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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.
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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.
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2
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Iqbal Z, Rehman K, Mahmood A, Shabbir M, Liang Y, Duan L, Zeng H. Exosome for mRNA delivery: strategies and therapeutic applications. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:395. [PMID: 38965553 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02634-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has emerged as a promising therapeutic molecule with numerous clinical applications in treating central nervous system disorders, tumors, COVID-19, and other diseases. mRNA therapies must be encapsulated into safe, stable, and effective delivery vehicles to preserve the cargo from degradation and prevent immunogenicity. Exosomes have gained growing attention in mRNA delivery because of their good biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, small size, unique capacity to traverse physiological barriers, and cell-specific tropism. Moreover, these exosomes can be engineered to utilize the natural carriers to target specific cells or tissues. This targeted approach will enhance the efficacy and reduce the side effects of mRNAs. However, difficulties such as a lack of consistent and reliable methods for exosome purification and the efficient encapsulation of large mRNAs into exosomes must be addressed. This article outlines current breakthroughs in cell-derived vesicle-mediated mRNA delivery and its biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoya Iqbal
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China
| | - Khurrum Rehman
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, The University of Agriculture, D.I.Khan, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Mahmood
- Department of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Shabbir
- Department of Pharmacy, The University of Lahore, Lahore Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Yujie Liang
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen, 518020, China.
| | - Li Duan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China.
| | - Hui Zeng
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China.
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3
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Golombek S, Doll I, Kaufmann L, Lescan M, Schlensak C, Avci-Adali M. A Novel Strategy for the Treatment of Aneurysms: Inhibition of MMP-9 Activity through the Delivery of TIMP-1 Encoding Synthetic mRNA into Arteries. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6599. [PMID: 38928311 PMCID: PMC11203431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126599] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aneurysms pose life-threatening risks due to the dilatation of the arteries and carry a high risk of rupture. Despite continuous research efforts, there are still no satisfactory or clinically effective pharmaceutical treatments for this condition. Accelerated inflammatory processes during aneurysm development lead to increased levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and destabilization of the vessel wall through the degradation of the structural components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), mainly collagen and elastin. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) directly regulate MMP activity and consequently inhibit ECM proteolysis. In this work, the synthesis of TIMP-1 protein was increased by the exogenous delivery of synthetic TIMP-1 encoding mRNA into aortic vessel tissue in an attempt to inhibit MMP-9. In vitro, TIMP-1 mRNA transfection resulted in significantly increased TIMP-1 protein expression in various cells. The functionality of the expressed protein was evaluated in an appropriate ex vivo aortic vessel model. Decreased MMP-9 activity was detected using in situ zymography 24 h and 48 h post microinjection of 5 µg TIMP-1 mRNA into the aortic vessel wall. These results suggest that TIMP-1 mRNA administration is a promising approach for the treatment of aneurysms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Meltem Avci-Adali
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Tuebingen, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
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4
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Shah SA, Oakes RS, Jewell CM. Advancing immunotherapy using biomaterials to control tissue, cellular, and molecular level immune signaling in skin. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115315. [PMID: 38670230 PMCID: PMC11111363 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapies have been transformative in many areas, including cancer treatments, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. However, significant challenges persist in extending the reach of these technologies to new indications and patients. Some of the major hurdles include narrow applicability to patient groups, transient efficacy, high cost burdens, poor immunogenicity, and side effects or off-target toxicity that results from lack of disease-specificity and inefficient delivery. Thus, there is a significant need for strategies that control immune responses generated by immunotherapies while targeting infection, cancer, allergy, and autoimmunity. Being the outermost barrier of the body and the first line of host defense, the skin presents a unique immunological interface to achieve these goals. The skin contains a high concentration of specialized immune cells, such as antigen-presenting cells and tissue-resident memory T cells. These cells feature diverse and potent combinations of immune receptors, providing access to cellular and molecular level control to modulate immune responses. Thus, skin provides accessible tissue, cellular, and molecular level controls that can be harnessed to improve immunotherapies. Biomaterial platforms - microneedles, nano- and micro-particles, scaffolds, and other technologies - are uniquely capable of modulating the specialized immunological niche in skin by targeting these distinct biological levels of control. This review highlights recent pre-clinical and clinical advances in biomaterial-based approaches to target and modulate immune signaling in the skin at the tissue, cellular, and molecular levels for immunotherapeutic applications. We begin by discussing skin cytoarchitecture and resident immune cells to establish the biological rationale for skin-targeting immunotherapies. This is followed by a critical presentation of biomaterial-based pre-clinical and clinical studies aimed at controlling the immune response in the skin for immunotherapy and therapeutic vaccine applications in cancer, allergy, and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrey A Shah
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, 8278 Paint Branch Drive, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Robert S Oakes
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, 8278 Paint Branch Drive, College Park, MD 20742, USA; Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Maryland Health Care System, 10. N Green Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Christopher M Jewell
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, 8278 Paint Branch Drive, College Park, MD 20742, USA; Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Maryland Health Care System, 10. N Green Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, 8278 Paint Branch Drive, College Park, MD 20742, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Medical School, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA; Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center, 22 S. Greene Street, Suite N9E17, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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5
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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.
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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.
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Vander Straeten A, Sarmadi M, Daristotle JL, Kanelli M, Tostanoski LH, Collins J, Pardeshi A, Han J, Varshney D, Eshaghi B, Garcia J, Forster TA, Li G, Menon N, Pyon SL, Zhang L, Jacob-Dolan C, Powers OC, Hall K, Alsaiari SK, Wolf M, Tibbitt MW, Farra R, Barouch DH, Langer R, Jaklenec A. A microneedle vaccine printer for thermostable COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Nat Biotechnol 2024; 42:510-517. [PMID: 37095347 PMCID: PMC10593912 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-01774-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Decentralized manufacture of thermostable mRNA vaccines in a microneedle patch (MNP) format could enhance vaccine access in low-resource communities by eliminating the need for a cold chain and trained healthcare personnel. Here we describe an automated process for printing MNP Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccines in a standalone device. The vaccine ink is composed of lipid nanoparticles loaded with mRNA and a dissolvable polymer blend that was optimized for high bioactivity by screening formulations in vitro. We demonstrate that the resulting MNPs are shelf stable for at least 6 months at room temperature when assessed using a model mRNA construct. Vaccine loading efficiency and microneedle dissolution suggest that efficacious, microgram-scale doses of mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles could be delivered with a single patch. Immunizations in mice using manually produced MNPs with mRNA encoding severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein receptor-binding domain stimulate long-term immune responses similar to those of intramuscular administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélien Vander Straeten
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Morteza Sarmadi
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - John L Daristotle
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Maria Kanelli
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Lisa H Tostanoski
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joe Collins
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Apurva Pardeshi
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jooli Han
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Dhruv Varshney
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Behnaz Eshaghi
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Johnny Garcia
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Timothy A Forster
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gary Li
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nandita Menon
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sydney L Pyon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Linzixuan Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Catherine Jacob-Dolan
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Olivia C Powers
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kevin Hall
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shahad K Alsaiari
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Morris Wolf
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mark W Tibbitt
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Dan H Barouch
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Robert Langer
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Ana Jaklenec
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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7
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Amir N, Taube R. Role of long noncoding RNA in regulating HIV infection-a comprehensive review. mBio 2024; 15:e0192523. [PMID: 38179937 PMCID: PMC10865847 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01925-23] [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] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
A complete cure against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains out of reach, as the virus persists in stable cell reservoirs that are resistant to antiretroviral therapy. The key to eliminating these reservoirs lies in deciphering the processes that govern viral gene expression and latency. However, while we comprehensively understand how host proteins influence HIV gene expression and viral latency, the emerging role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the context of T cell activation, HIV gene expression, and viral latency remain unexplored. This review dives into the evolving significance of lncRNAs and their impact on HIV gene expression and viral latency. We provide an overview of the current knowledge regarding how lncRNAs regulate HIV gene expression, categorizing them as either activators or inhibitors of viral gene expression and infectivity. Furthermore, we offer insights into the potential therapeutic applications of lncRNAs in combatting HIV. A deeper understanding of how lncRNAs modulate HIV gene transcription holds promise for developing novel RNA-based therapies to complement existing treatment strategies to eradicate HIV reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Amir
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Negev, Israel
| | - Ran Taube
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Negev, Israel
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8
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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.
