1
|
Popp C, Miller W, Eide C, Tolar J, McGrath JA, Ebens CL. Beyond the Surface: A Narrative Review Examining the Systemic Impacts of Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1943-1953. [PMID: 38613531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare genetic disease resulting from inadequate type VII collagen (C7). Although recurrent skin blisters and wounds are the most apparent disease features, the impact of C7 loss is not confined to the skin and mucous membranes. RDEB is a systemic disease marred by chronic inflammation, fibrotic changes, pain, itch, and anemia, significantly impacting QOL and survival. In this narrative review, we summarize these systemic features of RDEB and promising research avenues to address them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Popp
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - William Miller
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cindy Eide
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jakub Tolar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; MHealth Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - John A McGrath
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's Hospital, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christen L Ebens
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; MHealth Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Danescu S, Negrutiu M, Has C. Treatment of Epidermolysis Bullosa and Future Directions: A Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2024; 14:2059-2075. [PMID: 39090514 PMCID: PMC11333680 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-024-01227-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) comprises rare genetic disorders characterized by skin and mucosal membrane blistering induced by mechanical trauma. Molecularly, pathogenic variants affect genes encoding proteins crucial for epidermal-dermal adhesion and stability. Management of severe EB is multidisciplinary, focusing on wound healing support, ensuring that patients thrive, and complication treatment. Despite extensive research over 30 years, novel therapeutic approaches face challenges. Gene therapy and protein therapy struggle with efficacy, while regenerative cell-based therapies show limited effects. Drug repurposing to target various pathogenic mechanisms has gained attention, as has in vivo gene therapy with drugs for dystrophic and junctional EB that were recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA). However, their high cost limits global accessibility. This review examines therapeutic advancements made over the past 5 years, exploiting a systematic literature review and clinical trial data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sorina Danescu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine Iuliu Hatieganu Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mircea Negrutiu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine Iuliu Hatieganu Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristina Has
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gila F, Alamdari-Palangi V, Rafiee M, Jokar A, Ehtiaty S, Dianatinasab A, Khatami SH, Taheri-Anganeh M, Movahedpour A, Fallahi J. Gene-edited cells: novel allogeneic gene/cell therapy for epidermolysis bullosa. J Appl Genet 2024:10.1007/s13353-024-00839-2. [PMID: 38459407 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-024-00839-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of rare genetic skin fragility disorders, which are hereditary. These disorders are associated with mutations in at least 16 genes that encode components of the epidermal adhesion complex. Currently, there are no effective treatments for this disorder. All current treatment approaches focus on topical treatments to prevent complications and infections. In recent years, significant progress has been achieved in the treatment of the severe genetic skin blistering condition known as EB through preclinical and clinical advancements. Promising developments have emerged in the areas of protein and cell therapies, such as allogeneic stem cell transplantation; in addition, RNA-based therapies and gene therapy approaches have also become a reality. Stem cells obtained from embryonic or adult tissues, including the skin, are undifferentiated cells with the ability to generate, maintain, and replace fully developed cells and tissues. Recent advancements in preclinical and clinical research have significantly enhanced stem cell therapy, presenting a promising treatment option for various diseases that are not effectively addressed by current medical treatments. Different types of stem cells such as primarily hematopoietic and mesenchymal, obtained from the patient or from a donor, have been utilized to treat severe forms of diseases, each with some beneficial effects. In addition, extensive research has shown that gene transfer methods targeting allogeneic and autologous epidermal stem cells to replace or correct the defective gene are promising. These methods can regenerate and restore the adhesion of primary keratinocytes in EB patients. The long-term treatment of skin lesions in a small number of patients has shown promising results through the transplantation of skin grafts produced from gene-corrected autologous epidermal stem cells. This article attempts to summarize the current situation, potential development prospects, and some of the challenges related to the cell therapy approach for EB treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Gila
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Vahab Alamdari-Palangi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maedeh Rafiee
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Arezoo Jokar
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sajad Ehtiaty
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aria Dianatinasab
