1
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McGee JE, Kirsch JR, Kenney D, Cerbo F, Chavez EC, Shih TY, Douam F, Wong WW, Grinstaff MW. Complete substitution with modified nucleotides in self-amplifying RNA suppresses the interferon response and increases potency. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-024-02306-z. [PMID: 38977924 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02306-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The use of modified nucleotides to suppress the interferon response and maintain translation of self-amplifying RNA (saRNA), which has been achieved for mRNA, has not yet succeeded. We identify modified nucleotides that, when substituted at 100% in saRNA, confer innate immune evasion and robust long-term protein expression, and when formulated as a vaccine, protect against lethal SARS-CoV-2 challenge in mice. This discovery advances saRNA therapeutics by enabling prolonged protein expression at low doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua E McGee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jack R Kirsch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Devin Kenney
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Faith Cerbo
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Chavez
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ting-Yu Shih
- Department of Chemistry, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Florian Douam
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Wilson W Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
- Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Mark W Grinstaff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
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2
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Androsavich JR. Frameworks for transformational breakthroughs in RNA-based medicines. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:421-444. [PMID: 38740953 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00943-2] [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: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
RNA has sparked a revolution in modern medicine, with the potential to transform the way we treat diseases. Recent regulatory approvals, hundreds of new clinical trials, the emergence of CRISPR gene editing, and the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines in dramatic response to the COVID-19 pandemic have converged to create tremendous momentum and expectation. However, challenges with this relatively new class of drugs persist and require specialized knowledge and expertise to overcome. This Review explores shared strategies for developing RNA drug platforms, including layering technologies, addressing common biases and identifying gaps in understanding. It discusses the potential of RNA-based therapeutics to transform medicine, as well as the challenges associated with improving applicability, efficacy and safety profiles. Insights gained from RNA modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNAs are used to identify important next steps for mRNA and gene editing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Androsavich
- RNA Accelerator, Pfizer Inc, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Ginkgo Bioworks, Boston, MA, USA.
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3
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Song J, Zhang Y, Zhou C, Zhan J, Cheng X, Huang H, Mao S, Zong Z. The dawn of a new Era: mRNA vaccines in colorectal cancer immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112037. [PMID: 38599100 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a typical cancer that accounts for 10% of all new cancer cases annually and nearly 10% of all cancer deaths. Despite significant progress in current classical interventions for CRC, these traditional strategies could be invasive and with numerous adverse effects. The poor prognosis of CRC patients highlights the evident and pressing need for more efficient and targeted treatment. Novel strategies regarding mRNA vaccines for anti-tumor therapy have also been well-developed since the successful application for the prevention of COVID-19. mRNA vaccine technology won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, signaling a new direction in human anti-cancer treatment: mRNA medicine. As a promising new immunotherapy in CRC and other multiple cancer treatments, the mRNA vaccine has higher specificity, better efficacy, and fewer side effects than traditional strategies. The present review outlines the basics of mRNA vaccines and their advantages over other vaccines and informs an available strategy for developing efficient mRNA vaccines for CRC precise treatment. In the future, more exploration of mRNA vaccines for CRC shall be attached, fostering innovation to address existing limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yujun Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; Huankui Academy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chulin Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jianhao Zhan
- Huankui Academy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xifu Cheng
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Haoyu Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shengxun Mao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Zhen Zong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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4
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Di Francesco V, Chua AJ, Huang D, D'Souza A, Yang A, Bleier BS, Amiji MM. RNA therapies for CNS diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115283. [PMID: 38494152 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115283] [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: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Neurological disorders are a diverse group of conditions that pose an increasing health burden worldwide. There is a general lack of effective therapies due to multiple reasons, of which a key obstacle is the presence of the blood-brain barrier, which limits drug delivery to the central nervous system, and generally restricts the pool of candidate drugs to small, lipophilic molecules. However, in many cases, these are unable to target key pathways in the pathogenesis of neurological disorders. As a group, RNA therapies have shown tremendous promise in treating various conditions because they offer unique opportunities for specific targeting by leveraging Watson-Crick base pairing systems, opening up possibilities to modulate pathological mechanisms that previously could not be addressed by small molecules or antibody-protein interactions. This potential paradigm shift in disease management has been enabled by recent advances in synthesizing, purifying, and delivering RNA. This review explores the use of RNA-based therapies specifically for central nervous system disorders, where we highlight the inherent limitations of RNA therapy and present strategies to augment the effectiveness of RNA therapeutics, including physical, chemical, and biological methods. We then describe translational challenges to the widespread use of RNA therapies and close with a consideration of future prospects in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Francesco
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 140 The Fenway Building, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Andy J Chua
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 140 The Fenway Building, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Sengkang General Hospital, 110 Sengkang E Way, 544886, Singapore
| | - Di Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 140 The Fenway Building, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anisha D'Souza
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 140 The Fenway Building, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Alicia Yang
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Benjamin S Bleier
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Mansoor M Amiji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 140 The Fenway Building, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 140 The Fenway Building, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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5
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Popova PG, Lagace MA, Tang G, Blakney AK. Effect of in vitro transcription conditions on yield of high quality messenger and self-amplifying RNA. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 198:114247. [PMID: 38462138 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114247] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) and self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 produced using in vitro transcription (IVT) were clinically approved in 2020 and 2022, respectively. While the industrial production of mRNA using IVT has been extensively optimized, the optimal conditions for saRNA have been explored to a lesser extent. Most T7 polymerase IVT protocols have been specifically optimized for mRNA which is ∼5-10-fold smaller than saRNA and may have profound effects on both the quality and yield of longer transcripts. Here, we optimized IVT conditions for simultaneously increasing the yield of full-length transcripts and reducing dsRNA formation through Design of Experiments. Using a definitive screening approach, we found that the key parameters are temperature and magnesium in the outcome of RNA quality (% full length transcript) and yield in small scale synthesis. The most important parameter for reducing dsRNA formation for both mRNA and saRNA was Mg2+ concentration (10 mM). We observed that a lower temperature was vital for production of high quality saRNA transcripts. mRNA quality was optimal at higher Mg2+ concentration (>40 mM). High quality transcripts correspond to significantly reduced product yield for saRNA, but not for mRNA. The differences between mRNA and saRNA requirements for high quality product and the relationship between high quality large saRNA molecules and low temperature synthesis have not been reported previously. These findings are key for informing future IVT parameters design and optimization for smaller and larger RNA transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petya G Popova
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Melissa A Lagace
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - George Tang
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anna K Blakney
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Canada.
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6
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Berdecka D, De Smedt SC, De Vos WH, Braeckmans K. Non-viral delivery of RNA for therapeutic T cell engineering. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115215. [PMID: 38401848 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115215] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Adoptive T cell transfer has shown great success in treating blood cancers, resulting in a growing number of FDA-approved therapies using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells. However, the effectiveness of this treatment for solid tumors is still not satisfactory, emphasizing the need for improved T cell engineering strategies and combination approaches. Currently, CAR T cells are mainly manufactured using gammaretroviral and lentiviral vectors due to their high transduction efficiency. However, there are concerns about their safety, the high cost of producing them in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), regulatory obstacles, and limited cargo capacity, which limit the broader use of engineered T cell therapies. To overcome these limitations, researchers have explored non-viral approaches, such as membrane permeabilization and carrier-mediated methods, as more versatile and sustainable alternatives for next-generation T cell engineering. Non-viral delivery methods can be designed to transport a wide range of molecules, including RNA, which allows for more controlled and safe modulation of T cell phenotype and function. In this review, we provide an overview of non-viral RNA delivery in adoptive T cell therapy. We first define the different types of RNA therapeutics, highlighting recent advancements in manufacturing for their therapeutic use. We then discuss the challenges associated with achieving effective RNA delivery in T cells. Next, we provide an overview of current and emerging technologies for delivering RNA into T cells. Finally, we discuss ongoing preclinical and clinical studies involving RNA-modified T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Berdecka
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Winnok H De Vos
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Kevin Braeckmans
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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7
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Feng S, Rcheulishvili N, Jiang X, Zhu P, Pan X, Wei M, Wang PG, Ji Y, Papukashvili D. A review on Gaucher disease: therapeutic potential of β-glucocerebrosidase-targeted mRNA/saRNA approach. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:2111-2129. [PMID: 38617529 PMCID: PMC11008270 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.87741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Gaucher disease (GD), a rare hereditary lysosomal storage disorder, occurs due to a deficiency in the enzyme β-glucocerebrosidase (GCase). This deficiency leads to the buildup of substrate glucosylceramide (GlcCer) in macrophages, eventually resulting in various complications. Among its three types, GD2 is particularly severe with neurological involvements. Current treatments, such as enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), are not effective for GD2 and GD3 due to their inability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Other treatment approaches, such as gene or chaperone therapies are still in experimental stages. Additionally, GD treatments are costly and can have certain side effects. The successful use of messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines for COVID-19 in 2020 has sparked interest in nucleic acid-based therapies. Remarkably, mRNA technology also offers a novel approach for protein replacement purposes. Additionally, self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) technology shows promise, potentially producing more protein at lower doses. This review aims to explore the potential of a cost-effective mRNA/saRNA-based approach for GD therapy. The use of GCase-mRNA/saRNA as a protein replacement therapy could offer a new and promising direction for improving the quality of life and extending the lifespan of individuals with GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunping Feng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Nino Rcheulishvili
