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Lee NK, Chang JW. Manufacturing Cell and Gene Therapies: Challenges in Clinical Translation. Ann Lab Med 2024; 44:314-323. [PMID: 38361427 PMCID: PMC10961620 DOI: 10.3343/alm.2023.0382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The safety and efficacy of both cell and gene therapies have been demonstrated in numerous preclinical and clinical trials. Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy, which leverages the technologies of both cell and gene therapies, has also shown great promise for treating various cancers. Advancements in pertinent fields have also highlighted challenges faced while manufacturing cell and gene therapy products. Potential problems and obstacles must be addressed to ease the clinical translation of individual therapies. Literature reviews of representative cell-based, gene-based, and cell-based gene therapies with regard to their general manufacturing processes, the challenges faced during manufacturing, and QC specifications are limited. We review the general manufacturing processes of cell and gene therapies, including those involving mesenchymal stem cells, viral vectors, and CAR-T cells. The complexities associated with the manufacturing processes and subsequent QC/validation processes may present challenges that could impede the clinical progression of the products. This article addresses these potential challenges. Further, we discuss the use of the manufacturing model and its impact on cell and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Kyung Lee
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea
- Cell and Gene Therapy Institute (CGTI), Research Institute for Future Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Wook Chang
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea
- Cell and Gene Therapy Institute (CGTI), Research Institute for Future Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
- Cell and Gene Therapy Institute, ENCell Co. Ltd., Seoul, Korea
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2
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Sun L, Rao S, Kerim K, Lu J, Li H, Zhao S, Shen P, Sun W. A chemically adjustable BMP6-IL6 axis in mesenchymal stem cells drives acute myeloid leukemia cell differentiation. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 225:116262. [PMID: 38705535 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Chemotherapy alone or in combination with allogeneic stem cell transplantation has been the standard of care for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) for decades. Leukemia relapse with limited treatment options remains the main cause of treatment failure. Therefore, an effective and safe approach to improve treatment outcomes is urgently needed for most AML patients. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been reported to efficiently induce apoptosis and shape the fate of acute myeloid leukemia cells. Here, we identified LG190155 as a potent compound that enhances the antileukemia efficiency of MSCs. Pretreatment of MSCs with LG190155 significantly provoked differentiation in both AML patient-derived primary leukemia cells and AML cell lines and reduced the tumor burden in the AML mouse model. Using the quantitative proteomic technique, we discovered a pivotal mechanism that mediates AML cell differentiation, in which autocrine bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP6) in MSCs boosted IL-6 secretion and further acted on leukemic cells to trigger differentiation. Furthermore, the activity of the BMP6-IL6 axis was dramatically enhanced by activating vitamin D receptor (VDR) in MSCs. Our data illustrated an effective preactivated approach to reinforcing the antileukemia effect of MSCs, which could serve as an effective therapeutic strategy for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luchen Sun
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Shangrui Rao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Kamran Kerim
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jianhua Lu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Hongzheng Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Shengsheng Zhao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Pingping Shen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China; State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Shenzhen Research Institute of NanJing University, Shenzhen 518000, China.
| | - Weijian Sun
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
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3
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Som M, Gikanga B, Kanapuram V, Yadav S. Drug product Formulation and Fill/Finish Manufacturing Process Considerations for AAV-Based Genomic Medicines. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:1711-1725. [PMID: 38570073 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2024.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have become the delivery medium of choice for a variety of genomic medicine applications i.e., gene therapy, gene editing/regulation, and ex-vivo cell therapy. AAVs are protein-DNA complexes which have unique stability characteristics that are susceptible to various stress exposure conditions commonly seen in the drug product (DP) life cycle. This review takes a comprehensive look at AAV DP formulation and process development considerations that could impact critical quality attributes (CQAs) during manufacturing, packaging, shipping, and clinical use. Additional aspects related to AAV development reviewed herein are: (1) Different AAV serotypes with unique protein sequences and charge characteristics potentially leading to discrete stability profiles; (2) Manufacturing process challenges and optimization efforts to improve yield, recovery and purity especially during early development activities; and (3) Defining and identifying CQAs with analytical methods which are constantly evolving and present unique characterization challenges for AAV-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhura Som
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States.
| | - Benson Gikanga
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States
| | - Varna Kanapuram
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States
| | - Sandeep Yadav
- Sangamo Therapeutics, 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA 94005, United States.
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Manteghi M, Can O, Kocagoz T. Peptosome: A New Efficient Transfection Tool as an Alternative to Liposome. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6918. [PMID: 39000028 PMCID: PMC11241524 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136918] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is one of the most promising techniques for treating genetic diseases and cancer. The current most important problem in gene therapy is gene delivery. Viral and non-viral vectors like liposomes, used for gene delivery, have many limitations. We have developed new hybrid peptides by combining cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) with the DNA-binding domain of the human histone H4 protein. These small peptides bind to DNA molecules through their histone domain, leaving the CPP part free and available for binding and penetration into cells, forming complexes that we named "peptosomes". We evaluated the transfection efficiency of several hybrid peptides by delivering a plasmid carrying the green fluorescent protein gene and following its expression by fluorescent microscopy. Among several hybrid peptides, TM3 achieved a gene delivery efficiency of 76%, compared to 52% for Lipofectamine 2000. TM3 peptosomes may become important gene delivery tools with several advantages over current gene delivery agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Manteghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Health Sciences, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul 34752, Turkey;
| | - Ozge Can
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul 34752, Turkey;
| | - Tanil Kocagoz
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Institute of Health Sciences, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul 34752, Turkey;
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul 34752, Turkey
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5
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Lin YC, Lu M, Cai W, Hu WS. Comparative transcriptomic and proteomic kinetic analysis of adeno-associated virus production systems. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:385. [PMID: 38896252 PMCID: PMC11186941 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13203-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is a major gene delivery vehicle. We have constructed a stable rAAV producer cell line by integrating essential rAAV genome, viral and helper genes into the genome of HEK293 cell under the control of inducible promoters. Upon induction, the cell line produces transducing rAAV. To gain insight into enhancing rAAV productivity and vector quality, we performed a comparative transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of our synthetic cell line GX2 and two wild-type AAV (wtAAV) production systems, one by virus co-infection and the other by multi-plasmid transfection. The three systems had different kinetics in viral component synthesis but generated comparable copies of AAV genomes; however, the capsid titer of GX2 was an order of magnitude lower compared to those two wtAAV systems, indicating that its capsid production may be insufficient. The genome packaging efficiency was also lower in GX2 despite it produced higher levels of Rep52 proteins than either wtAAV systems, suggesting that Rep52 protein expression may not limit genome packaging. In the two wtAAV systems, VP were the most abundant AAV proteins and their levels continued to increase, while GX2 had high level of wasteful cargo gene expression. Furthermore, upregulated inflammation, innate immune responses, and MAPK signaling, as well as downregulated mitochondrial functions, were commonly observed in either rAAV or wtAAV systems. Overall, this comparative multi-omics study provided rich insights into host cell and viral factors that are potential targets for genetic and process intervention to enhance the productivity of synthetic rAAV producer cell lines. KEY POINTS: • wtAAV infection was more efficient in producing full viral particles than the synthetic cell GX2. • Capsid protein synthesis, genome replication, and packaging may limit rAAV production in GX2. • wtAAV infection and rAAV production in GX2 elicited similar host cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chieh Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 421 Washington Avenue S.E, Minneapolis, MN, 55455-0132, USA
| | - Min Lu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 421 Washington Avenue S.E, Minneapolis, MN, 55455-0132, USA
| | - Wen Cai
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 421 Washington Avenue S.E, Minneapolis, MN, 55455-0132, USA
| | - Wei-Shou Hu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 421 Washington Avenue S.E, Minneapolis, MN, 55455-0132, USA.
