors in in vitro and in vivo experiments. RESULTS Cells expressing the rare KRAS A146T mutant showed lower RAS-GTP levels compared to those bearing the canonical G12/13D mutations. Nevertheless, all the KRAS-mutated cells displayed KRAS addiction. Surprisingly, even if the GEF SOS1 is considered critical for the activation of KRAS A146T mutants, its abrogation did not significantly affect cell viability. From the pharmacologic point of view, Trametinib monotherapy was more effective in A146T than in G12D-mutated models, suggesting a vulnerability to MEK inhibition. However, in the presence of mutations in the PI3K pathway, more frequently co-occurrent in A146T models, the association of Trametinib and the AKT inhibitor MK-2206 was required to optimize the response. CONCLUSION A deeper genomic and biological characterization of KRAS mutants might sustain the development of more efficient and long-lasting therapeutic options for patients harbouring KRAS-driven GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Puliga
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy.
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy.
| | - Chiara De Bellis
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Sandra Vietti Michelina
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Tania Capeloa
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Cristina Migliore
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Claudia Orrù
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Baiocchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Surgery "Santo Spirito Hospital", ASL-AL, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni De Manzoni
- Section of Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Filippo Pietrantonio
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Chiara Ambrogio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Simona Corso
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Silvia Giordano
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
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4
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Beschorner N, Künzle P, Voges M, Hauber I, Indenbirken D, Nakel J, Virdi S, Bradtke P, Lory NC, Rothe M, Paszkowski-Rogacz M, Buchholz F, Grundhoff A, Schambach A, Thirion C, Mittrücker HW, Schulze zur Wiesch J, Hauber J, Chemnitz J. Preclinical toxicity analyses of lentiviral vectors expressing the HIV-1 LTR-specific designer-recombinase Brec1. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298542. [PMID: 38457474 PMCID: PMC10923487 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug-based antiretroviral therapies (ART) efficiently suppress HIV replication in humans, but the virus persists as integrated proviral reservoirs in small numbers of cells. Importantly, ART cannot eliminate HIV from an infected individual, since it does not target the integrated provirus. Therefore, genome editing-based strategies that can inactivate or excise HIV genomes would provide the technology for novel curative therapies. In fact, the HIV-1 LTR-specific designer-recombinase Brec1 has been shown to remove integrated proviruses from infected cells and is highly efficacious on clinical HIV-1 isolates in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that Brec1 has the potential for clinical development of advanced HIV-1 eradication strategies in people living with HIV. In line with the preparation of a first-in-human advanced therapy medicinal product gene therapy trial, we here present an extensive preclinical evaluation of Brec1 and lentiviral vectors expressing the Brec1 transgene. This included detailed functional analysis of potential genomic off-target sites, assessing vector safety by investigating vector copy number (VCN) and the risk for potential vector-related insertional mutagenesis, as well as analyzing the potential of Brec1 to trigger an undesired strong T cell immune response. In conclusion, the antiviral designer-recombinase Brec1 is shown to lack any detectable cytopathic, genotoxic or T cell-related immunogenic effects, thereby meeting an important precondition for clinical application of the therapeutic lentiviral vector LV-Brec1 in novel HIV-1 curative strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Beschorner
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
- PROVIREX Genome Editing Therapies GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paul Künzle
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
| | - Maike Voges
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- PROVIREX Genome Editing Therapies GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ilona Hauber
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- PROVIREX Genome Editing Therapies GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Indenbirken
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
| | - Jacqueline Nakel
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
| | - Sanamjeet Virdi
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
| | - Peter Bradtke
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Niels Christian Lory
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Rothe
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Frank Buchholz
- PROVIREX Genome Editing Therapies GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
- Medical Systems Biology, UCC, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Adam Grundhoff
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Hans-Willi Mittrücker
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology (HCTI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Schulze zur Wiesch
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joachim Hauber
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
- PROVIREX Genome Editing Therapies GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan Chemnitz
- Leibniz-Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg–Lübeck–Borstel–Riems, Germany
- PROVIREX Genome Editing Therapies GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
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5
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Barbieri E, Mollica GN, Moore BD, Sripada SA, Shastry S, Kilgore RE, Loudermilk CM, Whitacre ZH, Kilgour KM, Wuestenhagen E, Aldinger A, Graalfs H, Rammo O, Schulte MM, Johnson TF, Daniele MA, Menegatti S. Peptide ligands targeting the vesicular stomatitis virus G (VSV-G) protein for the affinity purification of lentivirus particles. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:618-639. [PMID: 37947118 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The recent uptick in the approval of ex vivo cell therapies highlights the relevance of lentivirus (LV) as an enabling viral vector of modern medicine. As labile biologics, however, LVs pose critical challenges to industrial biomanufacturing. In particular, LV purification-currently reliant on filtration and anion-exchange or size-exclusion chromatography-suffers from long process times and low yield of transducing particles, which translate into high waiting time and cost to patients. Seeking to improve LV downstream processing, this study introduces peptides targeting the enveloped protein Vesicular stomatitis virus G (VSV-G) to serve as affinity ligands for the chromatographic purification of LV particles. An ensemble of candidate ligands was initially discovered by implementing a dual-fluorescence screening technology and a targeted in silico approach designed to identify sequences with high selectivity and tunable affinity. The selected peptides were conjugated on Poros resin and their LV binding-and-release performance was optimized by adjusting the flow rate, composition, and pH of the chromatographic buffers. Ligands GKEAAFAA and SRAFVGDADRD were selected for their high product yield (50%-60% of viral genomes; 40%-50% of HT1080 cell-transducing particles) upon elution in PIPES buffer with 0.65 M NaCl at pH 7.4. The peptide-based adsorbents also presented remarkable values of binding capacity (up to 3·109 TU per mL of resin, or 5·1011 vp per mL of resin, at the residence time of 1 min) and clearance of host cell proteins (up to a 220-fold reduction of HEK293 HCPs). Additionally, GKEAAFAA demonstrated high resistance to caustic cleaning-in-place (0.5 M NaOH, 30 min) with no observable loss in product yield and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Barbieri
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gina N Mollica
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brandyn D Moore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sobhana A Sripada
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shriarjun Shastry
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ryan E Kilgore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Casee M Loudermilk
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Zachary H Whitacre
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Katie M Kilgour
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Thomas F Johnson
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Michael A Daniele
- North Carolina Viral Vector Initiative in Research and Learning (NC-VVIRAL), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stefano Menegatti
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- North Carolina Viral Vector Initiative in Research and Learning (NC-VVIRAL), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- LigaTrap Technologies LLC, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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6
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Nafchi NAM, Chilcott EM, Brown S, Fuller HR, Bowerman M, Yáñez-Muñoz RJ. Enhanced expression of the human Survival motor neuron 1 gene from a codon-optimised cDNA transgene in vitro and in vivo. Gene Ther 2023; 30:812-825. [PMID: 37322133 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00406-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neuromuscular disease particularly characterised by degeneration of ventral motor neurons. Survival motor neuron (SMN) 1 gene mutations cause SMA, and gene addition strategies to replace the faulty SMN1 copy are a therapeutic option. We have developed a novel, codon-optimised hSMN1 transgene and produced integration-proficient and integration-deficient lentiviral vectors with cytomegalovirus (CMV), human synapsin (hSYN) or human phosphoglycerate kinase (hPGK) promoters to determine the optimal expression cassette configuration. Integrating, CMV-driven and codon-optimised hSMN1 lentiviral vectors resulted in the highest production of functional SMN protein in vitro. Integration-deficient lentiviral vectors also led to significant expression of the optimised transgene and are expected to be safer than integrating vectors. Lentiviral delivery in culture led to activation of the DNA damage response, in particular elevating levels of phosphorylated ataxia telangiectasia mutated (pATM) and γH2AX, but the optimised hSMN1 transgene showed some protective effects. Neonatal delivery of adeno-associated viral vector (AAV9) vector encoding the optimised transgene to the Smn2B/- mouse model of SMA resulted in a significant increase of SMN protein levels in liver and spinal cord. This work shows the potential of a novel codon-optimised hSMN1 transgene as a therapeutic strategy for SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda A M Nafchi
- AGCTlab.org, Centre of Gene and Cell Therapy, Centre for Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Ellie M Chilcott
- AGCTlab.org, Centre of Gene and Cell Therapy, Centre for Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Sharon Brown
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele University, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Inherited Neuromuscular Disease, TORCH Building, RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, SY10 7AG, UK
| | - Heidi R Fuller
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele University, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Inherited Neuromuscular Disease, TORCH Building, RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, SY10 7AG, UK
| | - Melissa Bowerman
- Wolfson Centre for Inherited Neuromuscular Disease, TORCH Building, RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, SY10 7AG, UK
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Rafael J Yáñez-Muñoz
- AGCTlab.org, Centre of Gene and Cell Therapy, Centre for Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, TW20 0EX, UK.
