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Liu Z, Zhang W, Wang H, Shangguan P, Pan T, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Mao X, Liu Y, Zhang Q. Engineered CRISPR RNA improves the RNA cleavage efficiency of hfCas13X. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 39327223 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.15025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
As the most compact variant in the Cas13 family, CRISPR-Cas13X holds considerable promise for gene therapy applications. The development of high-fidelity Cas13X (hfCas13X) mutants has enhanced the safety profile for in vivo applications. However, a notable reduction in on-target cleavage efficiency accompanies the diminished collateral cleavage activity in hfCas13X. In this study, we obtained two engineered crRNA mutants that notably enhance the on-target cleavage efficiency of hfCas13X. Furthermore, we have identified a novel crRNA structure that consistently augments the on-target cleavage efficiency of hfCas13X across various cellular environments, without significant enhancement of its collateral activity. These findings collectively enrich the gene-editing toolkit, presenting a more effective hfCas13X system for future research and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Wenxia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Haili Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Pingping Shangguan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Tong Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Yimu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Xi Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Yingle Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, China
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2
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Nair PP, Keskar MP, Borghare PT, Dzoagbe HY, Kumar T. The New Era of Therapeutic Strategies for the Management of Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Narrative Review of the Pathomolecular Mechanism for Gene Therapies. Cureus 2024; 16:e66814. [PMID: 39280562 PMCID: PMC11393205 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.66814] [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: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa, or RP, is a group of inherited retinal degenerations involving progressive loss of photoreceptor cells- rods and cones- ultimately causing severe vision loss and blindness. RP, although a very common ailment, continues to be an incurable disease with little to be done medically. However, with the breakthroughs in gene therapy and stem cell transplantation in recent years, a new door has been opened to the treatment of RP. This narrative review summarizes the pathomolecular mechanisms of RP, focusing on the genetic and molecular abnormalities that lead to the process of retinal degeneration. In this section, we talk about the current theories of how RP develops, gene mutations, oxidative stress, and inflammation. We also delve into new therapeutic approaches such as gene therapy, stem cell transplantation and genome surgery, which are designed to either replace or repair the damaged photoreceptors to restore vision and ultimately enhance the life of the RP patient. Another topic covered is the obstacles and research frontiers of these revolutionary treatments. This article is intended to give a complete overview of the molecular processes of RP and the promising treatment strategies that could change the way this devastating disease is treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveena P Nair
- Otolaryngology, Mandsaur Institute of Ayurved Education and Research, Bhunyakhedi, IND
- Otolaryngology, Parul Institute of Ayurved, Parul University, Limda, IND
| | - Manjiri P Keskar
- Otolaryngology, Parul institute of Ayurved, Parul University, Limda, IND
| | - Pramod T Borghare
- Otolaryngology, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College Hospital and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Hellen Y Dzoagbe
- Anatomy, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Tanish Kumar
- Medicine, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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3
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Liu Y, Zong X, Cao W, Zhang W, Zhang N, Yang N. Gene Therapy for Retinitis Pigmentosa: Current Challenges and New Progress. Biomolecules 2024; 14:903. [PMID: 39199291 PMCID: PMC11352491 DOI: 10.3390/biom14080903] [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: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) poses a significant threat to eye health worldwide, with prevalence rates of 1 in 5000 worldwide. This genetically diverse retinopathy is characterized by the loss of photoreceptor cells and atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium. Despite the involvement of more than 3000 mutations across approximately 90 genes in its onset, finding an effective treatment has been challenging for a considerable time. However, advancements in scientific research, especially in gene therapy, are significantly expanding treatment options for this most prevalent inherited eye disease, with the discovery of new compounds, gene-editing techniques, and gene loci offering hope for more effective treatments. Gene therapy, a promising technology, utilizes viral or non-viral vectors to correct genetic defects by either replacing or silencing disease-causing genes, potentially leading to complete recovery. In this review, we primarily focus on the latest applications of gene editing research in RP. We delve into the most prevalent genes associated with RP and discuss advancements in genome-editing strategies currently employed to correct various disease-causing mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ningzhi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road #238, Wuhan 430060, China; (Y.L.); (X.Z.); (W.C.); (W.Z.)
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Jiefang Road #238, Wuhan 430060, China; (Y.L.); (X.Z.); (W.C.); (W.Z.)
