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Almansour I, Jermy BR. Nucleic acid vaccine candidates encapsulated with mesoporous silica nanoparticles against MERS-CoV. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2346390. [PMID: 38691025 PMCID: PMC11067998 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2346390] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Middle East respiratory coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a newly emergent, highly pathogenic coronavirus that is associated with 34% mortality rate. MERS-CoV remains listed as priority pathogen by the WHO. Since its discovery in 2012 and despite the efforts to develop coronaviruses vaccines to fight against SARS-CoV-2, there are currently no MERS-CoV vaccine that has been approved. Therefore, there is high demand to continue on the development of prophylactic vaccines against MERS-CoV. Current advancements in vaccine developments can be adapted for the development of improved MERS-CoV vaccines candidates. Nucleic acid-based vaccines, including pDNA and mRNA, are relatively new class of vaccine platforms. In this work, we developed pDNA and mRNA vaccine candidates expressing S.FL gene of MERS-CoV. Further, we synthesized a silane functionalized hierarchical aluminosilicate to encapsulate each vaccine candidates. We tested the nucleic acid vaccine candidates in mice and evaluated humoral antibodies response. Interestingly, we determined that the non-encapsulated, codon optimized S.FL pDNA vaccine candidate elicited the highest level of antibody responses against S.FL and S1 of MERS-CoV. Encapsulation of mRNA with nanoporous aluminosilicate increased the humoral antibody responses, whereas encapsulation of pDNA did not. These findings suggests that MERS-CoV S.FL pDNA vaccine candidate induced the highest level of humoral responses. This study will enhance further optimization of nanosilica as potential carrier for mRNA vaccines. In conclusion, this study suggests MERS-CoV pDNA vaccine candidate as a suitable vaccine platform for further pivotal preclinical testings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Almansour
- Nucleic Acid Vaccine Laboratory, Department of Epidemic Diseases Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations IRMC, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - B. Rabindran Jermy
- Department of Nanomedicine Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations IRMC, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Litvinova VR, Rudometov AP, Rudometova NB, Kisakov DN, Borgoyakova MB, Kisakova LA, Starostina EV, Fando AA, Yakovlev VA, Tigeeva EV, Ivanova KI, Gudymo AS, Ilyicheva TN, Marchenko VY, Sergeev AA, Ilyichev AA, Karpenko LI. DNA Vaccine Encoding a Modified Hemagglutinin Trimer of Avian Influenza A Virus H5N8 Protects Mice from Viral Challenge. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:538. [PMID: 38793789 PMCID: PMC11126123 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12050538] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of a safe and effective vaccine against avian influenza A virus (AIV) H5N8 is relevant due to the widespread distribution of this virus in the bird population and the existing potential risk of human infection, which can lead to significant public health concerns. Here, we developed an experimental pVAX-H5 DNA vaccine encoding a modified trimer of AIV H5N8 hemagglutinin. Immunization of BALB/c mice with pVAX-H5 using jet injection elicited high titer antibody response (the average titer in ELISA was 1 × 105), and generated a high level of neutralizing antibodies against H5N8 and T-cell response, as determined by ELISpot analysis. Both liquid and lyophilized forms of pVAX-H5 DNA vaccine provided 100% protection of immunized mice against lethal challenge with influenza A virus A/turkey/Stavropol/320-01/2020 (H5N8). The results obtained indicate that pVAX-H5 has good opportunities as a vaccine candidate against the influenza A virus (H5N8).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrey P. Rudometov
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology «Vector», Rospotrebnadzor, Koltsovo 630559, Novosibirsk Region, Russia; (V.R.L.); (N.B.R.); (D.N.K.); (M.B.B.); (L.A.K.); (E.V.S.); (A.A.F.); (E.V.T.); (K.I.I.); (A.S.G.); (T.N.I.); (V.Y.M.); (A.A.S.); (A.A.I.); (L.I.K.)
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3
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Maji D, Miguela V, Cameron AD, Campbell DA, Sasset L, Yao X, Thompson AT, Sussman C, Yang D, Miller R, Drozdz MM, Liberatore RA. Enhancing In Vivo Electroporation Efficiency through Hyaluronidase: Insights into Plasmid Distribution and Optimization Strategies. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:547. [PMID: 38675208 PMCID: PMC11053992 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Electroporation (EP) stands out as a promising non-viral plasmid delivery strategy, although achieving optimal transfection efficiency in vivo remains a challenge. A noteworthy advancement in the field of in vivo EP is the application of hyaluronidase, an enzyme with the capacity to degrade hyaluronic acid in the extracellular matrix, which thereby enhances DNA transfer efficiency by 2- to 3-fold. This paper focuses on elucidating the mechanism of hyaluronidase's impact on transfection efficiency. We demonstrate that hyaluronidase promotes a more uniform distribution of plasmid DNA (pDNA) within skeletal muscle. Additionally, our study investigates the effect of the timing of hyaluronidase pretreatment on EP efficiency by including time intervals of 0, 5, and 30 min between hyaluronidase treatment and the application of pulses. Serum levels of the pDNA-encoded transgene reveal a minimal influence of the hyaluronidase pretreatment time on the final serum protein levels following delivery in both mice and rabbit models. Leveraging bioimpedance measurements, we capture morphological changes in muscle induced by hyaluronidase treatment, which result in a varied pDNA distribution. Subsequently, these findings are employed to optimize EP electrical parameters following hyaluronidase treatment in animal models. This paper offers novel insights into the potential of hyaluronidase in enhancing the effectiveness of in vivo EP, as well as guides optimized electroporation strategies following hyaluronidase use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debnath Maji
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
| | - Verónica Miguela
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Sant Joan d’Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | - Linda Sasset
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
| | - Xin Yao
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
| | | | | | - David Yang
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Robert Miller
- RenBio Inc., Long Island City, New York, NY 11101, USA
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4
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Zhang X, Yuan H, Mahmmod YS, Yang Z, Zhao M, Song Y, Luo S, Zhang XX, Yuan ZG. Insight into the current Toxoplasma gondii DNA vaccine: a review article. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023; 22:66-89. [PMID: 36508550 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2157818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasma gondii (T.gondii) is a widespread protozoan with significant economic losses and public health importance. But so far, the protective effect of reported DNA-based vaccines fluctuates widely, and no study has demonstrated complete protection. AREAS COVERED This review provides an inclusive summary of T. gondii DNA vaccine antigens, adjuvants, and some other parameters. A total of 140 articles from 2000 to 2021 were collected from five databases. By contrasting the outcomes of acute and chronic challenges, we aimed to investigate and identify viable immunological strategies for optimum protection. Furthermore, we evaluated and discussed the impact of several parameters on challenge outcomes in the hopes of developing some recommendations to assist better future horizontal comparisons among research. EXPERT OPINION In the coming five years of research, the exploration of vaccine cocktails combining invasion antigens and metabolic antigens with genetic adjuvants or novel DNA delivery methods may offer us desirable protection against this multiple stage of life parasite. In addition to finding a better immune strategy, developing better in silico prediction methods, solving problems posed by variables in practical applications, and gaining a more profound knowledge of T.gondii-host molecular interaction is also crucial towards a successful vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xirui Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Hao Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yasser S Mahmmod
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, Higher Colleges of Technology, 17155, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zipeng Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Mengpo Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yining Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shengjun Luo
- Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiu-Xiang Zhang
- College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Zi-Guo Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
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5
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Girardin C, Maze D, Gonçalves C, Le Guen YT, Pluchon K, Pichon C, Montier T, Midoux P. Selective attachment of a microtubule interacting peptide to plasmid DNA via a triplex forming oligonucleotide for transfection improvement. Gene Ther 2022; 30:271-277. [PMID: 35794469 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-022-00354-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In nonviral gene therapy approaches, the linkage of signal molecules to plasmid DNA (pDNA) is of interest for guiding its delivery to the nucleus. Here, we report its linkage to a peptide (P79-98) mediating migration on microtubules by using a triplex-forming oligonucleotide (TFO). pDNA of 5 kbp and 21 kbp containing 6 and 36 oligopurine • oligopyrimidine sites (TH), respectively, inserted outside the luciferase gene sequence were used. TFO with a dibenzocyclooctyl (DBCO) group in 3' end comprising some Bridged Nucleic Acid bases was conjugated by click chemistry with the peptide carrying an azide function in the C-terminal end. We found the formation of 6 and 18 triplex with pDNA of 5 kbp and 21 kbp, respectively. A twofold increase of the transfection efficiency was observed in the hind-limbs upon Hydrodynamic Limb Vein (HLV) injection in mice of naked P79-98 -pDNA of 21 kbp. This work paves the way for the selective equipping of pDNA with intracellular targeting molecules while preserving the full expression of the encoded gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Girardin
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Inserm and University of Orléans, 45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | - Delphine Maze
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Inserm and University of Orléans, 45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | - Cristine Gonçalves
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Inserm and University of Orléans, 45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | | | - Kevin Pluchon
- Univ Brest, INSERM, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB - GTCA Team, F-29200, Brest, France
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Inserm and University of Orléans, 45071, Orléans cedex 02, France
| | - Tristan Montier
- Univ Brest, INSERM, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB - GTCA Team, F-29200, Brest, France. .,Service de Génétique Médicale et Biologie de la Reproduction, Centre de référence des maladies rares 'Maladies neuromusculaires', CHRU de Brest, F-29200, Brest, France.
| | - Patrick Midoux
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS UPR4301, Inserm and University of Orléans, 45071, Orléans cedex 02, France.
