1
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Soth S, Takakura M, Suekawa M, Onishi T, Hirohata K, Hashimoto T, Maruno T, Fukuhara M, Tsunaka Y, Torisu T, Uchiyama S. Quantification of full and empty particles of adeno-associated virus vectors via a novel dual fluorescence-linked immunosorbent assay. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101291. [PMID: 39070291 PMCID: PMC11283060 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101291] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector is one of the most advanced platforms for gene therapy because of its low immunogenicity and non-pathogenicity. The concentrations of both AAV vector empty particles, which do not contain DNA and do not show any efficacy, and AAV vector full particles (FPs), which contain DNA, are important quality attributes. In this study, a dual fluorescence-linked immunosorbent assay (dFLISA), which uses two fluorescent dyes to quantify capsid and genome titers in a single analysis, was established. In dFLISA, capture of AAV particles, detection of capsid proteins, and release and detection of the viral genome are performed in the same well. We demonstrated that the capsid and genomic titers determined by dFLISA were comparable with those of analytical ultracentrifugation. The FP ratios determined by dFLISA were in good agreement with the expected values. In addition, we showed that dFLISA can quantify the genomic and capsid titers of crude samples. dFLISA can be easily modified for measuring other AAV vector serotypes and AAV vectors with different genome lengths. These features make dFLISA a valuable tool for the future development of AAV-based gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sereirath Soth
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Mikako Takakura
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahiro Suekawa
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takayuki Onishi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kiichi Hirohata
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tamami Hashimoto
- 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
| | - Mitsuko Fukuhara
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasuo Tsunaka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 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
| | - Susumu Uchiyama
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
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Clark RD, Rabito F, Munyonho FT, Remcho TP, Kolls JK. Evaluation of anti-vector immune responses to adenovirus-mediated lung gene therapy and modulation by αCD20. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101286. [PMID: 39070292 PMCID: PMC11283059 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101286] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Although the last decade has seen tremendous progress in drugs that treat cystic fibrosis (CF) due to mutations that lead to protein misfolding, there are approximately 8%-10% of subjects with mutations that result in no significant CFTR protein expression demonstrating the need for gene editing or gene replacement with inhaled mRNA or vector-based approaches. A limitation for vector-based approaches is the formation of neutralizing humoral responses. Given that αCD20 has been used to manage post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease in CF subjects with lung transplants, we studied the ability of αCD20 to module both T and B cell responses in the lung to one of the most immunogenic vectors, E1-deleted adenovirus serotype 5. We found that αCD20 significantly blocked luminal antibody responses and efficiently permitted re-dosing. αCD20 had more limited impact on the T cell compartment, but reduced tissue resident memory T cell responses in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Taken together, these pre-clinical studies suggest that αCD20 could be re-purposed for lung gene therapy protocols to permit re-dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D.E. Clark
- Departments of Pediatrics & Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Infection and Inflammation, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Felix Rabito
- Departments of Pediatrics & Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Infection and Inflammation, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Ferris T. Munyonho
- Departments of Pediatrics & Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Infection and Inflammation, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - T. Parks Remcho
- Departments of Pediatrics & Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Infection and Inflammation, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Jay K. Kolls
- Departments of Pediatrics & Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Infection and Inflammation, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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3
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Enayati M, Liu W, Madry H, Neisiany RE, Cucchiarini M. Functionalized hydrogels as smart gene delivery systems to treat musculoskeletal disorders. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 331:103232. [PMID: 38889626 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2024.103232] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite critical advances in regenerative medicine, the generation of definitive, reliable treatments for musculoskeletal diseases remains challenging. Gene therapy based on the delivery of therapeutic genetic sequences has strong value to offer effective, durable options to decisively manage such disorders. Furthermore, scaffold-mediated gene therapy provides powerful alternatives to overcome hurdles associated with classical gene therapy, allowing for the spatiotemporal delivery of candidate genes to sites of injury. Among the many scaffolds for musculoskeletal research, hydrogels raised increasing attention in addition to other potent systems (solid, hybrid scaffolds) due to their versatility and competence as drug and cell carriers in tissue engineering and wound dressing. Attractive functionalities of hydrogels for musculoskeletal therapy include their injectability, stimuli-responsiveness, self-healing, and nanocomposition that may further allow to upgrade of them as "intelligently" efficient and mechanically strong platforms, rather than as just inert vehicles. Such functionalized hydrogels may also be tuned to successfully transfer therapeutic genes in a minimally invasive manner in order to protect their cargos and allow for their long-term effects. In light of such features, this review focuses on functionalized hydrogels and demonstrates their competence for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders using gene therapy procedures, from gene therapy principles to hydrogel functionalization methods and applications of hydrogel-mediated gene therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, while remaining challenges are being discussed in the perspective of translation in patients. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Despite advances in regenerative medicine, the generation of definitive, reliable treatments for musculoskeletal diseases remains challenging. Gene therapy has strong value in offering effective, durable options to decisively manage such disorders. Scaffold-mediated gene therapy provides powerful alternatives to overcome hurdles associated with classical gene therapy. Among many scaffolds for musculoskeletal research, hydrogels raised increasing attention. Functionalities including injectability, stimuli-responsiveness, and self-healing, tune them as "intelligently" efficient and mechanically strong platforms, rather than as just inert vehicles. This review introduces functionalized hydrogels for musculoskeletal disorder treatment using gene therapy procedures, from gene therapy principles to functionalized hydrogels and applications of hydrogel-mediated gene therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, while remaining challenges are discussed from the perspective of translation in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadsaeid Enayati
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Wei Liu
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Henning Madry
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Rasoul Esmaeely Neisiany
- Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland; Department of Polymer Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar 9617976487, Iran
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, Kirrbergerstr. Bldg 37, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany.
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Goraltchouk A, Lourie J, Hollander JM, Grace Rosen H, Fujishiro AA, Luppino F, Zou K, Seregin A. Development and characterization of a first-in-class adjustable-dose gene therapy system. Gene 2024; 919:148500. [PMID: 38663689 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148500] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite significant potential, gene therapy has been relegated to the treatment of rare diseases, due in part to an inability to adjust dosage following initial administration. Other significant constraints include cost, specificity, antigenicity, and systemic toxicity of current generation technologies. To overcome these challenges, we developed a first-in-class adjustable-dose gene therapy system, with optimized biocompatibility, localization, durability, and cost. METHODS A lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery system was developed and characterized by dynamic light scattering for size, zeta potential, and polydispersity. Cytocompatibility and transfection efficiency were optimized in vitro using primary human adipocytes and preadipocytes. Durability, immunogenicity, and adjustment of expression were evaluated in C57BL/6 and B6 albino mice using in vivo bioluminescence imaging. Biodistribution was assessed by qPCR and immunohistochemistry; therapeutic protein expression was quantified by ELISA. RESULTS Following LNP optimization, in vitro transfection efficiency of primary human adipocytes reached 81.3 % ± 8.3 % without compromising cytocompatibility. Critical physico-chemical properties of the system (size, zeta potential, polydispersity) remained stable over a broad range of genetic cassette sizes (1,871-6,203 bp). Durable expression was observed in vivo over 6 months, localizing to subcutaneous adipose tissues at the injection site with no detectable transgene in the liver, heart, spleen, or kidney. Gene expression was adjustable using several physical and pharmacological approaches, including cryolipolysis, focused ultrasound, and pharmacologically inducible apoptosis. The ability of transfected adipocytes to express therapeutic transgenes ranging from peptides to antibodies, at potentially clinically relevant levels, was confirmed in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION We report the development of a novel, low-cost therapeutic platform, designed to enable the replacement of subcutaneously administered protein treatments with a single-injection, adjustable-dose gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Goraltchouk
- Remedium Bio, Inc. 1116 Great Plain Ave, Suite 203, Needham, MA 02492, United States of America
| | - Jared Lourie
- Department of Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Judith M Hollander
- Remedium Bio, Inc. 1116 Great Plain Ave, Suite 203, Needham, MA 02492, United States of America
| | - H Grace Rosen
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Atsutaro A Fujishiro
- Department of Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Francesco Luppino
- Remedium Bio, Inc. 1116 Great Plain Ave, Suite 203, Needham, MA 02492, United States of America
| | - Kai Zou
- Department of Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125, United States of America
| | - Alexey Seregin
- Remedium Bio, Inc. 1116 Great Plain Ave, Suite 203, Needham, MA 02492, United States of America.
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5
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Leandro K, Rufino-Ramos D, Breyne K, Di Ianni E, Lopes SM, Jorge Nobre R, Kleinstiver BP, Perdigão PRL, Breakefield XO, Pereira de Almeida L. Exploring the potential of cell-derived vesicles for transient delivery of gene editing payloads. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 211:115346. [PMID: 38849005 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115346] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Gene editing technologies have the potential to correct genetic disorders by modifying, inserting, or deleting specific DNA sequences or genes, paving the way for a new class of genetic therapies. While gene editing tools continue to be improved to increase their precision and efficiency, the limited efficacy of in vivo delivery remains a major hurdle for clinical use. An ideal delivery vehicle should be able to target a sufficient number of diseased cells in a transient time window to maximize on-target editing and mitigate off-target events and immunogenicity. Here, we review major advances in novel delivery platforms based on cell-derived vesicles - extracellular vesicles and virus-like particles - for transient delivery of gene editing payloads. We discuss major findings regarding packaging, in vivo biodistribution, therapeutic efficacy, and safety concerns of cell-derived vesicles delivery of gene editing cargos and their potential for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Leandro
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB - Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; GeneT - Gene Therapy Center of Excellence Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - David Rufino-Ramos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB - Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; GeneT - Gene Therapy Center of Excellence Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Genomic Medicine and Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Koen Breyne
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology and Center for Molecular Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Emilio Di Ianni
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology and Center for Molecular Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Sara M Lopes
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB - Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; GeneT - Gene Therapy Center of Excellence Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Jorge Nobre
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB - Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; GeneT - Gene Therapy Center of Excellence Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal; ViraVector - Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Benjamin P Kleinstiver
- Center for Genomic Medicine and Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Pedro R L Perdigão
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB - Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; GeneT - Gene Therapy Center of Excellence Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Xandra O Breakefield
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Neurology and Center for Molecular Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Luís Pereira de Almeida
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB - Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; GeneT - Gene Therapy Center of Excellence Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; ViraVector - Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.
