1
|
Fang Z, Yu P, Zhu W. Development of mRNA rabies vaccines. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2382499. [PMID: 39069645 PMCID: PMC11290775 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2382499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Rabies, primarily transmitted to humans by dogs (accounting for 99% of cases). Once rabies occurs, its mortality rate is approximately 100%. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is critical for preventing the onset of rabies after exposure to rabid animals, and vaccination is a pivotal element of PEP. However, high costs and complex immunization protocols have led to poor adherence to rabies vaccinations. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop new rabies vaccines that are safe, highly immunogenic, and cost-effective to improve compliance and effectively prevent rabies. In recent years, mRNA vaccines have made significant progress in the structural modification and optimization of delivery systems. Various mRNA vaccines are currently undergoing clinical trials, positioning them as viable alternatives to the traditional rabies vaccines. In this article, we discuss a novel mRNA rabies vaccine currently undergoing clinical and preclinical testing, and evaluate its potential to replace existing vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Fang
- National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Key Laboratory of Biosafety, National Health Commission, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pengcheng Yu
- National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Key Laboratory of Biosafety, National Health Commission, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wuyang Zhu
- National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China CDC, Key Laboratory of Biosafety, National Health Commission, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cao Q, Fang H, Tian H. mRNA vaccines contribute to innate and adaptive immunity to enhance immune response in vivo. Biomaterials 2024; 310:122628. [PMID: 38820767 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122628] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics have been widely employed as strategies for the treatment and prevention of diseases. Amid the global outbreak of COVID-19, mRNA vaccines have witnessed rapid development. Generally, in the case of mRNA vaccines, the initiation of the innate immune system serves as a prerequisite for triggering subsequent adaptive immune responses. Critical cells, cytokines, and chemokines within the innate immune system play crucial and beneficial roles in coordinating tailored immune reactions towards mRNA vaccines. Furthermore, immunostimulators and delivery systems play a significant role in augmenting the immune potency of mRNA vaccines. In this comprehensive review, we systematically delineate the latest advancements in mRNA vaccine research, present an in-depth exploration of strategies aimed at amplifying the immune effectiveness of mRNA vaccines, and offer some perspectives and recommendations regarding the future advancements in mRNA vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiannan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China
| | - Huapan Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China; Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, 361005, China; Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Huayu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China; Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, 361005, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bathula NV, Friesen JJ, Casmil IC, Wayne CJ, Liao S, Soriano SKV, Ho CH, Strumpel A, Blakney AK. Delivery vehicle and route of administration influences self-amplifying RNA biodistribution, expression kinetics, and reactogenicity. J Control Release 2024; 374:28-38. [PMID: 39097193 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.07.078] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) is a next-generation RNA platform derived from an alphavirus that enables replication in host cytosol, offering a promising shift from traditional messenger RNA (mRNA) therapies by enabling sustained protein production from minimal dosages. The approval of saRNA-based vaccines, such as the ARCT-154 for COVID-19 in Japan, underscores its potential for diverse therapeutic applications, including vaccine development, cancer immunotherapy, and gene therapy. This study investigates the role of delivery vehicle and administration route on saRNA expression kinetics and reactogenicity. Employing ionizable lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) and polymeric nanoparticles, we administered saRNA encoding firefly luciferase to BALB/c mice through six routes (intramuscular (IM), intradermal (ID), intraperitoneal (IP), intranasal (IN), intravenous (IV), and subcutaneous (SC)), and observed persistent saRNA expression over a month. Our findings reveal that while LNPs enable broad route applicability and stability, pABOL (poly (cystamine bisacrylamide-co-4-amino-1-butanol)) formulations significantly amplify protein expression via intramuscular delivery. Notably, the disparity between RNA biodistribution and protein expression highlight the nuanced interplay between administration routes, delivery vehicles, and therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, our research unveiled distinct biodistribution profiles and inflammatory responses contingent upon the chosen delivery formulation and route. This research illuminates the intricate dynamics governing saRNA delivery, biodistribution and reactogenicity, offering essential insights for optimizing therapeutic strategies and advancing the clinical and commercial viability of saRNA technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nuthan Vikas Bathula
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Josh J Friesen
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Irafasha C Casmil
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Christopher J Wayne
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Suiyang Liao
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 2A1, Canada
| | - Shekinah K V Soriano
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Chia Hao Ho
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Anneke Strumpel
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada; RWTH Aachen University, Templergraben 55, Aachen 52062, Germany
| | - Anna K Blakney
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lokras AG, Bobak TR, Baghel SS, Sebastiani F, Foged C. Advances in the design and delivery of RNA vaccines for infectious diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 213:115419. [PMID: 39111358 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115419] [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: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
RNA medicines represent a paradigm shift in treatment and prevention of critical diseases of global significance, e.g., infectious diseases. The highly successful messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) were developed at record speed during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. A consequence of this is exceptionally shortened vaccine development times, which in combination with adaptability makes the RNA vaccine technology highly attractive against infectious diseases and for pandemic preparedness. Here, we review state of the art in the design and delivery of RNA vaccines for infectious diseases based on different RNA modalities, including linear mRNA, self-amplifying RNA, trans-amplifying RNA, and circular RNA. We provide an overview of the clinical pipeline of RNA vaccines for infectious diseases, and present analytical procedures, which are paramount for characterizing quality attributes and guaranteeing their quality, and we discuss future perspectives for using RNA vaccines to combat pathogens beyond SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhijeet Girish Lokras
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Thomas Rønnemoes Bobak
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Saahil Sandeep Baghel
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Federica Sebastiani
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; Division of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Lund University, 22100, Lund, Sweden
| | - Camilla Foged
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Santhanes D, Zhang H, Wilkins A, John Aitken R, Gannon AL, Liang M. Engineering pH-sensitive dissolution of lipid-polymer nanoparticles by Eudragit integration impacts plasmid DNA (pDNA) transfection. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 199:114299. [PMID: 38643953 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Lipid-polymer nanoparticles offer a promising strategy for improving gene nanomedicines by combining the benefits of biocompatibility and stability associated with the individual systems. However, research to date has focused on poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and resulted in inefficient transfection. In this study, biocompatible Eudragit constructs E100 and RS100 were formulated as lipid-polymer nanoparticles loaded with pDNA expressing red fluorescent protein (RFP) as a model therapeutic. Using a facile nanoprecipitation technique, a core-shell structure stabilised by lipid-polyethylene glycol (PEG) surfactant was produced and displayed resistance to ultracentrifugation. Both cationic polymers E100 (pH-sensitive dissolution at 5) and RS100 (pH-insensitive dissolution) produced 150-200 nm sized particles with a small positive surface charge (+3-5 mV) and high pDNA encapsulation efficiencies (EE) of 75-90%. The dissolution properties of the Eudragit polymers significantly impacted the biological performance in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293T). Nanoparticles composed of polymer RS100 resulted in consistently high cell viability (80-100%), whereas polymer E100 demonstrated dose-dependent behaviour (20-90% cell viability). The low dissolution of polymer RS100 over the full pH range and the resulting nanoparticles failed to induce RFP expression in HEK293T cells. In contrast, polymer E100-constructed nanoparticles resulted in reproducible and gradually increasing RFP expression of 26-42% at 48-72 h. Intraperitoneal (IP) injection of the polymer E100-based nanoparticles in C57BL/6 mice resulted in targeted RFP expression in mouse testes with favourable biocompatibility one-week post-administration. These findings predicate Eudragit based lipid-polymer nanoparticles as a novel and effective carrier for nucleic acids, which could facilitate pre-clinical evaluation and translation of gene nanomedicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diviya Santhanes
