1
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Leonard A, Tisdale JF. A new frontier: FDA approvals for gene therapy in sickle cell disease. Mol Ther 2024; 32:264-267. [PMID: 38246166 PMCID: PMC10862012 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Leonard
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - John F Tisdale
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gorur V, Kranc KR, Ganuza M, Telfer P. Haematopoietic stem cell health in sickle cell disease and its implications for stem cell therapies and secondary haematological disorders. Blood Rev 2024; 63:101137. [PMID: 37919142 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101137] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Gene modification of haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is a potentially curative approach to sickle cell disease (SCD) and offers hope for patients who are not eligible for allogeneic HSC transplantation. Current approaches require in vitro manipulation of healthy autologous HSC prior to their transplantation. However, the health and integrity of HSCs may be compromised by a variety of disease processes in SCD, and challenges have emerged in the clinical trials of gene therapy. There is also concern about increased susceptibility to haematological malignancies during long-term follow up of patients, and this raises questions about genomic stability in the stem cell compartment. In this review, we evaluate the evidence for HSC deficits in SCD and then discuss their potential causation. Finally, we suggest several questions which need to be addressed in order to progress with successful HSC manipulation for gene therapy in SCD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vishaka Gorur
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
| | - Kamil R Kranc
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
| | - Miguel Ganuza
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
| | - Paul Telfer
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, E1 2AT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Leonard A, Tisdale JF. Gene therapy for sickle cell disease. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2023; 2023:542-547. [PMID: 38066927 PMCID: PMC10727030 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2023000487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is potentially curable after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or autologous HSCT after ex vivo genetic modification. Autologous HSCT with gene therapy has the potential to overcome many of the limitations of allogeneic HSCT that include the lack of suitable donors, graft-versus-host disease, the need for immune suppression, and the potential for graft rejection. Significant progress in gene therapy for SCD has been made over the past several decades, now with a growing number of clinical trials investigating various gene addition and gene editing strategies. Available results from a small number of patients, some with relatively short follow-up, are promising as a potentially curative strategy, with current efforts focused on continuing to improve the efficacy, durability, and safety of gene therapies for the cure of SCD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John F Tisdale
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ceglie G, Lecis M, Canciani G, Algeri M, Frati G. Genome editing for sickle cell disease: still time to correct? Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1249275. [PMID: 38027257 PMCID: PMC10652763 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1249275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder, due to a single point mutation in the β-globin gene (HBB) leading to multisystemic manifestations and it affects millions of people worldwide. The monogenic nature of the disease and the availability of autologous hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) make this disorder an ideal candidate for gene modification strategies. Notably, significant advances in the field of gene therapy and genome editing that took place in the last decade enabled the possibility to develop several strategies for the treatment of SCD. These curative approaches were firstly based on the correction of disease-causing mutations holding the promise for a specific, effective and safe option for patients. Specifically, gene-editing approaches exploiting the homology directed repair pathway were investigated, but soon their limited efficacy in quiescent HSC has curbed their wider development. On the other hand, a number of studies on globin gene regulation, led to the development of several genome editing strategies based on the reactivation of the fetal γ-globin gene (HBG) by nuclease-mediated targeting of HBG-repressor elements. Although the efficiency of these strategies seems to be confirmed in preclinical and clinical studies, very little is known about the long-term consequences of these modifications. Moreover, the potential genotoxicity of these nuclease-based strategies must be taken into account, especially when associated with high targeting rates. The recent introduction of nuclease-free genome editing technologies brought along the potential for safer strategies for SCD gene correction, which may also harbor significant advantages over HBG-reactivating ones. In this Review, we discuss the recent advances in genome editing strategies for the correction of SCD-causing mutations trying to recapitulate the promising strategies currently available and their relative strengths and weaknesses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ceglie
- Cell and Gene Therapy for Hematological Disorders Unit, Department of Oncology-Hematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Lecis
- Cell and Gene Therapy for Hematological Disorders Unit, Department of Oncology-Hematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Pediatric Unit, Modena University Hospital, Modena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Canciani
- Cell and Gene Therapy for Hematological Disorders Unit, Department of Oncology-Hematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
- Residency School of Pediatrics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Algeri
- Cell and Gene Therapy for Hematological Disorders Unit, Department of Oncology-Hematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Frati
- Cell and Gene Therapy for Hematological Disorders Unit, Department of Oncology-Hematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kaur K, Kennedy K, Liles D. Crizanlizumab in sickle cell disease. Pain Manag 2023. [PMID: 37850353 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2023-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaso-occlusion in sickle cell disease (SCD) leads to a myriad of manifestations driving morbidity and mortality in patients with SCD. Increased leucocyte adhesion and P-selectin expression on platelets and endothelial cells is an inciting event that leads to obstruction of microcirculation by adhesion with rigid sickled red blood cells. Crizanlizumab is a first-in-class monoclonal antibody that inhibits P-selectin and has been shown to decrease the frequency of vaso-occlusive pain crises in patients with SCD in clinical trials. The role of crizanlizumab in other manifestations of SCD still needs further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiranveer Kaur
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Katie Kennedy
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Darla Liles