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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
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Antony JS, Birrer P, Bohnert C, Zimmerli S, Hillmann P, Schaffhauser H, Hoeflich C, Hoeflich A, Khairallah R, Satoh AT, Kappeler I, Ferreira I, Zuideveld KP, Metzger F. Local application of engineered insulin-like growth factor I mRNA demonstrates regenerative therapeutic potential in vivo. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 34:102055. [PMID: 37928443 PMCID: PMC10622308 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.102055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is a growth-promoting anabolic hormone that fosters cell growth and tissue homeostasis. IGF-I deficiency is associated with several diseases, including growth disorders and neurological and musculoskeletal diseases due to impaired regeneration. Despite the vast regenerative potential of IGF-I, its unfavorable pharmacokinetic profile has prevented it from being used therapeutically. In this study, we resolved these challenges by the local administration of IGF-I mRNA, which ensures desirable homeostatic kinetics and non-systemic, local dose-dependent expression of IGF-I protein. Furthermore, IGF-I mRNA constructs were sequence engineered with heterologous signal peptides, which improved in vitro protein secretion (2- to 6-fold) and accelerated in vivo functional regeneration (16-fold) over endogenous IGF-I mRNA. The regenerative potential of engineered IGF-I mRNA was validated in a mouse myotoxic muscle injury and rabbit spinal disc herniation models. Engineered IGF-I mRNA had a half-life of 17-25 h in muscle tissue and showed dose-dependent expression of IGF-I over 2-3 days. Animal models confirm that locally administered IGF-I mRNA remained at the site of injection, contributing to the safety profile of mRNA-based treatment in regenerative medicine. In summary, we demonstrate that engineered IGF-I mRNA holds therapeutic potential with high clinical translatability in different diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sina Zimmerli
- Versameb AG, Technology Park, 4057 Basel, Switzerland
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10
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Wang EY, Sarmadi M, Ying B, Jaklenec A, Langer R. Recent advances in nano- and micro-scale carrier systems for controlled delivery of vaccines. Biomaterials 2023; 303:122345. [PMID: 37918182 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines provide substantial safety against infectious diseases, saving millions of lives each year. The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of vaccination in providing mass-scale immunization against outbreaks. However, the delivery of vaccines imposes a unique set of challenges due to their large molecular size and low room temperature stability. Advanced biomaterials and delivery systems such as nano- and mciro-scale carriers are becoming critical components for successful vaccine development. In this review, we provide an updated overview of recent advances in the development of nano- and micro-scale carriers for controlled delivery of vaccines, focusing on carriers compatible with nucleic acid-based vaccines and therapeutics that emerged amid the recent pandemic. We start by detailing nano-scale delivery systems, focusing on nanoparticles, then move on to microscale systems including hydrogels, microparticles, and 3D printed microneedle patches. Additionally, we delve into emerging methods that move beyond traditional needle-based applications utilizing innovative delivery systems. Future challenges for clinical translation and manufacturing in this rapidly advancing field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Yan Wang
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Morteza Sarmadi
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Binbin Ying
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ana Jaklenec
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | - Robert Langer
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
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11
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Hasan M, Khatun A, Kogure K. Intradermal Delivery of Naked mRNA Vaccines via Iontophoresis. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2678. [PMID: 38140019 PMCID: PMC10747697 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against infectious diseases and for anticancer immunotherapy have garnered considerable attention. Currently, mRNA vaccines encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles are administrated via intramuscular injection using a needle. However, such administration is associated with pain, needle phobia, and lack of patient compliance. Furthermore, side effects such as fever and anaphylaxis associated with the lipid nanoparticle components are also serious problems. Therefore, noninvasive, painless administration of mRNA vaccines that do not contain other problematic components is highly desirable. Antigen-presenting cells reside in the epidermis and dermis, making the skin an attractive vaccination site. Iontophoresis (ItP) uses weak electric current applied to the skin surface and offers a noninvasive permeation technology that enables intradermal delivery of hydrophilic and ionic substances. ItP-mediated intradermal delivery of biological macromolecules has also been studied. Herein, we review the literature on the use of ItP technology for intradermal delivery of naked mRNA vaccines which is expected to overcome the challenges associated with mRNA vaccination. In addition to the physical mechanism, we discuss novel biological mechanisms of iontophoresis, particularly ItP-mediated opening of the skin barriers and the intracellular uptake pathway, and how the combined mechanisms can allow for effective intradermal delivery of mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahadi Hasan
- Department of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan; (M.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Anowara Khatun
- Department of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan; (M.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Kentaro Kogure
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
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12
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Bai C, Wang C, Lu Y. Novel Vectors and Administrations for mRNA Delivery. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2303713. [PMID: 37475520 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
mRNA therapy has shown great potential in infectious disease vaccines, cancer immunotherapy, protein replacement therapy, gene editing, and other fields due to its central role in all life processes. However, mRNA is challenging to pass through the cell membrane due to its significant negative charges and degradation from RNase, so the key to mRNA therapy is efficient packaging and delivery of it with appropriate vectors. Presently researchers have developed various vectors such as viruses and liposomes, but these conventional vectors are now difficult to meet the growing requirement like safety, efficiency, and targeting, so many novel delivery vectors with unique advantages have emerged recently. This review mainly introduces two categories of novel vectors: biomacromolecules and inorganic nanoparticles, as well as two novel methods of control and administration based on these novel vectors: controlled-release administration and non-invasive administration. These novel delivery strategies have the advantages of high safety, biocompatibility, versatility, intelligence, and targeting. This paper analyzes the challenges faced by the field of mRNA delivery in depth, and discusses how to use the characteristics of novel vectors and administrations to solve these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghai Bai
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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13
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Cheng T, Tai Z, Shen M, Li Y, Yu J, Wang J, Zhu Q, Chen Z. Advance and Challenges in the Treatment of Skin Diseases with the Transdermal Drug Delivery System. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2165. [PMID: 37631379 PMCID: PMC10458513 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin diseases are among the most prevalent non-fatal conditions worldwide. The transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) has emerged as a promising approach for treating skin diseases, owing to its numerous advantages such as high bioavailability, low systemic toxicity, and improved patient compliance. However, the effectiveness of the TDDS is hindered by several factors, including the barrier properties of the stratum corneum, the nature of the drug and carrier, and delivery conditions. In this paper, we provide an overview of the development of the TDDS from first-generation to fourth-generation systems, highlighting the characteristics of each carrier in terms of mechanism composition, penetration method, mechanism of action, and recent preclinical studies. We further investigated the significant challenges encountered in the development of the TDDS and the crucial significance of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Road, Bengbu 233030, China; (T.C.); (J.Y.); (J.W.)
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
| | - Zongguang Tai
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
| | - Min Shen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
| | - Ying Li
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
| | - Junxia Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Road, Bengbu 233030, China; (T.C.); (J.Y.); (J.W.)
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
| | - Jiandong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Road, Bengbu 233030, China; (T.C.); (J.Y.); (J.W.)
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
| | - Quangang Zhu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Road, Bengbu 233030, China; (T.C.); (J.Y.); (J.W.)
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Z.T.); (M.S.); (Y.L.)
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14
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Feng YX, Hu H, Wong YY, Yao X, He ML. Microneedles: An Emerging Vaccine Delivery Tool and a Prospective Solution to the Challenges of SARS-CoV-2 Mass Vaccination. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051349. [PMID: 37242591 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is an effective measure to prevent infectious diseases. Protective immunity is induced when the immune system is exposed to a vaccine formulation with appropriate immunogenicity. However, traditional injection vaccination is always accompanied by fear and severe pain. As an emerging vaccine delivery tool, microneedles overcome the problems associated with routine needle vaccination, which can effectively deliver vaccines rich in antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to the epidermis and dermis painlessly, inducing a strong immune response. In addition, microneedles have the advantages of avoiding cold chain storage and have the flexibility of self-operation, which can solve the logistics and delivery obstacles of vaccines, covering the vaccination of the special population more easily and conveniently. Examples include people in rural areas with restricted vaccine storage facilities and medical professionals, elderly and disabled people with limited mobility, infants and young children afraid of pain. Currently, in the late stage of fighting against COVID-19, the main task is to increase the coverage of vaccines, especially for special populations. To address this challenge, microneedle-based vaccines have great potential to increase global vaccination rates and save many lives. This review describes the current progress of microneedles as a vaccine delivery system and its prospects in achieving mass vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Xiu Feng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huan Hu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yu-Yuen Wong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xi Yao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ming-Liang He
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- CityU Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518071, China
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15
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Han W, Liu F, Liu G, Li H, Xu Y, Sun S. Research progress of physical transdermal enhancement techniques in tumor therapy. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:3339-3359. [PMID: 36815500 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc06219d] [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: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The advancement and popularity of transdermal drug delivery (TDD) based on the physical transdermal enhancement technique (PTET) has opened a new paradigm for local tumor treatment. The drug can be directly delivered to the tumor site through the skin, thus avoiding the toxic side effects caused by the first-pass effect and achieving high patient compliance. Further development of PTETs has provided many options for antitumor drugs and laid the foundation for future applications of wearable closed-loop targeting drug delivery systems. In this highlight, the different types of PTETs and related mechanisms, and applications of PTET-related tumor detection and therapy are highlighted. According to their type and characteristics, PTETs are categorized as follows: (1) iontophoresis, (2) electroporation, (3) ultrasound, (4) thermal ablation, and (5) microneedles. PTET-related applications in the local treatment of tumors are categorized as follows: (1) melanoma, (2) breast tumor, (3) squamous cell carcinoma, (4) cervical tumor, and (5) others. The challenges and future prospects of existing PTETs are also discussed. This highlight will provide guidance for the design of PTET-based wearable closed-loop targeting drug delivery systems and personalized therapy for tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqiang Han
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Fengyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Ganjingzi District, Dalian 116023, P. R. China.