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6
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Sachdev S, Potočnik T, Rems L, Miklavčič D. Revisiting the role of pulsed electric fields in overcoming the barriers to in vivo gene electrotransfer. Bioelectrochemistry 2022; 144:107994. [PMID: 34930678 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2021.107994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapies are revolutionizing medicine by providing a way to cure hitherto incurable diseases. The scientific and technological advances have enabled the first gene therapies to become clinically approved. In addition, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we are witnessing record speeds in the development and distribution of gene-based vaccines. For gene therapy to take effect, the therapeutic nucleic acids (RNA or DNA) need to overcome several barriers before they can execute their function of producing a protein or silencing a defective or overexpressing gene. This includes the barriers of the interstitium, the cell membrane, the cytoplasmic barriers and (in case of DNA) the nuclear envelope. Gene electrotransfer (GET), i.e., transfection by means of pulsed electric fields, is a non-viral technique that can overcome these barriers in a safe and effective manner. GET has reached the clinical stage of investigations where it is currently being evaluated for its therapeutic benefits across a wide variety of indications. In this review, we formalize our current understanding of GET from a biophysical perspective and critically discuss the mechanisms by which electric field can aid in overcoming the barriers. We also identify the gaps in knowledge that are hindering optimization of GET in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaurya Sachdev
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaška cesta 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tjaša Potočnik
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaška cesta 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lea Rems
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaška cesta 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Damijan Miklavčič
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaška cesta 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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7
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Pagant S, Liberatore RA. In Vivo Electroporation of Plasmid DNA: A Promising Strategy for Rapid, Inexpensive, and Flexible Delivery of Anti-Viral Monoclonal Antibodies. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1882. [PMID: 34834297 PMCID: PMC8618954 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first approval of monoclonal antibodies by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986, therapeutic antibodies have become one of the predominant classes of drugs in oncology and immunology. Despite their natural function in contributing to antiviral immunity, antibodies as drugs have only more recently been thought of as tools for combating infectious diseases. Passive immunization, or the delivery of the products of an immune response, offers near-immediate protection, unlike the active immune processes triggered by traditional vaccines, which rely on the time it takes for the host's immune system to develop an effective defense. This rapid onset of protection is particularly well suited to containing outbreaks of emerging viral diseases. Despite these positive attributes, the high cost associated with antibody manufacture and the need for a cold chain for storage and transport limit their deployment on a global scale, especially in areas with limited resources. The in vivo transfer of nucleic acid-based technologies encoding optimized therapeutic antibodies transform the body into a bioreactor for rapid and sustained production of biologics and hold great promise for circumventing the obstacles faced by the traditional delivery of antibodies. In this review, we provide an overview of the different antibody delivery strategies that are currently being developed, with particular emphasis on in vivo transfection of naked plasmid DNA facilitated by electroporation.
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8
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Meglič SH, Pavlin M. The impact of impaired DNA mobility on gene electrotransfer efficiency: analysis in 3D model. Biomed Eng Online 2021; 20:85. [PMID: 34419072 PMCID: PMC8379608 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-021-00922-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gene electrotransfer is an established method that enables transfer of DNA into cells with electric pulses. Several studies analyzed and optimized different parameters of gene electrotransfer, however, one of main obstacles toward efficient electrotransfection in vivo is relatively poor DNA mobility in tissues. Our aim was to analyze the effect of impaired mobility on gene electrotransfer efficiency experimentally and theoretically. We applied electric pulses with different durations on plated cells, cells grown on collagen layer and cells embedded in collagen gel (3D model) and analyzed gene electrotransfer efficiency. In order to analyze the effect of impaired mobility on gene electrotransfer efficiency, we applied electric pulses with different durations on plated cells, cells grown on collagen layer and cells embedded in collagen gel (3D model) and analyzed gene electrotransfer efficiency. Results We obtained the highest transfection in plated cells, while transfection efficiency of embedded cells in 3D model was lowest, similarly as in in vivo. To further analyze DNA diffusion in 3D model, we applied DNA on top or injected it into 3D model and showed, that for the former gene electrotransfer efficiency was similarly as in in vivo. The experimental results are explained with theoretical analysis of DNA diffusion and electromobility. Conclusion We show, empirically and theoretically that DNA has impaired electromobility and especially diffusion in collagen environment, where the latter crucially limits electrotransfection. Our model enables optimization of gene electrotransfer in in vitro conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saša Haberl Meglič
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Laboratory of Biocybernetics, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška 25, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mojca Pavlin
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biophysics, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia. .,Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Group for Nano and Biotechnological Applications, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška 25, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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9
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Foroutan M, Barati M, Ghaffarifar F. Enhancing immune responses by a novel multi-epitope ROP8 DNA vaccine plus interleukin-12 plasmid as a genetic adjuvant against acute Toxoplasma gondii infection in BALB/c mice. Microb Pathog 2020; 147:104435. [PMID: 32768514 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is a widespread zoonotic infection, caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan. The infection is often asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, although in persons with impaired immune system may lead to severe and progressive complications. Constant attempts of scientists have made valuable findings in the development of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) candidate vaccines. However, an effective vaccine has not been successfully developed yet. In the current study, we tested the co-delivery of a novel multi-epitope pcROP8 DNA vaccine with a plasmid encoding IL-12 (pcIL-12) to assess the immune responses in BALB/c mice against acute T. gondii infection. METHODS BALB/c mice were immunized on days 0, 21, and 42. The immune responses of both vaccinated and control groups were evaluated using cytokine and antibody measurements, lymphocyte proliferation assay, and survival time. RESULTS The findings demonstrated that immunization with multi-epitope pcROP8 significantly enhanced the level of anti-T. gondii antibodies, TH1-type cellular immune responses, lymphocyte proliferation, and prolonged survival time, compared to control groups (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the use of pcIL-12 as a genetic adjuvant led to enhancements of the above-mentioned immune responses in BALB/c mice (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The co-administration of pcIL-12 with multi-epitope pcROP8 vaccine, could successfully enhance the level of protection. Thus, this immunization regimen may represent an effective vaccine strategy against acute T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Foroutan
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Barati
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Ghaffarifar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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10
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Andrews CD, Huang Y, Ho DD, Liberatore RA. In vivo expressed biologics for infectious disease prophylaxis: rapid delivery of DNA-based antiviral antibodies. Emerg Microbes Infect 2020; 9:1523-1533. [PMID: 32579067 PMCID: PMC7473320 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2020.1787108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
With increasing frequency, humans are facing outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) with the potential to cause significant morbidity and mortality. In the most extreme instances, such outbreaks can become pandemics, as we are now witnessing with COVID-19. According to the World Health Organization, this new disease, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has already infected more than 10 million people worldwide and led to 499,913 deaths as of 29 June, 2020. How high these numbers will eventually go depends on many factors, including policies on travel and movement, availability of medical support, and, because there is no vaccine or highly effective treatment, the pace of biomedical research. Other than an approved antiviral drug that can be repurposed, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) hold the most promise for providing a stopgap measure to lessen the impact of an outbreak while vaccines are in development. Technical advances in mAb identification, combined with the flexibility and clinical experience of mAbs in general, make them ideal candidates for rapid deployment. Furthermore, the development of mAb cocktails can provide a faster route to developing a robust medical intervention than searching for a single, outstanding mAb. In addition, mAbs are well-suited for integration into platform technologies for delivery, in which minimal components need to be changed in order to be redirected against a novel pathogen. In particular, utilizing the manufacturing and logistical benefits of DNA-based platform technologies in order to deliver one or more antiviral mAbs has the potential to revolutionize EID responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yaoxing Huang
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, New York, NY, USA.,Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicans and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - David D Ho
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, New York, NY, USA.,Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicans and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
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11
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Foroutan M, Ghaffarifar F, Sharifi Z, Dalimi A. Vaccination with a novel multi-epitope ROP8 DNA vaccine against acute Toxoplasma gondii infection induces strong B and T cell responses in mice. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 69:101413. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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12
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Peri D, Deville M, Poignard C, Signori E, Natalini R. Numerical optimization of plasmid DNA delivery combined with hyaluronidase injection for electroporation protocol. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2020; 186:105204. [PMID: 31760303 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2019.105204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The paper focuses on the numerical strategies to optimize a plasmid DNA delivery protocol, which combines hyaluronidase and electroporation. METHODS A well-defined continuum mechanics model of muscle porosity and advanced numerical optimization strategies have been used, to propose a substantial improvement of a pre-existing experimental protocol of DNA transfer in mice. Our work suggests that a computational model might help in the definition of innovative therapeutic procedures, thanks to the fine tuning of all the involved experimental steps. This approach is particularly interesting in optimizing complex and costly protocols, to make in vivo DNA therapeutic protocols more effective. RESULTS Our preliminary work suggests that computational model might help in the definition of innovative therapeutic protocol, thanks to the fine tuning of all the involved operations. CONCLUSIONS This approach is particularly interesting in optimizing complex and costly protocols for which the number of degrees of freedom prevents a experimental test of the possible configuration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Peri
- CNR-IAC - National Research Council, Istituto per le Applicazioni del Calcolo "Mauro Picone" Via dei Taurini 19, Rome 00185, Italy.
