1
|
Beck JD, Diken M, Suchan M, Streuber M, Diken E, Kolb L, Allnoch L, Vascotto F, Peters D, Beißert T, Akilli-Öztürk Ö, Türeci Ö, Kreiter S, Vormehr M, Sahin U. Long-lasting mRNA-encoded interleukin-2 restores CD8 + T cell neoantigen immunity in MHC class I-deficient cancers. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:568-582.e11. [PMID: 38490213 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigen presentation deficiency is a common cancer immune escape mechanism, but the mechanistic implications and potential strategies to address this challenge remain poorly understood. Studying β2-microglobulin (B2M) deficient mouse tumor models, we find that MHC class I loss leads to a substantial immune desertification of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and broad resistance to immune-, chemo-, and radiotherapy. We show that treatment with long-lasting mRNA-encoded interleukin-2 (IL-2) restores an immune cell infiltrated, IFNγ-promoted, highly proinflammatory TME signature, and when combined with a tumor-targeting monoclonal antibody (mAB), can overcome therapeutic resistance. Unexpectedly, the effectiveness of this treatment is driven by IFNγ-releasing CD8+ T cells that recognize neoantigens cross-presented by TME-resident activated macrophages. These macrophages acquire augmented antigen presentation proficiency and other M1-phenotype-associated features under IL-2 treatment. Our findings highlight the importance of restoring neoantigen-specific immune responses in the treatment of cancers with MHC class I deficiencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan D Beck
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Mustafa Diken
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany; BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin Suchan
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael Streuber
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Elif Diken
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Laura Kolb
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Lisa Allnoch
- BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Fulvia Vascotto
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Daniel Peters
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Tim Beißert
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Özlem Akilli-Öztürk
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Özlem Türeci
- BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kreiter
- TRON gGmbH - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Freiligrathstr. 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany; BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kramps T. Introduction to RNA Vaccines Post COVID-19. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2786:1-22. [PMID: 38814388 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3770-8_1] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Available prophylactic vaccines help prevent many infectious diseases that burden humanity. Future vaccinology will likely extend these benefits by more effectively countering newly emerging pathogens, fighting currently intractable infections, or even generating novel treatment modalities for non-infectious diseases. Instead of applying protein antigen directly, RNA vaccines contain short-lived genetic information that guides the expression of protein antigen in the vaccinee, like infection with a recombinant viral vector. Upon decades of research, messenger RNA-lipid nanoparticle (mRNA-LNP) vaccines have proven clinical value in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic as they combine benefits of killed subunit vaccines and live-attenuated vectors, including flexible production, self-adjuvanting effects, and stimulation of humoral and cellular immunity. RNA vaccines remain subject to continued development raising high hopes for broader future application. Their mechanistic versatility promises to make them a key tool of vaccinology and immunotherapy going forward. Here, I briefly review key developments in RNA vaccines and outline the contents of this volume of Methods in Molecular Biology.
Collapse
|
3
|
Dhanjal DS, Singh R, Sharma V, Nepovimova E, Adam V, Kuca K, Chopra C. Advances in Genetic Reprogramming: Prospects from Developmental Biology to Regenerative Medicine. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:1646-1690. [PMID: 37138422 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230503144619] [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: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The foundations of cell reprogramming were laid by Yamanaka and co-workers, who showed that somatic cells can be reprogrammed into pluripotent cells (induced pluripotency). Since this discovery, the field of regenerative medicine has seen advancements. For example, because they can differentiate into multiple cell types, pluripotent stem cells are considered vital components in regenerative medicine aimed at the functional restoration of damaged tissue. Despite years of research, both replacement and restoration of failed organs/ tissues have remained elusive scientific feats. However, with the inception of cell engineering and nuclear reprogramming, useful solutions have been identified to counter the need for compatible and sustainable organs. By combining the science underlying genetic engineering and nuclear reprogramming with regenerative medicine, scientists have engineered cells to make gene and stem cell therapies applicable and effective. These approaches have enabled the targeting of various pathways to reprogramme cells, i.e., make them behave in beneficial ways in a patient-specific manner. Technological advancements have clearly supported the concept and realization of regenerative medicine. Genetic engineering is used for tissue engineering and nuclear reprogramming and has led to advances in regenerative medicine. Targeted therapies and replacement of traumatized , damaged, or aged organs can be realized through genetic engineering. Furthermore, the success of these therapies has been validated through thousands of clinical trials. Scientists are currently evaluating induced tissue-specific stem cells (iTSCs), which may lead to tumour-free applications of pluripotency induction. In this review, we present state-of-the-art genetic engineering that has been used in regenerative medicine. We also focus on ways that genetic engineering and nuclear reprogramming have transformed regenerative medicine and have become unique therapeutic niches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daljeet Singh Dhanjal
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Reena Singh
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Varun Sharma
- Head of Bioinformatic Division, NMC Genetics India Pvt. Ltd., Gurugram, India
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 50003, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Adam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, Brno, CZ 613 00, Czech Republic
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 123, Brno, CZ-612 00, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 50003, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 50005, Czech Republic
| | - Chirag Chopra
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang Z, Jacobus EJ, Stirling DC, Krumm S, Flight KE, Cunliffe RF, Mottl J, Singh C, Mosscrop LG, Santiago LA, Vogel AB, Kariko K, Sahin U, Erbar S, Tregoning JS. Reducing cell intrinsic immunity to mRNA vaccine alters adaptive immune responses in mice. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 34:102045. [PMID: 37876532 PMCID: PMC10591005 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.102045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
The response to mRNA vaccines needs to be sufficient for immune cell activation and recruitment, but moderate enough to ensure efficacious antigen expression. The choice of the cap structure and use of N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ) instead of uridine, which have been shown to reduce RNA sensing by the cellular innate immune system, has led to improved efficacy of mRNA vaccine platforms. Understanding how RNA modifications influence the cell intrinsic immune response may help in the development of more effective mRNA vaccines. In the current study, we compared mRNA vaccines in mice against influenza virus using three different mRNA formats: uridine-containing mRNA (D1-uRNA), m1Ψ-modified mRNA (D1-modRNA), and D1-modRNA with a cap1 structure (cC1-modRNA). D1-uRNA vaccine induced a significantly different gene expression profile to the modified mRNA vaccines, with an up-regulation of Stat1 and RnaseL, and increased systemic inflammation. This result correlated with significantly reduced antigen-specific antibody responses and reduced protection against influenza virus infection compared with D1-modRNA and cC1-modRNA. Incorporation of m1Ψ alone without cap1 improved antibodies, but both modifications were required for the optimum response. Therefore, the incorporation of m1Ψ and cap1 alters protective immunity from mRNA vaccines by altering the innate immune response to the vaccine material.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziyin Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | | | - David C. Stirling
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | | | - Katie E. Flight
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Robert F. Cunliffe
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | | | - Charanjit Singh
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Lucy G. Mosscrop
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | | | | | | | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | | | - John S. Tregoning
