1
|
Li YZ, Ji RR. Gene therapy for chronic pain management. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101756. [PMID: 39366385 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
Despite significant advances in identifying molecular targets for chronic pain over the past two decades, many remain difficult to target with traditional methods. Gene therapies such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR, and virus-based delivery systems have played crucial roles in discovering and validating new pain targets. While there has been a surge in gene therapy-based clinical trials, those focusing on pain as the primary outcome remain uncommon. This review examines various gene therapy strategies, including ASOs, small interfering RNA (siRNAs), optogenetics, chemogenetics, and CRISPR, and their delivery methods targeting primary sensory neurons and non-neuronal cells, including glia and chondrocytes. We also explore emerging gene therapy tools and highlight gene therapy's clinical potential in pain management, including trials targeting pain-related diseases. Advances in single-cell analysis of sensory neurons and non-neuronal cells, along with the development of new delivery tools, are poised to accelerate the application of gene therapy in pain medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ze Li
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ru-Rong Ji
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Departments of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Departments of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wu T, Hu Y, Tang LV. Gene therapy for polygenic or complex diseases. Biomark Res 2024; 12:99. [PMID: 39232780 PMCID: PMC11375922 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00618-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy utilizes nucleic acid drugs to treat diseases, encompassing gene supplementation, gene replacement, gene silencing, and gene editing. It represents a distinct therapeutic approach from traditional medications and introduces novel strategies for genetic disorders. Over the past two decades, significant advancements have been made in the field of gene therapy, leading to the approval of various gene therapy drugs. Gene therapy was initially employed for treating genetic diseases and cancers, particularly monogenic conditions classified as orphan diseases due to their low prevalence rates; however, polygenic or complex diseases exhibit higher incidence rates within populations. Extensive research on the etiology of polygenic diseases has unveiled new therapeutic targets that offer fresh opportunities for their treatment. Building upon the progress achieved in gene therapy for monogenic diseases and cancers, extending its application to polygenic or complex diseases would enable targeting a broader range of patient populations. This review aims to discuss the strategies of gene therapy, methods of gene editing (mainly CRISPR-CAS9), and carriers utilized in gene therapy, and highlight the applications of gene therapy in polygenic or complex diseases focused on applications that have either entered clinical stages or are currently undergoing clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Wu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapies of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Hu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapies of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.
| | - Liang V Tang
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapies of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Di X, Wang P, Li F, Han W, Ni L, Liu CW. Recombinant Human Hepatocyte Growth Factor Plasmids for Treating Patients with Chronic Limb Threatening Ischaemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2024:S1078-5884(24)00620-8. [PMID: 39019317 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2024.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recombinant human hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) plasmids are novel alternatives to salvage limbs in patients with chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI). A systematic review and meta-analysis of data was conducted to assess the therapeutic efficacy of HGF plasmids in patients with CLTI. DATA SOURCES Randomised controlled studies evaluating HGF plasmid efficacy in patients with CLTI were identified using MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. REVIEW METHODS Meta-analyses of the reported relative risk (RR) or mean difference (MD) were conducted. Subgroup analyses were performed to determine the efficacy of HGF plasmids in cohorts excluding Buerger's disease. Certainty of evidence for each outcome was assessed. RESULTS Seven studies (n = 655 participants) were included. Based on low certainty evidence, patients treated with HGF had a significantly higher complete ulcer healing rate (RR 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30 - 3.04; p = .002) than patients treated with placebo. HGF treatment was associated with reduced visual analogue scale (VAS) scores of pain severity (MD -1.56, 95% CI -2.12 - -1.00; p < .001) vs. placebo in patients with CLTI assessed at three month follow up (low certainty evidence); no significant differences were observed in major amputation (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.48 - 1.73; p = .77) (low certainty evidence) or all cause mortality rate (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.38 - 2.27; p = .87) (low certainty evidence) between patients treated with HGF and placebo. Low certainty evidence suggested no significant differences in change in ankle brachial index at six months (MD 0.00, 95% CI -0.09 - 0.09; p = 1.0) between patients treated with HGF and placebo. The complete ulcer healing rate and improved three month VAS scores of pain severity benefits persisted in subgroup analyses (low certainty evidence). CONCLUSION Low certainty evidence suggested that HGF treatment is associated with an increased complete ulcer healing rate and reduced ischaemic pain in patients with CLTI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Di
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fengshi Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Han
- Department of Statistics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Leng Ni
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Chang-Wei Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Perin E, Loveland L, Caporusso J, Dove C, Motley T, Sigal F, Vartivarian M, Oliva F, Armstrong DG. Gene therapy for diabetic foot ulcers: Interim analysis of a randomised, placebo-controlled phase 3 study of VM202 (ENGENSIS), a plasmid DNA expressing two isoforms of human hepatocyte growth factor. Int Wound J 2023; 20:3531-3539. [PMID: 37230802 PMCID: PMC10588355 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.14226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the status of a 7-month phase 3 study conducted to test the effect of intramuscular injections of VM202 (ENGENSIS), a plasmid DNA encoding human hepatocyte growth factor, into the calf muscles of chronic nonhealing diabetic foot ulcers with concomitant peripheral artery disease. The phase 3 study, originally aimed to recruit 300 subjects, was discontinued because of slow patient recruitment. An unprespecified interim analysis was performed for the 44 subjects enrolled to assess the status and determine the future direction. Statistical analyses were carried out for the Intent-to-Treat (ITT) population and separately for subjects with neuroischemic ulcers, using a t-test and Fisher's exact test. A logistic regression analysis was also conducted. VM202 was safe and potentially should have benefits. In the ITT population (N = 44), there was a positive trend toward closure in the VM202 group from 3 to 6 months but with no statistical significance. Levels of ulcer volume or area were found to be highly skewed between the placebo and VM202 groups. Forty subjects, excluding four outliers in both arms, showed significant wound-closing effects at month 6 (P = .0457). In 23 patients with neuroischemic ulcers, the percentage of subjects reaching complete ulcer closure was significantly higher in the VM202 group at months 3, 4, and 5 (P = .0391, .0391, and .0361). When two outliers were excluded, a significant difference was evident in months 3, 4, 5, and 6 (P = .03 for all points). A potentially clinically meaningful 0.15 increase in Ankle-Brachial Index was observed in the VM202 group at day 210 in the ITT population (P = .0776). Intramuscular injections of VM202 plasmid DNA to calf muscle may have promise in the treatment of chronic neuroischemic diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Given the safety profile and potential healing effects, continuing a larger DFU study is warranted with modifications of the current protocol and expansion of enrolling sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emerson Perin
- Director of the Center for Clinical ResearchTexas Heart InstituteHoustonTexasUSA
| | | | - Joseph Caporusso
- Complete Family Foot CareFuturo Clinical Trials, LLCMcAllenTexasUSA
| | - Cyaandi Dove
- Department of OrthopaedicsUT Health San AntonioSan AntonioTexasUSA
| | - Travis Motley
- Medical Director, PodiatryAcclaim Bone & Joint InstituteFort WorthTexasUSA
| | - Felix Sigal
- Podiatric MedicineFoot and Ankle ClinicLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | - David G Armstrong
