1
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Fillion AJ, Bricco AR, Lee HD, Korenchan D, Farrar CT, Gilad AA. Development of a synthetic biosensor for chemical exchange MRI utilizing in silico optimized peptides. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2023; 36:e5007. [PMID: 37469121 PMCID: PMC11075521 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.5007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI has been identified as a novel alternative to classical diagnostic imaging. Over the last several decades, many studies have been conducted to determine possible CEST agents, such as endogenously expressed compounds or proteins, that can be utilized to produce contrast with minimally invasive procedures and reduced or non-existent levels of toxicity. In recent years there has been an increased interest in the generation of genetically engineered CEST contrast agents, typically based on existing proteins with CEST contrast or modified to produce CEST contrast. We have developed an in silico method for the evolution of peptide sequences to optimize CEST contrast and showed that these peptides could be combined to create de novo biosensors for CEST MRI. A single protein, superCESTide, was designed to be 198 amino acids. SuperCESTide was expressed in E. coli and purified with size exclusion chromatography. The magnetic transfer ratio asymmetry generated by superCESTide was comparable to levels seen in previous CEST reporters, such as protamine sulfate (salmon protamine) and human protamine. These data show that novel peptides with sequences optimized in silico for CEST contrast that utilize a more comprehensive range of amino acids can still produce contrast when assembled into protein units expressed in complex living environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J. Fillion
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Alexander R. Bricco
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Harvey D. Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - David Korenchan
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Christian T. Farrar
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Assaf A. Gilad
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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2
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Gilad AA, Bar-Shir A, Bricco AR, Mohanta Z, McMahon MT. Protein and peptide engineering for chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging in the age of synthetic biology. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2023; 36:e4712. [PMID: 35150021 PMCID: PMC10642350 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4712] [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: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
At the beginning of the millennium, the first chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) contrast agents were bio-organic molecules. However, later, metal-based CEST agents (paraCEST agents) took center stage. This did not last too long as paraCEST agents showed limited translational potential. By contrast, the CEST field gradually became dominated by metal-free CEST agents. One branch of research stemming from the original work by van Zijl and colleagues is the development of CEST agents based on polypeptides. Indeed, in the last 2 decades, tremendous progress has been achieved in this field. This includes the design of novel peptides as biosensors, genetically encoded recombinant as well as synthetic reporters. This was a result of extensive characterization and elucidation of the theoretical requirements for rational designing and engineering of such agents. Here, we provide an extensive overview of the evolution of more precise protein-based CEST agents, review the rationalization of enzyme-substrate pairs as CEST contrast enhancers, discuss the theoretical considerations to improve peptide selectivity, specificity and enhance CEST contrast. Moreover, we discuss the strong influence of synthetic biology on the development of the next generation of protein-based CEST contrast agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assaf A. Gilad
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Amnon Bar-Shir
- Department of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Alexander R. Bricco
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Zinia Mohanta
- Division of MR Research, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael T. McMahon
- Division of MR Research, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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3
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Bricco A, Miralavy I, Bo S, Perlman O, Korenchan DE, Farrar CT, McMahon MT, Banzhaf W, Gilad AA. A Genetic Programming Approach to Engineering MRI Reporter Genes. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:1154-1163. [PMID: 36947694 PMCID: PMC10128068 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Here we develop a mechanism of protein optimization using a computational approach known as "genetic programming". We developed an algorithm called Protein Optimization Engineering Tool (POET). Starting from a small library of literature values, the use of this tool allowed us to develop proteins that produce four times more MRI contrast than what was previously state-of-the-art. Interestingly, many of the peptides produced using POET were dramatically different with respect to their sequence and chemical environment than existing CEST producing peptides, and challenge prior understandings of how those peptides function. While existing algorithms for protein engineering rely on divergent evolution, POET relies on convergent evolution and consequently allows discovery of peptides with completely different sequences that perform the same function with as good or even better efficiency. Thus, this novel approach can be expanded beyond developing imaging agents and can be used widely in protein engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander
R. Bricco
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State
University, East Lansing, Michigan 48823, United States
| | - Iliya Miralavy
- Department
of Computer Science & Engineering, Michigan
State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48823, United States
| | - Shaowei Bo
- The
Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences,
Division of MR Research, Johns Hopkins University
School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Or Perlman
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Sagol
School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Athinoula
A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical
School, Boston, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - David E. Korenchan
- Athinoula
A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical
School, Boston, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Christian T. Farrar
- Athinoula
A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical
School, Boston, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Michael T. McMahon
- The
Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences,
Division of MR Research, Johns Hopkins University
School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Wolfgang Banzhaf
- Department
of Computer Science & Engineering, Michigan
State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48823, United States
| | - Assaf A. Gilad
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48823, United States
- Department
of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48823, United States
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4
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Fillion AJ, Bricco AR, Lee HD, Korenchan D, Farrar CT, Gilad AA. Development of a Synthetic Biosensor for Chemical Exchange MRI Utilizing In Silico Optimized Peptides. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.08.531737. [PMID: 37016672 PMCID: PMC10071792 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.08.531737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been identified as a novel alternative to classical diagnostic imaging. Over the last several decades, many studies have been conducted to determine possible CEST agents, such as endogenously expressed compounds or proteins, that can be utilized to produce contrast with minimally invasive procedures and reduced or non-existent levels of toxicity. In recent years there has been an increased interest in the generation of genetically engineered CEST contrast agents, typically based on existing proteins with CEST contrast or modified to produce CEST contrast. We have developed an in-silico method for the evolution of peptide sequences to optimize CEST contrast and showed that these peptides could be combined to create de novo biosensors for CEST MRI. A single protein, superCESTide 2.0, was designed to be 198 amino acids. SuperCESTide 2.0 was expressed in E. coli and purified with size-exclusion chromatography. The magnetic transfer ratio asymmetry (MTR asym ) generated by superCESTide 2.0 was comparable to levels seen in previous CEST reporters, such as protamine sulfate (salmon protamine, SP), Poly-L-Lysine (PLL), and human protamine (hPRM1). This data shows that novel peptides with sequences optimized in silico for CEST contrast that utilizes a more comprehensive range of amino acids can still produce contrast when assembled into protein units expressed in complex living environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J. Fillion
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Alexander R. Bricco
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Harvey D. Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - David Korenchan
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Christian T. Farrar
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Assaf A. Gilad
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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5
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Chmelyuk NS, Oda VV, Gabashvili AN, Abakumov MA. Encapsulins: Structure, Properties, and Biotechnological Applications. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2023; 88:35-49. [PMID: 37068871 PMCID: PMC9937530 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923010042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
In 1994 a new class of prokaryotic compartments was discovered, collectively called "encapsulins" or "nanocompartments". Encapsulin shell protomer proteins self-assemble to form icosahedral structures of various diameters (24-42 nm). Inside of nanocompartments shells, one or several cargo proteins, diverse in their functions, can be encapsulated. In addition, non-native cargo proteins can be loaded into nanocompartments, and shell surfaces can be modified via various compounds, which makes it possible to create targeted drug delivery systems, labels for optical and MRI imaging, and to use encapsulins as bioreactors. This review describes a number of strategies of encapsulins application in various fields of science, including biomedicine and nanobiotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelly S Chmelyuk
- National University of Science and Technology "MISIS", Moscow, 119049, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 117977, Russia
| | - Vera V Oda
- National University of Science and Technology "MISIS", Moscow, 119049, Russia
| | - Anna N Gabashvili
- National University of Science and Technology "MISIS", Moscow, 119049, Russia
| | - Maxim A Abakumov
- National University of Science and Technology "MISIS", Moscow, 119049, Russia.