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Graczyk A, Radzikowska-Cieciura E, Kaczmarek R, Pawlowska R, Chworos A. Modified Nucleotides for Chemical and Enzymatic Synthesis of Therapeutic RNA. Curr Med Chem 2023; 30:1320-1347. [PMID: 36239720 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666221014111403] [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: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, RNA has emerged as a medium with a broad spectrum of therapeutic potential, however, for years, a group of short RNA fragments was studied and considered therapeutic molecules. In nature, RNA plays both functions, with coding and non-coding potential. For RNA, like any other therapeutic, to be used clinically, certain barriers must be crossed. Among them, there are biocompatibility, relatively low toxicity, bioavailability, increased stability, target efficiency and low off-target effects. In the case of RNA, most of these obstacles can be overcome by incorporating modified nucleotides into its structure. This may be achieved by both, in vitro and in vivo biosynthetic methods, as well as chemical synthesis. Some advantages and disadvantages of each approach are summarized here. The wide range of nucleotide analogues has been tested for their utility as monomers for RNA synthesis. Many of them have been successfully implemented, and a lot of pre-clinical and clinical studies involving modified RNA have been carried out. Some of these medications have already been introduced into clinics. After the huge success of RNA-based vaccines that were introduced into widespread use in 2020, and the introduction to the market of some RNA-based drugs, RNA therapeutics containing modified nucleotides appear to be the future of medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Graczyk
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewa Radzikowska-Cieciura
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Renata Kaczmarek
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Roza Pawlowska
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Chworos
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhang W, Taheri-Ledari R, Ganjali F, Mirmohammadi SS, Qazi FS, Saeidirad M, KashtiAray A, Zarei-Shokat S, Tian Y, Maleki A. Effects of morphology and size of nanoscale drug carriers on cellular uptake and internalization process: a review. RSC Adv 2022; 13:80-114. [PMID: 36605676 PMCID: PMC9764328 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra06888e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In the field of targeted drug delivery, the effects of size and morphology of drug nanocarriers are of great importance and need to be discussed in depth. To be concise, among all the various shapes of nanocarriers, rods and tubes with a narrow cross-section are the most preferred shapes for the penetration of a cell membrane. In this regard, several studies have focused on methods to produce nanorods and nanotubes with controlled optimized size and aspect ratio (AR). Additionally, a non-spherical orientation could affect the cellular uptake process while a tangent angle of less than 45° is better at penetrating the membrane, and Ω = 90° is beneficial. Moreover, these nanocarriers show different behaviors when confronting diverse cells whose fields should be investigated in future studies. In this survey, a comprehensive classification based on carrier shape is first submitted. Then, the most commonly used methods for control over the size and shape of the carriers are reviewed. Finally, influential factors on the cellular uptake and internalization processes and related analytical methods for evaluating this process are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University No. 37, Guoxue Alley Chengdu 610041 Sichuan Province P. R. China
| | - Reza Taheri-Ledari
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| | - Fatemeh Ganjali
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| | - Seyedeh Shadi Mirmohammadi
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| | - Fateme Sadat Qazi
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| | - Mahdi Saeidirad
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| | - Amir KashtiAray
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| | - Simindokht Zarei-Shokat
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University No. 14, 3rd Section of South Renmin Road Chengdu 610041 P. R. China
| | - Ali Maleki
- Catalysts and Organic Synthesis Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology Tehran 16846-13114 Iran +98 21 73021584 +98 21 77240640-50
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nagaraj S, Stankiewicz-Drogon A, Darzynkiewicz E, Grzela R. RNA sensor response in HeLa cells for transfected mRNAs prepared in vitro by SP6 and HiT7 RNA polymerases: A comparative study. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1017934. [PMID: 36406230 PMCID: PMC9669293 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1017934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro transcribed (IVT) synthetic mRNAs are in high demand due to their attractive bench to clinic translational processes. Mainly, the procedure to make IVT mRNA using bacteriophage RNA polymerases (RNAP) is relatively uncomplicated and scalable to produce large quantities in a short time period. However, IVT mRNA preparations are accompanied by contaminants such as double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) as by-products that elicit undesired cellular immune responses upon transfections. Therefore, removing dsRNA contaminants is critical in IVT mRNA preparations for therapeutic applications. One such method to minimize dsRNA contaminants is to use genetically modified thermostable bacteriophage polymerase, HiT7 RNAP that performs IVT reaction at a higher temperature than typically used. However, the cellular RNA sensor response for IVT mRNA preparations by HiT7 RNAP is not characterized. Here, we compared the cellular RNA sensor response for mRNAs prepared by HiT7 RNAP (at 50°C) and SP6 RNAP (at 37°C) in HeLa cells. We show that IVT mRNA preparations by HiT7 RNAP reduced the dsRNA levels and dsRNA specific RNA sensor response (retinoic acid-inducible gene I, RIG-I and melanoma differentiation-associated 5, MDA5) compared to the IVT mRNA preparations by SP6 RNAP. Similarly, the incorporation of pseudouridine nucleotides instead of uridine nucleotides reduced dsRNA sensor response and increased the mRNA translation. Overall, the least dsRNA mediated RNA sensor response is observed when mRNA is synthesized by HiT7 RNAP and incorporated with pseudouridine nucleotides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siranjeevi Nagaraj
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Centre of New Technologies, University of WarsawWarsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Stankiewicz-Drogon
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of WarsawWarsaw, Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Centre of New Technologies, University of WarsawWarsaw, Poland
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of WarsawWarsaw, Poland
| | - Renata Grzela
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Centre of New Technologies, University of WarsawWarsaw, Poland
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of WarsawWarsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rapid differentiation of hiPSCs into functional oligodendrocytes using an OLIG2 synthetic modified messenger RNA. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1095. [PMID: 36241911 PMCID: PMC9568531 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04043-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) have been introduced to drive the highly efficient differentiation of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into lineage-specific oligodendrocytes (OLs). However, effective strategies currently rely mainly on genome-integrating viruses. Here we show that a synthetic modified messenger RNA (smRNA)-based reprogramming method that leads to the generation of transgene-free OLs has been developed. An smRNA encoding a modified form of OLIG2, in which the serine 147 phosphorylation site is replaced with alanine, OLIG2S147A, is designed to reprogram hiPSCs into OLs. We demonstrate that repeated administration of the smRNA encoding OLIG2S147A lead to higher and more stable protein expression. Using the single-mutant OLIG2 smRNA morphogen, we establish a 6-day smRNA transfection protocol, and glial induction lead to rapid NG2+ OL progenitor cell (OPC) generation (>70% purity) from hiPSC. The smRNA-induced NG2+ OPCs can mature into functional OLs in vitro and promote remyelination in vivo. Taken together, we present a safe and efficient smRNA-driven strategy for hiPSC differentiation into OLs, which may be utilized for therapeutic OPC/OL transplantation in patients with neurodegenerative disease. The use of synthetic modified messenger RNA (smRNA) allows for the differentiation of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into lineage-specific oligodendrocytes.
Collapse
|
9
|
Photocaged 5' cap analogues for optical control of mRNA translation in cells. Nat Chem 2022; 14:905-913. [PMID: 35725774 PMCID: PMC7613264 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-022-00972-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) is a fundamental process in gene expression, and control of translation is important to regulate protein synthesis in cells. The primary hallmark of eukaryotic mRNAs is their 5′ cap, whose molecular contacts to the eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF4E govern the initiation of translation. Here we report 5′ cap analogues with photo-cleavable groups (FlashCaps) that prohibit binding to eIF4E and resist cleavage by decapping enzymes. These compounds are compatible with the general and efficient production of mRNAs by in vitro transcription. In FlashCap-mRNAs, the single photocaging group abrogates translation in vitro and in mammalian cells without increasing immunogenicity. Irradiation restores the native cap, triggering efficient translation. FlashCaps overcome the problem of remaining sequence or structure changes in mRNA after irradiation that limited previous designs. Together, these results demonstrate that FlashCaps offer a route to regulate the expression of any given mRNA and to dose mRNA therapeutics with spatio-temporal control. ![]()
Analogues of mRNA 5′ caps containing a photo-cleavable group have now been developed. These so-called FlashCaps can be used for routine in vitro transcription to make long mRNAs containing a cap. In cells, the capped mRNAs are translationally muted; however, upon irradiation by light, the photo-cleavable group is removed without leaving any remaining modification and mRNA is then translated into the corresponding protein.
