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Sartori-Maldonado R, Montaser H, Soppa I, Eurola S, Juutila J, Balaz M, Puttonen H, Otonkoski T, Saarimäki-Vire J, Wartiovaara K. Thymidylate synthase disruption to limit cell proliferation in cell therapies. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2535-2548. [PMID: 38867450 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Stem and progenitor cells hold great promise for regenerative medicine and gene therapy approaches. However, transplantation of living cells entails a fundamental risk of unwanted growth, potentially exacerbated by CRISPR-Cas9 or other genetic manipulations. Here, we describe a safety system to control cell proliferation while allowing robust and efficient cell manufacture, without any added genetic elements. Inactivating TYMS, a key nucleotide metabolism enzyme, in several cell lines resulted in cells that proliferate only when supplemented with exogenous thymidine. Under supplementation, TYMS-/--pluripotent stem cells proliferate, produce teratomas, and successfully differentiate into potentially therapeutic cell types such as pancreatic β cells. Our results suggest that supplementation with exogenous thymidine affects stem cell proliferation, but not the function of stem cell-derived cells. After differentiation, postmitotic cells do not require thymidine in vitro or in vivo, as shown by the production of functional human insulin in mice up to 5 months after implantation of stem cell-derived pancreatic tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio Sartori-Maldonado
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hossam Montaser
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Inkeri Soppa
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Solja Eurola
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juhana Juutila
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Melanie Balaz
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Henri Puttonen
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Timo Otonkoski
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland; Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jonna Saarimäki-Vire
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kirmo Wartiovaara
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290 Helsinki, Finland; Clinical Genetics, Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland.
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Kulyabin M, Zhdanov A, Maier A, Loh L, Estevez JJ, Constable PA. Generating Synthetic Light-Adapted Electroretinogram Waveforms Using Artificial Intelligence to Improve Classification of Retinal Conditions in Under-Represented Populations. J Ophthalmol 2024; 2024:1990419. [PMID: 39045382 PMCID: PMC11265936 DOI: 10.1155/2024/1990419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Visual electrophysiology is often used clinically to determine the functional changes associated with retinal or neurological conditions. The full-field flash electroretinogram (ERG) assesses the global contribution of the outer and inner retinal layers initiated by the rods and cone pathways depending on the state of retinal adaptation. Within clinical centers, reference normative data are used to compare clinical cases that may be rare or underpowered within a specific demographic. To bolster either the reference dataset or the case dataset, the application of synthetic ERG waveforms may offer benefits to disease classification and case-control studies. In this study and as a proof of concept, artificial intelligence (AI) to generate synthetic signals using generative adversarial networks is deployed to upscale male participants within an ISCEV reference dataset containing 68 participants, with waveforms from the right and left eye. Random forest classifiers further improved classification for sex within the group from a balanced accuracy of 0.72-0.83 with the added synthetic male waveforms. This is the first study to demonstrate the generation of synthetic ERG waveforms to improve machine learning classification modelling with electroretinogram waveforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Kulyabin
- Pattern Recognition LabDepartment of Computer ScienceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aleksei Zhdanov
- Engineering School of Information TechnologiesTelecommunications and Control SystemsUral Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Andreas Maier
- Pattern Recognition LabDepartment of Computer ScienceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lynne Loh
- Flinders UniversityCollege of Nursing and Health SciencesCaring Futures Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jose J. Estevez
- Flinders UniversityCollege of Nursing and Health SciencesCaring Futures Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Paul A. Constable