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7
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Cheng Q, Kang Y, Yao B, Dong J, Zhu Y, He Y, Ji X. Genetically Engineered-Cell-Membrane Nanovesicles for Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302131. [PMID: 37409429 PMCID: PMC10502869 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The advent of immunotherapy has marked a new era in cancer treatment, offering significant clinical benefits. Cell membrane as drug delivery materials has played a crucial role in enhancing cancer therapy because of their inherent biocompatibility and negligible immunogenicity. Different cell membranes are prepared into cell membrane nanovesicles (CMNs), but CMNs have limitations such as inefficient targeting ability, low efficacy, and unpredictable side effects. Genetic engineering has deepened the critical role of CMNs in cancer immunotherapy, enabling genetically engineered-CMN (GCMN)-based therapeutics. To date, CMNs that are surface modified by various functional proteins have been developed through genetic engineering. Herein, a brief overview of surface engineering strategies for CMNs and the features of various membrane sources is discussed, followed by a description of GCMN preparation methods. The application of GCMNs in cancer immunotherapy directed at different immune targets is addressed as are the challenges and prospects of GCMNs in clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yong Kang
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational MedicineMedical CollegeTianjin UniversityTianjin300072China
| | - Bin Yao
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational MedicineMedical CollegeTianjin UniversityTianjin300072China
| | - Jinrui Dong
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational MedicineMedical CollegeTianjin UniversityTianjin300072China
| | - Yalan Zhu
- Jinhua Municipal Central HospitalJinhua321000China
| | - Yiling He
- Jinhua Municipal Central HospitalJinhua321000China
| | - Xiaoyuan Ji
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational MedicineMedical CollegeTianjin UniversityTianjin300072China
- Medical CollegeLinyi UniversityLinyi276000China
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8
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Schulz C, Herzog N, Kubick S, Jung F, Küpper JH. Stable Chinese Hamster Ovary Suspension Cell Lines Harboring Recombinant Human Cytochrome P450 Oxidoreductase and Human Cytochrome P450 Monooxygenases as Platform for In Vitro Biotransformation Studies. Cells 2023; 12:2140. [PMID: 37681872 PMCID: PMC10486802 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In the liver, phase-1 biotransformation of drugs and other xenobiotics is largely facilitated by enzyme complexes consisting of cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (CPR) and cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs). Generated from human liver-derived cell lines, recombinant in vitro cell systems with overexpression of defined phase-1 enzymes are widely used for pharmacological and toxicological drug assessment and laboratory-scale production of drug-specific reference metabolites. Most, if not all, of these cell lines, however, display some background activity of several CYPs, making it difficult to attribute effects to defined CYPs. The aim of this study was to generate cell lines with stable overexpression of human phase-1 enzymes based on Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) suspension cells. Cells were sequentially modified with cDNAs for human CPR in combination with CYP1A2, CYP2B6, or CYP3A4, using lentiviral gene transfer. In parallel, CYP-overexpressing cell lines without recombinant CPR were generated. Successful recombinant expression was demonstrated by mRNA and protein analyses. Using prototypical CYP-substrates, generated cell lines proved to display specific enzyme activities of each overexpressed CYP while we did not find any endogenous activity of those CYPs in parental CHO cells. Interestingly, cell lines revealed some evidence that the dependence of CYP activity on CPR could vary between CYPs. This needs to be confirmed in further studies. Recombinant expression of CPR was also shown to enhance CYP3A4-independent metabolisation of testosterone to androstenedione in CHO cells. We propose the novel serum-free CHO suspension cell lines with enhanced CPR and/or defined CYP activity as a promising "humanised" in vitro model to study the specific effects of those human CYPs. This could be relevant for toxicology and/or pharmacology studies in the pharmaceutical industry or medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Schulz
- Fraunhofer Project Group PZ-Syn, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Branch Bioanalytics and Bioprocesses (IZI-BB) Located at the Institute of Biotechnology, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany;
- Institute of Biotechnology, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany; (N.H.); (F.J.)
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Branch Bioanalytics and Bioprocesses (IZI-BB), Potsdam, Germany;
| | - Natalie Herzog
- Institute of Biotechnology, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany; (N.H.); (F.J.)
| | - Stefan Kubick
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Branch Bioanalytics and Bioprocesses (IZI-BB), Potsdam, Germany;
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Joint Faculty of the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, The Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and the University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Friedrich Jung
- Institute of Biotechnology, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany; (N.H.); (F.J.)
| | - Jan-Heiner Küpper
- Fraunhofer Project Group PZ-Syn, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Branch Bioanalytics and Bioprocesses (IZI-BB) Located at the Institute of Biotechnology, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany;
- Institute of Biotechnology, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany; (N.H.); (F.J.)
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9
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Chavda VP, Bezbaruah R, Valu D, Patel B, Kumar A, Prasad S, Kakoti BB, Kaushik A, Jesawadawala M. Adenoviral Vector-Based Vaccine Platform for COVID-19: Current Status. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020432. [PMID: 36851309 PMCID: PMC9965371 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) breakout had an unimaginable worldwide effect in the 21st century, claiming millions of lives and putting a huge burden on the global economy. The potential developments in vaccine technologies following the determination of the genetic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 and the increasing global efforts to bring potential vaccines and therapeutics into the market for emergency use have provided a small bright spot to this tragic event. Several intriguing vaccine candidates have been developed using recombinant technology, genetic engineering, and other vaccine development technologies. In the last decade, a vast amount of the vaccine development process has diversified towards the usage of viral vector-based vaccines. The immune response elicited by such vaccines is comparatively higher than other approved vaccine candidates that require a booster dose to provide sufficient immune protection. The non-replicating adenoviral vectors are promising vaccine carriers for infectious diseases due to better yield, cGMP-friendly manufacturing processes, safety, better efficacy, manageable shipping, and storage procedures. As of April 2022, the WHO has approved a total of 10 vaccines around the world for COVID-19 (33 vaccines approved by at least one country), among which three candidates are adenoviral vector-based vaccines. This review sheds light on the developmental summary of all the adenoviral vector-based vaccines that are under emergency use authorization (EUA) or in the different stages of development for COVID-19 management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek P. Chavda
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +91-7030-919-407
| | - Rajashri Bezbaruah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh 786004, Assam, India
| | - Disha Valu
- Drug Product Development Laboratory, Biopharma Division, Intas Pharmaceutical Ltd., Moraiya, Ahmedabad 382213, Gujarat, India
| | - Bindra Patel
- Pharmacy Section, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Anup Kumar
- Pharmacy Section, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Sanjay Prasad
- Cell and Gene Therapy Drug Product Development Laboratory, Biopharma Division, Intas Pharmaceutical Ltd., Moraiya, Ahmedabad 382213, Gujarat, India
| | - Bibhuti Bhusan Kakoti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh 786004, Assam, India
| | - Ajeet Kaushik
- NanoBioTech Laboratory, Health Systems Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering, Florida Polytechnic University, Lakeland, FL 33805-8531, USA
| | - Mariya Jesawadawala
- Pharmacy Section, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India
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10
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Lundstrom K. Gene Therapy Cargoes Based on Viral Vector Delivery. Curr Gene Ther 2023; 23:111-134. [PMID: 36154608 DOI: 10.2174/1566523222666220921112753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Viral vectors have been proven useful in a broad spectrum of gene therapy applications due to their possibility to accommodate foreign genetic material for both local and systemic delivery. The wide range of viral vectors has enabled gene therapy applications for both acute and chronic diseases. Cancer gene therapy has been addressed by the delivery of viral vectors expressing anti-tumor, toxic, and suicide genes for the destruction of tumors. Delivery of immunostimulatory genes such as cytokines and chemokines has also been applied for cancer therapy. Moreover, oncolytic viruses specifically replicating in and killing tumor cells have been used as such for tumor eradication or in combination with tumor killing or immunostimulatory genes. In a broad meaning, vaccines against infectious diseases and various cancers can be considered gene therapy, which has been highly successful, not the least for the development of effective COVID-19 vaccines. Viral vector-based gene therapy has also demonstrated encouraging and promising results for chronic diseases such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), muscular dystrophy, and hemophilia. Preclinical gene therapy studies in animal models have demonstrated proof-of-concept for a wide range of disease indications. Clinical evaluation of drugs and vaccines in humans has showed high safety levels, good tolerance, and therapeutic efficacy. Several gene therapy drugs such as the adenovirus-based drug Gendicine® for non-small-cell lung cancer, the reovirus-based drug Reolysin® for ovarian cancer, lentivirus-based treatment of SCID-X1 disease, and the rhabdovirus-based vaccine Ervebo against Ebola virus disease, and adenovirus-based vaccines against COVID-19 have been developed.