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Hossein Khatami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Jafar Fallahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rendra E, Crigna AT, Daniele C, Sticht C, Cueppers M, Kluth MA, Ganss C, Frank MH, Gretz N, Bieback K. Clinical-grade human skin-derived ABCB5+ mesenchymal stromal cells exert anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and modulate mRNA expression in a cisplatin-induced kidney injury murine model. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1228928. [PMID: 38274791 PMCID: PMC10808769 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1228928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is characterized by a rapid reduction in renal function and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The broadly used anti-cancer chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin often induces AKI as an adverse drug side effect. Therapies targeted at the reversal of AKI and its potential progression to chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease are currently insufficiently effective. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) possess diverse immunomodulatory properties that confer upon them significant therapeutic potential for the treatment of diverse inflammatory disorders. Human dermal MSCs expressing ATP-Binding Cassette member B5 (ABCB5) have shown therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials in chronic skin wounds or recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. In preclinical studies, ABCB5+ MSCs have also shown to reverse metabolic reprogramming in polycystic kidney cells, suggesting a capacity for this cell subset to improve also organ function in kidney diseases. Here, we aimed to explore the therapeutic capacity of ABCB5+ MSCs to improve renal function in a preclinical rat model of cisplatin-induced AKI. First, the anti-apoptotic and immunomodulatory capacity was compared against research-grade adipose stromal cells (ASCs). Then, cross-species immunomodulatory capacity was checked, testing first inhibition of mitogen-driven peripheral blood mononuclear cells and then modulation of macrophage function. Finally, therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in a cisplatin AKI model. First, ABCB5+ MSCs suppressed cisplatin-induced apoptosis of human conditionally-immortalized proximal tubular epithelial cells in vitro, most likely by reducing oxidative stress. Second, ABCB5+ MSCs inhibited the proliferation of either human or rat peripheral blood mononuclear cells, in the human system via the Indoleamine/kynurenine axis and in the murine context via nitric oxide/nitrite. Third, ABCB5+ MSCs decreased TNF-α secretion after lipopolysaccharide stimulation and modulated phagocytosis and in both human and rat macrophages, involving prostaglandin E2 and TGF-β1, respectively. Fourth, clinical-grade ABCB5+ MSCs grafted intravenously and intraperitoneally to a cisplatin-induced AKI murine model exerted modulatory effects on mRNA expression patterns toward an anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative state despite an apparent lack of amelioration of renal damage at physiologic, metabolic, and histologic levels. Our results demonstrate anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative effects of clinical grade ABCB5+ MSCs in vitro and in vivo and suggest potential therapeutic utility of this cell population for treatment or prevention of cisplatin chemotherapy-induced tissue toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Rendra
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Immunology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, German Red Cross Blood Service Baden-Württemberg - Hessen, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adriana Torres Crigna
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Immunology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, German Red Cross Blood Service Baden-Württemberg - Hessen, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Cristina Daniele
- Medical Faculty Mannheim, Medical Research Centre, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carsten Sticht
- Medical Faculty Mannheim, Medical Research Centre, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Maike Cueppers
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Immunology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, German Red Cross Blood Service Baden-Württemberg - Hessen, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | | | - Markus H. Frank
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Harvard Skin Disease Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Norbert Gretz
- Medical Faculty Mannheim, Medical Research Centre, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Karen Bieback
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Immunology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, German Red Cross Blood Service Baden-Württemberg - Hessen, Mannheim, Germany
- Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dieter K, Niebergall-Roth E, Daniele C, Fluhr S, Frank NY, Ganss C, Kiritsi D, McGrath JA, Tolar J, Frank MH, Kluth MA. ABCB5 + mesenchymal stromal cells facilitate complete and durable wound closure in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Cytotherapy 2023; 25:782-788. [PMID: 36868990 PMCID: PMC10257763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2023.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a hereditary, rare, devastating and life-threatening skin fragility disorder with a high unmet medical need. In a recent international, single-arm clinical trial, treatment of 16 patients (aged 6-36 years) with three intravenous infusions of 2 × 106 immunomodulatory ABCB5+ dermal mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs)/kg on days 0, 17 and 35 reduced disease activity, itch and pain. A post-hoc analysis was undertaken to assess the potential effects of treatment with ABCB5+ MSCs on the overall skin wound healing in patients suffering from RDEB. METHODS Documentary photographs of the affected body regions taken on days 0, 17, 35 and at 12 weeks were evaluated regarding proportion, temporal course and durability of wound closure as well as development of new wounds. RESULTS Of 168 baseline wounds in 14 patients, 109 (64.9%) wounds had closed at week 12, of which 63.3% (69 wounds) had closed already by day 35 or day 17. Conversely, 74.2% of the baseline wounds that had closed by day 17 or day 35 remained closed until week 12. First-closure ratio within 12 weeks was 75.6%. The median rate of newly developing wounds decreased significantly (P = 0.001) by 79.3%. CONCLUSIONS Comparison of the findings with published data from placebo arms and vehicle-treated wounds in controlled clinical trials suggests potential capability of ABCB5+ MSCs to facilitate wound closure, prolongate wound recurrence and decelerate formation of new wounds in RDEB. Beyond suggesting therapeutic efficacy for ABCB5+ MSCs, the analysis might stimulate researchers who develop therapies for RDEB and other skin fragility disorders to not only assess closure of preselected target wounds but pay attention to the patients' dynamic and diverse overall wound presentation as well as to the durability of achieved wound closure and the development of new wounds. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03529877; EudraCT 2018-001009-98.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Natasha Y Frank
- Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christoph Ganss
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Heidelberg, Germany; TICEBA GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dimitra Kiritsi
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - John A McGrath
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jakub Tolar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota M Health Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Markus H Frank
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mark A Kluth
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Heidelberg, Germany; TICEBA GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hou PC, del Agua N, Lwin SM, Hsu CK, McGrath JA. Innovations in the Treatment of Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (DEB): Current Landscape and Prospects. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2023; 19:455-473. [PMID: 37337559 PMCID: PMC10277004 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s386923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is one of the major types of EB, a rare hereditary group of trauma-induced blistering skin disorders. DEB is caused by inherited pathogenic variants in the COL7A1 gene, which encodes type VII collagen, the major component of anchoring fibrils which maintain adhesion between the outer epidermis and underlying dermis. DEB can be subclassified into dominant (DDEB) and recessive (RDEB) forms. Generally, DDEB has a milder phenotype, while RDEB patients often have more extensive blistering, chronic inflammation, skin fibrosis, and a propensity for squamous cell carcinoma development, collectively impacting on daily activities and life expectancy. At present, best practice treatments are mostly supportive, and thus there is a considerable burden of disease with unmet therapeutic need. Over the last 20 years, considerable translational research efforts have focused on either trying to cure DEB by direct correction of the COL7A1 gene pathology, or by modifying secondary inflammation to lessen phenotypic severity and improve patient symptoms such as poor wound healing, itch, and pain. In this review, we provide an overview and update on various therapeutic innovations for DEB, including gene therapy, cell-based therapy, protein therapy, and disease-modifying and symptomatic control agents. We outline the progress and challenges for each treatment modality and identify likely prospects for future clinical impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Chen Hou
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Nathalie del Agua
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration (iWRR), National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Su M Lwin
- St John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Chao-Kai Hsu
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration (iWRR), National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - John A McGrath
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration (iWRR), National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- St John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Niebergall-Roth E, Dieter K, Daniele C, Fluhr S, Khokhrina M, Silva I, Ganss C, Frank MH, Kluth MA. Kinetics of Wound Development and Healing Suggests a Skin-Stabilizing Effect of Allogeneic ABCB5 + Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Treatment in Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. Cells 2023; 12:1468. [PMID: 37296590 PMCID: PMC10252830 DOI: 10.3390/cells12111468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis (RDEB) is a rare, inherited, and currently incurable skin blistering disorder characterized by cyclically recurring wounds coexisting with chronic non-healing wounds. In a recent clinical trial, three intravenous infusions of skin-derived ABCB5+ mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to 14 patients with RDEB improved the healing of wounds that were present at baseline. Since in RDEB even minor mechanical forces perpetually provoke the development of new or recurrent wounds, a post-hoc analysis of patient photographs was performed to specifically assess the effects of ABCB5+ MSCs on new or recurrent wounds by evaluating 174 wounds that occurred after baseline. During 12 weeks of systemic treatment with ABCB5+ MSCs, the number of newly occurring wounds declined. When compared to the previously reported healing responses of the wounds present at baseline, the newly occurring wounds healed faster, and a greater portion of healed wounds remained stably closed. These data suggest a previously undescribed skin-stabilizing effect of treatment with ABCB5+ MSCs and support repeated dosing of ABCB5+ MSCs in RDEB to continuously slow the wound development and accelerate the healing of new or recurrent wounds before they become infected or progress to a chronic, difficult-to-heal stage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Silvia Fluhr
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Ines Silva
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Markus H. Frank
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth 6027, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Anderson JD. Advances in Stem Cell Immunotherapy. Stem Cells 2023; 41:307-309. [PMID: 37098181 PMCID: PMC10128948 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxad011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Johnathon D Anderson