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Piel FB, Rees DC, DeBaun MR, Nnodu O, Ranque B, Thompson AA, Ware RE, Abboud MR, Abraham A, Ambrose EE, Andemariam B, Colah R, Colombatti R, Conran N, Costa FF, Cronin RM, de Montalembert M, Elion J, Esrick E, Greenway AL, Idris IM, Issom DZ, Jain D, Jordan LC, Kaplan ZS, King AA, Lloyd-Puryear M, Oppong SA, Sharma A, Sung L, Tshilolo L, Wilkie DJ, Ohene-Frempong K. Defining global strategies to improve outcomes in sickle cell disease: a Lancet Haematology Commission. Lancet Haematol 2023; 10:e633-e686. [PMID: 37451304 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3026(23)00096-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric B Piel
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - David C Rees
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, King's College London, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Michael R DeBaun
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt-Meharry Center of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Obiageli Nnodu
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, College of Health Sciences and Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Brigitte Ranque
- Department of Internal Medicine, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris Centre, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Alexis A Thompson
- Division of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Russell E Ware
- Division of Hematology and Global Health Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Miguel R Abboud
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, and Sickle Cell Program, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Allistair Abraham
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Emmanuela E Ambrose
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Biree Andemariam
- New England Sickle Cell Institute, University of Connecticut Health, Connecticut, USA
| | - Roshan Colah
- Department of Haematogenetics, Indian Council of Medical Research National Institute of Immunohaematology, Mumbai, India
| | - Raffaella Colombatti
- Pediatric Oncology Hematology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicola Conran
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Center of Hematology and Hemotherapy (Hemocentro), University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Fernando F Costa
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Center of Hematology and Hemotherapy (Hemocentro), University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Robert M Cronin
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mariane de Montalembert
- Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris Centre, Paris, France
| | - Jacques Elion
- Paris Cité University and University of the Antilles, Inserm, BIGR, Paris, France
| | - Erica Esrick
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anthea L Greenway
- Department Clinical Haematology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville and Department Haematology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ibrahim M Idris
- Department of Hematology, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital/Bayero University Kano, Kano, Nigeria
| | - David-Zacharie Issom
- Department of Business Information Systems, School of Management, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dipty Jain
- Department of Paediatrics, Government Medical College, Nagpur, India
| | - Lori C Jordan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Zane S Kaplan
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Monash Health and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Allison A King
- Departments of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Divisions of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology and Hematology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michele Lloyd-Puryear
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Samuel A Oppong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Akshay Sharma
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Lillian Sung
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leon Tshilolo
- Institute of Biomedical Research/CEFA Monkole Hospital Centre and Official University of Mbuji-Mayi, Mbuji-Mayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Diana J Wilkie
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kwaku Ohene-Frempong
- Division of Hematology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Sickle Cell Foundation of Ghana, Kumasi, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Inam Z, Tisdale JF, Leonard A. Outcomes and long-term effects of hematopoietic stem cell transplant in sickle cell disease. Expert Rev Hematol 2023; 16:879-903. [PMID: 37800996 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2023.2268271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is the only readily available curative option for sickle cell disease (SCD). Cure rates following human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched related donor HSCT with myeloablative or non-myeloablative conditioning are >90%. Alternative donor sources, including haploidentical donor and autologous with gene therapy, expand donor options but are limited by inferior outcomes, limited data, and/or shorter follow-up and therefore remain experimental. AREAS COVERED Outcomes are improving with time, with donor type and conditioning regimens having the greatest impact on long-term complications. Patients with stable donor engraftment do not experience SCD-related symptoms and have stabilization or improvement of end-organ pathology; however, the long-term effects of curative strategies remain to be fully established and have significant implications in a patient's decision to seek therapy. This review covers currently published literature on HSCT outcomes, including organ-specific outcomes implicated in SCD, as well as long-term effects. EXPERT OPINION HSCT, both allogeneic and autologous gene therapy, in the SCD population reverses the sickle phenotype, prevents further organ damage, can resolve prior organ dysfunction in both pediatric and adult patients. Data support greater success with HSCT at a younger age, thus, curative therapies should be discussed early in the patient's life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zaina Inam
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - John F Tisdale
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alexis Leonard
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hamzaoui A, Louhaichi S, Hamdi B. [Lung manifestations of sickle-cell disease]. Rev Mal Respir 2023:S0761-8425(23)00107-9. [PMID: 37059617 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmr.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Sickle-cell disease is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder of hemoglobin that causes systemic damage. Hypoxia is the main actor of sickle-cell disease. It initiates acutely the pathogenic cascade leading to tissue damages that in turn induce chronic hypoxia. Lung lesions represent the major risk of morbidity and mortality. Management of sickle-cell disease requires a tight collaboration between hematologists, intensivists and chest physicians. Recurrent episodes of thrombosis and hemolysis characterize the disease. New therapeutic protocols, associating hydroxyurea, transfusion program and stem cell transplantation in severe cases allow a prolonged survival until the fifth decade. However, recurrent pain, crisis, frequent hospital admissions due to infection, anemia or acute chest syndrome and chronic complications leading to organ deficiencies degrade the patients' quality of life. In low-income countries where the majority of sickle-cell patients are living, the disease is still associated with a high mortality in childhood. This paper focuses on acute chest syndrome and chronic lung manifestations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Hamzaoui
- Pavillon B/LR19SP02, hôpital Abderrahmen-Mami, 2080 Ariana, Tunisie; Faculté de médecine de Tunis, 1006 Tunis, Tunisie.