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 117977, Russia
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Yun J, Baldini M, Chowdhury R, Mukherjee A. Designing Protein-Based Probes for Sensing Biological Analytes with Magnetic Resonance Imaging. ANALYSIS & SENSING 2022; 2:e202200019. [PMID: 37409177 PMCID: PMC10321474 DOI: 10.1002/anse.202200019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Genetically encoded sensors provide unique advantages for monitoring biological analytes with molecular and cellular-level specificity. While sensors derived from fluorescent proteins represent staple tools in biological imaging, these probes are limited to optically accessible preparations owing to physical curbs on light penetration. In contrast to optical methods, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to noninvasively look inside intact organisms at any arbitrary depth and over large fields of view. These capabilities have spurred the development of innovative methods to connect MRI readouts with biological targets using protein-based probes that are in principle genetically encodable. Here, we highlight the state-of-the-art in MRI-based biomolecular sensors, focusing on their physical mechanisms, quantitative characteristics, and biological applications. We also describe how innovations in reporter gene technology are creating new opportunities to engineer MRI sensors that are sensitive to dilute biological targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Yun
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Michelle Baldini
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Rochishnu Chowdhury
- Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Arnab Mukherjee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Biomolecular Science and Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Center for BioEngineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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7
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Abstract
Molecular imaging is used to improve the disease diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring of treatment in living subjects. Numerous molecular targets have been developed for various cellular and molecular processes in genetic, metabolic, proteomic, and cellular biologic level. Molecular imaging modalities such as Optical Imaging, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), and Computed Tomography (CT) can be used to visualize anatomic, genetic, biochemical, and physiologic changes in vivo. For in vivo cell imaging, certain cells such as cancer cells, immune cells, stem cells could be labeled by direct and indirect labeling methods to monitor cell migration, cell activity, and cell effects in cell-based therapy. In case of cancer, it could be used to investigate biological processes such as cancer metastasis and to analyze the drug treatment process. In addition, transplanted stem cells and immune cells in cell-based therapy could be visualized and tracked to confirm the fate, activity, and function of cells. In conventional molecular imaging, cells can be monitored in vivo in bulk non-invasively with optical imaging, MRI, PET, and SPECT imaging. However, single cell imaging in vivo has been a great challenge due to an extremely high sensitive detection of single cell. Recently, there has been great attention for in vivo single cell imaging due to the development of single cell study. In vivo single imaging could analyze the survival or death, movement direction, and characteristics of a single cell in live subjects. In this article, we reviewed basic principle of in vivo molecular imaging and introduced recent studies for in vivo single cell imaging based on the concept of in vivo molecular imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongje Hong
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Siyeon Rhee
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kyung Oh Jung
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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8
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Zheng N, Li M, Wu Y, Kaewborisuth C, Li Z, Gui Z, Wu J, Cai A, Lin K, Su KP, Xiang H, Tian X, Manyande A, Xu F, Wang J. A novel technology for in vivo detection of cell type-specific neural connection with AQP1-encoding rAAV2-retro vector and metal-free MRI. Neuroimage 2022; 258:119402. [PMID: 35732245 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A mammalian brain contains numerous neurons with distinct cell types for complex neural circuits. Virus-based circuit tracing tools are powerful in tracking the interaction among the different brain regions. However, detecting brain-wide neural networks in vivo remains challenging since most viral tracing systems rely on postmortem optical imaging. We developed a novel approach that enables in vivo detection of brain-wide neural connections based on metal-free magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) with retrograde ability, the rAAV2-retro, encoding the human water channel aquaporin 1 (AQP1) MRI reporter gene was generated to label neural connections. The mouse was micro-injected with the virus at the Caudate Putamen (CPU) region and subjected to detection with Diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI). The prominent structure of the CPU-connected network was clearly defined. In combination with a Cre-loxP system, rAAV2-retro expressing Cre-dependent AQP1 provides a CPU-connected network of specific type neurons. Here, we established a sensitive, metal-free MRI-based strategy for in vivo detection of cell type-specific neural connections in the whole brain, which could visualize the dynamic changes of neural networks in rodents and potentially in non-human primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Mei Li
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Challika Kaewborisuth
- Virology and Cell Technology Research Team, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhu Gui
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jinfeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Aoling Cai
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Kangguang Lin
- Department of Affective Disorders, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kuan-Pin Su
- Department of Psychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan, China
| | - Hongbing Xiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xuebi Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Anne Manyande
- School of Human and Social Sciences, University of West London, Middlesex, TW8 9GA, UK
| | - Fuqiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Wuhan 430071, China; The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences-Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Wuhan 430071, China; Institute of Neuroscience and Brain Diseases, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China.
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9
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Concilio SC, Russell SJ, Peng KW. A brief review of reporter gene imaging in oncolytic virotherapy and gene therapy. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2021; 21:98-109. [PMID: 33981826 PMCID: PMC8065251 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Reporter gene imaging (RGI) can accelerate development timelines for gene and viral therapies by facilitating rapid and noninvasive in vivo studies to determine the biodistribution, magnitude, and durability of viral gene expression and/or virus infection. Functional molecular imaging systems used for this purpose can be divided broadly into deep-tissue and optical modalities. Deep-tissue modalities, which can be used in animals of any size as well as in human subjects, encompass single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), and functional/molecular magnetic resonance imaging (f/mMRI). Optical modalities encompass fluorescence, bioluminescence, Cerenkov luminescence, and photoacoustic imaging and are suitable only for small animal imaging. Here we discuss the mechanisms of action and relative merits of currently available reporter gene systems, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of deep tissue versus optical imaging systems and the hardware/reagents that are used for data capture and processing. In light of recent technological advances, falling costs of imaging instruments, better availability of novel radioactive and optical tracers, and a growing realization that RGI can give invaluable insights across the entire in vivo translational spectrum, the approach is becoming increasingly essential to facilitate the competitive development of new virus- and gene-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kah-Whye Peng
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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10
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Jacobs AH, Schelhaas S, Viel T, Waerzeggers Y, Winkeler A, Zinnhardt B, Gelovani J. Imaging of Gene and Cell-Based Therapies: Basis and Clinical Trials. Mol Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816386-3.00060-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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11
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Liu G, van Zijl PC. CEST (Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer) MR Molecular Imaging. Mol Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816386-3.00012-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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12
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Helfer BM, Bulte JW. Cell Surveillance Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Mol Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816386-3.00042-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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13
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Perlman O, Ito H, Gilad AA, McMahon MT, Chiocca EA, Nakashima H, Farrar CT. Redesigned reporter gene for improved proton exchange-based molecular MRI contrast. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20664. [PMID: 33244130 PMCID: PMC7692519 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77576-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Reporter gene imaging allows for non-invasive monitoring of molecular processes in living cells, providing insights on the mechanisms underlying pathology and therapy. A lysine-rich protein (LRP) chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI reporter gene has previously been developed and used to image tumor cells, cardiac viral gene transfer, and oncolytic virotherapy. However, the highly repetitive nature of the LRP reporter gene sequence leads to DNA recombination events and the expression of a range of truncated LRP protein fragments, thereby greatly limiting the CEST sensitivity. Here we report the use of a redesigned LRP reporter (rdLRP), aimed to provide excellent stability and CEST sensitivity. The rdLRP contains no DNA repeats or GC rich regions and 30% less positively charged amino-acids. RT-PCR of cell lysates transfected with rdLRP demonstrated a stable reporter gene with a single distinct band corresponding to full-length DNA. A distinct increase in CEST-MRI contrast was obtained in cell lysates of rdLRP transfected cells and in in vivo LRP expressing mouse brain tumors ([Formula: see text], n = 10).
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Affiliation(s)
- Or Perlman
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 149 13th Street, Suite 2301, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Hirotaka Ito
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Assaf A Gilad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- The Institute of Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Michael T McMahon
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of MR Research, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - E Antonio Chiocca
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hiroshi Nakashima
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christian T Farrar
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 149 13th Street, Suite 2301, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA.