| | - Guoxin Liu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Hongjuan Li
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Yongqian Xu
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Shiguo Sun
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
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16
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Zhang Y, Xu Y, Kong H, Zhang J, Chan HF, Wang J, Shao D, Tao Y, Li M. Microneedle system for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2023; 3:20210170. [PMID: 37323624 PMCID: PMC10190997 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20210170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Global increasing demand for high life quality and length facilitates the development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, which apply multidisciplinary theories and techniques to achieve the structural reconstruction and functional recovery of disordered or damaged tissues and organs. However, the clinical performances of adopted drugs, materials, and powerful cells in the laboratory are inescapably limited by the currently available technologies. To tackle the problems, versatile microneedles are developed as the new platform for local delivery of diverse cargos with minimal invasion. The efficient delivery, as well as painless and convenient procedure endow microneedles with good patient compliance in clinic. In this review, we first categorize different microneedle systems and delivery models, and then summarize their applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine mainly involving maintenance and rehabilitation of damaged tissues and organs. In the end, we discuss the advantages, challenges, and prospects of microneedles in depth for future clinical translations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Zhang
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for NanomedicineThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Yanteng Xu
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for NanomedicineThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Huimin Kong
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for NanomedicineThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Jiabin Zhang
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for NanomedicineThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Hon Fai Chan
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative MedicineSchool of Biomedical ScienceThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Jiasi Wang
- School of Biomedical EngineeringSun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Dan Shao
- Institutes of Life SciencesSchool of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Yu Tao
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for NanomedicineThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Mingqiang Li
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Translational MedicineCenter for NanomedicineThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease ResearchGuangzhouChina
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17
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Li D, Liu Q, Yang M, Xu H, Zhu M, Zhang Y, Xu J, Tian C, Yao J, Wang L, Liang Y. Nanomaterials for
mRNA
‐based Therapeutics: Challenges and Opportunities. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10492. [PMID: 37206219 PMCID: PMC10189457 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) holds great potential in developing immunotherapy, protein replacement, and genome editing. In general, mRNA does not have the risk of being incorporated into the host genome and does not need to enter the nucleus for transfection, and it can be expressed even in nondividing cells. Therefore, mRNA-based therapeutics provide a promising strategy for clinical treatment. However, the efficient and safe delivery of mRNA remains a crucial constraint for the clinical application of mRNA therapeutics. Although the stability and tolerability of mRNA can be enhanced by directly retouching the mRNA structure, there is still an urgent need to improve the delivery of mRNA. Recently, significant progress has been made in nanobiotechnology, providing tools for developing mRNA nanocarriers. Nano-drug delivery system is directly used for loading, protecting, and releasing mRNA in the biological microenvironment and can be used to stimulate the translation of mRNA to develop effective intervention strategies. In the present review, we summarized the concept of emerging nanomaterials for mRNA delivery and the latest progress in enhancing the function of mRNA, primarily focusing on the role of exosomes in mRNA delivery. Moreover, we outlined its clinical applications so far. Finally, the key obstacles of mRNA nanocarriers are emphasized, and promising strategies to overcome these obstacles are proposed. Collectively, nano-design materials exert functions for specific mRNA applications, provide new perception for next-generation nanomaterials, and thus revolution of mRNA technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- De‐feng Li
- Department of Gastroenterology Shenzhen People's Hospital (the Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; the First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) Shenzhen Guangdong China
| | - Qi‐song Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen China
| | - Mei‐feng Yang
- Department of Hematology Yantian District People's Hospital Shenzhen Guangdong China
| | - Hao‐ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology Guangzhou China
| | - Min‐zheng Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Medical Administration Huizhou Institute of Occupational Diseases Control and Prevention Huizhou Guangdong China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology Guangzhou China
| | - Cheng‐mei Tian
- Department of Emergency Shenzhen People's Hospital (the Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; the First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) Shenzhen Guangdong China
| | - Jun Yao
- Department of Gastroenterology Shenzhen People's Hospital (the Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; the First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) Shenzhen Guangdong China
| | - Li‐sheng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology Shenzhen People's Hospital (the Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; the First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology) Shenzhen Guangdong China
| | - Yu‐jie Liang
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen Mental Health Center Shenzhen China
- Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University Jining Shandong China
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18
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Protein Transduction Domain-Mediated Delivery of Recombinant Proteins and In Vitro Transcribed mRNAs for Protein Replacement Therapy of Human Severe Genetic Mitochondrial Disorders: The Case of Sco2 Deficiency. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010286. [PMID: 36678915 PMCID: PMC9861957 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial disorders represent a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders with variations in severity and clinical outcomes, mostly characterized by respiratory chain dysfunction and abnormal mitochondrial function. More specifically, mutations in the human SCO2 gene, encoding the mitochondrial inner membrane Sco2 cytochrome c oxidase (COX) assembly protein, have been implicated in the mitochondrial disorder fatal infantile cardioencephalomyopathy with COX deficiency. Since an effective treatment is still missing, a protein replacement therapy (PRT) was explored using protein transduction domain (PTD) technology. Therefore, the human recombinant full-length mitochondrial protein Sco2, fused to TAT peptide (a common PTD), was produced (fusion Sco2 protein) and successfully transduced into fibroblasts derived from a SCO2/COX-deficient patient. This PRT contributed to effective COX assembly and partial recovery of COX activity. In mice, radiolabeled fusion Sco2 protein was biodistributed in the peripheral tissues of mice and successfully delivered into their mitochondria. Complementary to that, an mRNA-based therapeutic approach has been more recently considered as an innovative treatment option. In particular, a patented, novel PTD-mediated IVT-mRNA delivery platform was developed and applied in recent research efforts. PTD-IVT-mRNA of full-length SCO2 was successfully transduced into the fibroblasts derived from a SCO2/COX-deficient patient, translated in host ribosomes into a nascent chain of human Sco2, imported into mitochondria, and processed to the mature protein. Consequently, the recovery of reduced COX activity was achieved, thus suggesting the potential of this mRNA-based technology for clinical translation as a PRT for metabolic/genetic disorders. In this review, such research efforts will be comprehensibly presented and discussed to elaborate their potential in clinical application and therapeutic usefulness.