- Department of SurgeryKeck School of Medicine of the University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kupczyńska D, Lubieniecki P, Antkiewicz M, Barć J, Frączkowska-Sioma K, Dawiskiba T, Dorobisz T, Małodobra-Mazur M, Baczyńska D, Pańczak K, Witkiewicz W, Janczak D, Skóra JP, Barć P. Complementary Gene Therapy after Revascularization with the Saphenous Vein in Diabetic Foot Syndrome. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1968. [PMID: 37895317 PMCID: PMC10606318 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is one of the most serious macroangiopathic complications of diabetes. The primary treatment option is revascularization, but complementary therapies are still being sought. The study group consisted of 18 patients diagnosed with ischemic ulcerative and necrotic lesions in DFS. Patients underwent revascularization procedures and, due to unsatisfactory healing of the lesions, were randomly allocated to two groups: a group in which bicistronic VEGF165/HGF plasmid was administered and a control group in which saline placebo was administered. Before gene therapy administration and after 7, 30, 90, and 180 days, color duplex ultrasonography (CDU) was performed, the ankle-brachial index (ABI) and transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) were measured, and DFS changes were described and documented photographically. In the gene therapy group, four out of eight patients (50%) healed their DFS lesions before 12 weeks. During this time, the ABI increased by an average of 0.25 and TcPO2 by 30.4 mmHg. In the control group, healing of the lesions by week 12 occurred in six out of nine patients (66.67%), and the ABI increased by an average of 0.14 and TcPO2 by 27.1 mmHg. One major amputation occurred in each group. Gene therapy may be an attractive option for complementary treatment in DFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Kupczyńska
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Paweł Lubieniecki
- Clinical Department of Diabetology and Internal Disease, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Antkiewicz
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Jan Barć
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Frączkowska-Sioma
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Tomasz Dawiskiba
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Tadeusz Dorobisz
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Małgorzata Małodobra-Mazur
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Division of Molecular Techniques, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Dagmara Baczyńska
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Konrad Pańczak
- Lecran Wound Care Center, Trawowa 63a, 54-614 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Wojciech Witkiewicz
- Research and Development Center, Regional Specialized Hospital in Wroclaw, Kamienskiego 73a, 51-124 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Janczak
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Jan Paweł Skóra
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Piotr Barć
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Spiliopoulos S, Festas G, Paraskevopoulos I, Mariappan M, Brountzos E. Overcoming ischemia in the diabetic foot: Minimally invasive treatment options. World J Diabetes 2021; 12:2011-2026. [PMID: 35047116 PMCID: PMC8696640 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v12.i12.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As the global burden of diabetes is rapidly increasing, the incidence of diabetic foot ulcers is continuously increasing as the mean age of the world population increases and the obesity epidemic advances. A significant percentage of diabetic foot ulcers are caused by mixed micro and macro-vascular dysfunction leading to impaired perfusion of foot tissue. Left untreated, chronic limb-threatening ischemia has a poor prognosis and is correlated with limb loss and increased mortality; prompt treatment is required. In this review, the diagnostic challenges in diabetic foot disease are discussed and available data on minimally invasive treatment options such as endovascular revascularization, stem cells, and gene therapy are examined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stavros Spiliopoulos
- Second Department of Radiology, Interventional Radiology Unit, Attikon University Hospital, Athens 12461, Greece
| | - Georgios Festas
- Second Department of Radiology, Interventional Radiology Unit, Attikon University Hospital, Athens 12461, Greece
| | - Ioannis Paraskevopoulos
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Interventional Radiology Unit, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Mariappan
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Interventional Radiology Unit, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, United Kingdom
| | - Elias Brountzos
- Second Department of Radiology, School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 12461, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Morishita R, Shimamura M, Takeya Y, Nakagami H, Chujo M, Ishihama T, Yamada E, Rakugi H. Combined Analysis of Clinical Data on HGF Gene Therapy to Treat Critical Limb Ischemia in Japan. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 20:25-35. [PMID: 32416690 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220666200516171447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this combined analysis of data from clinical trials in Japan, using naked plasmid DNA encoding hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), was to document the safety and efficacy of intramuscular HGF gene therapy in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). METHODS HGF gene transfer was performed in 22 patients with CLI in a single-center open trial at Osaka University; 39 patients in a randomized, placebo-controlled, multi-center phase III trial, 10 patients with Buerger's disease in a multi-center open trial; and 6 patients with CLI in a multi-center open trial using 2 or 3 intramuscular injections of naked HGF plasmid at 2 or 4 mg. Resting pain on a visual analogue scale (VAS) and wound healing as primary endpoints were evaluated at 12 weeks after the initial injection. Serious adverse events caused by gene transfer were detected in 7 out of 77 patients (9.09%). Only one patient experienced peripheral edema (1.30%), in contrast to those who had undergone treatment with VEGF. At 12 weeks after gene transfer, combined evaluation of VAS and ischemic ulcer size demonstrated a significant improvement in HGF gene therapy group as compared to the placebo group (P=0.020). RESULTS The long-term analysis revealed a sustained decrease in the size of ischemic ulcer in HGF gene therapy group. In addition, VAS score over 50 mm at baseline (total 27 patients) demonstrated a tendency (P=0.059), but not significant enough, to improve VAS score in HGF gene therapy as compared to the placebo group. CONCLUSION The findings indicated that intramuscular injection of naked HGF plasmid tended to improve the resting pain and significantly decreased the size of the ischemic ulcer in the patients with CLI who did not have any alternative therapy, such as endovascular treatment (EVT) or bypass graft surgery. An HGF gene therapy product, CollategeneTM, was recently launched with conditional and time-limited approval in Japan to treat ischemic ulcer in patients with CLI. Further clinical trials would provide new therapeutic options for patients with CLI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryuichi Morishita
- Department of Clinical Gene Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Munehisa Shimamura
- Department of Health Development and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasushi Takeya
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hironori Nakagami
- Department of Health Development and Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Hiromi Rakugi
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gu Y, Cui S, Liu C, Zhao J, Li M, Li Y, Yang X, Lv B, Li M, Zhao W, Guo W, Huang J, Huang W, Qiu Z, Zhao J, Yin P, Qin T, Zhu D, Sun W, Ren K, Lu Y, Cheng X, Du L, Xiao F, Zhang Q, Wu Z. pUDK-HGF Gene Therapy to Relieve CLI Rest Pain and Ulcer: A Phase II, Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:839-849. [PMID: 33726499 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This phase II clinical trial investigated the efficacy and safety of intramuscular injection of plasmid pUDK-HGF, which encodes the human hepatocyte growth factor gene in patients with critical limb ischemia. Resting pain patients (n = 119) and patients with leg ulcers (n = 121) were enrolled as two cohorts and randomized to receive pUDK-HGF treatment on days 0, 14, and 28. In the resting pain cohort, the proportion of patients with complete pain relief on day 180 after receiving pUDK-HGF injection, as the primary outcome, was significantly higher than that of the placebo group on the same day (p = 0.0148). More responders with >50% pain reduction were also observed in the pUDK-HGF groups than in the placebo groups (p = 0.0168). In the ulcer cohort of patients, pUDK-HGF treatment tended to be superior to the placebo in the percentage of patients with both complete ulcer healing and >50% ulcer healing. No significant differences in the incidence of adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs were observed among the groups. The mid-dose pUDK-HGF (6 mg) was the most efficacious, and is therefore an appropriate dose for use in a phase III clinical trial. This study was approved by the China Food and Drug Administration (2013L00637), China Clinical Trial Registry URL: www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn. Unique Identifier: 20130378.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongquan Gu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shijun Cui