Collapse
|
10
|
Wojcik R, Baranowski MR, Markiewicz L, Kubacka D, Bednarczyk M, Baran N, Wojtczak A, Sikorski PJ, Zuberek J, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Novel N7-Arylmethyl Substituted Dinucleotide mRNA 5' cap Analogs: Synthesis and Evaluation as Modulators of Translation. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13111941. [PMID: 34834356 PMCID: PMC8623273 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dinucleotide analogs of the messenger RNA cap (m7GpppN) are useful research tools and have potential applications as translational inhibitors or reagents for modification of in vitro transcribed mRNAs. It has been previously reported that replacing the methyl group at the N7-position with benzyl (Bn) produces a dinucleotide cap with superior properties. Here, we followed up on this finding by synthesizing 17 novel Bn7GpppG analogs and determining their structure-activity relationship regarding translation and translational inhibition. The compounds were prepared in two steps, including selective N7-alkylation of guanosine 5'-monophosphate by arylmethyl bromide followed by coupling with imidazole-activated GDP, with total yields varying from 22% to 62%. The compounds were then evaluated by determining their affinity for eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E), testing their susceptibility to decapping pyrophosphatase, DcpS-which is most likely the major cellular enzyme targeting this type of compound-and determining their translation inhibitory properties in vitro. We also synthesized mRNAs capped with the evaluated compounds and tested their translational properties in A549 cells. Our studies identified N7-(4-halogenbenzyl) substituents as promising modifications in the contexts of either mRNA translation or translational inhibition. Finally, to gain more insight into the consequences at the molecular level of N7-benzylation of the mRNA cap, we determined the crystal structures of three compounds with eIF4E.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw Wojcik
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02097 Warsaw, Poland; (R.W.); (L.M.); (M.B.); (N.B.); (P.J.S.)
| | - Marek R. Baranowski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02093 Warsaw, Poland; (M.R.B.); (D.K.); (A.W.); (J.Z.)
| | - Lukasz Markiewicz
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02097 Warsaw, Poland; (R.W.); (L.M.); (M.B.); (N.B.); (P.J.S.)
| | - Dorota Kubacka
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02093 Warsaw, Poland; (M.R.B.); (D.K.); (A.W.); (J.Z.)
| | - Marcelina Bednarczyk
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02097 Warsaw, Poland; (R.W.); (L.M.); (M.B.); (N.B.); (P.J.S.)
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02093 Warsaw, Poland; (M.R.B.); (D.K.); (A.W.); (J.Z.)
| | - Natalia Baran
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02097 Warsaw, Poland; (R.W.); (L.M.); (M.B.); (N.B.); (P.J.S.)
| | - Anna Wojtczak
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02093 Warsaw, Poland; (M.R.B.); (D.K.); (A.W.); (J.Z.)
| | - Pawel J. Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02097 Warsaw, Poland; (R.W.); (L.M.); (M.B.); (N.B.); (P.J.S.)
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02093 Warsaw, Poland; (M.R.B.); (D.K.); (A.W.); (J.Z.)
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02093 Warsaw, Poland; (M.R.B.); (D.K.); (A.W.); (J.Z.)
- Correspondence: (J.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02097 Warsaw, Poland; (R.W.); (L.M.); (M.B.); (N.B.); (P.J.S.)
- Correspondence: (J.K.); (J.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ortiz-Aguirre JP, Velandia-Vargas EA, Rodríguez-Bohorquez OM, Amaya-Ramírez D, Bernal-Estévez D, Parra-López CA. Inmunoterapia personalizada contra el cáncer basada en neoantígenos. Revisión de la literatura. REVISTA DE LA FACULTAD DE MEDICINA 2021. [DOI: 10.15446/revfacmed.v69n3.81633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introducción. Los avances que se han hecho en inmunoterapia contra el cáncer y la respuesta clínica de los pacientes que han recibido este tipo de terapia la han convertido en el cuarto pilar para el tratamiento del cáncer.
Objetivo. Describir brevemente el fundamento biológico de la inmunoterapia personalizada contra el cáncer basada en neoantígenos, las perspectivas actuales de su desarrollo y algunos resultados clínicos de esta terapia.
Materiales y métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura en PubMed, Scopus y EBSCO utilizando la siguiente estrategia de búsqueda: tipo de artículos: estudios experimentales originales, ensayos clínicos y revisiones narrativas y sistemáticas sobre métodos de identificación de mutaciones generadas en los tumores y estrategias de inmunoterapia del cáncer con vacunas basadas en neoantígenos; población de estudio: humanos y modelos animales; periodo de publicación: enero 1989- diciembre 2019; idioma: inglés y español; términos de búsqueda: “Immunotherapy”, “Neoplasms”, “Mutation” y “Cancer Vaccines”.
Resultados. La búsqueda inicial arrojó 1344 registros; luego de remover duplicados (n=176), 780 fueron excluidos luego de leer su resumen y título, y se evaluó el texto completo de 338 para verificar cuáles cumplían con los criterios de inclusión, seleccionándose finalmente 73 estudios para análisis completo. Todos los artículos recuperados se publicaron en inglés, y fueron realizados principalmente en EE. UU. (43.83%) y Alemania (23.65%). En el caso de los estudios originales (n=43), 20 se realizaron únicamente en humanos, 9 solo en animales, 2 en ambos modelos, y 12 usaron metodología in silico.
Conclusión. La inmunoterapia personalizada contra el cáncer con vacunas basadas en neoantígenos tumorales se está convirtiendo de forma contundente en una nueva alternativa para tratar el cáncer. Sin embargo, para lograr su implementación adecuada, es necesario usarla en combinación con tratamientos convencionales, generar más conocimiento que contribuya a aclarar la inmunobiología del cáncer, y reducir los costos asociados con su producción.
Collapse
|
12
|
BNT162b2 Vaccine Encoding the SARS-CoV-2 P2 S Protects Transgenic hACE2 Mice against COVID-19. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9040324. [PMID: 33915773 PMCID: PMC8066210 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9040324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BNT162b2 is a highly efficacious mRNA vaccine approved to prevent COVID-19. This brief report describes the immunogenicity and anti-viral protective effect of BNT162b2 in hACE2 transgenic mice. Prime-boost immunization with BNT162b2 elicited high titers in neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, which correlated with viral clearance and alleviated lung lesions in these mice after viral challenge.