| | - S Louhaichi
- Pavillon B/LR19SP02, hôpital Abderrahmen-Mami, 2080 Ariana, Tunisie; Faculté de médecine de Tunis, 1006 Tunis, Tunisie
| | - B Hamdi
- Pavillon B/LR19SP02, hôpital Abderrahmen-Mami, 2080 Ariana, Tunisie; Faculté de médecine de Tunis, 1006 Tunis, Tunisie
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Krishnamurti L, Neuberg D, Sullivan KM, Smith S, Eapen M, Walters MC. Enrollment Lessons from a Biological Assignment Study of Marrow Transplantation versus Standard Care for Adolescents and Young Adults with Sickle Cell Disease: Considerations for Future Gene and Cellular Therapy Trials. Transplant Cell Ther 2023; 29:217-221. [PMID: 36270432 PMCID: PMC10539686 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We previously conducted a single-arm feasibility study (STRIDE1) of myeloablative bone marrow transplantation (BMT) in adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). The trial identified donors before entry, enrolled well, and found no unexpected regimen-related toxicity. Although many single-arm studies have been published, there are no controlled trials of either BMT or gene therapy in SCD. Therefore, we designed a comparative trial by biological assignment (available donor versus no donor). This multicenter National Institutes of Health-funded study (Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinical Trials Network 1503; STRIDE2) enrolled patients between 2016 and 2021 at 35 sites. Lagging recruitment led to study closure, and here we report the impediments to accrual. The BMT regimen and entry criteria were from STRIDE1, and 2-year survival was the primary endpoint. To minimize selection bias from prior HLA typing, STRIDE2 excluded individuals with previously identified donors. Accrual was stopped at 69% of target (138 enrolled; assigned 28 with donor, 96 with no donor). Barriers to enrollment included lower than expected frequency of HLA-matched related and unrelated donors; loss of enrollees owing to previously identified donors; conventional care arm dissuading some seeking BMT; challenging short-term endpoints in SCD, including incomplete documentation of sickle pain episodes; state Medicaid (primary insurers of SCD) denial of BMT coverage for adult SCD despite the study having secured Coverage with Evidence Development from the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services; slowed accrual in 2019 to 2021 during the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic; and restriction of BMT resourcing for nonmalignant diseases by academic medical (cancer) centers. Social obstacles and access to BMT centers also limited entry, as did practitioner and participant concerns over suitability, cost, and toxicity. Planning for future controlled trials of curative therapy in SCD and other nonmalignant diseases likely will meet these enrollment challenges. Lessons from this trial may aid the development of future comparative studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmanan Krishnamurti
- Section of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | | | | | - Shannon Smith
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mary Eapen
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Mark C Walters
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, California
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bhoopalan SV, Yen JS, Levine RM, Sharma A. Editing human hematopoietic stem cells: advances and challenges. Cytotherapy 2023; 25:261-269. [PMID: 36123234 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Genome editing of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells is being developed for the treatment of several inherited disorders of the hematopoietic system. The adaptation of CRISPR-Cas9-based technologies to make precise changes to the genome, and developments in altering the specificity and efficiency, and improving the delivery of nucleases to target cells have led to several breakthroughs. Many clinical trials are ongoing, and several pre-clinical models have been reported that would allow these genetic therapies to one day offer a potential cure to patients with diseases where limited options currently exist. However, there remain several challenges with respect to establishing safety, expanding accessibility and improving the manufacturing processes of these therapeutic products. This review focuses on some of the recent advances in the field of genome editing of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells and illustrates the ongoing challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Senthil Velan Bhoopalan
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jonathan S Yen
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rachel M Levine
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Akshay Sharma