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | | | - Pan Zhu
- Cheerland Biomedicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuehua Pan
- Shenzhen Pengbo Biotech Co. Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | - Meilan Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Peng George Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Yang Ji
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Dimitri Papukashvili
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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8
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Vanluchene H, Gillon O, Peynshaert K, De Smedt SC, Sanders N, Raemdonck K, Remaut K. Less is more: Self-amplifying mRNA becomes self-killing upon dose escalation in immune-competent retinal cells. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 196:114204. [PMID: 38302048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
In the last few years, mRNA therapeutics experienced a new wave of interest as therapy for retinal diseases. Nevertheless, despite the widespread use of mRNA vaccines in the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA delivery to the eye is still in its infancy. Recently, our research group has demonstrated that after subretinal and intravitreal delivery of modified mRNA, the number of transfected retinal cells and protein expression per cell remains limited. In this study, we aimed to tackle this limitation by using self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA), which in theory will increase the duration and level of protein expression when only a few mRNA molecules reach their target cells. A one-on-one comparison between modified mRNA and saRNA in two immune-competent human retinal cell types, including Müller cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells, and in immune-deficient BHK-21 cells revealed that saRNA delivery induced an innate immune response blocking its own translation above a certain dose threshold. Removal of double-stranded (ds)RNA byproducts by cellulose-based purification and addition of the innate immune inhibitor B18R remarkably improved translation from saRNA through a reduction in innate immune response. Taken together, when saRNA is applied for retinal disease, the dose should be controlled and measures should be taken to limit immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Vanluchene
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Oriane Gillon
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen Peynshaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Niek Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
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9
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Shi Y, Zhen X, Zhang Y, Li Y, Koo S, Saiding Q, Kong N, Liu G, Chen W, Tao W. Chemically Modified Platforms for Better RNA Therapeutics. Chem Rev 2024; 124:929-1033. [PMID: 38284616 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
RNA-based therapies have catalyzed a revolutionary transformation in the biomedical landscape, offering unprecedented potential in disease prevention and treatment. However, despite their remarkable achievements, these therapies encounter substantial challenges including low stability, susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, and a prominent negative charge, thereby hindering further development. Chemically modified platforms have emerged as a strategic innovation, focusing on precise alterations either on the RNA moieties or their associated delivery vectors. This comprehensive review delves into these platforms, underscoring their significance in augmenting the performance and translational prospects of RNA-based therapeutics. It encompasses an in-depth analysis of various chemically modified delivery platforms that have been instrumental in propelling RNA therapeutics toward clinical utility. Moreover, the review scrutinizes the rationale behind diverse chemical modification techniques aiming at optimizing the therapeutic efficacy of RNA molecules, thereby facilitating robust disease management. Recent empirical studies corroborating the efficacy enhancement of RNA therapeutics through chemical modifications are highlighted. Conclusively, we offer profound insights into the transformative impact of chemical modifications on RNA drugs and delineates prospective trajectories for their future development and clinical integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesi Shi
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xueyan Zhen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yongjiang Li
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Seyoung Koo
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Qimanguli Saiding
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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10
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Chan A, Tsourkas A. Intracellular Protein Delivery: Approaches, Challenges, and Clinical Applications. BME FRONTIERS 2024; 5:0035. [PMID: 38282957 PMCID: PMC10809898 DOI: 10.34133/bmef.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein biologics are powerful therapeutic agents with diverse inhibitory and enzymatic functions. However, their clinical use has been limited to extracellular applications due to their inability to cross plasma membranes. Overcoming this physiological barrier would unlock the potential of protein drugs for the treatment of many intractable diseases. In this review, we highlight progress made toward achieving cytosolic delivery of recombinant proteins. We start by first considering intracellular protein delivery as a drug modality compared to existing Food and Drug Administration-approved drug modalities. Then, we summarize strategies that have been reported to achieve protein internalization. These techniques can be broadly classified into 3 categories: physical methods, direct protein engineering, and nanocarrier-mediated delivery. Finally, we highlight existing challenges for cytosolic protein delivery and offer an outlook for future advances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Tsourkas
- Department of Bioengineering,
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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11
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Imani S, Tagit O, Pichon C. Neoantigen vaccine nanoformulations based on Chemically synthesized minimal mRNA (CmRNA): small molecules, big impact. NPJ Vaccines 2024; 9:14. [PMID: 38238340 PMCID: PMC10796345 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-024-00807-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, chemically synthesized minimal mRNA (CmRNA) has emerged as a promising alternative to in vitro transcribed mRNA (IVT-mRNA) for cancer therapy and immunotherapy. CmRNA lacking the untranslated regions and polyadenylation exhibits enhanced stability and efficiency. Encapsulation of CmRNA within lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPPs) offers an effective approach for personalized neoantigen mRNA vaccines with improved control over tumor growth. LPP-based delivery systems provide superior pharmacokinetics, stability, and lower toxicity compared to viral vectors, naked mRNA, or lipid nanoparticles that are commonly used for mRNA delivery. Precise customization of LPPs in terms of size, surface charge, and composition allows for optimized cellular uptake, target specificity, and immune stimulation. CmRNA-encoded neo-antigens demonstrate high translational efficiency, enabling immune recognition by CD8+ T cells upon processing and presentation. This perspective highlights the potential benefits, challenges, and future directions of CmRNA neoantigen vaccines in cancer therapy compared to Circular RNAs and IVT-mRNA. Further research is needed to optimize vaccine design, delivery, and safety assessment in clinical trials. Nevertheless, personalized LPP-CmRNA vaccines hold great potential for advancing cancer immunotherapy, paving the way for personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saber Imani
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Oya Tagit
- Institute of Chemistry and Bioanalytics, School of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Center of Molecular Biophysics, CNRS, Orléans, France.
- ART-ARNm, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm) and University of Orléans, Orléans, France.
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France.
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12
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Meulewaeter S, Zhang Y, Wadhwa A, Fox K, Lentacker I, Harder KW, Cullis PR, De Smedt SC, Cheng MHY, Verbeke R. Considerations on the Design of Lipid-based mRNA Vaccines Against Cancer. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168385. [PMID: 38065276 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168385] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the last decades, mRNA vaccines have been developed as a cancer immunotherapeutic and the technology recently gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent promising results obtained from clinical trials investigating lipid-based mRNA vaccines in cancer therapy further highlighted the potential of this therapy. Interestingly, while the technologies being used in authorized mRNA vaccines for the prevention of COVID-19 are relatively similar, mRNA vaccines in clinical development for cancer vaccination show marked differences in mRNA modification, lipid carrier, and administration route. In this review, we describe findings on how these factors can impact the potency of mRNA vaccines in cancer therapy and provide insights into the complex interplay between them. We discuss how lipid carrier composition can affect passive targeting to immune cells to improve the efficacy and safety of mRNA vaccines. Finally, we summarize strategies that are established or still being explored to improve the efficacy of mRNA cancer vaccines and include next-generation vaccines that are on the horizon in clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Meulewaeter
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Yao Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Abishek Wadhwa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Kevin Fox
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Kenneth W Harder
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Pieter R Cullis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Miffy H Y Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
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13
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Guterres A, Filho PNS, Moura-Neto V. Breaking Barriers: A Future Perspective on Glioblastoma Therapy with mRNA-Based Immunotherapies and Oncolytic Viruses. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:61. [PMID: 38250874 PMCID: PMC10818651 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010061] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of mRNA-based immunotherapies that leverage the genomes of oncolytic viruses holds significant promise in addressing glioblastoma (GBM), an exceptionally aggressive neurological tumor. We explore the significance of mRNA-based platforms in the area of immunotherapy, introducing an innovative approach to mitigate the risks associated with the use of live viruses in cancer treatment. The ability to customize oncolytic virus genome sequences enables researchers to precisely target specific cancer cells, either through viral genome segments containing structural proteins or through a combination of regions with oncolytic potential. This strategy may enhance treatment effectiveness while minimizing unintended impacts on non-cancerous cells. A notable case highlighted here pertains to advanced findings regarding the application of the Zika virus (ZIKV) in GBM treatment. ZIKV, a member of the family Flaviviridae, shows oncolytic properties against GBM, opening novel therapeutic avenues. We explore intensive investigations of glioblastoma stem cells, recognized as key drivers in GBM initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy. However, a comprehensive elucidation of ZIKV's underlying mechanisms is imperative to pave the way for ZIKV-based clinical trials targeting GBM patients. This investigation into harnessing the potential of oncolytic-virus genomes for mRNA-based immunotherapies underscores its noteworthy implications, potentially paving the way for a paradigm shift in cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandro Guterres
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses e Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Imunológica, Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Vice-Diretoria de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Bio-Manguinhos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Vivaldo Moura-Neto
- Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Rio de Janeiro 20231-092, RJ, Brazil; (P.N.S.F.)