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Leach M, Cox C, Wickramasinghe SR, Chwatko M, Bhattacharyya D. Role of Microfiltration Membrane Morphology on Nanoparticle Purification to Enhance Downstream Purification of Viral Vectors. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:3932-3941. [PMID: 38822810 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.4c00272] [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: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
In the rapidly advancing realms of gene therapy and biotechnology, the efficient purification of viral vectors is pivotal for ensuring the safety and efficacy of gene therapies. This study focuses on optimizing membrane selection for viral vector purification by evaluating key properties, including porosity, thickness, pore structure, and hydrophilicity. Notably, we employed adeno-associated virus (AAV)-sized nanoparticles (20 nm), 200 nm particles, and bovine serum albumin (BSA) to model viral vector harvesting. Experimental data from constant pressure normal flow filtration (NFF) at 1 and 2 bar using four commercial flat sheet membranes revealed distinct fouling behaviors. Symmetric membranes predominantly showed internal and external pore blockage, while asymmetric membranes formed a cake layer on the surface. Hydrophilicity exhibited a positive correlation with recovery, demonstrating an enhanced recovery with increased hydrophilicity. Membranes with higher porosity and interpore connectivity showcased superior throughput, reduced operating time, and increased recovery. Asymmetric polyether sulfone (PES) membranes emerged as the optimal choice, achieving ∼100% recovery of AAV-sized particles, an ∼44% reduction in model cell debris (200 nm particles), an ∼35% decrease in BSA, and the fastest operating time of all membranes tested. This systematic investigation into fouling behaviors and membrane properties not only informs optimal conditions for viral vector recovery but also lays the groundwork for advancing membrane-based strategies in bioprocessing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Leach
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
| | - Catherine Cox
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
| | | | - Malgorzata Chwatko
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
| | - Dibakar Bhattacharyya
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506, United States
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7
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Williams-Fegredo T, Davies L, Knevelman C, Mitrophanous K, Miskin J, Rafiq QA. Development of novel lipoplex formulation methodologies to improve large-scale transient transfection for lentiviral vector manufacture. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101260. [PMID: 38745895 PMCID: PMC11092396 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Large-scale transient transfection has advanced significantly over the last 20 years, enabling the effective production of a diverse range of biopharmaceutical products, including viral vectors. However, a number of challenges specifically related to transfection reagent stability and transfection complex preparation times remain. New developments and improved transfection technologies are required to ensure that transient gene expression-based bioprocesses can meet the growing demand for viral vectors. In this paper, we demonstrate that the growth of cationic lipid-based liposomes, an essential step in many cationic lipid-based transfection processes, can be controlled through adoption of low pH (pH 6.40 to pH 6.75) and in low salt concentration (0.2× PBS) formulations, facilitating improved control over the nanoparticle growth kinetics and enhancing particle stability. Such complexes retain the ability to facilitate efficient transfection for prolonged periods compared with standard preparation methodologies. These findings have significant industrial applications for the large-scale manufacture of lentiviral vectors for two principal reasons. First, the alternative preparation strategy enables longer liposome incubation times to be used, facilitating effective control in a good manufacturing practices setting. Second, the improvement in particle stability facilitates the setting of wider process operating ranges, which will significantly improve process robustness and maximise batch-to-batch control and product consistency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Williams-Fegredo
- Oxford Biomedica (UK) Limited, Windrush Court, Transport Way, Oxford OX4 6LT, UK
- Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Lee Davies
- Oxford Biomedica (UK) Limited, Windrush Court, Transport Way, Oxford OX4 6LT, UK
| | - Carol Knevelman
- Oxford Biomedica (UK) Limited, Windrush Court, Transport Way, Oxford OX4 6LT, UK
| | | | - James Miskin
- Oxford Biomedica (UK) Limited, Windrush Court, Transport Way, Oxford OX4 6LT, UK
| | - Qasim A. Rafiq
- Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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8
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Schimek A, Ng JK, Basbas I, Martin F, Xin D, Saleh D, Hubbuch J. An HPLC-SEC-based rapid quantification method for vesicular stomatitis virus particles to facilitate process development. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101252. [PMID: 38774583 PMCID: PMC11107205 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101252] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Virus particle (VP) quantification plays a pivotal role in the development of production processes of VPs for virus-based therapies. The yield based on total VP count serves as a process performance indicator for evaluating process efficiency and consistency. Here, a label-free particle quantification method for enveloped VPs was developed, with potential applications in oncolytic virotherapy, vaccine development, and gene therapy. The method comprises size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) separation using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) instruments. Ultraviolet (UV) was used for particle quantification and multi-angle light scattering (MALS) for particle characterization. Consistent recoveries of over 97% in the SEC were achieved upon mobile phase screenings and addition of bovine serum albumin (BSA) as sample stabilizer. A calibration curve was generated, and the method's performance and applicability to in-process samples were characterized. The assay's repeatability variation was <1% and its intermediate precision variation was <3%. The linear range of the method spans from 7.08 × 108 to 1.72 × 1011 VP/mL, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 7.72 × 107 VP/mL and a lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) of 4.20 × 108 VP/mL. The method, characterized by its high precision, requires minimal hands-on time and provides same-day results, making it efficient for process development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Schimek
- ViraTherapeutics GmbH, Bundesstraße 27, 6063 Rum, Austria
| | - Judy K.M. Ng
- ViraTherapeutics GmbH, Bundesstraße 27, 6063 Rum, Austria
| | - Ioannes Basbas
- ViraTherapeutics GmbH, Bundesstraße 27, 6063 Rum, Austria
| | - Fabian Martin
- ViraTherapeutics GmbH, Bundesstraße 27, 6063 Rum, Austria
| | - Dongyue Xin
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc, 900 Ridgebury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA
| | - David Saleh
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Birkendorfer Str. 65, 88397 Biberach, Germany
| | - Jürgen Hubbuch
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute of Process Engineering in Life Sciences, Section IV Biomolecular Separation Engineering, Fritz-Haber-Weg 2, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
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Rodriguez A, Jalimarada-Shivakumar S, Banazadeh A, Afroz S, Ali A, Deng K, Huang L, Galibert L, Singh R, Zhou C. Insight Into the Degradation Pathways of an AAV9. J Pharm Sci 2024:S0022-3549(24)00218-1. [PMID: 38876368 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2024.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
The use of recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors is a popular choice for in vivo gene therapy, with hundreds of ongoing clinical trials targeting various genetic diseases. However, due to limited material availability and the complexity of AAV structure, there is a critical lack of comprehensive studies on AAV degradation pathways. In this study, we intended to elucidate the degradation pathways for a model AAV9 with GFP as the transgene under relevant stressed conditions. We assessed a diverse set of critical quality attributes and examined the overall impact of various stresses on transgene expression. This assessment revealed various degradation mechanisms of AAV9 and demonstrated the potential risk of a base formulation in causing AAV9 instability and potency loss under thermal stress at 25 and 40 °C while maintaining stability under freeze-thaw stress, interfacial stress due to membrane filtration, and short-term storage of up to 4 weeks at 5 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonela Rodriguez
- Biologics Drug Product Development, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | | | - Ali Banazadeh
- Analytical Development, Science & Technology Biologics, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | - Sharmin Afroz
- Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | - Amr Ali
- Analytical Development, Science & Technology Biologics, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | - Kangwen Deng
- Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | - Lili Huang
- Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | - Lionel Galibert
- Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | - Rajeeva Singh
- Biologics Drug Product Development, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States
| | - Chen Zhou
- Biologics Drug Product Development, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States.
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Jogdeo CM, Siddhanta K, Das A, Ding L, Panja S, Kumari N, Oupický D. Beyond Lipids: Exploring Advances in Polymeric Gene Delivery in the Lipid Nanoparticles Era. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2404608. [PMID: 38842816 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202404608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The recent success of gene therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of effective and safe delivery systems. Complementing lipid-based delivery systems, polymers present a promising alternative for gene delivery. Significant advances have been made in the recent past, with multiple clinical trials progressing beyond phase I and several companies actively working on polymeric delivery systems which provides assurance that polymeric carriers can soon achieve clinical translation. The massive advantage of structural tunability and vast chemical space of polymers is being actively leveraged to mitigate shortcomings of traditional polycationic polymers and improve the translatability of delivery systems. Tailored polymeric approaches for diverse nucleic acids and for specific subcellular targets are now being designed to improve therapeutic efficacy. This review describes the recent advances in polymer design for improved gene delivery by polyplexes and covalent polymer-nucleic acid conjugates. The review also offers a brief note on novel computational techniques for improved polymer design. The review concludes with an overview of the current state of polymeric gene therapies in the clinic as well as future directions on their translation to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinmay M Jogdeo
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Kasturi Siddhanta
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Ashish Das
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Ling Ding
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Sudipta Panja
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Neha Kumari
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - David Oupický
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
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Li M, Liu Z, Wang D, Ye J, Shi Z, Pan C, Zhang Q, Ju R, Zheng Y, Liu Y. Intraocular mRNA delivery with endogenous MmPEG10-based virus-like particles. Exp Eye Res 2024; 243:109899. [PMID: 38636802 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLP) are a promising tool for intracellular gene delivery, yet their potential in ocular gene therapy remains underexplored. In this study, we bridged this knowledge gap by demonstrating the successful generation and application of vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSVG)-pseudotyped mouse PEG10 (MmPEG10)-VLP for intraocular mRNA delivery. Our findings revealed that PEG10-VLP can efficiently deliver GFP mRNA to adult retinal pigment epithelial cell line-19 (ARPE-19) cells, leading to transient expression. Moreover, we showed that MmPEG10-VLP can transfer SMAD7 to inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in RPE cells effectively. In vivo experiments further substantiated the potential of these vectors, as subretinal delivery into adult mice resulted in efficient transduction of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and GFP reporter gene expression without significant immune response. However, intravitreal injection did not yield efficient ocular expression. We also evaluated the transduction characteristics of MmPEG10-VLP following intracameral delivery, revealing transient GFP protein expression in corneal endothelial cells without significant immunotoxicities. In summary, our study established that VSVG pseudotyped MmPEG10-based VLP can transduce mitotically inactive RPE cells and corneal endothelial cells in vivo without triggering an inflammatory response, underscoring their potential utility in ocular gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengke Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Ocular Development and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
| | - Zhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Dongliang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jinguo Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Zhuoxing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Caineng Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Qikai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Rong Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yingfeng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Ocular Development and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China.
| | - Yizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Ocular Development and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
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12
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Wendlandt T, Britz B, Kleinow T, Hipp K, Eber FJ, Wege C. Getting Hold of the Tobamovirus Particle-Why and How? Purification Routes over Time and a New Customizable Approach. Viruses 2024; 16:884. [PMID: 38932176 PMCID: PMC11209083 DOI: 10.3390/v16060884] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This article develops a multi-perspective view on motivations and methods for tobamovirus purification through the ages and presents a novel, efficient, easy-to-use approach that can be well-adapted to different species of native and functionalized virions. We survey the various driving forces prompting researchers to enrich tobamoviruses, from the search for the causative agents of mosaic diseases in plants to their increasing recognition as versatile nanocarriers in biomedical and engineering applications. The best practices and rarely applied options for the serial processing steps required for successful isolation of tobamoviruses are then reviewed. Adaptations for distinct particle species, pitfalls, and 'forgotten' or underrepresented technologies are considered as well. The article is topped off with our own development of a method for virion preparation, rooted in historical protocols. It combines selective re-solubilization of polyethylene glycol (PEG) virion raw precipitates with density step gradient centrifugation in biocompatible iodixanol formulations, yielding ready-to-use particle suspensions. This newly established protocol and some considerations for perhaps worthwhile further developments could serve as putative stepping stones towards preparation procedures appropriate for routine practical uses of these multivalent soft-matter nanorods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Wendlandt
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems, Molecular and Synthetic Plant Virology, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (T.W.); (B.B.); (T.K.)
| | - Beate Britz
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems, Molecular and Synthetic Plant Virology, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (T.W.); (B.B.); (T.K.)
| | - Tatjana Kleinow
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems, Molecular and Synthetic Plant Virology, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (T.W.); (B.B.); (T.K.)
| | - Katharina Hipp
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Max-Planck-Ring 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
| | - Fabian J. Eber
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, Badstr. 24, 77652 Offenburg, Germany;
| | - Christina Wege
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems, Molecular and Synthetic Plant Virology, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany; (T.W.); (B.B.); (T.K.)