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Smutova V, Pará C, Foret MK, Bennamoune N, Hung S, Spickler C, Riffon R, Rowe J, Festin S, Authier S. Non-Clinical Cell Therapy Development Using the NCG Mouse Model as a Test System. Int J Toxicol 2023; 42:232-253. [PMID: 36630195 DOI: 10.1177/10915818221150790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The NCG triple immunodeficient mice on a NOD/Nju background lack functional/mature T, B, and NK cells, and have reduced macrophage and dendritic cell function. This study characterized the NCG mouse model for toxicity, engraftment and tumorigenicity assessments of cell therapies, using CD34+ hHSPC adult mobilized cells with two myeloablation regimens.Mice received sub-lethal irradiation or busulfan and were then injected intravenously with CD34+ hHSPCs (1.0 x 106 cells/mouse) or PBS (control), while positive control animals received 2 x 106 HL-60 cells/mouse. hCD34+ cell donors were treated with the mobilizing agent G-CSF prior to leukapheresis. Following injections, mouse blood samples were collected to assess engraftment rates by flow cytometry with body weights recorded periodically up to 20 weeks post-cell injection. No significant clinical signs or body weight changes were observed. At week 10 post-cell injection, the peripheral blood chimerism of hCD45+ cells was above 20%. While mCD45+ concentration was constant between week 10 and 17 in whole blood samples, hCD45+ concentration and chimerism slightly decreased at week 17. However, chimerism remained above 10%, with busulfan-treated mice presenting higher values. Chimerism was further assessed by quantifying human Alu sequences in blood and multiple organs using qPCR. Alu sequences were most abundant in the spleen and bone marrow, while lowest in the testes. In the positive control group, expected mortalities due to tumorigenesis were observed between days 27 and 40 post-cell injection. Overall, study results may be used to inform study design and potential toxicological endpoints relevant to non-clinical cell therapy development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Camila Pará
- Charles River Laboratories, Laval, QC, Canada
| | | | | | - Selly Hung
- Charles River Laboratories, Laval, QC, Canada
| | | | | | - Jenny Rowe
- Charles River Laboratories, Wilmington, MA, USA
| | | | - Simon Authier
- Charles River Laboratories, Laval, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal, Laval, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Amanat M, Nemeth CL, Fine AS, Leung DG, Fatemi A. Antisense Oligonucleotide Therapy for the Nervous System: From Bench to Bedside with Emphasis on Pediatric Neurology. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2389. [PMID: 36365206 PMCID: PMC9695718 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are disease-modifying agents affecting protein-coding and noncoding ribonucleic acids. Depending on the chemical modification and the location of hybridization, ASOs are able to reduce the level of toxic proteins, increase the level of functional protein, or modify the structure of impaired protein to improve function. There are multiple challenges in delivering ASOs to their site of action. Chemical modifications in the phosphodiester bond, nucleotide sugar, and nucleobase can increase structural thermodynamic stability and prevent ASO degradation. Furthermore, different particles, including viral vectors, conjugated peptides, conjugated antibodies, and nanocarriers, may improve ASO delivery. To date, six ASOs have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in three neurological disorders: spinal muscular atrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and polyneuropathy caused by hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. Ongoing preclinical and clinical studies are assessing the safety and efficacy of ASOs in multiple genetic and acquired neurological conditions. The current review provides an update on underlying mechanisms, design, chemical modifications, and delivery of ASOs. The administration of FDA-approved ASOs in neurological disorders is described, and current evidence on the safety and efficacy of ASOs in other neurological conditions, including pediatric neurological disorders, is reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Man Amanat
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Christina L. Nemeth
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Amena Smith Fine
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Doris G. Leung
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Center for Genetic Muscle Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ali Fatemi
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kassim AA, Leonard A. Debating the Future of Sickle Cell Disease Curative Therapy: Haploidentical Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation vs. Gene Therapy. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11164775. [PMID: 36013014 PMCID: PMC9409766 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11164775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a well-established curative therapy for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) when using a human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched sibling donor. Most patients with SCD do not have a matched sibling donor, thereby significantly limiting the accessibility of this curative option to most patients. HLA-haploidentical HSCT with post-transplant cyclophosphamide expands the donor pool, with current approaches now demonstrating high overall survival, reduced toxicity, and an effective reduction in acute and chronic graft-vs.-host disease (GvHD). Alternatively, autologous genetic therapies appear promising and have the potential to overcome significant barriers associated with allogeneic HSCT, such as donor availability and GvHD. Here the authors each take a viewpoint and discuss what will be the future of curative options for patients with SCD outside of a matched sibling transplantation, specifically haploidentical HSCT vs. gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adetola A. Kassim
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt Meharry Sickle Cell Center of Excellence, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Correspondence: (A.A.K.); or (A.L.)