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Niebergall-Roth E, Frank NY, Ganss C, Frank MH, Kluth MA. Skin-Derived ABCB5 + Mesenchymal Stem Cells for High-Medical-Need Inflammatory Diseases: From Discovery to Entering Clinical Routine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:66. [PMID: 36613507 PMCID: PMC9820160 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The ATP-binding cassette superfamily member ABCB5 identifies a subset of skin-resident mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that exhibit potent immunomodulatory and wound healing-promoting capacities along with superior homing ability. The ABCB5+ MSCs can be easily accessed from discarded skin samples, expanded, and delivered as a highly homogenous medicinal product with standardized potency. A range of preclinical studies has suggested therapeutic efficacy of ABCB5+ MSCs in a variety of currently uncurable skin and non-skin inflammatory diseases, which has been substantiated thus far by distinct clinical trials in chronic skin wounds or recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Therefore, skin-derived ABCB5+ MSCs have the potential to provide a breakthrough at the forefront of MSC-based therapies striving to fulfill current unmet medical needs. The most recent milestones in this regard are the approval of a phase III pivotal trial of ABCB5+ MSCs for treatment of recessive dystrophic and junctional epidermolysis bullosa by the US Food and Drug Administration, and national market access of ABCB5+ MSCs (AMESANAR®) for therapy-refractory chronic venous ulcers under the national hospital exemption pathway in Germany.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Natasha Y. Frank
- Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02132, USA
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Christoph Ganss
- TICEBA GmbH, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Markus H. Frank
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth 6027, Australia
| | - Mark A. Kluth
- TICEBA GmbH, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Domdey M, Kluth M, Maßlo C, Ganss C, Frank M, Frank N, Coroneo M, Cursiefen C, Notara M. Consecutive dosing of UVB irradiation induces loss of ABCB5 expression and activation of EMT and fibrosis proteins in limbal epithelial cells similar to pterygium epithelium. Stem Cell Res 2022; 64:102936. [PMID: 36242878 PMCID: PMC9582195 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2022.102936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Pterygium pathogenesis is often attributed to a population of altered limbal stem cells, which initiate corneal invasion and drive the hyperproliferation and fibrosis associated with the disease. These cells are thought to undergo epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and to contribute to subepithelial stromal fibrosis. In this study, the presence of the novel limbal stem cell marker ABCB5 in clusters of basal epithelial pterygium cells co-expressing with P63α and P40 is reported. ABCB5-positive pterygium cells also express EMT-associated fibrosis markers including vimentin and α-SMA while their β-catenin expression is reduced. By using a novel in vitro model of two-dose UV-induced EMT activation on limbal epithelial cells, we could observe the dysregulation of EMT-related proteins including an increase of vimentin and α-SMA as well as downregulation of β-catenin in epithelial cells correlating to downregulation of ABCB5. The sequential irradiation of limbal fibroblasts also induced an increase in vimentin and α-SMA. Taken together, these data demonstrate for the first time the expression of ABCB5 in pterygium stem cell activity and EMT-related events while the involvement of limbal stem cells in pterygium pathogenesis is exhibited via sequential irradiation of limbal epithelial cells. The later in vitro approach can be used to further study the involvement of limbal epithelium UV-induced EMT in pterygium pathogenesis and help identify novel treatments against pterygium growth and recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Domdey
- Dept. of Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany
| | - M.A. Kluth
- TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, Heidelberg, Germany,RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C. Maßlo
- TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, Heidelberg, Germany,RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C. Ganss
- TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, Heidelberg, Germany,RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M.H. Frank
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA,School of Medical Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - N.Y. Frank
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA,Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M.T. Coroneo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of New South Wales, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia,Ophthalmic Surgeons, Sydney, Australia,East Sydney Private Hospital, Sydney, Australia,Look for Life Foundation, Sydney, Australia
| | - C. Cursiefen
- Dept. of Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany,Institute for Genome Stability in Ageing and Disease, CECAD Research Center, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, 50931 Cologne, Germany,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMK), University of Cologne, Germany
| | - M. Notara
- Dept. of Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Cologne, Germany,Institute for Genome Stability in Ageing and Disease, CECAD Research Center, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, 50931 Cologne, Germany,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMK), University of Cologne, Germany,Corresponding author at: Dept. of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Kerpener Straße 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kerstan A, Dieter K, Niebergall-Roth E, Klingele S, Jünger M, Hasslacher C, Daeschlein G, Stemler L, Meyer-Pannwitt U, Schubert K, Klausmann G, Raab T, Goebeler M, Kraft K, Esterlechner J, Schröder HM, Sadeghi S, Ballikaya S, Gasser M, Waaga-Gasser AM, Murphy GF, Orgill DP, Frank NY, Ganss C, Scharffetter-Kochanek K, Frank MH, Kluth MA. Translational development of ABCB5 + dermal mesenchymal stem cells for therapeutic induction of angiogenesis in non-healing diabetic foot ulcers. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:455. [PMID: 36064604 PMCID: PMC9444095 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03156-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While rapid healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) is highly desirable to avoid infections, amputations and life-threatening complications, DFUs often respond poorly to standard treatment. GMP-manufactured skin-derived ABCB5+ mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) might provide a new adjunctive DFU treatment, based on their remarkable skin wound homing and engraftment potential, their ability to adaptively respond to inflammatory signals, and their wound healing-promoting efficacy in mouse wound models and human chronic venous ulcers. Methods The angiogenic potential of ABCB5+ MSCs was characterized with respect to angiogenic factor expression at the mRNA and protein level, in vitro endothelial trans-differentiation and tube formation potential, and perfusion-restoring capacity in a mouse hindlimb ischemia model. Finally, the efficacy and safety of ABCB5+ MSCs for topical adjunctive treatment of chronic, standard therapy-refractory, neuropathic plantar DFUs were assessed in an open-label single-arm clinical trial. Results Hypoxic incubation of ABCB5+ MSCs led to posttranslational stabilization of the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 1α (HIF-1α) and upregulation of HIF-1α mRNA levels. HIF-1α pathway activation was accompanied by upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) transcription and increase in VEGF protein secretion. Upon culture in growth factor-supplemented medium, ABCB5+ MSCs expressed the endothelial-lineage marker CD31, and after seeding on gel matrix, ABCB5+ MSCs demonstrated formation of capillary-like structures comparable with human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Intramuscularly injected ABCB5+ MSCs to mice with surgically induced hindlimb ischemia accelerated perfusion recovery as measured by laser Doppler blood perfusion imaging and enhanced capillary proliferation and vascularization in the ischemic muscles. Adjunctive topical application of ABCB5+ MSCs onto therapy-refractory DFUs elicited median wound surface area reductions from baseline of 59% (full analysis set, n = 23), 64% (per-protocol set, n = 20) and 67% (subgroup of responders, n = 17) at week 12, while no treatment-related adverse events were observed. Conclusions The present observations identify GMP-manufactured ABCB5+ dermal MSCs as a potential, safe candidate for adjunctive therapy of otherwise incurable DFUs and justify the conduct of a larger, randomized controlled trial to validate the clinical efficacy. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03267784, Registered 30 August 2017, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03267784 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03156-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Kerstan
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Sabrina Klingele
- TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Jünger
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Georg Daeschlein
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,Clinic of Dermatology, Immunology and Allergology, Medical University Brandenburg "Theodor Fontane" Medical Center Dessau, Dessau, Germany
| | - Lutz Stemler
- Diabetologikum DDG Ludwigshafen, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Matthias Goebeler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Samar Sadeghi
- TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Seda Ballikaya
- TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Gasser
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ana M Waaga-Gasser
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Division of Renal (Kidney) Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George F Murphy
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dennis P Orgill
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Natasha Y Frank
- Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.,Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Christoph Ganss
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Heidelberg, Germany.,TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Markus H Frank
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.,School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Mark A Kluth
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Heidelberg, Germany. .,TICEBA GmbH, Im Neuenheimer Feld 517, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nardozi D, Palumbo S, Khan AUM, Sticht C, Bieback K, Sadeghi S, Kluth MA, Keese M, Gretz N. Potential Therapeutic Effects of Long-Term Stem Cell Administration: Impact on the Gene Profile and Kidney Function of PKD/Mhm (Cy/+) Rats. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11092601. [PMID: 35566725 PMCID: PMC9102853 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11092601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic kidney disease (CKD) is a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders and one of the most common causes of end-stage renal disease. Here, we investigate the potential effects of long-term human stem cell treatment on kidney function and the gene expression profile of PKD/Mhm (Cy/+) rats. Human adipose-derived stromal cells (ASC) and human skin-derived ABCB5+ stromal cells (2 × 106) were infused intravenously or intraperitoneally monthly, over 6 months. Additionally, ASC and ABCB5+-derived conditioned media were administrated intraperitoneally. The gene expression profile results showed a significant reprogramming of metabolism-related pathways along with downregulation of the cAMP, NF-kB and apoptosis pathways. During the experimental period, we measured the principal renal parameters as well as renal function using an innovative non-invasive transcutaneous device. All together, these analyses show a moderate amelioration of renal function in the ABCB5+ and ASC-treated groups. Additionally, ABCB5+ and ASC-derived conditioned media treatments lead to milder but still promising improvements. Even though further analyses have to be performed, the preliminary results obtained in this study can lay the foundations for a novel therapeutic approach with the application of cell-based therapy in CKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Nardozi
- Medical Research Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (D.N.); (S.P.); (A.u.M.K.); (C.S.)
- Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany;
| | - Stefania Palumbo
- Medical Research Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (D.N.); (S.P.); (A.u.M.K.); (C.S.)
| | - Arif ul Maula Khan
- Medical Research Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (D.N.); (S.P.); (A.u.M.K.); (C.S.)
| | - Carsten Sticht
- Medical Research Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (D.N.); (S.P.); (A.u.M.K.); (C.S.)
| | - Karen Bieback
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Immunology, Mannheim Institute of Innate Immunoscience, German Red Cross Blood Service Baden-Württemberg—Hessen, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany;
| | - Samar Sadeghi
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co.KG/TICEBA GmbH, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (S.S.); (M.A.K.)
| | - Mark Andreas Kluth
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co.KG/TICEBA GmbH, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (S.S.); (M.A.K.)