Collapse
|
13
|
Vogel AB, Kanevsky I, Che Y, Swanson KA, Muik A, Vormehr M, Kranz LM, Walzer KC, Hein S, Güler A, Loschko J, Maddur MS, Ota-Setlik A, Tompkins K, Cole J, Lui BG, Ziegenhals T, Plaschke A, Eisel D, Dany SC, Fesser S, Erbar S, Bates F, Schneider D, Jesionek B, Sänger B, Wallisch AK, Feuchter Y, Junginger H, Krumm SA, Heinen AP, Adams-Quack P, Schlereth J, Schille S, Kröner C, de la Caridad Güimil Garcia R, Hiller T, Fischer L, Sellers RS, Choudhary S, Gonzalez O, Vascotto F, Gutman MR, Fontenot JA, Hall-Ursone S, Brasky K, Griffor MC, Han S, Su AAH, Lees JA, Nedoma NL, Mashalidis EH, Sahasrabudhe PV, Tan CY, Pavliakova D, Singh G, Fontes-Garfias C, Pride M, Scully IL, Ciolino T, Obregon J, Gazi M, Carrion R, Alfson KJ, Kalina WV, Kaushal D, Shi PY, Klamp T, Rosenbaum C, Kuhn AN, Türeci Ö, Dormitzer PR, Jansen KU, Sahin U. BNT162b vaccines protect rhesus macaques from SARS-CoV-2. Nature 2021; 592:283-289. [PMID: 33524990 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03275-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 435] [Impact Index Per Article: 145.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
A safe and effective vaccine against COVID-19 is urgently needed in quantities that are sufficient to immunize large populations. Here we report the preclinical development of two vaccine candidates (BNT162b1 and BNT162b2) that contain nucleoside-modified messenger RNA that encodes immunogens derived from the spike glycoprotein (S) of SARS-CoV-2, formulated in lipid nanoparticles. BNT162b1 encodes a soluble, secreted trimerized receptor-binding domain (known as the RBD-foldon). BNT162b2 encodes the full-length transmembrane S glycoprotein, locked in its prefusion conformation by the substitution of two residues with proline (S(K986P/V987P); hereafter, S(P2) (also known as P2 S)). The flexibly tethered RBDs of the RBD-foldon bind to human ACE2 with high avidity. Approximately 20% of the S(P2) trimers are in the two-RBD 'down', one-RBD 'up' state. In mice, one intramuscular dose of either candidate vaccine elicits a dose-dependent antibody response with high virus-entry inhibition titres and strong T-helper-1 CD4+ and IFNγ+CD8+ T cell responses. Prime-boost vaccination of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) with the BNT162b candidates elicits SARS-CoV-2-neutralizing geometric mean titres that are 8.2-18.2× that of a panel of SARS-CoV-2-convalescent human sera. The vaccine candidates protect macaques against challenge with SARS-CoV-2; in particular, BNT162b2 protects the lower respiratory tract against the presence of viral RNA and shows no evidence of disease enhancement. Both candidates are being evaluated in phase I trials in Germany and the USA1-3, and BNT162b2 is being evaluated in an ongoing global phase II/III trial (NCT04380701 and NCT04368728).
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Aging/immunology
- Animals
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
- Antibodies, Viral/immunology
- Antigens, Viral/chemistry
- Antigens, Viral/genetics
- Antigens, Viral/immunology
- BNT162 Vaccine
- COVID-19/blood
- COVID-19/immunology
- COVID-19/prevention & control
- COVID-19/therapy
- COVID-19/virology
- COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
- COVID-19 Vaccines/chemistry
- COVID-19 Vaccines/genetics
- COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
- Cell Line
- Clinical Trials as Topic
- Disease Models, Animal
- Female
- Humans
- Immunization, Passive
- Internationality
- Macaca mulatta/immunology
- Macaca mulatta/virology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Models, Molecular
- Protein Multimerization
- RNA, Viral/analysis
- Respiratory System/immunology
- Respiratory System/virology
- SARS-CoV-2/chemistry
- SARS-CoV-2/genetics
- SARS-CoV-2/immunology
- Solubility
- Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/chemistry
- Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics
- Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Vaccination
- Vaccines, Synthetic/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Synthetic/chemistry
- Vaccines, Synthetic/genetics
- Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
- COVID-19 Serotherapy
- mRNA Vaccines
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Journey Cole
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Olga Gonzalez
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Fulvia Vascotto
- TRON-Translational Oncology at the University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthew R Gutman
- VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Center, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | | | - Shannan Hall-Ursone
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kathleen Brasky
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Michal Gazi
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Ricardo Carrion
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Deepak Kaushal
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Pei-Yong Shi
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech, Mainz, Germany.
- TRON-Translational Oncology at the University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Schaefer MR. The Regulation of RNA Modification Systems: The Next Frontier in Epitranscriptomics? Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12030345. [PMID: 33652758 PMCID: PMC7996938 DOI: 10.3390/genes12030345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA modifications, long considered to be molecular curiosities embellishing just abundant and non-coding RNAs, have now moved into the focus of both academic and applied research. Dedicated research efforts (epitranscriptomics) aim at deciphering the underlying principles by determining RNA modification landscapes and investigating the molecular mechanisms that establish, interpret and modulate the information potential of RNA beyond the combination of four canonical nucleotides. This has resulted in mapping various epitranscriptomes at high resolution and in cataloguing the effects caused by aberrant RNA modification circuitry. While the scope of the obtained insights has been complex and exciting, most of current epitranscriptomics appears to be stuck in the process of producing data, with very few efforts to disentangle cause from consequence when studying a specific RNA modification system. This article discusses various knowledge gaps in this field with the aim to raise one specific question: how are the enzymes regulated that dynamically install and modify RNA modifications? Furthermore, various technologies will be highlighted whose development and use might allow identifying specific and context-dependent regulators of epitranscriptomic mechanisms. Given the complexity of individual epitranscriptomes, determining their regulatory principles will become crucially important, especially when aiming at modifying specific aspects of an epitranscriptome both for experimental and, potentially, therapeutic purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias R Schaefer
- Centre for Anatomy & Cell Biology, Division of Cell-and Developmental Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Schwarzspanierstrasse 17, Haus C, 1st Floor, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ely A, Singh P, Smith TS, Arbuthnot P. In vitro transcribed mRNA for expression of designer nucleases: Advantages as a novel therapeutic for the management of chronic HBV infection. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 168:134-146. [PMID: 32485207 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a significant worldwide medical problem. While diseases caused by HIV infection, tuberculosis and malaria are on the decline, new cases of chronic hepatitis B are on the rise. Because often fatal complications of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are associated with chronic hepatitis B, the need for a cure is as urgent as ever. Currently licensed therapeutics fail to eradicate the virus and this is attributable to persistence of the viral replication intermediate comprising covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). Elimination or inactivation of the viral cccDNA is thus a goal of research aimed at hepatitis B cure. The ability to engineer nucleases that are capable of specific cleavage of a DNA sequence now provides the means to disable cccDNA permanently. The scientific literature is replete with many examples of using designer zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and RNA-guided endonucleases (RGENs) to inactivate HBV. However, important concerns about safety, dose control and efficient delivery need to be addressed before the technology is employed in a clinical setting. Use of in vitro transcribed mRNA to express therapeutic gene editors goes some way to overcoming these concerns. The labile nature of RNA limits off-target effects and enables dose control. Compatibility with hepatotropic non-viral vectors is convenient for the large scale preparation that will be required for advancing gene editing as a mode of curing chronic hepatitis B.