| | - Alexis Leonard
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20810, USA
- Division of Hematology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, USA
- Correspondence: (A.A.K.); or (A.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Azul M, Vital EF, Lam WA, Wood DK, Beckman JD. Microfluidic methods to advance mechanistic understanding and translational research in sickle cell disease. Transl Res 2022; 246:1-14. [PMID: 35354090 PMCID: PMC9218997 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.03.010] [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: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is caused by a single point mutation in the β-globin gene of hemoglobin, which produces an altered sickle hemoglobin (HbS). The ability of HbS to polymerize under deoxygenated conditions gives rise to chronic hemolysis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and vaso-occlusion. Herein, we review recent findings using microfluidic technologies that have elucidated mechanisms of oxygen-dependent and -independent induction of HbS polymerization and how these mechanisms elicit the biophysical and inflammatory consequences in SCD pathophysiology. We also discuss how validation and use of microfluidics in SCD provides the opportunity to advance development of numerous therapeutic strategies, including curative gene therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Azul
- Department of Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Eudorah F Vital
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Wilbur A Lam
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - David K Wood
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Joan D Beckman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Gene-Addition/Editing Therapy in Sickle Cell Disease. Cells 2022; 11:cells11111843. [PMID: 35681538 PMCID: PMC9180595 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autologous hematopoietic stem cell (HSC)-targeted gene therapy provides a one-time cure for various genetic diseases including sickle cell disease (SCD) and β-thalassemia. SCD is caused by a point mutation (20A > T) in the β-globin gene. Since SCD is the most common single-gene disorder, curing SCD is a primary goal in HSC gene therapy. β-thalassemia results from either the absence or the reduction of β-globin expression, and it can be cured using similar strategies. In HSC gene-addition therapy, patient CD34+ HSCs are genetically modified by adding a therapeutic β-globin gene with lentiviral transduction, followed by autologous transplantation. Alternatively, novel gene-editing therapies allow for the correction of the mutated β-globin gene, instead of addition. Furthermore, these diseases can be cured by γ-globin induction based on gene addition/editing in HSCs. In this review, we discuss HSC-targeted gene therapy in SCD with gene addition as well as gene editing.
Collapse
|
17
|
Leonard A, Tisdale JF, Bonner M. Gene Therapy for Hemoglobinopathies. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2022; 36:769-795. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
18
|
Thuret I, Ruggeri A, Angelucci E, Chabannon C. OUP accepted manuscript. Stem Cells Transl Med 2022; 11:407-414. [PMID: 35267028 PMCID: PMC9052404 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szac007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-thalassemia is one of the most common monogenic disorders. Standard treatment of the most severe forms, i.e., transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) with long-term transfusion and iron chelation, represents a considerable medical, psychological, and economic burden. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from an HLA-identical donor is a curative treatment with excellent results in children. Recently, several gene therapy approaches were evaluated in academia or industry-sponsored clinical trials as alternative curative options for children and young adults without an HLA-identical donor. Gene therapy by addition of a functional beta-globin gene using self-inactivating lentiviral vectors in autologous stem cells resulted in transfusion independence for a majority of TDT patients across different age groups and genotypes, with a current follow-up of multiple years. More recently, promising results were reported in TDT patients treated with autologous hematopoietic stem cells edited with the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-Cas9 technology targeting erythroid BCL11A expression, a key regulator of the normal switch from fetal to adult globin production. Patients achieved high levels of fetal hemoglobin allowing for discontinuation of transfusions. Despite remarkable clinical efficacy, 2 major hurdles to gene therapy access for TDT patients materialized in 2021: (1) a risk of secondary hematological malignancies that is complex and multifactorial in origin and not limited to the risk of insertional mutagenesis, (2) the cost—even in high-income countries—is leading to the arrest of commercialization in Europe of the first gene therapy medicinal product indicated for TDT despite conditional approval by the European Medicines Agency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Thuret
- Department of Pediatric Onco-Hematology, Center for Hemoglobinopathies, La Timone Hospital, Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Annalisa Ruggeri
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Eurocord, Hopital Saint Louis, Paris, France
- EBMT Cellular Therapy and Immunobiology Working Party, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Emanuele Angelucci
- Hematology and Cellular Therapy, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Christian Chabannon
- Corresponding author: Christian Chabannon, MD, PhD, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France. Tel: +33 491 223 441;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kanter J. Gene therapy for sickle cell disease: where we are now? HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2021; 2021:174-180. [PMID: 34889358 PMCID: PMC8791177 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2021000250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The landscape of sickle cell disease (SCD) treatment continues to evolve rapidly, with new disease-modifying therapies in development and potentially curative options on the horizon. Until recently, allogeneic stem cell transplant has been the only proven cure for SCD. Gene therapy is rising to the forefront of the discussion as a potentially curative or highly disease- modifying option for abating the complications of the disease. Understanding the different types of gene therapy in use, the differences in their end points, and their potential risks and benefits will be key to optimizing the long-term use of this therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Kanter