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Huiming Zhang
- Electron Microscopy and X-ray Unit, Research and Innovation Division, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Alex Wilkins
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Robert John Aitken
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Anne-Louise Gannon
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Mingtao Liang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Meulewaeter S, Aernout I, Deprez J, Engelen Y, De Velder M, Franceschini L, Breckpot K, Van Calenbergh S, Asselman C, Boucher K, Impens F, De Smedt SC, Verbeke R, Lentacker I. Alpha-galactosylceramide improves the potency of mRNA LNP vaccines against cancer and intracellular bacteria. J Control Release 2024; 370:379-391. [PMID: 38697317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Although various types of mRNA-based vaccines have been explored, the optimal conditions for induction of both humoral and cellular immunity remain rather unknown. In this study, mRNA vaccines of nucleoside-modified mRNA in lipoplexes (LPXs) or lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) were evaluated after administration in mice through different routes, assessing mRNA delivery, tolerability and immunogenicity. In addition, we investigated whether mRNA vaccines could benefit from the inclusion of the adjuvant alpha-galactosylceramide (αGC), an invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cell ligand. Intramuscular (IM) vaccination with ovalbumin (OVA)-encoding mRNA encapsulated in LNPs adjuvanted with αGC showed the highest antibody- and CD8+ T cell responses. Furthermore, we observed that addition of signal peptides and endocytic sorting signals of either LAMP1 or HLA-B7 in the OVA-encoding mRNA sequence further enhanced CD8+ T cell activation although reducing the induction of IgG antibody responses. Moreover, mRNA LNPs with the ionizable lipidoid C12-200 exhibited higher pro-inflammatory- and reactogenic activity compared to mRNA LNPs with SM-102, correlating with increased T cell activation and antitumor potential. We also observed that αGC could further enhance the cellular immunity of clinically relevant mRNA LNP vaccines, thereby promoting therapeutic antitumor potential. Finally, a Listeria monocytogenes mRNA LNP vaccine supplemented with αGC showed synergistic protective effects against listeriosis, highlighting a key advantage of co-activating iNKT cells in antibacterial mRNA vaccines. Taken together, our study offers multiple insights for optimizing the design of mRNA vaccines for disease applications, such as cancer and intracellular bacterial infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Meulewaeter
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ilke Aernout
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joke Deprez
- Inflammation Research Center, VIB-UGent, Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Yanou Engelen
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Margo De Velder
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lorenzo Franceschini
- Translational Oncology Research Center, Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Translational Oncology Research Center, Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serge Van Calenbergh
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Caroline Asselman
- VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katie Boucher
- VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; VIB Proteomics Core, VIB, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Francis Impens
- VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; VIB Proteomics Core, VIB, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jiang Z, Xu Y, Du G, Sun X. Emerging advances in delivery systems for mRNA cancer vaccines. J Control Release 2024; 370:287-301. [PMID: 38679162 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The success of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in treating COVID-19 promotes further research of mRNA vaccines for cancer vaccination. Aiming at overcoming the constraints of currently available mRNA carriers, various alternative nano-vectors have been developed for delivering tumor antigen encoding mRNA and showed versatility to induce potent anti-tumor immunity. The rationally designed nano-vaccines increase the immune activation capacity of the mRNA vaccines by promoting crucial aspects including mRNA stability, cellular uptake, endosomal escape and targeting of immune cells or organs. Herein, we summarized the research progress of various mRNA based nano-vaccines that have been reported for cancer vaccination, including LNPs, lipid enveloped hybrid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles etc. Several strategies that have been reported for further enhancing the immune stimulation efficacy of mRNA nano-vaccines, including developing nano-vaccines for co-delivering adjuvants, combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors, and optimizing the injection routes for boosting immune responses, have been reviewed. The progress of mRNA nano-vaccines in clinical trials and the prospect of the mRNA vaccines for cancer vaccination are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhimei Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yanhua Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guangsheng Du
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Huayamares SG, Loughrey D, Kim H, Dahlman JE, Sorscher EJ. Nucleic acid-based drugs for patients with solid tumours. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:407-427. [PMID: 38589512 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00883-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The treatment of patients with advanced-stage solid tumours typically involves a multimodality approach (including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and/or immunotherapy), which is often ultimately ineffective. Nucleic acid-based drugs, either as monotherapies or in combination with standard-of-care therapies, are rapidly emerging as novel treatments capable of generating responses in otherwise refractory tumours. These therapies include those using viral vectors (also referred to as gene therapies), several of which have now been approved by regulatory agencies, and nanoparticles containing mRNAs and a range of other nucleotides. In this Review, we describe the development and clinical activity of viral and non-viral nucleic acid-based treatments, including their mechanisms of action, tolerability and available efficacy data from patients with solid tumours. We also describe the effects of the tumour microenvironment on drug delivery for both systemically administered and locally administered agents. Finally, we discuss important trends resulting from ongoing clinical trials and preclinical testing, and manufacturing and/or stability considerations that are expected to underpin the next generation of nucleic acid agents for patients with solid tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian G Huayamares
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David Loughrey
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James E Dahlman
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Eric J Sorscher
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chu R, Wang Y, Kong J, Pan T, Yang Y, He J. Lipid nanoparticles as the drug carrier for targeted therapy of hepatic disorders. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:4759-4784. [PMID: 38682294 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02766j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The liver, a complex and vital organ in the human body, is susceptible to various diseases, including metabolic disorders, acute hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In recent decades, these diseases have significantly contributed to global morbidity and mortality. Currently, liver transplantation remains the most effective treatment for hepatic disorders. Nucleic acid therapeutics offer a selective approach to disease treatment through diverse mechanisms, enabling the regulation of relevant genes and providing a novel therapeutic avenue for hepatic disorders. It is expected that nucleic acid drugs will emerge as the third generation of pharmaceuticals, succeeding small molecule drugs and antibody drugs. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) represent a crucial technology in the field of drug delivery and constitute a significant advancement in gene therapies. Nucleic acids encapsulated in LNPs are shielded from the degradation of enzymes and effectively delivered to cells, where they are released and regulate specific genes. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure, composition, and applications of LNPs in the treatment of hepatic disorders and offers insights into prospects and challenges in the future development of LNPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runxuan Chu
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tung, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China.