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11
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Vandghanooni S, Eskandani M, Sanaat Z, Omidi Y. Recent advances in the production, reprogramming, and application of CAR-T cells for treating hematological malignancies. Life Sci 2022; 309:121016. [PMID: 36179813 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
As genetically engineered cells, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells express specific receptors on their surface to target and eliminate malignant cells. CAR proteins are equipped with elements that enhance the activity and survival of T cells. Once injected, CAR-T cells act as a "living drug" against tumor cells in the body. Up to now, CAR-T cell therapy has been demonstrated as a robust adoptive cell transfer (ACT) immunotherapeutic modality for eliminating tumor cells in refractory hematological malignancies. CAR-T cell therapy modality involves several steps, including the collecting of the blood from patients, the isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), the enrichment of CD4+/CD8+ T cell, the genetic reprogramming, the expansion of modified T cells, and the injection of genetically engineered T cells. The production of CAR-T cells is a multi-step procedure, which needs precise and safety management systems, including good manufacturing practice (GMP), and in-line quality control and assurance. The current study describes the structure of CARs and concentrates on the next generations of CARs that are engaged in enhancing the anti-tumor responses and safety of the engineered T cells. This paper also highlights the important concerns in quality control and nonclinical research of CAR-T cells, as well as general insights into the manufacture, reprogramming, and application of CAR-T cells based on new and enhanced techniques for treating hematological malignancies. Besides, the application of the CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology and nanocarrier-based delivery systems containing CAR coding sequences to overcome the limitations of CAR-T cell therapy has also been explained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Vandghanooni
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Morteza Eskandani
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Sanaat
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yadollah Omidi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
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12
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Tada T, Norton TD, Leibowitz R, Landau NR. Directly injected lentiviral vector-based T cell vaccine protects mice against acute and chronic viral infection. JCI Insight 2022; 7:161598. [PMID: 35972807 PMCID: PMC9675446 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.161598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Lentiviral vector–based dendritic cell vaccines induce protective T cell responses against viral infection and cancer in animal models. In this study, we tested whether preventative and therapeutic vaccination could be achieved by direct injection of antigen-expressing lentiviral vector, obviating the need for ex vivo transduction of dendritic cells. Injected lentiviral vector preferentially transduced splenic dendritic cells and resulted in long-term expression. Injection of a lentiviral vector encoding an MHC class I–restricted T cell epitope of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and CD40 ligand induced an antigen-specific cytolytic CD8+ T lymphocyte response that protected the mice from infection. The injection of chronically infected mice with a lentiviral vector encoding LCMV MHC class I and II T cell epitopes and a soluble programmed cell death 1 microbody rapidly cleared the virus. Vaccination by direct injection of lentiviral vector was more effective in sterile alpha motif and HD-domain containing protein 1–knockout (SAMHD1-knockout) mice, suggesting that lentiviral vectors containing Vpx, a lentiviral protein that increases the efficiency of dendritic cell transduction by inducing the degradation of SAMHD1, would be an effective strategy for the treatment of chronic disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Tada
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, United States of America
| | - Thomas D Norton
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Leibowitz
- Department of Microbiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, United States of America
| | - Nathaniel R Landau
- Department of Microbiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, United States of America
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13
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Genetic therapeutic advancements for Dravet Syndrome. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 132:108741. [PMID: 35653814 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Dravet Syndrome is a genetic epileptic syndrome characterized by severe and intractable seizures associated with cognitive, motor, and behavioral impairments. The disease is also linked with increased mortality mainly due to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. Over 80% of cases are due to a de novo mutation in one allele of the SCN1A gene, which encodes the α-subunit of the voltage-gated ion channel NaV1.1. Dravet Syndrome is usually refractory to antiepileptic drugs, which only alleviate seizures to a small extent. Viral, non-viral genetic therapy, and gene editing tools are rapidly enhancing and providing new platforms for more effective, alternative medicinal treatments for Dravet syndrome. These strategies include gene supplementation, CRISPR-mediated transcriptional activation, and the use of antisense oligonucleotides. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of novel genetic therapies that are currently under development for Dravet syndrome.
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14
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Plasma-Enabled Smart Nanoexosome Platform as Emerging Immunopathogenesis for Clinical Viral Infection. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14051054. [PMID: 35631640 PMCID: PMC9145689 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Smart nanoexosomes are nanosized structures enclosed in lipid bilayers that are structurally similar to the viruses released by a variety of cells, including the cells lining the respiratory system. Of particular importance, the interaction between smart nanoexosomes and viruses can be used to develop antiviral drugs and vaccines. It is possible that nanoexosomes will be utilized and antibodies will be acquired more successfully for the transmission of an immune response if reconvalescent plasma (CP) is used instead of reconvalescent plasma exosomes (CPExo) in this concept. Convalescent plasma contains billions of smart nanoexosomes capable of transporting a variety of molecules, including proteins, lipids, RNA and DNA among other viral infections. Smart nanoexosomes are released from virus-infected cells and play an important role in mediating communication between infected and uninfected cells. Infections use the formation, production and release of smart nanoexosomes to enhance the infection, transmission and intercellular diffusion of viruses. Cell-free smart nanoexosomes produced by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could also be used as cell-free therapies in certain cases. Smart nanoexosomes produced by mesenchymal stem cells can also promote mitochondrial function and heal lung injury. They can reduce cytokine storms and restore the suppression of host antiviral defenses weakened by viral infections. This study examines the benefits of smart nanoexosomes and their roles in viral transmission, infection, treatment, drug delivery and clinical applications. We also explore some potential future applications for smart nanoexosomes in the treatment of viral infections.
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15
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Engineering Novel Lentiviral Vectors for Labelling Tumour Cells and Oncogenic Proteins. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9030091. [PMID: 35324780 PMCID: PMC8945451 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9030091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Lentiviral vectors are unique and highly efficient genetic tools to incorporate genetic materials into the genome of a variety of cells whilst conserving biosafety. Their rapid acceptance made it necessary to improve existing protocols, including molecular engineering and cloning, production of purified lentiviral particles, and efficient infection of target cells. In addition to traditional protocols, which can be time-consuming, several biotechnology companies are providing scientists with commercially available lentiviral constructs and particles. However, these constructs are limited by their original form, tend to be costly, and lack the flexibility to re-engineer based on the ever-changing needs of scientific projects. Therefore, the current study organizes the existing methods and integrates them with novel ideas to establish a protocol that is simple and efficient to implement. In this study we, (i) generated an innovative site-directed nucleotide attachment/replacement and DNA insertion method using unique PCR primers, (ii) improved traditional methods by integrating plasmid clarification steps, (iii) utilized endogenous mRNA as a resource to construct new lentiviruses, and (iv) identified an existing purification method and incorporated it into an organized workflow to produce high-yield lentiviral particle collection. Finally, (v) we verified and demonstrated the functional validity of our methods using an infection strategy.
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16
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Lundstrom K. Self-replicating vehicles based on negative strand RNA viruses. Cancer Gene Ther 2022:10.1038/s41417-022-00436-7. [PMID: 35169298 PMCID: PMC8853047 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-022-00436-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Self-replicating RNA viruses have been engineered as efficient expression vectors for vaccine development for infectious diseases and cancers. Moreover, self-replicating RNA viral vectors, particularly oncolytic viruses, have been applied for cancer therapy and immunotherapy. Among negative strand RNA viruses, measles viruses and rhabdoviruses have been frequently applied for vaccine development against viruses such as Chikungunya virus, Lassa virus, Ebola virus, influenza virus, HIV, Zika virus, and coronaviruses. Immunization of rodents and primates has elicited strong neutralizing antibody responses and provided protection against lethal challenges with pathogenic viruses. Several clinical trials have been conducted. Ervebo, a vaccine based on a vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) vector has been approved for immunization of humans against Ebola virus. Different types of cancers such as brain, breast, cervical, lung, leukemia/lymphoma, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic, and melanoma, have been the targets for cancer vaccine development, cancer gene therapy, and cancer immunotherapy. Administration of measles virus and VSV vectors have demonstrated immune responses, tumor regression, and tumor eradication in various animal models. A limited number of clinical trials have shown well-tolerated treatment, good safety profiles, and dose-dependent activity in cancer patients.