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13
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Kish WS, Lightholder J, Zeković T, Berrill A, Roach M, Wellborn WB, Vorst E. Removal of empty capsids from high-dose adeno-associated virus 9 gene therapies. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024. [PMID: 38807330 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28737] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus, serotype 9 (rAAV9) has shown promise as a gene therapy vector for muscle and central nervous diseases. High-dose requirements of these therapies present critical safety considerations and biomanufacturing challenges. Notably, the reduction of empty capsids (ECs), which lack therapeutic transgene, from rAAV9 products is critical to maximize efficacy. Removal of rAAV ECs from full capsids is a major downstream challenge because of their highly similar biophysical characteristics. Ultracentrifugation (UC) reduces ECs but is laborious and difficult to scale. In this paper, to replace a poorly scalable UC process, we developed an anion exchange (AEX) chromatography for rAAV9 EC reduction from full capsids. AEX load preparation by dilution incurred major product loss. The addition of histidine and surfactants to dilution buffers increased yield and reduced aggregation. Elution salts were screened and sodium acetate was found to maximize yield and EC reduction. The most promising load dilution buffer and elution salt were used in combination to form an optimized AEX method. The process reduced ECs three-fold, demonstrated robustness to a broad range of EC load challenges, and was scaled for large-scale manufacture. Compared to UC, the AEX method simplified scale-up, reduced ECs to comparable levels (20%), afforded similar purity and product quality, and increased yield by 14%.
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Affiliation(s)
- William S Kish
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Pfizer Inc., Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
| | - John Lightholder
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Pfizer Inc., Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tamara Zeković
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Pfizer Inc., Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alex Berrill
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Pfizer Inc., Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
| | - Matthew Roach
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Pfizer Inc., Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
| | - William B Wellborn
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Pfizer Inc., Chesterfield, Missouri, USA
| | - Eric Vorst
- Gene Therapy Process Development, Pfizer Inc., Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
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14
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Jarand C, Baker K, Petroff M, Jin M, Reed WF. DNA Released by Adeno-Associated Virus Strongly Alters Capsid Aggregation Kinetics in a Physiological Solution. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:2890-2901. [PMID: 38683736 PMCID: PMC11094734 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
While adeno-associated virus is a leading vector for gene therapy, significant gaps remain in understanding AAV degradation and stability. In this work, we study the degradation of an engineered AAV serotype at physiological pH and ionic strength. Viral particles of varying fractions of encapsulated DNA were incubated between 30 and 60 °C, with changes in molecular weight measured by changes in total light scattering intensity at 90° over time. Mostly full vectors demonstrated a rapid decrease in molecular weight corresponding to the release of capsid DNA, followed by slow aggregation. In contrast, empty vectors demonstrated immediate, rapid colloid-type aggregation. Mixtures of full and empty capsids showed a pronounced decrease in initial aggregation that cannot be explained by a linear superposition of empty and full degradation scattering signatures, indicating interactions between capsids and ejected DNA that influenced aggregation mechanisms. This demonstrates key interactions between AAV capsids and their cargo that influence capsid degradation, aggregation, and DNA release mechanisms in a physiological solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis
W. Jarand
- Department
of Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118, United States
| | - Karen Baker
- Downstream
and Drug Product Process Development, Spark
Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19143, United States
| | - Matthew Petroff
- Downstream
and Drug Product Process Development, Spark
Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19143, United States
| | - Mi Jin
- Downstream
and Drug Product Process Development, Spark
Therapeutics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19143, United States
| | - Wayne F. Reed
- Department
of Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118, United States
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15
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Hetzler Z, Marinakos SM, Lott N, Mohammad N, Lass-Napiorkowska A, Kolbe J, Turrentine L, Fields D, Overton L, Marie H, Hucknall A, Rammo O, George H, Wei Q. Adeno-associated virus genome quantification with amplification-free CRISPR-Cas12a. Gene Ther 2024; 31:304-313. [PMID: 38528117 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-024-00449-x] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Efficient manufacturing of recombinant Adeno-Associated Viral (rAAV) vectors to meet rising clinical demand remains a major hurdle. One of the most significant challenges is the generation of large amounts of empty capsids without the therapeutic genome. There is no standardized analytical method to accurately quantify the viral genes, and subsequently the empty-to-full ratio, making the manufacturing challenges even more complex. We propose the use of CRISPR diagnostics (CRISPR-Dx) as a robust and rapid approach to determine AAV genome titers. We designed and developed the CRISPR-AAV Evaluation (CRAAVE) assay to maximize sensitivity, minimize time-to-result, and provide a potentially universal design for quantifying multiple transgene constructs encapsidated within different AAV serotypes. We also demonstrate an on-chip CRAAVE assay with lyophilized reagents to minimize end user assay input. The CRAAVE assay was able to detect AAV titers as low as 7e7 vg/mL with high precision (<3% error) in quantifying unknown AAV titers when compared with conventional quantitative PCR (qPCR) method. The assay only requires 30 min of assay time, shortening the analytical workflow drastically. Our results suggest CRISPR-Dx could be a promising tool for efficient rAAV genome titer quantification and has the potential to revolutionize biomanufacturing process analytical technology (PAT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach Hetzler
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | | | - Noah Lott
- Biomanufacturing, Training, and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Noor Mohammad
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | | | - Jenna Kolbe
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Lauren Turrentine
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Delaney Fields
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Laurie Overton
- Biomanufacturing, Training, and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Qingshan Wei
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA.
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16
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Ma J, Tian Z, Shi Q, Dong X, Sun Y. Affinity chromatography for virus-like particle manufacturing: Challenges, solutions, and perspectives. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1721:464851. [PMID: 38574547 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.464851] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The increasing medical application of virus-like particles (VLPs), notably vaccines and viral vectors, has increased the demand for commercial VLP production. However, VLP manufacturing has not yet reached the efficiency level achieved for recombinant protein therapeutics, especially in downstream processing. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges associated with affinity chromatography for VLP purification with respect to the diversity and complexity of VLPs and the associated upstream and downstream processes. The use of engineered affinity ligands and matrices for affinity chromatography is first discussed. Although several representative affinity ligands are currently available for VLP purification, most of them have difficulty in balancing ligand universality, ligand selectivity and mild operation conditions. Then, phage display technology and computer-assisted design are discussed as efficient methods for the rapid discovery of high-affinity peptide ligands. Finally, the VLP purification by affinity chromatography is analyzed. The process is significantly influenced by virus size and variation, ligand type and chromatographic mode. To address the updated regulatory requirements and epidemic outbreaks, technical innovations in affinity chromatography and process intensification and standardization in VLP purification should be promoted to achieve rapid process development and highly efficient VLP manufacturing, and emphasis is given to the discovery of universal ligands, applications of gigaporous matrices and platform technology. It is expected that the information in this review can provide a better understanding of the affinity chromatography methods available for VLP purification and offer useful guidance for the development of affinity chromatography for VLP manufacturing in the decades to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Zengquan Tian
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qinghong Shi
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Dong
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering and Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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17
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Thomas SP, Spinelli MM, Rghei AD, Lopes JA, Zielinska N, McLeod BM, Pei Y, Zhang W, Thebaud B, Karimi K, Wootton SK. Analysis of the impact of pluronic acid on the thermal stability and infectivity of AAV6.2FF. BMC Biotechnol 2024; 24:22. [PMID: 38664752 PMCID: PMC11045451 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-024-00853-6] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The advancement of AAV vectors into clinical testing has accelerated rapidly over the past two decades. While many of the AAV vectors being utilized in clinical trials are derived from natural serotypes, engineered serotypes are progressing toward clinical translation due to their enhanced tissue tropism and immune evasive properties. However, novel AAV vectors require formulation and stability testing to determine optimal storage conditions prior to their use in a clinical setting. RESULTS Here, we evaluated the thermal stability of AAV6.2FF, a rationally engineered capsid with strong tropism for lung and muscle, in two different buffer formulations; phosphate buffered saline (PBS), or PBS supplemented with 0.001% non-ionic surfactant Pluronic F68 (PF-68). Aliquots of AAV6.2FF vector encoding the firefly luciferase reporter gene (AAV6.2FF-ffLuc) were incubated at temperatures ranging from -20°C to 55°C for varying periods of time and the impact on infectivity and particle integrity evaluated. Additionally, the impact of several rounds of freeze-thaw treatments on the infectivity of AAV6.2FF was investigated. Vector infectivity was measured by quantifying firefly luciferase expression in HEK 293 cells and AAV particle integrity was measured by qPCR quantification of encapsidated viral DNA. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that formulating AAV6.2FF in PBS containing 0.001% PF-68 leads to increased stability and particle integrity at temperatures between -20℃ to 21℃ and protection against the destructive effects of freeze-thaw. Finally, AAV6.2FF-GFP formulated in PBS supplemented with 0.001% PF-68 displayed higher transduction efficiency in vivo in murine lung epithelial cells following intranasal administration than vector buffered in PBS alone further demonstrating the beneficial properties of PF-68.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia P Thomas
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Marcus M Spinelli
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Amira D Rghei
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Jordyn A Lopes
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Nicole Zielinska
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Benjamin M McLeod
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Yanlong Pei
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Bernard Thebaud
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | - Khalil Karimi
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Sarah K Wootton
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
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18
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Duran T, Naik S, Sharifi L, DiLuzio WR, Chanda A, Chaudhuri B. Studying the ssDNA loaded adeno-associated virus aggregation using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations. Int J Pharm 2024; 655:123985. [PMID: 38484860 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.123985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The aggregation of adeno-associated viral (AAV) capsids in an aqueous environment was investigated via coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CG-MD) simulations. The primary driving force and mechanism of the aggregation were investigated with or without single-strand DNA (ssDNA) loaded at various process temperatures. Capsid aggregation appeared to involve multiple residue interactions (i.e., hydrophobic, polar and charged residues) leading to complex protein aggregation. In addition, two aggregation mechanisms (i.e., the fivefold face-to-face contact and the edge-to-edge contact) were identified from this study. The ssDNA with its asymmetric structure could be the reason for destabilizing protein subunits and enhancing the interaction between the charged residues, and further result in the non-reversible face-to-face contact. At higher temperature, the capsid structure was found to be unstable with the significant size expansion of the loaded ssDNA which could be attributed to reduced number of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, the increased conformational deviations of protein subunits and the higher residue fluctuations. The CG-MD model was further validated with previous experimental and simulation data, including the full capsid size measurement and the capsid internal pressure. Thus, a good understanding of AAV capsid aggregation, instability and the role of ssDNA were revealed by applying the developed computational model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibo Duran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Shivangi Naik