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, RJ, Brazil
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14
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Zhang H, Vandesompele J, Braeckmans K, De Smedt SC, Remaut K. Nucleic acid degradation as barrier to gene delivery: a guide to understand and overcome nuclease activity. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:317-360. [PMID: 38073448 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00194f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy is on its way to revolutionize the treatment of both inherited and acquired diseases, by transferring nucleic acids to correct a disease-causing gene in the target cells of patients. In the fight against infectious diseases, mRNA-based therapeutics have proven to be a viable strategy in the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Although a growing number of gene therapies have been approved, the success rate is limited when compared to the large number of preclinical and clinical trials that have been/are being performed. In this review, we highlight some of the hurdles which gene therapies encounter after administration into the human body, with a focus on nucleic acid degradation by nucleases that are extremely abundant in mammalian organs, biological fluids as well as in subcellular compartments. We overview the available strategies to reduce the biodegradation of gene therapeutics after administration, including chemical modifications of the nucleic acids, encapsulation into vectors and co-administration with nuclease inhibitors and discuss which strategies are applied for clinically approved nucleic acid therapeutics. In the final part, we discuss the currently available methods and techniques to qualify and quantify the integrity of nucleic acids, with their own strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heyang Zhang
- Laboratory for General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jo Vandesompele
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kevin Braeckmans
- Laboratory for General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Centre for Nano- and Biophotonics, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Laboratory for General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Centre for Nano- and Biophotonics, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Laboratory for General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
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15
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Chen W, Zhu Y, He J, Sun X. Path towards mRNA delivery for cancer immunotherapy from bench to bedside. Theranostics 2024; 14:96-115. [PMID: 38164145 PMCID: PMC10750210 DOI: 10.7150/thno.89247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. mRNA vaccines, in particular, offer an alternative approach to conventional vaccines, boasting high potency, rapid development capabilities, cost-effectiveness, and safe administration. However, the clinical application of mRNA vaccines is hindered by the challenges of mRNA instability and inefficient in vivo delivery. In recent times, remarkable technological advancements have emerged to address these challenges, utilizing two main approaches: ex vivo transfection of dendritic cells (DCs) with mRNA and direct injection of mRNA-based therapeutics, either with or without a carrier. This review offers a comprehensive overview of major non-viral vectors employed for mRNA vaccine delivery. It showcases notable preclinical and clinical studies in the field of cancer immunotherapy and discusses important considerations for advancing these promising vaccine platforms for broader therapeutic applications. Additionally, we provide insights into future possibilities and the remaining challenges in mRNA delivery technology, emphasizing the significance of ongoing research in mRNA-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfei Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yining Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Jinhan He
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Metabolic Diseases and Pharmacotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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16
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Delehedde C, Ciganek I, Laroui N, Rameix N, Perche F, Pichon C. Messenger RNA Lipid-Based Nanoparticles: Optimization of Formulations in the Lab. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2786:255-287. [PMID: 38814399 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3770-8_12] [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
Among the large variety of messenger RNA (mRNA) delivery systems, those developed with lipid-based formulations were the most widely used and efficient. In our lab, we produced different mRNA formulations made with liposomes, hybrid lipid polymer, and lipid nanoparticles. Our formulations were made with lipids bearing imidazole groups that trigger the endosomal escape of nanoparticles once protonated inside the mild acidic milieu of endosomes upon their cell uptake. Herein, we describe protocols that we used to produce, optimize, and characterize those formulations. The transfection efficiency is influenced by various factors including the physicochemical parameters of the nanoparticles, their efficiency to be internalized in cells, and their intracellular routing as well as their capacity to induce immune system sensors. We provide details on how to quantify the amount of mRNA nanoparticles uptake by cells and evaluate the acidity of the intracellular compartments where they are located, to investigate the endosomal escape, and to assess the activation of innate immune sensors as phosphorylation of PKR hampering mRNA translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Delehedde
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR01, Orléans, France
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Ivan Ciganek
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR01, Orléans, France
- Inserm, ART-ARNm Inserm US55, Orléans, France
| | - Nabila Laroui
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR01, Orléans, France
- Inserm, ART-ARNm Inserm US55, Orléans, France
| | - Nathalie Rameix
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Federico Perche
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR01, Orléans, France
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR01, Orléans, France.
- Orléans University, Château de la Source, Orleans, France.
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France.
- Inserm, ART-ARNm Inserm US55, Orléans, France.
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17
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Delehedde C, Ciganek I, Rameix N, Laroui N, Gonçalves C, Even L, Midoux P, Pichon C. Impact of net charge, targeting ligand amount and mRNA modification on the uptake, intracellular routing and the transfection efficiency of mRNA lipopolyplexes in dendritic cells. Int J Pharm 2023; 647:123531. [PMID: 37863445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123531] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Targeting mRNA formulations to achieve cell specificity is one of the challenges that must be tackled to mettle their therapeutic potential. Here, lipopolyplexes (LPR) bearing tri-mannose-lipid (TM) are used to target mannose receptor on dendritic cells. We investigated the impact of the net charge and percentage of TM units on the binding, uptake, transfection efficiency (TE) and RNA sensors activation. Binding and uptake capacities of naked and targeted LPR increase with the percent of cationic lipid, but the latter are 2-fold more up taken by the cells. Cationic LPR bearing 5 % and 10 % TM were localized in acidic compartments in contrast to naked LPR and 2.5 % TM-LPR. The drawback is the dramatic decrease of TE as the number of TM-units increases. Cationic LPR bearing 5 % and 10 % TM strongly induced NF-κB and PKR phosphorylation at 6 h. Conversely, mTOR is less activated in line with their low TE. Those side effects are overcome by using 5-methoxyuridine mRNA resulting in an improved TE due to non-phosphorylation of NF-κB and PKR and mTOR activation. Our results point out that targeting DC via mannose receptor triggers a higher uptake of cationic LPRs and fast routing to acidic compartments, and that efficient TE requires low number of TM units use or modified mRNA to escape RNA sensors activation to enhance the translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Delehedde
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, F-45071, Orléans cedex 02, France; Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Ivan Ciganek
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, F-45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | - Nathalie Rameix
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Nabila Laroui
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, F-45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | - Cristine Gonçalves
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, F-45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | - Luc Even
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Patrick Midoux
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, F-45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, F-45071, Orléans cedex 02, France; Inserm UMS 55 ART ARNm and University of Orléans, F-45100 Orléans; Institut Universitaire de France, 1 rue Descartes, F-75035 Paris, France.
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18
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Lima ES, dos Santos D, Souza AL, Macedo ME, Bandeira ME, Junior SSS, Fiuza BSD, Rocha VPC, dos Santos Fonseca LM, Nunes DDG, Hodel KVS, Machado BAS. RNA Combined with Nanoformulation to Advance Therapeutic Technologies. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1634. [PMID: 38139761 PMCID: PMC10745936 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid-based therapies have the potential to address numerous diseases that pose significant challenges to more traditional methods. RNA-based therapies have emerged as a promising avenue, utilizing nanoformulation treatments to target a range of pathologies. Nanoformulation offers several advantages compared to other treatment modalities, including targeted delivery, low toxicity, and bioactivity suitable for drug loading. At present, various types of nanoformulations are available, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), magnetic NPs, nanoshells, and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). RNA-based therapy utilizes intracellular gene nanoparticles with messenger RNA (mRNA) emerging prominently in cancer therapy and immunotechnology against infectious diseases. The approval of mRNA-based technology opens doors for future technological advancements, particularly self-amplifying replicon RNA (repRNA). RepRNA is a novel platform in gene therapy, comprising viral RNA with a unique molecular property that enables the amplification of all encoded genetic information countless times. As a result, repRNA-based therapies have achieved significant levels of gene expression. In this context, the primary objective of this study is to furnish a comprehensive review of repRNA and its applications in nanoformulation treatments, with a specific focus on encapsulated nanoparticles. The overarching goal is to provide an extensive overview of the use of repRNA in conjunction with nanoformulations across a range of treatments and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bruna Aparecida Souza Machado
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC (Integrated Manufacturing and Technology Campus), Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (E.S.L.); (D.d.S.); (A.L.S.); (M.E.M.); (M.E.B.); (S.S.S.J.); (B.S.D.F.); (V.P.C.R.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (D.D.G.N.); (K.V.S.H.)