| | - Michael Keese
- Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany;
| | - Norbert Gretz
- Medical Research Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (D.N.); (S.P.); (A.u.M.K.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mastrogiacomo M, Nardini M, Collina MC, Di Campli C, Filaci G, Cancedda R, Odorisio T. Innovative Cell and Platelet Rich Plasma Therapies for Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment: The Allogeneic Approach. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:869408. [PMID: 35586557 PMCID: PMC9108368 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.869408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous chronic wounds are a major global health burden in continuous growth, because of population aging and the higher incidence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes. Different treatments have been proposed: biological, surgical, and physical. However, most of these treatments are palliative and none of them can be considered fully satisfactory. During a spontaneous wound healing, endogenous regeneration mechanisms and resident cell activity are triggered by the released platelet content. Activated stem and progenitor cells are key factors for ulcer healing, and they can be either recruited to the wound site from the tissue itself (resident cells) or from elsewhere. Transplant of skin substitutes, and of stem cells derived from tissues such as bone marrow or adipose tissue, together with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments have been proposed as therapeutic options, and they represent the today most promising tools to promote ulcer healing in diabetes. Although stem cells can directly participate to skin repair, they primarily contribute to the tissue remodeling by releasing biomolecules and microvesicles able to stimulate the endogenous regeneration mechanisms. Stem cells and PRP can be obtained from patients as autologous preparations. However, in the diabetic condition, poor cell number, reduced cell activity or impaired PRP efficacy may limit their use. Administration of allogeneic preparations from healthy and/or younger donors is regarded with increasing interest to overcome such limitation. This review summarizes the results obtained when these innovative treatments were adopted in preclinical animal models of diabetes and in diabetic patients, with a focus on allogeneic preparations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Mastrogiacomo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche (DIMI), Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Maddalena Mastrogiacomo,
| | - Marta Nardini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche (DIMI), Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Collina
- Unità Operativa Semplice Piede Diabetico e Ulcere Cutanee, IDI-IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Cristiana Di Campli
- Unità Operativa Semplice Piede Diabetico e Ulcere Cutanee, IDI-IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Gilberto Filaci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche (DIMI), Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Ranieri Cancedda
- Emeritus Professor, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Teresa Odorisio
- Laboratorio di Biologia Molecolare e Cellulare, IDI-IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Morren MA, Legius E, Giuliano F, Hadj-Rabia S, Hohl D, Bodemer C. Challenges in Treating Genodermatoses: New Therapies at the Horizon. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:746664. [PMID: 35069188 PMCID: PMC8766835 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.746664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Genodermatoses are rare inherited skin diseases that frequently affect other organs. They often have marked effects on wellbeing and may cause early death. Progress in molecular genetics and translational research has unravelled many underlying pathological mechanisms, and in several disorders with high unmet need, has opened the way for the introduction of innovative treatments. One approach is to intervene where cell-signaling pathways are dysregulated, in the case of overactive pathways by the use of selective inhibitors, or when the activity of an essential factor is decreased by augmenting a molecular component to correct disequilibrium in the pathway. Where inflammatory reactions have been induced by a genetically altered protein, another possible approach is to suppress the inflammation directly. Depending on the nature of the genodermatosis, the implicated protein or even on the particular mutation, to correct the consequences or the genetic defect, may require a highly personalised stratagem. Repurposed drugs, can be used to bring about a "read through" strategy especially where the genetic defect induces premature termination codons. Sometimes the defective protein can be replaced by a normal functioning one. Cell therapies with allogeneic normal keratinocytes or fibroblasts may restore the integrity of diseased skin and allogeneic bone marrow or mesenchymal cells may additionally rescue other affected organs. Genetic engineering is expanding rapidly. The insertion of a normal functioning gene into cells of the recipient is since long explored. More recently, genome editing, allows reframing, insertion or deletion of exons or disruption of aberrantly functioning genes. There are now several examples where these stratagems are being explored in the (pre)clinical phase of therapeutic trial programmes. Another stratagem, designed to reduce the severity of a given disease involves the use of RNAi to attenuate expression of a harmful protein by decreasing abundance of the cognate transcript. Most of these strategies are short-lasting and will thus require intermittent life-long administration. In contrast, insertion of healthy copies of the relevant gene or editing the disease locus in the genome to correct harmful mutations in stem cells is more likely to induce a permanent cure. Here we discuss the potential advantages and drawbacks of applying these technologies in patients with these genetic conditions. Given the severity of many genodermatoses, prevention of transmission to future generations remains an important goal including offering reproductive choices, such as preimplantation genetic testing, which can allow selection of an unaffected embryo for transfer to the uterus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Anne Morren
- Pediatric Dermatology Unit, Departments of Dermatology and Venereology and Pediatrics, University Hospital Lausanne, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric Legius
- Department for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, ERN Genturis and ERN Skin, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Fabienne Giuliano
- Department of Medical Genetics, University Hospital Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Smail Hadj-Rabia
- Department of Pediatric Dermatology and Dermatology, National Reference Centre for Genodermatosis and Rare Diseases of the Skin (MAGEC), Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, and Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris Descartes, ERN Skin, Paris, France