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6
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Park A, Lee JY. Adenoviral Vector System: A Comprehensive Overview of Constructions, Therapeutic Applications and Host Responses. J Microbiol 2024:10.1007/s12275-024-00159-4. [PMID: 39037484 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-024-00159-4] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Adenoviral vectors are crucial for gene therapy and vaccine development, offering a platform for gene delivery into host cells. Since the discovery of adenoviruses, first-generation vectors with limited capacity have evolved to third-generation vectors flacking viral coding sequences, balancing safety and gene-carrying capacity. The applications of adenoviral vectors for gene therapy and anti-viral treatments have expanded through the use of in vitro ligation and homologous recombination, along with gene editing advancements such as CRISPR-Cas9. Current research aims to maintain the efficacy and safety of adenoviral vectors by addressing challenges such as pre-existing immunity against adenoviral vectors and developing new adenoviral vectors from rare adenovirus types and non-human species. In summary, adenoviral vectors have great potential in gene therapy and vaccine development. Through continuous research and technological advancements, these vectors are expected to lead to the development of safer and more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anyeseu Park
- The Laboratory of Viromics and Evolution, Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, 54531, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Yoon Lee
- The Laboratory of Viromics and Evolution, Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, 54531, Republic of Korea.
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Kolster M, Sonntag A, Weise C, Correa J, Fuchs H, Walther W, Fernandez-Megia E, Weng A. Broadening the Scope of Sapofection: Cationic Peptide-Saponin Conjugates Improve Gene Delivery In Vitro and In Vivo. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:36095-36105. [PMID: 38970470 PMCID: PMC11261559 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c05846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapies represent promising new therapeutic options for a variety of indications. However, despite several approved drugs, its potential remains untapped. For polymeric gene delivery, endosomal escape represents a bottleneck. SO1861, a naturally occurring triterpene saponin with endosomal escape properties isolated from Saponaria officinalis L., has been described as additive agent to enhance transfection efficiency (sapofection). However, the challenge to synchronize the saponin and gene delivery system in vivo imposes limitations. Herein, we address this issue by conjugating SO1861 to a peptide-based gene vector using a pH-sensitive hydrazone linker programmed to release SO1861 at the acidic pH of the endosome. Nanoplexes formulated with SO1861-equipped peptides were investigated for transfection efficiency and tolerability in vitro and in vivo. In all investigated cell lines, SO1861-conjugated nanoplexes have shown superior transfection efficiency and cell viability over supplementation of transfection medium with free SO1861. Targeted SO1861-equipped nanoplexes incorporating a targeting peptide were tested in vitro and in vivo in an aggressively growing neuroblastoma allograft model in mice. Using a suicide gene vector encoding the cytotoxic protein saporin, a slowed tumor growth and improved survival rate were observed for targeted SO1861-equipped nanoplexes compared to vehicle control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Kolster
- Institut
für Pharmazie, Freie Universität
Berlin, Königin-Luise-Straße 2-4, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Alexander Sonntag
- Institut
für Pharmazie, Freie Universität
Berlin, Königin-Luise-Straße 2-4, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Christoph Weise
- Institut
für Chemie und Biochemie, Freie Universität
Berlin, Thielallee 63, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Juan Correa
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Hendrik Fuchs
- Institut
für Laboratoriumsmedizin, Klinische Chemie und Pathobiochemie, Charité − Universitätsmedizin
Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität
zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin 13353, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Walther
- Experimental
Pharmacology & Oncology Berlin-Buch GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Eduardo Fernandez-Megia
- Centro
Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica
e Materiais Moleculares (CIQUS), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Jenaro de la Fuente s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Alexander Weng
- Institut
für Pharmazie, Freie Universität
Berlin, Königin-Luise-Straße 2-4, Berlin 14195, Germany
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Yin M, Sun H, Li Y, Zhang J, Wang J, Liang Y, Zhang K. Delivery of mRNA Using Biomimetic Vectors: Progress and Challenges. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2402715. [PMID: 39004872 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is an emerging class of therapeutic agents for treating a wide range of diseases. However, due to the instability and low cell transfection rate of naked mRNA, the expression of delivered mRNA in target cells or tissues in vivo requires delivery strategies. Biomimetic vectors hold advantages such as high biocompatibility, tissue specific targeting ability and efficient delivery mechanisms, potentially overcoming challenges faced by other delivery vectors. In this review, biomimetic vector-based mRNA delivery systems are summarized and discuss the possible challenges and prospects of such delivery systems, which may contribute to the progress and application of mRNA-based therapy in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghao Yin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Hanruo Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yanan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jingge Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jinjin Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yan Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kaixiang Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
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9
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Gonzalez-Visiedo M, Herzog RW, Munoz-Melero M, Blessinger SA, Cook-Mills JM, Daniell H, Markusic DM. Viral Vector Based Immunotherapy for Peanut Allergy. Viruses 2024; 16:1125. [PMID: 39066287 PMCID: PMC11281582 DOI: 10.3390/v16071125] [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: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Food allergy (FA) is estimated to impact up to 10% of the population and is a growing health concern. FA results from a failure in the mucosal immune system to establish or maintain immunological tolerance to innocuous dietary antigens, IgE production, and the release of histamine and other mediators upon exposure to a food allergen. Of the different FAs, peanut allergy has the highest incidence of severe allergic responses, including systemic anaphylaxis. Despite the recent FDA approval of peanut oral immunotherapy and other investigational immunotherapies, a loss of protection following cessation of therapy can occur, suggesting that these therapies do not address the underlying immune response driving FA. Our lab has shown that liver-directed gene therapy with an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector induces transgene product-specific regulatory T cells (Tregs), eradicates pre-existing pathogenic antibodies, and protects against anaphylaxis in several models, including ovalbumin induced FA. In an epicutaneous peanut allergy mouse model, the hepatic AAV co-expression of four peanut antigens Ara h1, Ara h2, Ara h3, and Ara h6 together or the single expression of Ara h3 prevented the development of a peanut allergy. Since FA patients show a reduction in Treg numbers and/or function, we believe our approach may address this unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Gonzalez-Visiedo
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA (M.M.-M.); (S.A.B.); (J.M.C.-M.)
| | - Roland W. Herzog
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA (M.M.-M.); (S.A.B.); (J.M.C.-M.)
| | - Maite Munoz-Melero
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA (M.M.-M.); (S.A.B.); (J.M.C.-M.)
| | - Sophia A. Blessinger
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA (M.M.-M.); (S.A.B.); (J.M.C.-M.)
| | - Joan M. Cook-Mills
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA (M.M.-M.); (S.A.B.); (J.M.C.-M.)
| | - Henry Daniell
- Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - David M. Markusic
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA (M.M.-M.); (S.A.B.); (J.M.C.-M.)
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10
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Zhao F, Wang J, Zhang Y, Hu J, Li C, Liu S, Li R, Du R. In vivo Fate of Targeted Drug Delivery Carriers. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:6895-6929. [PMID: 39005963 PMCID: PMC11246094 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s465959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
This review aimed to systematically investigate the intracellular and subcellular fate of various types of targeting carriers. Upon entering the body via intravenous injection or other routes, a targeting carrier that can deliver therapeutic agents initiates their journey. If administered intravenously, the carrier initially faces challenges presented by the blood circulation before reaching specific tissues and interacting with cells within the tissue. At the subcellular level, the car2rier undergoes processes, such as drug release, degradation, and metabolism, through specific pathways. While studies on the fate of 13 types of carriers have been relatively conclusive, these studies are incomplete and lack a comprehensive analysis. Furthermore, there are still carriers whose fate remains unclear, underscoring the need for continuous research. This study highlights the importance of comprehending the in vivo and intracellular fate of targeting carriers and provides valuable insights into the operational mechanisms of different carriers within the body. By doing so, researchers can effectively select appropriate carriers and enhance the successful clinical translation of new formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhao
- Engineering Research Center of Modern Preparation Technology of TCM, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Jitong Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Modern Preparation Technology of TCM, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Modern Preparation Technology of TCM, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinru Hu
- Engineering Research Center of Modern Preparation Technology of TCM, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenyang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuainan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs of Beijing, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, People's Republic of China
- Diabetes Research Center of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruixiang Li
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruofei Du
- Engineering Research Center of Modern Preparation Technology of TCM, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
- Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
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11
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Kropf E, Markusic DM, Majowicz A, Mingozzi F, Kuranda K. Complement System Response to Adeno-Associated Virus Vector Gene Therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:425-438. [PMID: 38251650 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.194] [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: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors represent a novel tool for the delivery of genetic therapeutics and enable the treatment of a wide range of diseases. Success of this new modality is challenged, however, by cases of immune-related toxicities that complicate the clinical management of patients and potentially limit the therapeutic efficacy of AAV gene therapy. While significant progress has been made to manage immune-related liver enzyme elevations following systemic AAV delivery in humans, recent clinical trials utilizing high vector doses have highlighted a new challenge to AAV gene transfer-activation of the complement system. While current in vitro models implicate AAV-specific antibodies in the initiation of the classical complement pathway, evidence from in vivo pre-clinical and clinical studies suggests that the alternative pathway also contributes to complement activation. A convergence of AAV-specific, environmental, and patient-specific factors shaping complement responses likely contributes to differential outcomes seen in clinical trials, from priming of the adaptive immune system to serious adverse events such as hepatotoxicity and thrombotic microangiopathy. Research focused on the interplay of patient-specific and AAV-related factors driving complement activation is needed to understand and identify critical components in the complement cascade to target and devise strategies to mitigate vector-related immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Kropf
- Immunology Department, Spark Therapeutics, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - David M Markusic
- Immunology Department, Spark Therapeutics, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anna Majowicz
- Immunology Department, Spark Therapeutics, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Federico Mingozzi
- Immunology Department, Spark Therapeutics, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Klaudia Kuranda
- Immunology Department, Spark Therapeutics, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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12
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Liu F. The science and practice of current environmental risk assessment for gene therapy: a review. Cytotherapy 2024; 26:686-699. [PMID: 38713109 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.04.067] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a fast-growing field showing great potential to treat genetic diseases and cancer. With accelerating gene therapy development and approval, their environment risk assessment (ERA) becomes increasingly important. An ERA is an assessment of the risks to human health and the environment upon exposure to a medicinal product as the result of its release during clinical development or after entering the market. Because ERA is an important component of regulatory submission, drug developers must perform a robust assessment to ensure the safety of unintended persons, animal, plants, microorganisms and environment at large. Global regulations on gene therapy ERA continue to evolve. Gene therapy ERAs are carried out according to general principles as provided in regulatory guidelines for application of clinical trials and marketing authorizations. The current review intends to summarize regulations and content requirements on gene therapy ERA in European Union, the USA and Japan. The approved gene therapy products by EMA and US Food and Drug Administration are analyzed for the critical aspects of their ERAs to provide the current status and practice of gene therapy ERAs by drug developers. For this purpose, the main contents of these gene therapy ERAs are summarized. Critical safety factors of gene therapy ERAs are described. With more experience and knowledge to be accumulated, gene therapy ERAs are expected to be less challenging with commonly used viral vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Liu
- Safe Product Services LLC, Pittsfield, Massachusetts, USA.