- Technical Operations, Sarepta Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Leila Sharifi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Willow R DiLuzio
- Technical Operations, Sarepta Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Arani Chanda
- Technical Operations, Sarepta Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Bodhisattwa Chaudhuri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA; Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA; Institute of Material Sciences (IMS), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
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19
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Waheed I, Ali A, Tabassum H, Khatoon N, Lai WF, Zhou X. Lipid-based nanoparticles as drug delivery carriers for cancer therapy. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1296091. [PMID: 38660132 PMCID: PMC11040677 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1296091] [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: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a severe disease that results in death in all countries of the world. A nano-based drug delivery approach is the best alternative, directly targeting cancer tumor cells with improved drug cellular uptake. Different types of nanoparticle-based drug carriers are advanced for the treatment of cancer, and to increase the therapeutic effectiveness and safety of cancer therapy, many substances have been looked into as drug carriers. Lipid-based nanoparticles (LBNPs) have significantly attracted interest recently. These natural biomolecules that alternate to other polymers are frequently recycled in medicine due to their amphipathic properties. Lipid nanoparticles typically provide a variety of benefits, including biocompatibility and biodegradability. This review covers different classes of LBNPs, including their characterization and different synthesis technologies. This review discusses the most significant advancements in lipid nanoparticle technology and their use in medicine administration. Moreover, the review also emphasized the applications of lipid nanoparticles that are used in different cancer treatment types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtesam Waheed
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Anwar Ali
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Biochemical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Precision Medicine, University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Huma Tabassum
- Institute of Social and Cultural Studies, Department of Public Health, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Narjis Khatoon
- Department of Biotechnology, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Wing-Fu Lai
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Xin Zhou
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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20
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Wang JH, Gessler DJ, Zhan W, Gallagher TL, Gao G. Adeno-associated virus as a delivery vector for gene therapy of human diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:78. [PMID: 38565561 PMCID: PMC10987683 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01780-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as a pivotal delivery tool in clinical gene therapy owing to its minimal pathogenicity and ability to establish long-term gene expression in different tissues. Recombinant AAV (rAAV) has been engineered for enhanced specificity and developed as a tool for treating various diseases. However, as rAAV is being more widely used as a therapy, the increased demand has created challenges for the existing manufacturing methods. Seven rAAV-based gene therapy products have received regulatory approval, but there continue to be concerns about safely using high-dose viral therapies in humans, including immune responses and adverse effects such as genotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, thrombotic microangiopathy, and neurotoxicity. In this review, we explore AAV biology with an emphasis on current vector engineering strategies and manufacturing technologies. We discuss how rAAVs are being employed in ongoing clinical trials for ocular, neurological, metabolic, hematological, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular diseases as well as cancers. We outline immune responses triggered by rAAV, address associated side effects, and discuss strategies to mitigate these reactions. We hope that discussing recent advancements and current challenges in the field will be a helpful guide for researchers and clinicians navigating the ever-evolving landscape of rAAV-based gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Hui Wang
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Dominic J Gessler
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Wei Zhan
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Thomas L Gallagher
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
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21
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Wessels U, Neff F, Fakhiri J, Mayer K, Brinkmann U, Stubenrauch K. Novel assay format for total anti-adeno-associated virus antibody detection with low capsid consumption and built-in specificity control. Bioanalysis 2024; 16:431-442. [PMID: 38497775 PMCID: PMC11216498 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2023-0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: To develop an assay format for detection of total anti-adeno-associated virus 2 (AAV2) antibodies with low capsid material consumption. Methods: An immune complex (IC) assay format was developed. The format is based on the formation of ICs in solution and their subsequent detection using an anti-AAV2 antibody for capture and an antibody against the study species IgG for detection. Results: The feasibility of the IC assay for detection of preexisting and treatment-emergent anti-AAV2 antibodies was demonstrated in cynomolgus monkey and human serum samples, including samples from a preclinical study with AAV2-based therapies. Conclusion: The presented IC assay is an easy-to-perform total anti-AAV2 antibody assay that requires a small amount of unlabeled capsid material and provides an intrinsic specificity control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Wessels
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Munich, Germany
- Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Nonnenwald 2, Penzberg, 82377, Germany
| | - Florian Neff
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Fakhiri
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Klaus Mayer
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Brinkmann
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Kay Stubenrauch
- Roche Pharma Research & Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Munich, Germany
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22
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Suárez-Herrera N, Riswick IB, Vázquez-Domínguez I, Duijkers L, Karjosukarso DW, Piccolo D, Bauwens M, De Baere E, Cheetham ME, Garanto A, Collin RWJ. Proof-of-concept for multiple AON delivery by a single U7snRNA vector to restore splicing defects in ABCA4. Mol Ther 2024; 32:837-851. [PMID: 38243599 PMCID: PMC10928313 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The high allelic heterogeneity in Stargardt disease (STGD1) complicates the design of intervention strategies. A significant proportion of pathogenic intronic ABCA4 variants alters the pre-mRNA splicing process. Antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) are an attractive yet mutation-specific therapeutic strategy to restore these splicing defects. In this study, we experimentally assessed the potential of a splicing modulation therapy to target multiple intronic ABCA4 variants. AONs were inserted into U7snRNA gene cassettes and tested in midigene-based splice assays. Five potent antisense sequences were selected to generate a multiple U7snRNA cassette construct, and this combination vector showed substantial rescue of all of the splicing defects. Therefore, the combination cassette was used for viral synthesis and assessment in patient-derived photoreceptor precursor cells (PPCs). Simultaneous delivery of several modified U7snRNAs through a single AAV, however, did not show substantial splicing correction, probably due to suboptimal transduction efficiency in PPCs and/or a heterogeneous viral population containing incomplete AAV genomes. Overall, these data demonstrate the potential of the U7snRNA system to rescue multiple splicing defects, but also suggest that AAV-associated challenges are still a limiting step, underscoring the need for further optimization before implementing this strategy as a potential treatment for STGD1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Suárez-Herrera
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Human Genetics, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Iris B Riswick
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Human Genetics, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Irene Vázquez-Domínguez
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Human Genetics, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Lonneke Duijkers
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Human Genetics, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Dyah W Karjosukarso
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Human Genetics, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Miriam Bauwens
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elfride De Baere
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Alejandro Garanto
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Human Genetics, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Radboud University Medical Center, Amalia Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Nijmegen 6252GA, the Netherlands
| | - Rob W J Collin
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Human Genetics, 6525GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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23
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Keller WR, Picciano A, Wilson K, Xu J, Khasa H, Wendeler M. Rational downstream development for adeno-associated virus full/empty capsid separation - A streamlined methodology based on high-throughput screening and mechanistic modeling. J Chromatogr A 2024; 1716:464632. [PMID: 38219623 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2024.464632] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) has emerged as one of the most promising systems for therapeutic gene delivery and has demonstrated clinical success in a wide range of genetic disorders. However, manufacturing of high-quality AAV in large amounts still remains a challenge. A significant difficulty for downstream processing is the need to remove empty capsids that are generated in all currently utilized expression systems and that represent product-related impurities that adversely affect safety and efficacy of AAV vectors. Empty and full capsids exhibit only subtle differences in surface charge and size, making chromatography-based separations highly challenging. Here, we present a rapid methodology for the systematic process development of the crucial AAV full/empty capsid separation on ion-exchange media based on high-throughput screening and mechanistic modeling. Two of the most commonly employed serotypes, AAV8 and AAV9, are used as case studies. First, high-throughput studies in filter-plate format are performed that allow the rapid and comprehensive study of binding and elution behavior of AAV on different resins, using different buffer systems, pH, salt conditions, and solution additives. Small amounts of separated empty and full AAV capsids are generated by iodixanol gradient centrifugation that allow studying the binding and elution behavior of the two vector species separately in miniaturized format. Process conditions that result in maximum differences in elution behavior between empty and full capsids are then transferred to benchtop chromatography systems that are used to generate calibration data for the estimation of steric mass-action isotherm and mass transport parameters for process simulation. The resulting column models are employed for in-silico process development that serves to enhance understanding of separation constraints and to identify optimized conditions for the removal of empty particles. Finally, optimized separation conditions are verified experimentally. The methodology presented in this work provides a systematic framework that affords mechanistic understanding of the crucial empty/full capsid separation and accelerates the development of a scalable AAV downstream process.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Keller
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Angela Picciano
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Kelly Wilson
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Jin Xu
- Cell Culture and Fermentation Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Harshit Khasa
- Analytical Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Michaela Wendeler
- Purification Process Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals Development, R&D, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, United States.