| | - Jianglong Kong
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tung, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China.
| | - Ting Pan
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
- Department of Pharmaceutics School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yani Yang
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
| | - Jun He
- National Advanced Medical Engineering Research Center, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, 285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ongun M, Lokras AG, Baghel S, Shi Z, Schmidt ST, Franzyk H, Rades T, Sebastiani F, Thakur A, Foged C. Lipid nanoparticles for local delivery of mRNA to the respiratory tract: Effect of PEG-lipid content and administration route. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 198:114266. [PMID: 38499255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Design of inhalable mRNA therapeutics is promising because local administration in the respiratory tract is minimally invasive and induces a local response. However, several challenges related to administration via inhalation and respiratory tract barriers have so far prevented the progress of inhaled mRNA therapeutics. Here, we investigated factors of importance for lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-mediated delivery of mRNA to the respiratory tract. We hypothesized that: (i) the PEG-lipid content is important for providing colloidal stability during aerosolization and for mucosal delivery, (ii) the PEG-lipid contentinfluences the expression of mRNA-encoded protein in the lungs, and (iii) the route of administration (nasal versus pulmonary) affects mRNA delivery in the lungs. In this study, we aimed to optimize the PEG-lipid content for mucosal delivery and to investigatethe effect of administration route on the kinetics of protein expression. Our results show that increasing the PEG-lipid content improves the colloidal stability during the aerosolization process, but has a negative impact on the transfection efficiencyin vitro. The kinetics of protein expressionin vivois dependent on the route of administration, and we found that pulmonaryadministration of mRNA-LNPs to mice results inmore durable protein expression than nasaladministration. These results demonstrate that the design of the delivery system and the route of administration are importantfor achieving high mRNA transfection efficiency in the respiratory tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melike Ongun
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Abhijeet Girish Lokras
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Saahil Baghel
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Zhenning Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Signe Tandrup Schmidt
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Henrik Franzyk
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Thomas Rades
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Federica Sebastiani
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; Division of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Lund University, 22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - Aneesh Thakur
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Camilla Foged
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bitounis D, Jacquinet E, Rogers MA, Amiji MM. Strategies to reduce the risks of mRNA drug and vaccine toxicity. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:281-300. [PMID: 38263456 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00859-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
mRNA formulated with lipid nanoparticles is a transformative technology that has enabled the rapid development and administration of billions of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine doses worldwide. However, avoiding unacceptable toxicity with mRNA drugs and vaccines presents challenges. Lipid nanoparticle structural components, production methods, route of administration and proteins produced from complexed mRNAs all present toxicity concerns. Here, we discuss these concerns, specifically how cell tropism and tissue distribution of mRNA and lipid nanoparticles can lead to toxicity, and their possible reactogenicity. We focus on adverse events from mRNA applications for protein replacement and gene editing therapies as well as vaccines, tracing common biochemical and cellular pathways. The potential and limitations of existing models and tools used to screen for on-target efficacy and de-risk off-target toxicity, including in vivo and next-generation in vitro models, are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Bitounis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
- Moderna, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Mansoor M Amiji
- Departments of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chaudhary N, Newby AN, Arral ML, Yerneni SS, LoPresti ST, Doerfler R, Petersen DMS, Montoya C, Kim JS, Fox B, Coon T, Malaney A, Sadovsky Y, Whitehead KA. Lipid nanoparticle structure and delivery route during pregnancy dictate mRNA potency, immunogenicity, and maternal and fetal outcomes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2307810121. [PMID: 38437545 PMCID: PMC10945816 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307810121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Treating pregnancy-related disorders is exceptionally challenging because the threat of maternal and/or fetal toxicity discourages the use of existing medications and hinders new drug development. One potential solution is the use of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) RNA therapies, given their proven efficacy, tolerability, and lack of fetal accumulation. Here, we describe LNPs for efficacious mRNA delivery to maternal organs in pregnant mice via several routes of administration. In the placenta, our lead LNP transfected trophoblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, with efficacy being structurally dependent on the ionizable lipid polyamine headgroup. Next, we show that LNP-induced maternal inflammatory responses affect mRNA expression in the maternal compartment and hinder neonatal development. Specifically, pro-inflammatory LNP structures and routes of administration curtailed efficacy in maternal lymphoid organs in an IL-1β-dependent manner. Further, immunogenic LNPs provoked the infiltration of adaptive immune cells into the placenta and restricted pup growth after birth. Together, our results provide mechanism-based structural guidance on the design of potent LNPs for safe use during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Namit Chaudhary
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Alexandra N. Newby
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Mariah L. Arral
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | | | - Samuel T. LoPresti
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Rose Doerfler
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | | | - Catalina Montoya
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Julie S. Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Bethany Fox
- Mellon Institute Centralized Vivarium, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Tiffany Coon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Angela Malaney
- Mellon Institute Centralized Vivarium, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Yoel Sadovsky
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| | - Kathryn A. Whitehead
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA15213
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wu L, Li X, Qian X, Wang S, Liu J, Yan J. Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Delivery Carrier-Assisted Targeted Controlled Release mRNA Vaccines in Tumor Immunity. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:186. [PMID: 38400169 PMCID: PMC10891594 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12020186] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have attracted extensive attention in tumor immunotherapy. Targeting immune cells in cancer therapy has become a strategy of great research interest. mRNA vaccines are a potential choice for tumor immunotherapy, due to their ability to directly encode antigen proteins and stimulate a strong immune response. However, the mode of delivery and lack of stability of mRNA are key issues limiting its application. LNPs are an excellent mRNA delivery carrier, and their structural stability and biocompatibility make them an effective means for delivering mRNA to specific targets. This study summarizes the research progress in LNP delivery carrier-assisted targeted controlled release mRNA vaccines in tumor immunity. The role of LNPs in improving mRNA stability, immunogenicity, and targeting is discussed. This review aims to systematically summarize the latest research progress in LNP delivery carrier-assisted targeted controlled release mRNA vaccines in tumor immunity to provide new ideas and strategies for tumor immunotherapy, as well as to provide more effective treatment plans for patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liusheng Wu