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14
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Baek SE, Ul-Haq A, Kim DH, Choi HW, Kim MJ, Choi HJ, Kim H. Human Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptide 1B3 Applied as an MRI-Based Reporter Gene. Korean J Radiol 2020; 21:726-735. [PMID: 32410411 PMCID: PMC7231618 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2019.0903] [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: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Recent innovations in biology are boosting gene and cell therapy, but monitoring the response to these treatments is difficult. The purpose of this study was to find an MRI-reporter gene that can be used to monitor gene or cell therapy and that can be delivered without a viral vector, as viral vector delivery methods can result in long-term complications. Materials and Methods CMV promoter-human organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B3 (CMV-hOATP1B3) cDNA or CMV-blank DNA (control) was transfected into HEK293 cells using Lipofectamine. OATP1B3 expression was confirmed by western blotting and confocal microscopy. In vitro cell phantoms were made using transfected HEK293 cells cultured in various concentrations of gadoxetic acid for 24 hours, and images of the phantoms were made with a 9.4T micro-MRI. In vivo xenograft tumors were made by implanting HEK293 cells transfected with CMV-hOATP1B3 (n = 4) or CMV-blank (n = 4) in 8-week-old male nude mice, and MRI was performed before and after intravenous injection of gadoxetic acid (1.2 µL/g). Results Western blot and confocal microscopy after immunofluorescence staining revealed that only CMV-hOATP1B3-transfected HEK293 cells produced abundant OATP1B3, which localized at the cell membrane. OATP1B3 expression levels remained high through the 25th subculture cycle, but decreased substantially by the 50th subculture cycle. MRI of cell phantoms showed that only the CMV-hOATP1B3-transfected cells produced a significant contrast enhancement effect. In vivo MRI of xenograft tumors revealed that only CMV-hOATP1B3-transfected HEK293 tumors demonstrated a T1 contrast effect, which lasted for at least 5 hours. Conclusion The human endogenous OATP1B3 gene can be non-virally delivered into cells to induce transient OATP1B3 expression, leading to gadoxetic acid-mediated enhancement on MRI. These results indicate that hOATP1B3 can serve as an MRI-reporter gene while minimizing the risk of long-term complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Ee Baek
- Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Asad Ul-Haq
- Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dae Hee Kim
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Myeong Jin Kim
- Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Jin Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Honsoul Kim
- Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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15
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Gabashvili AN, Chmelyuk NS, Efremova MV, Malinovskaya JA, Semkina AS, Abakumov MA. Encapsulins-Bacterial Protein Nanocompartments: Structure, Properties, and Application. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10060966. [PMID: 32604934 PMCID: PMC7355545 DOI: 10.3390/biom10060966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, a new class of prokaryotic compartments, collectively called encapsulins or protein nanocompartments, has been discovered. The shell proteins of these structures self-organize to form icosahedral compartments with a diameter of 25-42 nm, while one or more cargo proteins with various functions can be encapsulated in the nanocompartment. Non-native cargo proteins can be loaded into nanocompartments and the surface of the shells can be further functionalized, which allows for developing targeted drug delivery systems or using encapsulins as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. Since the genes encoding encapsulins can be integrated into the cell genome, encapsulins are attractive for investigation in various scientific fields, including biomedicine and nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna N. Gabashvili
- Laboratory “Biomedical Nanomaterials”, National University of Science and Technology “MISiS”, Leninskiy Prospect, 4, 119049 Moscow, Russia; (A.N.G.); (N.S.C.)
- Department of Medical Nanobiotechnoilogy, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ostrovityanova st, 1, 117997 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Nelly S. Chmelyuk
- Laboratory “Biomedical Nanomaterials”, National University of Science and Technology “MISiS”, Leninskiy Prospect, 4, 119049 Moscow, Russia; (A.N.G.); (N.S.C.)
| | - Maria V. Efremova
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany;
- Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging and Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | | | - Alevtina S. Semkina
- Department of Medical Nanobiotechnoilogy, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ostrovityanova st, 1, 117997 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Maxim A. Abakumov
- Laboratory “Biomedical Nanomaterials”, National University of Science and Technology “MISiS”, Leninskiy Prospect, 4, 119049 Moscow, Russia; (A.N.G.); (N.S.C.)
- Department of Medical Nanobiotechnoilogy, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ostrovityanova st, 1, 117997 Moscow, Russia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-903-586-4777
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16
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Hill AM, Salmond GPC. Microbial gas vesicles as nanotechnology tools: exploiting intracellular organelles for translational utility in biotechnology, medicine and the environment. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2020; 166:501-509. [PMID: 32324529 PMCID: PMC7376271 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.000912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A range of bacteria and archaea produce gas vesicles as a means to facilitate flotation. These gas vesicles have been purified from a number of species and their applications in biotechnology and medicine are reviewed here. Halobacterium sp. NRC-1 gas vesicles have been engineered to display antigens from eukaryotic, bacterial and viral pathogens. The ability of these recombinant nanoparticles to generate an immune response has been quantified both in vitro and in vivo. These gas vesicles, along with those purified from Anabaena flos-aquae and Bacillus megaterium, have been developed as an acoustic reporter system. This system utilizes the ability of gas vesicles to retain gas within a stable, rigid structure to produce contrast upon exposure to ultrasound. The susceptibility of gas vesicles to collapse when exposed to excess pressure has also been proposed as a biocontrol mechanism to disperse cyanobacterial blooms, providing an environmental function for these structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M. Hill
- Department of Biochemistry, Tennis Court Road, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, UK
| | - George P. C. Salmond
- Department of Biochemistry, Tennis Court Road, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, UK
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17
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Liu T, Zhu Y, Zhao R, Wei X, Xin X. Visualization of exosomes from mesenchymal stem cells in vivo by magnetic resonance imaging. Magn Reson Imaging 2020; 68:75-82. [PMID: 32027941 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE We develop a method of imaging exosomes in vivo according to the vital role of exosomes in intercellular communication. This study aims to design a new label method that allows the visualization of labeled exosomes with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS We designed a fusion protein consisting of two parts, namely, ferritin heavy chain (FTH1) and a truncated lactadherin. FTH1 is used as an MRI reporter. Lactadherin is a trans-membrane protein. The lactadherin protein are mostly located on the outer surface of exosomes. We replaced the outer membrane part of lactadherin with FTH1, infected mesenchymal stem cells with lentivirus carrying the fusion protein, and isolated exosomes from the labeled cells by ultracentrifugation. Labeled exosomes were validated by transmission electron microscopy images, Western blot, nanosight particle tracking, and visualized in vitro and in vivo by MRI. RESULTS FTH1 expression would suppress mesenchymal stem cell proliferation, whereas the characterization of labeled exosomes remains comparable with unlabeled exosomes. MR imaging shows that exosomes labeled with FTH1 can be visualized in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION This innovative reporter-imaging approach to track and visualize exosomes with MRI can be utilized as a tool for the study of the role of exosomes under different conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Yurong Zhu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruiting Zhao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinhua Wei
- Department of Radiology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510180, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuegang Xin
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong, China; School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China.