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24
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Sampathkumar K, Kerwin BA. Roadmap for Drug Product Development and Manufacturing of Biologics. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:314-331. [PMID: 37944666 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic biology encompasses different modalities, and their manufacturing processes may be vastly different. However, there are many similarities that run across the different modalities during the drug product (DP) development process and manufacturing. Similarities include the need for Quality Target Product Profile (QTTP), analytical development, formulation development, container/closure studies, drug product process development, manufacturing and technical requirements set out by numerous regulatory documents such as the FDA, EMA, and ICH for pharmaceuticals for human use and other country specific requirements. While there is a plethora of knowledge on studies needed for development of a drug product, there is no specific guidance set out in a phase dependent manner delineating what studies should be completed in alignment with the different phases of clinical development from pre-clinical through commercialization. Because of this reason, we assembled a high-level drug product development and manufacturing roadmap. The roadmap is applicable across the different modalities with the intention of providing a unified framework from early phase development to commercialization of biologic drug products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnan Sampathkumar
- SSK Biosolutions LLC, 14022 Welland Terrace, North Potomac, MD 20878, USA; Currently at Invetx, Inc., One Boston Place, Suite 3930, 201 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02108, USA
| | - Bruce A Kerwin
- Kerwin BioPharma Consulting LLC, 14138 Farmview Ln NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110, USA; Coriolis Scientific Advisory Board, Coriolis Pharma, Fraunhoferstr. 18 b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
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25
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Lu M, Lee Z, Lin YC, Irfanullah I, Cai W, Hu WS. Enhancing the production of recombinant adeno-associated virus in synthetic cell lines through systematic characterization. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:341-354. [PMID: 37749931 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28562] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is among the most commonly used in vivo gene delivery vehicles and has seen a number of successes in clinical application. Current manufacturing processes of rAAV employ multiple plasmid transfection or rely on virus infection and face challenges in scale-up. A synthetic biology approach was taken to generate stable cell lines with integrated genetic modules, which produced rAAV upon induction albeit at a low productivity. To identify potential factors that restrained the productivity, we systematically characterized virus production kinetics through targeted quantitative proteomics and various physical assays of viral components. We demonstrated that reducing the excessive expression of gene of interest by its conditional expression greatly increased the productivity of these synthetic cell lines. Further enhancement was gained by optimizing induction profiles and alleviating proteasomal degradation of viral capsid protein by the addition of proteasome inhibitors. Altogether, these enhancements brought the productivity close to traditional multiple plasmid transfection. The rAAV produced had comparable full particle contents as those produced by conventional transient plasmid transfection. The present work exemplified the versatility of our synthetic biology-based viral vector production platform and its potential for plasmid- and virus-free rAAV manufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Lu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Zion Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Yu-Chieh Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ibrahim Irfanullah
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Wen Cai
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Wei-Shou Hu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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26
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Ay C, Frenzel L, Pinachyan K, Le Quellec S. Gene therapy for haemophilia A and B, from basic principles to clinical implementation: An illustrated review. Haemophilia 2024; 30:5-15. [PMID: 38111029 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14907] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With recent approval of the first two gene therapies for haemophilia A and B, educational materials about AAV-based gene therapy are needed by the haemophilia community for a better understanding of this novel therapeutic approach and helping healthcare providers and patients making personalized choices amongst an increasing array of therapeutic options. AIM To provide a comprehensive summary of the whole process of AAV-based gene therapy from basic principles to clinical implementation through an illustrated review. METHODS The authors, with expertise in and knowledge about gene therapy for haemophilia A and B, reviewed relevant articles from PubMed database and translated them into illustrations. RESULTS The review is divided into eight illustrated sections providing an overview of gene therapy for haemophilia A and B from haemophilia basics and current treatment landscape, principles of the AAV-based liver-directed gene therapy, through exploring the efficacy and safety results of published phase III clinical trials, current and future challenges, to implementation in clinical practice, including the hub and spoke models and the patient journey. CONCLUSION This illustrated review educates healthcare professionals on AAV-based gene therapy for haemophilia A and B enabling them to further educate their peers and their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Ay
- Department of Medicine I, Clinical Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Laurent Frenzel
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutical Implications, Labex GR-Ex, Imagine Institute, Inserm, Paris Descartes - Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Hematology unit care, Hemophilia Center, Necker Hospital, Paris, France
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27
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Ou J, Tang Y, Xu J, Tucci J, Borys MC, Khetan A. Recent advances in upstream process development for production of recombinant adeno-associated virus. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:53-70. [PMID: 37691172 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is rapidly emerging as the preferred delivery vehicle for gene therapies, with promising advantages in safety and efficacy. Key challenges in systemic in-vivo rAAV gene therapy applications are the gap in production capabilities versus potential market demand and complex production process. This review summarizes current available information on rAAV upstream manufacturing processes and proposed optimizations for production. The advancements in rAAV production media were reviewed with proposals to speed up the cell culture process development. Furthermore, major methods for genetic element delivery to host cells were summarized with their advantages, limitations, and future directions for optimization. In addition, culture vessel selection criteria were listed based on production cell system, scale, and development stage. Process control at the production step was also outlined with an in-depth understanding of production kinetics and quality control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfa Ou
- Biologics Development, Global Product Development and Supply, Bristol Myers Squibb, Devens, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yawen Tang
- Biologics Development, Global Product Development and Supply, Bristol Myers Squibb, Devens, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jianlin Xu
- Biologics Development, Global Product Development and Supply, Bristol Myers Squibb, Devens, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julian Tucci
- Biologics Development, Global Product Development and Supply, Bristol Myers Squibb, Devens, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael C Borys
- Biologics Development, Global Product Development and Supply, Bristol Myers Squibb, Devens, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anurag Khetan
- Biologics Development, Global Product Development and Supply, Bristol Myers Squibb, Devens, Massachusetts, USA
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28
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Chu WS, Ng J, Waddington SN, Kurian MA. Gene therapy for neurotransmitter-related disorders. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024; 47:176-191. [PMID: 38221762 PMCID: PMC11108624 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Inborn errors of neurotransmitter (NT) metabolism are a group of rare, heterogenous diseases with predominant neurological features, such as movement disorders, autonomic dysfunction, and developmental delay. Clinical overlap with other disorders has led to delayed diagnosis and treatment, and some conditions are refractory to oral pharmacotherapies. Gene therapies have been developed and translated to clinics for paediatric inborn errors of metabolism, with 38 interventional clinical trials ongoing to date. Furthermore, efforts in restoring dopamine synthesis and neurotransmission through viral gene therapy have been developed for Parkinson's disease. Along with the recent European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approval of an AAV2 gene supplementation therapy for AADC deficiency, promising efficacy and safety profiles can be achieved in this group of diseases. In this review, we present preclinical and clinical advances to address NT-related diseases, and summarise potential challenges that require careful considerations for NT gene therapy studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing Sum Chu
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, EGA Institute for Women's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Genetic Therapy Accelerator Centre, Queen Square Institute of NeurologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Joanne Ng
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, EGA Institute for Women's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Genetic Therapy Accelerator Centre, Queen Square Institute of NeurologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Simon N. Waddington
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, EGA Institute for Women's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Manju A. Kurian
- Developmental Neurosciences, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Department of NeurologyGreat Ormond Street Hospital for ChildrenLondonUK
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29
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Zhi L, Chen Y, Lai KYN, Wert J, Li S, Wang X, Tang XC, Shameem M, Liu D. Lyophilization as an effective tool to develop AAV8 gene therapy products for refrigerated storage. Int J Pharm 2023; 648:123564. [PMID: 37914106 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) has emerged as the leading gene delivery platform for treatment of monogenic disorders. Currently, for clinical and commercial products, rAAVs are typically formulated and stored below -65 °C as frozen liquid. Their long-term storage is often far from ideal because it may result in shorter drug product (DP) shelf-life compared to recombinant protein-based biologics, and also presents challenges for supply chain and inventory management. Consequently, there is great interest in developing robust lyophilized AAV DPs that are stable at 2 to 8 °C. In this study, we evaluated formulation excipients required for stable lyophilized AAV8 products including buffers, salts, cryoprotectants/lyoprotectants, surfactants, and bulking agents, and optimized the concentrations and ratios between the excipients. This led to the identification of the lead formulation that demonstrated short-term in-solution stability at 25 °C and, upon lyophilization, sufficient long-term stability at 2 to 8 °C. Our study demonstrated that, in the presence of 110 mM salts, mannitol can serve as an effective bulking agent with the appropriate formulation and lyophilization process design, and the sucrose to mannitol ratio is critical to maintain the stability and cake appearance of the lyophilized AAV8 DP. Thorough characterization of the effect of formulation components on the properties and quality of the lyophilized DP led to an optimized AAV8 lyophilized DP. This approach could be applied to streamline the future development of lyophilized AAV gene therapy products with various target transgenes and capsid serotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhi
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA.
| | - Yao Chen
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Kuan-Yu Nick Lai
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Jonathan Wert
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Shuai Li
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Xiaolin Charlie Tang
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Mohammed Shameem
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Dingjiang Liu
- Formulation Development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 777 Old Saw Mill River Road, Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA.
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30
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Onishi T, Nonaka M, Maruno T, Yamaguchi Y, Fukuhara M, Torisu T, Maeda M, Abbatiello S, Haris A, Richardson K, Giles K, Preece S, Yamano-Adachi N, Omasa T, Uchiyama S. Enhancement of recombinant adeno-associated virus activity by improved stoichiometry and homogeneity of capsid protein assembly. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101142. [PMID: 38027055 PMCID: PMC10663676 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Studies of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) revealed the mixture of full particles with different densities in rAAV. There are no conclusive results because of the lack of quantitative stoichiometric viral proteins, encapsidated DNA, and particle level analyses. We report the first comprehensive characterization of low- and high-density rAAV serotype 2 particles. Capillary gel electrophoresis showed high-density particles possessing a designed DNA encapsidated in the capsid composed of (VP1 + VP2)/VP3 = 0.27, whereas low-density particles have the same DNA but with a different capsid composition of (VP1 + VP2)/VP3 = 0.31, supported by sedimentation velocity-analytical ultracentrifugation and charge detection-mass spectrometry. In vitro analysis demonstrated that the low-density particles had 8.9% higher transduction efficacy than that of the particles before fractionation. Further, based on our recent findings of VP3 clip, we created rAAV2 single amino acid variants of the transcription start methionine of VP3 (M203V) and VP3 clip (M211V). The rAAV2-M203V variant had homogeneous particles with higher (VP1+VP2)/VP3 values (0.35) and demonstrated 24.7% higher transduction efficacy compared with the wild type. This study successfully provided highly functional rAAV by the extensive fractionation from the mixture of rAAV2 full particles or by the single amino acid replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Onishi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Michika Nonaka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takahiro Maruno
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- U-Medico Inc, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamaguchi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Mitsuko Fukuhara
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- U-Medico Inc, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Torisu
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masaharu Maeda
- Osaka Consolidated Laboratory, Manufacturing Technology Association of Biologics, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | | | | | - Keith Richardson
- Waters Corporation (Micromass UK Ltd), Stamford Avenue, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow SK9 4AX, UK
| | | | - Steve Preece
- Waters Corporation (Micromass UK Ltd), Stamford Avenue, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow SK9 4AX, UK
| | - Noriko Yamano-Adachi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takeshi Omasa
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Susumu Uchiyama
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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31