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Demirci S, Leonard A, Essawi K, Tisdale JF. CRISPR-Cas9 to induce fetal hemoglobin for the treatment of sickle cell disease. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2021; 23:276-285. [PMID: 34729375 PMCID: PMC8526756 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing is potentially a curative technique available to all individuals with β-hemoglobinopathies, including sickle cell disease (SCD). Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) inhibits sickle hemoglobin (HbS) polymerization, and it is well described that naturally occurring hereditary persistence of HbF (HPFH) alleviates disease symptoms; therefore, reawakening of developmentally silenced HbF in adult red blood cells (RBCs) has long been of interest as a therapeutic strategy. Recent advances in genome editing platforms, particularly with the use of CRISPR-Cas9, have paved the way for efficient HbF induction through the creation of artificial HPFH mutations, editing of transcriptional HbF silencers, and modulating epigenetic intermediates that govern HbF expression. Clinical trials investigating BCL11A enhancer editing in patients with β-hemoglobinopathies have demonstrated promising results, although follow-up is short and the number of patients treated to date is low. While practical, economic, and clinical challenges of genome editing are well recognized by the scientific community, potential solutions to overcome these hurdles are in development. Here, we review the recent progress and obstacles yet to be overcome for the most effective and feasible HbF reactivation practice using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing as a curative strategy for patients with SCD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selami Demirci
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Alexis Leonard
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Khaled Essawi
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - John F. Tisdale
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Leonard A, Bertaina A, Bonfim C, Cohen S, Prockop S, Purtill D, Russell A, Boelens JJ, Wynn R, Ruggeri A, Abraham A. Curative therapy for hemoglobinopathies: an International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy Stem Cell Engineering Committee review comparing outcomes, accessibility and cost of ex vivo stem cell gene therapy versus allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Cytotherapy 2021; 24:249-261. [PMID: 34879990 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD) are the most common monogenic diseases in the world and represent a growing global health burden. Management is limited by a paucity of disease-modifying therapies; however, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and autologous HSCT after genetic modification offer patients a curative option. Allogeneic HSCT is limited by donor selection, morbidity and mortality from transplant conditioning, graft-versus-host disease and graft rejection, whereas significant concerns regarding long-term safety, efficacy and cost limit the broad applicability of gene therapy. Here the authors review current outcomes in allogeneic and autologous HSCT for transfusion-dependent thalassemia and SCD and provide our perspective on issues surrounding accessibility and costs as barriers to offering curative therapy to patients with hereditary hemoglobinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Leonard
- Division of Hematology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alice Bertaina
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Carmem Bonfim
- Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Division, Hospital Pequeno Principe, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Sandra Cohen
- Université de Montréal and Maisonneuve Rosemont Hospital, Montréal, Canada
| | - Susan Prockop
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Duncan Purtill
- Department of Haematology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Athena Russell
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jaap Jan Boelens
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapies, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robert Wynn
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Annalisa Ruggeri
- Department of Hematology and bone marrow transplantation, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Segrate, Milan, Italy
| | - Allistair Abraham
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, CETI, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Rosanwo TO, Bauer DE. Editing outside the body: Ex vivo gene-modification for β-hemoglobinopathy cellular therapy. Mol Ther 2021; 29:3163-3178. [PMID: 34628053 PMCID: PMC8571174 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome editing produces genetic modifications in somatic cells, offering novel curative possibilities for sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia. These opportunities leverage clinical knowledge of hematopoietic stem cell transplant and gene transfer. Advantages to this mode of ex vivo therapy include locus-specific alteration of patient hematopoietic stem cell genomes, lack of allogeneic immune response, and avoidance of insertional mutagenesis. Despite exciting progress, many aspects of this approach remain to be optimized for ideal clinical implementation, including the efficiency and specificity of gene modification, delivery to hematopoietic stem cells, and robust and nontoxic engraftment of gene-modified cells. This review highlights genome editing as compared to other genetic therapies, the differences between editing strategies, and the clinical prospects and challenges of implementing genome editing as a novel treatment. As the world's most common monogenic disorders, the β-hemoglobinopathies are at the forefront of bringing genome editing to the clinic and hold promise for molecular medicine to address human disease at its root.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tolulope O Rosanwo