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18
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Abstract
Regenerative medicine with the use of stem cells has appeared as a potential therapeutic alternative for many disease states. Despite initial enthusiasm, there has been relatively slow transition to clinical trials. In large part, numerous questions remain regarding the viability, biology and efficacy of transplanted stem cells in the living subject. The critical issues highlighted the importance of developing tools to assess these questions. Advances in molecular biology and imaging have allowed the successful non-invasive monitoring of transplanted stem cells in the living subject. Over the years these methodologies have been updated to assess not only the viability but also the biology of transplanted stem cells. In this review, different imaging strategies to study the viability and biology of transplanted stem cells are presented. Use of these strategies will be critical as the different regenerative therapies are being tested for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fakhar Abbas
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Joseph C. Wu
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sanjiv Sam Gambhir
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bio-Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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19
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Roose BW, Zemerov SD, Wang Y, Kasimova MA, Carnevale V, Dmochowski IJ. A Structural Basis for 129 Xe Hyper-CEST Signal in TEM-1 β-Lactamase. Chemphyschem 2018; 20:260-267. [PMID: 30151973 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.201800624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Genetically encoded (GE) contrast agents detectable by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enable non-invasive visualization of gene expression and cell proliferation at virtually unlimited penetration depths. Using hyperpolarized 129 Xe in combination with chemical exchange saturation transfer, an MR contrast approach known as hyper-CEST, enables ultrasensitive protein detection and biomolecular imaging. GE MRI contrast agents developed to date include nanoscale proteinaceous gas vesicles as well as the monomeric bacterial proteins TEM-1 β-lactamase (bla) and maltose binding protein (MBP). To improve understanding of hyper-CEST NMR with proteins, structural and computational studies were performed to further characterize the Xe-bla interaction. X-ray crystallography validated the location of a high-occupancy Xe binding site predicted by MD simulations, and mutagenesis experiments confirmed this Xe site as the origin of the observed CEST contrast. Structural studies and MD simulations with representative bla mutants offered additional insight regarding the relationship between local protein structure and CEST contrast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin W Roose
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 S 34th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Serge D Zemerov
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 S 34th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Yanfei Wang
- Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Marina A Kasimova
- Science for Life Laboratory Department of Theoretical Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vincenzo Carnevale
- Institute for Computational Molecular Science College of Science and Technology, Temple University, 1925 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
| | - Ivan J Dmochowski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 S 34th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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20
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Abstract
Immunotherapies include various approaches, ranging from stimulating effector mechanisms to counteracting inhibitory and suppressive mechanisms, and creating a forum for discussing the most effective means of advancing these therapies through imaging is the focus of the newly formed Imaging in Cellular and Immune Therapies (ICIT) interest group within the World Molecular Imaging Society. Efforts are being made in the identification and validation of predictive biomarkers for a number of immunotherapies. Without predictive biomarkers, a considerable number of patients may receive treatments that have no chance of offering a benefit. This will reflect poorly on the field of immunotherapy and will yield false hopes in patients while at the same time contributing to significant cost to the healthcare system. This review summarizes the main strategies in cancer immune and cell-based therapies and discusses recent advances in imaging strategies aimed to improve cancer immunotherapy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Ponomarev
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Pharmacology and Chemistry Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Ave Z-2063, Box 501, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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21
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Stem Cell Tracing Through MR Molecular Imaging. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2018; 15:249-261. [PMID: 30603551 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-017-0112-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy opens a new window in medicine to overcome several diseases that remain incurable. It appears such diseases as cardiovascular disorders, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, urinary system diseases, cartilage lesions and diabetes are curable with stem cell transplantation. However, some questions related to stem cell therapy have remained unanswered. Stem cell imaging allows approval of appropriated strategies such as selection of the type and dose of stem cell, and also mode of cell delivery before being tested in clinical trials. MRI as a non-invasive imaging modality provides proper conditions for this aim. So far, different contrast agents such as superparamagnetic or paramagnetic nanoparticles, ultrasmall superparamagnetic nanoparticles, fluorine, gadolinium and some types of reporter genes have been used for imaging of stem cells. The core subject of these studies is to investigate the survival and differentiation of stem cells, contrast agent's toxicity and long term following of transplanted cells. The promising results of in vivo and some clinical trial studies may raise hope for clinical stem cells imaging with MRI.
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22
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Mukherjee A, Davis HC, Ramesh P, Lu GJ, Shapiro MG. Biomolecular MRI reporters: Evolution of new mechanisms. PROGRESS IN NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY 2017; 102-103:32-42. [PMID: 29157492 PMCID: PMC5726449 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnmrs.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful technique for observing the function of specific cells and molecules inside living organisms. However, compared to optical microscopy, in which fluorescent protein reporters are available to visualize hundreds of cellular functions ranging from gene expression and chemical signaling to biomechanics, to date relatively few such reporters are available for MRI. Efforts to develop MRI-detectable biomolecules have mainly focused on proteins transporting paramagnetic metals for T1 and T2 relaxation enhancement or containing large numbers of exchangeable protons for chemical exchange saturation transfer. While these pioneering developments established several key uses of biomolecular MRI, such as imaging of gene expression and functional biosensing, they also revealed that low molecular sensitivity poses a major challenge for broader adoption in biology and medicine. Recently, new classes of biomolecular reporters have been developed based on alternative contrast mechanisms, including enhancement of spin diffusivity, interactions with hyperpolarized nuclei, and modulation of blood flow. These novel reporters promise to improve sensitivity and enable new forms of multiplexed and functional imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnab Mukherjee
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Hunter C Davis
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Pradeep Ramesh
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - George J Lu
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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23
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Lu CY, Ji JS, Zhu XL, Tang PF, Zhang Q, Zhang NN, Wang ZH, Wang XJ, Chen WQ, Hu JB, Du YZ, Yu RS. T2-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Hepatic Tumor Guided by SPIO-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers and Ferritin Reporter Genes. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2017; 9:35548-35561. [PMID: 28944659 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b09879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, there is a high demand for supersensitive contrast agents for the early diagnostics of hepatocarcinoma. It has been recognized that accurate imaging information is able to be achieved by constructing hepatic tumor specific targeting probes, though it still faces challenges. Here, a AGKGTPSLETTP peptide (A54)-functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO)-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (A54-SNLC), which can be specifically uptaken by hepatoma carcinoma cell (Bel-7402) and exhibited ultralow imaging signal intensity with varied Fe concentration on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), was first prepared as an effective gene carrier. Then, an endogenous ferritin reporter gene for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with tumor-specific promoter (AFP-promoter) was designed, which can also exhibit a decrease in signal intensity on T2WI. At last, using protamine as a cationic mediator, novel ternary nanoparticle of A54-SNLC/protamine/DNA (A54-SNPD) as an active dual-target T2-weighted MRI contrast agent for imaging hepatic tumor was achieved. Owing to the synergistic effect of A54-SNLC and AFP-promoted DNA targeting with Bel-7402 cells, T2 imaging intensity values of hepatic tumors were successfully decreased via the T2 contrast enhancement of ternary nanoparticles. It is emphasized that the novel A54-SNPD ternary nanoparticle as active dual-target T2-weighted MRI contrast agent were able to greatly increase the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of hepatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Ying Lu
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310009, China
- Department of Radiology, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University , Lishui 323000, China
| | - Jian-Song Ji
- Department of Radiology, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University , Lishui 323000, China
| | - Xiu-Liang Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Pei-Feng Tang
- Department of Paper and Bioprocesss Engineering, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry , New York 13210, United States
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Nan-Nan Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University , Lishui 323000, China
| | - Zu-Hua Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guiyang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Guiyang 550002, China
| | - Xiao-Juan Wang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wei-Qian Chen
- Department of Radiology, Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University , Lishui 323000, China
| | - Jing-Bo Hu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yong-Zhong Du
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ri-Sheng Yu
- Department of Radiology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310009, China
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Advances in Monitoring Cell-Based Therapies with Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18010198. [PMID: 28106829 PMCID: PMC5297829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-based therapies are currently being developed for applications in both regenerative medicine and in oncology. Preclinical, translational, and clinical research on cell-based therapies will benefit tremendously from novel imaging approaches that enable the effective monitoring of the delivery, survival, migration, biodistribution, and integration of transplanted cells. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers several advantages over other imaging modalities for elucidating the fate of transplanted cells both preclinically and clinically. These advantages include the ability to image transplanted cells longitudinally at high spatial resolution without exposure to ionizing radiation, and the possibility to co-register anatomical structures with molecular processes and functional changes. However, since cellular MRI is still in its infancy, it currently faces a number of challenges, which provide avenues for future research and development. In this review, we describe the basic principle of cell-tracking with MRI; explain the different approaches currently used to monitor cell-based therapies; describe currently available MRI contrast generation mechanisms and strategies for monitoring transplanted cells; discuss some of the challenges in tracking transplanted cells; and suggest future research directions.