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13
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Cao D, Byrne BJ, de Jong YP, Terhorst C, Duan D, Herzog RW, Kumar SRP. Innate Immune Sensing of Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:451-463. [PMID: 38887999 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2024.040] [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: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) based viral vectors are widely used in human gene therapy and form the basis of approved treatments for several genetic diseases. Immune responses to vector and transgene products, however, substantially complicate these applications in clinical practice. The role of innate immune recognition of AAV vectors was initially unclear, given that inflammatory responses early after vector administration were typically mild in animal models. However, more recent research continues to identify innate immune pathways that are triggered by AAV vectors and that serve to provide activation signals for antigen-presenting cells and initiation of adaptive immune responses. Sensing of the AAV genome by the endosomal DNA receptor toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) promotes early inflammatory response and interferon expression. Thus, activation of the TLR9>MyD88 pathway in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) leads to the conditioning of antigen cross-presenting DCs through type I interferon (IFN-I) and ultimately CD8+ T cell activation. Alternatively, pDCs may also promote CD8+ T cell responses in a TLR9-independent manner by the production of IL-1 cytokines, thereby activating the IL-1R1>MyD88 signaling pathway. AAV can induce cytokine expression in monocyte-derived DCs, which in turn increases antibody formation. Binding of AAV capsid to complement components likely further elevates B cell activation. At high systemic vector doses in humans and in non-human primates, AAV vectors can trigger complement activation, with contributions by classical and alternative pathways, leading to severe toxicities. Finally, evidence for activation of TLR2 by the capsid and of additional innate receptors for nucleic acids has been presented. These observations show that AAV vectors can initiate several and likely redundant innate immune pathways resulting in an exaggerated adaptive immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Cao
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Barry J Byrne
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ype P de Jong
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cox Terhorst
- Division of Immunology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dongsheng Duan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Roland W Herzog
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sandeep R P Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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14
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Hamilton AG, Swingle KL, Thatte AS, Mukalel AJ, Safford HC, Billingsley MM, El-Mayta RD, Han X, Nachod BE, Joseph RA, Metzloff AE, Mitchell MJ. High-Throughput In Vivo Screening Identifies Differential Influences on mRNA Lipid Nanoparticle Immune Cell Delivery by Administration Route. ACS NANO 2024; 18:16151-16165. [PMID: 38861479 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c01171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Immune modulation through the intracellular delivery of nucleoside-modified mRNA to immune cells is an attractive approach for in vivo immunoengineering, with applications in infectious disease, cancer immunotherapy, and beyond. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have come to the fore as a promising nucleic acid delivery platform, but LNP design criteria remain poorly defined, making the rate-limiting step for LNP discovery the screening process. In this study, we employed high-throughput in vivo LNP screening based on molecular barcoding to investigate the influence of LNP composition on immune tropism with applications in vaccines and systemic immunotherapies. Screening a large LNP library under both intramuscular (i.m.) and intravenous (i.v.) injection, we observed differential influences on LNP uptake by immune populations across the two administration routes, gleaning insight into LNP design criteria for in vivo immunoengineering. In validation studies, the lead LNP formulation for i.m. administration demonstrated substantial mRNA translation in the spleen and draining lymph nodes with a more favorable biodistribution profile than LNPs formulated with the clinical standard ionizable lipid DLin-MC3-DMA (MC3). The lead LNP formulations for i.v. administration displayed potent immune transfection in the spleen and peripheral blood, with one lead LNP demonstrating substantial transfection of splenic dendritic cells and another inducing substantial transfection of circulating monocytes. Altogether, the immunotropic LNPs identified by high-throughput in vivo screening demonstrated significant promise for both locally- and systemically-delivered mRNA and confirmed the value of the LNP design criteria gleaned from our screening process, which could potentially inform future endeavors in mRNA vaccine and immunotherapy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex G Hamilton
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Kelsey L Swingle
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Ajay S Thatte
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Alvin J Mukalel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Hannah C Safford
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Margaret M Billingsley
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Rakan D El-Mayta
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Xuexiang Han
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Benjamin E Nachod
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Ryann A Joseph
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Ann E Metzloff
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Michael J Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Center for Precision Engineering for Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Institute for RNA Innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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15
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Heier JS, Cohen MN, Chao DL, Pepio A, Shiraga Y, Capuano G, Rogers A, Ackert J, Sen HN, Csaky K. Phase 1 Study of JNJ-81201887 Gene Therapy in Geographic Atrophy Secondary to Age-related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmology 2024:S0161-6420(24)00368-3. [PMID: 38909914 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2024.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety and tolerability of a single intravitreal injection of JNJ-81201887 (JNJ-1887) in patients with geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to advanced dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). DESIGN Phase 1, open-label, single-center, first-in-human clinical study. SUBJECTS Adult patients (aged ≥50 years) with GA secondary to AMD in the study-treated eye (treated eye) with a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) Snellen equivalent of 20/200 or worse in the treated eye (20/80 or worse after the first 3 patients), a total GA lesion size between 5 and 20 mm2 (2-8 disc area), and BCVA of 20/800 or better in fellow, non-treated eye were included. METHODS Patients (N=17) were sequentially enrolled into low (3.56×1010 viral genome [vg]/eye; n=3), intermediate (1.07×1011 vg/eye; n=3), and high (3.56×1011 vg/eye; n=11) dose cohorts without steroid prophylaxis and assessed for safety and tolerability over 24 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Safety and tolerability outcomes included assessment of ocular and non-ocular treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) over 24 months. Secondary outcomes included GA lesion size and growth rate. RESULTS Baseline patient characteristics were consistent with the disease under study, and all enrolled patients had foveal center-involved GA. JNJ-1887 was well tolerated across all cohorts, with no dose-limiting AEs. There were no serious or systemic AEs related to study intervention. Overall, 5/17 (29%) patients experienced 6 events of mild ocular inflammation related to study treatment; exam findings in all resolved, and AEs resolved in 4 of 5 patients following topical steroids or observation. One unresolved vitritis event, managed with observation, occurred in a patient with an unrelated fatal AE. No endophthalmitis or new-onset choroidal neovascularization was reported. GA lesion growth rate was similar among all cohorts over 24 months. For treated eyes in the high-dose cohort, GA lesion growth rate showed continued decline through 24 months, with a reduction in mean square root lesion growth from 0.211 mm at months 0-6 to 0.056 mm at months 18-24. CONCLUSIONS All 3 studied doses of JNJ-1887 had a manageable safety profile through 24 months of follow-up. Further investigation of JNJ-1887 for the treatment of GA is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael N Cohen
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Daniel L Chao
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Raritan, NJ
| | - Anthony Pepio
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Raritan, NJ;; Janssen Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yoko Shiraga
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Raritan, NJ
| | - George Capuano
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Raritan, NJ
| | | | - Jessica Ackert
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Raritan, NJ;.
| | - H Nida Sen
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson Company, Raritan, NJ
| | - Karl Csaky
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas, TX
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16
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Boychenko S, Egorova VS, Brovin A, Egorov AD. White-to-Beige and Back: Adipocyte Conversion and Transcriptional Reprogramming. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:790. [PMID: 38931457 PMCID: PMC11206576 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060790] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity has become a pandemic, as currently more than half a billion people worldwide are obese. The etiology of obesity is multifactorial, and combines a contribution of hereditary and behavioral factors, such as nutritional inadequacy, along with the influences of environment and reduced physical activity. Two types of adipose tissue widely known are white and brown. While white adipose tissue functions predominantly as a key energy storage, brown adipose tissue has a greater mass of mitochondria and expresses the uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) gene, which allows thermogenesis and rapid catabolism. Even though white and brown adipocytes are of different origin, activation of the brown adipocyte differentiation program in white adipose tissue cells forces them to transdifferentiate into "beige" adipocytes, characterized by thermogenesis and intensive lipolysis. Nowadays, researchers in the field of small molecule medicinal chemistry and gene therapy are making efforts to develop new drugs that effectively overcome insulin resistance and counteract obesity. Here, we discuss various aspects of white-to-beige conversion, adipose tissue catabolic re-activation, and non-shivering thermogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Boychenko
- Gene Therapy Department, Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (S.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Vera S. Egorova
- Biotechnology Department, Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sirius, Russia
| | - Andrew Brovin
- Gene Therapy Department, Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (S.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Alexander D. Egorov
- Gene Therapy Department, Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (S.B.); (A.B.)