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17
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Desole C, Gallo S, Vitacolonna A, Vigna E, Basilico C, Montarolo F, Zuppini F, Casanova E, Miggiano R, Ferraris DM, Bertolotto A, Comoglio PM, Crepaldi T. Engineering, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of an Antibody Targeting the HGF Receptor. Front Immunol 2021; 12:775151. [PMID: 34925346 PMCID: PMC8679783 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.775151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor (MET) promote several physiological activities such as tissue regeneration and protection from cell injury of epithelial, endothelial, neuronal and muscle cells. The therapeutic potential of MET activation has been scrutinized in the treatment of acute tissue injury, chronic inflammation, such as renal fibrosis and multiple sclerosis (MS), cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. On the other hand, the HGF-MET signaling pathway may be caught by cancer cells and turned to work for invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance in the tumor microenvironment. Here, we engineered a recombinant antibody (RDO24) and two derived fragments, binding the extracellular domain (ECD) of the MET protein. The antibody binds with high affinity (8 nM) to MET ECD and does not cross-react with the closely related receptors RON nor with Semaphorin 4D. Deletion mapping studies and computational modeling show that RDO24 binds to the structure bent on the Plexin-Semaphorin-Integrin (PSI) domain, implicating the PSI domain in its binding to MET. The intact RDO24 antibody and the bivalent Fab2, but not the monovalent Fab induce MET auto-phosphorylation, mimicking the mechanism of action of HGF that activates the receptor by dimerization. Accordingly, the bivalent recombinant molecules induce HGF biological responses, such as cell migration and wound healing, behaving as MET agonists of therapeutic interest in regenerative medicine. In vivo administration of RDO24 in the murine model of MS, represented by experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), delays the EAE onset, mitigates the early clinical symptoms, and reduces inflammatory infiltrates. Altogether, these results suggest that engineered RDO24 antibody may be beneficial in multiple sclerosis and possibly other types of inflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Desole
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Simona Gallo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Candiolo, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Annapia Vitacolonna
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Candiolo, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Elisa Vigna
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Candiolo, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Montarolo
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, Italy.,Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | - Riccardo Miggiano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.,IXTAL srl, Novara, Italy
| | - Davide Maria Ferraris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.,IXTAL srl, Novara, Italy
| | | | | | - Tiziana Crepaldi
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Candiolo, Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
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18
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Moreira A, Faria T, Oliveira J, Kavara A, Schofield M, Sanderson T, Collins M, Gantier R, Alves P, Carrondo M, Peixoto C. Enhancing the purification of Lentiviral vectors for clinical applications. Sep Purif Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2021.118598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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19
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Designing Lentiviral Vectors for Gene Therapy of Genetic Diseases. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081526. [PMID: 34452394 PMCID: PMC8402868 DOI: 10.3390/v13081526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lentiviral vectors are the most frequently used tool to stably transfer and express genes in the context of gene therapy for monogenic diseases. The vast majority of clinical applications involves an ex vivo modality whereby lentiviral vectors are used to transduce autologous somatic cells, obtained from patients and re-delivered to patients after transduction. Examples are hematopoietic stem cells used in gene therapy for hematological or neurometabolic diseases or T cells for immunotherapy of cancer. We review the design and use of lentiviral vectors in gene therapy of monogenic diseases, with a focus on controlling gene expression by transcriptional or post-transcriptional mechanisms in the context of vectors that have already entered a clinical development phase.
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20
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Anti-CD19 CARs displayed at the surface of lentiviral vector particles promote transduction of target-expressing cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 21:42-53. [PMID: 33768128 PMCID: PMC7966970 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Recently, a rare type of relapse was reported upon treating a B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) patient with anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells caused by unintentional transduction of residual malignant B cells (CAR-B cells). We show that anti-CD19 and anti-CD20 CARs are presented on the surface of lentiviral vectors (LVs), inducing specific binding to the respective antigen. Binding of anti-CD19 CAR-encoding LVs containing supernatant was reduced by CD19-specific blocking antibodies in a dose-dependent manner, and binding was absent for unspecific LV containing supernatant. This suggests that LVs bind via displayed CAR molecules to CAR antigen-expressing cells. The relevance for CAR-T cell manufacturing was evaluated when PBMCs and B-ALL malignant B cells were mixed and transduced with anti-CD19 or anti-CD20 CAR-displaying LVs in clinically relevant doses to mimic transduction conditions of unpurified patient leukapheresis samples. Malignant B cells were transduced at higher levels with LVs displaying anti-CD19 CARs compared to LVs displaying non-binding control constructs. Stability of gene transfer was confirmed by applying a potent LV inhibitor and long-term cultures for 10 days. Our findings provide a potential explanation for the emergence of CAR-B cells pointing to safer manufacturing procedures with reduced risk of this rare type of relapse in the future.
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21
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Canfield SL. Decoding gene therapy: Current impact and future considerations for health-system and specialty pharmacy practice. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2021; 78:953-961. [PMID: 33677501 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxab064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide health systems with baseline knowledge on existing and pipeline gene therapy treatments, including considerations that health-system pharmacies and specialty pharmacy programs may reference when evaluating and implementing services around gene therapies. SUMMARY Advancements in research and biotechnology have recently led to the development and launch of the first commercially available gene therapy treatments in the United States. These treatments have the ability to significantly alter and even effectively cure diseases. Alongside these significant advances and clinical benefits, these therapies present unique challenges due to their cost and complexity. Given the large number of additional gene therapy treatments that are currently in late-stage clinical development, stakeholders across the healthcare industry must increasingly adapt and ready themselves to meet these challenges. The diagnosis and treatment of patients with diseases being targeted by gene therapies largely occurs within health systems, and judging by the gene therapy pipeline, this trend is likely to continue. To prepare for these novel treatments, health systems must understand and consider the methods in which gene therapies are developed, procured, reimbursed, administered, and monitored. CONCLUSION The future of health-system pharmacy practice must include comprehensive gene therapy services and stakeholder engagement strategies to ensure patients have access to these life-changing treatments.
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22
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Schellinger IN, Dannert AR, Mattern K, Raaz U, Tsao PS. Unresolved Issues in RNA Therapeutics in Vascular Diseases With a Focus on Aneurysm Disease. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:571076. [PMID: 33937351 PMCID: PMC8081859 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.571076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
New technologies have greatly shaped the scientific and medical landscape within the last years. The unprecedented expansion of data and information on RNA biology has led to the discovery of new RNA classes with unique functions and unexpected modifications. Today, the biggest challenge is to transfer the large number of findings in basic RNA biology into corresponding clinical RNA-based therapeutics. Lately, this research begins to yield positive outcomes. RNA drugs advance to the final phases of clinical trials or even receive FDA approval. Furthermore, the introduction of the RNA-guided gene-editing technology CRISPR and advances in the delivery of messenger RNAs have triggered a major progression in the field of RNA-therapeutics. Especially short interfering RNAs and antisense oligonucleotides are promising examples for novel categories of therapeutics. However, several issues need to be addressed including intracellular delivery, toxicity, and immune responses before utilizing RNAs in a clinical setting. In this review, we provide an overview on opportunities and challenges for clinical translation of RNA-based therapeutics, with an emphasis on advances in novel delivery technologies and abdominal aortic aneurysm disease where non-coding RNAs have been shown to play a crucial regulatory role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel N Schellinger
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Heart Center at the University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) e.V., Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Department for Endocrinology, Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Leipzig, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Department for Angiology, University Medical Center Leipzig, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Angelika R Dannert
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Heart Center at the University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Karin Mattern
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Heart Center at the University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) e.V., Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Uwe Raaz
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Heart Center at the University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) e.V., Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Philip S Tsao
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States.,Veteran Affairs (VA) Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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23
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Lundstrom K. Viral Vectors for COVID-19 Vaccine Development. Viruses 2021; 13:317. [PMID: 33669550 PMCID: PMC7922679 DOI: 10.3390/v13020317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine development against SARS-CoV-2 has been fierce due to the devastating COVID-19 pandemic and has included all potential approaches for providing the global community with safe and efficient vaccine candidates in the shortest possible timeframe. Viral vectors have played a central role especially using adenovirus-based vectors. Additionally, other viral vectors based on vaccinia viruses, measles viruses, rhabdoviruses, influenza viruses and lentiviruses have been subjected to vaccine development. Self-amplifying RNA virus vectors have been utilized for lipid nanoparticle-based delivery of RNA as COVID-19 vaccines. Several adenovirus-based vaccine candidates have elicited strong immune responses in immunized animals and protection against challenges in mice and primates has been achieved. Moreover, adenovirus-based vaccine candidates have been subjected to phase I to III clinical trials. Recently, the simian adenovirus-based ChAdOx1 vector expressing the SARS-CoV-2 S spike protein was approved for use in humans in the UK.
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24
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Bouazzaoui A, Abdellatif AAH, Al-Allaf FA, Bogari NM, Al-Dehlawi S, Qari SH. Strategies for Vaccination: Conventional Vaccine Approaches Versus New-Generation Strategies in Combination with Adjuvants. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13020140. [PMID: 33499096 PMCID: PMC7911318 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The current COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has raised significant economic, social, and psychological concerns. The rapid spread of the virus, coupled with the absence of vaccines and antiviral treatments for SARS-CoV-2, has galvanized a major global endeavor to develop effective vaccines. Within a matter of just a few months of the initial outbreak, research teams worldwide, adopting a range of different strategies, embarked on a quest to develop effective vaccine that could be effectively used to suppress this virulent pathogen. In this review, we describe conventional approaches to vaccine development, including strategies employing proteins, peptides, and attenuated or inactivated pathogens in combination with adjuvants (including genetic adjuvants). We also present details of the novel strategies that were adopted by different research groups to successfully transfer recombinantly expressed antigens while using viral vectors (adenoviral and retroviral) and non-viral delivery systems, and how recently developed methods have been applied in order to produce vaccines that are based on mRNA, self-amplifying RNA (saRNA), and trans-amplifying RNA (taRNA). Moreover, we discuss the methods that are being used to enhance mRNA stability and protein production, the advantages and disadvantages of different methods, and the challenges that are encountered during the development of effective vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdellatif Bouazzaoui
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, P.O. Box 715, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (F.A.A.-A.); (N.M.B.)