- Flinders UniversityCollege of Nursing and Health SciencesCaring Futures Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Lutsyk K, Gicquel T, Cortial L, Forget S, Braun S, Boyer PO, Laugel V, Blin O. Does gene therapies clinical research in rare diseases reflects the competitivity of the country: Example of France. Therapie 2024:S0040-5957(24)00028-3. [PMID: 38458946 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2024.01.007] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Rare diseases are chronic, serious and generally genetic conditions affecting a small number of people, and their therapeutic management is a real challenge. They represent a considerable burden for patients, caregivers and society alike. Compared with existing symptomatic treatments, gene therapies represent a promising new approach aimed at treating these diseases by replacing a defective gene, or by abolishing or reviving a gene-derived function. France is considered one of the leading countries in the research and development of drugs for rare diseases, yet the position of French public and private stakeholders in the research and development of gene therapies for rare diseases at global and European level remains unclear. To answer this question, we used the GENOTRIAL FR database developed by OrphanDev to clarify France's involvement and competitiveness in this field. The results show that France is actively involved in gene therapy clinical trials, with a dense international collaboration network and solid expertise. However, the French medical infrastructure is mainly involved in clinical research on gene therapy candidates sponsored by several foreign countries. To a lesser extent, French public and private entities are also developing their own gene therapy candidates for various rare diseases, some of which have already reached advanced clinical phases. In conclusion, a number of technical and financial challenges need to be overcome if France is to maintain its position as a European and world leader and increase its contribution to reducing the economic and social burden of rare diseases by developing revolutionary and effective new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karyna Lutsyk
- Pharmacologie clinique et pharmacosurveillance, Aix Marseille University, OrphanDev, UMR1106, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Tristan Gicquel
- Pharmacologie clinique et pharmacosurveillance, Aix Marseille University, OrphanDev, UMR1106, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Lucas Cortial
- Pharmacologie clinique et pharmacosurveillance, Aix Marseille University, OrphanDev, UMR1106, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 13005 Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Olivier Blin
- Pharmacologie clinique et pharmacosurveillance, Aix Marseille University, OrphanDev, UMR1106, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 13005 Marseille, France.
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4
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Kilgore R, Minzoni A, Shastry S, Smith W, Barbieri E, Wu Y, LeBarre JP, Chu W, O'Brien J, Menegatti S. The downstream bioprocess toolbox for therapeutic viral vectors. J Chromatogr A 2023; 1709:464337. [PMID: 37722177 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464337] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Viral vectors are poised to acquire a prominent position in modern medicine and biotechnology owing to their role as delivery agents for gene therapies, oncolytic agents, vaccine platforms, and a gateway to engineer cell therapies as well as plants and animals for sustainable agriculture. The success of viral vectors will critically depend on the availability of flexible and affordable biomanufacturing strategies that can meet the growing demand by clinics and biotech companies worldwide. In this context, a key role will be played by downstream process technology: while initially adapted from protein purification media, the purification toolbox for viral vectors is currently undergoing a rapid expansion to fit the unique biomolecular characteristics of these products. Innovation efforts are articulated on two fronts, namely (i) the discovery of affinity ligands that target adeno-associated virus, lentivirus, adenovirus, etc.; (ii) the development of adsorbents with innovative morphologies, such as membranes and 3D printed monoliths, that fit the size of viral vectors. Complementing these efforts are the design of novel process layouts that capitalize on novel ligands and adsorbents to ensure high yield and purity of the product while safeguarding its therapeutic efficacy and safety; and a growing panel of analytical methods that monitor the complex array of critical quality attributes of viral vectors and correlate them to the purification strategies. To help explore this complex and evolving environment, this study presents a comprehensive overview of the downstream bioprocess toolbox for viral vectors established in the last decade, and discusses present efforts and future directions contributing to the success of this promising class of biological medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Kilgore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States.