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Xiaoqiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China;
| | - Xinye Qian
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
| | - Shuang Wang
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
| | - Jixian Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China;
| | - Jun Yan
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mochida Y, Uchida S. mRNA vaccine designs for optimal adjuvanticity and delivery. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-27. [PMID: 38528828 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2024.2333123] [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] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Adjuvanticity and delivery are crucial facets of mRNA vaccine design. In modern mRNA vaccines, adjuvant functions are integrated into mRNA vaccine nanoparticles, allowing the co-delivery of antigen mRNA and adjuvants in a unified, all-in-one formulation. In this formulation, many mRNA vaccines utilize the immunostimulating properties of mRNA and vaccine carrier components, including lipids and polymers, as adjuvants. However, careful design is necessary, as excessive adjuvanticity and activation of improper innate immune signalling can conversely hinder vaccination efficacy and trigger adverse effects. mRNA vaccines also require delivery systems to achieve antigen expression in antigen-presenting cells (APCs) within lymphoid organs. Some vaccines directly target APCs in the lymphoid organs, while others rely on APCs migration to the draining lymph nodes after taking up mRNA vaccines. This review explores the current mechanistic understanding of these processes and the ongoing efforts to improve vaccine safety and efficacy based on this understanding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Mochida
- Department of Advanced Nanomedical Engineering, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Satoshi Uchida
- Department of Advanced Nanomedical Engineering, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, Kawasaki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li X, Qi J, Wang J, Hu W, Zhou W, Wang Y, Li T. Nanoparticle technology for mRNA: Delivery strategy, clinical application and developmental landscape. Theranostics 2024; 14:738-760. [PMID: 38169577 PMCID: PMC10758055 DOI: 10.7150/thno.84291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The mRNA vaccine, a groundbreaking advancement in the field of immunology, has garnered international recognition by being awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize, which has emerged as a promising prophylactic and therapeutic modality for various diseases, especially in cancer, rare disease, and infectious disease such as COVID-19, wherein successful mRNA treatment can be achieved by improving the stability of mRNA and introducing a safe and effective delivery system. Nanotechnology-based delivery systems, such as lipid nanoparticles, lipoplexes, polyplexes, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles and others, have attracted great interest and have been explored for mRNA delivery. Nanoscale platforms can protect mRNA from extracellular degradation while promoting endosome escape after endocytosis, hence improving the efficacy. This review provides an overview of diverse nanoplatforms utilized for mRNA delivery in preclinical and clinical stages, including formulation, preparation process, transfection efficiency, and administration route. Furthermore, the market situation and prospects of mRNA vaccines are discussed here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Jing Qi
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Weichang Zhou
- WuXi Biologics, Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| | - Tao Li
- Formulation and Process Development (FPD), WuXi Biologics, 291 Fucheng Road, Hangzhou, 311106, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pan S, Fan R, Han B, Tong A, Guo G. The potential of mRNA vaccines in cancer nanomedicine and immunotherapy. Trends Immunol 2024; 45:20-31. [PMID: 38142147 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2023.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Owing to their outstanding performance against COVID-19, mRNA vaccines have brought great hope for combating various incurable diseases, including cancer. Differences in the encoded proteins result in different molecular and cellular mechanisms of mRNA vaccines. With the rapid development of nanotechnology and molecular medicine, personalized antigen-encoding mRNA vaccines that enhance antigen presentation can trigger effective immune responses and prevent off-target toxicities. Herein, we review new insights into the influence of encoded antigens, cytokines, and other functional proteins on the mechanisms of mRNA vaccines. We also highlight the importance of delivery systems and chemical modifications for mRNA translation efficiency, stability, and targeting, and we discuss the potential problems and application prospects of mRNA vaccines as versatile tools for combating cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shulin Pan
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Rangrang Fan
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Bo Han
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, and Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Phytomedicine Resource and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Aiping Tong
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Gang Guo
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pateev I, Seregina K, Ivanov R, Reshetnikov V. Biodistribution of RNA Vaccines and of Their Products: Evidence from Human and Animal Studies. Biomedicines 2023; 12:59. [PMID: 38255166 PMCID: PMC10812935 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Explosive developments in mRNA vaccine technology in the last decade have made it possible to achieve great success in clinical trials of mRNA vaccines to prevent infectious diseases and develop cancer treatments and mRNA-based gene therapy products. The approval of the mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has led to mass vaccination (with mRNA vaccines) of several hundred million people around the world, including children. Despite its effectiveness in the fight against COVID-19, rare adverse effects of the vaccination have been shown in some studies, including vascular microcirculation disorders and autoimmune and allergic reactions. The biodistribution of mRNA vaccines remains one of the most poorly investigated topics. This mini-review discussed the results of recent experimental studies on humans and rodents regarding the biodistribution of mRNA vaccines, their constituents (mRNA and lipid nanoparticles), and their encoded antigens. We focused on the dynamics of the biodistribution of mRNA vaccine products and on the possibility of crossing the blood-brain and blood-placental barriers as well as transmission to infants through breast milk. In addition, we critically assessed the strengths and weaknesses of the detection methods that have been applied in these articles, whose results' reliability is becoming a subject of debate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ildus Pateev
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sochi, Russia
| | - Kristina Seregina
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sochi, Russia
| | - Roman Ivanov
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sochi, Russia
| | - Vasiliy Reshetnikov
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sochi, Russia
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kirtane AR, Tang C, Freitas D, Bernstock JD, Traverso G. Challenges and opportunities in the development of mucosal mRNA vaccines. Curr Opin Immunol 2023; 85:102388. [PMID: 37776698 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2023.102388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have played a critical role in controlling the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and are being actively studied for use in other diseases. There is a growing interest in applying mRNA vaccines at mucosal surfaces as it enables access to a unique immune reservoir in a less-invasive manner. However, mucosal surfaces present several barriers to mRNA uptake, including degrading enzymes, mucus, and clearance mechanisms. In this mini-review, we discuss our understanding of the immune response to mucosal mRNA vaccines as it compares to systemic mRNA vaccines. We also highlight physical and chemical methods for enhancing mRNA uptake across mucosal tissues. Mucosal mRNA vaccination is a nascent field of research, which will greatly benefit from fundamental investigations into the mechanisms of immune activation and the development of technologies for improved delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ameya R Kirtane