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Changjian Liu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Nanjin Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jichun Zhao
- Vascular Surgery Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Li
- Vascular Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Li
- Vascular Surgery Department, Wuhan Union Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinglong Yang
- General Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bonan Lv
- General Surgery Department, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Mingzhang Li
- General Surgery Department, Baotou Central Hospital, Baotou, China
| | - Wenguang Zhao
- Vascular Surgery Department, The First Bethune Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Vascular Surgery Department, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Huang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wen Huang
- Vascular Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqin Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhenming Qiu
- General Surgery Department, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- General Surgery Department, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Yin
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Qin
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Zhu
- Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co. Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Sun
- Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co. Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Keyun Ren
- Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co. Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Yuxin Lu
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochen Cheng
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Li Du
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fengjun Xiao
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qinglin Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zuze Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Oxidative Stress and New Pathogenetic Mechanisms in Endothelial Dysfunction: Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9061995. [PMID: 32630452 PMCID: PMC7355625 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9061995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart and pathological circulatory conditions, are the world's leading cause of mortality and morbidity. Endothelial dysfunction involved in CVD pathogenesis is a trigger, or consequence, of oxidative stress and inflammation. Endothelial dysfunction is defined as a diminished production/availability of nitric oxide, with or without an imbalance between endothelium-derived contracting, and relaxing factors associated with a pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic status. Endothelial dysfunction-induced phenotypic changes include up-regulated expression of adhesion molecules and increased chemokine secretion, leukocyte adherence, cell permeability, low-density lipoprotein oxidation, platelet activation, and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration. Inflammation-induced oxidative stress results in an increased accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mainly derived from mitochondria. Excessive ROS production causes oxidation of macromolecules inducing cell apoptosis mediated by cytochrome-c release. Oxidation of mitochondrial cardiolipin loosens cytochrome-c binding, thus, favoring its cytosolic release and activation of the apoptotic cascade. Oxidative stress increases vascular permeability, promotes leukocyte adhesion, and induces alterations in endothelial signal transduction and redox-regulated transcription factors. Identification of new endothelial dysfunction-related oxidative stress markers represents a research goal for better prevention and therapy of CVD. New-generation therapeutic approaches based on carriers, gene therapy, cardiolipin stabilizer, and enzyme inhibitors have proved useful in clinical practice to counteract endothelial dysfunction. Experimental studies are in continuous development to discover new personalized treatments. Gene regulatory mechanisms, implicated in endothelial dysfunction, represent potential new targets for developing drugs able to prevent and counteract CVD-related endothelial dysfunction. Nevertheless, many challenges remain to overcome before these technologies and personalized therapeutic strategies can be used in CVD management.
Collapse
|
10
|
Gu Y, Cui S, Wang Q, Liu C, Jin B, Guo W, Liu C, Chu T, Shu C, Zhang F, Han C, Liu Y. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Study of Hepatocyte Growth Factor in the Treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia. Mol Ther 2019; 27:2158-2165. [PMID: 31805256 PMCID: PMC6904746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
NL003 is a plasmid engineered to simultaneously express two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor. This phase II study was performed to assess the clinical safety and efficacy of intramuscular injection of NL003 in critical limb ischemia (CLI) patients for 6 months. Two hundred patients (Rutherford scale 4-5) were randomly assigned: placebo (n = 50), low-dose NL003 (n = 50), middle-dose NL003 (n = 50), or high-dose NL003 (n = 50). The drug was administered in the affected limb of 197 patients on days 0, 14, and 28. No significant differences in the incidence of adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs were found among the groups. At 6 months, pain severity was significantly reduced in all NL003 groups, but not in the placebo group (p < 0.05). The proportion of patients with complete ulcer healing in the high-dose group was significantly higher than that of the placebo group (p = 0.0095). There were no statistically significant differences in transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2), ankle-brachial index (ABI), or toe-brachial index (TBI) value among the four groups throughout the study period. These results provide the first effective evidence of significant improvements in total healing of ulcers in treated legs, complete pain relief without analgesics, and safety for NL003 in patients with Rutherford stage 4-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongquan Gu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Shijun Cui
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Vascular Surgery Department, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changjian Liu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Bi Jin
- Vascular Surgery Department, Wuhan Union Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Vascular Surgery Department, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Changwei Liu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tongbin Chu
- Diabetic Foot Treatment Center, Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Chang Shu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Second Xiang Ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fuxian Zhang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Shi Ji Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chengquan Han
- R&D Center of Beijing Northland Biotech. Co., Ltd., China
| | - Yue Liu
- R&D Center of Beijing Northland Biotech. Co., Ltd., China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lee SH, Kim S, Lee N, Lee J, Yu SS, Kim JH, Kim S. Intrathecal delivery of recombinant AAV1 encoding hepatocyte growth factor improves motor functions and protects neuromuscular system in the nerve crush and SOD1-G93A transgenic mouse models. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2019; 7:96. [PMID: 31189468 PMCID: PMC6563368 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-019-0737-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neuromuscular disease resulting from motor neuron degeneration that causes muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually respiratory failure. We investigated whether recombinant adeno-associated virus encoding human hepatocyte growth factor (rAAV-HGF) could generate beneficial effects in two mouse models with neuromuscular problems when intrathecally delivered to the subarachnoid space. We chose AAV serotype 1 (rAAV1) based on the expression levels and distribution of HGF protein in the lumbar spinal cord (LSC). After a single intrathecal (IT) injection of rAAV1-HGF, the protein level of HGF in the LSC peaked on day 14 and thereafter gradually decreased over the next 14 weeks. rAAV1-HGF was initially tested in the mouse nerve crush model. IT injection of rAAV1-HGF improved mouse hindlimb strength and rotarod performance, while histological analyses showed that the length of regenerated axons was increased and the structure of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) was restored. rAAV1-HGF was also evaluated in the SOD1-G93A transgenic (TG) mouse model. Again, rAAV1-HGF not only improved motor performance but also increased the survival rate. Moreover, the number and diameter of spinal motor neurons (SMNs) were increased, and the shape of the NMJs restored. Data from in vitro motor cortical culture experiments indicated that treatment with recombinant HGF protein (rHGF) increased the axon length of corticospinal motor neurons (CSMNs). When cultures were treated with an ERK inhibitor, the effects of HGF on axon elongation, protein aggregation, and oxidative stress were suppressed, indicating that ERK phosphorylation played an important role(s). Taken together, our results suggested that HGF might play an important role(s) in delaying disease progression in the SOD1-G93A TG mouse model by reducing oxidative stress through the control of ERK phosphorylation.