| | - Arianna Minzoni
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Shriarjun Shastry
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States; Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Will Smith
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Eduardo Barbieri
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Yuxuan Wu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Jacob P LeBarre
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Wenning Chu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Juliana O'Brien
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Stefano Menegatti
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States; Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States; North Carolina Viral Vector Initiative in Research and Learning, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
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5
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Bateman-House A, Shah LD, Escandon R, McFadyen A, Hunt C. Somatic Gene Therapy Research in Pediatric Populations: Ethical Issues and Guidance for Operationalizing Early Phase Trials. Pharmaceut Med 2023; 37:17-24. [PMID: 36527677 DOI: 10.1007/s40290-022-00451-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Currently, pediatric research involving investigational gene therapies (GT, used without intending to imply a therapeutic effect) targets a broad range of indications (including rare and ultra-rare diseases) that vary in severity and availability of approved disease-modifying therapies. Because of this diversity of circumstances, there is no one-size-fits-all list of ethical concerns relevant to all uses of investigational GTs in children. Here, we review the main ethical issues, specifically those surrounding the current state of knowledge about GT product-related immunogenicity, toxicity, duration, irreversibility, informed consent/assent, trial design (including the question of who 'goes first'), participant and caregiver burdens, and equity in diagnosis and access to research opportunities. Ethical issues that can be anticipated to arise in pediatric GT clinical trials, e.g., the uncertainty and risk of this research, the resultant preclusion of GT trial participants from other research, the length of follow-up monitoring, and the urgency often felt by caregivers dealing with dire, rapidly progressive conditions, should be proactively identified, addressed in accordance with existing best practices, and transparently discussed among all stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Bateman-House
- Division of Medical Ethics, Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Lesha D Shah
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Cara Hunt
- Division of Medical Ethics, Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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6
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Bolous NS, Bhatt N, Bhakta N, Neufeld EJ, Davidoff AM, Reiss UM. Gene Therapy and Hemophilia: Where Do We Go from Here? J Blood Med 2022; 13:559-580. [PMID: 36226233 PMCID: PMC9550170 DOI: 10.2147/jbm.s371438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy for hemophilia using adeno-associated virus (AAV) derived vectors can reduce or eliminate patients' disease-related complications and improve their quality of life. Broad implementation globally will lead to societal gains and foster health equity. Several vector products each for factor IX (FIX) or factor VIII (FVIII) deficiency are in advanced clinical development. Safety data are reassuring. Efficacy data for up to 8 and 5 years, respectively, vary considerably among vector types and among individuals, but indicate significant reduction in bleeds and factor use. Products will soon be approved for marketing. This review highlights the relevant considerations for implementation of hemophilia gene therapy, specifically across a broad range of socioeconomic backgrounds globally, based on recent publications and our own experience. We address the current efficacy and safety data and relevant aspects of vector immunology. We then discuss pertinent implementation steps including pre-implementation and readiness assessments, considerations on cost, cost-effectiveness and payment models, approaches to education and informed consent, and the operational needs as well as the need for monitoring of health outcomes and implementation outcomes. To prevent a lag or complete lack of establishing access to this life-changing therapy option for all patients with hemophilia worldwide, adaptable pathways supported by collaborative and international efforts of all stakeholders are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy S Bolous
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA,Correspondence: Nancy S Bolous, Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Mail Stop 721, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA, Tel +1 901 595 1968, Fax +1 901 595 5319, Email
| | - Nidhi Bhatt
- Department of Hematology – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Nickhill Bhakta
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ellis J Neufeld
- Department of Hematology – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Andrew M Davidoff
- Department of Surgery – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ulrike M Reiss
- Department of Hematology – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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7
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Freitag PC, Brandl F, Brücher D, Weiss F, Dreier B, Plückthun A. Modular Adapters Utilizing Binders of Different Molecular Types Expand Cell-Targeting Options for Adenovirus Gene Delivery. Bioconjug Chem 2022; 33:1595-1601. [PMID: 35944553 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.2c00346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Efficient and cell-specific delivery of DNA is essential for the effective and safe use of gene delivery technologies. Consequently, a large variety of technologies have been developed and applied in a wide range of ex vivo and in vivo applications, including multiple approaches based on viral vectors. However, widespread success of a technology is largely determined by the versatility of the method and the ease of use. The rationally designed adapter technology previously developed redirects widely used human adenovirus serotype 5 (HAdV-C5) to a defined cell population, by binding and blocking the adenoviral knob tropism while simultaneously allowing fusions of an N-terminal retargeting module. Here we expand modularity, and thus applicability of this adapter technology, by extending the nature of the cell-binding portion. We report successful receptor-specific transduction mediated by a retargeting module consisting of either a DARPin, a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) of an antibody, a peptide, or a small molecule ligand. Furthermore, we show that an adapter can be engineered to carry more than one specificity, allowing dual targeting. Specific HAdV-C5 retargeting was thus demonstrated to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), human folate receptor α, and neurotensin receptor 1, effective at vector concentrations as low as a multiplicity of infection of 2.5. Therefore, we report a modular design which allows plug-and-play combinations of different binding modules, leading to efficient and specific mono- or dual-targeting while circumventing tedious optimization procedures. This extends the technology to combinational applications of cell-specific binding, supporting research in gene therapy, synthetic biology, and biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick C Freitag