Collapse
|
16
|
Esprit A, de Mey W, Bahadur Shahi R, Thielemans K, Franceschini L, Breckpot K. Neo-Antigen mRNA Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E776. [PMID: 33353155 PMCID: PMC7766040 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The interest in therapeutic cancer vaccines has caught enormous attention in recent years due to several breakthroughs in cancer research, among which the finding that successful checkpoint blockade treatments reinvigorate neo-antigen-specific T cells and that successful adoptive cell therapies are directed towards neo-antigens. Neo-antigens are cancer-specific antigens, which develop from somatic mutations in the cancer cell genome that can be highly immunogenic and are not subjected to central tolerance. As the majority of neo-antigens are unique to each patient's cancer, a vaccine technology that is flexible and potent is required to develop personalized neo-antigen vaccines. In vitro transcribed mRNA is such a technology platform and has been evaluated for delivery of neo-antigens to professional antigen-presenting cells both ex vivo and in vivo. In addition, strategies that support the activity of T cells in the tumor microenvironment have been developed. These represent a unique opportunity to ensure durable T cell activity upon vaccination. Here, we comprehensively review recent progress in mRNA-based neo-antigen vaccines, summarizing critical milestones that made it possible to bring the promise of therapeutic cancer vaccines within reach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (A.E.); (W.d.M.); (R.B.S.); (K.T.); (L.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hybrid Biopolymer and Lipid Nanoparticles with Improved Transfection Efficacy for mRNA. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092034. [PMID: 32899484 PMCID: PMC7563888 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hybrid nanoparticles from lipidic and polymeric components were assembled to serve as vehicles for the transfection of messenger RNA (mRNA) using different portions of the cationic lipid DOTAP (1,2-Dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane) and the cationic biopolymer protamine as model systems. Two different sequential assembly approaches in comparison with a direct single-step protocol were applied, and molecular organization in correlation with biological activity of the resulting nanoparticle systems was investigated. Differences in the structure of the nanoparticles were revealed by thorough physicochemical characterization including small angle neutron scattering (SANS), small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM). All hybrid systems, combining lipid and polymer, displayed significantly increased transfection in comparison to lipid/mRNA and polymer/mRNA particles alone. For the hybrid nanoparticles, characteristic differences regarding the internal organization, release characteristics, and activity were determined depending on the assembly route. The systems with the highest transfection efficacy were characterized by a heterogenous internal organization, accompanied by facilitated release. Such a system could be best obtained by the single step protocol, starting with a lipid and polymer mixture for nanoparticle formation.
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhang Q, Zhang X, Truskey GA. Vascular Microphysiological Systems to Model Diseases. CELL & GENE THERAPY INSIGHTS 2020; 6:93-102. [PMID: 32431950 PMCID: PMC7236815 DOI: 10.18609/cgti.2020.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Human vascular microphysiological systems (MPS) represent promising three-dimensional in vitro models of normal and diseased vascular tissue. These systems build upon advances in tissue engineering, microfluidics, and stem cell differentiation and replicate key functional units of organs and tissues. Vascular models have been developed for the microvasculature as well as medium-size arterioles. Key functions of the vascular system have been reproduced and stem cells offer the potential to model genetic diseases and population variation in genes that may increase individual risk for cardiovascular disease. Such systems can be used to evaluate new therapeutics options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 1427 CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708-0281, USA
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 1427 CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708-0281, USA
| | - George A. Truskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 1427 CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708-0281, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Panda A, Gurusamy N, Rajasingh S, Carter HK, Thomas EL, Rajasingh J. Non-viral reprogramming and induced pluripotent stem cells for cardiovascular therapy. Differentiation 2020; 112:58-66. [PMID: 31954271 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Despite significant effort devoted to developing new treatments and procedures, cardiac disease is still one of the leading causes of death in the world. The loss of myocytes due to ischemic injury remains a major therapeutic challenge. However, cell-based therapy to repair the injured heart has shown significant promise in basic and translation research and in clinical trials. Embryonic stem cells have been successfully used to improve cardiac outcomes. Unfortunately, treatment with these cells is complicated by ethical and legal issues. Recent progress in developing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using non-viral vectors has made it possible to derive cardiomyocytes for therapy. This review will focus on these non-integration-based approaches for reprogramming and their therapeutic advantages for cardiovascular medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arunima Panda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Narasimman Gurusamy
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sheeja Rajasingh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA; Department of Bioscience Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Hannah-Kaye Carter
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Edwin L Thomas
- Department of Bioscience Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Johnson Rajasingh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA; Department of Bioscience Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tang X, Zhang S, Fu R, Zhang L, Huang K, Peng H, Dai L, Chen Q. Therapeutic Prospects of mRNA-Based Gene Therapy for Glioblastoma. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1208. [PMID: 31781503 PMCID: PMC6857656 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of glioblastoma has been a big challenge for decades in the oncological field mainly owing to its unique biological characteristics, such as high heterogeneity, diffusing invasiveness, and capacity to resist conventional therapies. The mRNA-based therapeutic modality holds many superior features, including easy manipulation, rapid and transient expression, and adaptive convertibility without mutagenesis, which are suitable for dealing with glioblastoma's complexity and variability. Synthetic anticancer mRNAs carried by various vehicles act as the ultimate attackers of the tumor across biological barriers. In this modality, specifically targeted glioblastoma treatment can be guaranteed by adding targeting molecules at certain levels. The choice of mRNA-bearing vehicle and administration method is a fully patient-tailored selection. This review covers the advantages and possible limitations of mRNA-based gene therapy, the in vitro synthesis of mRNA, the feasible methods for synthetic mRNA delivery and clinical therapeutic prospects of mRNA-based gene therapy for glioblastoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong, University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Shenqi Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Fu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Kuanming Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Hao Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Longjun Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China.,Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Qianxue Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Trepotec Z, Geiger J, Plank C, Aneja MK, Rudolph C. Segmented poly(A) tails significantly reduce recombination of plasmid DNA without affecting mRNA translation efficiency or half-life. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2019; 25:507-518. [PMID: 30647100 PMCID: PMC6426288 DOI: 10.1261/rna.069286.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Extensive research in the past decade has brought mRNA closer to the clinical realization of its therapeutic potential. One common structural feature for all cellular messenger RNAs is a poly(A) tail, which can either be brought in cotranscriptionally via the DNA template (plasmid- or PCR-based) or added to the mRNA in a post-transcriptional enzymatic process. Plasmids containing poly(A) regions recombine in E. coli, resulting in extensive shortening of the poly(A) tail. Using a segmented poly(A) approach, we could significantly reduce recombination of plasmids in E. coli without any negative effect on mRNA half-life and protein expression. This effect was independent of the coding sequence. A segmented poly(A) tail is characterized in that it consists of at least two A-containing elements, each defined as a nucleotide sequence consisting of 40-60 adenosines, separated by a spacer element of different length. Furthermore, reducing the spacer length between the poly(A) segments resulted in higher translation efficiencies compared to homogeneous poly(A) tail and reduced recombination (depending upon the choice of spacer nucleotide). Our results demonstrate the superior potential of segmented poly(A) tails compared to the conventionally used homogeneous poly(A) tails with respect to recombination of the plasmids and the resulting mRNA performance (half-life and translational efficiency).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeljka Trepotec
- Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilian-University of Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | | | - Christian Plank
- Ethris GmbH, Planegg, 82152 Planegg, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Immunology and Experimental Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | | | - Carsten Rudolph
- Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilian-University of Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
- Ethris GmbH, Planegg, 82152 Planegg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Siewert C, Haas H, Nawroth T, Ziller A, Nogueira S, Schroer M, Blanchet C, Svergun D, Radulescu A, Bates F, Huesemann Y, Radsak M, Sahin U, Langguth P. Investigation of charge ratio variation in mRNA – DEAE-dextran polyplex delivery systems. Biomaterials 2019; 192:612-620. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
23
|