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel E Bauer
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA; Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lee BC, Lozano RJ, Dunbar CE. Understanding and overcoming adverse consequences of genome editing on hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Mol Ther 2021; 29:3205-3218. [PMID: 34509667 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) gene therapies have recently moved beyond gene-addition approaches to encompass targeted genome modification or correction, based on the development of zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and CRISPR-Cas technologies. Advances in ex vivo HSPC manipulation techniques have greatly improved HSPC susceptibility to genetic modification. Targeted gene-editing techniques enable precise modifications at desired genomic sites. Numerous preclinical studies have already demonstrated the therapeutic potential of gene therapies based on targeted editing. However, several significant hurdles related to adverse consequences of gene editing on HSPC function and genomic integrity remain before broad clinical potential can be realized. This review summarizes the status of HSPC gene editing, focusing on efficiency, genomic integrity, and long-term engraftment ability related to available genetic editing platforms and HSPC delivery methods. The response of long-term engrafting HSPCs to nuclease-mediated DNA breaks, with activation of p53, is a significant challenge, as are activation of innate and adaptive immune responses to editing components. Lastly, we propose alternative strategies that can overcome current hurdles to HSPC editing at various stages from cell collection to transplantation to facilitate successful clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Byung-Chul Lee
- Translational Stem Cell Biology Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Richard J Lozano
- Translational Stem Cell Biology Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Cynthia E Dunbar
- Translational Stem Cell Biology Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell Disease - Moving from the Bench to the Bedside. Blood 2021; 138:932-941. [PMID: 34232993 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019003776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy as a potential cure for sickle cell disease (SCD) has long been pursued given that this hemoglobin disorder results from a single point mutation. Advances in genomic sequencing, increased understanding of hemoglobin regulation and discoveries of molecular tools for genome modification of hematopoietic stem cells have made gene therapy for SCD possible. Gene addition strategies using gene transfer vectors have been optimized over the last few decades to enable expression of normal or anti-sickling globins as strategies to ameliorate SCD. Many hurdles had to be addressed prior to clinical translation including collection of sufficient stem cells for gene-modification, increasing expression of transferred genes to a therapeutic level and conditioning patients in a safe manner that enabled adequate engraftment of gene-modified cells. The discovery of genome editors that make precise modifications has further advanced the safety and efficacy of gene therapy and a rapid movement to clinical trial has undoubtedly been supported by lessons learned from optimizing gene addition strategies. Current gene therapies being tested in clinical trial require significant infrastructure and expertise given the needs to harvest cells from and administer chemotherapy to patients who often have significant organ dysfunction and that gene-modification takes place ex vivo in specialized facilities. For these therapies to realize their full potential they would need to be portable, safe and efficient making an in-vivo based approach attractive. Additionally, adequate resources for SCD screening and access to standardized care are critically important for gene therapy to be a viable treatment option for SCD.
Collapse
|
25
|
Bonner MA, Morales-Hernández A, Zhou S, Ma Z, Condori J, Wang YD, Fatima S, Palmer LE, Janke LJ, Fowler S, Sorrentino BP, McKinney-Freeman S. 3' UTR-truncated HMGA2 overexpression induces non-malignant in vivo expansion of hematopoietic stem cells in non-human primates. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2021; 21:693-701. [PMID: 34141824 PMCID: PMC8181581 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Vector-mediated mutagenesis remains a major safety concern for many gene therapy clinical protocols. Indeed, lentiviral-based gene therapy treatments of hematologic disease can result in oligoclonal blood reconstitution in the transduced cell graft. Specifically, clonal expansion of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) highly expressing HMGA2, a chromatin architectural factor found in many human cancers, is reported in patients undergoing gene therapy for hematologic diseases, raising concerns about the safety of these integrations. Here, we show for the first time in vivo multilineage and multiclonal expansion of non-human primate HSCs expressing a 3' UTR-truncated version of HMGA2 without evidence of any hematologic malignancy >7 years post-transplantation, which is significantly longer than most non-human gene therapy pre-clinical studies. This expansion is accompanied by an increase in HSC survival, cell cycle activation of downstream progenitors, and changes in gene expression led by the upregulation of IGF2BP2, a mRNA binding regulator of survival and proliferation. Thus, we conclude that prolonged ectopic expression of HMGA2 in hematopoietic progenitors is not sufficient to drive hematologic malignancy and is not an acute safety concern in lentiviral-based gene therapy clinical protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A. Bonner
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | | | - Sheng Zhou
- Experimental Cell Therapeutics Lab, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Zhijun Ma
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cell Therapy, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Jose Condori