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Chaoyang Tang
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Dylan Freitas
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Joshua D Bernstock
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giovanni Traverso
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ma X, Wu F, Peng C, Chen H, Zhang D, Han T. Exploration of mRNA nanoparticles based on DOTAP through optimization of the helper lipids. Biotechnol J 2023; 18:e2300123. [PMID: 37545293 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are one of the most efficient carriers for RNA packaging and delivery, and vaccines based on mRNA-LNPs have received substantial attention since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. LNPs based on 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP) have been widely used in preclinical and clinical settings. A novel non-viral gene delivery system called LNP3 was previously developed, which was composed of DOTAP, 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE), and cholesterol. One of the helper lipids in this carrier was DOPE, which belongs to phospholipids. Given that substituting DOPE with non-phospholipids as helper lipids can increase the delivery efficiency of some LNPs, this study aimed to examine whether non-phospholipids can be formulated with DOTAP as helper lipids. It was found that monoglycerides with C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, and C18:2 mediated mRNA transfection, and the transfection efficiency varied between C18:0, C18:1, and C18:2. Furthermore, substituting of the glycerol with other moieties such as the cholesterol or the ethanolamine similarly mediated mRNA transfection. The introduction of cholesterol can further improve the transfection capacity of some DOTAP-based LNPs. One of the best-performing formulations, LNP3-MO, was used to mediate luciferase-mRNA expression in vivo, and the luminescence signal was found to be mainly enriched in the lung and spleen. In addition, the level of SARS-CoV-2 spike antibody in the serum increased after three doses of LNP3-MO mediated SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA. Altogether, this study demonstrates that non-phospholipids are promising helper lipids that can be formulated with DOTAP to facilitate efficient delivery of mRNAs in vitro and in vivo with organ-specific targeting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueni Ma
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fanqi Wu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Respiratory, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Caihong Peng
- Department of Oncology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huiling Chen
- Department of Hematology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Dekui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tiyun Han
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Liu X, Huang P, Yang R, Deng H. mRNA Cancer Vaccines: Construction and Boosting Strategies. ACS NANO 2023; 17:19550-19580. [PMID: 37819640 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c05635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
In late 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a lipid-based mRNA vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19, which has pushed this field to be more closely studied and motivated researchers to delve deeper into mRNA therapeutics. To date, the research on mRNA cancer vaccines has been developed rapidly, and substantial hopeful therapeutic results have been achieved against various solid tumors in clinical trials. In this review, we first introduce three main components of mRNA cancer vaccines, including mRNA antigens, adjuvants, and delivery vectors. Engineering these components can optimize the therapeutic effects of mRNA cancer vaccines. For instance, appropriate modification of mRNA structure can alleviate the poor stability and innate immunogenicity of mRNA, and the use of mRNA delivery vectors can address the issues of low delivery efficiency in vivo. Second, we emphatically discuss some strategies to further improve the efficacy of mRNA cancer vaccines, namely modulating the immunosuppressive tumor environment, optimizing administration routes, achieving targeting delivery to intended tissues or organs, and employing combination therapy. These strategies can strengthen the tumor inhibitory ability of mRNA cancer vaccines and increase the possibility of tumor elimination. Finally, we point out some challenges in the clinical practice of mRNA cancer vaccines and offer our perspectives on future developments in this rapidly evolving field. It is anticipated that mRNA cancer vaccines will be rapidly developed for clinical cancer therapy in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Liu
- School of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Xidian University, Xi'an 710126 China
- Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University & Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, China
- International Joint Research Center for Advanced Medical Imaging and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment & Xi'an Key Laboratory of Intelligent Sensing and Regulation of trans-Scale Life Information, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, China
| | - Pei Huang
- Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University & Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, China
- International Joint Research Center for Advanced Medical Imaging and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment & Xi'an Key Laboratory of Intelligent Sensing and Regulation of trans-Scale Life Information, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, China
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Rusen Yang
- School of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Xidian University, Xi'an 710126 China
| | - Hongzhang Deng
- Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University & Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, China
- International Joint Research Center for Advanced Medical Imaging and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment & Xi'an Key Laboratory of Intelligent Sensing and Regulation of trans-Scale Life Information, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710126, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wang YS, Kumari M, Chen GH, Hong MH, Yuan JPY, Tsai JL, Wu HC. mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics: an in-depth survey of current and upcoming clinical applications. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:84. [PMID: 37805495 PMCID: PMC10559634 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00977-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based drugs have tremendous potential as clinical treatments, however, a major challenge in realizing this drug class will promise to develop methods for safely delivering the bioactive agents with high efficiency and without activating the immune system. With regard to mRNA vaccines, researchers have modified the mRNA structure to enhance its stability and promote systemic tolerance of antigenic presentation in non-inflammatory contexts. Still, delivery of naked modified mRNAs is inefficient and results in low levels of antigen protein production. As such, lipid nanoparticles have been utilized to improve delivery and protect the mRNA cargo from extracellular degradation. This advance was a major milestone in the development of mRNA vaccines and dispelled skepticism about the potential of this technology to yield clinically approved medicines. Following the resounding success of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, many other mRNA-based drugs have been proposed for the treatment of a variety of diseases. This review begins with a discussion of mRNA modifications and delivery vehicles, as well as the factors that influence administration routes. Then, we summarize the potential applications of mRNA-based drugs and discuss further key points pertaining to preclinical and clinical development of mRNA drugs targeting a wide range of diseases. Finally, we discuss the latest market trends and future applications of mRNA-based drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shiuan Wang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Monika Kumari
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Hong Chen
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsiang Hong
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Joyce Pei-Yi Yuan
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ling Tsai
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan.