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17
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Giommetti A, Papanikolaou E. Advancements in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Gene Therapy: A Journey of Progress for Viral Transduction. Cells 2024; 13:1039. [PMID: 38920667 PMCID: PMC11201829 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121039] [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: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transduction has undergone remarkable advancements in recent years, revolutionizing the landscape of gene therapy specifically for inherited hematologic disorders. The evolution of viral vector-based transduction technologies, including retroviral and lentiviral vectors, has significantly enhanced the efficiency and specificity of gene delivery to HSCs. Additionally, the emergence of small molecules acting as transduction enhancers has addressed critical barriers in HSC transduction, unlocking new possibilities for therapeutic intervention. Furthermore, the advent of gene editing technologies, notably CRISPR-Cas9, has empowered precise genome modification in HSCs, paving the way for targeted gene correction. These striking progresses have led to the clinical approval of medicinal products based on engineered HSCs with impressive therapeutic benefits for patients. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the collective progress in HSC transduction via viral vectors for gene therapy with a specific focus on transduction enhancers, highlighting the latest key developments, challenges, and future directions towards personalized and curative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Giommetti
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany;
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eleni Papanikolaou
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany;
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece
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18
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Ruythooren F, Moens P. Spinal Muscular Atrophy Scoliosis in the Era of Background Therapies-A Review of the Literature. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3467. [PMID: 38929996 PMCID: PMC11205197 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13123467] [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: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal deformities are considered an important complication of neuromuscular disorders such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA patients typically develop progressive early-onset scoliosis, which is associated with increased functional decline, discomfort, and respiratory dysfunction. Over the second decade of the twenty-first century, a lot has changed in terms of the therapeutic options available to people with SMA. Specifically, the use of pharmaceutical agents such as nusinersen (Spinraza), onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma), and risdiplam (Evrysdi) has dramatically changed the landscape for SMA patients. These medications significantly alter motor- and respiratory functioning, as well as the natural progression of spinal deformities. When evaluating these agents and their impact on the development of scoliosis and motor functioning, it is important to consider the timing of treatment initiation. In patients treated after they had already developed symptoms, a shift of phenotype to a less severe subtype has been observed. This results in a delay in the onset of scoliosis for the less severe SMA types and an increase in early-onset scoliosis for the severe types in patients who would typically not live to develop scoliosis. Patients who receive treatment before they develop symptoms achieve almost normal motor functioning and will likely have a significant decrease in scoliosis prevalence or at least delay its onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Ruythooren
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven-Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for Orthopaedic Research and Training (IORT), University Hospitals Leuven-Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pierre Moens
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven-Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for Orthopaedic Research and Training (IORT), University Hospitals Leuven-Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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19
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Al-Saadi J, Waldén M, Sandell M, Sohlmér J, Grankvist R, Friberger I, Andersson A, Carlsten M, Chien K, Lundberg J, Witman N, Holmin S. Endovascular transplantation of mRNA-enhanced mesenchymal stromal cells results in superior therapeutic protein expression in swine heart. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101225. [PMID: 38516693 PMCID: PMC10950887 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101225] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Heart failure has a poor prognosis and no curative treatment exists. Clinical trials are investigating gene- and cell-based therapies to improve cardiac function. The safe and efficient delivery of these therapies to solid organs is challenging. Herein, we demonstrate the feasibility of using an endovascular intramyocardial delivery approach to safely administer mRNA drug products and perform cell transplantation procedures in swine. Using a trans-vessel wall (TW) device, we delivered chemically modified mRNAs (modRNA) and mRNA-enhanced mesenchymal stromal cells expressing vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) directly to the heart. We monitored and mapped the cellular distribution, protein expression, and safety tolerability of such an approach. The delivery of modRNA-enhanced cells via the TW device with different flow rates and cell concentrations marginally affect cell viability and protein expression in situ. Implanted cells were found within the myocardium for at least 3 days following administration, without the use of immunomodulation and minimal impact on tissue integrity. Finally, we could increase the protein expression of VEGF-A over 500-fold in the heart using a cell-mediated modRNA delivery system compared with modRNA delivered in saline solution. Ultimately, this method paves the way for future research to pioneer new treatments for cardiac disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Al-Saadi
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- MedTechLabs, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mathias Waldén
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael Sandell
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
- MedTechLabs, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Malvinas väg 10, 114 28 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jesper Sohlmér
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institute, Solnavägen 9, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rikard Grankvist
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ida Friberger
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Agneta Andersson
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mattias Carlsten
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Cell Therapy and Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation, Karolinska Comprehensive Cancer Center, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kenneth Chien
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institute, Solnavägen 9, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Lundberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- MedTechLabs, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nevin Witman
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Staffan Holmin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- MedTechLabs, Stockholm, Sweden
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20
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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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21
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Suriano CM, Kumar N, Verpeut JL, Ma J, Jung C, Dunn CE, Carvajal BV, Nguyen AV, Boulanger LM. An innate immune response to adeno-associated virus genomes decreases cortical dendritic complexity and disrupts synaptic transmission. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1721-1738. [PMID: 38566414 PMCID: PMC11184335 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.03.036] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) allow rapid and efficient gene delivery to the nervous system, are widely used in neuroscience research, and are the basis of FDA-approved neuron-targeting gene therapies. Here we find that an innate immune response to the AAV genome reduces dendritic length and complexity and disrupts synaptic transmission in mouse somatosensory cortex. Dendritic loss is apparent 3 weeks after injection of experimentally relevant viral titers, is not restricted to a particular capsid serotype, transgene, promoter, or production facility, and cannot be explained by responses to surgery or transgene expression. AAV-associated dendritic loss is accompanied by a decrease in the frequency and amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents and an increase in the proportion of GluA2-lacking, calcium-permeable AMPA receptors. The AAV genome is rich in unmethylated CpG DNA, which is recognized by the innate immunoreceptor Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), and acutely blocking TLR9 preserves dendritic complexity and AMPA receptor subunit composition in AAV-injected mice. These results reveal unexpected impacts of an immune response to the AAV genome on neuronal structure and function and identify approaches to improve the safety and efficacy of AAV-mediated gene delivery in the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos M Suriano
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Biology, Montclair State University, 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA; Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Montclair State University, 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA.
| | - Neerav Kumar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Jessica L Verpeut
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Jie Ma
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Caroline Jung
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Connor E Dunn
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Brigett V Carvajal
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Ai Vy Nguyen
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Lisa M Boulanger
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA.
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Trujillo Cubillo L, Gurdal M, Zeugolis DI. Corneal fibrosis: From in vitro models to current and upcoming drug and gene medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115317. [PMID: 38642593 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115317] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are characterised by myofibroblast differentiation, uncontrolled pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, tissue contraction, scar formation and, ultimately tissue / organ dysfunction. The cornea, the transparent tissue located on the anterior chamber of the eye, is extremely susceptible to fibrotic diseases, which cause loss of corneal transparency and are often associated with blindness. Although topical corticosteroids and antimetabolites are extensively used in the management of corneal fibrosis, they are associated with glaucoma, cataract formation, corneoscleral melting and infection, imposing the need of far more effective therapies. Herein, we summarise and discuss shortfalls and recent advances in in vitro models (e.g. transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) / ascorbic acid / interleukin (IL) induced) and drug (e.g. TGF-β inhibitors, epigenetic modulators) and gene (e.g. gene editing, gene silencing) therapeutic strategies in the corneal fibrosis context. Emerging therapeutical agents (e.g. neutralising antibodies, ligand traps, receptor kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides) that have shown promise in clinical setting but have not yet assessed in corneal fibrosis context are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trujillo Cubillo
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mehmet Gurdal
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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23
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Peng J, Zou WW, Wang XL, Zhang ZG, Huo R, Yang L. Viral-mediated gene therapy in pediatric neurological disorders. World J Pediatr 2024; 20:533-555. [PMID: 36607547 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-022-00669-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the broad application of next-generation sequencing, the molecular diagnosis of genetic disorders in pediatric neurology is no longer an unachievable goal. However, treatments for neurological genetic disorders in children remain primarily symptomatic. On the other hand, with the continuous evolution of therapeutic viral vectors, gene therapy is becoming a clinical reality. From this perspective, we wrote this review to illustrate the current state regarding viral-mediated gene therapy in childhood neurological disorders. DATA SOURCES We searched databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, using the keywords "adenovirus vector," "lentivirus vector," and "AAV" for gene therapy, and "immunoreaction induced by gene therapy vectors," "administration routes of gene therapy vectors," and "gene therapy" with "NCL," "SMA," "DMD," "congenital myopathy," "MPS" "leukodystrophy," or "pediatric metabolic disorders". We also screened the database of ClinicalTrials.gov using the keywords "gene therapy for children" and then filtered the results with the ones aimed at neurological disorders. The time range of the search procedure was from the inception of the databases to the present. RESULTS We presented the characteristics of commonly used viral vectors for gene therapy for pediatric neurological disorders and summarized their merits and drawbacks, the administration routes of each vector, the research progress, and the clinical application status of viral-mediated gene therapy on pediatric neurological disorders. CONCLUSIONS Viral-mediated gene therapy is on the brink of broad clinical application. Viral-mediated gene therapy will dramatically change the treatment pattern of childhood neurological disorders, and many children with incurable diseases will meet the dawn of a cure. Nevertheless, the vectors must be optimized for better safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Research Center for Chidren Neurodevelopmental disablities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Wei-Wei Zou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Lei Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhi-Guo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ran Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Research Center for Chidren Neurodevelopmental disablities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
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24
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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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25
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Kuznetsova VS, Vasilyev AV, Bukharova TB, Nedorubova IA, Goldshtein DV, Popov VK, Kulakov AA. Application of BMP-2 and its gene delivery vehicles in dentistry. Saudi Dent J 2024; 36:855-862. [PMID: 38883899 PMCID: PMC11178965 DOI: 10.1016/j.sdentj.2024.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The restoration of bone defects resulting from tooth loss, periodontal disease, severe trauma, tumour resection and congenital malformations is a crucial task in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. Growth factor- and gene-activated bone graft substitutes can be used instead of traditional materials to solve these problems. New materials will overcome the low efficacy and difficulties associated with the use of traditional bone substitutes in complex situations. One of the most well-studied active components for bone graft substitutes is bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), which has strong osteoinductive properties. The aim of this review was to examine the use of BMP-2 protein and gene therapy for bone regeneration in the oral and maxillofacial region and to discuss its future use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeriya Sergeevna Kuznetsova
- Central Research Institute of Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery, Moscow, Russia
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey Vyacheslavovich Vasilyev
- Central Research Institute of Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery, Moscow, Russia
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | | | - Vladimir Karpovich Popov
- Federal Scientific Research Centre "Crystallography and Photonics", Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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26
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Wysor SK, Marcus RK. In-line coupling of capillary-channeled polymer fiber columns with optical absorbance and multi-angle light scattering detection for the isolation and characterization of exosomes. Anal Bioanal Chem 2024; 416:3325-3333. [PMID: 38592443 PMCID: PMC11106132 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-024-05283-z] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have garnered much interest due to their fundamental role in intracellular communication and their potential utility in clinical diagnostics and as biotherapeutic vectors. Of particular relevance is the subset of EVs referred to as exosomes, ranging in size from 30 to 150 nm, which contain incredible amounts of information about their cell of origin, which can be used to track the progress of disease. As a complementary action, exosomes can be engineered with therapeutic cargo to selectively target diseases. At present, the lack of highly efficient methods of isolation/purification of exosomes from diverse biofluids, plants, and cell cultures is a major bottleneck in the fundamental biochemistry, clinical analysis, and therapeutic applications. Equally impactful, the lack of effective in-line means of detection/characterization of isolate populations, including concentration and sizing, is limiting in the applications. The method presented here couples hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) performed on polyester capillary-channeled polymer (C-CP) fiber columns followed by in-line optical absorbance and multi-angle light scattering (MALS) detection for the isolation and characterization of EVs, in this case present in the supernatant of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell cultures. Excellent correlation was observed between the determined particle concentrations for the two detection methods. C-CP fiber columns provide a low-cost platform (< $5 per column) for the isolation of exosomes in a 15-min workflow, with complementary absorbance and MALS detection providing very high-quality particle concentration and sizing information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Wysor
- Department of Chemistry, Biosystems Research Complex, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634-0973, USA
| | - R Kenneth Marcus
- Department of Chemistry, Biosystems Research Complex, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634-0973, USA.