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19
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Huang P, Deng H, Wang C, Zhou Y, Chen X. Cellular Trafficking of Nanotechnology-Mediated mRNA Delivery. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2307822. [PMID: 37929780 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapy has emerged as a powerful, safe, and rapidly scalable therapeutic approach that involves technologies for both mRNA itself and the delivery vehicle. Although there are some unique challenges for different applications of mRNA therapy, a common challenge for all mRNA therapeutics is the transport of mRNA into the target cell cytoplasm for sufficient protein expression. This review is focused on the behaviors at the cellular level of nanotechnology-mediated mRNA delivery systems, which have not been comprehensively reviewed yet. First, the four main therapeutic applications of mRNA are introduced, including immunotherapy, protein replacement therapy, genome editing, and cellular reprogramming. Second, common types of mRNA cargos and mRNA delivery systems are summarized. Third, strategies to enhance mRNA delivery efficiency during the cellular trafficking process are highlighted, including accumulation to the cell, internalization into the cell, endosomal escape, release of mRNA from the nanocarrier, and translation of mRNA into protein. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for the development of nanotechnology-mediated mRNA delivery systems are presented. This review can provide new insights into the future fabrication of mRNA nanocarriers with desirable cellular trafficking performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Huang
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hongzhang Deng
- School of Life Science and Technology and Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Ministry of Education, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
| | - Changrong Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology and Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Ministry of Education, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
| | - Yongfeng Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
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20
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Casmil IC, Huang C, Blakney AK. A duplex droplet digital PCR assay for absolute quantification and characterization of long self-amplifying RNA. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19050. [PMID: 37923834 PMCID: PMC10624827 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46314-6] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-amplifying messenger ribonucleic acid (saRNA) provides extended expression of genes of interest by encoding an alphavirus-derived RNA replicase and thus is 2-3 times larger than conventional messenger RNA. However, quality assessment of long RNA transcripts is challenging using standard techniques. Here, we utilized a multiplex droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to assess the quality of saRNA produced from an in vitro transcription reaction and the replication kinetics in human cell lines. Using the one-step reverse transcription ddPCR, we show that an in vitro transcription generates 50-60% full-length saRNA transcripts. However, we note that the two-step reverse transcription ddPCR assay results in a 20% decrease from results obtained using the one-step and confirmed using capillary gel electrophoresis. Additionally, we provided three formulas that differ in the level of stringency and assumptions made to calculate the fraction of intact saRNA. Using ddPCR, we also showed that subgenomic transcripts of saRNA were 19-to-108-fold higher than genomic transcripts at different hours post-transfection of mammalian cells in copies. Therefore, we demonstrate that multiplex ddPCR is well suited for quality assessment of long RNA and replication kinetics of saRNA based on absolute quantification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irafasha C Casmil
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Cynthia Huang
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Anna K Blakney
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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21
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Muslimov A, Tereshchenko V, Shevyrev D, Rogova A, Lepik K, Reshetnikov V, Ivanov R. The Dual Role of the Innate Immune System in the Effectiveness of mRNA Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14820. [PMID: 37834268 PMCID: PMC10573212 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914820] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in molecular biology have revolutionized the use of messenger RNA (mRNA) as a therapeutic. The concept of nucleic acid therapy with mRNA originated in 1990 when Wolff et al. reported successful expression of proteins in target organs by direct injection of either plasmid DNA or mRNA. It took decades to bring the transfection efficiency of mRNA closer to that of DNA. The next few decades were dedicated to turning in vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNA from a promising delivery tool for gene therapy into a full-blown therapeutic modality, which changed the biotech market rapidly. Hundreds of clinical trials are currently underway using mRNA for prophylaxis and therapy of infectious diseases and cancers, in regenerative medicine, and genome editing. The potential of IVT mRNA to induce an innate immune response favors its use for vaccination and immunotherapy. Nonetheless, in non-immunotherapy applications, the intrinsic immunostimulatory activity of mRNA directly hinders the desired therapeutic effect since it can seriously impair the target protein expression. Targeting the same innate immune factors can increase the effectiveness of mRNA therapeutics for some indications and decrease it for others, and vice versa. The review aims to present the innate immunity-related 'barriers' or 'springboards' that may affect the development of immunotherapies and non-immunotherapy applications of mRNA medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Muslimov
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
- Laboratory of Nano- and Microencapsulation of Biologically Active Substances, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Polytechnicheskaya 29, 195251 St. Petersburg, Russia;
- RM Gorbacheva Research Institute, Pavlov University, L’va Tolstogo 6-8, 197022 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Valeriy Tereshchenko
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
| | - Daniil Shevyrev
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
| | - Anna Rogova
- Laboratory of Nano- and Microencapsulation of Biologically Active Substances, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Polytechnicheskaya 29, 195251 St. Petersburg, Russia;
- Saint-Petersburg Chemical-Pharmaceutical University, Professora Popova 14, 197376 St. Petersburg, Russia
- School of Physics and Engineering, ITMO University, Lomonosova 9, 191002 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kirill Lepik
- RM Gorbacheva Research Institute, Pavlov University, L’va Tolstogo 6-8, 197022 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Vasiliy Reshetnikov
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Roman Ivanov
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
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22
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McGee JE, Kirsch JR, Kenney D, Chavez E, Shih TY, Douam F, Wong WW, Grinstaff MW. Complete substitution with modified nucleotides suppresses the early interferon response and increases the potency of self-amplifying RNA. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.15.557994. [PMID: 37745375 PMCID: PMC10516017 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.15.557994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) will revolutionize vaccines and in situ therapeutics by enabling protein expression for longer duration at lower doses. However, a major barrier to saRNA efficacy is the potent early interferon response triggered upon cellular entry, resulting in saRNA degradation and translational inhibition. Substitution of mRNA with modified nucleotides (modNTPs), such as N1-methylpseudouridine (N1mΨ), reduce the interferon response and enhance expression levels. Multiple attempts to use modNTPs in saRNA have been unsuccessful, leading to the conclusion that modNTPs are incompatible with saRNA, thus hindering further development. Here, contrary to the common dogma in the field, we identify multiple modNTPs that when incorporated into saRNA at 100% substitution confer immune evasion and enhance expression potency. Transfection efficiency enhances by roughly an order of magnitude in difficult to transfect cell types compared to unmodified saRNA, and interferon production reduces by >8 fold compared to unmodified saRNA in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Furthermore, we demonstrate expression of viral antigens in vitro and observe significant protection against lethal challenge with a mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 strain in vivo . A modified saRNA vaccine, at 100-fold lower dose than a modified mRNA vaccine, results in a statistically improved performance to unmodified saRNA and statistically equivalent performance to modified mRNA. This discovery considerably broadens the potential scope of self-amplifying RNA, enabling entry into previously impossible cell types, as well as the potential to apply saRNA technology to non-vaccine modalities such as cell therapy and protein replacement.
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23
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Yu MZ, Wang NN, Zhu JQ, Lin YX. The clinical progress and challenges of mRNA vaccines. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1894. [PMID: 37096256 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Owing to the breakthroughs in the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic, messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional vaccine approaches for infectious disease prevention and anticancer treatments. Advantages of mRNA vaccines include flexibility in designing and manipulating antigens of interest, scalability in rapid response to new variants, ability to induce both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses, and ease of industrialization. This review article presents the latest advances and innovations in mRNA-based vaccines and their clinical translations in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases or cancers. We also highlight various nanoparticle delivery platforms that contribute to their success in clinical translation. Current challenges related to mRNA immunogenicity, stability, and in vivo delivery and the strategies for addressing them are also discussed. Finally, we provide our perspectives on future considerations and opportunities for applying mRNA vaccines to fight against major infectious diseases and cancers. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Lipid-Based Structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Zhen Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan-Nan Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Qing Zhu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao-Xin Lin
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, People's Republic of China
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24
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Coll De Peña A, Li N, Vaduva M, Bwanali L, Tripathi A. A microfluidic electrophoretic dual dynamic staining method for the identification and relative quantitation of dsRNA contaminants in mRNA vaccines. Analyst 2023; 148:3758-3767. [PMID: 37439498 DOI: 10.1039/d3an00281k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines (i.e., COVID-19 vaccine) offer various advantages over traditional vaccines in preventing and reducing disease and shortening the time between pathogen discovery and vaccine creation. Production of mRNA vaccines results in several nucleic acid and enzymatic by-products, most of which can be detected and removed; however, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) contaminants pose a particular challenge. Current purification and detection platforms for dsRNA vary in effectiveness, with problems in scalability for mass mRNA vaccine production. Effectively detecting dsRNA is crucial in ensuring the safety and efficacy of the vaccines, as these strands can cause autoimmune reactions with length-symptom dependency and enhance mRNA degradation. We present a new microfluidics method to rapidly identify and quantify dsRNA fragments in mRNA samples. Our innovation exploits the differences in the dynamic staining behavior between mRNA and dsRNA molecules to detect dsRNA contaminants in a high throughput approach. The limit of detection of the system for dsRNA was estimated to be between 17.7-76.6 pg μL-1 with a maximum loading capacity of mRNA of 12.99 ng μL-1. Based on these estimated values, our method allows for the detection of dsRNA contaminants present in percentages as low as 0.14-0.59% compared to the total mRNA concentration. Here, we discuss the molecular mechanism of the dynamic staining behavior of dsRNA and mRNA for two different stains. We believe our method will accelerate the mRNA vaccine development from initial development to quality control workflows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Coll De Peña
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Nina Li
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Matei Vaduva
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
| | | | - Anubhav Tripathi
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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25
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Kimura T, Leal JM, Simpson A, Warner NL, Berube BJ, Archer JF, Park S, Kurtz R, Hinkley T, Nicholes K, Sharma S, Duthie MS, Berglund P, Reed SG, Khandhar AP, Erasmus JH. A localizing nanocarrier formulation enables multi-target immune responses to multivalent replicating RNA with limited systemic inflammation. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2360-2375. [PMID: 37403357 PMCID: PMC10422015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA vaccines possess significant clinical promise in counteracting human diseases caused by infectious or cancerous threats. Self-amplifying replicon RNA (repRNA) has been thought to offer the potential for enhanced potency and dose sparing. However, repRNA is a potent trigger of innate immune responses in vivo, which can cause reduced transgene expression and dose-limiting reactogenicity, as highlighted by recent clinical trials. Here, we report that multivalent repRNA vaccination, necessitating higher doses of total RNA, could be safely achieved in mice by delivering multiple repRNAs with a localizing cationic nanocarrier formulation (LION). Intramuscular delivery of multivalent repRNA by LION resulted in localized biodistribution accompanied by significantly upregulated local innate immune responses and the induction of antigen-specific adaptive immune responses in the absence of systemic inflammatory responses. In contrast, repRNA delivered by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) showed generalized biodistribution, a systemic inflammatory state, an increased body weight loss, and failed to induce neutralizing antibody responses in a multivalent composition. These findings suggest that in vivo delivery of repRNA by LION is a platform technology for safe and effective multivalent vaccination through mechanisms distinct from LNP-formulated repRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taishi Kimura
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA.