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Rahban M, Ahmad F, Piatyszek MA, Haertlé T, Saso L, Saboury AA. Stabilization challenges and aggregation in protein-based therapeutics in the pharmaceutical industry. RSC Adv 2023; 13:35947-35963. [PMID: 38090079 PMCID: PMC10711991 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra06476j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein-based therapeutics have revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry and become vital components in the development of future therapeutics. They offer several advantages over traditional small molecule drugs, including high affinity, potency and specificity, while demonstrating low toxicity and minimal adverse effects. However, the development and manufacturing processes of protein-based therapeutics presents challenges related to protein folding, purification, stability and immunogenicity that should be addressed. These proteins, like other biological molecules, are prone to chemical and physical instabilities. The stability of protein-based drugs throughout the entire manufacturing, storage and delivery process is essential. The occurrence of structural instability resulting from misfolding, unfolding, and modifications, as well as aggregation, poses a significant risk to the efficacy of these drugs, overshadowing their promising attributes. Gaining insight into structural alterations caused by aggregation and their impact on immunogenicity is vital for the advancement and refinement of protein therapeutics. Hence, in this review, we have discussed some features of protein aggregation during production, formulation and storage as well as stabilization strategies in protein engineering and computational methods to prevent aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdie Rahban
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman Iran
| | - Faizan Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Chemical & Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard New Delhi-110062 India
| | | | | | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University Rome Italy
| | - Ali Akbar Saboury
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran Tehran 1417614335 Iran +9821 66404680 +9821 66956984
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32
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Dharmaraj T, Kratochvil MJ, Pourtois JD, Chen Q, Hajfathalian M, Hargil A, Lin YH, Evans Z, Oromí-Bosch A, Berry JD, McBride R, Haddock NL, Holman DR, van Belleghem JD, Chang TH, Barr JJ, Lavigne R, Heilshorn SC, Blankenberg FG, Bollyky PL. Rapid assessment of changes in phage bioactivity using dynamic light scattering. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad406. [PMID: 38111822 PMCID: PMC10726995 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Extensive efforts are underway to develop bacteriophages as therapies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, these efforts are confounded by the instability of phage preparations and a lack of suitable tools to assess active phage concentrations over time. In this study, we use dynamic light scattering (DLS) to measure changes in phage physical state in response to environmental factors and time, finding that phages tend to decay and form aggregates and that the degree of aggregation can be used to predict phage bioactivity. We then use DLS to optimize phage storage conditions for phages from human clinical trials, predict bioactivity in 50-y-old archival stocks, and evaluate phage samples for use in a phage therapy/wound infection model. We also provide a web application (Phage-Estimator of Lytic Function) to facilitate DLS studies of phages. We conclude that DLS provides a rapid, convenient, and nondestructive tool for quality control of phage preparations in academic and commercial settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejas Dharmaraj
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael J Kratochvil
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Julie D Pourtois
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
| | - Qingquan Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Maryam Hajfathalian
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Aviv Hargil
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yung-Hao Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Zoe Evans
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Joel D Berry
- Felix Biotechnology, South SanFrancisco, CA 94080, USA
| | | | - Naomi L Haddock
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Derek R Holman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jonas D van Belleghem
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Tony H Chang
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jeremy J Barr
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Rob Lavigne
- Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Leuven 3001, Belgium
| | - Sarah C Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Francis G Blankenberg
- Division of Pediatric Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Paul L Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Beckman Center for Molecular and Genetic Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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33
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Bažec K, Krašna M, Mihevc A, Leskovec M, Štrancar A, Tajnik Sbaizero M. Optimization of rAAV capture step purification using SO3 monolith chromatography. Electrophoresis 2023; 44:1943-1952. [PMID: 37603380 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300104] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are crucial tools for gene therapy applications. As AAVs are administered in vivo, stringent purity requirements must be met, necessitating the development of various downstream processing strategies in accordance with regulatory guidelines. In this context, we focus on the non-affinity serotype-independent recombinant AAV (rAAV) capture step, which involves the use of Convective Interaction Media (CIM) cation-exchange SO3 monoliths. We analyzed differentially pretreated viral samples obtained from the Sf9 cell line and applied these samples to the capture SO3 chromatography step. We conducted screening experiments using CIM SO3 0.05 mL monolithic 96-well plates with buffers of varying pH, sodium chloride concentrations, and the inclusion of poloxamer 188, aiming to select the optimal binding mobile phase. Dynamic binding capacity was defined for different pretreatments and the optimal conditions were subsequently retested using the industrial purification CIMmultus line. The results demonstrated a high overall vector recovery (51%) and a significant reduction in impurities (99.98% for protein reduction and 99.25% for DNA reduction) using the selected capture step parameters, thereby confirming the successful optimization of the rAAV capture step in the downstream process using monoliths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaja Bažec
- Process Development for Viral Vectors and Vaccines, Sartorius BIA Separations, Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Mirjam Krašna
- Process Development for Viral Vectors and Vaccines, Sartorius BIA Separations, Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Andrej Mihevc
- Process Development for Viral Vectors and Vaccines, Sartorius BIA Separations, Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Maja Leskovec
- Process Development for Viral Vectors and Vaccines, Sartorius BIA Separations, Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Aleš Štrancar
- Process Development for Viral Vectors and Vaccines, Sartorius BIA Separations, Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Mojca Tajnik Sbaizero
- Process Development for Viral Vectors and Vaccines, Sartorius BIA Separations, Ajdovščina, Slovenia
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Fu Q, Lee YS, Green EA, Wang Y, Park SY, Polanco A, Lee KH, Betenbaugh M, McNally D, Yoon S. Design space determination to optimize DNA complexation and full capsid formation in transient rAAV manufacturing. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:3148-3162. [PMID: 37475681 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28508] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are a promising platform for in vivo gene therapies. However, cost-effective, well-characterized processes necessary to manufacture rAAV therapeutics are challenging to develop without an understanding of how process parameters (PPs) affect rAAV product quality attributes (PQAs). In this work, a central composite orthogonal experimental design was employed to examine the influence of four PPs for transient transfection complex formation (polyethylenimine:DNA [PEI:DNA] ratio, total DNA/cell, cocktail volume, and incubation time) on three rAAV PQAs related to capsid content (vector genome titer, vector genome:capsid particle ratio, and two-dimensional vector genome titer ratio). A regression model was established for each PQA using partial least squares, and a design space (DS) was defined in which Monte Carlo simulations predicted < 1% probability of failure (POF) to meet predetermined PQA specifications. Of the three PQAs, viral genome titer was most strongly correlated with changes in complexation PPs. The DS and acceptable PP ranges were largest when incubation time and cocktail volume were kept at mid-high setpoints, and PEI:DNA ratio and total DNA/cell were at low-mid setpoints. Verification experiments confirmed model predictive capability, and this work establishes a framework for studying other rAAV PPs and their relationship to PQAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Fu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yong Suk Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Erica A Green
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Yongdan Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - So Young Park
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ashli Polanco
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kelvin H Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Michael Betenbaugh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - David McNally
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
- MassBiologics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Mattapan, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Seongkyu Yoon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
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35
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Miyaoka R, Tsunekawa Y, Kurosawa Y, Sasaki T, Onodera A, Sakamoto K, Kakiuchi Y, Wada M, Nitahara-Kasahara Y, Hayashita-Kinoh H, Okada T. Development of a novel purification method for AAV vectors using tangential flow filtration. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:3311-3321. [PMID: 37584217 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector can efficiently transduce therapeutic genes in various tissue types with less side effects; however, owing to complex multistep processes during manufacture, there have been surges in the pricing of recently approved AAV vector-based gene therapy products. This study aimed to develop a simple and efficient method for high-quality purification of AAV vector via tangential flow filtration (TFF), which is commonly used for concentration and diafiltration of solutions during AAV vector purification. We established a novel purification method using TFF and surfactants. Treatment with two classes of surfactants (anionic and zwitterionic) successfully inhibited the aggregation of residual proteins separated from the AAV vector in the crude product by TFF, obtaining a clearance of 99.5% residual proteins. Infectivity of the AAV vector purified using the new method was confirmed both in vitro and in vivo, and no remarkable inflammation or tissue damage was observed in mouse skeletal muscle after local administration. Overall, our proposed method could be used to establish a platform for the purification of AAV vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimi Miyaoka
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Medical Technology & Material Laboratory, Research and Business Development Division, Asahi Kasei Medical Co., Ltd., Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Yuji Tsunekawa
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yae Kurosawa
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Chromatography Media Business Division, HOYA Technosurgical Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takako Sasaki
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Azusa Onodera
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakamoto
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Kakiuchi
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mikako Wada
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Nitahara-Kasahara
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromi Hayashita-Kinoh
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Okada
- Division of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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36
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Kohn DB, Chen YY, Spencer MJ. Successes and challenges in clinical gene therapy. Gene Ther 2023; 30:738-746. [PMID: 37935854 PMCID: PMC10678346 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00390-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite the ups and downs in the field over three decades, the science of gene therapy has continued to advance and provide enduring treatments for increasing number of diseases. There are active clinical trials approaching a variety of inherited and acquired disorders of different organ systems. Approaches include ex vivo modification of hematologic stem cells (HSC), T lymphocytes and other immune cells, as well as in vivo delivery of genes or gene editing reagents to the relevant target cells by either local or systemic administration. In this article, we highlight success and ongoing challenges in three areas of high activity in gene therapy: inherited blood cell diseases by targeting hematopoietic stem cells, malignant disorders using immune effector cells genetically modified with chimeric antigen receptors, and ophthalmologic, neurologic, and coagulation disorders using in vivo administration of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. In recent years, there have been true cures for many of these diseases, with sustained clinical benefit that exceed those from other medical approaches. Each of these treatments faces ongoing challenges, namely their high one-time costs and the complexity of manufacturing the therapeutic agents, which are biological viruses and cell products, at pharmacologic standards of quality and consistency. New models of reimbursement are needed to make these innovative treatments widely available to patients in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald B Kohn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Yvonne Y Chen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Henry Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy Center at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Melissa J Spencer
- The Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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37
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Kilgore R, Minzoni A, Shastry S, Smith W, Barbieri E, Wu Y, LeBarre JP, Chu W, O'Brien J, Menegatti S. The downstream bioprocess toolbox for therapeutic viral vectors. J Chromatogr A 2023; 1709:464337. [PMID: 37722177 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Viral vectors are poised to acquire a prominent position in modern medicine and biotechnology owing to their role as delivery agents for gene therapies, oncolytic agents, vaccine platforms, and a gateway to engineer cell therapies as well as plants and animals for sustainable agriculture. The success of viral vectors will critically depend on the availability of flexible and affordable biomanufacturing strategies that can meet the growing demand by clinics and biotech companies worldwide. In this context, a key role will be played by downstream process technology: while initially adapted from protein purification media, the purification toolbox for viral vectors is currently undergoing a rapid expansion to fit the unique biomolecular characteristics of these products. Innovation efforts are articulated on two fronts, namely (i) the discovery of affinity ligands that target adeno-associated virus, lentivirus, adenovirus, etc.; (ii) the development of adsorbents with innovative morphologies, such as membranes and 3D printed monoliths, that fit the size of viral vectors. Complementing these efforts are the design of novel process layouts that capitalize on novel ligands and adsorbents to ensure high yield and purity of the product while safeguarding its therapeutic efficacy and safety; and a growing panel of analytical methods that monitor the complex array of critical quality attributes of viral vectors and correlate them to the purification strategies. To help explore this complex and evolving environment, this study presents a comprehensive overview of the downstream bioprocess toolbox for viral vectors established in the last decade, and discusses present efforts and future directions contributing to the success of this promising class of biological medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Kilgore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States.