- Science and Technology Unit, Umm Al Qura University, P.O. Box 715, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: or
| | - Ahmed A. H. Abdellatif
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut 71524, Egypt
| | - Faisal A. Al-Allaf
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, P.O. Box 715, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (F.A.A.-A.); (N.M.B.)
- Science and Technology Unit, Umm Al Qura University, P.O. Box 715, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Laboratory and Blood Bank, Molecular Diagnostics Unit, King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neda M. Bogari
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, P.O. Box 715, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia; (F.A.A.-A.); (N.M.B.)
| | | | - Sameer H. Qari
- Biology Department, Aljumum University College, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia;
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25
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Lundstrom K. Application of Viral Vectors for Vaccine Development with a Special Emphasis on COVID-19. Viruses 2020; 12:E1324. [PMID: 33218001 PMCID: PMC7698750 DOI: 10.3390/v12111324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral vectors can generate high levels of recombinant protein expression providing the basis for modern vaccine development. A large number of different viral vector expression systems have been utilized for targeting viral surface proteins and tumor-associated antigens. Immunization studies in preclinical animal models have evaluated the elicited humoral and cellular responses and the possible protection against challenges with lethal doses of infectious pathogens or tumor cells. Several vaccine candidates for both infectious diseases and various cancers have been subjected to a number of clinical trials. Human immunization trials have confirmed safe application of viral vectors, generation of neutralizing antibodies and protection against challenges with lethal doses. A special emphasis is placed on COVID-19 vaccines based on viral vectors. Likewise, the flexibility and advantages of applying viral particles, RNA replicons and DNA replicon vectors of self-replicating RNA viruses for vaccine development are presented.
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26
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Hromic-Jahjefendic A, Lundstrom K. Viral Vector-Based Melanoma Gene Therapy. Biomedicines 2020; 8:E60. [PMID: 32187995 PMCID: PMC7148454 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8030060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy applications of oncolytic viruses represent an attractive alternative for cancer treatment. A broad range of oncolytic viruses, including adenoviruses, adeno-associated viruses, alphaviruses, herpes simplex viruses, retroviruses, lentiviruses, rhabdoviruses, reoviruses, measles virus, Newcastle disease virus, picornaviruses and poxviruses, have been used in diverse preclinical and clinical studies for the treatment of various diseases, including colon, head-and-neck, prostate and breast cancer as well as squamous cell carcinoma and glioma. The majority of studies have focused on immunotherapy and several drugs based on viral vectors have been approved. However, gene therapy for malignant melanoma based on viral vectors has not been utilized to its full potential yet. This review represents a summary of the achievements of preclinical and clinical studies using viral vectors, with the focus on malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Altijana Hromic-Jahjefendic
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, International University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
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27
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Cousin C, Oberkampf M, Felix T, Rosenbaum P, Weil R, Fabrega S, Morante V, Negri D, Cara A, Dadaglio G, Leclerc C. Persistence of Integrase-Deficient Lentiviral Vectors Correlates with the Induction of STING-Independent CD8 + T Cell Responses. Cell Rep 2020; 26:1242-1257.e7. [PMID: 30699352 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Lentiviruses are among the most promising viral vectors for in vivo gene delivery. To overcome the risk of insertional mutagenesis, integrase-deficient lentiviral vectors (IDLVs) have been developed. We show here that strong and persistent specific cytotoxic T cell (CTL) responses are induced by IDLVs, which persist several months after a single injection. These responses were associated with the induction of mild and transient maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) and with the production of low levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. They were independent of the IFN-I, TLR/MyD88, interferon regulatory factor (IRF), retinoic acid induced gene I (RIG-I), and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathways but require NF-κB signaling in CD11c+ DCs. Despite the lack of integration of IDLVs, the transgene persists for 3 months in the spleen and liver of IDLV-injected mice. These results demonstrate that the capacity of IDLVs to trigger persistent adaptive responses is mediated by a weak and transient innate response, along with the persistence of the vector in tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Cousin
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Régulation Immunitaire et Vaccinologie, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM U1041, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Marine Oberkampf
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Régulation Immunitaire et Vaccinologie, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM U1041, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Tristan Felix
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Régulation Immunitaire et Vaccinologie, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM U1041, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Pierre Rosenbaum
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Régulation Immunitaire et Vaccinologie, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM U1041, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Robert Weil
- Institut Pasteur, Unité Signalisation et Pathogénèse, Département Biologie Cellulaire et Infection, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Fabrega
- Plateforme Vecteurs Viraux et Transfert de Gènes, SFR Necker, US 24, UMS 3633, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Valeria Morante
- Department of Infection Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Negri
- Department of Infection Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Cara
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Gilles Dadaglio
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Régulation Immunitaire et Vaccinologie, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM U1041, 75015 Paris, France.
| | - Claude Leclerc
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Régulation Immunitaire et Vaccinologie, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM U1041, 75015 Paris, France.
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28
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Fischer J, Heide M, Huttner WB. Genetic Modification of Brain Organoids. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:558. [PMID: 31920558 PMCID: PMC6928125 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids have become increasingly used systems allowing 3D-modeling of human brain development, evolution, and disease. To be able to make full use of these modeling systems, researchers have developed a growing toolkit of genetic modification techniques. These techniques can be applied to mature brain organoids or to the preceding embryoid bodies (EBs) and founding cells. This review will describe techniques used for transient and stable genetic modification of brain organoids and discuss their current use and respective advantages and disadvantages. Transient approaches include adeno-associated virus (AAV) and electroporation-based techniques, whereas stable genetic modification approaches make use of lentivirus (including viral stamping), transposon and CRISPR/Cas9 systems. Finally, an outlook as to likely future developments and applications regarding genetic modifications of brain organoids will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Fischer
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Heide
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
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29
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Tomás HA, Mestre DA, Rodrigues AF, Guerreiro MR, Carrondo MJT, Coroadinha AS. Improved GaLV-TR Glycoproteins to Pseudotype Lentiviral Vectors: Impact of Viral Protease Activity in the Production of LV Pseudotypes. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2019; 15:1-8. [PMID: 31528654 PMCID: PMC6742969 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Lentiviral vectors (LVs) are excellent tools for gene transfer into mammalian cells. It is noteworthy that the first gene therapy treatment using LVs was approved for commercialization in 2017. The G glycoprotein from rhabdovirus vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV-G) is the glycoprotein most used to pseudotype LVs, due to its high efficiency in transducing several cell types and its resistance to viral vector purification and storage conditions. However, VSV-G expression induces cytotoxicity, which limits LV production to short periods. As alternative to VSV-G, γ-retrovirus glycoproteins (4070A derived, GaLV derived, and RD114 derived) have been used to pseudotype both γ-retroviral vectors (RVs) and LVs. These glycoproteins do not induce cytotoxicity, allowing the development of stable LV producer cells. Additionally, these LV pseudotypes present higher transduction efficiencies of hematopoietic stem cells when compared to VSV-G. Here, new 4070A-, RD114-TR-, and GaLV-TR-derived glycoproteins were developed with the aim of improving its cytoplasmic tail R-peptide cleavage and thus increase LV infectious titers. The new glycoproteins were tested in transient LV production using the wild-type or the less active T26S HIV-1 protease. The GaLV-TR-derived glycoproteins were able to overcome titer differences observed between LV production using wild-type and T26S protease. Additionally, these glycoproteins were even able to increase LV titers, evidencing its potential as an alternative glycoprotein to pseudotype LVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélio A Tomás
- iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal.,Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Daniel A Mestre
- iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal.,Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana F Rodrigues
- iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal.,Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Miguel R Guerreiro
- iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal.,Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Manuel J T Carrondo
- iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal.,Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Coroadinha
- iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Apartado 12, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal.,Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal.,The Discoveries Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, New University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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30
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A ghrelin receptor and oxytocin receptor heterocomplex impairs oxytocin mediated signalling. Neuropharmacology 2019; 152:90-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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31
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Abstract
In the wake of a breakthrough in biotechnology providing realistic application of recombinant expressed proteins as drugs in the 1990s, gene therapy emerged as the potential approach for providing medicines of the future [...].