| | - Joseph M Leal
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Adrian Simpson
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Nikole L Warner
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Bryan J Berube
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Jacob F Archer
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Stephanie Park
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Ryan Kurtz
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Troy Hinkley
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | | | - Shibbu Sharma
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | | | - Peter Berglund
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Steven G Reed
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Amit P Khandhar
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Jesse H Erasmus
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, 750 Republican Street, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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26
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Kong B, Kim Y, Kim EH, Suk JS, Yang Y. mRNA: A promising platform for cancer immunotherapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114993. [PMID: 37414361 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is now in the limelight as a powerful tool for treating various human diseases, especially malignant tumors, thanks to the remarkable clinical outcomes of mRNA vaccines using lipid nanoparticle technology during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent promising preclinical and clinical results that epitomize the advancement in mRNA and nanoformulation-based delivery technologies have highlighted the tremendous potential of mRNA in cancer immunotherapy. mRNAs can be harnessed for cancer immunotherapy in forms of various therapeutic modalities, including cancer vaccines, adoptive T-cell therapies, therapeutic antibodies, and immunomodulatory proteins. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and prospects of mRNA-based therapeutics, including numerous delivery and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byoungjae Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Yelee Kim
- Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Hye Kim
- Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Soo Suk
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
| | - Yoosoo Yang
- Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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27
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Khorkova O, Stahl J, Joji A, Volmar CH, Wahlestedt C. Amplifying gene expression with RNA-targeted therapeutics. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:539-561. [PMID: 37253858 PMCID: PMC10227815 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00704-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Many diseases are caused by insufficient expression of mutated genes and would benefit from increased expression of the corresponding protein. However, in drug development, it has been historically easier to develop drugs with inhibitory or antagonistic effects. Protein replacement and gene therapy can achieve the goal of increased protein expression but have limitations. Recent discoveries of the extensive regulatory networks formed by non-coding RNAs offer alternative targets and strategies to amplify the production of a specific protein. In addition to RNA-targeting small molecules, new nucleic acid-based therapeutic modalities that allow highly specific modulation of RNA-based regulatory networks are being developed. Such approaches can directly target the stability of mRNAs or modulate non-coding RNA-mediated regulation of transcription and translation. This Review highlights emerging RNA-targeted therapeutics for gene activation, focusing on opportunities and challenges for translation to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Khorkova
- OPKO Health, Miami, FL, USA
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jack Stahl
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Aswathy Joji
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Claude-Henry Volmar
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Claes Wahlestedt
- Center for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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28
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Palmer CD, Scallan CD, Kraemer Tardif LD, Kachura MA, Rappaport AR, Koralek DO, Uriel A, Gitlin L, Klein J, Davis MJ, Venkatraman H, Hart MG, Jaroslavsky JR, Kounlavouth S, Marrali M, Nganje CN, Bae K, Yan T, Leodones K, Egorova M, Hong SJ, Kuan J, Grappi S, Garbes P, Jooss K, Ustianowski A. GRT-R910: a self-amplifying mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine boosts immunity for ≥6 months in previously-vaccinated older adults. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3274. [PMID: 37280238 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39053-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in high levels of morbidity and mortality world-wide, and severe complications can occur in older populations. Humoral immunity induced by authorized vaccines wanes within 6 months, and frequent boosts may only offer transient protection. GRT-R910 is an investigational self-amplifying mRNA (samRNA)-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine delivering full-length Spike and selected conserved non-Spike T cell epitopes. This study reports interim analyses for a phase I open-label dose-escalation trial evaluating GRT-R910 in previously vaccinated healthy older adults (NCT05148962). Primary endpoints of safety and tolerability were assessed. Most solicited local and systemic adverse events (AEs) following GRT-R910 dosing were mild to moderate and transient, and no treatment-related serious AEs were observed. The secondary endpoint of immunogenicity was assessed via IgG binding assays, neutralization assays, interferon-gamma ELISpot, and intracellular cytokine staining. Neutralizing antibody titers against ancestral Spike and variants of concern were boosted or induced by GRT-R910 and, contrasting to authorized vaccines, persisted through at least 6 months after the booster dose. GRT-R910 increased and/or broadened functional Spike-specific T cell responses and primed functional T cell responses to conserved non-Spike epitopes. This study is limited due to small sample size, and additional data from ongoing studies will be required to corroborate these interim findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Alison Uriel
- North Manchester General Hospital & University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrew Ustianowski
- North Manchester General Hospital & University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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29
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Huang SW, Pan CM, Lin YC, Chen MC, Chen Y, Jan CI, Wu CC, Lin FY, Wang ST, Lin CY, Lin PY, Huang WH, Chiang YT, Tsai WC, Chiu YH, Lin TH, Chiu SC, Cho DY. BiTE-Secreting CAR-γδT as a Dual Targeting Strategy for the Treatment of Solid Tumors. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2206856. [PMID: 37078788 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
HLA-G is considered as an immune checkpoint protein and a tumor-associated antigen. In the previous work, it is reported that CAR-NK targeting of HLA-G can be used to treat certain solid tumors. However, the frequent co-expression of PD-L1 and HLA-G) and up-regulation of PD-L1 after adoptive immunotherapy may decrease the effectiveness of HLA-G-CAR. Therefore, simultaneous targeting of HLA-G and PD-L1 by multi-specific CAR could represent an appropriate solution. Furthermore, gamma-delta T (γδT) cells exhibit MHC-independent cytotoxicity against tumor cells and possess allogeneic potential. The utilization of nanobodies offers flexibility for CAR engineering and the ability to recognize novel epitopes. In this study, Vδ2 γδT cells are used as effector cells and electroporated with an mRNA-driven, nanobody-based HLA-G-CAR with a secreted PD-L1/CD3ε Bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) construct (Nb-CAR.BiTE). Both in vivo and in vitro experiments reveal that the Nb-CAR.BiTE-γδT cells could effectively eliminate PD-L1 and/or HLA-G-positive solid tumors. The secreted PD-L1/CD3ε Nb-BiTE can not only redirect Nb-CAR-γδT but also recruit un-transduced bystander T cells against tumor cells expressing PD-L1, thereby enhancing the activity of Nb-CAR-γδT therapy. Furthermore, evidence is provided that Nb-CAR.BiTE redirectes γδT into tumor-implanted tissues and that the secreted Nb-BiTE is restricted to the tumor site without apparent toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Wei Huang
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
- Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ming Pan
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chuan Lin
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chih Chen
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yeh Chen
- Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ing Jan
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, 813414, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Chun Wu
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Yu Lin
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Sin-Ting Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yu Lin
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ying Lin
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hsaing Huang
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Chiang
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Chen Tsai
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Hsu Chiu
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Hsun Lin
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Chih Chiu
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Der-Yang Cho
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
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30
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Host Cell Restriction Factors Blocking Efficient Vector Transduction: Challenges in Lentiviral and Adeno-Associated Vector Based Gene Therapies. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050732. [PMID: 36899868 PMCID: PMC10001033 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy relies on the delivery of genetic material to the patient's cells in order to provide a therapeutic treatment. Two of the currently most used and efficient delivery systems are the lentiviral (LV) and adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. Gene therapy vectors must successfully attach, enter uncoated, and escape host restriction factors (RFs), before reaching the nucleus and effectively deliver the therapeutic genetic instructions to the cell. Some of these RFs are ubiquitously expressed in mammalian cells, while others are cell-specific, and others still are expressed only upon induction by danger signals as type I interferons. Cell restriction factors have evolved to protect the organism against infectious diseases and tissue damage. These restriction factors can be intrinsic, directly acting on the vector, or related with the innate immune response system, acting indirectly through the induction of interferons, but both are intertwined. The innate immunity is the first line of defense against pathogens and, as such cells derived from myeloid progenitors (but not only), are well equipped with RFs to detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). In addition, some non-professional cells, such as epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts, play major roles in pathogen recognition. Unsurprisingly, foreign DNA and RNA molecules are among the most detected PAMPs. Here, we review and discuss identified RFs that block LV and AAV vector transduction, hindering their therapeutic efficacy.