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19
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Nguyen HX, Nguyen CN. Microneedle-Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Biopharmaceuticals. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010277. [PMID: 36678906 PMCID: PMC9864466 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Transdermal delivery provides numerous benefits over conventional routes of administration. However, this strategy is generally limited to a few molecules with specific physicochemical properties (low molecular weight, high potency, and moderate lipophilicity) due to the barrier function of the stratum corneum layer. Researchers have developed several physical enhancement techniques to expand the applications of the transdermal field; among these, microneedle technology has recently emerged as a promising platform to deliver therapeutic agents of any size into and across the skin. Typically, hydrophilic biomolecules cannot penetrate the skin by passive diffusion. Microneedle insertion disrupts skin integrity and compromises its protective function, thus creating pathways (microchannels) for enhanced permeation of macromolecules. Microneedles not only improve stability but also enhance skin delivery of various biomolecules. Academic institutions and industrial companies have invested substantial resources in the development of microneedle systems for biopharmaceutical delivery. This review article summarizes the most recent research to provide a comprehensive discussion about microneedle-mediated delivery of macromolecules, covering various topics from the introduction of the skin, transdermal delivery, microneedles, and biopharmaceuticals (current status, conventional administration, and stability issues), to different microneedle types, clinical trials, safety and acceptability of microneedles, manufacturing and regulatory issues, and the future of microneedle technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiep X. Nguyen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-404-820-4015
| | - Chien N. Nguyen
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
- Faculty of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
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20
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Amano T, Yu H, Amano M, Leyder E, Badiola M, Ray P, Kim J, Ko AC, Achour A, Weng NP, Kochba E, Levin Y, Ko MSH. Controllable self-replicating RNA vaccine delivered intradermally elicits predominantly cellular immunity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2022:2022.09.05.506686. [PMID: 36263074 PMCID: PMC9580376 DOI: 10.1101/2022.09.05.506686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Intradermal delivery of self-replicating RNA (srRNA) is a promising vaccine platform. Considering that human skin temperature is around 33°C, lower than core body temperature of 37°C, we have developed an srRNA that functions optimally at skin temperature and is inactivated at or above 37°C as a safety switch. This temperature- c ontrollable srRNA (c-srRNA), when tested as an intradermal vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, functions when injected naked without lipid nanoparticles. Unlike most currently available vaccines, c-srRNA vaccines predominantly elicit cellular immunity with little or no antibody production. Interestingly, c-srRNA-vaccinated mice produced antigen-specific antibodies upon subsequent stimulation with antigen protein. Antigen-specific antibodies were also produced when B-cell stimulation using antigen protein was followed by c-srRNA booster vaccination. Using c-srRNA, we have designed a pan-coronavirus booster vaccine that incorporates both spike receptor binding domains as viral surface proteins and evolutionarily conserved nucleoproteins as viral non-surface proteins, from both SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV. It can thereby potentially immunize against SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and their variants. c-srRNA may provide a route to activate cellular immunity against a wide variety of pathogens.
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21
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Zhu T, Zhang W, Jiang P, Zhou S, Wang C, Qiu L, Shi H, Cui P, Wang J. Progress in Intradermal and Transdermal Gene Therapy with Microneedles. Pharm Res 2022; 39:2475-2486. [PMID: 36008737 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03376-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy is one of the most widely studied treatments and has the potential to treat a variety of intractable diseases. The skin's limited permeability, as the body's initial protective barrier, drastically inhibits the delivery effect of gene medicine. Given the potential adverse effects and physicochemical features of the medications, improving generic drug penetration into the skin barrier and achieving an effective level of target tissues remains a challenge. Microneedles have made tremendous improvements in aided gene transfer and medication delivery as a unique method. Microneedles offer the advantage of being minimally invasive and painless, as well as the ability to distribute gene medicines straight through the stratum corneum. Microneedles have been used to penetrate skin tissue with various nucleic acids and medicines in recent years, allowing for a wide range of applications in the treatment of skin ailments. This review focuses on skin-related disorders and immunity, and it primarily discusses the progress of microneedle transdermal gene therapy in recent years. It also complements the current major vectors and related microneedle gene therapy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenya Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengju Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuwen Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Qiu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China
| | - Honglei Shi
- Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
- The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou, 213017, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Pengfei Cui
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jianhao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, People's Republic of China.
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22
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Intradermal delivery of mRNA using cryomicroneedles. Acta Biomater 2022; 148:133-141. [PMID: 35697200 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Microneedles can realize the intradermal and transdermal delivery of drugs. However, most conventional microneedles made of metal, polymer and ceramics are unsuitable for the delivery of mRNA drugs that are fragile and temperature-sensitive. This study explores the usage of cryomicroneedles (CryoMNs) for the intradermal delivery of mRNA molecules. Taking luciferase mRNA as an example, we first optimize the formulation of CryoMNs to maximize mRNA stability. Later, in the mouse model, we compare the delivery efficiency with the conventional subcutaneous injection for both the luciferase mRNA and COVID-19 Comirnaty mRNA vaccines, where CryoMNs delivered mRNA vaccines successfully induce specific B-cell antibody, neutralizing activity and T-cell responses. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: mRNA vaccines are fragile and temperature-sensitive, so they are mainly delivered by intramuscular injection that often causes pain and requires clinical expertise to immunize patients. Microneedles permit convenient, fast and safe vaccination. However, existing microneedle platforms are ineffective to protect the integrity of mRNA vaccines in fabrication, storage, and administration. This work utilizes cryomicroneedles (CryoMNs) technology to intradermally deliver mRNA. In the mouse model, CryoMNs are compared with the subcutaneous injection for the delivery efficiency of both the luciferase mRNA and COVID-19 Comirnaty mRNA vaccines, where CryoMNs delivered mRNA vaccines successfully produce specific B-cell antibodies, T-cell responses, and neutralizing activity. This work is expected to provide a new delivery strategy for the emerging mRNA therapeutics.
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23
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Sasso J, Ambrose BJB, Tenchov R, Datta RS, Basel MT, DeLong RK, Zhou QA. The Progress and Promise of RNA Medicine─An Arsenal of Targeted Treatments. J Med Chem 2022; 65:6975-7015. [PMID: 35533054 PMCID: PMC9115888 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, there has been a shift in research, clinical development, and commercial activity to exploit the many physiological roles of RNA for use in medicine. With the rapid success in the development of lipid-RNA nanoparticles for mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 and with several approved RNA-based drugs, RNA has catapulted to the forefront of drug research. With diverse functions beyond the role of mRNA in producing antigens or therapeutic proteins, many classes of RNA serve regulatory roles in cells and tissues. These RNAs have potential as new therapeutics, with RNA itself serving as either a drug or a target. Here, based on the CAS Content Collection, we provide a landscape view of the current state and outline trends in RNA research in medicine across time, geography, therapeutic pipelines, chemical modifications, and delivery mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet
M. Sasso
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Barbara J. B. Ambrose
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Rumiana Tenchov
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Ruchira S. Datta
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Matthew T. Basel
- College
of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, United States
| | - Robert K. DeLong
- Nanotechnology
Innovation Center Kansas State, Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, United States
| | - Qiongqiong Angela Zhou
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
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24
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Ezra Manicum AL, Sargazi S, Razzaq S, Kumar GV, Rahdar A, Er S, Ain QU, Bilal M, Aboudzadeh MA. Nano-immunotherapeutic strategies for targeted RNA delivery: Emphasizing the role of monocyte/macrophages as nanovehicles to treat glioblastoma multiforme. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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25
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Neurosurgery at the crossroads of immunology and nanotechnology. New reality in the COVID-19 pandemic. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 181:114033. [PMID: 34808227 PMCID: PMC8604570 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurosurgery as one of the most technologically demanding medical fields rapidly adapts the newest developments from multiple scientific disciplines for treating brain tumors. Despite half a century of clinical trials, survival for brain primary tumors such as glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary brain cancer, or rare ones including primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), is dismal. Cancer therapy and research have currently shifted toward targeted approaches, and personalized therapies. The orchestration of novel and effective blood-brain barrier (BBB) drug delivery approaches, targeting of cancer cells and regulating tumor microenvironment including the immune system are the key themes of this review. As the global pandemic due to SARS-CoV-2 virus continues, neurosurgery and neuro-oncology must wrestle with the issues related to treatment-related immune dysfunction. The selection of chemotherapeutic treatments, even rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) that occur among immunocompromised people, and number of vaccinations they have to get are emerging as a new chapter for modern Nano neurosurgery.
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Effect of mRNA Delivery Modality and Formulation on Cutaneous mRNA Distribution and Downstream eGFP Expression. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14010151. [PMID: 35057047 PMCID: PMC8780332 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro transcribed messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) constitutes an emerging therapeutic class with several clinical applications. This study presents a systematic comparison of different technologies—intradermal injection, microneedle injection, jet injection, and fractional laser ablation—for the topical cutaneous delivery of mRNA. Delivery of Cy5 labeled mRNA and non-labeled enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) expressing mRNA was investigated in a viable ex vivo porcine skin model and monitored for 48 h. Forty 10 µm-thick horizontal sections were prepared from each skin sample and Cy5 labeled mRNA or eGFP expression visualized as a function of depth by confocal laser scanning microscopy and immunohistochemistry. A pixel-based method was used to create a semi-quantitative biodistribution profile. Different spatial distributions of Cy5 labeled mRNA and eGFP expression were observed, depending on the delivery modality; localization of eGFP expression pointed to the cells responsible. Delivery efficiencies and knowledge of delivery sites can facilitate development of efficient, targeted mRNA-based therapeutics.