Connor B, Firmin E, McCaughey-Chapman A, Monk R, Lee K, Liot S, Geiger J, Rudolph C, Jones K. Conversion of adult human fibroblasts into neural precursor cells using chemically modified mRNA. Heliyon 2018; 4:e00918. [PMID: 30450440 PMCID: PMC6226601 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2018.e00918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct reprogramming offers a unique approach by which to generate neural lineages for the study and treatment of neurological disorders. Our objective is to develop a clinically viable reprogramming strategy to generate neural precursor cells for the treatment of neurological disorders through cell replacement therapy. We initially developed a method for directly generating neural precursor cells (iNPs) from adult human fibroblasts by transient expression of the neural transcription factors, SOX2 and PAX6 using plasmid DNA. This study advances these findings by examining the use of chemically modified mRNA (cmRNA) for direct-to-iNP reprogramming. Chemically modified mRNA has the benefit of being extremely stable and non-immunogenic, offering a clinically suitable gene delivery system. The use of SOX2 and PAX6 cmRNA resulted in high co-transfection efficiency and cell viability compared with plasmid transfection. Neural positioning and fate determinant genes were observed throughout reprogramming with ion channel and synaptic marker genes detected during differentiation. Differentiation of cmRNA-derived iNPs generated immature GABAergic or glutamatergic neuronal phenotypes in conjunction with astrocytes. This represents the first time a cmRNA approach has been used to directly reprogram adult human fibroblasts to iNPs, potentially providing an efficient system by which to generate human neurons for both research and clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronwen Connor
- Department of Pharmacology & Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Erin Firmin
- Department of Pharmacology & Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Amy McCaughey-Chapman
- Department of Pharmacology & Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ruth Monk
- Department of Pharmacology & Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kevin Lee
- Department of Physiology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sophie Liot
- Department of Pharmacology & Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | | | - Kathryn Jones
- Department of Pharmacology & Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kocmik I, Piecyk K, Rudzinska M, Niedzwiecka A, Darzynkiewicz E, Grzela R, Jankowska-Anyszka M. Modified ARCA analogs providing enhanced translational properties of capped mRNAs. Cell Cycle 2018; 17:1624-1636. [PMID: 29954234 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2018.1486164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays gene manipulation techniques ("DNA therapy") undergo progressive development and become widely used in industry and medicine. Since new advances in mRNA technologies are capable for obtaining particles with increased stability and translational efficiency, RNA become an attractive alternative for advancement of DNA therapy. For the past years studies have been conducted to explore different modification in mRNA cap structure and its effect on RNA properties. Recently we have shown that modification of the cap structure at the N2 position of 7-methylguanosine leads to an enhancement in translation inhibition. Currently, we have decided to exploit translational properties of mRNA capped with the ARCA (anti-reversed cap) analogs modified within N2 position of purine moiety s. We designed and synthesized three new dinucleotide cap analogs and investigated them in the rabbit reticulocyte lysate (RRL) and the human embryonic kidney derived HEK293 cell line, in vitro translational model systems. The obtained data indicate that, in both translational assays, the cap analogs synthesized by us when incorporated into mRNA improved its translational properties compared to the ARCA capped transcripts. Furthermore, the introduced modifications enhanced stability of the capped transcripts in HEK293 cells, which become higher compared to that of the transcripts capped with regular cap or with ARCA. Additionally one of the synthesized cap analogs revealed strong translation inhibition potency in RRL system, with IC50 value 1.7 µM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Kocmik
- a Faculty of Chemistry , University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Karolina Piecyk
- a Faculty of Chemistry , University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | | | - Anna Niedzwiecka
- c Laboratory of Biological Physics , Institute of Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- b Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland.,d Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Renata Grzela
- b Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rosigkeit S, Meng M, Grunwitz C, Gomes P, Kreft A, Hayduk N, Heck R, Pickert G, Ziegler K, Abassi Y, Röder J, Kaps L, Vascotto F, Beissert T, Witzel S, Kuhn A, Diken M, Schuppan D, Sahin U, Haas H, Bockamp E. Monitoring Translation Activity of mRNA-Loaded Nanoparticles in Mice. Mol Pharm 2018; 15:3909-3919. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.8b00370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Meng
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Andreas Kuhn
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Mustafa Diken
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- TRON gGmbH, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- TRON gGmbH, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Heinrich Haas
- BioNTech RNA Pharmaceuticals GmbH, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Sahin U, Derhovanessian E, Miller M, Kloke BP, Simon P, Löwer M, Bukur V, Tadmor AD, Luxemburger U, Schrörs B, Omokoko T, Vormehr M, Albrecht C, Paruzynski A, Kuhn AN, Buck J, Heesch S, Schreeb KH, Müller F, Ortseifer I, Vogler I, Godehardt E, Attig S, Rae R, Breitkreuz A, Tolliver C, Suchan M, Martic G, Hohberger A, Sorn P, Diekmann J, Ciesla J, Waksmann O, Brück AK, Witt M, Zillgen M, Rothermel A, Kasemann B, Langer D, Bolte S, Diken M, Kreiter S, Nemecek R, Gebhardt C, Grabbe S, Höller C, Utikal J, Huber C, Loquai C, Türeci Ö. Personalized RNA mutanome vaccines mobilize poly-specific therapeutic immunity against cancer. Nature 2017; 547:222-226. [PMID: 28678784 DOI: 10.1038/nature23003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1548] [Impact Index Per Article: 221.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
T cells directed against mutant neo-epitopes drive cancer immunity. However, spontaneous immune recognition of mutations is inefficient. We recently introduced the concept of individualized mutanome vaccines and implemented an RNA-based poly-neo-epitope approach to mobilize immunity against a spectrum of cancer mutations. Here we report the first-in-human application of this concept in melanoma. We set up a process comprising comprehensive identification of individual mutations, computational prediction of neo-epitopes, and design and manufacturing of a vaccine unique for each patient. All patients developed T cell responses against multiple vaccine neo-epitopes at up to high single-digit percentages. Vaccine-induced T cell infiltration and neo-epitope-specific killing of autologous tumour cells were shown in post-vaccination resected metastases from two patients. The cumulative rate of metastatic events was highly significantly reduced after the start of vaccination, resulting in a sustained progression-free survival. Two of the five patients with metastatic disease experienced vaccine-related objective responses. One of these patients had a late relapse owing to outgrowth of β2-microglobulin-deficient melanoma cells as an acquired resistance mechanism. A third patient developed a complete response to vaccination in combination with PD-1 blockade therapy. Our study demonstrates that individual mutations can be exploited, thereby opening a path to personalized immunotherapy for patients with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ugur Sahin
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Evelyna Derhovanessian
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthias Miller
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Björn-Philipp Kloke
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Petra Simon
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin Löwer
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Valesca Bukur
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Arbel D Tadmor
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Ulrich Luxemburger
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Barbara Schrörs
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Tana Omokoko
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Mathias Vormehr
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Albrecht
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Anna Paruzynski
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas N Kuhn
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Janina Buck
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sandra Heesch
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Katharina H Schreeb
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Felicitas Müller
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Inga Ortseifer
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Isabel Vogler
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Eva Godehardt
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sebastian Attig
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Richard Rae
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Andrea Breitkreuz
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Claudia Tolliver
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin Suchan
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Goran Martic
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Alexander Hohberger
- University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Patrick Sorn
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jan Diekmann
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Janko Ciesla
- EUFETS GmbH, Vollmersbachstraße 66, 55743 Idar-Oberstein, Germany
| | - Olga Waksmann
- EUFETS GmbH, Vollmersbachstraße 66, 55743 Idar-Oberstein, Germany
| | - Alexandra-Kemmer Brück
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Meike Witt
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Martina Zillgen
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Andree Rothermel
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Barbara Kasemann
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - David Langer
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefanie Bolte
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Mustafa Diken
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kreiter
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Romina Nemecek
- Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoffer Gebhardt
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,University Medical Center Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68135 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stephan Grabbe
- University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Christoph Höller
- Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jochen Utikal
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,University Medical Center Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68135 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christoph Huber
- Biopharmaceutical New Technologies (BioNTech) Corporation, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Carmen Loquai
- University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Özlem Türeci
- CI3 - Cluster for Individualized Immunointervention e.V, Hölderlinstraße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Warminski M, Sikorski PJ, Warminska Z, Lukaszewicz M, Kropiwnicka A, Zuberek J, Darzynkiewicz E, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Amino-Functionalized 5' Cap Analogs as Tools for Site-Specific Sequence-Independent Labeling of mRNA. Bioconjug Chem 2017; 28:1978-1992. [PMID: 28613834 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.7b00291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
mRNA is a template for protein biosynthesis, and consequently mRNA transport, translation, and turnover are key elements in the overall regulation of gene expression. Along with growing interest in the mechanisms regulating mRNA decay and localization, there is an increasing need for tools enabling convenient fluorescent labeling or affinity tagging of mRNA. We report new mRNA 5' cap analog-based tools that enable site-specific labeling of RNA within the cap using N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) chemistry. We explored two complementary methods: a co-transcriptional labeling method, in which the label is first attached to a cap analog and then incorporated into RNA by in vitro transcription, and a post-transcriptional labeling method, in which an amino-functionalized cap analog is incorporated into RNA followed by chemical labeling of the resulting transcript. After testing the biochemical properties of RNAs carrying the novel modified cap structures, we demonstrated the utility of fluorescently labeled RNAs in decapping assays, RNA decay assays, and RNA visualization in cells. Finally, we also demonstrated that mRNAs labeled by the reported method are translationally active. We envisage that the novel analogs will provide an alternative to radiolabeling of mRNA caps for in vitro studies and open possibilities for new applications related to the study of mRNA fates in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw , 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zofia Warminska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw , 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.,College of Interfaculty Individual Studies of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw , 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Kropiwnicka
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , 02-093, Warsaw, Poland.,Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw , 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw , 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw , 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Walczak S, Nowicka A, Kubacka D, Fac K, Wanat P, Mroczek S, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. A novel route for preparing 5' cap mimics and capped RNAs: phosphate-modified cap analogues obtained via click chemistry. Chem Sci 2017; 8:260-267. [PMID: 28451173 PMCID: PMC5355871 DOI: 10.1039/c6sc02437h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant biological role of the mRNA 5' cap in translation initiation makes it an interesting subject for chemical modifications aimed at producing useful tools for the selective modulation of intercellular processes and development of novel therapeutic interventions. However, traditional approaches to the chemical synthesis of cap analogues are time-consuming and labour-intensive, which impedes the development of novel compounds and their applications. Here, we explore a different approach for synthesizing 5' cap mimics, making use of click chemistry (CuAAC) to combine two mononucleotide units and yield a novel class of dinucleotide cap analogues containing a triazole ring within the oligophosphate chain. As a result, we synthesized a library of 36 mRNA cap analogues differing in the location of the triazole ring, the polyphosphate chain length, and the type of linkers joining the phosphate and the triazole moieties. After biochemical evaluation, we identified two analogues that, when incorporated into mRNA, produced transcripts translated with efficiency similar to compounds unmodified in the oligophosphate bridge obtained by traditional synthesis. Moreover, we demonstrated that the triazole-modified cap structures can be generated at the RNA 5' end using two alternative capping strategies: either the typical co-transcriptional approach, or a new post-transcriptional approach based on CuAAC. Our findings open new possibilities for developing chemically modified mRNAs for research and therapeutic applications, including RNA-based vaccinations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Walczak
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Anna Nowicka
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Dorota Kubacka
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Kaja Fac
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Przemyslaw Wanat
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Seweryn Mroczek
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology , Faculty of Biology , University of Warsaw , 02-106 Warsaw , Poland
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics , Polish Academy of Sciences , 02-106 Warsaw , Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics , Institute of Experimental Physics , Faculty of Physics , University of Warsaw , Zwirki i Wigury 93 , 02-089 , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies , University of Warsaw , Banacha 2c , 02-097 , Warsaw , Poland .
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Steinle H, Behring A, Schlensak C, Wendel HP, Avci-Adali M. Concise Review: Application of In Vitro Transcribed Messenger RNA for Cellular Engineering and Reprogramming: Progress and Challenges. Stem Cells 2016; 35:68-79. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.2402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heidrun Steinle
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery; University Hospital Tuebingen; Calwerstraße 7/1 Tuebingen 72076 Germany
| | - Andreas Behring
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery; University Hospital Tuebingen; Calwerstraße 7/1 Tuebingen 72076 Germany
| | - Christian Schlensak
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery; University Hospital Tuebingen; Calwerstraße 7/1 Tuebingen 72076 Germany
| | - Hans Peter Wendel
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery; University Hospital Tuebingen; Calwerstraße 7/1 Tuebingen 72076 Germany
| | - Meltem Avci-Adali
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery; University Hospital Tuebingen; Calwerstraße 7/1 Tuebingen 72076 Germany
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ziemniak M, Mugridge JS, Kowalska J, Rhoads RE, Gross JD, Jemielity J. Two-headed tetraphosphate cap analogs are inhibitors of the Dcp1/2 RNA decapping complex. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 22:518-29. [PMID: 26826132 PMCID: PMC4793208 DOI: 10.1261/rna.055152.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Dcp1/2 is the major eukaryotic RNA decapping complex, comprised of the enzyme Dcp2 and activator Dcp1, which removes the 5' m(7)G cap from mRNA, committing the transcript to degradation. Dcp1/2 activity is crucial for RNA quality control and turnover, and deregulation of these processes may lead to disease development. The molecular details of Dcp1/2 catalysis remain elusive, in part because both cap substrate (m(7)GpppN) and m(7)GDP product are bound by Dcp1/2 with weak (mM) affinity. In order to find inhibitors to use in elucidating the catalytic mechanism of Dcp2, we screened a small library of synthetic m(7)G nucleotides (cap analogs) bearing modifications in the oligophosphate chain. One of the most potent cap analogs, m(7)GpSpppSm(7)G, inhibited Dcp1/2 20 times more efficiently than m(7)GpppN or m(7)GDP. NMR experiments revealed that the compound interacts with specific surfaces of both regulatory and catalytic domains of Dcp2 with submillimolar affinities. Kinetics analysis revealed that m(7)GpSpppSm(7)G is a mixed inhibitor that competes for the Dcp2 active site with micromolar affinity. m(7)GpSpppSm(7)G-capped RNA undergoes rapid decapping, suggesting that the compound may act as a tightly bound cap mimic. Our identification of the first small molecule inhibitor of Dcp2 should be instrumental in future studies aimed at understanding the structural basis of RNA decapping and may provide insight toward the development of novel therapeutically relevant decapping inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Ziemniak
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jeffrey S Mugridge
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert E Rhoads
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, Louisiana 71130-3932, USA
| | - John D Gross
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kowalska J, Martin F, Jemielity J. Synthetic Capped mRNAs for Cap-Specific Photo-Cross-Linking Experiments. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1428:31-43. [PMID: 27236790 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3625-0_2] [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] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The 7-methylguanosine triphosphate cap present at the 5' ends of eukaryotic mRNAs plays numerous roles in mRNA expression and metabolism. The identification and studies on cap-binding partners can be significantly advanced using tailored chemical tools such as synthetic cap analogues or RNAs carrying modified cap structures. Here we provide protocols for the production of mRNAs specifically labeled within the 5' cap with a nucleoside capable of being photo-activated, either 6-thioguanosine or 7-methyl-6-thioguanosine, which can be used in photo-cross-linking experiments to identify or characterize cap-binding biomolecules. We also describe a protocol for the cross-linking experiments with capped RNAs to map histone H4 cap-binding pocket.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, Warsaw, 02-089, Poland
| | - Franck Martin
- Architecture et Réactivité de l'ARN, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, Institut de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 15 rue René Descartes, 67084, Strasbourg CEDEX, France.