| | - Manon Deville
- Team MONC, INRIA Bordeaux-Sud-Ouest, Institut de Mathématiques de Bordeaux, CNRS UMR 5251 & Université de Bordeaux, 351 cours de la Libération, Talence Cedex 33405, France
| | - Clair Poignard
- Team MONC, INRIA Bordeaux-Sud-Ouest, Institut de Mathématiques de Bordeaux, CNRS UMR 5251 & Université de Bordeaux, 351 cours de la Libération, Talence Cedex 33405, France
| | - Emanuela Signori
- CNR-IFT - National Research Council - Istituto di Farmacologia Traslazionale, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, Rome 00133, Italy.
| | - Roberto Natalini
- CNR-IAC - National Research Council, Istituto per le Applicazioni del Calcolo "Mauro Picone" Via dei Taurini 19, Rome 00185, Italy
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13
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Sokołowska E, Błachnio-Zabielska AU. A Critical Review of Electroporation as A Plasmid Delivery System in Mouse Skeletal Muscle. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112776. [PMID: 31174257 PMCID: PMC6600476 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The gene delivery to skeletal muscles is a promising strategy for the treatment of both muscular disorders (by silencing or overexpression of specific gene) and systemic secretion of therapeutic proteins. The use of a physical method like electroporation with plate or needle electrodes facilitates long-lasting gene silencing in situ. It has been reported that electroporation enhances the expression of the naked DNA gene in the skeletal muscle up to 100 times and decreases the changeability of the intramuscular expression. Coelectransfer of reporter genes such as green fluorescent protein (GFP), luciferase or beta-galactosidase allows the observation of correctly performed silencing in the muscles. Appropriate selection of plasmid injection volume and concentration, as well as electrotransfer parameters, such as the voltage, the length and the number of electrical pulses do not cause long-term damage to myocytes. In this review, we summarized the electroporation methodology as well as the procedure of electrotransfer to the gastrocnemius, tibialis, soleus and foot muscles and compare their advantages and disadvantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Sokołowska
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-222 Bialystok, Poland.
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Foroutan M, Ghaffarifar F, Sharifi Z, Dalimi A, Jorjani O. Rhoptry antigens as Toxoplasma gondii vaccine target. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2019; 8:4-26. [PMID: 30775347 PMCID: PMC6369123 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2019.8.1.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a cosmopolitan zoonotic infection, caused by a unicellular protozoan parasite known as Toxoplasma gondii that belongs to the phylum Apicomplexa. It is estimated that over one-third of the world's population has been exposed and are latently infected with the parasite. In humans, toxoplasmosis is predominantly asymptomatic in immunocompetent persons, while among immunocompromised individuals may be cause severe and progressive complications with poor prognosis. Moreover, seronegative pregnant mothers are other risk groups for acquiring the infection. The life cycle of T. gondii is very complex, indicating the presence of a plurality of antigenic epitopes. Despite of great advances, recognize and construct novel vaccines for prevent and control of toxoplasmosis in both humans and animals is still remains a great challenge for researchers to select potential protein sequences as the ideal antigens. Notably, in several past years, constant efforts of researchers have made considerable advances to elucidate the different aspects of the cell and molecular biology of T. gondii mainly on microneme antigens, dense granule antigens, surface antigens, and rhoptry proteins (ROP). These attempts thereby provided great impetus to the present focus on vaccine development, according to the defined subcellular components of the parasite. Although, currently there is no commercial vaccine for use in humans. Among the main identified T. gondii antigens, ROPs appear as a putative vaccine candidate that are vital for invasion procedure as well as survival within host cells. Overall, it is estimated that they occupy about 1%–30% of the total parasite cell volume. In this review, we have summarized the recent progress of ROP-based vaccine development through various strategies from DNA vaccines, epitope or multi epitope-based vaccines, recombinant protein vaccines to vaccines based on live-attenuated vectors and prime-boost strategies in different mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Foroutan
- Abadan School of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Ghaffarifar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Sharifi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolhosein Dalimi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ogholniaz Jorjani
- Laboratory Science Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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15
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A Continuum Mechanics Model of Enzyme-Based Tissue Degradation in Cancer Therapies. Bull Math Biol 2018; 80:3184-3226. [DOI: 10.1007/s11538-018-0515-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Abstract
Electrotransfection (ET) is a nonviral method for delivery of various types of molecules into cells both in vitro and in vivo. Close to 90 clinical trials that involve the use of ET have been performed, and approximately half of them are related to cancer treatment. Particularly, ET is an attractive technique for cancer immunogene therapy because treatment of cells with electric pulses alone can induce immune responses to solid tumors, and the responses can be further enhanced by ET of plasmid DNA (pDNA) encoding therapeutic genes. Compared to other gene delivery methods, ET has several unique advantages. It is relatively inexpensive, flexible, and safe in clinical applications, and introduces only naked pDNA into cells without the use of additional chemicals or viruses. However, the efficiency of ET is still low, partly because biological mechanisms of ET in cells remain elusive. In previous studies, it was believed that pDNA entered the cells through transient pores created by electric pulses. As a result, the technique is commonly referred to as electroporation. However, recent discoveries have suggested that endocytosis plays an important role in cellular uptake and intracellular transport of electrotransfected pDNA. This review will discuss current progresses in the study of biological mechanisms underlying ET and future directions of research in this area. Understanding the mechanisms of pDNA transport in cells is critical for the development of new strategies for improving the efficiency of gene delivery in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D Cervia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina 27708 , United States
| | - Fan Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina 27708 , United States
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Foroutan M, Ghaffarifar F. Calcium-dependent protein kinases are potential targets for Toxoplasma gondii vaccine. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2018; 7:24-36. [PMID: 29399577 PMCID: PMC5795042 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2018.7.1.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii belongs to the Apicomplexa phylum that caused a widespread zoonotic infection in wide range of intermediate hosts. Over one-third of the world's population are latently infected with T. gondii and carry it. The complex life cycle of T. gondii indicates the presence of a plurality of antigenic epitopes. During the recent years, continuous efforts of scientists have made precious advances to elucidate the different aspects of the cell and molecular biology of T. gondii. Despite of great progresses, the development of vaccine candidates for preventing of T. gondii infection in men and animals is still remains a challenge. The calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) belongs to the superfamily of kinases, which restricted to the apicomplexans, ciliates, and plants. It has been documented that they contribute several functions in the life cycle of T. gondii such as gliding motility, cell invasion, and egress as well as some other critical developmental processes. In current paper, we reviewed the recent progress concerning the development of CDPK-based vaccines against acute and chronic T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Foroutan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Ghaffarifar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Peptides mediating DNA transport on microtubules and their impact on non-viral gene transfer efficiency. Biosci Rep 2017; 37:BSR20170995. [PMID: 28899926 PMCID: PMC5643739 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20170995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic vectors such as cationic polymers and cationic lipids remain attractive tools for non-viral gene transfer which is a complex process whose effectiveness relies on the ability to deliver a plasmid DNA (pDNA) into the nucleus of non-dividing cells. Once in the cytosol, the transport of pDNAs towards the nuclear envelope is strongly impaired by their very low cytosolic mobility due to their large size. To promote their movement towards the cell nucleus, few strategies have been implemented to exploit dynein, the microtubule’s (MT’s) motor protein, for propagation of cytosolic pDNA along the MTs towards the cell nucleus. In the first part of this review, an overview on MTs, dynein, dynein/virus interaction feature is presented followed by a summary of the results obtained by exploitation of LC8 and TCTEL1 dynein light chain association sequence (DLC-AS) for non-viral transfection. The second part dedicated to the adenoviral protein E3-14.7K, reports the transfection efficiency of polyplexes and lipoplexes containing the E3-14.7K-derived P79-98 peptide linked to pDNA. Here, several lines of evidence are given showing that dynein can be targeted to improve cytosolic pDNA mobility and accumulate pDNA near nuclear envelope in order to facilitate its transport through the nuclear pores. The linkage of various DLC-AS to pDNA carriers led to modest transfection improvements and their direct interaction with MTs was not demonstrated. In contrast, pDNA linked to the P79-98 peptide interacting with TCTEL1 via a cytosolic protein (fourteen seven K-interacting protein-1 (FIP-1)), interaction with MTs is evidenced in cellulo and transfection efficiency is improved.