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Microneedle systems for delivering nucleic acid drugs. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL INVESTIGATION 2022; 52:273-292. [PMID: 35003824 PMCID: PMC8726529 DOI: 10.1007/s40005-021-00558-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Nucleic acid-based gene therapy is a promising technology that has been used in various applications such as novel vaccination platforms for infectious/cancer diseases and cellular reprogramming because of its fast, specific, and effective properties. Despite its potential, the parenteral nucleic acid drug formulation exhibits instability and low efficacy due to various barriers, such as stability concerns related to its liquid state formulation, skin barriers, and endogenous nuclease degradation. As promising alternatives, many attempts have been made to perform nucleic acid delivery using a microneedle system. With its minimal invasiveness, microneedle can deliver nucleic acid drugs with enhanced efficacy and improved stability. Area covered This review describes nucleic acid medicines' current state and features and their delivery systems utilizing non-viral vectors and physical delivery systems. In addition, different types of microneedle delivery systems and their properties are briefly reviewed. Furthermore, recent advances of microneedle-based nucleic acid drugs, including featured vaccination applications, are described. Expert opinion Nucleic acid drugs have shown significant potential beyond the limitation of conventional small molecules, and the current COVID-19 pandemic highlights the importance of nucleic acid therapies as a novel vaccination platform. Microneedle-mediated nucleic acid drug delivery is a potential platform for less invasive nucleic acid drug delivery. Microneedle system can show enhanced efficacy, stability, and improved patient convenience through self-administration with less pain.
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Singh P, Muhammad I, Nelson NE, Tran KTM, Vinikoor T, Chorsi MT, D’Orio E, Nguyen TD. Transdermal delivery for gene therapy. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2022; 12:2613-2633. [PMID: 35538189 PMCID: PMC9089295 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01138-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a critical constituent of treatment approaches for genetic diseases and has gained tremendous attention. Treating and preventing diseases at the genetic level using genetic materials such as DNA or RNAs could be a new avenue in medicine. However, delivering genes is always a challenge as these molecules are sensitive to various enzymes inside the body, often produce systemic toxicity, and suffer from off-targeting problems. In this regard, transdermal delivery has emerged as an appealing approach to enable a high efficiency and low toxicity of genetic medicines. This review systematically summarizes outstanding transdermal gene delivery methods for applications in skin cancer treatment, vaccination, wound healing, and other therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parbeen Singh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - I’jaaz Muhammad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - Nicole E. Nelson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - Khanh T. M. Tran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - Tra Vinikoor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - Meysam T. Chorsi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA ,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - Ethan D’Orio
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA ,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Advanced Manufacturing for Energy Systems, Storrs, USA
| | - Thanh D. Nguyen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA ,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
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Tortajada L, Felip C, Vicent MJ. Polymer-based Non-viral Vectors for Gene Therapy in the Skin. Polym Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d1py01485d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy has emerged as a versatile technique with the potential to treat a range of human diseases; however, examples of the topical application of gene therapy as a treatment...
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Abstract
Over the past two decades, research on mRNA-based therapies has exploded, mainly because of the inherent advantages of mRNA, including a low integration probability, transient expression, and simple and rapid in vitro transcription production approaches. In addition, thanks to improved stability and reduced immunogenicity by advanced strategies, the application of mRNA has expanded from protein replacement therapy to vaccination, gene editing and other fields, showing great promise for clinical application. Recently, with the successive launch of two mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, mRNA technology has attracted an enormous amount of attention from scientific researchers as well as pharmaceutical companies. Because of the large molecular weight, hydrophilicity, and highly negative charge densities of mRNA, it is difficult to overcome the intracellular delivery barriers. Therefore, various delivery vehicles have been developed to achieve more effective mRNA delivery. In general, conventional mRNA administration methods are based on injection strategies, including intravenous, intramuscular, intradermal, and subcutaneous injections. Although these routes circumvent the absorption barriers to some extent, they bring about injection-related concerns such as safety issues, pain, low compliance, and difficulty in repeated dosing, increasing the need to explore alternative strategies for noninvasive delivery. The ideal noninvasive delivery systems are featured with easy to use, low risks of infection, and good patient compliance. At the same time, they allow patients to self-administer, reducing reliance on professional healthcare workers and interference with bodily functions and daily life. In particular, the noninvasive mucosal delivery of mRNA vaccines can induce mucosal immune responses, which are important for resisting pathogens infected through mucosal routes.Because of the potential clinical benefits mentioned above, we detailed the existing strategies for the noninvasive delivery of mRNA in this review, including delivery via the nasal, pulmonary, vaginal, and transdermal routes. First, we discussed the unique strengths and biological hindrances of each route on the basis of physiology. Next, we comprehensively summarized the research progress reported so far and analyzed the technologies and delivery vehicles used, hoping to provide some references for further explorations. Among these noninvasive routes, nasal and pulmonary delivery are the earliest and most intensively studied areas, mostly owing to their favorable physiological structures: the nasal or pulmonary mucosa is easily accessible, highly permeable and highly vascularized. In contrast, the development of vaginal mRNA delivery is relatively less reported, and the current research mainly focused on some local applications. In addition, microneedles have also been investigated to overcome skin barriers for mRNA delivery in recent years, making microneedle-based delivery an emerging alternative pathway. In summary, a variety of mRNA formulations and delivery strategies have been developed for noninvasive mRNA delivery, skillfully combining appropriate vehicles or physical technologies to enhance effectiveness. We surmise that continuous advances and technological innovations in the development of mRNA noninvasive delivery will accelerate the translation from experimental research to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Qin
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, P. R. China
| | - Guangsheng Du
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, P. R. China
| | - Xun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, P. R. China
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Steinle H, Weber J, Stoppelkamp S, Große-Berkenbusch K, Golombek S, Weber M, Canak-Ipek T, Trenz SM, Schlensak C, Avci-Adali M. Delivery of synthetic mRNAs for tissue regeneration. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 179:114007. [PMID: 34710530 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, nucleic acid-based therapeutics have gained increasing importance as novel treatment options for disease prevention and treatment. Synthetic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) are promising nucleic acid-based drugs to transiently express desired proteins that are missing or defective. Recently, synthetic mRNA-based vaccines encoding viral proteins have been approved for emergency use against COVID-19. Various types of vehicles, such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and liposomes, are being investigated to enable the efficient uptake of mRNA molecules into desired cells. In addition, the introduction of novel chemical modifications into mRNAs increased the stability, enabled the modulation of nucleic acid-based drugs, and increased the efficiency of mRNA-based therapeutic approaches. In this review, novel and innovative strategies for the delivery of synthetic mRNA-based therapeutics for tissue regeneration are discussed. Moreover, with this review, we aim to highlight the versatility of synthetic mRNA molecules for various applications in the field of regenerative medicine and also discuss translational challenges and required improvements for mRNA-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidrun Steinle
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Josefin Weber
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sandra Stoppelkamp
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Große-Berkenbusch
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sonia Golombek
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Marbod Weber
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Tuba Canak-Ipek
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sarah-Maria Trenz
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Christian Schlensak
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Meltem Avci-Adali
- University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Calwerstraße 7/1, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
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Microneedle-Mediated Vaccination: Innovation and Translation. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 179:113919. [PMID: 34375682 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Vaccine administration by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection is the most commonly prescribed route for inoculation, however, it is often associated with some deficiencies such as low compliance, high professionalism, and risk of infection. Therefore, the application of microneedles for vaccine delivery has gained widespread interests in the past few years due to its high compliance, minimal invasiveness, and convenience. This review focuses on recent advances in the development and application of microneedles for vaccination based on different delivery strategies, and introduces the current status of microneedle-mediated vaccination in clinical translation. The prospects for its application including opportunities and challenges are further discussed.