Collapse
|
12
|
Barć P, Antkiewicz M, Śliwa B, Baczyńska D, Witkiewicz W, Skóra JP. Treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia by pIRES/VEGF165/HGF Administration. Ann Vasc Surg 2019; 60:346-354. [PMID: 31200059 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prognosis of peripheral artery disease (PAD), especially critical limb ischemia (CLI), is very poor despite the development of endovascular therapy and bypass surgery. Many patients result in having leg amputation. We decided to investigate the safety and efficacy of plasmid of internal ribosome entry site/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) 165/hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) gene therapy (GT) in patients suffered from CLI. METHODS Administration of plasmid of internal ribosome entry site/VEGF165/HGF was performed in 12 limbs of 12 patients with rest pain and ischemic ulcers due to CLI. Plasmid was injected into the muscles of the ischemic limbs. The levels of VEGF in serum and the ankle-brachial index (ABI) were measured before and after treatment. RESULTS Mean (±SD) plasma levels of VEGF increased nonsignificantly from 258 ± 81 pg/L to 489 ± 96 pg/L (P > 0.05) 2 weeks after therapy, and the ABI improved significantly from 0.27 ± 0.20 to 0.50 ± 0.22 (P < 0.001) 3 months after therapy. Ischemic ulcers healed in 9 limbs. Amputation was performed in 3 patients because of advanced necrosis and wound infection. However, the level of amputations was lowered below knee in these cases. Complications were limited to transient leg edema in 3 patients and fever in 2 patients. CONCLUSIONS Intramuscular administration of plasmid of internal ribosome entry site/VEGF165/HGF is safe, feasible, and effective for patients with critical leg ischemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Barć
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Antkiewicz
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Barbara Śliwa
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dagmara Baczyńska
- Molecular Techniques Unit, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Wojciech Witkiewicz
- Regional Specialized Hospital in Wroclaw, Research and Development Center, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jan Paweł Skóra
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gaspar D, Peixoto R, De Pieri A, Striegl B, Zeugolis DI, Raghunath M. Local pharmacological induction of angiogenesis: Drugs for cells and cells as drugs. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 146:126-154. [PMID: 31226398 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The past decades have seen significant advances in pro-angiogenic strategies based on delivery of molecules and cells for conditions such as coronary artery disease, critical limb ischemia and stroke. Currently, three major strategies are evolving. Firstly, various pharmacological agents (growth factors, interleukins, small molecules, DNA/RNA) are locally applied at the ischemic region. Secondly, preparations of living cells with considerable bandwidth of tissue origin, differentiation state and preconditioning are delivered locally, rarely systemically. Thirdly, based on the notion, that cellular effects can be attributed mostly to factors secreted in situ, the cellular secretome (conditioned media, exosomes) has come into the spotlight. We review these three strategies to achieve (neo)angiogenesis in ischemic tissue with focus on the angiogenic mechanisms they tackle, such as transcription cascades, specific signalling steps and cellular gases. We also include cancer-therapy relevant lymphangiogenesis, and shall seek to explain why there are often conflicting data between in vitro and in vivo. The lion's share of data encompassing all three approaches comes from experimental animal work and we shall highlight common technical obstacles in the delivery of therapeutic molecules, cells, and secretome. This plethora of preclinical data contrasts with a dearth of clinical studies. A lack of adequate delivery vehicles and standardised assessment of clinical outcomes might play a role here, as well as regulatory, IP, and manufacturing constraints of candidate compounds; in addition, completed clinical trials have yet to reveal a successful and efficacious strategy. As the biology of angiogenesis is understood well enough for clinical purposes, it will be a matter of time to achieve success for well-stratified patients, and most probably with a combination of compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Gaspar
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Rita Peixoto
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Andrea De Pieri
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Proxy Biomedical Ltd., Coilleach, Spiddal, Galway, Ireland
| | - Britta Striegl
- Competence Centre Tissue Engineering for Drug Development (TEDD), Centre for Cell Biology & Tissue Engineering, Institute for Chemistry and Biotechnology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Michael Raghunath
- Competence Centre Tissue Engineering for Drug Development (TEDD), Centre for Cell Biology & Tissue Engineering, Institute for Chemistry and Biotechnology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hepatocyte Growth Factor Regulates the miR-206-HDAC4 Cascade to Control Neurogenic Muscle Atrophy following Surgical Denervation in Mice. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 12:568-577. [PMID: 30195792 PMCID: PMC6077135 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) has been well characterized for its roles in the migration of muscle progenitors during embryogenesis and the differentiation of muscle stem cells, but its function in adult neurogenic muscle atrophic conditions is poorly understood. Here we investigated whether HGF/c-met signaling has any effects on muscle-atrophic conditions. It was found that HGF expression was upregulated in skeletal muscle tissue following surgical denervation and in hSOD1-G93A transgenic mice showing severe muscle loss. Pharmacological inhibition of the c-met receptor decreased the expression level of pri-miR-206, enhanced that of HDAC4 and atrogenes, and resulted in increased muscle atrophy. In C2C12 cells, HGF inhibited phosphorylation of Smad3 and relieved TGF-β-mediated suppression of miR-206 expression via JNK. When extra HGF was exogenously provided through intramuscular injection of plasmid DNA expressing HGF, the extent of muscle atrophy was reduced, and the levels of all affected biochemical markers were changed accordingly, including those of primary and mature miR-206, HDAC4, and various atrogenes. Taken together, our finding suggested that HGF might play an important role in regard to neurogenic muscle atrophy and that HGF might be used as a platform to develop therapeutic agents for neuromuscular disorders.