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Byun J, Wu Y, Park J, Kim JS, Li Q, Choi J, Shin N, Lan M, Cai Y, Lee J, Oh YK. RNA Nanomedicine: Delivery Strategies and Applications. AAPS J 2023; 25:95. [PMID: 37784005 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-023-00860-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Delivery of RNA using nanomaterials has emerged as a new modality to expand therapeutic applications in biomedical research. However, the delivery of RNA presents unique challenges due to its susceptibility to degradation and the requirement for efficient intracellular delivery. The integration of nanotechnologies with RNA delivery has addressed many of these challenges. In this review, we discuss different strategies employed in the design and development of nanomaterials for RNA delivery. We also highlight recent advances in the pharmaceutical applications of RNA delivered via nanomaterials. Various nanomaterials, such as lipids, polymers, peptides, nucleic acids, and inorganic nanomaterials, have been utilized for delivering functional RNAs, including messenger RNA (mRNA), small interfering RNA, single guide RNA, and microRNA. Furthermore, the utilization of nanomaterials has expanded the applications of functional RNA as active pharmaceutical ingredients. For instance, the delivery of antigen-encoding mRNA using nanomaterials enables the transient expression of vaccine antigens, leading to immunogenicity and prevention against infectious diseases. Additionally, nanomaterial-mediated RNA delivery has been investigated for engineering cells to express exogenous functional proteins. Nanomaterials have also been employed for co-delivering single guide RNA and mRNA to facilitate gene editing of genetic diseases. Apart from the progress made in RNA medicine, we discuss the current challenges and future directions in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junho Byun
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yina Wu
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinwon Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Suk Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Qiaoyun Li
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehyun Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Namjo Shin
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Meng Lan
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yu Cai
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jaiwoo Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yu-Kyoung Oh
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhang W, Jiang Y, He Y, Boucetta H, Wu J, Chen Z, He W. Lipid carriers for mRNA delivery. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4105-4126. [PMID: 37799378 PMCID: PMC10547918 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is the template for protein biosynthesis and is emerging as an essential active molecule to combat various diseases, including viral infection and cancer. Especially, mRNA-based vaccines, as a new type of vaccine, have played a leading role in fighting against the current global pandemic of COVID-19. However, the inherent drawbacks, including large size, negative charge, and instability, hinder its use as a therapeutic agent. Lipid carriers are distinguishable and promising vehicles for mRNA delivery, owning the capacity to encapsulate and deliver negatively charged drugs to the targeted tissues and release cargoes at the desired time. Here, we first summarized the structure and properties of different lipid carriers, such as liposomes, liposome-like nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, exosomes and lipoprotein particles, and their applications in delivering mRNA. Then, the development of lipid-based formulations as vaccine delivery systems was discussed and highlighted. Recent advancements in the mRNA vaccine of COVID-19 were emphasized. Finally, we described our future vision and perspectives in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wanting Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yuxin Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yonglong He
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Hamza Boucetta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lee Y, Jeong M, Park J, Jung H, Lee H. Immunogenicity of lipid nanoparticles and its impact on the efficacy of mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:2085-2096. [PMID: 37779140 PMCID: PMC10618257 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01086-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have utilized a lipid nanoparticle delivery system to enhance the effectiveness of mRNA therapeutics and vaccines. However, these nanoparticles are recognized as foreign materials by the body and stimulate innate immunity, which in turn impacts adaptive immunity. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the specific type of innate immune response triggered by lipid nanoparticles. This article provides an overview of the immunological response in the body, explores how lipid nanoparticles activate the innate immune system, and examines the adverse effects and immunogenicity-related development pathways associated with these nanoparticles. Finally, we highlight and explore strategies for regulating the immunogenicity of lipid nanoparticles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeji Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Michaela Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Jeongeun Park
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Hyein Jung
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Hyukjin Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yuan M, Han Z, Liang Y, Sun Y, He B, Chen W, Li F. mRNA nanodelivery systems: targeting strategies and administration routes. Biomater Res 2023; 27:90. [PMID: 37740246 PMCID: PMC10517595 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-023-00425-3] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
With the great success of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines, mRNA therapeutics have gained significant momentum for the prevention and treatment of various refractory diseases. To function efficiently in vivo and overcome clinical limitations, mRNA demands safe and stable vectors and a reasonable administration route, bypassing multiple biological barriers and achieving organ-specific targeted delivery of mRNA. Nanoparticle (NP)-based delivery systems representing leading vector approaches ensure the successful intracellular delivery of mRNA to the target organ. In this review, chemical modifications of mRNA and various types of advanced mRNA NPs, including lipid NPs and polymers are summarized. The importance of passive targeting, especially endogenous targeting, and active targeting in mRNA nano-delivery is emphasized, and different cellular endocytic mechanisms are discussed. Most importantly, based on the above content and the physiological structure characteristics of various organs in vivo, the design strategies of mRNA NPs targeting different organs and cells are classified and discussed. Furthermore, the influence of administration routes on targeting design is highlighted. Finally, an outlook on the remaining challenges and future development toward mRNA targeted therapies and precision medicine is provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mujie Yuan
- Department of Oral Implantology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Zeyu Han
- Department of Oral Implantology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
| | - Yong Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266073, China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Wantao Chen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head & Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Oral Implantology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chehelgerdi M, Chehelgerdi M. The use of RNA-based treatments in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:106. [PMID: 37420174 PMCID: PMC10401791 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01807-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past several decades, mRNA vaccines have evolved from a theoretical concept to a clinical reality. These vaccines offer several advantages over traditional vaccine techniques, including their high potency, rapid development, low-cost manufacturing, and safe administration. However, until recently, concerns over the instability and inefficient distribution of mRNA in vivo have limited their utility. Fortunately, recent technological advancements have mostly resolved these concerns, resulting in the development of numerous mRNA vaccination platforms for infectious diseases and various types of cancer. These platforms have shown promising outcomes in both animal models and humans. This study highlights the potential of mRNA vaccines as a promising alternative approach to conventional vaccine techniques and cancer treatment. This review article aims to provide a thorough and detailed examination of mRNA vaccines, including their mechanisms of action and potential applications in cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, the article will analyze the current state of mRNA vaccine technology and highlight future directions for the development and implementation of this promising vaccine platform as a mainstream therapeutic option. The review will also discuss potential challenges and limitations of mRNA vaccines, such as their stability and in vivo distribution, and suggest ways to overcome these issues. By providing a comprehensive overview and critical analysis of mRNA vaccines, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of this innovative approach to cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran.