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Aich K, Singh T, Dang S. Advances in microneedle-based transdermal delivery for drugs and peptides. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 12:1556-1568. [PMID: 34564827 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-01056-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Transdermal drug delivery is a viable and clinically proven route of administration. This route specifically requires overcoming the mechanical barrier provided by the Stratum Corneum of epidermis and vascular and nervous networks within the dermis. First-generation Transdermal patches and second-generation iontophoretic patches have been translated into commercial clinical products successfully. The current review reports different studies that aim to enhance the transdermal delivery of biopharmaceutical using microneedles and their effect on drug delivery. Microneedles (MN) are the micron-scale hybrid between transdermal patches and hypodermic syringes. Microneedles are tested and proven to show better delivery of the drugs, overcoming the drawbacks of hypodermic syringes. Multiple microneedles designs have been fabricated i.e. solid, coated, hollow, and polymer microneedles. Hollow microneedles are shorter in length but similar to hypodermic needles and have pore for infusion of liquid formulation of the drug. Solid microneedles a patch is applied after creating a hole in the skin; Drugs are coated on the surface of Coated microneedles; Polymer microneedles can be of different types like dissolving, non-dissolving or hydrogel-forming made up of polymers. Various advantages and limitations associated with the use of these techniques are discussed. Delivery of peptide and protein molecules with microneedles represents a significant opportunity for a better clinical outcome and hence value creation compared to standard injectable routes of administration. The advancement in various formulation and microfabrication techniques are currently being focused to aid the delivery of protein drugs via microneedles. The most recent advances and limitations in Microneedles -mediated protein and peptide delivery were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishanu Aich
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Tanya Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shweta Dang
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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34
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Di Trani CA, Fernandez-Sendin M, Cirella A, Segués A, Olivera I, Bolaños E, Melero I, Berraondo P. Advances in mRNA-based drug discovery in cancer immunotherapy. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2021; 17:41-53. [PMID: 34496689 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1978972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive T-cell therapy based on chimeric antigen receptors are the spearhead strategies to exploit the immune system to fight cancer. To take advantage of the full potential of the immune system, cancer immunotherapy must incorporate new biotechnologies such as mRNA technology that may synergize with already approved immunotherapies and act more effectively on immune targets. AREAS COVERED This review describes the basics of mRNA biotechnology and provides insight into the recent advances in the use of mRNA for the local and systemic delivery of immunostimulatory antibodies, proinflammatory cytokines or for optimizing adoptive T-cell therapy. EXPERT OPINION mRNA-based nanomedicines have great potential to expand the arsenal of immunotherapy tools due to their ability to simplify and accelerate drug development and their suitability for transient and local expression of immunostimulatory molecules, whose systemic and sustained expression would be toxic. The success of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines has highlighted the feasibility of this approach. Continuous advances in the delivery and construction of RNA-based vectors hold promise for improvements in clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Augusta Di Trani
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Myriam Fernandez-Sendin
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Assunta Cirella
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Aina Segués
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh UK
| | - Irene Olivera
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Elixabet Bolaños
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Melero
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain.,Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Cáncer (Ciberonc), Spain.,Departments of Oncology and Immunology, Clínica Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Pedro Berraondo
- Program of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cima Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain.,Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De Cáncer (Ciberonc), Spain
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35
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Chakraborty C, Sharma AR, Bhattacharya M, Lee SS. From COVID-19 to Cancer mRNA Vaccines: Moving From Bench to Clinic in the Vaccine Landscape. Front Immunol 2021; 12:679344. [PMID: 34305909 PMCID: PMC8293291 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.679344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, mRNA vaccines have become a significant type of therapeutic and have created new fields in the biopharmaceutical industry. mRNA vaccines are promising next-generation vaccines that have introduced a new age in vaccinology. The recent approval of two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2) has accelerated mRNA vaccine technology and boosted the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. These mRNA vaccines will help to tackle COVID-19 pandemic through immunization, offering considerable hope for future mRNA vaccines. Human trials with data both from mRNA cancer vaccines and mRNA infectious disease vaccines have provided encouraging results, inspiring the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries to focus on this area of research. In this article, we discuss current mRNA vaccines broadly in two parts. In the first part, mRNA vaccines in general and COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are discussed. We presented the mRNA vaccine structure in general, the different delivery systems, the immune response, and the recent clinical trials for mRNA vaccines (both for cancer mRNA vaccines and different infectious diseases mRNA vaccines). In the second part, different COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are explained. Finally, we illustrated a snapshot of the different leading mRNA vaccine developers, challenges, and future prospects of mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, India
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
| | - Ashish Ranjan Sharma
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
| | | | - Sang-Soo Lee
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
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Borah P, Deb PK, Al-Shar’i NA, Dahabiyeh LA, Venugopala KN, Singh V, Shinu P, Hussain S, Deka S, Chandrasekaran B, Jaradat DMM. Perspectives on RNA Vaccine Candidates for COVID-19. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:635245. [PMID: 33869282 PMCID: PMC8044912 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.635245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
With the current outbreak caused by SARS-CoV-2, vaccination is acclaimed as a public health care priority. Rapid genetic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 has triggered the scientific community to search for effective vaccines. Collaborative approaches from research institutes and biotech companies have acknowledged the use of viral proteins as potential vaccine candidates against COVID-19. Nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) vaccines are considered the next generation vaccines as they can be rapidly designed to encode any desirable viral sequence including the highly conserved antigen sequences. RNA vaccines being less prone to host genome integration (cons of DNA vaccines) and anti-vector immunity (a compromising factor of viral vectors) offer great potential as front-runners for universal COVID-19 vaccine. The proof of concept for RNA-based vaccines has already been proven in humans, and the prospects for commercialization are very encouraging as well. With the emergence of COVID-19, mRNA-1273, an mRNA vaccine developed by Moderna, Inc. was the first to enter human trials, with the first volunteer receiving the dose within 10 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 genetic sequencing. The recent interest in mRNA vaccines has been fueled by the state of the art technologies that enhance mRNA stability and improve vaccine delivery. Interestingly, as per the "Draft landscape of COVID-19 candidate vaccines" published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on December 29, 2020, seven potential RNA based COVID-19 vaccines are in different stages of clinical trials; of them, two candidates already received emergency use authorization, and another 22 potential candidates are undergoing pre-clinical investigations. This review will shed light on the rationality of RNA as a platform for vaccine development against COVID-19, highlighting the possible pros and cons, lessons learned from the past, and the future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pobitra Borah
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, India
- Pratiksha Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Assam, India
| | - Pran Kishore Deb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Nizar A. Al-Shar’i
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Lina A. Dahabiyeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Katharigatta N. Venugopala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Vinayak Singh
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit, Department of Chemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Pottathil Shinu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Snawar Hussain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Satyendra Deka
- Pratiksha Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Assam, India
| | - Balakumar Chandrasekaran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Da’san M. M. Jaradat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
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Exosomes for mRNA delivery: a novel biotherapeutic strategy with hurdles and hope. BMC Biotechnol 2021; 21:20. [PMID: 33691652 PMCID: PMC7945253 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-021-00683-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, therapeutic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have emerged as a highly promising new class of drugs for protein replacement therapies. Due to the recent developments, the incorporation of modified nucleotides in synthetic mRNAs can lead to maximizing protein expression and reducing adverse immunogenicity. Despite these stunning improvements, mRNA therapy is limited by the need for the development of safe and efficient carriers to protect the mRNA integrity for in vivo applications. Recently, leading candidates for in vivo drug delivery vehicles are cell-derived exosomes, which have fewer immunogenic responses. In the current study, the key hurdles facing mRNA-based therapeutics, with an emphasis on recent strategies to overcoming its immunogenicity and instability, were highlighted. Then the immunogenicity and toxicity of exosomes derived from various cell sources were mentioned in detail. Finally, an overview of the recent strategies in using exosomes for mRNA delivery in the treatment of multiple diseases was stated.
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Alimardani V, Abolmaali SS, Yousefi G, Rahiminezhad Z, Abedi M, Tamaddon A, Ahadian S. Microneedle Arrays Combined with Nanomedicine Approaches for Transdermal Delivery of Therapeutics. J Clin Med 2021; 10:E181. [PMID: 33419118 PMCID: PMC7825522 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Organic and inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) have shown promising outcomes in transdermal drug delivery. NPs can not only enhance the skin penetration of small/biomacromolecule therapeutic agents but can also impart control over drug release or target impaired tissue. Thanks to their unique optical, photothermal, and superparamagnetic features, NPs have been also utilized for the treatment of skin disorders, imaging, and biosensing applications. Despite the widespread transdermal applications of NPs, their delivery across the stratum corneum, which is the main skin barrier, has remained challenging. Microneedle array (MN) technology has recently revealed promising outcomes in the delivery of various formulations, especially NPs to deliver both hydrophilic and hydrophobic therapeutic agents. The present work reviews the advancements in the application of MNs and NPs for an effective transdermal delivery of a wide range of therapeutics in cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy, photothermal and photodynamic therapy, peptide/protein vaccination, and the gene therapy of various diseases. In addition, this paper provides an overall insight on MNs' challenges and summarizes the recent achievements in clinical trials with future outlooks on the transdermal delivery of a wide range of nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Alimardani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran; (V.A.); (Z.R.); (M.A.); (A.T.)
| | - Samira Sadat Abolmaali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran; (V.A.); (Z.R.); (M.A.); (A.T.)
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran;
| | - Gholamhossein Yousefi
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran;
| | - Zahra Rahiminezhad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran; (V.A.); (Z.R.); (M.A.); (A.T.)
| | - Mehdi Abedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran; (V.A.); (Z.R.); (M.A.); (A.T.)
| | - Alimohammad Tamaddon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran; (V.A.); (Z.R.); (M.A.); (A.T.)