| | - Daniel Hohl
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Lausanne, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christine Bodemer
- Department of Pediatric Dermatology and Dermatology, National Reference Centre for Genodermatosis and Rare Diseases of the Skin (MAGEC), Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, and Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris Descartes, ERN Skin, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kiritsi D, Dieter K, Niebergall-Roth E, Fluhr S, Daniele C, Esterlechner J, Sadeghi S, Ballikaya S, Erdinger L, Schauer F, Gewert S, Laimer M, Bauer JW, Hovnanian A, Zambruno G, El Hachem M, Bourrat E, Papanikolaou M, Petrof G, Kitzmüller S, Ebens CL, Frank MH, Frank NY, Ganss C, Martinez AE, McGrath JA, Tolar J, Kluth MA. Clinical trial of ABCB5+ mesenchymal stem cells for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. JCI Insight 2021; 6:151922. [PMID: 34665781 PMCID: PMC8663784 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.151922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare, devastating, and life-threatening inherited skin fragility disorder that comes about due to a lack of functional type VII collagen, for which no effective therapy exists. ABCB5+ dermal mesenchymal stem cells (ABCB5+ MSCs) possess immunomodulatory, inflammation-dampening, and tissue-healing capacities. In a Col7a1–/– mouse model of RDEB, treatment with ABCB5+ MSCs markedly extended the animals’ lifespans. METHODS In this international, multicentric, single-arm, phase I/IIa clinical trial, 16 patients (aged 4–36 years) enrolled into 4 age cohorts received 3 i.v. infusions of 2 × 106 ABCB5+ MSCs/kg on days 0, 17, and 35. Patients were followed up for 12 weeks regarding efficacy and 12 months regarding safety. RESULTS At 12 weeks, statistically significant median (IQR) reductions in the Epidermolysis Bullosa Disease Activity and Scarring Index activity (EBDASI activity) score of 13.0% (2.9%–30%; P = 0.049) and the Instrument for Scoring Clinical Outcome of Research for Epidermolysis Bullosa clinician (iscorEB‑c) score of 18.2% (1.9%–39.8%; P = 0.037) were observed. Reductions in itch and pain numerical rating scale scores were greatest on day 35, amounting to 37.5% (0.0%–42.9%; P = 0.033) and 25.0% (–8.4% to 46.4%; P = 0.168), respectively. Three adverse events were considered related to the cell product: 1 mild lymphadenopathy and 2 hypersensitivity reactions. The latter 2 were serious but resolved without sequelae shortly after withdrawal of treatment. CONCLUSION This trial demonstrates good tolerability, manageable safety, and potential efficacy of i.v. ABCB5+ MSCs as a readily available disease-modifying therapy for RDEB and provides a rationale for further clinical evaluation. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03529877; EudraCT 2018-001009-98. FUNDING The trial was sponsored by RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG. Contributions by NYF and MHF to this work were supported by the NIH/National Eye Institute (NEI) grants RO1EY025794 and R24EY028767.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Kiritsi
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Franziska Schauer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stella Gewert
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Martin Laimer
- EB House Austria, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johann W Bauer
- EB House Austria, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alain Hovnanian
- Department of Genetics at Necker Hospital and.,Department of Dermatology at Saint-Louis Hospital, INSERM UMR
| | | | - May El Hachem
- Dermatology Unit and Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCSS, Rome, Italy
| | - Emmanuelle Bourrat
- Department of Dermatology, Reference Center for Rare Skin Diseases MAGEC, St. Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Maria Papanikolaou
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriela Petrof
- Department of Dermatology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Kitzmüller
- EB House Austria, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christen L Ebens
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota M Health Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Markus H Frank
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Natasha Y Frank
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christoph Ganss
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Heidelberg, Germany.,TICEBA GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna E Martinez
- Department of Dermatology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - John A McGrath
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jakub Tolar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota M Health Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mark A Kluth
- RHEACELL GmbH & Co. KG, Heidelberg, Germany.,TICEBA GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Riedl J, Popp C, Eide C, Ebens C, Tolar J. Mesenchymal stromal cells in wound healing applications: role of the secretome, targeted delivery and impact on recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa treatment. Cytotherapy 2021; 23:961-973. [PMID: 34376336 PMCID: PMC8569889 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are multi-potent stromal-derived cells capable of self-renewal that possess several advantageous properties for wound healing, making them of interest to the field of dermatology. Research has focused on characterizing the unique properties of MSCs, which broadly revolve around their regenerative and more recently discovered immunomodulatory capacities. Because of ease of harvesting and expansion, differentiation potential and low immunogenicity, MSCs have been leading candidates for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications for wound healing, yet results from clinical studies have been variable, and promising pre-clinical work has been difficult to reproduce. Therefore, the specific mechanisms of how MSCs influence the local microenvironment in distinct wound etiologies warrant further research. Of specific interest in MSC-mediated healing is harnessing the secretome, which is composed of components known to positively influence wound healing. Molecules released by the MSC secretome can promote re-epithelialization and angiogenesis while inhibiting fibrosis and microbial invasion. This review focuses on the therapeutic interest in MSCs with regard to wound healing applications, including burns and diabetic ulcers, with specific attention to the genetic skin disease recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. This review also compares various delivery methods to support skin regeneration in the hopes of combating the poor engraftment of MSCs after delivery, which is one of the major pitfalls in clinical studies utilizing MSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Riedl
- Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Courtney Popp
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cindy Eide