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Brandl
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Brücher
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Weiss
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Birgit Dreier
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Plückthun
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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8
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Maldonado R, Jalil S, Keskinen T, Nieminen AI, Hyvönen ME, Lapatto R, Wartiovaara K. CRISPR correction of the Finnish ornithine delta-aminotransferase mutation restores metabolic homeostasis in iPSC from patients with gyrate atrophy. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2022; 31:100863. [PMID: 35782600 PMCID: PMC9248217 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2022.100863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperornithinemia with gyrate atrophy of the choroid and retina (HOGA) is a severe recessive inherited disease, causing muscular degeneration and retinochoroidal atrophy that progresses to blindness. HOGA arises from mutations in the ornithine aminotransferase (OAT) gene, and nearly one-third of the known patients worldwide are homozygous for the Finnish founder mutation OAT c.1205 T > C p.(Leu402Pro). We have corrected this loss-of-function OAT mutation in patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using CRISPR/Cas9. The correction restored OAT expression in stem cells and normalized the elevated ornithine levels in cell lysates and cell media. These results show an efficient recovery of OAT function in iPSC, encouraging the possibility of autologous cell therapy for the HOGA disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio Maldonado
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sami Jalil
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Timo Keskinen
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anni I. Nieminen
- Metabolomics Unit, Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mervi E. Hyvönen
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Risto Lapatto
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kirmo Wartiovaara
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Clinical Genetics, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Corresponding author at: Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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9
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Braga LAM, Conte Filho CG, Mota FB. Future of genetic therapies for rare genetic diseases: what to expect for the next 15 years? THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN RARE DISEASE 2022; 3:26330040221100840. [PMID: 37180410 PMCID: PMC10032453 DOI: 10.1177/26330040221100840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Rare genetic diseases affect millions of people worldwide. Most of them are caused by defective genes that impair quality of life and can lead to premature death. As genetic therapies aim to fix or replace defective genes, they are considered the most promising treatment for rare genetic diseases. Yet, as these therapies are still under development, it is still unclear whether they will be successful in treating these diseases. This study aims to address this gap by assessing researchers' opinions on the future of genetic therapies for the treatment of rare genetic diseases. Methods We conducted a global cross-sectional web-based survey of researchers who recently authored peer-reviewed articles related to rare genetic diseases. Results We assessed the opinions of 1430 researchers with high and good knowledge about genetic therapies for the treatment of rare genetic diseases. Overall, the respondents believed that genetic therapies would be the standard of care for rare genetic diseases before 2036, leading to cures after this period. CRISPR-Cas9 was considered the most likely approach to fixing or replacing defective genes in the next 15 years. The respondents with good knowledge believed that genetic therapies would only have long-lasting effects after 2036, while those with high knowledge were divided on this issue. The respondents with good knowledge on the subject believed that non-viral vectors are more likely to be successful in fixing or replacing defective genes in the next 15 years, while most of the respondents with high knowledge believed viral vectors would be more successful. Conclusion Overall, the researchers who participated in this study expect that in the future genetic therapies will greatly benefit the treatment of patients with rare genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fabio Batista Mota
- Laboratory of Cellular Communication, Oswaldo
Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Av. Brasil, 4.365, Pavilhão 108,
Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro RJ 21040-360, Brazil
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Leer K, Cinar G, Solomun JI, Martin L, Nischang I, Traeger A. Core-crosslinked, temperature- and pH-responsive micelles: design, physicochemical characterization, and gene delivery application. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:19412-19429. [PMID: 34591061 DOI: 10.1039/d1nr04223h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive block copolymer micelles can provide tailored properties for the efficient delivery of genetic material. In particular, temperature- and pH-responsive materials are of interest, since their physicochemical properties can be easily tailored to meet the requirements for successful gene delivery. Within this study, a stimuli-responsive micelle system for gene delivery was designed based on a diblock copolymer consisting of poly(N,N-diethylacrylamide) (PDEAm) as a temperature-responsive segment combined with poly(aminoethyl acrylamide) (PAEAm) as a pH-responsive, cationic segment. Upon temperature increase, the PDEAm block becomes hydrophobic due to its lower critical solution temperature (LCST), leading to micelle formation. Furthermore, the monomer 2-(pyridin-2-yldisulfanyl)ethyl acrylate (PDSAc) was incorporated into the temperature-responsive PDEAm building block enabling disulfide crosslinking of the formed micelle core to stabilize its structure regardless of temperature and dilution. The cloud points of the PDEAm block and the diblock copolymer were investigated by turbidimetry and fluorescence spectroscopy. The temperature-dependent formation of micelles was analyzed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and elucidated in detail by an analytical ultracentrifuge (AUC), which provided detailed insights into the solution dynamics between polymers and assembled micelles as a function of temperature. Finally, the micelles were investigated for their applicability as gene delivery vectors by evaluation of cytotoxicity, pDNA binding, and transfection efficiency using HEK293T cells. The investigations showed that core-crosslinking resulted in a 13-fold increase in observed transfection efficiency. Our study presents a comprehensive investigation from polymer synthesis to an in-depth physicochemical characterization and biological application of a crosslinked micelle system including stimuli-responsive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Leer
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
- Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Gizem Cinar
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
- Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Jana I Solomun
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
- Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Liam Martin
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
- Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Ivo Nischang
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
- Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Anja Traeger
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
- Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
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11
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A clinical, histopathological, and molecular study of two cases of VEXAS syndrome without a definitive myeloid neoplasm. Blood Adv 2021; 6:405-409. [PMID: 34649277 PMCID: PMC8791569 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2021005243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
VEXAS (vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X- linked, autoinflammatory, somatic) syndrome is caused by somatic mutations in UBA1 and is identified using a genotype-driven method. This condition connects unrelated men with adult-onset inflammatory syndromes in association with hematologic manifestations of peripheral cytopenia and bone marrow myeloid dysplasia. While bone marrow vacuolization restricted to myeloid and erythroid precursors has been identified in VEXAS patients, the detailed clinical and histopathological features of peripheral blood and bone marrows remain unclear. The current case report describes the characteristic hematologic findings in patients with VEXAS, including macrocytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, marked hypercellular marrow with granulocytic hyperplasia, megaloblastic changes in erythroid precursors, and the absence of hematogones in addition to prominent vacuoles in myeloid and erythroid precursor cells. Characterizing the clinical and hematologic features helps to raise awareness and improve diagnosis of this novel, rare, but potentially under-recognized disease. Prompt diagnosis expands the general knowledgeable and understanding of this disease, and optimal management might prevent patients from developing complications related to this refractory inflammatory syndrome and improve the overall clinical outcome.
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12
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Pochopień M, Qiu T, Aballea S, Clay E, Toumi M. Considering potential solutions for limitations and challenges in the health economic evaluation of gene therapies. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2021; 21:1145-1158. [PMID: 34407704 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2021.1969229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The limited evidence in the clinical trials of gene therapies (GTs) posed substantial challenges for a reliable health technology assessment (HTA). This paper provides insights into the relationship between the background of diseases and the health economics assessment of GTs.Areas covered: The impacts of differentiated severity and unmet needs of genetic diseases, on the economic analysis of GTs, were discussed.Expert opinion: GTs offer a potential cure or significant clinical improvement, while limitations in clinical evidence constitute major obstacles for a robust assessment of clinical effectiveness and economic outcomes. This uncertainty may be balanced by the severity of the targeted condition and the associated unmet needs, thus leading to a relatively higher acceptance for GTs. Overtime, HTA agencies will become more demanding on comprehensive evidence of long-term effectiveness. With a growing number of GTs on the horizon, to what extent the unmet needs of previously devastating diseases will be fulfilled remain unclear. Nonetheless, comparative studies, either with a historical control group or existing treatments, will be necessary to demonstrate the additional benefits associated with GTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Pochopień
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Department of health economics and outcomes research, Creativ-Ceutical, Kraków, Poland
| | - Tingting Qiu
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Samuel Aballea
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Clay
- Department of health economics and outcomes research, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
| | - Mondher Toumi
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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Tumiene B, Kristoffersson U, Hedley V, Kääriäinen H. Rare diseases: past achievements and future prospects. J Community Genet 2021; 12:205-206. [PMID: 33945116 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-021-00529-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Birute Tumiene
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania. .,Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Ulf Kristoffersson
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Laboratory Medicine (U.K.), Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Victoria Hedley
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Newcastle University, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Helena Kääriäinen
- Genomics and Biomarkers Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
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