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32
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RNA Viruses as Tools in Gene Therapy and Vaccine Development. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10030189. [PMID: 30832256 PMCID: PMC6471356 DOI: 10.3390/genes10030189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA viruses have been subjected to substantial engineering efforts to support gene therapy applications and vaccine development. Typically, retroviruses, lentiviruses, alphaviruses, flaviviruses rhabdoviruses, measles viruses, Newcastle disease viruses, and picornaviruses have been employed as expression vectors for treatment of various diseases including different types of cancers, hemophilia, and infectious diseases. Moreover, vaccination with viral vectors has evaluated immunogenicity against infectious agents and protection against challenges with pathogenic organisms. Several preclinical studies in animal models have confirmed both immune responses and protection against lethal challenges. Similarly, administration of RNA viral vectors in animals implanted with tumor xenografts resulted in tumor regression and prolonged survival, and in some cases complete tumor clearance. Based on preclinical results, clinical trials have been conducted to establish the safety of RNA virus delivery. Moreover, stem cell-based lentiviral therapy provided life-long production of factor VIII potentially generating a cure for hemophilia A. Several clinical trials on cancer patients have generated anti-tumor activity, prolonged survival, and even progression-free survival.
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33
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Chen X, Chen Y, Shen X, Zuo J, Guo H. The Improvement and Application of Lentivirus-Mediated Gene Transfer and Expression System in Penaeid Shrimp Cells. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2019; 21:9-18. [PMID: 30542951 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-018-9862-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study first reported the improvement and application of lentivirus-mediated gene transfer and expression system in shrimp cells. After modified by the inclusion of two envelope proteins (VP19 and VP28) of shrimp white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) into the envelope of the packaged lentivirus, and insertion of a truncated promoter of immediate-early gene 1 (Pie1-504) of shrimp WSSV virus into the lentiviral reporter plasmid, the second-generation lentiviral expression system (pLVX-PEF1α-IRES-mCherry, psPAX2, and PMD2.G) was found to behave better in the mitosis-arrested shrimp cells than the similarly modified retrovirus expression system did. Results from the insect sf9 cells indicated that the inclusion of VP19 and VP28 into the envelope of packaged lentiviruses could significantly improve the tropism or infectivity of the modified lentiviruses to insect cells in a cumulative way. Notably, the VP28 contributed about 86% of the total increase of the tropism. In the shrimp primary lymphoid cells infected by modified lentivirus IV with both VP19 and VP28 included, the infection efficiency was up to 11% (non-confocal) and 19% (confocal) and no background fluorescent signal was observed. However, background fluorescent signal was observed in the shrimp primary Oka organ cells although only under a confocal microscope. In the lentivirus IV-infected Oka organ cells, the actual infection efficiencies were calculated up to 8% (non-confocal) and 19% (confocal), significantly higher than those of commercial intact lentivirus I of 0 (non-confocal) and 3% (confocal). The insertion of WSSV promoter (Pie1-504) had interrupted the effective expression of reporter plasmid encoding lentiviral construct of pLVX-PEF1α-Pie1-504-IRES-mCherry in the HEK293T cells, but markedly increased its efficiencies up to 14% (non-confocal) and 26% (confocal) in the Oka organ cells. This improved lentivirus expression system will provide us a useful tool for efficient gene transfer and expression in shrimp cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yueru Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Xiaotong Shen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jianwei Zuo
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Huarong Guo
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China.
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34
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Yang M, Wang M, Li X, Xie Y, Xia X, Tian J, Zhang K, Chen F, Song H, Dong Z, Tang A. Inhibition of constructed SEC3-ES lentiviral vector to proliferation, migration of Hela cells. Pathol Res Pract 2018; 215:315-321. [PMID: 30554865 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2018.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM To construct a lentiviral vector with endostatin (ES) and staphylococcal enterotoxin C3(SEC3) gene, and investigate its capacities of inhibition on proliferation and migration of Hela cells. METHODS By inserting ES and SEC3 gene into the plasmid and then transfect 293 T cell, the co-expressed (SEC3-ES) vector were constructed. A series of experiments in vitro were carried out to detect its anti-tumor capacity. RESULTS SEC3 expression of the vector is about 3 times of GV365-SEC3 vector, and ES expression is over 22.5-fold compared with GV365-ES vector. Moreover, OD490 value of CO group (1.212 ± 0.003) was notably lower than NC (negative control) group (1.124 ± 0.01) (P < 0.05) in MTT assay. Cell cycle analysis showed it could block Hela cells in S phase. Meanwhile, in wound healing assay, cells of CO group migrated at a slower rate (0.59 ± 0.02) compared with NC group (0.65 ± 0.02)(P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The successful construction of co-expressed vector lays the foundation for further studies in vivo. These promising results suggest a new strategy to treating cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
| | - Xianping Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Yixin Xie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Xiaomeng Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Jingjing Tian
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Kan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Huan Song
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Zhihui Dong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Aiguo Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
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35
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Zhu L, Dissanayaka WL, Zhang C. Dental pulp stem cells overexpressing stromal-derived factor-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor in dental pulp regeneration. Clin Oral Investig 2018; 23:2497-2509. [PMID: 30315421 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-018-2699-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The current study aimed to investigate the effects of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α) overexpressing dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in vascularized dental pulp regeneration in vivo. MATERIALS AND METHODS Human DPSCs were transfected with VEGF or SDF-1α using premade lentiviral particles. Overexpression was verified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and western blot analysis. Effects of SDF-1α and VEGF overexpressing DPSCs on their proliferation (CCK-8 and MTT assays) and endothelial vascular-tube formation (Matrigel assay) were investigated in vitro. Human tooth roots sectioned into 6-mm segments were injected with gene-modified DPSCs encapsulated in PuraMatrix hydrogel and implanted in the dorsum of severe-combined-immunodeficient (SCID) mice. Implants were retrieved after 4 weeks and examined for regenerated pulp-like tissue and vascularization using histology and immunohistochemistry. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Gene-modified DPSCs expressed significantly high levels (p < 0.05) of SDF-1α and VEGF mRNA and proteins, respectively. Transfected DPSCs showed a significantly higher cell proliferation compared to that of wild-type DPSCs. Furthermore, they enhanced endothelial cell migration and vascular-tube formation on Matrigel in vitro. When injected into tooth root canals and implanted in vivo, DPSCs/SDF-1α + DPSCs/VEGF-mixed group resulted in significantly increased length of regenerated pulp-like tissue within the root canals compared to that of wild-type DPSCs/VEGF and DPSCs/SDF-1α groups. Vessel area density was significantly higher in DPSCs/SDF-1α and mixed DPSCs/SDF-1α + DPSCs/VEGF groups than in DPSCs-VEGF alone or wild-type DPSCs groups. CONCLUSION A combination of VEGF-overexpressing and SDF-1α-overexpressing DPSCs could enhance the area of vascularized dental pulp regeneration in vivo. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Enhancing vascularization in pulp regeneration is crucial to overcome the clinical limitation of the limited blood supply to the root canals via a small apical foramen enclosed by hard dentin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifang Zhu
- Endodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, 3A15, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, 34, Hospital Road, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | | | - Chengfei Zhang
- Endodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, 3A15, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, 34, Hospital Road, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
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A Dairy-Derived Ghrelinergic Hydrolysate Modulates Food Intake In Vivo. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092780. [PMID: 30223587 PMCID: PMC6165545 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent times have seen an increasing move towards harnessing the health-promoting benefits of food and dietary constituents while providing scientific evidence to substantiate their claims. In particular, the potential for bioactive protein hydrolysates and peptides to enhance health in conjunction with conventional pharmaceutical therapy is being investigated. Dairy-derived proteins have been shown to contain bioactive peptide sequences with various purported health benefits, with effects ranging from the digestive system to cardiovascular circulation, the immune system and the central nervous system. Interestingly, the ability of dairy proteins to modulate metabolism and appetite has recently been reported. The ghrelin receptor (GHSR-1a) is a G-protein coupled receptor which plays a key role in the regulation of food intake. Pharmacological manipulation of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor-type 1a (GHSR-1a) receptor has therefore received a lot of attention as a strategy to combat disorders of appetite and body weight, including age-related malnutrition and the progressive muscle wasting syndrome known as cachexia. In this study, a milk protein-derivative is shown to increase GHSR-1a-mediated intracellular calcium signalling in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro. Significant increases in calcium mobilisation were also observed in a cultured neuronal cell line heterologously expressing the GHS-R1a. In addition, both additive and synergistic effects were observed following co-exposure of GHSR-1a to both the hydrolysate and ghrelin. Subsequent in vivo studies monitored standard chow intake in healthy male and female Sprague-Dawley rats after dosing with the casein hydrolysate (CasHyd). Furthermore, the provision of gastro-protected oral delivery to the bioactive in vivo may aid in the progression of in vitro efficacy to in vivo functionality. In summary, this study reports a ghrelin-stimulating bioactive peptide mixture (CasHyd) with potent effects in vitro. It also provides novel and valuable translational data supporting the potential role of CasHyd as an appetite-enhancing bioactive. Further mechanistic studies are required in order to confirm efficacy as a ghrelinergic bioactive in susceptible population groups.