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Center of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has recently emerged with remarkable potential as an effective alternative to DNA-based therapies because of several unique advantages. mRNA does not require nuclear entry for transfection activity and has a negligible chance of integrating into the host genome which excludes the possibility of potentially detrimental genomic alternations. Chemical modification of mRNA has further enhanced its stability and decreased its activation of innate immune responses. Additionally, mRNA has been found to have rapid expression and predictable kinetics. Nevertheless, the ubiquitous application of mRNA remains challenging given its unfavorable attributes, such as large size, negative charge and susceptibility to enzymatic degradation. Further refinement of mRNA delivery modalities is therefore essential for its development as a therapeutic tool. This review provides an exclusive overview of current state-of-the-art biomaterials and nanotechnology platforms for mRNA delivery, and discusses future prospects to bring these exciting technologies into clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ariful Islam
- Laboratory for Nanoengineering & Drug Delivery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ziemniak M, Kowalska J, Lukaszewicz M, Zuberek J, Wnek K, Darzynkiewicz E, Jemielity J. Phosphate-modified analogues of m(7)GTP and m(7)Gppppm(7)G-Synthesis and biochemical properties. Bioorg Med Chem 2015; 23:5369-81. [PMID: 26264844 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2015.07.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis and biochemical properties of 17 new mRNA cap analogues are reported. Six of these nucleotides are m(7)GTP derivatives, whereas 11 are 'two headed' tetraphosphate dinucleotides based on a m(7)Gppppm(7)G structure. The compounds contain either a boranophosphate or phosphorothioate moiety in the nucleoside neighbouring position(s) and some of them possess an additional methylene group between β and γ phosphorus atoms. The compounds were prepared by divalent metal chloride-mediated coupling of an appropriate m(7)GMP analogue with a given P(1),P(2)-di(1-imidazolyl) derivative. The analogues were evaluated as tools for studying cap-dependent processes in a number of biochemical assays, including determination of affinity to eukaryotic initiation factor eIF4E, susceptibility to enzymatic hydrolysis, and translational efficiency in vitro. The results indicate that modification in the phosphate chain can increase binding to cap-interacting proteins and provides higher resistance to degradation. Furthermore, modified derivatives of m(7)GTP were found to be potent inhibitors of cap-dependent translation in cell free systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Ziemniak
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Wnek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland; Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Rahn J, Hoffmann D, Harder TC, Beer M. Vaccines against influenza A viruses in poultry and swine: Status and future developments. Vaccine 2015; 33:2414-24. [PMID: 25835575 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.03.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 03/01/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Influenza A viruses are important pathogens with a very broad host spectrum including domestic poultry and swine. For preventing clinical disease and controlling the spread, vaccination is one of the most efficient tools. Classical influenza vaccines for domestic poultry and swine are conventional inactivated preparations. However, a very broad range of novel vaccine types ranging from (i) nucleic acid-based vaccines, (ii) replicon particles, (iii) subunits and virus-like particles, (iv) vectored vaccines, or (v) live-attenuated vaccines has been described, and some of them are now also used in the field. The different novel approaches for vaccines against avian and swine influenza virus infections are reviewed, and additional features like universal vaccines, novel application approaches and the "differentiating infected from vaccinated animals" (DIVA)-strategy are summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Rahn
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - D Hoffmann
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - T C Harder
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - M Beer
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Use of mRNA-based vaccines for tumour immunotherapy has gained increasing attention in recent years. A growing number of studies applying nanomedicine concepts to mRNA tumour vaccination show that the mRNA delivered in nanoparticle format can generate a more robust immune response. Advances in the past decade have deepened our understanding of gene delivery barriers, mRNA's biological stability and immunological properties, and support the notion for engineering innovations tailored towards a more efficient mRNA nanoparticle vaccine delivery system. In this review we will first examine the suitability of mRNA for engineering manipulations, followed by discussion of a model framework that highlights the barriers to a robust anti-tumour immunity mediated by mRNA encapsulated in nanoparticles. Finally, by consolidating existing literature on mRNA nanoparticle tumour vaccination within the context of this framework, we aim to identify bottlenecks that can be addressed by future nanoengineering research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyle K L Phua
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Quabius ES, Krupp G. Synthetic mRNAs for manipulating cellular phenotypes: an overview. N Biotechnol 2014; 32:229-35. [PMID: 24816460 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2014.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Revised: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Availability of high quality synthetic mRNAs (syn-mRNAs) has enabled progress in their applications. Important structural features and quality requirements are discussed. Developments in the application of mRNA-mediated manipulation of cells are presented (i) mRNA-directed expression of antigens in dendritic cells for vaccination projects in oncogenesis, infectious disease and allergy prevention; (ii) reprogramming of human fibroblasts to induced pluripotent stem cells with their subsequent differentiation to the desired cell type; (iii) applications in gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elgar Susanne Quabius
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Building 27, D-24105 Kiel, Germany; Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Building 17, D-24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Guido Krupp
- AmpTec GmbH, Königstr. 4A, 22767 Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kramps T, Probst J. Messenger RNA-based vaccines: progress, challenges, applications. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2013; 4:737-49. [PMID: 23893949 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Twenty years after the demonstration that messenger RNA (mRNA) was expressed and immunogenic upon direct injection in mice, the first successful proof-of-concept of specific protection against viral infection in small and large animals was reported. These data indicate wider applicability to infectious disease and should encourage continued translation of mRNA-based prophylactic vaccines into human clinical trials. At the conceptual level, mRNA-based vaccines-more than other genetic vectors-combine the simplicity, safety, and focused immunogenicity of subunit vaccines with favorable immunological properties of live viral vaccines: (1) mRNA vaccines are molecularly defined and carry no excess information. In the environment and upon physical contact, RNA is rapidly degraded by ubiquitous RNases and cannot persist. These characteristics also guarantee tight control over their immunogenic profile (including avoidance of vector-specific immune responses that could interfere with repeated administration), pharmacokinetics, and dosing. (2) mRNA vaccines are synthetically produced by an enzymatic process, just requiring information about the nucleic acid sequence of the desired antigen. This greatly reduces general complications associated with biological vaccine production, such as handling of infectious agents, genetic variability, environmental risks, or restrictions to vaccine distribution. (3) RNA can be tailored to provide potent adjuvant stimuli to the innate immune system by direct activation of RNA-specific receptors; this may reduce the need for additional adjuvants. The formation of native antigen in situ affords great versatility, including intracellular localization, membrane association, posttranslational modification, supra-molecular assembly, or targeted structural optimization of delivered antigen. Messenger RNA vaccines induce balanced immune responses including B cells, helper T cells, and cytotoxic T lymphocytes, rendering them an extremely adaptable platform. This article surveys the design, mode of action, and capabilities of state-of-the-art mRNA vaccines, focusing on the paradigm of influenza prophylaxis.
Collapse
|
38
|
Bernal JA. RNA-based tools for nuclear reprogramming and lineage-conversion: towards clinical applications. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2013; 6:956-68. [PMID: 23852582 PMCID: PMC3838600 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-013-9494-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is well established. Safety concerns remain, however, and these have driven considerable efforts aimed at avoiding host genome alteration during the reprogramming process. At present, the tools used to generate human iPSCs include (1) DNA-based integrative and non-integrative methods and (2) DNA-free reprogramming technologies, including RNA-based approaches. Because of their combined efficiency and safety characteristics, RNA-based methods have emerged as the most promising tool for future iPSC-based regenerative medicine applications. Here, I will discuss novel recent advances in reprogramming technology, especially those utilizing the Sendai virus (SeV) and synthetic modified mRNA. In the future, these technologies may find utility in iPSC reprogramming for cellular lineage-conversion, and its subsequent use in cell-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan A Bernal
- Cardiovascular Development and Repair Department, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain,
| |
Collapse
|