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27
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Xu K, Zhang Q, Zhu D, Jiang Z. Hydrogels in Gene Delivery Techniques for Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering. Macromol Biosci 2024; 24:e2300577. [PMID: 38265144 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300577] [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: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogels are 3D networks swollen with water. They are biocompatible, strong, and moldable and are emerging as a promising biomedical material for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering to deliver therapeutic genes. The excellent natural extracellular matrix simulation properties of hydrogels enable them to be co-cultured with cells or enhance the expression of viral or non-viral vectors. Its biocompatibility, high strength, and degradation performance also make the action process of carriers in tissues more ideal, making it an ideal biomedical material. It has been shown that hydrogel-based gene delivery technologies have the potential to play therapy-relevant roles in organs such as bone, cartilage, nerve, skin, reproductive organs, and liver in animal experiments and preclinical trials. This paper reviews recent articles on hydrogels in gene delivery and explains the manufacture, applications, developmental timeline, limitations, and future directions of hydrogel-based gene delivery techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexing Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qinmeng Zhang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Danji Zhu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Zhiwei Jiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
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28
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Willimann M, Tiyaboonchai A, Adachi K, Li B, Waldburger L, Nakai H, Grompe M, Thöny B. AAV Capsid Screening for Translational Pig Research Using a Mouse Xenograft Liver Model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.29.596409. [PMID: 38853940 PMCID: PMC11160762 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.29.596409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
In gene therapy, delivery vectors are a key component for successful gene delivery and safety, based on which adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) gained popularity in particular for the liver, but also for other organs. Traditionally, rodents have been used as animal models to develop and optimize treatments, but species and organ specific tropism of AAV desire large animal models more closely related to humans for preclinical in-depth studies. Relevant AAV variants with the potential for clinical translation in liver gene therapy were previously evolved in vivo in a xenogeneic mouse model transplanted with human hepatocytes. Here, we selected and evaluated efficient AAV capsids using chimeric mice with a >90% xenografted pig hepatocytes. The pig is a valuable preclinical model for therapy studies due to its anatomic and immunological similarities to humans. Using a DNA-barcoded recombinant AAV library containing 47 different capsids and subsequent Illumina sequencing of barcodes in the AAV vector genome DNA and transcripts in the porcine hepatocytes, we found the AAVLK03 and AAVrh20 capsid to be the most efficient delivery vectors regarding transgene expression in porcine hepatocytes. In attempting to validate these findings with primary porcine hepatocytes, we observed capsid-specific differences in cell entry and transgene expression efficiency where the AAV2, AAVAnc80, and AAVDJ capsids showed superior efficiency to AAVLK03 and AAVrh20. This work highlights intricacies of in vitro testing with primary hepatocytes and the requirements for suitable pre-clinical animal models but suggests the chimeric mouse to be a valuable model to predict AAV capsids to transduce porcine hepatocytes efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Willimann
- University Children's Hospital Zurich, Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Amita Tiyaboonchai
- Oregon Health & Science University, Stem Cell Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Kei Adachi
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Molecular & Medical Genetics, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Bin Li
- Oregon Health & Science University, Stem Cell Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Lea Waldburger
- University Children's Hospital Zurich, Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hiroyuki Nakai
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Molecular & Medical Genetics, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Markus Grompe
- Oregon Health & Science University, Stem Cell Center, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Beat Thöny
- University Children's Hospital Zurich, Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, Zurich, Switzerland
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29
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Prasher P, Sharma M, Agarwal V, Singh SK, Gupta G, Dureja H, Dua K. Cationic cycloamylose based nucleic acid nanocarriers. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 395:111000. [PMID: 38614318 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111000] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Nucleic acid delivery by viral and non-viral methods has been a cornerstone for the contemporary gene therapy aimed at correcting the defective genes, replacing of the missing genes, or downregulating the expression of anomalous genes is highly desirable for the management of various diseases. Ostensibly, it becomes paramount for the delivery vectors to intersect the biological barriers for accessing their destined site within the cellular environment. However, the lipophilic nature of biological membranes and their potential to limit the entry of large sized, charged, hydrophilic molecules thus presenting a sizeable challenge for the cellular integration of negatively charged nucleic acids. Furthermore, the susceptibility of nucleic acids towards the degrading enzymes (nucleases) in the lysosomes present in cytoplasm is another matter of concern for their cellular and nuclear delivery. Hence, there is a pressing need for the identification and development of cationic delivery systems which encapsulate the cargo nucleic acids where the charge facilitates their cellular entry by evading the membrane barriers, and the encapsulation shields them from the enzymatic attack in cytoplasm. Cycloamylose bearing a closed loop conformation presents a robust candidature in this regard owing to its remarkable encapsulating tendency towards nucleic acids including siRNA, CpG DNA, and siRNA. The presence of numerous hydroxyl groups on the cycloamylose periphery provides sites for its chemical modification for the introduction of cationic groups, including spermine, (3-Chloro-2 hydroxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride (Q188), and diethyl aminoethane (DEAE). The resulting cationic cycloamylose possesses a remarkable transfection efficiency and provides stability to cargo oligonucleotides against endonucleases, in addition to modulating the undesirable side effects such as unwanted immune stimulation. Cycloamylose is known to interact with the cell membranes where they release certain membrane components such as phospholipids and cholesterol thereby resulting in membrane destabilization and permeabilization. Furthermore, cycloamylose derivatives also serve as formulation excipients for improving the efficiency of other gene delivery systems. This review delves into the various vector and non-vector-based gene delivery systems, their advantages, and limitations, eventually leading to the identification of cycloamylose as an ideal candidate for nucleic acid delivery. The synthesis of cationic cycloamylose is briefly discussed in each section followed by its application for specific delivery/transfection of a particular nucleic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parteek Prasher
- Department of Chemistry, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Energy Acres, Dehradun, 248007, India.
| | - Mousmee Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, 248007, India
| | - Vipul Agarwal
- Cluster for Advanced Macromolecular Design (CAMD), School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Center in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Sunway City, Malaysia
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, 248007, India; Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Harish Dureja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 124001, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Center in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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30
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Poudel BH, Fletcher S, Wilton SD, Aung-Htut M. Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2B (LGMD2B): Diagnosis and Therapeutic Possibilities. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5572. [PMID: 38891760 PMCID: PMC11171558 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115572] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysferlin is a large transmembrane protein involved in critical cellular processes including membrane repair and vesicle fusion. Mutations in the dysferlin gene (DYSF) can result in rare forms of muscular dystrophy; Miyoshi myopathy; limb girdle muscular dystrophy type 2B (LGMD2B); and distal myopathy. These conditions are collectively known as dysferlinopathies and are caused by more than 600 mutations that have been identified across the DYSF gene to date. In this review, we discuss the key molecular and clinical features of LGMD2B, the causative gene DYSF, and the associated dysferlin protein structure. We also provide an update on current approaches to LGMD2B diagnosis and advances in drug development, including splice switching antisense oligonucleotides. We give a brief update on clinical trials involving adeno-associated viral gene therapy and the current progress on CRISPR/Cas9 mediated therapy for LGMD2B, and then conclude by discussing the prospects of antisense oligomer-based intervention to treat selected mutations causing dysferlinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bal Hari Poudel
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia; (B.H.P.); (S.F.); (S.D.W.)
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Central Department of Biotechnology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu 44618, Nepal
| | - Sue Fletcher
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia; (B.H.P.); (S.F.); (S.D.W.)
| | - Steve D. Wilton
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia; (B.H.P.); (S.F.); (S.D.W.)
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - May Aung-Htut
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia; (B.H.P.); (S.F.); (S.D.W.)