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 71348-45794, Iran;
| | - Samad Ahadian
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
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Dammes N, Peer D. Paving the Road for RNA Therapeutics. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:755-775. [PMID: 32893005 PMCID: PMC7470715 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic RNA molecules possess high potential for treating medical conditions if they can successfully reach the target cell upon administration. However, unmodified RNA molecules are rapidly degraded and cleared from the circulation. In addition, their large size and negative charge complicates their passing through the cell membrane. The difficulty of RNA therapy, therefore, lies in the efficient intracellular delivery of intact RNA molecules to the tissue of interest without inducing adverse effects. Here, we outline the recent developments in therapeutic RNA delivery and discuss the wide potential in manipulating the function of cells with RNAs. The focus is not only on the variety of delivery strategies but also on the versatile nature of RNA and its wide applicability. This wide applicability is especially interesting when considering the modular nature of nucleic acids. An optimal delivery vehicle, therefore, can facilitate numerous clinical applications of RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Dammes
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dan Peer
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
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40
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Xu S, Yang K, Li R, Zhang L. mRNA Vaccine Era-Mechanisms, Drug Platform and Clinical Prospection. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6582. [PMID: 32916818 PMCID: PMC7554980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)-based drugs, notably mRNA vaccines, have been widely proven as a promising treatment strategy in immune therapeutics. The extraordinary advantages associated with mRNA vaccines, including their high efficacy, a relatively low severity of side effects, and low attainment costs, have enabled them to become prevalent in pre-clinical and clinical trials against various infectious diseases and cancers. Recent technological advancements have alleviated some issues that hinder mRNA vaccine development, such as low efficiency that exist in both gene translation and in vivo deliveries. mRNA immunogenicity can also be greatly adjusted as a result of upgraded technologies. In this review, we have summarized details regarding the optimization of mRNA vaccines, and the underlying biological mechanisms of this form of vaccines. Applications of mRNA vaccines in some infectious diseases and cancers are introduced. It also includes our prospections for mRNA vaccine applications in diseases caused by bacterial pathogens, such as tuberculosis. At the same time, some suggestions for future mRNA vaccine development about storage methods, safety concerns, and personalized vaccine synthesis can be found in the context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
| | - Kunpeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
| | - Rose Li
- M.B.B.S., School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China;
| | - Lu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai 200438, China
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41
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Guillot AJ, Cordeiro AS, Donnelly RF, Montesinos MC, Garrigues TM, Melero A. Microneedle-Based Delivery: An Overview of Current Applications and Trends. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12060569. [PMID: 32575392 PMCID: PMC7355570 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12060569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Microneedle arrays (MNA) are considered as one of the most promising resources to achieve systemic effects by transdermal delivery of drugs. They are designed as a minimally invasive, painless system which can bypass the stratum corneum, overcoming the potential drawbacks of subcutaneous injections and other transdermal delivery systems such as chemical enhancers, nano and microparticles, or physical treatments. As a trendy field in pharmaceutical and biomedical research, its applications are constantly evolving, even though they are based on very well-established techniques. The number of molecules administered by MNA are also increasing, with insulin and vaccines administration being the most investigated. Furthermore, MNA are being used to deliver cells and applied in other organs and tissues like the eyes and buccal mucosae. This review intends to offer a general overview of the current state of MNA research, focusing on the strategies, applications, and types of molecules delivered recently by these systems. In addition, some information about the materials and manufacturing processes is presented and safety data is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio José Guillot
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Avda. Vincent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Burjassot, Spain; (A.J.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Ana Sara Cordeiro
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (A.S.C.); (R.F.D.)
| | - Ryan F. Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (A.S.C.); (R.F.D.)
| | - M. Carmen Montesinos
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Avda. Vincent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
- Center of Molecular Recognition and Technological Development (IDM), 46100 Burjassot, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.C.M.); (T.M.G.)
| | - Teresa M. Garrigues
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Avda. Vincent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Burjassot, Spain; (A.J.G.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence: (M.C.M.); (T.M.G.)
| | - Ana Melero
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Avda. Vincent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Burjassot, Spain; (A.J.G.); (A.M.)
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Microneedle Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Protein, Peptide and Antibody Based Therapeutics: Current Status and Future Considerations. Pharm Res 2020; 37:117. [PMID: 32488611 PMCID: PMC7266419 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-020-02844-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The success of protein, peptide and antibody based therapies is evident - the biopharmaceuticals market is predicted to reach $388 billion by 2024 [1], and more than half of the current top 20 blockbuster drugs are biopharmaceuticals. However, the intrinsic properties of biopharmaceuticals has restricted the routes available for successful drug delivery. While providing 100% bioavailability, the intravenous route is often associated with pain and needle phobia from a patient perspective, which may translate as a reluctance to receive necessary treatment. Several non-invasive strategies have since emerged to overcome these limitations. One such strategy involves the use of microneedles (MNs), which are able to painlessly penetrate the stratum corneum barrier to dramatically increase transdermal drug delivery of numerous drugs. This review reports the wealth of studies that aim to enhance transdermal delivery of biopharmaceutics using MNs. The true potential of MNs as a drug delivery device for biopharmaceuticals will not only rely on acceptance from prescribers, patients and the regulatory authorities, but the ability to upscale MN manufacture in a cost-effective manner and the long term safety of MN application. Thus, the current barriers to clinical translation of MNs, and how these barriers may be overcome are also discussed.
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Nanomedicines to Deliver mRNA: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10020364. [PMID: 32093140 PMCID: PMC7075285 DOI: 10.3390/nano10020364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The use of messenger RNA (mRNA) in gene therapy is increasing in recent years, due to its unique features compared to plasmid DNA: Transient expression, no need to enter into the nucleus and no risk of insertional mutagenesis. Nevertheless, the clinical application of mRNA as a therapeutic tool is limited by its instability and ability to activate immune responses; hence, mRNA chemical modifications together with the design of suitable vehicles result essential. This manuscript includes a revision of the strategies employed to enhance in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA functionality and efficacy, including the optimization of its stability and translational efficiency, as well as the regulation of its immunostimulatory properties. An overview of the nanosystems designed to protect the mRNA and to overcome the intra and extracellular barriers for successful delivery is also included. Finally, the present and future applications of mRNA nanomedicines for immunization against infectious diseases and cancer, protein replacement, gene editing, and regenerative medicine are highlighted.
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44
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Leng Q, Chen L, Lv Y. RNA-based scaffolds for bone regeneration: application and mechanisms of mRNA, miRNA and siRNA. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:3190-3205. [PMID: 32194862 PMCID: PMC7053199 DOI: 10.7150/thno.42640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, more than 1.5 million patients undergo bone graft surgeries annually, and the development of biomaterial scaffolds that mimic natural bone for bone grafting remains a tremendous challenge. In recent decades, due to the improved understanding of the mechanisms of bone remodeling and the rapid development of gene therapy, RNA (including messenger RNA (mRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and short interfering RNA (siRNA)) has attracted increased attention as a new tool for bone tissue engineering due to its unique nature and great potential to cure bone defects. Different types of RNA play roles via a variety of mechanisms in bone-related cells in vivo as well as after synthesis in vitro. In addition, RNAs are delivered to injured sites by loading into scaffolds or systemic administration after combination with vectors for bone tissue engineering. However, the challenge of effectively and stably delivering RNA into local tissue remains to be solved. This review describes the mechanisms of the three types of RNAs and the application of the relevant types of RNA delivery vectors and scaffolds in bone regeneration. The improvements in their development are also discussed.