Collapse
|
15
|
Ko KR, Lee J, Lee D, Nho B, Kim S. Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) Promotes Peripheral Nerve Regeneration by Activating Repair Schwann Cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8316. [PMID: 29844434 PMCID: PMC5973939 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26704-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
During the peripheral nerve regeneration process, a variety of neurotrophic factors play roles in nerve repair by acting on neuronal or non-neuronal cells. In this report, we investigated the role(s) of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor, c-met, in peripheral nerve regeneration. When mice were subjected to sciatic nerve injury, the HGF protein level was highly increased at the injured and distal sites. The level of both total and phosphorylated c-met was also highly upregulated, but almost exclusively in Schwann cells (SCs) distal from the injury site. When mice were treated with a c-met inhibitor, PHA-665752, myelin thickness and axon regrowth were decreased indicating that re-myelination was hindered. HGF promoted the migration and proliferation of cultured SCs, and also induced the expression of various genes such as GDNF and LIF, presumably by activating ERK pathways. Furthermore, exogenous supply of HGF around the injury site, by intramuscular injection of a plasmid DNA expressing human HGF, enhanced the myelin thickness and axon diameter in injured nerves. Taken together, our results indicate that HGF and c-met play important roles in Schwann cell-mediated nerve repair, and also that HGF gene transfer may provide a useful tool for treating peripheral neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyeong Ryang Ko
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea.,Viro Med, Co., Ltd, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | | | | | - Boram Nho
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Sunyoung Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea. .,Viro Med, Co., Ltd, Seoul, 08826, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nho B, Lee J, Lee J, Ko KR, Lee SJ, Kim S. Effective control of neuropathic pain by transient expression of hepatocyte growth factor in a mouse chronic constriction injury model. FASEB J 2018; 32:5119-5131. [PMID: 29913557 PMCID: PMC6113864 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201800476r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a multifunctional protein that contains angiogenic and neurotrophic properties. In the current study, we investigated the analgesic effects of HGF by using a plasmid DNA that was designed to express 2 isoforms of human HGF—pCK-HGF-X7 (or VM202)—in a chronic constriction injury (CCI) –induced mouse neuropathic pain model. Intramuscular injection of pCK-HGF-X7 into proximal thigh muscle induced the expression of HGF in the muscle, sciatic nerve, and dorsal root ganglia (DRG). This gene transfer procedure significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia after CCI. Injury-induced expression of activating transcription factor 3, calcium channel subunit α2δ1, and CSF1 in the ipsilateral DRG neurons was markedly down-regulated in the pCK-HGF-X7–treated group, which suggested that HGF might exert its analgesic effects by inhibiting pain-mediating genes in the sensory neurons. In addition, suppressed CSF1 expression in DRG neurons by pCK-HGF-X7 treatment was accompanied by a noticeable suppression of the nerve injury–induced glial cell activation in the spinal cord dorsal horn. Taken together, our data show that pCK-HGF-X7 attenuates nerve injury–induced neuropathic pain by inhibiting pain-related factors in DRG neurons and subsequent spinal cord glial activation, which suggests its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of neuropathic pain.—Nho, B., Lee, J., Lee, J., Ko, K. R., Lee, S. J., Kim, S. Effective control of neuropathic pain by transient expression of hepatocyte growth factor in a mouse chronic constriction injury model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boram Nho
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Junghun Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.,ViroMed, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Junsub Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyeong Ryang Ko
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.,ViroMed, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Joong Lee
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sunyoung Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.,ViroMed, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wang LS, Wang H, Zhang QL, Yang ZJ, Kong FX, Wu CT. Hepatocyte Growth Factor Gene Therapy for Ischemic Diseases. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:413-423. [DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Sheng Wang
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Qing-Lin Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Jian Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Fan-Xuan Kong
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Chu-Tse Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
He Y, Mei L, Jin Y, Li XP, Jin C. Overexpression of Hepatocyte Growth Factor mRNA Induced by Gene Transfer Attenuates Neointimal Hyperplasia After Balloon Injury. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:816-827. [PMID: 29382231 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.173] [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
Hepatic growth factor (HGF) has been widely used in studies on arterial remodeling after injury, and results turn out to be inconsistent. The changes of endogenous HGF expression after injury also remain controversial. This study clarified the role of exogenous human HGF (hHGF) gene transfer in neointimal hyperplasia and investigated the associated alterations of endogenous HGF and c-Met expressions under endothelial denudation with or without hHGF gene transfer using a balloon-injured rabbit aorta model. Sixty-one rabbits were randomly divided into normal controls, endothelial injury, endothelial injury with hHGF, or the control vector gene transfer groups. On weeks 1, 2, 4, and 8 after injury, neointimal hyperplasia and endothelialization were evaluated by the ratio of neointimal area to medial area (N/M ratio), CD31-positive staining, α-smooth muscle actin, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase expressions using histological analysis, immunohistochemistry staining, or real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Endogenous rabbit HGF (rHGF) and c-Met expressions were detected with immunohistochemistry staining and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. It was found that expressions of endogeneous rHGF and c-Met in endothelial injury upregulated with peak levels on week 2 or week 4 after injury (p < 0.01). On week 1 after hHGF transfer, neointimal hyperplasia was significantly inhibited (p < 0.001), with decreased α-smooth muscle actin expression (p < 0.05) and improved endothelial cells regeneration and function (p < 0.01). More remarkable overexpression of endogenous rHGF and c-Met mRNAs were detected, and lowered positive staining of rHGF and c-Met was shown in the neointima (p < 0.05). These results demonstrated hHGF gene transfer induced further overexpression of endogenous rHGF and c-Met mRNAs but lowered immunoreactivities of rHGF and c-Met in the neointima, thus leading to significant attenuation of neointimal hyperplasia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu He
- 1 Department of Ultrasound, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Li Mei
- 2 Department of Ultrasound, the First Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Ying Jin
- 3 Department of Surgery, the First Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Li
- 1 Department of Ultrasound, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun, China
| | - Chunxiang Jin
- 1 Department of Ultrasound, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hu C, Lu Y, Chen X, Wu Z, Zhang Q. Gene transfer of a naked plasmid (pUDK-HGF) encoding human hepatocyte growth factor attenuates skin/muscle incision and retraction-induced chronic post-surgical pain in rats. Eur J Pain 2018; 22:961-972. [DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Hu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
- International Academy of Targeted Therapeutics and Innovation; Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences; China
| | - Y. Lu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
| | - X. Chen
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
| | - Z. Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering; Beijing University of Technology; China
| | - Q. Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hu C, Lu Y, Cheng X, Cui Y, Wu Z, Zhang Q. Gene therapy for neuropathic pain induced by spared nerve injury with naked plasmid encoding hepatocyte growth factor. J Gene Med 2017; 19. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chunsheng Hu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
- International Academy of Targeted Therapeutics and Innovation; Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences; Chongqing China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering; Beijing University of Technology; Beijing China
| | - Yuxin Lu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Xiaochen Cheng
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Yufang Cui
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Zuze Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering; Beijing University of Technology; Beijing China
| | - Qinglin Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fujita Y, Kawamoto A. Stem cell-based peripheral vascular regeneration. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 120:25-40. [PMID: 28912015 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic critical limb ischemia (CLI) represents an end-stage manifestation of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). CLI patients are at very high risk of amputation and cardiovascular complications, leading to severe morbidity and mortality. Because many patients with CLI are ineligible for conventional revascularization procedures, it is urgently needed to explore alternative strategies to improve blood supply in the ischemic tissue. Although researchers initially focused on gene/protein therapy using proangiogenic growth factors/cytokines, recent discovery of somatic stem/progenitor cells including bone marrow (BM)-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has drastically developed the field of therapeutic angiogenesis for CLI. Overall, early phase clinical trials demonstrated that stem/progenitor cell therapies may be safe, feasible and potentially effective. However, only few late-phase clinical trials have been conducted. This review provides an overview of the preclinical and clinical reports to demonstrate the usefulness and the current limitations of the cell-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuyuki Fujita