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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Reddy AJ, Herschl MH, Geng X, Kolli S, Lu AX, Kumar A, Hsu PD, Levine S, Ioannidis NM. Strategies for effectively modelling promoter-driven gene expression using transfer learning. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.02.24.529941. [PMID: 36909524 PMCID: PMC10002662 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.24.529941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
The ability to deliver genetic cargo to human cells is enabling rapid progress in molecular medicine, but designing this cargo for precise expression in specific cell types is a major challenge. Expression is driven by regulatory DNA sequences within short synthetic promoters, but relatively few of these promoters are cell-type-specific. The ability to design cell-type-specific promoters using model-based optimization would be impactful for research and therapeutic applications. However, models of expression from short synthetic promoters (promoter-driven expression) are lacking for most cell types due to insufficient training data in those cell types. Although there are many large datasets of both endogenous expression and promoter-driven expression in other cell types, which provide information that could be used for transfer learning, transfer strategies remain largely unexplored for predicting promoter-driven expression. Here, we propose a variety of pretraining tasks, transfer strategies, and model architectures for modelling promoter-driven expression. To thoroughly evaluate various methods, we propose two benchmarks that reflect data-constrained and large dataset settings. In the data-constrained setting, we find that pretraining followed by transfer learning is highly effective, improving performance by 24-27%. In the large dataset setting, transfer learning leads to more modest gains, improving performance by up to 2%. We also propose the best architecture to model promoter-driven expression when training from scratch. The methods we identify are broadly applicable for modelling promoter-driven expression in understudied cell types, and our findings will guide the choice of models that are best suited to designing promoters for gene delivery applications using model-based optimization. Our code and data are available at https://github.com/anikethjr/promoter_models.
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32
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Scherer D, Burger M, Leroux JC. Revival of Bioengineered Proteins as Carriers for Nucleic Acids. Bioconjug Chem 2024; 35:561-566. [PMID: 38621363 PMCID: PMC11099893 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- David Scherer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Michael Burger
- Institute of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Christophe Leroux
- Institute of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
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33
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Thanaskody K, Natashah FN, Nordin F, Kamarul Zaman WSW, Tye GJ. Designing molecules: directing stem cell differentiation. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1396405. [PMID: 38803845 PMCID: PMC11129639 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1396405] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Stem cells have been widely applied in regenerative and therapeutic medicine for their unique regenerative properties. Although much research has shown their potential, it remains tricky in directing stem cell differentiation. The advancement of genetic and therapeutic technologies, however, has facilitated this issue through development of design molecules. These molecules are designed to overcome the drawbacks previously faced, such as unexpected differentiation outcomes and insufficient migration of endogenous or exogenous MSCs. Here, we introduced aptamer, bacteriophage, and biological vectors as design molecules and described their characteristics. The methods of designing/developing discussed include various Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) procedures, in silico approaches, and non-SELEX methods for aptamers, and genetic engineering methods such as homologous recombination, Bacteriophage Recombineering of Electroporated DNA (BRED), Bacteriophage Recombineering with Infectious Particles (BRIP), and genome rebooting for bacteriophage. For biological vectors, methods such as alternate splicing, multiple promoters, internal ribosomal entry site, CRISPR-Cas9 system and Cre recombinase mediated recombination were used to design viral vectors, while non-viral vectors like exosomes are generated through parental cell-based direct engineering. Besides that, we also discussed the pros and cons, and applications of each design molecule in directing stem cell differentiation to illustrate their great potential in stem cells research. Finally, we highlighted some safety and efficacy concerns to be considered for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalaiselvaan Thanaskody
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (CTERM), Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fajriyah Nur Natashah
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (CTERM), Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fazlina Nordin
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (CTERM), Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wan Safwani Wan Kamarul Zaman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre for Innovation in Medical Engineering (CIME), Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Gee Jun Tye
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Malaysia
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34
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Taibi T, Cheon S, Perna F, Vu LP. mRNA-based therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. Mol Ther 2024:S1525-0016(24)00299-5. [PMID: 38702886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.04.035] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In the rapidly evolving landscape of medical research, the emergence of RNA-based therapeutics is paradigm shifting. It is mainly driven by the molecular adaptability and capacity to provide precision in targeting. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic crisis underscored the effectiveness of the mRNA therapeutic development platform and brought it to the forefront of RNA-based interventions. These RNA-based therapeutic approaches can reshape gene expression, manipulate cellular functions, and correct the aberrant molecular processes underlying various diseases. The new technologies hold the potential to engineer and deliver tailored therapeutic agents to tackle genetic disorders, cancers, and infectious diseases in a highly personalized and precisely tuned manner. The review discusses the most recent advancements in the field of mRNA therapeutics for cancer treatment, with a focus on the features of the most utilized RNA-based therapeutic interventions, current pre-clinical and clinical developments, and the remaining challenges in delivery strategies, effectiveness, and safety considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilelli Taibi
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Interdisciplinary Oncology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sehyun Cheon
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fabiana Perna
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Ly P Vu
- Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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35
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Nykänen AI, Keshavjee S, Liu M. Creating superior lungs for transplantation with next-generation gene therapy during ex vivo lung perfusion. J Heart Lung Transplant 2024; 43:838-848. [PMID: 38310996 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2024.01.016] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Engineering donor organs to better tolerate the harmful non-immunological and immunological responses inherently related to solid organ transplantation would improve transplant outcomes. Our enhanced knowledge of ischemia-reperfusion injury, alloimmune responses and pathological fibroproliferation after organ transplantation, and the advanced toolkit available for gene therapies, have brought this goal closer to clinical reality. Ex vivo organ perfusion has evolved rapidly especially in the field of lung transplantation, where clinicians routinely use ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) to confirm the quality of marginal donor lungs before transplantation, enabling safe transplantation of organs originally considered unusable. EVLP would also be an attractive platform to deliver gene therapies, as treatments could be administered to an isolated organ before transplantation, thereby providing a window for sophisticated organ engineering while minimizing off-target effects to the recipient. Here, we review the status of lung transplant first-generation gene therapies that focus on inducing transgene expression in the target cells. We also highlight recent advances in next-generation gene therapies, that enable gene editing and epigenetic engineering, that could be used to permanently change the donor organ genome and to induce widespread transcriptional gene expression modulation in the donor lung. In a future vision, dedicated organ repair and engineering centers will use gene editing and epigenetic engineering, to not only increase the donor organ pool, but to create superior organs that will function better and longer in the recipient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti I Nykänen
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Shaf Keshavjee
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mingyao Liu
- Latner Thoracic Research Laboratories, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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36
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Dhole S, Mahakalkar C. Advancements and Innovations in the Surgical Management of Sacrococcygeal Pilonidal Sinus: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e61141. [PMID: 38933617 PMCID: PMC11200306 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61141] [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: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus (SPS) is a common condition characterized by the formation of a sinus tract or cavity in the sacrococcygeal region, often containing hair and debris. Surgical management plays a crucial role in its treatment due to its chronic and recurrent nature. This comprehensive review explores the advancements and innovations in the surgical management of SPS. The review begins with an overview of the historical perspective, anatomy, and pathophysiology of the condition, followed by a discussion of current surgical techniques, including conventional excision, flap procedures, and minimally invasive approaches. Recent advancements, such as laser therapy, radiological guidance techniques, and robotic-assisted surgery, are also examined. The key findings from outcomes research are summarized, including postoperative pain management, recurrence rates, and patient satisfaction. The implications for clinical practice are discussed, emphasizing the importance of staying updated on the latest surgical techniques and adopting a personalized approach to treatment. Recommendations for future research are provided, highlighting the need for prospective studies comparing different surgical techniques, as well as research focusing on minimally invasive approaches and predictive models for recurrence risk. Collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and industry partners is essential to drive innovation and improve outcomes for patients with SPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Dhole
- General Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Chanrashekhar Mahakalkar
- General Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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37
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G Popova P, Chen SP, Liao S, Sadarangani M, Blakney AK. Clinical perspective on topical vaccination strategies. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115292. [PMID: 38522725 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115292] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Vaccination is one of the most successful measures in modern medicine to combat diseases, especially infectious diseases, and saves millions of lives every year. Vaccine design and development remains critical and involves many aspects, including the choice of platform, antigen, adjuvant, and route of administration. Topical vaccination, defined herein as the introduction of a vaccine to any of the three layers of the human skin, has attracted interest in recent years as an alternative vaccination approach to the conventional intramuscular administration because of its potential to be needle-free and induce a superior immune response against pathogens. In this review, we describe recent progress in developing topical vaccines, highlight progress in the development of delivery technologies for topical vaccines, discuss potential factors that might impact the topical vaccine efficacy, and provide an overview of the current clinical landscape of topical vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petya G Popova
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 2B9, Canada; Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Sunny P Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 2B9, Canada; Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Suiyang Liao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 2B9, Canada; Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada; Life Science Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Manish Sadarangani
- Vaccine Evaluation Center, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, 950 West 28th Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4H4, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, 4480 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6H 0B3, Canada
| | - Anna K Blakney
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, 2222 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 2B9, Canada; Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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38
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Ball JB, Frank MG, Green-Fulgham SM, Watkins LR. Use of adeno-associated viruses for transgenic modulation of microglia structure and function: A review of technical considerations and challenges. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 118:368-379. [PMID: 38471576 PMCID: PMC11103248 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia play a central role in the etiology of many neuropathologies. Transgenic tools are a powerful experiment approach to gain reliable and specific control over microglia function. Adeno-associated virus (AAVs) vectors are already an indispensable tool in neuroscience research. Despite ubiquitous use of AAVs and substantial interest in the role of microglia in the study of central nervous system (CNS) function and disease, transduction of microglia using AAVs is seldom reported. This review explores the challenges and advancements made in using AAVs for expressing transgenes in microglia. First, we will examine the functional anatomy of the AAV capsid, which will serve as a basis for subsequent discussions of studies exploring the relationship between capsid mutations and microglia transduction efficacy. After outlining the functional anatomy of AAVs, we will consider the experimental evidence demonstrating AAV-mediated transduction of microglia and microglia-like cell lines followed by an examination of the most promising experimental approaches identified in the literature. Finally, technical limitations will be considered in future applications of AAV experimental approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayson B Ball
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Matthew G Frank
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Suzanne M Green-Fulgham
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Linda R Watkins