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Migliore C, Morando E, Ghiso E, Anastasi S, Leoni VP, Apicella M, Cora' D, Sapino A, Pietrantonio F, De Braud F, Columbano A, Segatto O, Giordano S. miR-205 mediates adaptive resistance to MET inhibition via ERRFI1 targeting and raised EGFR signaling. EMBO Mol Med 2018; 10:e8746. [PMID: 30021798 PMCID: PMC6127885 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201708746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The onset of secondary resistance represents a major limitation to long-term efficacy of target therapies in cancer patients. Thus, the identification of mechanisms mediating secondary resistance is the key to the rational design of therapeutic strategies for resistant patients. MiRNA profiling combined with RNA-Seq in MET-addicted cancer cell lines led us to identify the miR-205/ERRFI1 (ERBB receptor feedback inhibitor-1) axis as a novel mediator of resistance to MET tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). In cells resistant to MET-TKIs, epigenetically induced miR-205 expression determined the downregulation of ERRFI1 which, in turn, caused EGFR activation, sustaining resistance to MET-TKIs. Anti-miR-205 transduction reverted crizotinib resistance in vivo, while miR-205 over-expression rendered wt cells refractory to TKI treatment. Importantly, in the absence of EGFR genetic alterations, miR-205/ERRFI1-driven EGFR activation rendered MET-TKI-resistant cells sensitive to combined MET/EGFR inhibition. As a proof of concept of the clinical relevance of this new mechanism of adaptive resistance, we report that a patient with a MET-amplified lung adenocarcinoma displayed deregulation of the miR-205/ERRFI1 axis in concomitance with onset of clinical resistance to anti-MET therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Migliore
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Elena Morando
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Elena Ghiso
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Sergio Anastasi
- Unit of Oncogenomics and Epigenetics, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Vera P Leoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Davide Cora'
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Piemonte Orientale University "Amedeo Avogadro", Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Sapino
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
- Department of Medical Science, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Filippo Pietrantonio
- Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo De Braud
- Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Amedeo Columbano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Oreste Segatto
- Unit of Oncogenomics and Epigenetics, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Giordano
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Candiolo, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Italy
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Lundstrom K. Viral Vectors in Gene Therapy. Diseases 2018; 6:diseases6020042. [PMID: 29883422 PMCID: PMC6023384 DOI: 10.3390/diseases6020042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 288] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Applications of viral vectors have found an encouraging new beginning in gene therapy in recent years. Significant improvements in vector engineering, delivery, and safety have placed viral vector-based therapy at the forefront of modern medicine. Viral vectors have been employed for the treatment of various diseases such as metabolic, cardiovascular, muscular, hematologic, ophthalmologic, and infectious diseases and different types of cancer. Recent development in the area of immunotherapy has provided both preventive and therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, gene silencing generating a reversible effect has become an interesting alternative, and is well-suited for delivery by viral vectors. A number of preclinical studies have demonstrated therapeutic and prophylactic efficacy in animal models and furthermore in clinical trials. Several viral vector-based drugs have also been globally approved.
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Ghiso E, Migliore C, Ciciriello V, Morando E, Petrelli A, Corso S, De Luca E, Gatti G, Volante M, Giordano S. YAP-Dependent AXL Overexpression Mediates Resistance to EGFR Inhibitors in NSCLC. Neoplasia 2017; 19:1012-1021. [PMID: 29136529 PMCID: PMC5683041 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a transcriptional co-activator upregulating genes that promote cell growth and inhibit apoptosis. The main dysregulation of the Hippo pathway in tumors is due to YAP overexpression, promoting epithelial to mesenchymal transition, cell transformation, and increased metastatic ability. Moreover, it has recently been shown that YAP plays a role in sustaining resistance to targeted therapies as well. In our work, we evaluated the role of YAP in acquired resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors in lung cancer. In EGFR-addicted lung cancer cell lines (HCC4006 and HCC827) rendered resistant to several EGFR inhibitors, we observed that resistance was associated to YAP activation. Indeed, YAP silencing impaired the maintenance of resistance, while YAP overexpression decreased the responsiveness to EGFR inhibitors in sensitive parental cells. In our models, we identified the AXL tyrosine kinase receptor as the main YAP downstream effector responsible for sustaining YAP-driven resistance: in fact, AXL expression was YAP dependent, and pharmacological or genetic AXL inhibition restored the sensitivity of resistant cells to the anti-EGFR drugs. Notably, YAP overactivation and AXL overexpression were identified in a lung cancer patient upon acquisition of resistance to EGFR TKIs, highlighting the clinical relevance of our in vitro results. The reported data demonstrate that YAP and its downstream target AXL play a crucial role in resistance to EGFR TKIs and suggest that a combined inhibition of EGFR and the YAP/AXL axis could be a good therapeutic option in selected NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ghiso
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy.
| | - Cristina Migliore
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy; University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Vito Ciciriello
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy; University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Elena Morando
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy; University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Annalisa Petrelli
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy; University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Simona Corso
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy; University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Emmanuele De Luca
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, San Luigi Hospital, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - Gaia Gatti
- Pathology Unit, San Luigi Hospital, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - Marco Volante
- University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy; Pathology Unit, San Luigi Hospital, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Giordano
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy; University of Torino, Department of Oncology, SP 142 km 3.95, 10060, Candiolo, Italy.
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Abstract
Gene therapy based on viral vectors has demonstrated steady progress recently, not only in the area of cancers. A multitude of viral vectors has been engineered for both preventive and therapeutic applications. Two main approaches comprise of viral vector-based delivery of toxic or anticancer genes or immunization with anticancer antigens. Tumor growth inhibition and tumor regression have been observed, providing improved survival rates in animal tumor models. Furthermore, vaccine-based cancer immunotherapy has demonstrated both tumor regression and protection against challenges with lethal doses of tumor cells. Several clinical trials with viral vectors have also been conducted. Additionally, viral vector-based cancer drugs have been approved. This review gives an overview of different viral vector systems and their applications in cancer gene therapy.
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41
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Athanasopoulos T, Munye MM, Yáñez-Muñoz RJ. Nonintegrating Gene Therapy Vectors. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2017; 31:753-770. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2017.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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42
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Hematopoietic Gene Therapies for Metabolic and Neurologic Diseases. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2017; 31:869-881. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Lin H, Tang Y, Lozito TP, Oyster N, Kang RB, Fritch MR, Wang B, Tuan RS. Projection Stereolithographic Fabrication of BMP-2 Gene-activated Matrix for Bone Tissue Engineering. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11327. [PMID: 28900122 PMCID: PMC5595921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11051-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, sustained in vivo delivery of active bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) protein to responsive target cells, such as bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), remains challenging. Ex vivo gene transfer method, while efficient, requires additional operation for cell culture and therefore, is not compatible with point-of-care treatment. In this study, two lentiviral gene constructs - (1) Lv-BMP/GFP, containing human BMP-2 and green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene (BMP group); or (2) Lv-GFP, containing GFP gene (GFP group) - were incorporated with human BMSCs into a solution of photocrosslinkable gelatin, which was then subjected to visible light-based projection stereolithographic printing to form a scaffold with desired architectures. Upon in vitro culture, compared to the GFP group, cells from BMP group showed >1,000-fold higher BMP-2 release, and the majority of them stained intensely for alkaline phosphatase activity. Real-time RT-PCR also showed dramatically increased expression of osteogenesis marker genes only in the BMP group. 3.5 months post-implantation into SCID mice, the micro-computed tomography imaging showed detectable mineralized areas only in the BMP group, which was restricted within the scaffolds. Alizarin red staining and immunohistochemistry of GFP and osteocalcin further indicated that the grafted hBMSCs, not host cells, contributed primarily to the newly formed bone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Lin
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
| | - Ying Tang
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
- Molecular Therapy Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
| | - Thomas P Lozito
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
| | - Nicholas Oyster
- Stem Cell Research Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
| | - Robert B Kang
- Molecular Therapy Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
| | - Madalyn R Fritch
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA
| | - Bing Wang
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA.
- Molecular Therapy Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA.
| | - Rocky S Tuan
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, USA.