- Division of Vascular Regeneration, Unit of Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan; Translational Research Informatics Center, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Kawamoto
- Division of Vascular Regeneration, Unit of Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan; Translational Research Informatics Center, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Xiao Y, Ahadian S, Radisic M. Biochemical and Biophysical Cues in Matrix Design for Chronic and Diabetic Wound Treatment. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2016; 23:9-26. [PMID: 27405960 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2016.0200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Progress in biomaterial science and engineering and increasing knowledge in cell biology have enabled us to develop functional biomaterials providing appropriate biochemical and biophysical cues for tissue regeneration applications. Tissue regeneration is particularly important to treat chronic wounds of people with diabetes. Understanding and controlling the cellular microenvironment of the wound tissue are important to improve the wound healing process. In this study, we review different biochemical (e.g., growth factors, peptides, DNA, and RNA) and biophysical (e.g., topographical guidance, pressure, electrical stimulation, and pulsed electromagnetic field) cues providing a functional and instructive acellular matrix to heal diabetic chronic wounds. The biochemical and biophysical signals generally regulate cell-matrix interactions and cell behavior and function inducing the tissue regeneration for chronic wounds. Some technologies and devices have already been developed and used in the clinic employing biochemical and biophysical cues for wound healing applications. These technologies can be integrated with smart biomaterials to deliver therapeutic agents to the wound tissue in a precise and controllable manner. This review provides useful guidance in understanding molecular mechanisms and signals in the healing of diabetic chronic wounds and in designing instructive biomaterials to treat them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Xiao
- 1 Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,2 Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samad Ahadian
- 2 Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Milica Radisic
- 1 Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,2 Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto , Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Higuti E, Cecchi CR, Oliveira NAJ, Lima ER, Vieira DP, Aagaard L, Jensen TG, Jorge AAL, Bartolini P, Peroni CN. Partial correction of the dwarf phenotype by non-viral transfer of the growth hormone gene in mice: Treatment age is critical. Growth Horm IGF Res 2016; 26:1-7. [PMID: 26774398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-viral transfer of the growth hormone gene to different muscles of immunodeficient dwarf (lit/scid) mice is under study with the objective of improving phenotypic correction via this particular gene therapy approach. Plasmid DNA was administered into the exposed quadriceps or non-exposed tibialis cranialis muscle of lit/scid mice followed by electroporation, monitoring several growth parameters. In a 6-month bioassay, 50μg DNA were injected three times into the quadriceps muscle of 80-day old mice. A 50% weight increase, with a catch-up growth of 21%, together with a 16% increase for nose-to-tail and tail lengths (catch-up=19-21%) and a 24-28% increase for femur length (catch-up=53-60%), were obtained. mIGF1 serum levels were ~7-fold higher than the basal levels for untreated mice, but still ~2-fold lower than in non-dwarf scid mice. Since treatment age was found to be particularly important in a second bioassay utilizing 40-day old mice, these pubertal mice were compared in a third bioassay with adult (80-day old) mice, all treated twice with 50μg DNA injected into each tibialis cranialis muscle, via a less invasive approach. mIGF1 concentrations at the same level as co-aged scid mice were obtained 15days after administration in pubertal mice. Catch-up growth, based on femur length (77%), nose-to-tail (36%) and tail length (39%) increases was 40 to 95% higher than those obtained upon treating adult mice. These data pave the way for the development of more effective pre-clinical assays in pubertal dwarf mice for the treatment of GH deficiency via plasmid-DNA muscular administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliza Higuti
- Biotechnology Center, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Cláudia R Cecchi
- Biotechnology Center, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nélio A J Oliveira
- Biotechnology Center, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Eliana R Lima
- Biotechnology Center, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel P Vieira
- Biotechnology Center, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lars Aagaard
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas G Jensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Alexander A L Jorge
- Genetic-Endocrinology Unit (LIM25), Endocrinology Department, University of São Paulo School of Medicine (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paolo Bartolini
- Biotechnology Center, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Cibele N Peroni
- Biotechnology Center, Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN), Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cui S, Guo L, Li X, Gu Y, Fu J, Dong L, Song H, Chen X, Lu Y, Hu C, Xiao F, Zhu D, Wu Z, Zhang Q. Clinical Safety and Preliminary Efficacy of Plasmid pUDK-HGF Expressing Human Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) in Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2015; 50:494-501. [PMID: 26122834 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the most severe form of peripheral arterial disease and a major unmet public health care need. This phase I clinical study was performed to assess the safety and preliminary efficacy of naked plasmid DNA (pUDK-HGF) expressing human hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). DESIGN Twenty-one patients with CLI were enrolled and randomly divided into four dose groups (4-16 mg) to receive local injection of pUDK-HGF into ischemic calf and/or thigh muscles twice on days 1 and 15. Safety, including adverse events and physiological parameters, and preliminary efficacy, including pain severity score (VAS), ulcer size, transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2), and ankle brachial index (ABI), were evaluated throughout a 3 month follow up period. RESULTS All doses of pUDK-HGF were well tolerated by the patients. None of the adverse effects was considered to be related to pUDK-HGF injection. Two significant clinical results were observed after pUDK-HGF administration. The mean VAS value of all patients decreased from 4.52 at baseline to 0.30 (p < .01), and pain had disappeared in 14 out of 17 evaluable patients by day 91. Two of four ulcers had completely healed, with the other two patients having more than 25% ulcer size reduction in the long axis diameter. Of five patients with gangrene, one gangrenous wound had healed completely and two patients showed marked size reduction by day 91. The mean hemodynamic parameters (ABI, TcPO2) were also improved. CONCLUSION Intramuscular injection of pUDK-HGF is safe, and may provide symptomatic relief for CLI patients. A larger, randomized, double blinded phase II trial will provide more information on safety and efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Cui
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - L Guo
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - X Li
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Y Gu
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - J Fu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - L Dong
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - H Song
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - X Chen
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Y Lu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - C Hu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - F Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - D Zhu
- Humanwell Healthcare Group Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Z Wu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Q Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Cooke JP, Losordo DW. Modulating the vascular response to limb ischemia: angiogenic and cell therapies. Circ Res 2015; 116:1561-78. [PMID: 25908729 PMCID: PMC4869986 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.115.303565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The age-adjusted prevalence of peripheral arterial disease in the US population has been estimated to approach 12%. The clinical consequences of occlusive peripheral arterial disease include pain on walking (claudication), pain at rest, and loss of tissue integrity in the distal limbs; the latter may ultimately lead to amputation of a portion of the lower extremity. Surgical bypass techniques and percutaneous catheter-based interventions may successfully reperfuse the limbs of certain patients with peripheral arterial disease. In many patients, however, the anatomic extent and distribution of arterial occlusion is too severe to permit relief of pain and healing of ischemic ulcers. No effective medical therapy is available for the treatment of such patients, for many of whom amputation represents the only hope for alleviation of symptoms. The ultimate failure of medical treatment and procedural revascularization in significant numbers of patients has led to attempts to develop alternative therapies for ischemic disease. These strategies include administration of angiogenic cytokines, either as recombinant protein or as gene therapy, and more recently, to investigations of stem/progenitor cell therapy. The purpose of this review is to provide an outline of the preclinical basis for angiogenic and stem cell therapies, review the clinical research that has been done, summarize the lessons learned, identify gaps in knowledge, and suggest a course toward successfully addressing an unmet medical need in a large and growing patient population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John P Cooke
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, TX (J.P.C.); and NeoStem Inc, New York, NY (D.W.L.).