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, and the Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
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39
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Piñón Hofbauer J, Guttmann-Gruber C, Wally V, Sharma A, Gratz IK, Koller U. Challenges and progress related to gene editing in rare skin diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115294. [PMID: 38527624 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115294] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Genodermatoses represent a large group of inherited skin disorders encompassing clinically-heterogeneous conditions that manifest in the skin and other organs. Depending on disease variant, associated clinical manifestations and secondary complications can severely impact patients' quality of life and currently available treatments are transient and not curative. Multiple emerging approaches using CRISPR-based technologies offer promising prospects for therapy. Here, we explore current advances and challenges related to gene editing in rare skin diseases, including different strategies tailored to mutation type and structural organization of the affected gene, considerations for in vivo and ex vivo applications, the critical issue of delivery into the skin, and immune aspects of therapy. Against the backdrop of a landmark FDA approval for the first re-dosable gene replacement therapy for a rare genetic skin disorder, gene editing approaches are inching closer to the clinics and the possibility of a local permanent cure for patients affected by these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefina Piñón Hofbauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christina Guttmann-Gruber
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Verena Wally
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anshu Sharma
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Iris K Gratz
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
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40
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Lane DD, Gottimukkala KSV, Cunningham RA, Jwa S, Cassidy ME, Castelli JMP, Adair JE. Cas9 RNP Physiochemical Analysis for Enhanced CRISPR-AuNP Assembly and Function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.02.586657. [PMID: 38617334 PMCID: PMC11014514 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.02.586657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
CRISPR therapy for hematological disease has proven effective for transplant dependent beta thalassemia and sickle cell anemia, with additional disease targets in sight. The success of these therapies relies on high rates of CRISPR-induced double strand DNA breaks in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC). To achieve these levels, CRISPR complexes are typically delivered by electroporation ex vivo which is toxic to HSPCs. HSPCs are then cultured in stimulating conditions that promote error-prone DNA repair, requiring conditioning with chemotherapy to facilitate engraftment after reinfusion. In vivo delivery by nanocarriers of CRISPR gene editing tools has the potential to mitigate this complexity and toxicity and make this revolutionary therapy globally available. To achieve in vivo delivery, the inherent restriction factors against oligonucleotide delivery into HSPCs, that make ex vivo manipulation including electroporation and stimulation essential, must be overcome. To this end, our group developed a CRISPR carrying gold nanoparticle (CRISPR-AuNP) capable of delivering either Cas9 or Cas12a CRISPRs as ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNP) without compromising HSPC fitness. However, the most commonly used CRISPR, Cas9, demonstrated inconsistent activity in this delivery system, with lower activity relative to Cas12a. Investigation of Cas9 RNP biophysics relative to Cas12a revealed duplex RNA instability during the initial loading onto Au cores, resulting in undetectable Cas9 loading to the particle surface. Here we demonstrate preformation of RNP before loading, coupled with optimization of the loading chemistry and conditions, resulted in 39.6 ± 7.0 Cas9 RNP/AuNP without compromising RNP activity in both in vitro assays and primary human HSPC. The same alterations improved Cas12a RNP/AuNP loading 10-fold over previously reported levels. To achieve particle stability, the reported polyethyleneimine outer coating was altered to include PEGylation and the resulting 2nd generation CRISPR-AuNP demonstrates favorable nanoformulation characteristics for in vivo administration, with a hydrophilic, more neutral nanoparticle surface. Direct treatment of HSPC in vitro showed 72.5 ± 7.37% uptake of 2nd generation CRISPR-AuNP in primary human HSPC, but with endosomal accumulation and low rates of gene editing consistent with low levels of endosomal escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D Lane
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Karthikeya S V Gottimukkala
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Rachel A Cunningham
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shirley Jwa
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Molly E Cassidy
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jack M P Castelli
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer E Adair
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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41
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Mendiola Pla M, Bowles DE. Ex Vivo Gene Therapy in Organ Transplantation: Considerations and Clinical Translation. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:284-297. [PMID: 38131288 PMCID: PMC11044854 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.193] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Ex vivo machine perfusion (EVMP) is rapidly growing in utility during solid organ transplantation. This form of organ preservation is transforming how organs are allocated and expanding the definition of what is considered a suitable organ for transplantation in comparison with traditional static cold storage. All major organs (heart, lung, liver, kidney) have been influenced by this advanced method of organ preservation. This technology also serves as an unprecedented platform for effective administration of advanced therapeutics, including gene therapies, during organ transplantation to optimize and recondition organs ex vivo in an isolated manner. Applying gene therapy interventions through EVMP introduces different considerations and challenges that are unique from gene therapies designed for systemic administration. Considerations involving vector (choice, dose, toxicity), perfusate composition, and perfusion circuit components should be evaluated when developing a gene therapy to administer in this setting. This review explores these aspects and discusses clinical applications in transplantation where gene therapy interventions can be developed relevant to heart, lung, liver, and kidney donor grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Mendiola Pla
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dawn E. Bowles
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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42
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Maina A, Foster GR. Hepatitis after gene therapy, what are the possible causes? J Viral Hepat 2024; 31 Suppl 1:14-20. [PMID: 38606951 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis is a common adverse event following gene therapy for haemophilia, often associated with a loss of transgene expression. Investigating the potential causes and implications of this is crucial for the overall success of treatment. Gene therapy trials using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have demonstrated promising results marked by increases in factor FVIII and FIX levels and reductions in episodes of bleeding. However, hepatocellular injury characterised by elevations in alanine aminotransferases (ALT) has been noted. This liver injury is typically transient and asymptomatic, posing challenges in determining its clinical significance. Proposed causes encompass immune-mediated responses, notably T cell cytotoxicity in response to the AAV vector, direct liver injury from the viral capsid or transcribed protein via the unfolded protein response and pre-existing liver conditions. Liver biopsy data conducted years post-gene therapy infusion has shown sinusoidal infiltration without significant inflammation. The overall safety profile of gene therapy remains favourable with no evidence drug-induced liver injury (DILI) based on Hy's Law criteria. Essential pre-therapy monitoring and identifying patients at high risk of liver injury should involve liver function tests and non-invasive fibroscans, while novel blood-based biomarkers are under exploration. Further research is required to comprehend the mechanisms underlying transaminitis, loss of transgene expression and long-term effects on the liver, providing insights for optimising gene therapy for haemophilia.
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43
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Khawajakhail R, Khan RU, Gondal MUR, Toru HK, Malik M, Iqbal A, Malik J, Faraz M, Awais M. Advancements in gene therapy approaches for atrial fibrillation: Targeted delivery, mechanistic insights and future prospects. Curr Probl Cardiol 2024; 49:102431. [PMID: 38309546 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2024.102431] [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: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) remains a complex and challenging arrhythmia to treat, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. This review explores the evolving landscape of gene therapy for AF, focusing on targeted delivery methods, mechanistic insights, and future prospects. Direct myocardial injection, reversible electroporation, and gene painting techniques are discussed as effective means of delivering therapeutic genes, emphasizing their potential to modulate both structural and electrical aspects of the AF substrate. The importance of identifying precise targets for gene therapy, particularly in the context of AF-associated genetic, structural, and electrical abnormalities, is highlighted. Current studies employing animal models, such as mice and large animals, provide valuable insights into the efficacy and limitations of gene therapy approaches. The significance of imaging methods for detecting atrial fibrosis and guiding targeted gene delivery is underscored. Activation mapping techniques offer a nuanced understanding of AF-specific mechanisms, enabling tailored gene therapy interventions. Future prospects include the integration of advanced imaging, activation mapping, and percutaneous catheter-based techniques to refine transendocardial gene delivery, with potential applications in both ventricular and atrial contexts. As gene therapy for AF progresses, bridging the translational gap between preclinical models and clinical applications is imperative for the successful implementation of these promising approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hamza Khan Toru
- Department of Medicine, King's Mill Hospital, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Malik
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiovascular Analytics Group, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Arham Iqbal
- Department of Medicine, Dow International Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jahanzeb Malik
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiovascular Analytics Group, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Maria Faraz
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiovascular Analytics Group, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Awais
- Department of Cardiology, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
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Paremskaia AI, Kogan AA, Murashkina A, Naumova DA, Satish A, Abramov IS, Feoktistova SG, Mityaeva ON, Deviatkin AA, Volchkov PY. Codon-optimization in gene therapy: promises, prospects and challenges. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1371596. [PMID: 38605988 PMCID: PMC11007035 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1371596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Codon optimization has evolved to enhance protein expression efficiency by exploiting the genetic code's redundancy, allowing for multiple codon options for a single amino acid. Initially observed in E. coli, optimal codon usage correlates with high gene expression, which has propelled applications expanding from basic research to biopharmaceuticals and vaccine development. The method is especially valuable for adjusting immune responses in gene therapies and has the potenial to create tissue-specific therapies. However, challenges persist, such as the risk of unintended effects on protein function and the complexity of evaluating optimization effectiveness. Despite these issues, codon optimization is crucial in advancing gene therapeutics. This study provides a comprehensive review of the current metrics for codon-optimization, and its practical usage in research and clinical applications, in the context of gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia Iu Paremskaia
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna A. Kogan
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasiia Murashkina
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria A. Naumova
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anakha Satish
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ivan S. Abramov
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
- The MCSC named after A. S. Loginov, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sofya G. Feoktistova
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga N. Mityaeva
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrei A. Deviatkin
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Pavel Yu Volchkov
- Federal Research Center for Innovator and Emerging Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Moscow, Russia
- The MCSC named after A. S. Loginov, Moscow, Russia
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Yuan C, Chang S, Zhang C, Dong D, Ding J, Mahdavian AR, Hu Z, Sun L, Tan S. Post cross-linked ROS-responsive poly(β-amino ester)-plasmid polyplex NPs for gene therapy of EBV-associated nasopharyngeal carcinoma. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:3129-3143. [PMID: 38451208 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02926c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the most common tumors in South China and Southeast Asia and is thought to be associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Downregulation of latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) encoded by EBV can reduce the expression of NF-κB and PI3K, induce apoptosis, and inhibit the growth of EBV-related NPC. For targeted cleavage of the Lmp1 oncogene via the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system, a post cross-linked ROS-responsive poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE) polymeric vector was developed for the delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 plasmids both in vitro and in vivo. After composition optimization, the resultant polymer-plasmid polyplex nanoparticles (NPs) showed a diameter of ∼230 nm and a zeta potential of 22.3 mV with good stability. Compared with the non-cross-linked system, the cross-linked NPs exhibited efficient and quick cell uptake, higher transfection efficiency in EBV-positive C666-1 cells (53.5% vs. 40.6%), more efficient gene editing ability against the Mucin2 model gene (Muc2) (17.9% vs. 15.4%) and Lmp1 (8.5% vs. 5.6%), and lower intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. The NPs achieved good tumor penetration and tumor growth inhibition in the C666-1 xenograft tumor model via Lmp1 cleavage, indicating their potential for gene therapy of EBV-related NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caiyan Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
- The First Hospital of Nanchang, Nanchang 330008, China
| | - Shuangyan Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Donghu 169th Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China.