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Teng M, Xia ZJ, Lo N, Daud K, He HH. Assembling the RNA therapeutics toolbox. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:110-128. [PMID: 38680684 PMCID: PMC11046573 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0062] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
From the approval of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines to the 2023 Nobel Prize awarded for nucleoside base modifications, RNA therapeutics have entered the spotlight and are transforming drug development. While the term "RNA therapeutics" has been used in various contexts, this review focuses on treatments that utilize RNA as a component or target RNA for therapeutic effects. We summarize the latest advances in RNA-targeting tools and RNA-based technologies, including but not limited to mRNA, antisense oligos, siRNAs, small molecules and RNA editors. We focus on the mechanisms of current FDA-approved therapeutics but also provide a discussion on the upcoming workforces. The clinical utility of RNA-based therapeutics is enabled not only by the advances in RNA technologies but in conjunction with the significant improvements in chemical modifications and delivery platforms, which are also briefly discussed in the review. We summarize the latest RNA therapeutics based on their mechanisms and therapeutic effects, which include expressing proteins for vaccination and protein replacement therapies, degrading deleterious RNA, modulating transcription and translation efficiency, targeting noncoding RNAs, binding and modulating protein activity and editing RNA sequences and modifications. This review emphasizes the concept of an RNA therapeutic toolbox, pinpointing the readers to all the tools available for their desired research and clinical goals. As the field advances, the catalog of RNA therapeutic tools continues to grow, further allowing researchers to combine appropriate RNA technologies with suitable chemical modifications and delivery platforms to develop therapeutics tailored to their specific clinical challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Teng
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ziting Judy Xia
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nicholas Lo
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kashif Daud
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Housheng Hansen He
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Sun X, Liang C, Chen Y, Cui T, Han J, Dai M, Zhang Y, Zhou Q, Li W. Knockout and Replacement Gene Surgery to Treat Rhodopsin-Mediated Autosomal Dominant Retinitis Pigmentosa. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:151-162. [PMID: 38368562 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the rhodopsin (RHO) gene are the predominant causes of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP). Given the diverse gain-of-function mutations, therapeutic strategies targeting specific sequences face significant challenges. Here, we provide a universal approach to conquer this problem: we have devised a CRISPR-Cas12i-based, mutation-independent gene knockout and replacement compound therapy carried by a dual AAV2/8 system. In this study, we successfully delayed the progression of retinal degeneration in the classic mouse disease model RhoP23H, and also RhoP347S, a new native mouse mutation model we developed. Our research expands the horizon of potential options for future treatments of RHO-mediated adRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - Chen Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - Yangcan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tongtong Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jiabao Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - Moyu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; and
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
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Vingolo EM, Mascolo S, Miccichè F, Manco G. Retinitis Pigmentosa: From Pathomolecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:189. [PMID: 38276069 PMCID: PMC10819364 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa is an inherited disease, in which mutations in different types of genes lead to the death of photoreceptors and the loss of visual function. Although retinitis pigmentosa is the most common type of inherited retinal dystrophy, a clear line of therapy has not yet been defined. In this review, we will focus on the therapeutic aspect and attempt to define the advantages and disadvantages of the protocols of different therapies. The role of some therapies, such as antioxidant agents or gene therapy, has been established for years now. Many clinical trials on different genes and mutations causing RP have been conducted, and the approval of voretigene nepavorec by the FDA has been an important step forward. Nonetheless, even if gene therapy is the most promising type of treatment for these patients, other innovative strategies, such as stem cell transplantation or hyperbaric oxygen therapy, have been shown to be safe and improve visual quality during clinical trials. The treatment of this disease remains a challenge, to which we hope to find a solution as soon as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simona Mascolo
- Sense Organs Department, UOSD of Ophtalmology, University la Sapienza of Rome, Polo Pontino-Ospedale A. Fiorini, 4019 Terracina, Italy; (E.M.V.); (F.M.); (G.M.)
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Shi P, Wu X. Programmable RNA targeting with CRISPR-Cas13. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-9. [PMID: 38764173 PMCID: PMC11110701 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2024.2351657] [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] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas13 system has enabled precise engineering of endogenous RNAs, significantly advancing our understanding of RNA regulation and the development of RNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic applications. This review aims to provide a summary of Cas13-based RNA targeting tools and applications, discuss limitations and challenges of existing tools and suggest potential directions for further development of the RNA targeting system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiguo Shi
- Department of Medicine and Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xuebing Wu
- Department of Medicine and Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Bremond-Gignac D, Robert MP, Daruich A. Update on gene therapies in pediatric ophthalmology. Arch Pediatr 2023; 30:8S41-8S45. [PMID: 38043982 DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(23)00226-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Rare eye diseases encompass a broad spectrum of genetic anomalies with or without additional extraocular manifestations. Genetic eye disorders in pediatric patients often lead to severe visual impairments. Therefore, a challenge of gene therapy is to provide better vision to these affected children. In recent years, inherited retinal diseases, inherited optic neuropathies, and corneal dystrophies have dominated discussions to establish gene and cell replacement therapies for these diseases. Gene therapy involves the transfer of genetic material to remove, replace, repair, or introduce a gene, or to overexpress a protein, whose activity would have a therapeutic impact. For the majority of anterior segment diseases, these studies are still emerging at a preclinical stage; however, for inherited retinal disorders, translation has been reached, leading to the introduction of the first gene therapies into clinical practice. In the past decade, the first gene therapy for biallelic RPE65-mediated inherited retinal dystrophy has been developed and the FDA and EMA both approved ocular gene therapy. Other promising approaches by intravitreal injection have been investigated such as in CEP290-Leber congenital amaurosis. Various techniques of gene therapies include gene supplementation, CRISPR-based genome editing, as well as RNA modulation and optogenetics. Optogenetic therapies deliver light-activated ion channels to surviving retinal cell types in order to restore photosensitivity. Beyond retinal function, ataluren, a nonsense mutation suppression therapy, enables ribosomal read-through of mRNA containing premature termination codons, resulting in the production of a full-length protein. An ophthalmic formulation was recently evaluated with the aim of repairing corneal damage, pending new clinical studies. However, various congenital disorders exhibit severe developmental defects or cell loss at birth, limiting the potential for viral gene therapy. Therefore mutation-independent strategies seem promising for maintaining the survival of photoreceptors or for restoring visual function. Restoring vision in children with gene therapy continues to be a challenge in ophthalmology. © 2023 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS on behalf of French Society of Pediatrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Bremond-Gignac
- Département d'Ophthalmologie, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants malades, AP-HP, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; INSERM, UMRS1138, Equipe 17 Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France.
| | - Matthieu P Robert
- Département d'Ophthalmologie, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants malades, AP-HP, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Centre Borelli, UMR 9010 CNRS - SSA - ENS Paris Saclay - Paris University
| | - Alejandra Daruich
- Département d'Ophthalmologie, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants malades, AP-HP, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; INSERM, UMRS1138, Equipe 17 Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
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