- Experimental Cell Therapeutics Lab, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Yong-Dong Wang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Soghra Fatima
- Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Lance E. Palmer
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Laura J. Janke
- Veterinary Pathology Core, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Stephanie Fowler
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Brian P. Sorrentino
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Leukemia after gene therapy for sickle cell disease: insertional mutagenesis, busulfan, both or neither. Blood 2021; 138:942-947. [PMID: 34115136 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021011488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, encouraging data provided long-awaited hope for gene therapy as a cure for sickle cell disease (SCD). Nevertheless, the suspension of the bluebird bio gene therapy trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02140554) after participants developed acute myeloid leukemia/myelodysplastic syndrome (AML/MDS) is concerning. Potential possibilities for these cases include busulfan, insertional mutagenesis, both or neither. Busulfan was considered the cause in the first reported case, as the transgene was not present in the AML/MDS. However, busulfan is unlikely to have contributed to the most recent case. The transgene was present in the patient's malignant cells, indicating they were infused after busulfan treatment. Several lines of evidence suggest an alternative explanation for events in the bluebird bio trial, including that SCD population studies show an increased relative, but a low absolute, risk of AML/MDS. We propose a new hypothesis: after gene therapy for SCD, the stress of switching from homeostatic to regenerative hematopoiesis by transplanted cells drives clonal expansion and leukemogenic transformation of pre-existing premalignant clones, eventually resulting in AML/MDS. Evidence validating our hypothesis will support pre-screening individuals with SCD for pre-leukemic progenitors before gene therapy. Until a viable, safe strategy has been implemented to resume gene therapy in adults with severe SCD, reasonable alternative curative therapy should be considered for children and adults with severe SCD. Currently, open multi-center clinical trials are incorporating nonmyeloablative conditioning, related haploidentical donors, and post-transplantation cyclophosphamide. Preliminary results from these trials appear promising and NIH-sponsored trials are ongoing in pediatric and adult individuals with SCD using this platform.
Collapse
|
27
|
Salinas Cisneros G, Thein SL. Research in Sickle Cell Disease: From Bedside to Bench to Bedside. Hemasphere 2021; 5:e584. [PMID: 34095767 PMCID: PMC8171370 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an exemplar of bidirectional translational research, starting with a remarkable astute observation of the abnormally shaped red blood cells that motivated decades of bench research that have now translated into new drugs and genetic therapies. Introduction of hydroxyurea (HU) therapy, the only SCD-modifying treatment for >30 years and now standard care, was initiated through another clinical observation by a pediatrician. While the clinical efficacy of HU is primarily due to its fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction, the exact mechanism of how it increases HbF remains not fully understood. Unraveling of the molecular mechanism of how HU increases HbF has provided insights on the development of new HbF-reactivating agents in the pipeline. HU has other salutary effects, reduction of cellular adhesion to the vascular endothelium and inflammation, and dissecting these mechanisms has informed bench-both cellular and animal-research for development of the 3 recently approved agents: endari, voxelotor, and crizanlizumab; truly, a bidirectional bench to bedside translation. Decades of research to understand the mechanisms of fetal to adult hemoglobin have also culminated in promising anti-sickling genetic therapies and the first-in-human studies of reactivating an endogenous (γ-globin) gene HBG utilizing innovative genomic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Salinas Cisneros
- Sickle Cell Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Swee Lay Thein
- Sickle Cell Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Old versus new gene therapy for globin disorders. Mol Ther 2021; 29:1933-1934. [PMID: 33961803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
29
|
Doerfler PA, Sharma A, Porter JS, Zheng Y, Tisdale JF, Weiss MJ. Genetic therapies for the first molecular disease. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:146394. [PMID: 33855970 PMCID: PMC8262557 DOI: 10.1172/jci146394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a monogenic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of severe bone pain, multi-organ failure, and early mortality. Although medical progress over the past several decades has improved clinical outcomes and offered cures for many affected individuals living in high-income countries, most SCD patients still experience substantial morbidity and premature death. Emerging technologies to manipulate somatic cell genomes and insights into the mechanisms of developmental globin gene regulation are generating potentially transformative approaches to cure SCD by autologous hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation. Key components of current approaches include ethical informed consent, isolation of patient HSCs, in vitro genetic modification of HSCs to correct the SCD mutation or circumvent its damaging effects, and reinfusion of the modified HSCs following myelotoxic bone marrow conditioning. Successful integration of these components into effective therapies requires interdisciplinary collaborations between laboratory researchers, clinical caregivers, and patients. Here we summarize current knowledge and research challenges for each key component, emphasizing that the best approaches have yet to be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Akshay Sharma
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy
| | | | - Yan Zheng
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - John F. Tisdale
- Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|