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Spanggaard I, Dahlstroem K, Laessoee L, Hansen RH, Johannesen HH, Hendel HW, Bouquet C, Attali P, Gehl J. Gene therapy for patients with advanced solid tumors: a phase I study using gene electrotransfer to muscle with the integrin inhibitor plasmid AMEP. Acta Oncol 2017; 56:909-916. [PMID: 28438067 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2017.1315171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene electrotrotransfer describes the use of electric pulses to transfer DNA to cells. Particularly skeletal muscle has potential for systemic secretion of therapeutic proteins. Gene electrotransfer to muscle using the integrin inhibitor plasmid AMEP (Antiangiogenic MEtargidin Peptide) was investigated in a phase I dose escalation study. Primary objective was safety. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients with metastatic or locally advanced solid tumors, without further standard treatments available, were treated with once-only gene electrotransfer of plasmid AMEP to the femoral muscle. Safety was monitored by adverse events registration, visual analog scale (VAS) after procedure and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of treated muscles. Pharmacokinetics of plasmid AMEP in plasma and urine was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Response was evaluated by positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) scans. RESULTS Seven patients were enrolled and treated at dose levels from 50 to 250 μg of plasmid AMEP, the study was terminated early due to cessation of plasmid production. Minimal systemic toxicity was observed and only transient mild pain was associated with the delivery of the electric pulses. MRI of the treated muscles revealed discrete intramuscular edema 24 h after treatment. The changes in the muscle tissue resolved within 2 weeks after treatment. Peak concentrations of plasmid AMEP was detected only in plasma within the first 24 hours after injection. Protein AMEP could not be detected, which could be due to the limit of detection. No objective responses were seen. CONCLUSIONS Gene electrotransfer of plasmid AMEP was found to be safe and tolerable. No objective responses were observed but other DNA drugs may be tested in the future using this procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iben Spanggaard
- Center for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospitals Herlev, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Karin Dahlstroem
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospitals Herlev, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Line Laessoee
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospitals Herlev, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Rasmus Hvass Hansen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospitals Herlev, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | - Helle Westergren Hendel
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospitals Herlev, Herlev, Denmark
| | | | | | - Julie Gehl
- Center for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospitals Herlev, Herlev, Denmark
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Tiptiri-Kourpeti A, Spyridopoulou K, Pappa A, Chlichlia K. DNA vaccines to attack cancer: Strategies for improving immunogenicity and efficacy. Pharmacol Ther 2016; 165:32-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Akerstrom T, Vedel K, Needham J, Hojman P, Kontou E, Hellsten Y, Wojtaszewski JF. Optimizing hyaluronidase dose and plasmid DNA delivery greatly improves gene electrotransfer efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. Biochem Biophys Rep 2015; 4:342-350. [PMID: 29124223 PMCID: PMC5669402 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfection of rat skeletal muscle in vivo is a widely used research model. However, gene electrotransfer protocols have been developed for mice and yield variable results in rats. We investigated whether changes in hyaluronidase pre-treatment and plasmid DNA delivery can improve transfection efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. We found that pre-treating the muscle with a hyaluronidase dose suitable for rats (0.56 U/g b.w.) prior to plasmid DNA injection increased transfection efficiency by >200% whereas timing of the pre-treatment did not affect efficiency. Uniformly distributing plasmid DNA delivery across the muscle by increasing the number of plasmid DNA injections further enhanced transfection efficiency whereas increasing plasmid dose from 0.2 to 1.6 µg/g b.w. or vehicle volume had no effect. The optimized protocol resulted in ~80% (CI95%: 79–84%) transfected muscle fibers with a homogenous distribution. We also show that transfection was stable over five weeks of regular exercise or inactivity. Our findings show that species-specific plasmid DNA delivery and hyaluronidase pre-treatment greatly improves transfection efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. Parameters for effective in vivo skeletal muscle transfection are species specific. Pre-treatment with a rat-specific hyaluronidase dose greatly improves transfection efficiency. Delivering plasmid DNA more uniformly enhances transfection efficiency in rat skeletal muscle. Transfection efficiency is not improved by increasing plasmid DNA dose. Exercise training does not affect transfection stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorbjorn Akerstrom
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence to: The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 13, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. Fax: +4535320870.The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of CopenhagenUniversitetsparken 13CopenhagenDK-2100Denmark
| | - Kenneth Vedel
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Josefine Needham
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pernille Hojman
- Centre of Inflammation and Metabolism, Centre for Physical Activity Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eftychia Kontou
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ylva Hellsten
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen F.P. Wojtaszewski
- The August Krogh Centre, Section of Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Mahajan V, Gaymalov Z, Alakhova D, Gupta R, Zucker IH, Kabanov AV. Horizontal gene transfer from macrophages to ischemic muscles upon delivery of naked DNA with Pluronic block copolymers. Biomaterials 2015; 75:58-70. [PMID: 26480472 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Intramuscular administration of plasmid DNA (pDNA) with non-ionic Pluronic block copolymers increases gene expression in injected muscles and lymphoid organs. We studied the role of immune cells in muscle transfection upon inflammation. Local inflammation in murine hind limb ischemia model (MHLIM) drastically increased DNA, RNA and expressed protein levels in ischemic muscles injected with pDNA/Pluronic. The systemic inflammation (MHLIM or peritonitis) also increased expression of pDNA/Pluronic in the muscles. When pDNA/Pluronic was injected in ischemic muscles the reporter gene, Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) co-localized with desmin(+) muscle fibers and CD11b(+) macrophages (MØs), suggesting transfection of MØs along with the muscle cells. P85 enhanced (∼ 4 orders) transfection of MØs with pDNA in vitro. Moreover, adoptively transferred MØs were shown to pass the transgene to inflamed muscle cells in MHLIM. Using a co-culture of myotubes (MTs) and transfected MØs expressing a reporter gene under constitutive (cmv-luciferase) or muscle specific (desmin-luciferase) promoter we demonstrated that P85 enhances horizontal gene transfer from MØ to MTs. Therefore, MØs can play an important role in muscle transfection with pDNA/Pluronic during inflammation, with both inflammation and Pluronic contributing to the increased gene expression. pDNA/Pluronic has potential for therapeutic gene delivery in muscle pathologies that involve inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Mahajan
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5850, USA
| | - Zagit Gaymalov
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5850, USA
| | - Daria Alakhova
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Richa Gupta
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Irving H Zucker
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5850, USA
| | - Alexander V Kabanov
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5850, USA; Laboratory of Chemical Design of Bionanomaterials, Faculty of Chemistry, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119899 Moscow, Russia.