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Matin Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Perez-Potti A, Rodríguez-Pérez M, Polo E, Pelaz B, Del Pino P. Nanoparticle-based immunotherapeutics: from the properties of nanocores to the differential effects of administration routes. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114829. [PMID: 37121275 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114829] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The engagement with the immune system is one of the main cornerstones in the development of nanotechnologies for therapy and diagnostics. Recent advances have made possible the tuning of features like size, shape and biomolecular modifications that influence such interactions, however, the capabilities for immune modulation of nanoparticles are still not well defined and exploited. This review focuses on recent advances made in preclinical research for the application of nanoparticles to modulate immune responses, and the main features making them relevant for such applications. We review and discuss newest evidence in the field, which include in vivo experiments with an extensive physicochemical characterization as well as detailed study of the induced immune response. We emphasize the need of incorporating knowledge about immune response development and regulation in the design and application of nanoparticles, including the effect by parameters such as the administration route and the differential interactions with immune subsets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André Perez-Potti
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Manuel Rodríguez-Pérez
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ester Polo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Beatriz Pelaz
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Pablo Del Pino
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Krähling V, Erbar S, Kupke A, Nogueira SS, Walzer KC, Berger H, Dietzel E, Halwe S, Rohde C, Sauerhering L, Aragão-Santiago L, Moreno Herrero J, Witzel S, Haas H, Becker S, Sahin U. Self-amplifying RNA vaccine protects mice against lethal Ebola virus infection. Mol Ther 2023; 31:374-386. [PMID: 36303436 PMCID: PMC9931551 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.10.011] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging and re-emerging viruses, such as Zaire Ebola virus (EBOV), pose a global threat and require immediate countermeasures, including the rapid development of effective vaccines that are easy to manufacture. Synthetic self-amplifying RNAs (saRNAs) attend to these needs, being safe and strong immune stimulators that can be inexpensively produced in large quantities, using cell-free systems and good manufacturing practice. Here, the first goal was to develop and optimize an anti-EBOV saRNA-based vaccine in terms of its antigen composition and route of administration. Vaccinating mice with saRNAs expressing the EBOV glycoprotein (GP) alone or in combination with the nucleoprotein (NP) elicited antigen-specific immune responses. GP-specific antibodies showed neutralizing activity against EBOV. Strong CD4+ T cell response against NP and GP and CD8+ T cell response against NP were detected by ELISpot assays. Intramuscular vaccination with saRNAs conferred better immune response than intradermal. Finally, mice vaccinated in a prime-boost regimen with saRNAs encoding both GP and NP or with GP alone survived an EBOV infection. In addition, a single dose of GP and NP saRNAs was also protective against fatal EBOV infection. Overall, saRNAs expressing viral antigens represent a promising vaccine platform.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verena Krähling
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Gießen-Marburg-Langen, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Alexandra Kupke
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Gießen-Marburg-Langen, Marburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Erik Dietzel
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Gießen-Marburg-Langen, Marburg, Germany
| | - Sandro Halwe
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Gießen-Marburg-Langen, Marburg, Germany
| | - Cornelius Rohde
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Gießen-Marburg-Langen, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lucie Sauerhering
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Gießen-Marburg-Langen, Marburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Sonja Witzel
- TRON - Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University gGmbH, Freiligrathstraße 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Heinrich Haas
- BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Stephan Becker
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str. 2, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Gießen-Marburg-Langen, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Ugur Sahin
- BioNTech SE, An der Goldgrube 12, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Donahue DA, Ballesteros C, Maruggi G, Glover C, Ringenberg MA, Marquis M, Ben Abdeljelil N, Ashraf A, Rodriguez LA, Stokes AH. Nonclinical Safety Assessment of Lipid Nanoparticle-and Emulsion-Based Self-Amplifying mRNA Vaccines in Rats. Int J Toxicol 2023; 42:37-49. [PMID: 36472205 DOI: 10.1177/10915818221138781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines containing mRNA with the capacity to self-amplify represent an alternative to the mRNA vaccines that came to prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. To gain further insights on the safety profile of self-amplifying mRNA- (SAM-) vaccines, this preclinical toxicology study in rats evaluated the effect of (i) the type of delivery system (lipid nanoparticle [LNP] vs cationic nano-emulsion [CNE]); (ii) antigen-encoding sequence (rabies glycoprotein G vs SARS-CoV-2 Spike); and (iii) RNA amplification. Further analyses also evaluated gene expression in peripheral blood after vaccination, and the biodistribution of vaccine RNA. The SAM vaccines administered as two doses 2-weeks apart had acceptable safety profiles in rats, with respect to clinical signs, blood biochemistry, and macroscopic and microscopic pathology. A transient increase in ALT/AST ratio occurred only in female rats and in the absence of muscle and liver damage was dependent on RNA amplification and appeared related to the greater quantities of vaccine RNA in the muscle and livers of female rats vs male rats. The RNA and delivery-vehicle components, but not the nature of the antigen-coding sequence or the requirement for RNA amplification, affected aspects of the stimulation of innate-immune activity, which was consistent with the transient activation of type I and type II interferon signaling. The delivery vehicle, LNP, differed from CNE as vaccine RNA in CNE compositions appeared independently to stimulate innate-immune activity at 4 hours after vaccination. Our analysis supports further studies to assess whether these differences in innate-immune activity affect safety and efficacy of the SAM vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Asma Ashraf