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25
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Jasmin, de Souza GT, Louzada RA, Rosado-de-Castro PH, Mendez-Otero R, Campos de Carvalho AC. Tracking stem cells with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles: perspectives and considerations. Int J Nanomedicine 2017; 12:779-793. [PMID: 28182122 PMCID: PMC5279820 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s126530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have been used for diagnoses in biomedical applications, due to their unique properties and their apparent safety for humans. In general, SPIONs do not seem to produce cell damage, although their long-term in vivo effects continue to be investigated. The possibility of efficiently labeling cells with these magnetic nanoparticles has stimulated their use to noninvasively track cells by magnetic resonance imaging after transplantation. SPIONs are attracting increasing attention and are one of the preferred methods for cell labeling and tracking in preclinical and clinical studies. For clinical protocol approval of magnetic-labeled cell tracking, it is essential to expand our knowledge of the time course of SPIONs after cell incorporation and transplantation. This review focuses on the recent advances in tracking SPION-labeled stem cells, analyzing the possibilities and limitations of their use, not only focusing on myocardial infarction but also discussing other models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin
- NUMPEX-Bio, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Duque de Caxias, RJ
- Correspondence: Jasmin, Estrada de Xerém, 27, NUMPEX-Bio – UFRJ, Xerém, Duque de Caxias, RJ, 25245-390, Brazil, Tel +55 21 2679 1018, Email
| | - Gustavo Torres de Souza
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Juiz de Fora, MG
- Laboratory of Genetics, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Ruy Andrade Louzada
- Institute Gustave-Roussy of Oncology, Paris-Sud University, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Rosalia Mendez-Otero
- Institute Carlos Chagas Filho of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Lee CW, Choi SI, Lee SJ, Oh YT, Park G, Park NY, Yoon KA, Kim S, Kim D, Kim YH, Suh JS. The Effectiveness of Ferritin as a Contrast Agent for Cell Tracking MRI in Mouse Cancer Models. Yonsei Med J 2017; 58:51-58. [PMID: 27873495 PMCID: PMC5122652 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2017.58.1.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 06/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of ferritin as a contrast agent and a potential reporter gene for tracking tumor cells or macrophages in mouse cancer models. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adenoviral human ferritin heavy chain (Ad-hFTH) was administrated to orthotopic glioma models and subcutaneous colon cancer mouse models using U87MG and HCT116 cells, respectively. Brain MR images were acquired before and daily for up to 6 days after the intracranial injection of Ad-hFTH. In the HCT116 tumor model, MR examinations were performed before and at 6, 24, and 48 h after intratumoral injection of Ad-hFTH, as well as before and every two days after intravenous injection of ferritin-labeled macrophages. The contrast effect of ferritin in vitro was measured by MR imaging of cell pellets. MRI examinations using a 7T MR scanner comprised a T1-weighted (T1w) spin-echo sequence, T2-weighted (T2w) relaxation enhancement sequence, and T2*-weighted (T2*w) fast low angle shot sequence. RESULTS Cell pellet imaging of Ad-hFTH in vitro showed a strong negatively enhanced contrast in T2w and T2*w images, presenting with darker signal intensity in high concentrations of Fe. T2w images of glioma and subcutaneous HCT116 tumor models showed a dark signal intensity around or within the Ad-hFTH tumor, which was distinct with time and apparent in T2*w images. After injection of ferritin-labeled macrophages, negative contrast enhancement was identified within the tumor. CONCLUSION Ferritin could be a good candidate as an endogenous MR contrast agent and a potential reporter gene that is capable of maintaining cell labeling stability and cellular safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Wha Lee
- Department of Medicine, The Graduate School of Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Sun Il Choi
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Jin Lee
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
- Department of System Cancer Science, Graduate School of Cancer Science & Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Young Taek Oh
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Gunwoo Park
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Na Yeon Park
- Department of System Cancer Science, Graduate School of Cancer Science & Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Kyoung Ah Yoon
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sunshin Kim
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Daehong Kim
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea.
| | - Yun Hee Kim
- Research Institute & Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
- Department of System Cancer Science, Graduate School of Cancer Science & Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea.
| | - Jin Suck Suh
- Department of Medicine, The Graduate School of Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
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Non-invasive imaging using reporter genes altering cellular water permeability. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13891. [PMID: 28008959 PMCID: PMC5196229 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive imaging of gene expression in live, optically opaque animals is important for multiple applications, including monitoring of genetic circuits and tracking of cell-based therapeutics. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could enable such monitoring with high spatiotemporal resolution. However, existing MRI reporter genes based on metalloproteins or chemical exchange probes are limited by their reliance on metals or relatively low sensitivity. Here we introduce a new class of MRI reporters based on the human water channel aquaporin 1. We show that aquaporin overexpression produces contrast in diffusion-weighted MRI by increasing tissue water diffusivity without affecting viability. Low aquaporin levels or mixed populations comprising as few as 10% aquaporin-expressing cells are sufficient to produce MRI contrast. We characterize this new contrast mechanism through experiments and simulations, and demonstrate its utility in vivo by imaging gene expression in tumours. Our results establish an alternative class of sensitive, metal-free reporter genes for non-invasive imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging combined with molecular reporters can visualise cellular functions in intact organisms. Here Mukherjee et al. present a cellular imaging approach based on intracellular changes in water diffusion using human aquaporin 1 gene as a genetically encoded reporter for MRI.
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Qin X, Hu X, Wu C, Cai M, Li Z, Zhang L, Lin L, Huang W, Zhu K. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Carrying a Multimodality Reporter Gene for Fluorescence, Bioluminescence, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging In Vitro and In Vivo. Acad Radiol 2016; 23:1422-1430. [PMID: 27641103 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2016.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES The study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of imaging or tracking hepatocellular carcinoma cells by modifying these cells to carry a multimodality reporter gene, enabling fluorescence, bioluminescence, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in vitro and in vivo. MATERIALS AND METHODS HepG2 cells were labeled with the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)/luciferase2/ferritin-the multimodality reporter gene (labeled HepG2 cells). The labeled and unlabeled HepG2 cells were cultured in vitro and then injected subcutaneously into mice as a hepatoma model in vivo. The expressions of EGFP, luciferase2, and ferritin in HepG2 cell suspensions and hepatoma model were investigated using fluorescence, bioluminescence, and MRI. RESULTS Individual HepG2 cells expressing EGFP were identified under blue laser excitation. The linear coefficient between the optical signal intensity of luciferase2 and the number of labeled cells was 0.993. MRI was used to distinguish the T2* signal of 2 × 107 cells/mL between the labeled (6.67 ± 1.88 ms) and unlabeled cells (10.66 ± 2.22 ms) (P = 0.034). In vivo, individual HepG2 cells expressing EGFP in frozen sections were observed. Labeled cells expressing luciferase2 have been detected since the second day after injection, and the bioluminescence increased with the tumor size. The T2* signal was significantly different between the labeled (6.04 ± 1.60 ms) and unlabeled cells (17.06 ± 2.17 ms) (P <0.001). CONCLUSIONS A multimodality reporter gene consisting of EGFP, luciferase2, and ferritin was successfully integrated into the HepG2 cell genome via a lentiviral vector and was highly expressed in the daughter cells. These cells could be detected by fluorescence, bioluminescence, and MRI in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Qin
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 250 East Changgang Road, Guangzhou 510260, Guangdong Province, China; Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiaojun Hu
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chun Wu
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China; Interventional Radiology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Mingyue Cai
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China; Interventional Radiology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhengran Li
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China; Interventional Radiology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lina Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Liteng Lin
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China; Interventional Radiology Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Wensou Huang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 250 East Changgang Road, Guangzhou 510260, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kangshun Zhu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 250 East Changgang Road, Guangzhou 510260, Guangdong Province, China.
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Abstract
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Molecular imaging holds considerable promise for elucidating biological
processes in normal physiology as well as disease states, by determining
the location and relative concentration of specific molecules of interest.