| | - Arianna Minzoni
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Shriarjun Shastry
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States; Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Will Smith
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Eduardo Barbieri
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Yuxuan Wu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Jacob P LeBarre
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Wenning Chu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Juliana O'Brien
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Stefano Menegatti
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States; Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center (BTEC), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States; North Carolina Viral Vector Initiative in Research and Learning, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
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38
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Reddy JV, Raudenbush K, Papoutsakis ET, Ierapetritou M. Cell-culture process optimization via model-based predictions of metabolism and protein glycosylation. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 67:108179. [PMID: 37257729 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108179] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In order to meet the rising demand for biologics and become competitive on the developing biosimilar market, there is a need for process intensification of biomanufacturing processes. Process development of biologics has historically relied on extensive experimentation to develop and optimize biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Experimentation to optimize media formulations, feeding schedules, bioreactor operations and bioreactor scale up is expensive, labor intensive and time consuming. Mathematical modeling frameworks have the potential to enable process intensification while reducing the experimental burden. This review focuses on mathematical modeling of cellular metabolism and N-linked glycosylation as applied to upstream manufacturing of biologics. We review developments in the field of modeling cellular metabolism of mammalian cells using kinetic and stoichiometric modeling frameworks along with their applications to simulate, optimize and improve mechanistic understanding of the process. Interest in modeling N-linked glycosylation has led to the creation of various types of parametric and non-parametric models. Most published studies on mammalian cell metabolism have performed experiments in shake flasks where the pH and dissolved oxygen cannot be controlled. Efforts to understand and model the effect of bioreactor-specific parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and bioreactor heterogeneity are critically reviewed. Most modeling efforts have focused on the Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells, which are most commonly used to produce monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). However, these modeling approaches can be generalized and applied to any mammalian cell-based manufacturing platform. Current and potential future applications of these models for Vero cell-based vaccine manufacturing, CAR-T cell therapies, and viral vector manufacturing are also discussed. We offer specific recommendations for improving the applicability of these models to industrially relevant processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayanth Venkatarama Reddy
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-3196, USA
| | - Katherine Raudenbush
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-3196, USA
| | - Eleftherios Terry Papoutsakis
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-3196, USA; Delaware Biotechnology Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, USA.
| | - Marianthi Ierapetritou
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-3196, USA.
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39
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Jiang Z, Dalby PA. Challenges in scaling up AAV-based gene therapy manufacturing. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:1268-1281. [PMID: 37127491 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Accelerating the scale up of adeno-associated virus (AAV) manufacture is highly desirable to meet the increased demand for gene therapies. However, the development of bioprocesses for AAV gene therapies remains time-consuming and challenging. The quality by design (QbD) approach ensures bioprocess designs that meet the desired product quality and safety profile. Rapid stress tests, developability screens, and scale-down technologies have the potential to streamline AAV product and manufacturing bioprocess development within the QbD framework. Here we review how their successful use for antibody manufacture development is translating to AAV, but also how this will depend critically on improved analytical methods and adaptation of the tools as more understanding is gained on the critical attributes of AAV required for successful therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Jiang
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Paul A Dalby
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
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40
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Dubey AK, Mostafavi E. Biomaterials-mediated CRISPR/Cas9 delivery: recent challenges and opportunities in gene therapy. Front Chem 2023; 11:1259435. [PMID: 37841202 PMCID: PMC10568484 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1259435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of biomaterials in delivering CRISPR/Cas9 for gene therapy in infectious diseases holds tremendous potential. This innovative approach combines the advantages of CRISPR/Cas9 with the protective properties of biomaterials, enabling accurate and efficient gene editing while enhancing safety. Biomaterials play a vital role in shielding CRISPR/Cas9 components, such as lipid nanoparticles or viral vectors, from immunological processes and degradation, extending their effectiveness. By utilizing the flexibility of biomaterials, tailored systems can be designed to address specific genetic diseases, paving the way for personalized therapeutics. Furthermore, this delivery method offers promising avenues in combating viral illnesses by precisely modifying pathogen genomes, and reducing their pathogenicity. Biomaterials facilitate site-specific gene modifications, ensuring effective delivery to infected cells while minimizing off-target effects. However, challenges remain, including optimizing delivery efficiency, reducing off-target effects, ensuring long-term safety, and establishing scalable production techniques. Thorough research, pre-clinical investigations, and rigorous safety evaluations are imperative for successful translation from the laboratory to clinical applications. In this review, we discussed how CRISPR/Cas9 delivery using biomaterials revolutionizes gene therapy and infectious disease treatment, offering precise and safe editing capabilities with the potential to significantly improve human health and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Kumar Dubey
- Global Research and Publishing Foundation, New Delhi, India
- Institute of Scholars, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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41
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Asher D, Dai D, Klimchak AC, Sedita LE, Gooch KL, Rodino-Klapac L. Paving the way for future gene therapies: A case study of scientific spillover from delandistrogene moxeparvovec. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:474-483. [PMID: 37674905 PMCID: PMC10477757 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapies have potential to improve outcomes of severe diseases after only a single administration. Novel therapies are continually being developed using knowledge gained from prior successes, a concept known as scientific spillover. Gene therapy advancement requires extensive development at each stage: preclinical work to create and evaluate vehicles for delivery of the therapy, design of clinical development programs, and establishment of a large-scale manufacturing process. Pioneering gene therapies are generating spillover as investigators confront myriad issues specific to this treatment modality. These include frameworks for construct engineering, dose evaluation, patient selection, outcome assessment, and safety monitoring. Consequently, the benefits of these therapies extend beyond offering knowledge for treating any one disease to establishing new platforms and paradigms that will accelerate advancement of future gene therapies. This impact is even more profound in rare diseases, where developing therapies in isolation may not be possible. This review describes some instances of scientific spillover in healthcare, and specifically gene therapy, using delandistrogene moxeparvovec (SRP-9001), a gene therapy recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of ambulatory pediatric patients aged 4-5 years with Duchenne muscular dystrophy with a confirmed mutation in the DMD gene, as a case study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damon Asher
- Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., 215 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Daisy Dai
- Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., 215 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Alexa C. Klimchak
- Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., 215 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Lauren E. Sedita
- Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc., 215 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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42
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Moreno Velasquez SD, Gerstmann E, Grimm D. Goody two plasmids: An optimized transient transfection system for AAV vector production. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:191-193. [PMID: 37519408 PMCID: PMC10371777 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio David Moreno Velasquez
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Emma Gerstmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Grimm
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Virology, Section Viral Vector Technologies, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, BioQuant, Center for Integrative Infectious Diseases (CIID), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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43
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Kumar P, Wang M, Kumru OS, Hickey JM, Sanmiguel J, Zabaleta N, Vandenberghe LH, Joshi SB, Volkin DB. Correlating physicochemical and biological properties to define critical quality attributes of a rAAV vaccine candidate. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:103-121. [PMID: 37746246 PMCID: PMC10512015 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.06.004] [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: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are a preferred vector system in clinical gene transfer. A fundamental challenge to formulate and deliver rAAVs as stable and efficacious vaccines is to elucidate interrelationships between the vector's physicochemical properties and biological potency. To this end, we evaluated an rAAV-based coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine candidate that encodes the Spike antigen (AC3) and is produced by a commercially viable process. First, state-of-the-art analytical techniques were employed to determine key structural attributes of AC3, including primary and higher-order structures, particle size, empty/full capsid ratios, aggregates, and multi-step thermal degradation pathway analysis. Next, several quantitative potency measures for AC3 were implemented, and data were correlated with the physicochemical analyses on thermally stressed and control samples. Results demonstrate links between decreasing AC3 physical stability profiles, in vitro transduction efficiency in a cell-based assay, and, importantly, in vivo immunogenicity in a mouse model. These findings are discussed in the general context of future development of rAAV-based vaccine candidates as well as specifically for the rAAV vaccine application under study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Michael Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Ozan S. Kumru
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - John M. Hickey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Julio Sanmiguel
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Nerea Zabaleta
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Luk H. Vandenberghe
- Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sangeeta B. Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - David B. Volkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
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44
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Virgolini N, Silvano M, Hagan R, Correia R, Alves PM, Clarke C, Roldão A, Isidro IA. Impact of dual-baculovirus infection on the Sf9 insect cell transcriptome during rAAV production using single-cell RNA-seq. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:2588-2600. [PMID: 36919374 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
The insect cell-baculovirus expression vector system (IC-BEVS) has shown to be a powerful platform to produce complex biopharmaceutical products, such as recombinant proteins and virus-like particles. More recently, IC-BEVS has also been used as an alternative to produce recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV). However, little is known about the variability of insect cell populations and the potential effect of heterogeneity (e.g., stochastic infection process and differences in infection kinetics) on product titer and/or quality. In this study, transcriptomics analysis of Sf9 insect cells during the production of rAAV of serotype 2 (rAAV2) using a low multiplicity of infection, dual-baculovirus system was performed via single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq). Before infection, the principal source of variability in Sf9 insect cells was associated with the cell cycle. Over the course of infection, an increase in transcriptional heterogeneity was detected, which was linked to the expression of baculovirus genes as well as to differences in rAAV transgenes (rep, cap and gfp) expression. Noteworthy, at 24 h post-infection, only 29.4% of cells enclosed all three necessary rAAV transgenes to produce packed rAAV2 particles, indicating limitations of the dual-baculovirus system. In addition, the trajectory analysis herein performed highlighted that biological processes such as protein folding, metabolic processes, translation, and stress response have been significantly altered upon infection. Overall, this work reports the first application of scRNA-seq to the IC-BEVS and highlights significant variations in individual cells within the population, providing insight into the rational cell and process engineering toward improved rAAV2 production in IC-BEVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaus Virgolini
- IBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Marco Silvano
- IBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ryan Hagan
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Ricardo Correia
- IBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Paula M Alves
- IBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Colin Clarke
- National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Belfield, Ireland
| | - António Roldão
- IBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Inês A Isidro
- IBET, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, Oeiras, Portugal
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
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45
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Fu Q, Polanco A, Lee YS, Yoon S. Critical challenges and advances in recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) biomanufacturing. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:2601-2621. [PMID: 37126355 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a promising therapeutic approach for genetic and acquired diseases nowadays. Among DNA delivery vectors, recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is one of the most effective and safest vectors used in commercial drugs and clinical trials. However, the current yield of rAAV biomanufacturing lags behind the necessary dosages for clinical and commercial use, which embodies a concentrated reflection of low productivity of rAAV from host cells, difficult scalability of the rAAV-producing bioprocess, and high levels of impurities materialized during production. Those issues directly impact the price of gene therapy medicine in the market, limiting most patients' access to gene therapy. In this context, the current practices and several critical challenges associated with rAAV gene therapy bioprocesses are reviewed, followed by a discussion of recent advances in rAAV-mediated gene therapy and other therapeutic biological fields that could improve biomanufacturing if these advances are integrated effectively into the current systems. This review aims to provide the current state-of-the-art technology and perspectives to enhance the productivity of rAAV while reducing impurities during production of rAAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Fu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ashli Polanco
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yong Suk Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Seongkyu Yoon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
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Hallam TM, Sharp SJ, Andreadi A, Kavanagh D. Complement factor I: Regulatory nexus, driver of immunopathology, and therapeutic. Immunobiology 2023; 228:152410. [PMID: 37478687 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2023.152410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Complement factor I (FI) is the nexus for classical, lectin and alternative pathway complement regulation. FI is an 88 kDa plasma protein that circulates in an inactive configuration until it forms a trimolecular complex with its cofactor and substrate whereupon a structural reorganization allows the catalytic triad to cleave its substrates, C3b and C4b. In keeping with its role as the master complement regulatory enzyme, deficiency has been linked to immunopathology. In the setting of complete FI deficiency, a consumptive C3 deficiency results in recurrent infections with encapsulated microorganisms. Aseptic cerebral inflammation and vasculitic presentations are also less commonly observed. Heterozygous mutations in the factor I gene (CFI) have been demonstrated to be enriched in atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome, albeit with a very low penetrance. Haploinsufficiency of CFI has also been associated with decreased retinal thickness and is a strong risk factor for the development of age-related macular degeneration. Supplementation of FI using plasma purified or recombinant protein has long been postulated, however, technical difficulties prevented progression into clinical trials. It is only using gene therapy that CFI supplementation has reached the clinic with GT005 in phase I/II clinical trials for geographic atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Hallam
- Gyroscope Therapeutics Limited, A Novartis Company, Rolling Stock Yard, London N7 9AS, UK; Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Building 26, Royal Victoria Infirmary, UK
| | - S J Sharp
- Gyroscope Therapeutics Limited, A Novartis Company, Rolling Stock Yard, London N7 9AS, UK
| | - A Andreadi
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Building 26, Royal Victoria Infirmary, UK
| | - D Kavanagh
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Building 26, Royal Victoria Infirmary, UK; NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Biomedical Research Building, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5PL, UK.
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Grossen P, Skaripa Koukelli I, van Haasteren J, H E Machado A, Dürr C. The ice age - A review on formulation of Adeno-associated virus therapeutics. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 190:1-23. [PMID: 37423416 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapies offer promising therapeutic alternatives for many disorders that currently lack efficient treatment options. Due to their chemical nature and physico-chemical properties, delivery of polynucleic acids into target cells and subcellular compartments remains a significant challenge. Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) have gained a lot of interest for the efficient delivery of therapeutic single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) genomes over the past decades. More than a hundred products have been tested in clinical settings and three products have received market authorization by the US FDA in recent years. A lot of effort is being made to generate potent recombinant AAV (rAAV) vectors that show favorable safety and immunogenicity profiles for either local or systemic administration. Manufacturing processes are gradually being optimized to deliver a consistently high product quality and to serve potential market needs beyond rare indications. In contrast to protein therapeutics, most rAAV products are still supplied as frozen liquids within rather simple formulation buffers to enable sufficient product shelf life, significantly hampering global distribution and access. In this review, we aim to outline the hurdles of rAAV drug product development and discuss critical formulation and composition aspects of rAAV products under clinical evaluation. Further, we highlight recent development efforts in order to achieve stable liquid or lyophilized products. This review therefore provides a comprehensive overview on current state-of-the-art rAAV formulations and can further serve as a map for rational formulation development activities in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Grossen
- F.Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Pharma Technical Development, Pharmaceutical Development and Supplies EU, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Irini Skaripa Koukelli
- F.Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Pharma Technical Development, Pharmaceutical Development and Supplies EU, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joost van Haasteren
- F.Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Cell and Gene Therapy Unit, Gene Therapy Development Clinical Manufacturing, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alexandra H E Machado
- F.Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Pharma Technical Development, Pharmaceutical Development and Supplies EU, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Dürr
- F.Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Pharma Technical Development, Pharmaceutical Development and Supplies EU, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
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Hiemenz C, Pacios-Michelena A, Helbig C, Vezočnik V, Strebl M, Nikels F, Hawe A, Garidel P, Menzen T. Characterization of Virus Particles and Submicron-Sized Particulate Impurities in Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Drug Product. J Pharm Sci 2023; 112:2190-2202. [PMID: 37211315 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Characterization of particulate impurities such as aggregates is necessary to develop safe and efficacious adeno-associated virus (AAV) drug products. Although aggregation of AAVs can reduce the bioavailability of the virus, only a limited number of studies focus on the analysis of aggregates. We explored three technologies for their capability to characterize AAV monomers and aggregates in the submicron (<1 µm) size range: (i) mass photometry (MP), (ii) asymmetric flow field flow fractionation coupled to a UV-detector (AF4-UV/Vis) and (iii) microfluidic resistive pulse sensing (MRPS). Although low counts for aggregates impeded a quantitative analysis, MP was affirmed as an accurate and rapid method for quantifying the genome content of empty/filled/double-filled capsids, consistent with sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation results. MRPS and AF4-UV/Vis enabled the detection and quantification of aggregate content. The developed AF4-UV/Vis method separated AAV monomers from smaller aggregates, thereby enabling a quantification of aggregates <200 nm. MRPS was experienced as a straightforward method to determine the particle concentration and size distribution between 250-2000 nm, provided that the samples do not block the microfluidic cartridge. Overall, within this study we explored the benefits and limitations of the complementary technologies for assessing aggregate content in AAV samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michael Strebl
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Innovation Unit, Germany
| | - Felix Nikels
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Innovation Unit, Germany.
| | - Andrea Hawe
- Coriolis Pharma Research GmbH, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Patrick Garidel
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riß, Innovation Unit, Germany
| | - Tim Menzen
- Coriolis Pharma Research GmbH, Martinsried, Germany.
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49
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Soni H, Lako I, Placidi M, Cramer SM. Implications of AAV affinity column reuse and vector stability on product quality attributes. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023. [PMID: 37485847 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28500] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
In this work, the implications of AAV9 capsid design and column reuse on AAV9 vector product quality were assessed with POROS CaptureSelect (PCS) AAVX and AAV9 resins using sf9 insect cell-derived model AAV9 vectors with varying viral protein (VP) ratios. Chromatographic experiments with purified drug substance AAV9 model feeds indicated consistent vector elution profiles, independent of adeno-associated virus (AAV) VP ratio, or cycle number. In contrast, the presence of process impurities in the clarified lysate feeds resulted in clear changes in the elution patterns. This included increased aggregate content in the vector eluates over multiple cycles as well as clear differences in the performance of these affinity resin systems. The AAV9-serotype specific PCS AAV9 column, with lower vector elution pH, resulted in higher aggregate content over multiple cycles as compared to the serotype-independent PCS AAVX column. Further, the results with vectors of varying VP ratio indicated that while one vector type eluate displayed higher aggregation in both affinity columns over column reuse, the eluate with the other vector type did not exhibit changes in the aggregation profile. Interestingly, vector aggregates in the affinity eluates also contained double-stranded DNA impurities and histone proteins, with similar trends to the aggregate levels. This behavior upon column reuse indicates that these host cell impurities are likely carried over to subsequent runs due to incomplete clean-in-place (CIP). These results indicate that feed impurities, affinity resin characteristics, elution pH, column CIP, and vector stability can impact the reusability of AAV affinity columns and product quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshal Soni
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Ira Lako
- Voyager Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Steven M Cramer
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
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50
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Dharmaraj T, Kratochvil MJ, Pourtois JD, Chen Q, Hajfathalian M, Hargil A, Lin YH, Evans Z, Oromí-Bosch A, Berry JD, McBride R, Haddock NL, Holman DR, van Belleghem JD, Chang TH, Barr JJ, Lavigne R, Heilshorn SC, Blankenberg FG, Bollyky PL. Rapid assessment of changes in phage bioactivity using dynamic light scattering. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.02.547396. [PMID: 37425882 PMCID: PMC10327207 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.02.547396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Extensive efforts are underway to develop bacteriophages as therapies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, these efforts are confounded by the instability of phage preparations and a lack of suitable tools to assess active phage concentrations over time. Here, we use Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) to measure changes in phage physical state in response to environmental factors and time, finding that phages tend to decay and form aggregates and that the degree of aggregation can be used to predict phage bioactivity. We then use DLS to optimize phage storage conditions for phages from human clinical trials, predict bioactivity in 50-year-old archival stocks, and evaluate phage samples for use in a phage therapy/wound infection model. We also provide a web-application (Phage-ELF) to facilitate DLS studies of phages. We conclude that DLS provides a rapid, convenient, and non-destructive tool for quality control of phage preparations in academic and commercial settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejas Dharmaraj
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael J. Kratochvil
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Julie D. Pourtois
- Hopkins Marine Station, Department of Biology, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
| | - Qingquan Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Maryam Hajfathalian
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Aviv Hargil
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yung-Hao Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Zoe Evans
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | | | | | - Naomi L. Haddock
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Derek R. Holman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jonas D. van Belleghem
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Tony H. Chang
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jeremy J. Barr
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, 3800, VIC, Australia
| | - Rob Lavigne
- Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Leuven, 3001, Belgium
| | - Sarah C. Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Francis G. Blankenberg
- Division of Pediatric Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Paul L. Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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