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31
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Yuan Y, Gao F, Chang Y, Zhao Q, He X. Advances of mRNA vaccine in tumor: a maze of opportunities and challenges. Biomark Res 2023; 11:6. [PMID: 36650562 PMCID: PMC9845107 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00449-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
High-frequency mutations in tumor genomes could be exploited as an asset for developing tumor vaccines. In recent years, with the tremendous breakthrough in genomics, intelligence algorithm, and in-depth insight of tumor immunology, it has become possible to rapidly target genomic alterations in tumor cell and rationally select vaccine targets. Among a variety of candidate vaccine platforms, the early application of mRNA was limited by instability low efficiency and excessive immunogenicity until the successful development of mRNA vaccines against SARS-COV-2 broken of technical bottleneck in vaccine preparation, allowing tumor mRNA vaccines to be prepared rapidly in an economical way with good performance of stability and efficiency. In this review, we systematically summarized the classification and characteristics of tumor antigens, the general process and methods for screening neoantigens, the strategies of vaccine preparations and advances in clinical trials, as well as presented the main challenges in the current mRNA tumor vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yuan
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Gao
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Chang
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingxing He
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China ,grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
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32
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Schmidt C, Schnierle BS. Self-Amplifying RNA Vaccine Candidates: Alternative Platforms for mRNA Vaccine Development. Pathogens 2023; 12:138. [PMID: 36678486 PMCID: PMC9863218 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The present use of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 has shown for the first time the potential of mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases. Here we will summarize the current knowledge about improved mRNA vaccines, i.e., the self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccines. This approach may enhance antigen expression by amplification of the antigen-encoding RNA. RNA design, RNA delivery, and the innate immune responses induced by RNA will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin Schmidt
- Section AIDS and Newly Emerging Pathogens, Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Barbara S. Schnierle
- Section AIDS and Newly Emerging Pathogens, Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225 Langen, Germany
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33
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Vavilis T, Stamoula E, Ainatzoglou A, Sachinidis A, Lamprinou M, Dardalas I, Vizirianakis IS. mRNA in the Context of Protein Replacement Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010166. [PMID: 36678793 PMCID: PMC9866414 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein replacement therapy is an umbrella term used for medical treatments that aim to substitute or replenish specific protein deficiencies that result either from the protein being absent or non-functional due to mutations in affected patients. Traditionally, such an approach requires a well characterized but arduous and expensive protein production procedure that employs in vitro expression and translation of the pharmaceutical protein in host cells, followed by extensive purification steps. In the wake of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, mRNA-based pharmaceuticals were recruited to achieve rapid in vivo production of antigens, proving that the in vivo translation of exogenously administered mRNA is nowadays a viable therapeutic option. In addition, the urgency of the situation and worldwide demand for mRNA-based medicine has led to an evolution in relevant technologies, such as in vitro transcription and nanolipid carriers. In this review, we present preclinical and clinical applications of mRNA as a tool for protein replacement therapy, alongside with information pertaining to the manufacture of modified mRNA through in vitro transcription, carriers employed for its intracellular delivery and critical quality attributes pertaining to the finished product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theofanis Vavilis
- Laboratory of Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Dentistry, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
- Correspondence:
| | - Eleni Stamoula
- Centre of Systems Biology, Department of Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandra Ainatzoglou
- Centre of Systems Biology, Department of Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios Sachinidis
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Malamatenia Lamprinou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Dardalas
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis S. Vizirianakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Life & Health Sciences, School of Sciences and Engineering, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 1700, Cyprus
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Panella R, Zanderigo F, Morandini F, Federico D, Vicentini E, Andreetta F, Toniolo A, Kauppinen S. Assessment of immunostimulatory responses to the antimiR-22 oligonucleotide compound RES-010 in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1125654. [PMID: 37033600 PMCID: PMC10076763 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1125654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
microRNA-22 (miR-22) is a key regulator of lipid and energy homeostasis and represents a promising therapeutic target for NAFLD and obesity. We have previously identified a locked nucleic acid (LNA)-modified antisense oligonucleotide compound complementary to miR-22, designated as RES-010 that mediated robust inhibition of miR-22 function in cultured cells and in vivo. In this study we investigated the immune potential of RES-010 in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We treated fresh human peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from six healthy volunteers with different concentrations of the RES-010 compound and assessed its proinflammatory effects by quantifying IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IFN-α2a, IFN-β, IL-10, and IL-17A in the supernatants collected 24 h of treatment with RES-010. The T-cell activation markers, CD69, HLA-DR, and CD25 were evaluated by flow cytometry after 24 and 144 h of treatment, respectively, whereas cell viability was assessed after 24 h of treatment with RES-010. Our results show that RES-010 compound does not induce any significant immunostimulatory responses in human PBMCs in vitro compared to controls, implying that the proinflammatory potential of RES-010 is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Panella
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Resalis Therapeutics S.r.l., Torino, Italy
- *Correspondence: Riccardo Panella,
| | - Floriana Zanderigo
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Morandini
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Denise Federico
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Vicentini
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | - Filippo Andreetta
- Aptuit (Verona) S.r.l., an Evotec Company, Campus Levi-Montalcini, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Sakari Kauppinen
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kim B, Hosn RR, Remba T, Yun D, Li N, Abraham W, Melo MB, Cortes M, Li B, Zhang Y, Dong Y, Irvine DJ. Optimization of storage conditions for lipid nanoparticle-formulated self-replicating RNA vaccines. J Control Release 2023; 353:241-253. [PMID: 36414195 PMCID: PMC9708520 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The recent clinical success of multiple mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines has proven the potential of RNA formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in humans, and products based on base-modified RNA, sequence-optimized RNA, and self-replicating RNAs formulated in LNPs are all in various stages of clinical development. However, much remains to be learned about critical parameters governing the manufacturing and use of LNP-RNA formulations. One important issue that has received limited attention in the literature to date is the identification of optimal storage conditions for LNP-RNA that preserve long-term activity of the formulations. Here, we analyzed the physical structure, in vivo expression characteristics, and functional activity of alphavirus-derived self-replicating RNA (repRNA)-loaded LNPs encoding HIV vaccine antigens following storage in varying temperatures, buffers, and in the presence or absence of cryoprotectants. We found that for lipid nanoparticles with compositions similar to clinically-used LNPs, storage in RNAse-free PBS containing 10% (w/v) sucrose at -20 °C was able to maintain vaccine stability and in vivo potency at a level equivalent to freshly prepared vaccines following 30 days of storage. LNPs loaded with repRNA could also be lyophilized with retention of bioactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byungji Kim
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ryan R Hosn
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Tanaka Remba
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Dongsoo Yun
- Nanotechnology Materials Core, Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Na Li
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Wuhbet Abraham
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Mariane B Melo
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Manuel Cortes
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Bridget Li
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yuebao Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Center for Clinical and Translational Science, The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Cancer Engineering, Center for Cancer Metabolism, Pelotonia Institute for Immune-Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Darrell J Irvine
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Departments of Biological Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA.
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Donahue DA, Ballesteros C, Maruggi G, Glover C, Ringenberg MA, Marquis M, Ben Abdeljelil N, Ashraf A, Rodriguez LA, Stokes AH. Nonclinical Safety Assessment of Lipid Nanoparticle-and Emulsion-Based Self-Amplifying mRNA Vaccines in Rats. Int J Toxicol 2023; 42:37-49. [PMID: 36472205 DOI: 10.1177/10915818221138781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines containing mRNA with the capacity to self-amplify represent an alternative to the mRNA vaccines that came to prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. To gain further insights on the safety profile of self-amplifying mRNA- (SAM-) vaccines, this preclinical toxicology study in rats evaluated the effect of (i) the type of delivery system (lipid nanoparticle [LNP] vs cationic nano-emulsion [CNE]); (ii) antigen-encoding sequence (rabies glycoprotein G vs SARS-CoV-2 Spike); and (iii) RNA amplification. Further analyses also evaluated gene expression in peripheral blood after vaccination, and the biodistribution of vaccine RNA. The SAM vaccines administered as two doses 2-weeks apart had acceptable safety profiles in rats, with respect to clinical signs, blood biochemistry, and macroscopic and microscopic pathology. A transient increase in ALT/AST ratio occurred only in female rats and in the absence of muscle and liver damage was dependent on RNA amplification and appeared related to the greater quantities of vaccine RNA in the muscle and livers of female rats vs male rats. The RNA and delivery-vehicle components, but not the nature of the antigen-coding sequence or the requirement for RNA amplification, affected aspects of the stimulation of innate-immune activity, which was consistent with the transient activation of type I and type II interferon signaling. The delivery vehicle, LNP, differed from CNE as vaccine RNA in CNE compositions appeared independently to stimulate innate-immune activity at 4 hours after vaccination. Our analysis supports further studies to assess whether these differences in innate-immune activity affect safety and efficacy of the SAM vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Asma Ashraf
- Charles River Laboratories, Laval, QC, Canada
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Tregoning JS, Stirling DC, Wang Z, Flight KE, Brown JC, Blakney AK, McKay PF, Cunliffe RF, Murugaiah V, Fox CB, Beattie M, Tam YK, Johansson C, Shattock RJ. Formulation, inflammation, and RNA sensing impact the immunogenicity of self-amplifying RNA vaccines. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 31:29-42. [PMID: 36589712 PMCID: PMC9794906 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To be effective, RNA vaccines require both in situ translation and the induction of an immune response to recruit cells to the site of immunization. These factors can pull in opposite directions with the inflammation reducing expression of the vaccine antigen. We investigated how formulation affects the acute systemic cytokine response to a self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccine. We compared a cationic polymer (pABOL), a lipid emulsion (nanostructured lipid carrier, NLC), and three lipid nanoparticles (LNP). After immunization, we measured serum cytokines and compared the response to induced antibodies against influenza virus. Formulations that induced a greater cytokine response induced a greater antibody response, with a significant correlation between IP-10, MCP-1, KC, and antigen-specific antibody titers. We then investigated how innate immune sensing and signaling impacted the adaptive immune response to vaccination with LNP-formulated saRNA. Mice that lacked MAVS and are unable to signal through RIG-I-like receptors had an altered cytokine response to saRNA vaccination and had significantly greater antibody responses than wild-type mice. This indicates that the inflammation induced by formulated saRNA vaccines is not solely deleterious in the induction of antibody responses and that targeting specific aspects of RNA vaccine sensing might improve the quality of the response.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S. Tregoning
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK,Corresponding author John S. Tregoning, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK.