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45
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Wadhwa A, Aljabbari A, Lokras A, Foged C, Thakur A. Opportunities and Challenges in the Delivery of mRNA-based Vaccines. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E102. [PMID: 32013049 PMCID: PMC7076378 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12020102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 277] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past few years, there has been increasing focus on the use of messenger RNA (mRNA) as a new therapeutic modality. Current clinical efforts encompassing mRNA-based drugs are directed toward infectious disease vaccines, cancer immunotherapies, therapeutic protein replacement therapies, and treatment of genetic diseases. However, challenges that impede the successful translation of these molecules into drugs are that (i) mRNA is a very large molecule, (ii) it is intrinsically unstable and prone to degradation by nucleases, and (iii) it activates the immune system. Although some of these challenges have been partially solved by means of chemical modification of the mRNA, intracellular delivery of mRNA still represents a major hurdle. The clinical translation of mRNA-based therapeutics requires delivery technologies that can ensure stabilization of mRNA under physiological conditions. Here, we (i) review opportunities and challenges in the delivery of mRNA-based therapeutics with a focus on non-viral delivery systems, (ii) present the clinical status of mRNA vaccines, and (iii) highlight perspectives on the future of this promising new type of medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Aneesh Thakur
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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46
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Blakney AK, Liu R, Yilmaz G, Abdouni Y, McKay PF, Bouton CR, Shattock RJ, Becer CR. Precisely targeted gene delivery in human skin using supramolecular cationic glycopolymers. Polym Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0py00449a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Gene delivery has become the focus of clinical treatments, thus motivating delivery strategies that are capable of targeting certain cell types in the context of both vaccines and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Blakney
- Department of Medicine
- Division of Infectious Diseases
- Section of Immunology of infection
- Imperial College London
- London W21PG
| | - Renjie Liu
- School of Engineering and Materials Science
- Queen Mary University of London
- London
- UK
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering
| | - Gokhan Yilmaz
- School of Pharmacy
- University of Nottingham
- Nottingham
- UK
- Department of Chemistry
| | - Yamin Abdouni
- School of Engineering and Materials Science
- Queen Mary University of London
- London
- UK
| | - Paul F. McKay
- Department of Medicine
- Division of Infectious Diseases
- Section of Immunology of infection
- Imperial College London
- London W21PG
| | - Clément R. Bouton
- Department of Medicine
- Division of Infectious Diseases
- Section of Immunology of infection
- Imperial College London
- London W21PG
| | - Robin J. Shattock
- Department of Medicine
- Division of Infectious Diseases
- Section of Immunology of infection
- Imperial College London
- London W21PG
| | - C. Remzi Becer
- School of Engineering and Materials Science
- Queen Mary University of London
- London
- UK
- Department of Chemistry
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47
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Sun X, Zeng L, Huang Y. Transcutaneous delivery of DNA/mRNA for cancer therapeutic vaccination. J Gene Med 2019; 21:e3089. [PMID: 30958606 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic vaccination is a promising strategy for the immunotherapy of cancers. It eradicates cancer cells by evoking and strengthening the patient's own immune system. Because of the easy access and sophisticated immune networks, the skin becomes an ideal target organ for vaccination. Genetic vaccines have been widely investigated, with the advantages of the delivery of multiple antigens and a lower cost for production compared to protein/peptide vaccines. This review summarizes the advances made with respect to the transcutaneous delivery of DNA/mRNA for cancer therapeutic vaccination and also gives a brief description of the immunological milieu of the skin and the importance of dendritic cell-targeting in vaccine delivery, as well as the technologies that aim to facilitate antigen delivery and modulate antigen-presenting cells, thus improving cellular responses. The applications of genetic vaccines encoding tumor antigens delivered through the skin route, both in preclinical and clinical trials, are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Sun
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linghui Zeng
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yongzhuo Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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48
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Li P, Wang J, Cao M, Deng Q, Jiang S, Wu MX, Lu L. Topical Application of a Vitamin A Derivative and Its Combination With Non-ablative Fractional Laser Potentiates Cutaneous Influenza Vaccination. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2570. [PMID: 30425691 PMCID: PMC6218415 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin contains a large number of antigen presenting cells, making intradermal (ID) injection one of the most effective ways for vaccine administration. However, although current adjuvants may cause severe local reactions and inflammations in the skin, no adjuvant has been approved for ID vaccination so far. Here, we report that topical application of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), a vitamin A derivative produced in the human body, augmented cutaneous influenza vaccination. The adjuvant effects were evaluated in a murine vaccination/challenge model by using A/California/07/2009 pandemic vaccine (09V) or a seasonal influenza vaccine (SIV). ATRA drove a Th2-biased immune response, as demonstrated by profoundly elevated IgG1 titer rather than IgG2 titer. Combining ATRA with a non-ablative fractional laser (NAFL), which represents a new category of vaccine adjuvant utilizing physical stimuli to induce self-immune stimulators, further enhanced the efficacy of influenza vaccines with a more balanced Th1/Th2 immune response. The dual adjuvant strengthened cross-reactive immune responses against both homogenous and heterogeneous influenza viral strains. Analysis of gene expression profile showed that ATRA/NAFL stimulated upregulation of cytosolic nucleic acid sensors and their downstream factors, leading to a synergistic elevation of type I interferon expression. Consistent with this finding, knocking out IRF3 or IRF7, two key downstream regulatory factors in most nucleic acid sensing pathways, resulted in a significant decrease in the adjuvant effect of ATRA/NAFL. Thus, our study demonstrates that the self molecule ATRA could boost cutaneous influenza vaccination either alone or ideally in combination with NAFL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People’s Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ji Wang
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Miao Cao
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiwen Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People’s Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shibo Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mei X. Wu
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Lu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences & Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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49
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Denzinger M, Link A, Kurz J, Krauss S, Thoma R, Schlensak C, Wendel HP, Krajewski S. Keratinocyte Growth Factor Modified Messenger RNA Accelerating Cell Proliferation and Migration of Keratinocytes. Nucleic Acid Ther 2018; 28:335-347. [PMID: 30376406 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2018.0737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) plays a central role in wound healing as it induces cell proliferation and motility. The use of growth factors such as KGF is therefore viewed as a promising approach in wound therapy, although effective application remains a major problem because of inactivation and the resulting short half-life of applied growth factors in wound beds. Therefore, the rational of this study was to develop and investigate an innovative strategy to improve wound healing using an in vitro-transcribed modified KGF messenger RNA (mRNA). After transfection of cells, we evaluated the effects of the produced KGF protein on cell migration and reepithelialization of keratinocytes using a scratch assay. The results demonstrate that KGF-mRNA-transfected cells exhibited a high KGF protein release that is sufficient to significantly improve reepithelialization in the performed scratch assays. Transfection with growth factor mRNA therefore seems to be a promising therapeutic strategy, especially for difficult wounds, as it leads to a temporary increase of growth factor expression in the treated wound area without interfering with the DNA of the nucleus, as seen in gene therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Denzinger
- 1 Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center, Tuebingen, Germany.,2 Department of Plastic Surgery, BG Trauma Center Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Antonia Link
- 1 Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Julia Kurz
- 1 Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Sabrina Krauss
- 2 Department of Plastic Surgery, BG Trauma Center Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Robert Thoma
- 1 Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Christian Schlensak
- 1 Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Hans Peter Wendel
- 1 Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Krajewski
- 1 Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Center, Tuebingen, Germany
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50
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Hochmann S, Mittermeir M, Santic R, Koszik F, Griessner L, Sonderegger AS, Hoffmann T, Russe E, Scheiblhofer S, Weiss R, Mandler M, Schneeberger A, Strunk D. Evaluation of modified Interferon alpha mRNA constructs for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer. Sci Rep 2018; 8:12954. [PMID: 30154486 PMCID: PMC6113332 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-31061-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Application of in vitro transcribed (IVT) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) is an increasingly popular strategy to transiently produce proteins as therapeutics in a tissue or organ of choice. Here, we focused on the skin and aimed to test if whole human skin tissue explant technology can be used to evaluate the expression efficacy of different IVT Interferon alpha (IFN-α) mRNA constructs in situ, after biolistic delivery. Skin explants were viable and intact for at least five days based on histologic analysis and TUNEL staining. Using GFP reporter mRNA formulations, we found mostly epidermal expression after biolistic delivery. Two out of five sequence-optimized IFN-α mRNA variants resulted in significantly improved IFN-α protein expression in human skin compared to native IFN-α mRNA transfection. IFN-α secretion analysis of the surrounding culture media confirmed these results. We provide a proof-of-concept that IFN-α mRNA delivery into intact human full thickness skin explants can be utilized to test mRNA sequence modifications ex vivo. This approach could be used to develop novel mRNA-based treatments of common epidermal skin conditions including non-melanoma skin cancer, where IFN-α protein therapy has previously shown a strong therapeutic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hochmann
- Cell Therapy Institute, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (Sci-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michaela Mittermeir
- Cell Therapy Institute, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (Sci-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Radmila Santic
- Accanis Biotech F&E GmbH & Co KG, Vienna Biocenter, Austria
| | - Frieder Koszik
- Accanis Biotech F&E GmbH & Co KG, Vienna Biocenter, Austria
| | | | - Alina Sarah Sonderegger
- Cell Therapy Institute, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (Sci-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Elisabeth Russe
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital Barmherzige Brueder, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Richard Weiss
- Department of Molecular Biology, Paris Lodron University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Markus Mandler
- Accanis Biotech F&E GmbH & Co KG, Vienna Biocenter, Austria
| | | | - Dirk Strunk
- Cell Therapy Institute, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria. .,Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (Sci-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
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