| | - Chong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Dirong Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Donghu 169th Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China.
| | - Jiahui Ding
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Ali Reza Mahdavian
- Polymer Science Department, Iran Polymer and Petrochemical Institute, Tehran 14967, Iran
| | - Zheng Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Donghu 169th Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China.
| | - Lili Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Donghu 169th Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430062, Hubei, China.
| | - Songwei Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
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46
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Akkaya-Ulum YZ, Sen B, Akbaba TH, Balci-Peynircioglu B. InflammamiRs in focus: Delivery strategies and therapeutic approaches. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23528. [PMID: 38441434 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302028r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-protein-coding RNAs which are essential regulators of host genome expression at the post-transcriptional level. There is evidence of dysregulated miRNA expression patterns in a wide variety of diseases, such as autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. These miRNAs have been termed "inflammamiRs." When working with miRNAs, the method followed, the approach to treat or diagnosis, and the selected biological material are very crucial. Demonstration of the role of miRNAs in particular disease phenotypes facilitates their evaluation as potential and effective therapeutic tools. A growing number of reports suggest the significant utility of miRNAs and other small RNA drugs in clinical medicine. Most miRNAs seem promising therapeutic options, but some features associated with miRNA therapy like off-target effect, effective dosage, or differential delivery methods, mainly caused by the short target's sequence, make miRNA therapies challenging. In this review, we aim to discuss some of the inflammamiRs in diseases associated with inflammatory pathways and the challenge of identifying the most potent therapeutic candidates and provide a perspective on achieving safe and targeted delivery of miRNA therapeutics. We also discuss the status of inflammamiRs in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeliz Z Akkaya-Ulum
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Basak Sen
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tayfun Hilmi Akbaba
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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47
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Liao HC, Shen KY, Yang CH, Chiu FF, Chiang CY, Chai KM, Huang WC, Ho HM, Chen YH, Huang MS, Liao CL, Chen HW, Huang MH, Liu SJ. Lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated DNA vaccine robustly induce superior immune responses to the mRNA vaccine in Syrian hamsters. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101169. [PMID: 38187094 PMCID: PMC10767207 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101169] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
DNA vaccines for infectious diseases and cancer have been explored for years. To date, only one DNA vaccine (ZyCoV-D) has been authorized for emergency use in India. DNA vaccines are inexpensive and long-term thermostable, however, limited by the low efficiency of intracellular delivery. The recent success of mRNA/lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has opened a new application for nucleic acid-based vaccines. Here, we report that plasmid encoding a trimeric spike protein with LNP delivery (pTS/LNP), similar to those in Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine, induced more effective humoral responses than naked pTS or pTS delivered via electroporation. Compared with TSmRNA/LNP, pTS/LNP immunization induced a comparable level of neutralizing antibody titers and significant T helper 1-biased immunity in mice; it also prolonged the maintenance of higher antigen-specific IgG and neutralizing antibody titers in hamsters. Importantly, pTS/LNP immunization exhibits enhanced cross-neutralizing activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants and protects hamsters from the challenge of SARS-CoV-2 (Wuhan strain and the Omicron BA.1 variant). This study indicates that pDNA/LNPs as a promising platform could be a next-generation vaccine technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Chun Liao
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Yin Shen
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Hsiang Yang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Feng Chiu
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yi Chiang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Kit Man Chai
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Chun Huang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Min Ho
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hua Chen
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Min-Syuan Huang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Len Liao
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Wei Chen
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsi Huang
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Liu
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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48
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Smith MC, Belur LR, Karlen AD, Erlanson O, Furcich J, Lund TC, Seelig D, Kitto KF, Fairbanks CA, Kim KH, Buss N, McIvor RS. Comparative dose effectiveness of intravenous and intrathecal AAV9.CB7.hIDS, RGX-121, in mucopolysaccharidosis type II mice. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101201. [PMID: 38374962 PMCID: PMC10875268 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101201] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II) is an X-linked recessive lysosomal disease caused by iduronate-2-sulfatase (IDS) deficiency, leading to accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and the emergence of progressive disease. Enzyme replacement therapy is the only currently approved treatment, but it leaves neurological disease unaddressed. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-directed administration of AAV9.CB7.hIDS (RGX-121) is an alternative treatment strategy, but it is unknown if this approach will affect both neurologic and systemic manifestations. We compared the effectiveness of intrathecal (i.t.) and intravenous (i.v.) routes of administration (ROAs) at a range of vector doses in a mouse model of MPS II. While lower doses were completely ineffective, a total dose of 1 × 109 gc resulted in appreciable IDS activity levels in plasma but not tissues. Total doses of 1 × 1010 and 1 × 1011 gc by either ROA resulted in supraphysiological plasma IDS activity, substantial IDS activity levels and GAG reduction in nearly all tissues, and normalized zygomatic arch diameter. In the brain, a dose of 1 × 1011 gc i.t. achieved the highest IDS activity levels and the greatest reduction in GAG content, and it prevented neurocognitive deficiency. We conclude that a dose of 1 × 1010 gc normalized metabolic and skeletal outcomes, while neurologic improvement required a dose of 1 × 1011 gc, thereby suggesting the prospect of a similar direct benefit in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miles C. Smith
- Center for Genome Engineering, Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Lalitha R. Belur
- Center for Genome Engineering, Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Andrea D. Karlen
- Center for Genome Engineering, Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Olivia Erlanson
- Center for Genome Engineering, Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Justin Furcich
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Troy C. Lund
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Davis Seelig
- Comparative Pathology Shared Resource, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55455, USA
| | - Kelley F. Kitto
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Carolyn A. Fairbanks
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | | | - Nick Buss
- REGENXBIO Inc., Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - R. Scott McIvor
- Center for Genome Engineering, Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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49
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Rana J, Herzog RW, Muñoz-Melero M, Yamada K, Kumar SR, Lam AK, Markusic DM, Duan D, Terhorst C, Byrne BJ, Corti M, Biswas M. B cell focused transient immune suppression protocol for efficient AAV readministration to the liver. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101216. [PMID: 38440160 PMCID: PMC10911854 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2024.101216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are used for correcting multiple genetic disorders. Although the goal is to achieve lifelong correction with a single vector administration, the ability to redose would enable the extension of therapy in cases in which initial gene transfer is insufficient to achieve a lasting cure, episomal vector forms are lost in growing organs of pediatric patients, or transgene expression is diminished over time. However, AAV typically induces potent and long-lasting neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against capsid that prevents re-administration. To prevent NAb formation in hepatic AAV8 gene transfer, we developed a transient B cell-targeting protocol using a combination of monoclonal Ab therapy against CD20 (for B cell depletion) and BAFF (to slow B cell repopulation). Initiation of immunosuppression before (rather than at the time of) vector administration and prolonged anti-BAFF treatment prevented immune responses against the transgene product and abrogated prolonged IgM formation. As a result, vector re-administration after immune reconstitution was highly effective. Interestingly, re-administration before the immune system had fully recovered achieved further elevated levels of transgene expression. Finally, this immunosuppression protocol reduced Ig-mediated AAV uptake by immune cell types with implications to reduce the risk of immunotoxicities in human gene therapy with AAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Rana
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Roland W. Herzog
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Maite Muñoz-Melero
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kentaro Yamada
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Sandeep R.P. Kumar
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Anh K. Lam
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - David M. Markusic
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Dongsheng Duan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Cox Terhorst
- Division of Immunology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Barry J. Byrne
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32607, USA
| | - Manuela Corti
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32607, USA
| | - Moanaro Biswas
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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50
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Gholap AD, Kapare HS, Pagar S, Kamandar P, Bhowmik D, Vishwakarma N, Raikwar S, Garkal A, Mehta TA, Rojekar S, Hatvate N, Mohanto S. Exploring modified chitosan-based gene delivery technologies for therapeutic advancements. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129581. [PMID: 38266848 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129581] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
One of the critical steps in gene therapy is the successful delivery of the genes. Immunogenicity and toxicity are major issues for viral gene delivery systems. Thus, non-viral vectors are explored. A cationic polysaccharide like chitosan could be used as a nonviral gene delivery vector owing to its significant interaction with negatively charged nucleic acid and biomembrane, providing effective cellular uptake. However, the native chitosan has issues of targetability, unpacking ability, and solubility along with poor buffer capability, hence requiring modifications for effective use in gene delivery. Modified chitosan has shown that the "proton sponge effect" involved in buffering the endosomal pH results in osmotic swelling owing to the accumulation of a greater amount of proton and chloride along with water. The major challenges include limited exploration of chitosan as a gene carrier, the availability of high-purity chitosan for toxicity reduction, and its immunogenicity. The genetic drugs are in their infancy phase and require further exploration for effective delivery of nucleic acid molecules as FDA-approved marketed formulations soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol D Gholap
- Department of Pharmaceutics, St. John Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Palghar 401404, Maharashtra, India
| | - Harshad S Kapare
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pune 411018, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sakshi Pagar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai 400019, India
| | - Pallavi Kamandar
- Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Marathwada Campus, Jalna 431203, India
| | - Deblina Bhowmik
- Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Marathwada Campus, Jalna 431203, India
| | - Nikhar Vishwakarma
- Department of Pharmacy, Gyan Ganga Institute of Technology and Sciences, Jabalpur 482003, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Sarjana Raikwar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Sagar 470003, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Atul Garkal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad 382481, Gujrat, India
| | - Tejal A Mehta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad 382481, Gujrat, India
| | - Satish Rojekar
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Navnath Hatvate
- Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Marathwada Campus, Jalna 431203, India.
| | - Sourav Mohanto
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Yenepoya Pharmacy College & Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, Karnataka 575018, India
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