| | - David C. Stirling
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Ziyin Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Katie E. Flight
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Jonathan C. Brown
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Anna K. Blakney
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Paul F. McKay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Robert F. Cunliffe
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Valarmathy Murugaiah
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Christopher B. Fox
- IDRI, Seattle, WA, USA,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mitchell Beattie
- Acuitas Therapeutics, 6190 Agronomy Road, Ste 405, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ying K. Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, 6190 Agronomy Road, Ste 405, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Cecilia Johansson
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
| | - Robin J. Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, St. Mary’s Campus, London, UK
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Pourseif MM, Masoudi-Sobhanzadeh Y, Azari E, Parvizpour S, Barar J, Ansari R, Omidi Y. Self-amplifying mRNA vaccines: Mode of action, design, development and optimization. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:103341. [PMID: 35988718 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The mRNA-based vaccines are quality-by-design (QbD) immunotherapies that provide safe, tunable, scalable, streamlined and potent treatment possibilities against different types of diseases. The self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccines, as a highly advantageous class of mRNA vaccines, are inspired by the intracellular self-multiplication nature of some positive-sense RNA viruses. Such vaccine platforms provide a relatively increased expression level of vaccine antigen(s) together with self-adjuvanticity properties. Lined with the QbD saRNA vaccines, essential optimizations improve the stability, safety, and immunogenicity of the vaccine constructs. Here, we elaborate on the concepts and mode-of-action of mRNA and saRNA vaccines, articulate the potential limitations or technical bottlenecks, and explain possible solutions or optimization methods in the process of their design and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad M Pourseif
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yosef Masoudi-Sobhanzadeh
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Erfan Azari
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sepideh Parvizpour
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jaleh Barar
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Rais Ansari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Yadollah Omidi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
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Papukashvili D, Rcheulishvili N, Liu C, Ji Y, He Y, Wang PG. Self-Amplifying RNA Approach for Protein Replacement Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12884. [PMID: 36361673 PMCID: PMC9655356 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has already been successfully tested preclinically and there are ongoing clinical trials for protein replacement purposes; however, more effort has been put into the development of prevention strategies against infectious diseases. Apparently, mRNA vaccine approval against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a landmark for opening new opportunities for managing diverse health disorders based on this approach. Indeed, apart from infectious diseases, it has also been widely tested in numerous directions including cancer prevention and the treatment of inherited disorders. Interestingly, self-amplifying RNA (saRNA)-based technology is believed to display more developed RNA therapy compared with conventional mRNA technique in terms of its lower dosage requirements, relatively fewer side effects, and possessing long-lasting effects. Nevertheless, some challenges still exist that need to be overcome in order to achieve saRNA-based drug approval in clinics. Hence, the current review discusses the feasibility of saRNA utility for protein replacement therapy on various health disorders including rare hereditary diseases and also provides a detailed overview of saRNA advantages, its molecular structure, mechanism of action, and relevant delivery platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yunjiao He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Peng George Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
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Kairuz D, Samudh N, Ely A, Arbuthnot P, Bloom K. Advancing mRNA technologies for therapies and vaccines: An African context. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1018961. [PMID: 36353641 PMCID: PMC9637871 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic mRNA technologies represent a versatile platform that can be used to develop advanced drug products. The remarkable speed with which vaccine development programs designed and manufactured safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines has rekindled interest in mRNA technology, particularly for future pandemic preparedness. Although recent R&D has focused largely on advancing mRNA vaccines and large-scale manufacturing capabilities, the technology has been used to develop various immunotherapies, gene editing strategies, and protein replacement therapies. Within the mRNA technologies toolbox lie several platforms, design principles, and components that can be adapted to modulate immunogenicity, stability, in situ expression, and delivery. For example, incorporating modified nucleotides into conventional mRNA transcripts can reduce innate immune responses and improve in situ translation. Alternatively, self-amplifying RNA may enhance vaccine-mediated immunity by increasing antigen expression. This review will highlight recent advances in the field of synthetic mRNA therapies and vaccines, and discuss the ongoing global efforts aimed at reducing vaccine inequity by establishing mRNA manufacturing capacity within Africa and other low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kristie Bloom
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Bogaert B, Sauvage F, Guagliardo R, Muntean C, Nguyen VP, Pottie E, Wels M, Minnaert AK, De Rycke R, Yang Q, Peer D, Sanders N, Remaut K, Paulus YM, Stove C, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K. A lipid nanoparticle platform for mRNA delivery through repurposing of cationic amphiphilic drugs. J Control Release 2022; 350:256-270. [PMID: 35963467 PMCID: PMC9401634 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Since the recent clinical approval of siRNA-based drugs and COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, the potential of RNA therapeutics for patient healthcare has become widely accepted. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are currently the most advanced nanocarriers for RNA packaging and delivery. Nevertheless, the intracellular delivery efficiency of state-of-the-art LNPs remains relatively low and safety and immunogenicity concerns with synthetic lipid components persist, altogether rationalizing the exploration of alternative LNP compositions. In addition, there is an interest in exploiting LNP technology for simultaneous encapsulation of small molecule drugs and RNA in a single nanocarrier. Here, we describe how well-known tricyclic cationic amphiphilic drugs (CADs) can be repurposed as both structural and functional components of lipid-based NPs for mRNA formulation, further referred to as CADosomes. We demonstrate that selected CADs, such as tricyclic antidepressants and antihistamines, self-assemble with the widely-used helper lipid DOPE to form cationic lipid vesicles for subsequent mRNA complexation and delivery, without the need for prior lipophilic derivatization. Selected CADosomes enabled efficient mRNA delivery in various in vitro cell models, including easy-to-transfect cancer cells (e.g. human cervical carcinoma HeLa cell line) as well as hard-to-transfect primary cells (e.g. primary bovine corneal epithelial cells), outperforming commercially available cationic liposomes and state-of-the-art LNPs. In addition, using the antidepressant nortriptyline as a model compound, we show that CADs can maintain their pharmacological activity upon CADosome incorporation. Furthermore, in vivo proof-of-concept was obtained, demonstrating CADosome-mediated mRNA delivery in the corneal epithelial cells of rabbit eyes, which could pave the way for future applications in ophthalmology. Based on our results, the co-formulation of CADs, helper lipids and mRNA into lipid-based nanocarriers is proposed as a versatile and straightforward approach for the rational development of drug combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bram Bogaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Félix Sauvage
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Roberta Guagliardo
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Cristina Muntean
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Van Phuc Nguyen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Eline Pottie
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Mike Wels
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - An-Katrien Minnaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Riet De Rycke
- Ghent University Expertise Center for Transmission Electron Microscopy and VIB BioImaging Core, 9052 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Qiangbing Yang
- Experimental Cardiology Laboratory, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht and Circulatory Health Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Dan Peer
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel.
| | - Niek Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Yannis M Paulus
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Christophe Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Kanoi BN, Maina M, Likhovole C, Kobia FM, Gitaka J. Malaria vaccine approaches leveraging technologies optimized in the COVID-19 era. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.988665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Africa bears the greatest burden of malaria with more than 200 million clinical cases and more than 600,000 deaths in 2020 alone. While malaria-associated deaths dropped steadily until 2015, the decline started to falter after 2016, highlighting the need for novel potent tools in the fight against malaria. Currently available tools, such as antimalarial drugs and insecticides are threatened by development of resistance by the parasite and the mosquito. The WHO has recently approved RTS,S as the first malaria vaccine for public health use. However, because the RTS,S vaccine has an efficacy of only 36% in young children, there is need for more efficacious vaccines. Indeed, based on the global goal of licensing a malaria vaccine with at least 75% efficacy by 2030, RTS,S is unlikely to be sufficient alone. However, recent years have seen tremendous progress in vaccine development. Although the COVID-19 pandemic impacted malaria control, the rapid progress in research towards the development of COVID-19 vaccines indicate that harnessing funds and technological advances can remarkably expedite vaccine development. In this review, we highlight and discuss current and prospective trends in global efforts to discover and develop malaria vaccines through leveraging mRNA vaccine platforms and other systems optimized during COVID-19 vaccine studies.
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A Bivalent Trans-Amplifying RNA Vaccine Candidate Induces Potent Chikungunya and Ross River Virus Specific Immune Responses. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091374. [PMID: 36146452 PMCID: PMC9503900 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091374] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Alphaviruses such as the human pathogenic chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and Ross River virus (RRV) can cause explosive outbreaks raising public health concerns. However, no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment is yet available. We recently established a CHIKV vaccine candidate based on trans-amplifying RNA (taRNA). This novel system consists of a replicase-encoding mRNA and a trans-replicon (TR) RNA encoding the antigen. The TR-RNA is amplified by the replicase in situ. We were interested in determining whether multiple TR-RNAs can be amplified in parallel and if, thus, a multivalent vaccine candidate can be generated. In vitro, we observed an efficient amplification of two TR-RNAs, encoding for the CHIKV and the RRV envelope proteins, by the replicase, which resulted in a high antigen expression. Vaccination of BALB/c mice with the two TR-RNAs induced CHIKV- and RRV-specific humoral and cellular immune responses. However, antibody titers and neutralization capacity were higher after immunization with a single TR-RNA. In contrast, alphavirus-specific T cell responses were equally potent after the bivalent vaccination. These data show the proof-of-principle that the taRNA system can be used to generate multivalent vaccines; however, further optimizations will be needed for clinical application.
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Stevenson EM, Terry S, Copertino D, Leyre L, Danesh A, Weiler J, Ward AR, Khadka P, McNeil E, Bernard K, Miller IG, Ellsworth GB, Johnston CD, Finkelsztein EJ, Zumbo P, Betel D, Dündar F, Duncan MC, Lapointe HR, Speckmaier S, Moran-Garcia N, Papa MP, Nicholes S, Stover CJ, Lynch RM, Caskey M, Gaebler C, Chun TW, Bosque A, Wilkin TJ, Lee GQ, Brumme ZL, Jones RB. SARS CoV-2 mRNA vaccination exposes latent HIV to Nef-specific CD8 + T-cells. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4888. [PMID: 35985993 PMCID: PMC9389512 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32376-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Efforts to cure HIV have focused on reactivating latent proviruses to enable elimination by CD8+ cytotoxic T-cells. Clinical studies of latency reversing agents (LRA) in antiretroviral therapy (ART)-treated individuals have shown increases in HIV transcription, but without reductions in virologic measures, or evidence that HIV-specific CD8+ T-cells were productively engaged. Here, we show that the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2 activates the RIG-I/TLR - TNF - NFκb axis, resulting in transcription of HIV proviruses with minimal perturbations of T-cell activation and host transcription. T-cells specific for the early gene-product HIV-Nef uniquely increased in frequency and acquired effector function (granzyme-B) in ART-treated individuals following SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination. These parameters of CD8+ T-cell induction correlated with significant decreases in cell-associated HIV mRNA, suggesting killing or suppression of cells transcribing HIV. Thus, we report the observation of an intervention-induced reduction in a measure of HIV persistence, accompanied by precise immune correlates, in ART-suppressed individuals. However, we did not observe significant depletions of intact proviruses, underscoring challenges to achieving (or measuring) HIV reservoir reductions. Overall, our results support prioritizing the measurement of granzyme-B-producing Nef-specific responses in latency reversal studies and add impetus to developing HIV-targeted mRNA therapeutic vaccines that leverage built-in LRA activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M Stevenson
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sandra Terry
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dennis Copertino
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Louise Leyre
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ali Danesh
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jared Weiler
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adam R Ward
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pragya Khadka
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Evan McNeil
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kevin Bernard
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Itzayana G Miller
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Grant B Ellsworth
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carrie D Johnston
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eli J Finkelsztein
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Zumbo
- Applied Bioinformatics Core, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Doron Betel
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Applied Bioinformatics Core, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Friederike Dündar
- Applied Bioinformatics Core, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maggie C Duncan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hope R Lapointe
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sarah Speckmaier
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nadia Moran-Garcia
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michelle Premazzi Papa
- Dept of Microbiology Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Samuel Nicholes
- Dept of Microbiology Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Carissa J Stover
- Dept of Microbiology Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rebecca M Lynch
- Dept of Microbiology Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Marina Caskey
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christian Gaebler
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tae-Wook Chun
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alberto Bosque
- Dept of Microbiology Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Timothy J Wilkin
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Guinevere Q Lee
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zabrina L Brumme
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - R Brad Jones
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY, USA.