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Magalhães S, Duarte S, Monteiro GA, Fernandes F. Quantitative evaluation of DNA dissociation from liposome carriers and DNA escape from endosomes during lipid-mediated gene delivery. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2015; 25:303-13. [PMID: 25285806 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2014.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonviral vectors are highly attractive for gene therapy from a clinical point of view, and cationic lipid nanoparticles in particular have generated considerable interest. However, despite considerable recent advances, problems associated with low transfection efficiencies remain to be resolved to fully meet the potential of these vectors. The trafficking of plasmid DNA (pDNA) from the extracellular space up to the nucleus is prevented by several barriers, including liposome/pDNA dissociation within the endosome and pDNA escape into the cytosol. The aim of this work was to develop and optimize a tool that could offer simultaneous quantitative information both on the intracellular dissociation of oligonucleotides from lipid nanoparticles, and on the DNA escape from endocytic compartments. The ability to follow in real time both of these processes simultaneously (in a quantitative manner) is expected to be of high value in the rationalization and conception of new lipid nanoparticle vectors for gene delivery for therapeutic purposes. To this effect, a combination of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and colocalization microscopy was employed. We show that it is possible to distinguish between liposome/pDNA dissociation and depletion of DNA within endosomes, providing resolution for the detection of intermediate species between endocytic particles with intact lipoplexes and endosomes devoid of DNA because of DNA escape or degradation. We demonstrate that after endocytosis, exceptionally few endocytic particles are found to exhibit simultaneously DNA/lipid colocalization and low FRET (DNA/lipid dissociation). These results clearly point to an extremely short-lived state for free plasmid within endosomes, which either escapes at once to the cytosol or is degraded within the endocytic compartment (because of exposure of DNA). It is possible that this limitation greatly contributes to reduction in probability of successful gene delivery through cationic lipid particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salomé Magalhães
- 1 Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centre for Chemical and Biological Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa , 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
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Markelc B, Skvarca E, Dolinsek T, Kloboves VP, Coer A, Sersa G, Cemazar M. Inhibitor of endocytosis impairs gene electrotransfer to mouse muscle in vivo. Bioelectrochemistry 2015; 103:111-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2014.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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25
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Mahindhoratep S, Bouda HA, El Shafey N, Scherman D, Kichler A, Pichon C, Midoux P, Mignet N, Bureau MF. NF-kB related transgene expression in mouse tibial cranial muscle after pDNA injection followed or not by electrotransfer. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2014; 1840:3257-63. [PMID: 24973564 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2014.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND When activated, NF-κB can promote the nuclear import and transcription of DNA possessing NF-κB consensus sequences. Here, we investigated whether NF-κB is involved in the plasmid electrotransfer process. METHODS Mouse tibial cranial muscles were transfected with plasmids encoding luciferase bearing or not NF-κB consensus sequences. Luciferase transgene expression was evaluated noninvasively by luminescence imaging and the number of pDNA copies in the same muscles by qPCR. RT-PCR of heat shock protein HsP70 mRNA evidenced cell stress. Western blots of phosphorylated IkBα were studied as a marker of NF-κB activation. RESULTS Intra-muscular injection of a plasmid bearing a weak TATA-like promoter results in a very low muscle transfection level. Electrotransfer significantly increased both the number of pDNA copy and the transgene expression of this plasmid per DNA copy. Insertion of NF-κB consensus sequences into pDNA significantly increased the level of gene expression both with and without electrotransfer. Electrotransfer-induced cellular stress was evidenced by increased HsP70 mRNA. Phosphorylated IκBα was slightly increased by simple pDNA injection and a little more by electrotransfer. We also observed a basal level of phosphorylated IκBα and thus of free NF-κB in the absence of any stimulation. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE pDNA electrotransfer can increase transgene expression independently of NF-κB. The insertion of NF-κB consensus sequences into pDNA bearing a weak TATA-like promoter leads to enhanced transgene expression in muscle with or without gene electrotransfer. Finally, our results suggest that the basal amount of free NF-κB in muscle might be sufficient to enhance the activity of pDNA bearing NF-κB consensus sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mahindhoratep
- U1022 INSERM, UMR8258 CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Chimie ParisTech, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4 Avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - H Ait Bouda
- U1022 INSERM, UMR8258 CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Chimie ParisTech, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4 Avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Nelly El Shafey
- U1022 INSERM, UMR8258 CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Chimie ParisTech, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4 Avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - D Scherman
- U1022 INSERM, UMR8258 CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Chimie ParisTech, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4 Avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - A Kichler
- V-SAT, UMR7199 CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, Faculté de Pharmacie, 67401 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Ch Pichon
- UPR4301 CNRS, rue Charles Sadron, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
| | - P Midoux
- UPR4301 CNRS, rue Charles Sadron, 45071 Orléans Cedex 02, France
| | - N Mignet
- U1022 INSERM, UMR8258 CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Chimie ParisTech, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4 Avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - M F Bureau
- U1022 INSERM, UMR8258 CNRS, Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques pour la Santé, Chimie ParisTech, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4 Avenue de l'Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
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Cazorla SI, Frank FM, Malchiodi EL. Vaccination approaches againstTrypanosoma cruziinfection. Expert Rev Vaccines 2014; 8:921-35. [DOI: 10.1586/erv.09.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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27
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Kósa M, Zádor E. Transfection efficiency along the regenerating soleus muscle of the rat. Mol Biotechnol 2013; 54:220-7. [PMID: 22580850 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-012-9555-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the efficiency of a single plasmid transfection along the longitudinal axis of the regenerating soleus of young rats. This also reflected transfection efficiency along the fibers because the soleus is a nearly fusiform muscle in young animals. The complete regeneration was induced by notexin and the transfection was made by intramuscular injection of enhanced green fluorescent protein- or Discosoma red-coding plasmids after 4 days. One week after transfection the number of transfected fibers was higher at the place of injection (i.e., in the muscle belly) and lower or absent at the ends of the muscle. The inspection of longitudinal sections and neuromuscular endplates indicated that one of the reasons of uneven transfection might be the shortness of transfected myotubes and the other reason might be the limit of diffusion of transgenic proteins from the expressing nuclei. As a result, the efficiency of transfection in the whole regenerating muscle was much lower than it could be estimated from the most successfully transfected part.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdolna Kósa
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.
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Meacham JM, Durvasula K, Degertekin FL, Fedorov AG. Physical methods for intracellular delivery: practical aspects from laboratory use to industrial-scale processing. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 19:1-18. [PMID: 23813915 DOI: 10.1177/2211068213494388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Effective intracellular delivery is a significant impediment to research and therapeutic applications at all processing scales. Physical delivery methods have long demonstrated the ability to deliver cargo molecules directly to the cytoplasm or nucleus, and the mechanisms underlying the most common approaches (microinjection, electroporation, and sonoporation) have been extensively investigated. In this review, we discuss established approaches, as well as emerging techniques (magnetofection, optoinjection, and combined modalities). In addition to operating principles and implementation strategies, we address applicability and limitations of various in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo platforms. Importantly, we perform critical assessments regarding (1) treatment efficacy with diverse cell types and delivered cargo molecules, (2) suitability to different processing scales (from single cell to large populations), (3) suitability for automation/integration with existing workflows, and (4) multiplexing potential and flexibility/adaptability to enable rapid changeover between treatments of varied cell types. Existing techniques typically fall short in one or more of these criteria; however, introduction of micro-/nanotechnology concepts, as well as synergistic coupling of complementary method(s), can improve performance and applicability of a particular approach, overcoming barriers to practical implementation. For this reason, we emphasize these strategies in examining recent advances in development of delivery systems.