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44
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Pavlovic M, Koehler N, Anton M, Dinkelmeier A, Haase M, Stellberger T, Busch U, Baiker AE. Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detection of and Differentiation Between RNA and DNA of HIV-1-Based Lentiviral Vectors. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2017; 28:215-221. [PMID: 28817345 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2017-081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the described method is the detection of and differentiation between RNA and DNA of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-derived lentiviral vectors (LV) in cell culture supernatants and swab samples. For the analytical surveillance of genetic engineering, operations methods for the detection of the HIV-1-based LV generations are required. Furthermore, for research issues, it is important to prove the absence of LV particles for downgrading experimental settings in terms of the biosafety level. Here, a quantitative polymerase chain reaction method targeting the long terminal repeat U5 subunit and the start sequence of the packaging signal ψ is described. Numerous controls are included in order to monitor the technical procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Pavlovic
- 1 Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Nina Koehler
- 1 Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Martina Anton
- 2 Institute of Experimental Oncology and Therapy Research and Institute of Molecular Immunology , Klinikum rechts der Isar der Technischen Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Dinkelmeier
- 1 Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Maren Haase
- 1 Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Busch
- 1 Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Armin E Baiker
- 1 Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleißheim, Germany
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Stahlhut M, Schambach A, Kustikova OS. Multimodal Lentiviral Vectors for Pharmacologically Controlled Switching Between Constitutive Single Gene Expression and Tetracycline-Regulated Multiple Gene Collaboration. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2017; 28:191-204. [PMID: 28683573 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2017.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multimodal lentiviral vectors (LVs) allow switching between constitutive and tetracycline-regulated gene co-expressions in genetically modified cells. Transduction of murine primary hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) with multimodal LVs in the absence of doxycycline ensures the constitutive expression of gene of interest 1 (GOI1) only. In the presence of doxycycline, induced tetracycline-regulated expression of a second GOI (GOI2) allows evaluation of the collaboration between two genes. Drug removal retains constitutive expression, which allows the contribution of an individual gene into created networks to be studied. Doxycycline-dependent switching can be tracked via fluorescent markers coupled to constitutive and tetracycline-regulated GOIs. This article describes transduction of murine primary HPCs with different doses of multimodal LVs, distinct cytokine conditions, and their influence on the number and viability of cells co-expressing both collaborating GOIs upon doxycycline induction. A 2-week protocol is provided for multimodal LV production, titer determination, and evaluation of tetracycline responsive promoter background activity in a murine fibroblast cell line. The power of this model to assess the dose/time/order-controlled contribution of single and multiple genes into hematopoietic networks opens new routes in reprogramming, stem cell, and leukemia biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Stahlhut
- 1 Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School , Hannover, Germany .,2 Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH, Hannover Medical School , Hannover, Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- 1 Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School , Hannover, Germany .,2 Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH, Hannover Medical School , Hannover, Germany .,3 Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Olga S Kustikova
- 1 Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School , Hannover, Germany .,2 Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH, Hannover Medical School , Hannover, Germany
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Kulemzin SV, Chikaev NA, Volkova OY, Kuznetsova VV, Taranin AV, Gorchakov AA. Modular lentiviral vector system for chimeric antigen receptor design optimization. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s1068162017020091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Heun Y, Hildebrand S, Heidsieck A, Gleich B, Anton M, Pircher J, Ribeiro A, Mykhaylyk O, Eberbeck D, Wenzel D, Pfeifer A, Woernle M, Krötz F, Pohl U, Mannell H. Targeting of Magnetic Nanoparticle-coated Microbubbles to the Vascular Wall Empowers Site-specific Lentiviral Gene Delivery in vivo. Theranostics 2017; 7:295-307. [PMID: 28042335 PMCID: PMC5197065 DOI: 10.7150/thno.16192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the field of vascular gene therapy, targeting systems are promising advancements to improve site-specificity of gene delivery. Here, we studied whether incorporation of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) with different magnetic properties into ultrasound sensitive microbubbles may represent an efficient way to enable gene targeting in the vascular system after systemic application. Thus, we associated novel silicon oxide-coated magnetic nanoparticle containing microbubbles (SO-Mag MMB) with lentiviral particles carrying therapeutic genes and determined their physico-chemical as well as biological properties compared to MMB coated with polyethylenimine-coated magnetic nanoparticles (PEI-Mag MMB). While there were no differences between both MMB types concerning size and lentivirus binding, SO-Mag MMB exhibited superior characteristics regarding magnetic moment, magnetizability as well as transduction efficiency under static and flow conditions in vitro. Focal disruption of lentiviral SO-Mag MMB by ultrasound within isolated vessels exposed to an external magnetic field decisively improved localized VEGF expression in aortic endothelium ex vivo and enhanced the angiogenic response. Using the same system in vivo, we achieved a highly effective, site-specific lentiviral transgene expression in microvessels of the mouse dorsal skin after arterial injection. Thus, we established a novel lentiviral MMB technique, which has great potential towards site-directed vascular gene therapy.
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Abstract
Safe, effective approaches for bone regeneration are needed to reverse bone loss caused by trauma, disease, and tumor resection. Unfortunately, the science of bone regeneration is still in its infancy, with all current or emerging therapies having serious limitations. Unlike current regenerative therapies that use single regenerative factors, the natural processes of bone formation and repair require the coordinated expression of many molecules, including growth factors, bone morphogenetic proteins, and specific transcription factors. As will be developed in this article, future advances in bone regeneration will likely incorporate therapies that mimic critical aspects of these natural biological processes, using the tools of gene therapy and tissue engineering. This review will summarize current knowledge related to normal bone development and fracture repair, and will describe how gene therapy, in combination with tissue engineering, may mimic critical aspects of these natural processes. Current gene therapy approaches for bone regeneration will then be summarized, including recent work where combinatorial gene therapy was used to express groups of molecules that synergistically interacted to stimulate bone regeneration. Last, proposed future directions for this field will be discussed, where regulated gene expression systems will be combined with cells seeded in precise three-dimensional configurations on synthetic scaffolds to control both temporal and spatial distribution of regenerative factors. It is the premise of this article that such approaches will eventually allow us to achieve the ultimate goal of bone tissue engineering: to reconstruct entire bones with associated joints, ligaments, or sutures. Abbreviations used: BMP, bone morphogenetic protein; FGF, fibroblast growth factor; AER, apical ectodermal ridge; ZPA, zone of polarizing activity; PZ, progress zone; SHH, sonic hedgehog; OSX, osterix transcription factor; FGFR, fibroblast growth factor receptor; PMN, polymorphonuclear neutrophil; PDGF, platelet-derived growth factor; IGF, insulin-like growth factor; TGF-β, tumor-derived growth factor β; CAR, coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor; MLV, murine leukemia virus; HIV, human immunodeficiency virus; AAV, adeno-associated virus; CAT, computer-aided tomography; CMV, cytomegalovirus; GAM, gene-activated matrix; MSC, marrow stromal cell; MDSC, muscle-derived stem cell; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- R T Franceschi
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078, USA.
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Chung WY, Song M, Park J, Namkung W, Lee J, Kim H, Lee MG, Kim JY. Generation of ΔF508-CFTR T84 cell lines by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing. Biotechnol Lett 2016; 38:2023-2034. [DOI: 10.1007/s10529-016-2190-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Use of rhenium-188 for in vivo imaging and treatment of human cervical cancer cells transfected with lentivirus expressing sodium iodide symporter. Oncol Rep 2016; 36:2289-97. [PMID: 27573304 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.5034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Although survival rates for cervical cancer have improved, they need further improvement in patients with distant metastases. The sodium iodine symporter (NIS) gene has often been used in cancer therapy and imaging. We examined the therapeutic effects of rhenium-188 (188Re) in a cervical cancer xenograft model expressing the NIS gene under the control of the tumor-specific human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) promoter. We constructed two recombinant lentiviral vectors expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) or the NIS gene driven by the hTERT promoter. To determine the tumor-specific transcriptional activity of the hTERT promoter, the eGFP-expressing vector was stably transfected into tumor cells and normal cells. A cervical cancer HeLa cell line stably expressing NIS (HeLa-TERTNIS) was created and examined in a similar way. HeLa and HeLa-TERTNIS tumor xenografts were transplanted in nude mice, and in vivo 188Re distribution was measured using micro-SPECT/CT imaging. The therapeutic effects of 188Re were assessed over 21 days on the basis of tumor volume and the immunohistochemical findings of excised tumors. eGFP expression controlled by the hTERT promoter was substantially higher in the tumor cells than normal cells. Quantitative PCR and western blotting confirmed that HeLa-TERTNIS cells expressed high levels of NIS mRNA and protein, respectively. Further, 188Re uptake and accumulation were significantly higher in HeLa-TERTNIS cells and xenografts than HeLa cells and xenografts. In vitro and in vivo, 188Re significantly reduced the survival of HeLa-TERTNIS cells and inhibited the growth of HeLa-TERTNIS xenografts, respectively. Immunohistochemical staining showed that HeLa-TERTNIS xenograft tumors expressed higher levels of NIS and caspase-3 and lower levels of Ki-67 than HeLa xenograft tumors. Our findings indicated that hTERT promoter-driven expression of the NIS gene in HeLa cells led to 188Re uptake and therapeutic effects. Thus, NIS-based gene therapy and imaging using the hTERT promoter and 188Re may be possible.
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