Proton-based magnetic resonance imaging (1H MRI) is nonionizing
and provides good spatial resolution for clinical imaging but lacks
sensitivity for imaging low-abundance (i.e., submicromolar) molecular
markers of disease or environments with low proton densities. To address
these limitations, hyperpolarized (hp) 129Xe NMR spectroscopy
and MRI have emerged as attractive complementary methodologies. Hyperpolarized
xenon is nontoxic and can be readily delivered to patients via inhalation
or injection, and improved xenon hyperpolarization technology makes
it feasible to image the lungs and brain for clinical applications. In order to target hp 129Xe to biomolecular targets
of interest, the concept of “xenon biosensing” was first
proposed by a Berkeley team in 2001. The development of xenon biosensors
has since focused on modifying organic host molecules (e.g., cryptophanes)
via diverse conjugation chemistries and has brought about numerous
sensing applications including the detection of peptides, proteins,
oligonucleotides, metal ions, chemical modifications, and enzyme activity.
Moreover, the large (∼300 ppm) chemical shift window for hp 129Xe bound to host molecules in water makes possible the simultaneous
identification of multiple species in solution, that is, multiplexing.
Beyond hyperpolarization, a 106-fold signal enhancement
can be achieved through a technique known as hyperpolarized 129Xe chemical exchange saturation transfer (hyper-CEST), which shows
great potential to meet the sensitivity requirement in many applications. This Account highlights an expanded palette of hyper-CEST biosensors,
which now includes cryptophane and cucurbit[6]uril (CB[6]) small-molecule
hosts, as well as genetically encoded gas vesicles and single proteins.
In 2015, we reported picomolar detection of commercially available
CB[6] via hyper-CEST. Inspired by the versatile host–guest
chemistry of CB[6], our lab and others developed “turn-on”
strategies for CB[6]-hyper-CEST biosensing, demonstrating detection
of protein analytes in complex media and specific chemical events.
CB[6] is starting to be employed for in vivo imaging
applications. We also recently determined that TEM-1 β-lactamase
can function as a single-protein reporter for hyper-CEST and observed
useful saturation contrast for β-lactamase expressed in bacterial
and mammalian cells. These newly developed small-molecule and genetically
encoded xenon biosensors offer significant potential to extend the
scope of hp 129Xe toward molecular MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 South
34th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Ivan J. Dmochowski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 South
34th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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MRI Reporter Genes for Noninvasive Molecular Imaging. Molecules 2016; 21:molecules21050580. [PMID: 27213309 PMCID: PMC6273230 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21050580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most important imaging technologies used in clinical diagnosis. Reporter genes for MRI can be applied to accurately track the delivery of cell in cell therapy, evaluate the therapy effect of gene delivery, and monitor tissue/cell-specific microenvironments. Commonly used reporter genes for MRI usually include genes encoding the enzyme (e.g., tyrosinase and β-galactosidase), the receptor on the cells (e.g., transferrin receptor), and endogenous reporter genes (e.g., ferritin reporter gene). However, low sensitivity limits the application of MRI and reporter gene-based multimodal imaging strategies are common including optical imaging and radionuclide imaging. These can significantly improve diagnostic efficiency and accelerate the development of new therapies.
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Rossi M, Massai L, Diamanti D, Fiengo P, De Rosa A, Magrini R, Magnoni L, Chellini S, Coniglio S, Diodato E, Pilli E, Caradonna NP, Sardone G, Monti M, Roggeri R, Lionetti V, Recchia F, Tunici P, Valensin S, Scali C, Pollio G, Porcari V. Multimodal molecular imaging system for pathway-specific reporter gene expression. Eur J Pharm Sci 2016; 86:136-42. [PMID: 26987608 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2016.03.006] [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] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical imaging modalities represent an essential tool to develop a modern and translational biomedical research. To date, Optical Imaging (OI) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are used principally in separate studies for molecular imaging studies. We decided to combine OI and MRI together through the development of a lentiviral vector to monitor the Wnt pathway response to Lithium Chloride (LiCl) treatment. The construct was stably infected in glioblastoma cells and, after intracranial transplantation in mice, serial MRI and OI imaging sessions were performed to detect human ferritin heavy chain protein (hFTH) and firefly luciferase enzyme (FLuc) respectively. The system allowed also ex vivo analysis using a constitutive fluorescence protein expression. In mice, LiCl administration has shown significantly increment of luminescence signal and a lower signal of T2 values (P<0.05), recorded noninvasively with OI and a 7 Tesla MRI scanner. This study indicates that OI and MRI can be performed in a single in vivo experiment, providing an in vivo proof-of-concept for drug discovery projects in preclinical phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rossi
- Siena Biotech Medicine Research Centre, Siena, Italy.
| | - Luisa Massai
- Siena Biotech Medicine Research Centre, Siena, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Sara Chellini
- Siena Biotech Medicine Research Centre, Siena, Italy
| | | | | | - Elena Pilli
- Siena Biotech Medicine Research Centre, Siena, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Vincenzo Lionetti
- Laboratory of Medical Science, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabio Recchia
- Laboratory of Medical Science, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Carla Scali
- Siena Biotech Medicine Research Centre, Siena, Italy
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Yang Y, Gong MF, Yang H, Zhang S, Wang GX, Su TS, Wen L, Zhang D. MR molecular imaging of tumours using ferritin heavy chain reporter gene expression mediated by the hTERT promoter. Eur Radiol 2016; 26:4089-4097. [PMID: 26960542 PMCID: PMC5052315 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-016-4259-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Using the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) promoter and the modified ferritin heavy chain (Fth) reporter gene, reporter gene expression for MRI was examined in telomerase positive and negative tumour cells and xenografts. Methods Activity of the reporter gene expression vector Lenti-hTERT-Fth1-3FLAG-Puro was compared to constitutive CMV-driven expression and to the untransfected parental control in five tumour cell lines: A549, SKOV3, 293T, U2OS and HPDLF. In vitro, transfected cells were evaluated for FLAG-tagged protein expression, iron accumulation and transverse relaxation. In vivo, tumours transduced by lentiviral vector injection were imaged using T2*WI. Changes in tumour signal intensity were validated by histology. Results Only telomerase positive tumour cells expressed FLAG-tagged Fth and displayed an increase in R2* above the parental control, with a corresponding change in T2*WI. In addition, only telomerase positive tumours, transduced by injection of the reporter gene expression construct, exhibited a change in signal intensity on T2*WI. Tumour histology verified the expression of FLAG-tagged Fth and iron accumulation in telomerase positive tissue. Conclusion Reporter gene expression for MRI, using the Fth reporter and the hTERT promoter, may be a useful strategy for the non-invasive diagnosis of many types of cancer. Key points • Modified heavy chain of ferritin can serve as an MR reporter gene • hTERT promoter can direct the expression of reporter gene in cancer cells • MR reporter imaging mediated by hTERT promoter can be used for cancer diagnosis
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yang
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of ChengDu Medical College, ChengDu, 610500, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Fu Gong
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Song Zhang
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Xian Wang
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong-Sheng Su
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Wen
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Radiology, XinQiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, ChongQing, 400037, People's Republic of China.