- Charles River Laboratories, Laval, QC, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Künzli M, O’Flanagan SD, LaRue M, Talukder P, Dileepan T, Stolley JM, Soerens AG, Quarnstrom CF, Wijeyesinghe S, Ye Y, McPartlan JS, Mitchell JS, Mandl CW, Vile R, Jenkins MK, Ahmed R, Vezys V, Chahal JS, Masopust D. Route of self-amplifying mRNA vaccination modulates the establishment of pulmonary resident memory CD8 and CD4 T cells. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eadd3075. [PMID: 36459542 PMCID: PMC9832918 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.add3075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Respiratory tract resident memory T cells (TRM), typically generated by local vaccination or infection, can accelerate control of pulmonary infections that evade neutralizing antibody. It is unknown whether mRNA vaccination establishes respiratory TRM. We generated a self-amplifying mRNA vaccine encoding the influenza A virus nucleoprotein that is encapsulated in modified dendron-based nanoparticles. Here, we report how routes of immunization in mice, including contralateral versus ipsilateral intramuscular boosts, or intravenous and intranasal routes, influenced influenza-specific cell-mediated and humoral immunity. Parabiotic surgeries revealed that intramuscular immunization was sufficient to establish CD8 TRM in the lung and draining lymph nodes. Contralateral, compared with ipsilateral, intramuscular boosting broadened the distribution of lymph node TRM and T follicular helper cells but slightly diminished resulting levels of serum antibody. Intranasal mRNA delivery established modest circulating CD8 and CD4 T cell memory but augmented distribution to the respiratory mucosa. Combining intramuscular immunizations with an intranasal mRNA boost achieved high levels of both circulating T cell memory and lung TRM. Thus, routes of mRNA vaccination influence humoral and cell-mediated immunity, and intramuscular prime-boosting establishes lung TRM that can be further expanded by an additional intranasal immunization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Künzli
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Stephen D. O’Flanagan
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Madeleine LaRue
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Thamotharampillai Dileepan
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - J. Michael Stolley
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Andrew G. Soerens
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Clare F. Quarnstrom
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sathi Wijeyesinghe
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Yanqi Ye
- Emory Vaccine Center and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Jason S. Mitchell
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Richard Vile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Marc K. Jenkins
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rafi Ahmed
- Emory Vaccine Center and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vaiva Vezys
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - David Masopust
- Center for Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Park Y, Moses AS, Demessie AA, Singh P, Lee H, Korzun T, Taratula OR, Alani AG, Taratula O. Poly(aspartic acid)-Based Polymeric Nanoparticle for Local and Systemic mRNA Delivery. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:4696-4704. [PMID: 36409995 PMCID: PMC9826779 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recently, therapeutics based on mRNA (mRNA) have attracted significant interest for vaccines, cancer immunotherapy, and gene editing. However, the lack of biocompatible vehicles capable of delivering mRNA to the target tissue and efficiently expressing the encoded proteins impedes the development of mRNA-based therapies for a variety of diseases. Herein, we report mRNA-loaded polymeric nanoparticles based on diethylenetriamine-substituted poly(aspartic acid) that induce protein expression in the lungs and muscles following intravenous and intramuscular injections, respectively. Animal studies revealed that the amount of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the nanoparticle surface affects the translation of the delivered mRNA into the encoded protein in the target tissue. After systemic administration, only mRNA-loaded nanoparticles modified with PEG at a molar ratio of 1:1 (PEG/polymer) induce protein expression in the lungs. In contrast, protein expression was detected only following intramuscular injection of mRNA-loaded nanoparticles with a PEG/polymer ratio of 10:1. These findings suggest that the PEG density on the surface of poly(aspartic acid)-based nanoparticles should be optimized for different delivery routes depending on the purpose of the mRNA treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youngrong Park
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Abraham S. Moses
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Ananiya A. Demessie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Prem Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Hyelim Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Tetiana Korzun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Olena R. Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Adam G. Alani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Oleh Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Li Y, Jiang X, Luo T, Xia J, Lee MJ, Weichselbaum RR, Lin W. TLR3 agonist nanoscale coordination polymer synergizes with immune checkpoint blockade for immunotherapy of cancer. Biomaterials 2022; 290:121831. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
|
33
|
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is an emerging class of therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of a wide range of diseases. The recent success of the two highly efficacious mRNA vaccines produced by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech to protect against COVID-19 highlights the huge potential of mRNA technology for revolutionizing life science and medical research. Challenges related to mRNA stability and immunogenicity, as well as in vivo delivery and the ability to cross multiple biological barriers, have been largely addressed by recent progress in mRNA engineering and delivery. In this Review, we present the latest advances and innovations in the growing field of mRNA nanomedicine, in the context of ongoing clinical translation and future directions to improve clinical efficacy.
Collapse
|
34
|
Jansen EM, Frijlink HW, Hinrichs WLJ, Ruigrok MJR. Are inhaled mRNA vaccines safe and effective? A review of preclinical studies. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2022; 19:1471-1485. [DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2131767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Evalyne M Jansen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Henderik W Frijlink
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter LJ Hinrichs
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mitchel JR Ruigrok
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Lipid Nanoparticles for mRNA Delivery to Enhance Cancer Immunotherapy. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175607. [PMID: 36080373 PMCID: PMC9458026 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is being developed by researchers as a novel drug for the treatment or prevention of many diseases. However, to enable mRNA to fully exploit its effects in vivo, researchers need to develop safer and more effective mRNA delivery systems that improve mRNA stability and enhance the ability of cells to take up and release mRNA. To date, lipid nanoparticles are promising nanodrug carriers for tumor therapy, which can significantly improve the immunotherapeutic effects of conventional drugs by modulating mRNA delivery, and have attracted widespread interest in the biomedical field. This review focuses on the delivery of mRNA by lipid nanoparticles for cancer treatment. We summarize some common tumor immunotherapy and mRNA delivery strategies, describe the clinical advantages of lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery, and provide an outlook on the current challenges and future developments of this technology.
Collapse
|