| | - Douglas W Losordo
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, TX (J.P.C.); and NeoStem Inc, New York, NY (D.W.L.).
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Charoenphol P, Bermudez H. Design and application of multifunctional DNA nanocarriers for therapeutic delivery. Acta Biomater 2014; 10:1683-91. [PMID: 23896566 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2013.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Revised: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The unique programmability of nucleic acids offers versatility and flexibility in the creation of self-assembled DNA nanostructures. To date, many three-dimensional DNA architectures of varying sizes and shapes have been precisely formed. Their biocompatibility, biodegradability and high intrinsic stability in physiological environments emphasize their emerging use as carriers for drug and gene delivery. Furthermore, DNA nanocarriers have been shown to enter cells efficiently and without the aid of transfection reagents. A key strength of DNA nanocarriers over other delivery systems is their modularity and their ability to control the spatial distribution of cargoes and ligands. Optimizing DNA nanocarrier properties to dictate their localization, uptake and intracellular trafficking is also possible. This review presents design considerations for DNA nanocarriers and examples of their use in the context of therapeutic delivery applications. The assembly of DNA nanocarriers and approaches for loading and releasing cargo are described. The stability and safety of DNA nanocarriers are also discussed, with particular attention to the in vivo physiological environment. Mechanisms of cellular uptake and intracellular trafficking are examined, and the paper concludes with strategies to enhance the delivery efficiency of DNA nanocarriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Charoenphol
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - H Bermudez
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
The application of gene therapy to human patients has grown tremendously in recent years. Study findings have allowed scientists to develop newer genomic approaches to managing patients with chronic diseases. Nurse practitioners must be prepared to collaborate with the medical community to provide patients support and essential education about gene therapy treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Smith
- Sarah E. Smith is a Clinical Nurse Educator at Lankenau Medical Center, Wynnewood, PA. Sara J. Reeder is an Associate Professor at Villanova University College of Nursing, Villanova, PA
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Critical limb ischaemia (CLI) is a severe form of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). CLI often causes disabling symptoms of pain and can lead to loss of the affected limb. It is also associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke and death from cardiovascular disease. The aims of management in patients with CLI are to relieve ischaemic pain, heal ulcers, prevent limb loss, improve function and quality of life and prolong survival. Here, current evidence regarding the medical management of CLI is reviewed. Cardiovascular risk factors should be assessed in all patients with CLI; smoking cessation and treatment of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and diabetes all reduce the mortality rate in those with PAD. Antiplatelet agents (either aspirin or clopidogrel) are recommended to reduce both the incidence of cardiovascular events and risk of arterial occlusion. By contrast, routine use of anticoagulation (either warfarin or heparin) is not recommended. Treatment of the limbs themselves is often more challenging. Prostanoids may have some efficacy for treating rest pain and for ulcer healing, and iloprost shows favourable results in reducing the risk of major amputations, but long-term follow-up data regarding disease progression are lacking. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of naftidrofuryl or cilostazol, and pentoxifylline is not beneficial. Furthermore, there is no evidence of proven benefit of hyperbaric oxygen. A number of angiogenic growth factors have been studied in Phase I studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). They appear to be safe, but efficacy results have been mixed. Treatment with stem cells also shows some potential from early trials, but further larger RCTs are needed to demonstrate clear benefit. Thrombolysis may be an alternative for patients who develop acute limb ischaemia and are unsuitable for surgical intervention. However, newer endovascular techniques are likely to have a greater role in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Lambert
- Division of Cardiovascular and Diabetes Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Phase 1/2 open-label dose-escalation study of plasmid DNA expressing two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor in patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Mol Ther 2013; 21:1279-86. [PMID: 23609019 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2013.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of intramuscular injections of plasmid DNA (VM202) expressing two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in subjects with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN). Twelve patients in three cohorts (4, 8, and 16 mg) received two sets of VM202 injections separated by two weeks. Safety and tolerability were evaluated and the visual analog scale (VAS), the short form McGill questionnaire (SF-MPQ), and the brief pain inventory for patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (BPI-DPN) measured pain level throughout 12 months after treatment. No serious adverse events (AEs) were observed. The mean VAS was reduced from baseline by 47.2% (P = 0.002) at 6 months and by 44.1% (P = 0.005) at 12 months after treatment. The VAS scores for the 4, 8, and 16 mg dose cohorts at 6 months follow-up decreased in a dose-responsive manner, by 21% (P = 0.971), 53% (P = 0.014), and 62% (P = 0.001), respectively. The results with the BPI-DPN and SF-MPQ showed patterns similar to the VAS scores. In conclusion, VM202 treatment appeared to be safe, well tolerated, and sufficient to provide long term symptomatic relief and improvement in the quality of life in patients with PDPN.