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Choi Y, Huh J, Woo DC, Kim KW. Use of gadoxetate disodium for functional MRI based on its unique molecular mechanism. Br J Radiol 2015; 89:20150666. [PMID: 26693795 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20150666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gadolinium ethoxybenzyl dimeglumine (gadoxetate) is a recently developed hepatocyte-specific MRI contrast medium. Gadoxetate demonstrates unique pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, because its uptake in hepatocytes occurs via the organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) transporter expressed at the sinusoidal membrane, and its biliary excretion via the multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRPs) at the canalicular membrane. Based on these characteristics, gadoxetate-enhanced MRI can provide functional information on hepatobiliary diseases, including liver function estimation, biliary drainage evaluation and characterization of hepatocarcinogenesis. In addition, understanding its mode of action can provide an opportunity to use gadoxetate for cellular and molecular imaging. Radiologists and imaging scientists should be familiar with the basic mechanism of gadoxetate and OATP/MRP transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- YoonSeok Choi
- 1 Bioimaging Center, Asan Life Science Institution, Asan Medical Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jimi Huh
- 1 Bioimaging Center, Asan Life Science Institution, Asan Medical Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,2 Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Centre, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Cheol Woo
- 1 Bioimaging Center, Asan Life Science Institution, Asan Medical Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,2 Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Centre, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Won Kim
- 1 Bioimaging Center, Asan Life Science Institution, Asan Medical Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,2 Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Centre, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Mahajan A, Goh V, Basu S, Vaish R, Weeks AJ, Thakur MH, Cook GJ. Bench to bedside molecular functional imaging in translational cancer medicine: to image or to imagine? Clin Radiol 2015; 70:1060-82. [PMID: 26187890 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2015.06.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Revised: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Ongoing research on malignant and normal cell biology has substantially enhanced the understanding of the biology of cancer and carcinogenesis. This has led to the development of methods to image the evolution of cancer, target specific biological molecules, and study the anti-tumour effects of novel therapeutic agents. At the same time, there has been a paradigm shift in the field of oncological imaging from purely structural or functional imaging to combined multimodal structure-function approaches that enable the assessment of malignancy from all aspects (including molecular and functional level) in a single examination. The evolving molecular functional imaging using specific molecular targets (especially with combined positron-emission tomography [PET] computed tomography [CT] using 2- [(18)F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose [FDG] and other novel PET tracers) has great potential in translational research, giving specific quantitative information with regard to tumour activity, and has been of pivotal importance in diagnoses and therapy tailoring. Furthermore, molecular functional imaging has taken a key place in the present era of translational cancer research, producing an important tool to study and evolve newer receptor-targeted therapies, gene therapies, and in cancer stem cell research, which could form the basis to translate these agents into clinical practice, popularly termed "theranostics". Targeted molecular imaging needs to be developed in close association with biotechnology, information technology, and basic translational scientists for its best utility. This article reviews the current role of molecular functional imaging as one of the main pillars of translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mahajan
- Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, UK; Department of Radiodiagnosis, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, 400012, India.
| | - V Goh
- Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, UK
| | - S Basu
- Radiation Medicine Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Tata Memorial Hospital Annexe, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - R Vaish
- Department of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - A J Weeks
- Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, UK
| | - M H Thakur
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - G J Cook
- Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, UK; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Guy's and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
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Bocan TM, Panchal RG, Bavari S. Applications of in vivo imaging in the evaluation of the pathophysiology of viral and bacterial infections and in development of countermeasures to BSL3/4 pathogens. Mol Imaging Biol 2015; 17:4-17. [PMID: 25008802 PMCID: PMC4544652 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-014-0759-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
While preclinical and clinical imaging have been applied to drug discovery/development and characterization of disease pathology, few examples exist where imaging has been used to evaluate infectious agents or countermeasures to biosafety level (BSL)3/4 threat agents. Viruses engineered with reporter constructs, i.e., enzymes and receptors, which are amenable to detection by positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission tomography (SPECT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been used to evaluate the biodistribution of viruses containing specific therapeutic or gene transfer payloads. Bioluminescence and nuclear approaches involving engineered reporters, direct labeling of bacteria with radiotracers, or tracking bacteria through their constitutively expressed thymidine kinase have been utilized to characterize viral and bacterial pathogens post-infection. Most PET, SPECT, CT, or MRI approaches have focused on evaluating host responses to the pathogens such as inflammation, brain neurochemistry, and structural changes and on assessing the biodistribution of radiolabeled drugs. Imaging has the potential when applied preclinically to the development of countermeasures against BSL3/4 threat agents to address the following: (1) presence, biodistribution, and time course of infection in the presence or absence of drug; (2) binding of the therapeutic to the target; and (3) expression of a pharmacologic effect either related to drug mechanism, efficacy, or safety. Preclinical imaging could potentially provide real-time dynamic tools to characterize the pathogen and animal model and for developing countermeasures under the U.S. FDA Animal Rule provision with high confidence of success and clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Bocan
- Molecular and Translational Sciences, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), 1425 Porter Street, Ft. Detrick, MD, 21702, USA,
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Lost signature: progress and failures in in vivo tracking of implanted stem cells. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2015; 99:9907-22. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-015-6965-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Patrick PS, Kettunen MI, Tee SS, Rodrigues TB, Serrao E, Timm KN, McGuire S, Brindle KM. Detection of transgene expression using hyperpolarized 13C urea and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Magn Reson Med 2015; 73:1401-6. [PMID: 24733406 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Revised: 03/01/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the potential of a gene reporter system, based on a urea transporter (UTB) and hyperpolarized [(13) C]urea. METHODS Mice were implanted subcutaneously with either unmodified control cells or otherwise identical cells expressing UTB. After injection of hyperpolarized [(13) C]urea, a spin echo sequence was used to measure urea concentration, T1 , and diffusion in control and UTB-expressing tissue. RESULTS The apparent diffusion coefficient of hyperpolarized urea was 21% lower in tissue expressing UTB, in comparison with control tissue (P < 0.05, 1-tailed t-test, n = 6 in each group). No difference in water apparent diffusion coefficient or cellularity between these tissues was found, indicating that they were otherwise similar in composition. CONCLUSION Expression of UTB, by mediating cell uptake of urea, lowers the apparent diffusion coefficient of hyperpolarized (13) C urea in tissue and thus the transporter has the potential to be used as a magnetic resonance-based gene reporter in vivo. Magn Reson Med 73:1401-1406, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Stephen Patrick
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge, UK; Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Srivastava AK, Kadayakkara DK, Bar-Shir A, Gilad AA, McMahon MT, Bulte JWM. Advances in using MRI probes and sensors for in vivo cell tracking as applied to regenerative medicine. Dis Model Mech 2015; 8:323-36. [PMID: 26035841 PMCID: PMC4381332 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.018499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of molecular and cellular imaging allows molecules and cells to be visualized in vivo non-invasively. It has uses not only as a research tool but in clinical settings as well, for example in monitoring cell-based regenerative therapies, in which cells are transplanted to replace degenerating or damaged tissues, or to restore a physiological function. The success of such cell-based therapies depends on several critical issues, including the route and accuracy of cell transplantation, the fate of cells after transplantation, and the interaction of engrafted cells with the host microenvironment. To assess these issues, it is necessary to monitor transplanted cells non-invasively in real-time. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a tool uniquely suited to this task, given its ability to image deep inside tissue with high temporal resolution and sensitivity. Extraordinary efforts have recently been made to improve cellular MRI as applied to regenerative medicine, by developing more advanced contrast agents for use as probes and sensors. These advances enable the non-invasive monitoring of cell fate and, more recently, that of the different cellular functions of living cells, such as their enzymatic activity and gene expression, as well as their time point of cell death. We present here a review of recent advancements in the development of these probes and sensors, and of their functioning, applications and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit K Srivastava
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of MR Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Cellular Imaging Section and Vascular Biology Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Deepak K Kadayakkara
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of MR Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Cellular Imaging Section and Vascular Biology Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Amnon Bar-Shir
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of MR Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Cellular Imaging Section and Vascular Biology Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Assaf A Gilad
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of MR Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Cellular Imaging Section and Vascular Biology Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Michael T McMahon
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of MR Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jeff W M Bulte
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of MR Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Cellular Imaging Section and Vascular Biology Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Gilad AA, Pelled G. New approaches for the neuroimaging of gene expression. Front Integr Neurosci 2015; 9:5. [PMID: 25698946 PMCID: PMC4316713 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2015.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Assaf A Gilad