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Haberl S, Kandušer M, Flisar K, Hodžić D, Bregar VB, Miklavčič D, Escoffre JM, Rols MP, Pavlin M. Effect of different parameters used forin vitrogene electrotransfer on gene expression efficiency, cell viability and visualization of plasmid DNA at the membrane level. J Gene Med 2013; 15:169-81. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2012] [Revised: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Saša Haberl
- University of Ljubljana; Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Laboratory of Biocybernetics; Ljubljana; Slovenija
| | - Maša Kandušer
- University of Ljubljana; Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Laboratory of Biocybernetics; Ljubljana; Slovenija
| | - Karel Flisar
- University of Ljubljana; Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Laboratory of Biocybernetics; Ljubljana; Slovenija
| | - Duša Hodžić
- University of Ljubljana; Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Laboratory of Biocybernetics; Ljubljana; Slovenija
| | | | - Damijan Miklavčič
- University of Ljubljana; Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Laboratory of Biocybernetics; Ljubljana; Slovenija
| | - Jean-Michel Escoffre
- Inserm UMR 930 Imagerie et Cerveau, Université François-Rabelais de Tours, PRES Val de Loire Université; Tours; France
| | - Marie-Pierre Rols
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, IPBS-CNRS UMR5089, Université de Toulouse III; Toulouse; France
| | - Mojca Pavlin
- University of Ljubljana; Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Group for Nano and Biotechnological Applications; Ljubljana; Slovenija
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Langer B, Renner M, Scherer J, Schüle S, Cichutek K. Safety assessment of biolistic DNA vaccination. Methods Mol Biol 2013; 940:371-388. [PMID: 23104355 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-110-3_27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
DNA-based vector systems have been widely studied as new modalities for the prevention and treatment of human diseases. As for all other medicinal products, safety is an important aspect in the evaluation of such products. In this chapter we reflect on the basic safety issues which have been raised with respect to preventive and therapeutic DNA vaccines, including insertional mutagenesis in case of chromosomal integration, possible formation of anti-DNA antibodies, induction of autoimmune responses and/or immunological tolerance. In addition, local reactions at the site of administration and adverse effects resulting from plasmid DNA spread to nontarget tissues are discussed. Most importantly, however, the benefit-risk profile of a medicinal product is crucial for a decision on providing marketing authorization or not. A product has an acceptable benefit-risk profile if the benefits of the product outweigh its risks for the treated patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Langer
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
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Galling N, Kobelt D, Aumann J, Schmidt M, Wittig B, Schlag PM, Walther W. Intratumoral dispersion, retention, systemic biodistribution, and clearance of a small-size tumor necrosis factor-α-expressing MIDGE vector after nonviral in vivo jet-injection gene transfer. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2012; 23:264-70. [PMID: 22924532 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2012.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
For nonviral applications of therapeutic DNA, highly efficient and safe vector systems are of crucial importance. In the majority of nonviral approaches plasmid vectors are in use. A novel minimalistic gene expression vector (MIDGE) has been developed to overcome the limitations of plasmid vectors. This small-size double-stranded linear DNA vector has shown improved transgene expression. However, only limited knowledge on uptake, biodistribution, and clearance of this vector exists. In this study we investigated the intratumoral and systemic biodistribution, clearance, and expression kinetics of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-carrying MIDGE-CMVhTNF vector in NMRI-nu/nu mice with subcutaneously xenotransplanted human A375 melanoma. Biodistribution was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR in tumors, blood, and organs 0 to 60 min and 3 to 48 hr after intratumoral jet-injection of 50 μg of MIDGE-CMVhTNF. We examined TNF mRNA expression in tumor tissue and organs, using real-time RT-PCR and TNF-specific ELISA. High levels of MIDGE DNA in the tumor tissue demonstrated efficient gene transfer of the small-size vector, resulting in inhomogeneous DNA dispersion and efficient transgene expression. Intratumoral jet-injection of the vector DNA was accompanied by leakage into the blood circuit and appearance in peripheral organs within 5 min to 6 hr. However, this did not lead to TNF-α expression and was followed by rapid vector clearance resulting in the disappearance of MIDGE DNA 24 hr after gene transfer. These data provide important new information for the kinetics of intratumoral and systemic biodistribution and rapid clearance of the jet-injected small-size MIDGE vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Galling
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany
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32
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Bureau MF, Wasungu L, Jugé L, Scherman D, Rols MP, Mignet N. Investigating relationship between transfection and permeabilization by the electric field and/or the Pluronic® L64 in vitro and in vivo. J Gene Med 2012; 14:204-15. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
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33
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Wu M, Yuan F. Membrane binding of plasmid DNA and endocytic pathways are involved in electrotransfection of mammalian cells. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20923. [PMID: 21695134 PMCID: PMC3113837 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Electric field mediated gene delivery or electrotransfection is a widely used method in various studies ranging from basic cell biology research to clinical gene therapy. Yet, mechanisms of electrotransfection are still controversial. To this end, we investigated the dependence of electrotransfection efficiency (eTE) on binding of plasmid DNA (pDNA) to plasma membrane and how treatment of cells with three endocytic inhibitors (chlorpromazine, genistein, dynasore) or silencing of dynamin expression with specific, small interfering RNA (siRNA) would affect the eTE. Our data demonstrated that the presence of divalent cations (Ca(2+) and Mg(2+)) in electrotransfection buffer enhanced pDNA adsorption to cell membrane and consequently, this enhanced adsorption led to an increase in eTE, up to a certain threshold concentration for each cation. Trypsin treatment of cells at 10 min post electrotransfection stripped off membrane-bound pDNA and resulted in a significant reduction in eTE, indicating that the time period for complete cellular uptake of pDNA (between 10 and 40 min) far exceeded the lifetime of electric field-induced transient pores (∼10 msec) in the cell membrane. Furthermore, treatment of cells with the siRNA and all three pharmacological inhibitors yielded substantial and statistically significant reductions in the eTE. These findings suggest that electrotransfection depends on two mechanisms: (i) binding of pDNA to cell membrane and (ii) endocytosis of membrane-bound pDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Fan Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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van den Berg JH, Nuijen B, Schumacher TN, Haanen JBAG, Storm G, Beijnen JH, Hennink WE. Synthetic vehicles for DNA vaccination. J Drug Target 2010; 18:1-14. [PMID: 19814658 DOI: 10.3109/10611860903278023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
DNA vaccination is an attractive immunization method able to induce robust cellular immune responses in pre-clinical models. However, clinical DNA vaccination trials performed thus far have resulted in marginal responses. Consequently, strategies are currently under development to improve the efficacy of DNA vaccines. A promising strategy is the use of synthetic particle formulations as carrier systems for DNA vaccines. This review discusses commonly used synthetic carriers for DNA vaccination and provides an overview of in vivo studies that use this strategy. Future recommendations on particle characteristics, target cell types and evaluation models are suggested for the potential improvement of current and novel particle delivery systems. Finally, hurdles which need to be tackled for clinical evaluation of these systems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost H van den Berg
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Slotervaart Hospital, Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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35
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Gene Transfer: How Can the Biological Barriers Be Overcome? J Membr Biol 2010; 236:61-74. [DOI: 10.1007/s00232-010-9275-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2010] [Accepted: 06/11/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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36
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Klinman DM, Klaschik S, Tross D, Shirota H, Steinhagen F. FDA guidance on prophylactic DNA vaccines: analysis and recommendations. Vaccine 2010; 28:2801-5. [PMID: 19941989 PMCID: PMC2847045 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2009.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2009] [Accepted: 11/06/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The FDA has been regulating the conduct of prophylactic DNA vaccine trials in the US for nearly 15 years. This work describes the evolution of FDA policy over that period, the status of current regulatory guidance, and provides recommendations for further changes to facilitate development in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis M Klinman
- Cancer and Inflammation Program, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
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Bacardí D, Amador-Cañizares Y, Cosme K, Urquiza D, Suárez J, Marante J, Viña A, Vázquez A, Concepción J, Pupo M, Aldana L, Soria Y, Romero J, Madrigal R, Martínez L, Hernández L, González I, Dueñas-Carrera S. Toxicology and biodistribution study of CIGB-230, a DNA vaccine against hepatitis C virus. Hum Exp Toxicol 2009; 28:479-91. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327109106438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
CIGB-230, a mixture of a DNA plasmid expressing hepatitis C virus (HCV) structural antigens and a HCV recombinant capsid protein, has demonstrated to elicit strong immune responses in animals. The present study evaluated the plasmid biodistribution after the administration of CIGB-230 in mice, as well as toxicity of this vaccine candidate in rats. In the biodistribution study, mice received single or repeated intramuscular injections of CIGB-230, 50 μg of plasmid DNA mixed with 5 μg of Co.120 protein. Plasmid presence was assessed in ovaries, kidney, liver, pancreas, mesenteric ganglion, blood, and muscle of the injection site by a qualitative polymerase chain reaction. The toxicology evaluation included treatment groups receiving doses 5, 15, or 50 times higher, according to the body weight, than the expected therapeutic clinical dose. During the first hour after repeated inoculation, a promiscuous distribution was observed. However, 3 months later, plasmid could not be detected in any tissue. There was an absence of detectable adverse effects on key toxicology parameters and no damage evidenced in inspected organs and tissues. These results indicate that CIGB-230 is nontoxic at local and systemic levels and no concerns about persistence are observed, which support clinical testing of this vaccine candidate against HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dania Bacardí
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba,
| | | | - Karelia Cosme
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Dioslaida Urquiza
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - José Suárez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Jeny Marante
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Ariel Viña
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Ariel Vázquez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Joel Concepción
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Maylín Pupo
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Lizet Aldana
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Yordanka Soria
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Juan Romero
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Roberto Madrigal
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Leticia Martínez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Lourdes Hernández
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
| | - Idania González
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cubanacán, Playa, Havana, Cuba
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38
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A 3D in vitro spheroid model as a way to study the mechanisms of electroporation. Int J Pharm 2009; 379:278-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2009.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2009] [Revised: 03/19/2009] [Accepted: 03/27/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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39
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Novel pentablock copolymers for selective gene delivery to cancer cells. Pharm Res 2009; 26:700-13. [PMID: 19142716 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-008-9813-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2008] [Accepted: 12/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In this study, the novel poly(diethylaminoethylmethacrylate) (PDEAEM)/Pluronic F127 pentablock copolymers were found to be able to mediate high-efficiency transfection of human epithelial ovarian carcinoma (SKOV3) cell line while showing significantly lower efficacy in human epithelial retinal (ARPE-19) cell line and Swiss Mouse Fibroblast (3T3) cell line. METHODS The intracellular routes of polyplexes were investigated by confocal microscopy after appropriately labeling the polymer and DNA. RESULTS It was found that lesser nuclear entry in the ARPE-19 cells may result in the lower efficiency of transfection. Since the SKOV3 proliferation rate was found to be much higher than that of the ARPE-19 cells, the nuclear entry of polyplexes was assumed to be correlated with the proliferation rate, and it was hypothesized that the novel pentablock copolymers could mediate gene delivery selectively in fast growing cells. The different intracellular barriers to gene transfer may also account for the observed difference of transfection efficacy. CONCLUSIONS Although the validity of the hypothesis that our pentablock copolymer could selectively transfect hyperproliferative cells needs further examination, this present work provides a new perspective to design targeting vectors for cancer therapies based on different characteristics among specific cell types.