Collapse
|
30
|
Dahlmann M, Sack U, Herrmann P, Lemm M, Fichtner I, Schlag PM, Stein U. Systemic shRNA mediated knock down of S100A4 in colorectal cancer xenografted mice reduces metastasis formation. Oncotarget 2013; 3:783-97. [PMID: 22878175 PMCID: PMC3478456 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The metastasis-inducing protein S100A4 was found to be a prognostic indicator for the development of metachronous metastases. S100A4 expression levels correlate with the formation of human colorectal cancer metastases and shorter patients’ survival. Inhibition of S100A4 expression in patients might therefore result in decreased metastasis formation and prolonged survival. In the present study, we used shRNA expression plasmids to inhibit S100A4 expression in the colorectal cancer cell lines HCT116, SW620 and DLD-1. Cell lines with reduced S100A4 expression showed reduced cell migration and invasion in vitro. The knock-down of S100A4 expression also led to significantly diminished formation of liver metastases when intrasplenically transplanted in mice (P = 0.004). We then focused on the therapeutic potential of systemically applied shRNA expression plasmids acting on S100A4 via repeated hydrodynamics-based tail vein injection of plasmid DNA. Mice, intrasplenically transplanted with HCT116 cells and treated systemically with S100A4-shRNA plasmids, showed a decrease of S100A4 and MMP9 expression levels, resulting in significantly reduced liver metastases (P = 0.005). In summary, we show for the first time the intratumoral knock-down of S100A4 via systemic application of S100A4-shRNA plasmid DNA, which restricts metastasis formation in a xenografted mouse model of colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Dahlmann
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, joint cooperation between Charité, Medical Faculty and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Current World Literature. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2013; 7:116-28. [DOI: 10.1097/spc.0b013e32835e749d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
32
|
Kim JS, Hwang HY, Cho KR, Park EA, Lee W, Paeng JC, Lee DS, Kim HK, Sohn DW, Kim KB. Intramyocardial transfer of hepatocyte growth factor as an adjunct to CABG: phase I clinical study. Gene Ther 2012; 20:717-22. [PMID: 23151518 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2012.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2012] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 10/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this phase I clinical trial was to evaluate the safety, tolerability and potential efficacy of VM202, naked DNA expressing two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor, as an adjunct therapy to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). Nine patients were assigned to receive increasing doses (0.5 to 2.0 mg) of VM202 injected into the right coronary artery (RCA) territory following completion of CABG for the left coronary artery territory. Patients were evaluated for safety and tolerability, and changes in myocardial functions were monitored via echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and myocardial single photon emission computed tomography throughout 6-month follow-up period. No serious complication related to VM202 was observed throughout the 6-month follow-up period. Global myocardial functions (wall motion score index, P=0.0084; stress perfusion, P=0.0002) improved during the follow-up period. In the RCA region, there was an increase in the stress perfusion (baseline vs 3-month, P=0.024; baseline vs 6-month, P=0.024) and also in the wall thickness of the diastolic and systolic phases. Intramyocardial injection of VM202 can be safely used in IHD patients with the tolerable dose of 2.0 mg. In addition, VM202 might appear to have improved regional myocardial perfusion and wall thickness in the injected region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J S Kim
- Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi, Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Growth factors released from gelatin hydrogel microspheres increase new neurons in the adult mouse brain. Stem Cells Int 2012; 2012:915160. [PMID: 23093979 PMCID: PMC3474987 DOI: 10.1155/2012/915160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that new neurons are continuously generated by endogenous neural stem cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the adult mammalian brain. Some of these new neurons migrate to injured brain tissues and differentiate into mature neurons, suggesting that such new neurons may be able to replace neurons lost to degenerative disease or injury and improve or repair neurological deficits. Here, we tested whether delivering growth factors via gelatin hydrogel microspheres would support neurogenesis in the SVZ. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)-containing microspheres increased the number of new neurons in the SVZ. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-containing microspheres increased the number of new neurons migrating from the SVZ towards the injured striatum in a stroke model in mouse. These results suggest that the strategy of using gelatin hydrogel microspheres to achieve the sustained release of growth factors holds promise for the clinical regeneration of damaged brain tissues from endogenous neural stem cells in the adult SVZ.
Collapse
|
34
|
Davies MG. Critical limb ischemia: cell and molecular therapies for limb salvage. Methodist Debakey Cardiovasc J 2012; 8:20-7. [PMID: 23342184 PMCID: PMC3549646 DOI: 10.14797/mdcj-8-4-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a growing interest in developing new limb salvage therapies for patients with severe peripheral artery disease who have no alternative to amputation. Cell and gene therapy studies are showing promise in controlling pain and minor ulceration in patients with significant critical limb ischemia. Among cardiovascular cell and molecular therapy programs, The Methodist Hospital is one of the leading centers in both gene and cell therapy for critical limb ischemia. Randomized controlled trials continue to be performed, and these experimental therapies will move from research to pharmacy within the decade. In conjunction with aggressive medical and surgical management, these emergent therapies may help patients with critical limb ischemia avoid a major amputation and are one of the foundations of any advanced limb salvage program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark G Davies
- Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, The Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Makarevich P, Tsokolaeva Z, Shevelev A, Rybalkin I, Shevchenko E, Beloglazova I, Vlasik T, Tkachuk V, Parfyonova Y. Combined transfer of human VEGF165 and HGF genes renders potent angiogenic effect in ischemic skeletal muscle. PLoS One 2012; 7:e38776. [PMID: 22719942 PMCID: PMC3374822 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0038776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased interest in development of combined gene therapy emerges from results of recent clinical trials that indicate good safety yet unexpected low efficacy of "single-gene" administration. Multiple studies showed that vascular endothelial growth factor 165 aminoacid form (VEGF165) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) can be used for induction of angiogenesis in ischemic myocardium and skeletal muscle. Gene transfer system composed of a novel cytomegalovirus-based (CMV) plasmid vector and codon-optimized human VEGF165 and HGF genes combined with intramuscular low-voltage electroporation was developed and tested in vitro and in vivo. Studies in HEK293T cell culture, murine skeletal muscle explants and ELISA of tissue homogenates showed efficacy of constructed plasmids. Functional activity of angiogenic proteins secreted by HEK293T after transfection by induction of tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) culture. HUVEC cells were used for in vitro experiments to assay the putative signaling pathways to be responsible for combined administration effect one of which could be the ERK1/2 pathway. In vivo tests of VEGF165 and HGF genes co-transfer were conceived in mouse model of hind limb ischemia. Intramuscular administration of plasmid encoding either VEGF165 or HGF gene resulted in increased perfusion compared to empty vector administration. Mice injected with a mixture of two plasmids (VEGF165+HGF) showed significant increase in perfusion compared to single plasmid injection. These findings were supported by increased CD31+ capillary and SMA+ vessel density in animals that received combined VEGF165 and HGF gene therapy compared to single gene therapy. Results of the study suggest that co-transfer of VEGF and HGF genes renders a robust angiogenic effect in ischemic skeletal muscle and may present interest as a potential therapeutic combination for treatment of ischemic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Makarevich
- Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Russian Cardiology Research and Production Complex, Moscow, Russia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Madonna R, Rokosh G. Insights into gene therapy for critical limb ischemia: the devil is in the details. Vascul Pharmacol 2012; 57:10-4. [PMID: 22580542 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2012.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Revised: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/01/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) without potential for revascularization are currently without alternate therapies. Several gene therapy trials have tested angiogenesis factors, hepatic growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and basic fibroblast growth factor, in rescuing CLI patients from amputation and mortality, and for improved quality of life including decreased pain, improved healing, and blood flow. Trial results have been variable, with HGF gene therapy being the most successful. New studies examining each of these angiogenic factors provide insights that will be useful for the design of effective therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
|