- The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD, USA ; Cellular Imaging Section and Vascular Biology Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Galit Pelled
- The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD, USA ; F. M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
Stem cell based-therapies are novel therapeutic strategies that hold key for developing new treatments for diseases conditions with very few or no cures. Although there has been an increase in the number of clinical trials involving stem cell-based therapies in the last few years, the long-term risks and benefits of these therapies are still unknown. Detailed in vivo studies are needed to monitor the fate of transplanted cells, including their distribution, differentiation, and longevity over time. Advancements in non-invasive cellular imaging techniques to track engrafted cells in real-time present a powerful tool for determining the efficacy of stem cell-based therapies. In this review, we describe the latest approaches to stem cell labeling and tracking using different imaging modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit K Srivastava
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of MR Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 217 Traylor Building, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205-1832, USA
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Danhier P, Gallez B. Electron paramagnetic resonance: a powerful tool to support magnetic resonance imaging research. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2014; 10:266-81. [PMID: 25362845 DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.1630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to describe some of the areas where electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) has provided unique information to MRI developments. The field of application mainly encompasses the EPR characterization of MRI paramagnetic contrast agents (gadolinium and manganese chelates, nitroxides) and superparamagnetic agents (iron oxide particles). The combined use of MRI and EPR has also been used to qualify or disqualify sources of contrast in MRI. Illustrative examples are presented with attempts to qualify oxygen sensitive contrast (i.e. T1 - and T2 *-based methods), redox status or melanin content in tissues. Other areas are likely to benefit from the combined EPR/MRI approach, namely cell tracking studies. Finally, the combination of EPR and MRI studies on the same models provides invaluable data regarding tissue oxygenation, hemodynamics and energetics. Our description will be illustrative rather than exhaustive to give to the readers a flavour of 'what EPR can do for MRI'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Danhier
- Biomedical Magnetic Resonance Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bernard Gallez
- Biomedical Magnetic Resonance Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Lerche MH, Jensen PR, Karlsson M, Meier S. NMR insights into the inner workings of living cells. Anal Chem 2014; 87:119-32. [PMID: 25084065 DOI: 10.1021/ac501467x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde H Lerche
- Albeda Research , Gamle Carlsberg Vej 10, 1799 Copenhagen V, Denmark
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Quantitative, noninvasive, in vivo longitudinal monitoring of gene expression in the brain by co-AAV transduction with a PET reporter gene. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2014; 1:14016. [PMID: 26015960 PMCID: PMC4362377 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2014.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In vivo imaging of vector transgene expression would be particularly valuable for repetitive monitoring of therapy in the brain, where invasive tissue sampling is contraindicated. We evaluated adeno-associated virus vector expression of a dopamine-2 receptor (D2R) mutant (D2R80A) by positron emission tomography in the brains of mice and cats. D2R80A is inactivated for intracellular signaling and binds subphysiologic amounts of the radioactive [18F]-fallypride analog of dopamine. The [18F]-fallypride signal bound to D2R80A in the injection site was normalized to the signal from endogenous D2R in the striatum and showed stable levels of expression within individual animals. A separate adeno-associated virus type 1 vector with identical gene expression control elements, expressing green fluorescent protein or a therapeutic gene, was coinjected with the D2R80A vector at equal doses into specific sites. Both transgenes had similar levels of gene expression by immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and quantitative PCR assays, demonstrating that D2R80A is a faithful surrogate measure for expression of a gene of interest. This dual vector approach allows the D2R80A gene to be used with any therapeutic gene and to be injected into a single site for monitoring while the therapeutic gene can be distributed more widely as needed in each disease.
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Genetically encoded reporters for hyperpolarized xenon magnetic resonance imaging. Nat Chem 2014; 6:629-34. [PMID: 24950334 DOI: 10.1038/nchem.1934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables high-resolution non-invasive observation of the anatomy and function of intact organisms. However, previous MRI reporters of key biological processes tied to gene expression have been limited by the inherently low molecular sensitivity of conventional (1)H MRI. This limitation could be overcome through the use of hyperpolarized nuclei, such as in the noble gas xenon, but previous reporters acting on such nuclei have been synthetic. Here, we introduce the first genetically encoded reporters for hyperpolarized (129)Xe MRI. These expressible reporters are based on gas vesicles (GVs), gas-binding protein nanostructures expressed by certain buoyant microorganisms. We show that GVs are capable of chemical exchange saturation transfer interactions with xenon, which enables chemically amplified GV detection at picomolar concentrations (a 100- to 10,000-fold improvement over comparable constructs for (1)H MRI). We demonstrate the use of GVs as heterologously expressed indicators of gene expression and chemically targeted exogenous labels in MRI experiments performed on living cells.
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Patrick PS, Hammersley J, Loizou L, Kettunen MI, Rodrigues TB, Hu DE, Tee SS, Hesketh R, Lyons SK, Soloviev D, Lewis DY, Aime S, Fulton SM, Brindle KM. Dual-modality gene reporter for in vivo imaging. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:415-20. [PMID: 24347640 PMCID: PMC3890795 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1319000111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to track cells and their patterns of gene expression in living organisms can increase our understanding of tissue development and disease. Gene reporters for bioluminescence, fluorescence, radionuclide, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been described but these suffer variously from limited depth penetration, spatial resolution, and sensitivity. We describe here a gene reporter, based on the organic anion transporting protein Oatp1a1, which mediates uptake of a clinically approved, Gd(3+)-based, hepatotrophic contrast agent (gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid). Cells expressing the reporter showed readily reversible, intense, and positive contrast (up to 7.8-fold signal enhancement) in T1-weighted magnetic resonance images acquired in vivo. The maximum signal enhancement obtained so far is more than double that produced by MRI gene reporters described previously. Exchanging the Gd(3+) ion for the radionuclide, (111)In, also allowed detection by single-photon emission computed tomography, thus combining the spatial resolution of MRI with the sensitivity of radionuclide imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Stephen Patrick
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
| | - Jayne Hammersley
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Louiza Loizou
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Mikko I. Kettunen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
| | - Tiago B. Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
| | - De-En Hu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
| | - Sui-Seng Tee
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Robin Hesketh
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Scott K. Lyons
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
| | - Dmitry Soloviev
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
| | - David Y. Lewis
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
| | - Silvio Aime
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Sandra M. Fulton
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin M. Brindle
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom; and
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Napp LC, Templin C. What You See is What You Get? Imaging of Cell Therapy for Cardiac Regeneration. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGING REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s12410-013-9243-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Abstract
Advances in noninvasive imaging technologies that allow for in vivo dynamic monitoring of cells and cellular function in living research subjects have revealed new insights into cell biology in the context of intact organs and their native environment. In the field of hematopoiesis and stem cell research, studies of cell trafficking involved in injury repair and hematopoietic engraftment have made great progress using these new tools. Stem cells present unique challenges for imaging since after transplantation, they proliferate dramatically and differentiate. Therefore, the imaging modality used needs to have a large dynamic range, and the genetic regulatory elements used need to be stably expressed during differentiation. Multiple imaging technologies using different modalities are available, and each varies in sensitivity, ease of data acquisition, signal to noise ratios (SNR), substrate availability, and other parameters that affect utility for monitoring cell fates and function. For a given application, there may be several different approaches that can be used. For mouse models, clinically validated technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) have been joined by optical imaging techniques such as in vivo bioluminescence imaging (BLI) and fluorescence imaging (FLI), and all have been used to monitor bone marrow and stem cells after transplantation into mice. Photoacoustic imaging that utilizes the sound created by the thermal expansion of absorbed light to generate an image best represents hybrid technologies. Each modality requires that the cells of interest be marked with a genetic reporter that acts as a label making them uniquely visible using that technology. For each modality, there are several labels to choose from. Multiple methods for applying these different labels are available. This chapter provides an overview of the imaging technologies and commonly used labels for each, as well as detailed protocols for gene delivery into hematopoietic cells for the purposes of applying these specific labels to cell trafficking. The goal of this chapter is to provide adequate background information to allow the design and implementation of an experimental system for in vivo imaging in mice.
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Srinivas M, Melero I, Kaempgen E, Figdor CG, de Vries IJM. Cell tracking using multimodal imaging. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2013; 8:432-8. [DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.1561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 07/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mangala Srinivas
- Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre; Department of Tumor Immunology; Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Ignacio Melero
- University of Navarra; CIMA, CUV and Medica School; Pamplona Spain
| | - Eckhart Kaempgen
- University Hospital Erlangen; Dept. of Dermatology; Erlangen Germany
| | - Carl G. Figdor
- Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre; Department of Tumor Immunology; Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - I. Jolanda M. de Vries
- Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre; Department of Tumor Immunology; Nijmegen The Netherlands
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