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Schmidt C, Haefner E, Gerbeth J, Beissert T, Sahin U, Perkovic M, Schnierle BS. A taRNA vaccine candidate induces a specific immune response that protects mice against Chikungunya virus infections. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 28:743-754. [PMID: 35664702 PMCID: PMC9126847 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The arthritogenic alphavirus, chikungunya virus (CHIKV), is now present in almost 100 countries worldwide. Further spread is very likely, which raises public health concerns. CHIKV infections cause fever and arthralgia, which can be debilitating and last for years. Here, we describe a CHIKV vaccine candidate based on trans-amplifying RNA (taRNA). The vaccine candidate consists of two RNAs: a non-replicating mRNA encoding for the CHIKV nonstructural proteins, forming the replicase complex and a trans-replicon (TR) RNA encoding the CHIKV envelope proteins. The TR-RNA can be amplified by the replicase in trans, and small RNA amounts can induce a potent immune response. The TR-RNA was efficiently amplified by the CHIKV replicase in vitro, leading to high protein expression, comparable to that generated by a CHIKV infection. In addition, the taRNA system did not recombine to replication-competent CHIKV. Using a prime-boost schedule, the vaccine candidate induced potent CHIKV-specific humoral and cellular immune responses in vivo in a mouse model. Notably, mice were protected against a high-dose CHIKV challenge infection with two vaccine doses of only 1.5 μg RNA. Therefore, taRNAs are a promising safe and efficient vaccination strategy against CHIKV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin Schmidt
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich Strasse 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Erik Haefner
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich Strasse 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany.,TRON (Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Julia Gerbeth
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich Strasse 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Tim Beissert
- TRON (Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Ugur Sahin
- TRON (Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany.,Research Center for Immunotherapy (FZI), University Medical Center at the Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Mario Perkovic
- TRON (Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center), Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Barbara S Schnierle
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich Strasse 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany
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McKay PF, Zhou J, Frise R, Blakney AK, Bouton CR, Wang Z, Hu K, Samnuan K, Brown JC, Kugathasan R, Yeow J, Stevens MM, Barclay WS, Tregoning JS, Shattock RJ. Polymer formulated self-amplifying RNA vaccine is partially protective against influenza virus infection in ferrets. OXFORD OPEN IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 3:iqac004. [PMID: 35996628 PMCID: PMC9384352 DOI: 10.1093/oxfimm/iqac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has demonstrated the power of RNA vaccines as part of a pandemic response toolkit. Another virus with pandemic potential is influenza. Further development of RNA vaccines in advance of a future influenza pandemic will save time and lives. As RNA vaccines require formulation to enter cells and induce antigen expression, the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a recently developed bioreducible cationic polymer, pABOL for the delivery of a self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccine for seasonal influenza virus in mice and ferrets. Mice and ferrets were immunized with pABOL formulated saRNA vaccines expressing either haemagglutinin (HA) from H1N1 or H3N2 influenza virus in a prime boost regime. Antibody responses, both binding and functional were measured in serum after immunization. Animals were then challenged with a matched influenza virus either directly by intranasal inoculation or in a contact transmission model. While highly immunogenic in mice, pABOL-formulated saRNA led to variable responses in ferrets. Animals that responded to the vaccine with higher levels of influenza virus-specific neutralizing antibodies were more protected against influenza virus infection. pABOL-formulated saRNA is immunogenic in ferrets, but further optimization of RNA vaccine formulation and constructs is required to increase the quality and quantity of the antibody response to the vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- P F McKay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - J Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - R Frise
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - A K Blakney
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - C R Bouton
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Z Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - K Hu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - K Samnuan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - J C Brown
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - R Kugathasan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - J Yeow
- Departments of Materials and Bioengineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London , London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - M M Stevens
- Departments of Materials and Bioengineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London , London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - W S Barclay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - J S Tregoning
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
| | - R J Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London W2 1PG, UK
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Wei J, Hui AM. The paradigm shift in treatment from Covid-19 to oncology with mRNA vaccines. Cancer Treat Rev 2022; 107:102405. [PMID: 35576777 PMCID: PMC9068246 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2022.102405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have gained popularity over the last decade as a versatile tool for developing novel therapeutics. The recent success of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) mRNA vaccine has unlocked the potential of mRNA technology as a powerful therapeutic platform. In this review, we apprise the literature on the various types of cancer vaccines, the novel platforms available for delivery of the vaccines, the recent progress in the RNA-based therapies and the evolving role of mRNA vaccines for various cancer indications, along with a future strategy to treat the patients. Literature reveals that despite multifaceted challenges in the development of mRNA vaccines, the promising and durable efficacy of the RNA in pre-clinical and clinical studies deserves consideration. The introduction of mRNA-transfected DC vaccine is an approach that has gained interest for cancer vaccine development due to its ability to circumvent the necessity of DC isolation, ex vivo cultivation and re-infusion. The selection of appropriate antigen of interest remains one of the major challenges for cancer vaccine development. The rapid development and large-scale production of mRNA platform has enabled for the development of both personalized vaccines (mRNA 4157, mRNA 4650 and RO7198457) and tetravalent vaccines (BNT111 and mRNA-5671). In addition, mRNA vaccines combined with checkpoint modulators and other novel medications that reverse immunosuppression show promise, however further research is needed to discover which combinations are most successful and the best dosing schedule for each component. Each delivery route (intradermal, subcutaneous, intra tumoral, intranodal, intranasal, intravenous) has its own set of challenges to overcome, and these challenges will decide the best delivery method. In other words, while developing a vaccine design, the underlying motivation should be a reasonable combination of delivery route and format. Exploring various administration routes and delivery route systems has boosted the development of mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Wei
- Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Industrial Development, Co., Ltd., 1289 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China; Fosun Pharma USA Inc, 91 Hartwell Avenue, Suite 305, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
| | - Ai-Min Hui
- Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Industrial Development, Co., Ltd., 1289 Yishan Road, Shanghai 200233, China; Fosun Pharma USA Inc, 91 Hartwell Avenue, Suite 305, Lexington, MA 02421, USA.
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48
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Qin S, Tang X, Chen Y, Chen K, Fan N, Xiao W, Zheng Q, Li G, Teng Y, Wu M, Song X. mRNA-based therapeutics: powerful and versatile tools to combat diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:166. [PMID: 35597779 PMCID: PMC9123296 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01007-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic use of messenger RNA (mRNA) has fueled great hope to combat a wide range of incurable diseases. Recent rapid advances in biotechnology and molecular medicine have enabled the production of almost any functional protein/peptide in the human body by introducing mRNA as a vaccine or therapeutic agent. This represents a rising precision medicine field with great promise for preventing and treating many intractable or genetic diseases. In addition, in vitro transcribed mRNA has achieved programmed production, which is more effective, faster in design and production, as well as more flexible and cost-effective than conventional approaches that may offer. Based on these extraordinary advantages, mRNA vaccines have the characteristics of the swiftest response to large-scale outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as the currently devastating pandemic COVID-19. It has always been the scientists’ desire to improve the stability, immunogenicity, translation efficiency, and delivery system to achieve efficient and safe delivery of mRNA. Excitingly, these scientific dreams have gradually been realized with the rapid, amazing achievements of molecular biology, RNA technology, vaccinology, and nanotechnology. In this review, we comprehensively describe mRNA-based therapeutics, including their principles, manufacture, application, effects, and shortcomings. We also highlight the importance of mRNA optimization and delivery systems in successful mRNA therapeutics and discuss the key challenges and opportunities in developing these tools into powerful and versatile tools to combat many genetic, infectious, cancer, and other refractory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shugang Qin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoshan Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuting Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kepan Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Na Fan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qian Zheng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guohong Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuqing Teng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, 58203, USA
| | - Xiangrong Song
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Nucleic Acids as Biotools at the Interface between Chemistry and Nanomedicine in the COVID-19 Era. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084359. [PMID: 35457177 PMCID: PMC9031702 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent development of mRNA vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 infection has turned the spotlight on the potential of nucleic acids as innovative prophylactic agents and as diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Until now, their use has been severely limited by their reduced half-life in the biological environment and the difficulties related to their transport to target cells. These limiting aspects can now be overcome by resorting to chemical modifications in the drug and using appropriate nanocarriers, respectively. Oligonucleotides can interact with complementary sequences of nucleic acid targets, forming stable complexes and determining their loss of function. An alternative strategy uses nucleic acid aptamers that, like the antibodies, bind to specific proteins to modulate their activity. In this review, the authors will examine the recent literature on nucleic acids-based strategies in the COVID-19 era, focusing the attention on their applications for the prophylaxis of COVID-19, but also on antisense- and aptamer-based strategies directed to the diagnosis and therapy of the coronavirus pandemic.
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Daniel S, Kis Z, Kontoravdi C, Shah N. Quality by Design for enabling RNA platform production processes. Trends Biotechnol 2022; 40:1213-1228. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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