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Christen Ebens
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jakub Tolar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Welponer T, Prodinger C, Pinon-Hofbauer J, Hintersteininger A, Breitenbach-Koller H, Bauer JW, Laimer M. Clinical Perspectives of Gene-Targeted Therapies for Epidermolysis Bullosa. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2021; 11:1175-1197. [PMID: 34110606 PMCID: PMC8322229 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-021-00561-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
New insights into molecular genetics and pathomechanisms in epidermolysis bullosa (EB), methodological and technological advances in molecular biology as well as designated funding initiatives and facilitated approval procedures for orphan drugs have boosted translational research perspectives for this devastating disease. This is echoed by the increasing number of clinical trials assessing innovative molecular therapies in the field of EB. Despite remarkable progress, gene-corrective modalities, aimed at sustained or permanent restoration of functional protein expression, still await broad clinical availability. This also reflects the methodological and technological shortcomings of current strategies, including the translatability of certain methodologies beyond preclinical models as well as the safe, specific, efficient, feasible, sustained and cost-effective delivery of therapeutic/corrective information to target cells. This review gives an updated overview on status, prospects, challenges and limitations of current gene-targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Welponer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology and EB House Austria, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christine Prodinger
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology and EB House Austria, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Josefina Pinon-Hofbauer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology and EB House Austria, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Arno Hintersteininger
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Johann W Bauer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology and EB House Austria, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Martin Laimer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology and EB House Austria, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Heydari P, Kharaziha M, Varshosaz J, Javanmard SH. Current knowledge of immunomodulation strategies for chronic skin wound repair. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2021; 110:265-288. [PMID: 34318595 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.34921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In orchestrating the wound healing process, the immune system plays a critical role. Hence, controlling the immune system to repair skin defects is an attractive approach. The highly complex immune system includes the coordinated actions of several immune cells, which can produce various inflammatory and antiinflammatory cytokines and affect the healing of skin wounds. This process can be optimized using biomaterials, bioactive molecules, and cell delivery. The present review discusses various immunomodulation strategies for supporting the healing of chronic wounds. In this regard, following the evolution of the immune system and its role in the wound healing mechanism, the interaction between the extracellular mechanism and immune cells for acceleration wound healing will be firstly investigated. Consequently, the immune-based chronic wounds will be briefly examined and the mechanism of progression, and conventional methods of their treatment are evaluated. In the following, various biomaterials-based immunomodulation strategies are introduced to stimulate and control the immune system to treat and regenerate skin defects. Other effective methods of controlling the immune system in wound healing which is the release of bioactive agents (such as antiinflammatory, antigens, and immunomodulators) and stem cell therapy at the site of injury are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Heydari
- Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahshid Kharaziha
- Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Jaleh Varshosaz
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Shaghayegh Haghjooy Javanmard
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Atkinson SP. A Preview of Selected Articles. Stem Cells 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.3419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
20
|
Riedl J, Pickett-Leonard M, Eide C, Kluth MA, Ganss C, Frank NY, Frank MH, Ebens CL, Tolar J. ABCB5+ dermal mesenchymal stromal cells with favorable skin homing and local immunomodulation for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa treatment. STEM CELLS (DAYTON, OHIO) 2021; 39:897-903. [PMID: 33609408 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare, incurable blistering skin disease caused by biallelic mutations in type VII collagen (C7). Advancements in treatment of RDEB have come from harnessing the immunomodulatory potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Although human bone marrow-derived MSC (BM-MSC) trials in RDEB demonstrate improvement in clinical severity, the mechanisms of MSC migration to and persistence in injured skin and their contributions to wound healing are not completely understood. A unique subset of MSCs expressing ATP-binding cassette subfamily member 5 (ABCB5) resides in the reticular dermis and exhibits similar immunomodulatory characteristics to BM-MSCs. Our work aimed to test the hypothesis that skin-derived ABCB5+ dermal MSCs (DSCs) possess superior skin homing ability compared to BM-MSCs in immunodeficient NOD-scid IL2rgammanull (NSG) mice. Compared to BM-MSCs, peripherally injected ABCB5+ DSCs demonstrated superior homing and engraftment of wounds. Furthermore, ABCB5+ DSCs vs BM-MSCs cocultured with macrophages induced less anti-inflammatory interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) production. RNA sequencing of ABCB5+ DSCs compared to BM-MSCs showed unique expression of major histocompatibility complex class II and Homeobox (Hox) genes, specifically HOXA3. Critical to inducing migration of endothelial and epithelial cells for wound repair, increased expression of HOXA3 may explain superior skin homing properties of ABCB5+ DSCs. Further discernment of the immunomodulatory mechanisms among MSC populations could have broader regenerative medicine implications beyond RDEB treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Riedl
- Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael Pickett-Leonard
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cindy Eide
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | - Natasha Y Frank
- Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Markus H Frank
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Christen L Ebens
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jakub Tolar
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|