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Walther W, Siegel R, Kobelt D, Knösel T, Dietel M, Bembenek A, Aumann J, Schleef M, Baier R, Stein U, Schlag PM. Novel jet-injection technology for nonviral intratumoral gene transfer in patients with melanoma and breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2009; 14:7545-53. [PMID: 19010873 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-08-0412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This phase I clinical trial evaluated safety, feasibility, and efficiency of nonviral intratumoral jet-injection gene transfer in patients with skin metastases from melanoma and breast cancer. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Seventeen patients were enrolled. The patients received five jet injections with a total dose of 0.05 mg beta-galactosidase (LacZ)-expressing plasmid DNA (pCMVbeta) into a single cutaneous lesion. Clinical and laboratory safety monitoring were done. Systemic plasmid clearance was monitored by quantitative real-time PCR of blood samples throughout the study. All lesions were resected after 2 to 6 days. Intratumoral plasmid DNA load, DNA distribution, and LacZ expression was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-beta-D-galactoside staining. RESULTS Jet injection of plasmid DNA was safely done in all patients. No serious side effects were observed. Thirty minutes after jet injection, peak plasmid DNA levels were detected in the blood followed by rapid decline and clearance. Plasmid DNA and LacZ mRNA and protein expression were detected in all treated lesions. Quantitative analysis revealed a correlation of plasmid DNA load and LacZ-mRNA expression confirmed by Western blot. Immunohistochemistry and 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-beta-D-galactoside staining showed LacZ-protein throughout the tumor. Transfected tumor areas were found close and distant to the jet-injection site with varying levels of DNA load and transgene expression. CONCLUSION Intratumoral jet injection of plasmid DNA led to efficient LacZ reporter gene expression in all patients. No side effects were experienced, supporting safety and applicability of this novel nonviral approach. A next step with a therapeutic gene product should determine antitumor efficacy of jet-injection gene transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Walther
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Gene Therapy Group at the Department of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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41
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Escoffre JM, Portet T, Wasungu L, Teissié J, Dean D, Rols MP. What is (still not) known of the mechanism by which electroporation mediates gene transfer and expression in cells and tissues. Mol Biotechnol 2008; 41:286-95. [PMID: 19016008 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-008-9121-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2008] [Accepted: 10/23/2008] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cell membranes can be transiently permeabilized under application of electric pulses. This treatment allows hydrophilic therapeutic molecules, such as anticancer drugs and DNA, to enter into cells and tissues. This process, called electropermeabilization or electroporation, has been rapidly developed over the last decade to deliver genes to tissues and organs, but there is a general agreement that very little is known about what is really occurring during membrane electropermeabilization. It is well accepted that the entry of small molecules, such as anticancer drugs, occurs mostly through simple diffusion after the pulse while the entry of macromolecules, such as DNA, occurs through a multistep mechanism involving the electrophoretically driven interaction of the DNA molecule with the destabilized membrane during the pulse and then its passage across the membrane. Therefore, successful DNA electrotransfer into cells depends not only on cell permeabilization but also on the way plasmid DNA interacts with the plasma membrane and, once into the cytoplasm, migrates towards the nucleus. The focus of this review is to describe the different aspects of what is known of the mechanism of membrane permeabilization and associated gene transfer and, by doing so, what are the actual limits of the DNA delivery into cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Michel Escoffre
- CNRS, IPBS (Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale), 205, Route de Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse, France
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Tevz G, Pavlin D, Kamensek U, Kranjc S, Mesojednik S, Coer A, Sersa G, Cemazar M. Gene electrotransfer into murine skeletal muscle: a systematic analysis of parameters for long-term gene expression. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2008; 7:91-101. [PMID: 18345697 DOI: 10.1177/153303460800700201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is an attractive target tissue for delivery of therapeutic genes, since it is well vascularized, easily accessible, and has a high capacity for protein synthesis. For efficient transfection in skeletal muscle, several protocols have been described, including delivery of low voltage electric pulses and a combination of high and low voltage electric pulses. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of different parameters of electrotransfection on short-term and long-term transfection efficiency in murine skeletal muscle, and to evaluate histological changes in the treated tissue. Different parameters of electric pulses, different time lags between plasmid DNA injection and application of electric pulses, and different doses of plasmid DNA were tested for electrotransfection of tibialis cranialis muscle of C57Bl/6 mice using DNA plasmid encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP). Transfection efficiency was assessed on frozen tissue sections one week after electrotransfection using a fluorescence microscope and also noninvasively, followed by an in vivo imaging system using a fluorescence stereo microscope over a period of several months. Histological changes in muscle were evaluated immediately or several months after electrotransfection by determining infiltration of inflammatory mononuclear cells and presence of necrotic muscle fibers. The most efficient electrotransfection into skeletal muscle of C57Bl/6 mice in our experiments was achieved when one high voltage (HV) and four low voltage (LV) electric pulses were applied 5 seconds after the injection of 30 microg of plasmid DNA. This protocol resulted in the highest short-term as well as long-term transfection. The fluorescence intensity of the transfected area declined after 2-3 weeks, but GFP fluorescence was still detectable 18 months after electrotransfection. Extensive inflammatory mononuclear cell infiltration was observed immediately after the electrotransfection procedure using the described parameters, but no necrosis or late tissue damage was observed. This study showed that electric pulse parameters, time lag between the injection of DNA and application of electric pulses, and dose of plasmid DNA affected the duration of transgene expression in murine skeletal muscle. Therefore, transgene expression in muscle can be controlled by appropriate selection of electrotransfection protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Tevz
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Orság P, Kvardová V, Raska M, Miller AD, Ledvina M, Turánek J. Quantitative real-time PCR study on persistence of pDNA vaccine pVax-Hsp60 TM814 in beef muscles. GENETIC VACCINES AND THERAPY 2008; 6:11. [PMID: 18761754 PMCID: PMC2542361 DOI: 10.1186/1479-0556-6-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2008] [Accepted: 09/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Application of plasmid DNA for immunization of food-producing animals established new standards of food safety. The addition of foreign products e.g. pDNA into the food chain should be carefully examined to ensure that neither livestock animals nor consumers develop unpredicted or undesirable side-effects. Methods A quantitative real-time PCR (QRTPCR) methodology was developed to study the biodistribution and persistence of plasmid DNA vaccine pDNAX (pVAX-Hsp60 TM814) in mice and beef cattle. The linear quantification range and the sensitivity of the method was found to be 10 – 109 copies per reaction (500 ng/gDNA) and 3 copies per reaction, respectively. Results Persistence of pDNAX in mice muscle tissue was restricted to injection site and the amount of pDNAX showed delivery formulation dependent (naked pDNA, electroporation, cationic liposome complexes) and mouse age-dependent clearance form injection site but pDNAX was still detectable even after 365 days. The QRTPCR analysis of various muscle tissue samples of vaccinated beef bulls performed 242–292 days after the last revaccination proved that residual pDNAX was found only in the injection site. The highest plasmid levels (up to 290 copies per reaction) were detected in the pDNAX:CDAN/DOPE group similarly to mice model. No pDNA was detected in the samples from distant muscles and draining lymph nodes. Conclusion Quantitative real-time PCR (QRTPCR) assay was developed to assess the residual pDNA vaccine pVAX-Hsp60 TM814 in mice and beef cattle. In beef cattle, ultra low residual level of pDNA vaccine was only found at the injection site. According to rough estimation, consumption of muscles from the injection site represents almost an undetectable intake of pDNA (400 fg/g muscle tissue) for consumers. Residual plasmid in native state will hardly be found at measurable level following further meat processing. This study brings supportive data for animal and food safety and hence for further approval of pDNA vaccine field trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petr Orság
- Veterinary Research Institute, Department of Immunology, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Tonheim TC, Bøgwald J, Dalmo RA. What happens to the DNA vaccine in fish? A review of current knowledge. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2008; 25:1-18. [PMID: 18448358 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2008.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2007] [Revised: 03/11/2008] [Accepted: 03/12/2008] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The primary function of DNA vaccines, a bacterial plasmid DNA containing a construct for a given protective antigen, is to establish specific and long-lasting protective immunity against diseases where conventional vaccines fail to induce protection. It is acknowledged that less effort has been made to study the fate, in terms of cellular uptake, persistence and degradation, of DNA vaccines after in vivo administration. However, during the last year some papers have given new insights into the fate of DNA vaccines in fish. By comparing the newly acquired information in fish with similar knowledge from studies in mammals, similarities with regard to transport, blood clearance, cellular uptake and degradation of DNA vaccines have been found. But the amount of DNA vaccine redistributed from the administration site after intramuscular administration seems to differ between fish and mammals. This review presents up-to-date and in-depth knowledge concerning the fate of DNA vaccines with emphasis on tissue distribution, cellular uptake and uptake mechanism(s) before finally describing the intracellular hurdles that DNA vaccines need to overcome in order to produce their gene product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Christian Tonheim
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, The Norwegian College of Fishery Science, University of Tromsø, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
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45
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Systemic IL-12 gene therapy for treating malignancy via intramuscular electroporation. Methods Mol Biol 2008. [PMID: 18370211 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-59745-194-9_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Interleukin 12 (IL-12) is effective in treating systemic microscopic malignancies by inducing T helper 1 (T(H)1) response, inhibiting angiogenesis, and triggering secondary cytokine production. Unfortunately, daily systemic administration of an acute dose of IL-12 protein is very costly and severely toxic. Here, a simple, economic, and less toxic approach, intramuscular administration of IL-12 gene, is provided for treating tumors in three tumor models. The results indicate that intramuscular administration of IL-12 encoding plasmid DNA via electroporation is a promising technology for treating systemic residual malignancies (less than 3-5 mm in diameter), as illustrated by the inhibition of tumor growth and lung metastases as well as the extension of survival rate. This approach is not effective in treating tumors larger than 3-5 mm in diameter.
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Rols MP. Mechanism by which electroporation mediates DNA migration and entry into cells and targeted tissues. Methods Mol Biol 2008; 423:19-33. [PMID: 18370188 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-59745-194-9_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Cell membranes can be transiently permeabilized under application of electric pulses that allow hydrophilic therapeutic molecules, such as anticancer drugs and DNA, to enter into cells and tissues. This process, called electropermeabilization or electroporation, has been rapidly developed over the last decade to deliver genes to tissues and organs, but there is a general agreement that very little is known about what is really occurring during membrane electropermeabilization. It is well accepted that the entry of small molecules, such as anticancer drugs, occurs through simple diffusion while the entry of macromolecules, such as DNA, occurs through a multistep mechanism involving the electrophoretically driven association of the DNA molecule with the destabilized membrane and then its passage across the membrane. Therefore, successful DNA electrotransfer into cells depends not only on cell permeabilization but also on the way plasmid DNA interacts with the plasma membrane and, once into the cell, migrates toward the nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pierre Rols
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, Toulouse, France
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47
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Guidance for Industry: Considerations for Plasmid DNA Vaccines for Infectious Disease Indications. Biotechnol Law Rep 2007. [DOI: 10.1089/blr.2007.9905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Wang J, Hu JH, Li FQ, Liu GZ, Zhu QG, Liu JY, Ma HJ, Peng C, Si FG. Strong cellular and humoral immune responses induced by transcutaneous immunization with HBsAg DNA-cationic deformable liposome complex. Exp Dermatol 2007; 16:724-9. [PMID: 17697144 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2007.00584.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Transcutaneous immunization presents a major challenge on account of poor permeability of antigens through the skin barrier. To overcome this limitation, the deformable liposome could be a better method for transcutaneous delivery of these antigens. In this study, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) plasmid DNA-cationic complex deformable liposome was utilized as a mode for enhanced immunity against the antigen. Deformable liposome was prepared by conventional rotary evaporation method and characterized for various parameters such as vesicles shape and surface morphology, size and size distribution, entrapment efficiency, elasticity and stability. The immune stimulating activity was studied by measuring serum anti-HBsAg titre and cytokines level (interleukin-4 and interferon-gamma) following topical application of liposome in BALB/c mice and results were compared with deformable liposome encapsulated DNA applied topically as well as naked DNA and pure recombinant HBsAg, administered intramuscularly. It was observed that deformable liposome elicited a comparable serum antibody titre and endogenous cytokines levels compared to other vaccinations. The study signifies the potential of deformable liposome as DNA vaccine carriers for effective transcutaneous immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Greenland JR, Letvin NL. Chemical adjuvants for plasmid DNA vaccines. Vaccine 2007; 25:3731-41. [PMID: 17350735 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2007.01.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2006] [Revised: 01/28/2007] [Accepted: 01/30/2007] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Plasmid DNA vaccines are a promising modality for immunization against a variety of human pathogens. Immunization via multiple routes with plasmid DNA can elicit potent cellular immune responses, and these immunogens can be administered repeatedly without inducing anti-vector immunity. Nonetheless, the immunogenicity of plasmid DNA vaccines has been limited by problems associated with delivery. A number of adjuvants have been designed to improve plasmid DNA immunogenicity, either by directly stimulating the immune system or by enhancing plasmid DNA expression. Chemical adjuvants for enhancing plasmid DNA expression include liposomes, polymers, and microparticles, all of which have shown promise for enhancing the expression and immunogenicity of plasmid DNA vaccines in animal models. Micro- and nanoparticles have not been shown to enhance immune responses to plasmid DNA vaccines. However, formulation of plasmid DNA with some non-particulate polymeric adjuvants has led to a statistically significant enhancement of immune responses. Further development of these technologies will significantly improve the utility of plasmid DNA vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Greenland
- Division of Viral Pathogenesis, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Research East 113, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Wang HY, Lu C. High-throughput and real-time study of single cell electroporation using microfluidics: effects of medium osmolarity. Biotechnol Bioeng 2007; 95:1116-25. [PMID: 16817188 DOI: 10.1002/bit.21066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Electroporation has been widely accepted as an important tool for the delivery of exogenous molecules into cells. Previous mechanistic studies have been carried out by observing either the average behavior from a large population of cells or the response from a small number of single cells. In this study, we demonstrated a novel microfluidic method with high throughput (up to 30 Hz) for real-time studies of single cell electroporation events. Electroporation occurred when cells flowed through a section of a microfluidic channel defined by special geometry. A CCD camera was used to monitor the response of cells starting from the onset of the electroporation. We studied the swelling of Chinese hamster ovary cells and the rupture of cell membrane during electroporation using this technique. We applied buffers with different osmolarities to investigate the effects of medium osmolarity, based on results from a population of single cells. We were able to establish the distributions of the rates of swelling and membrane rupture in the cell population. We also explored establishing the correlation between the property (the cell diameter) and the behavior (the swelling rate) of single cells. Our results indicated that the processes of swelling and rupture occurred more rapidly in the hypotonic or hypertonic buffers than in the isotonic buffer. Statistical analysis did not reveal strong linear correlation between the cell size and the swelling rate. These proof-of-concept studies reveal the potential of applying microfluidics to study electroporation of a cell population at single cell level in real time with high throughput. The limitations associated with this approach were also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiang-Yu Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University, Indiana 47907, USA
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