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Turuvekere Vittala Murthy N, Vlasova K, Renner J, Jozic A, Sahay G. A new era of targeting cystic fibrosis with non-viral delivery of genomic medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115305. [PMID: 38626860 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115305] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a complex genetic respiratory disorder that necessitates innovative gene delivery strategies to address the mutations in the gene. This review delves into the promises and challenges of non-viral gene delivery for CF therapy and explores strategies to overcome these hurdles. Several emerging technologies and nucleic acid cargos for CF gene therapy are discussed. Novel formulation approaches including lipid and polymeric nanoparticles promise enhanced delivery through the CF mucus barrier, augmenting the potential of non-viral strategies. Additionally, safety considerations and regulatory perspectives play a crucial role in navigating the path toward clinical translation of gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kseniia Vlasova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy at Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Jonas Renner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy at Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Antony Jozic
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy at Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy at Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA.
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2
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de la Fuente IF, Sawant SS, Tolentino MQ, Corrigan PM, Rouge JL. Viral Mimicry as a Design Template for Nucleic Acid Nanocarriers. Front Chem 2021; 9:613209. [PMID: 33777893 PMCID: PMC7987652 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.613209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic nucleic acids hold immense potential in combating undruggable, gene-based diseases owing to their high programmability and relative ease of synthesis. While the delivery of this class of therapeutics has successfully entered the clinical setting, extrahepatic targeting, endosomal escape efficiency, and subcellular localization. On the other hand, viruses serve as natural carriers of nucleic acids and have acquired a plethora of structures and mechanisms that confer remarkable transfection efficiency. Thus, understanding the structure and mechanism of viruses can guide the design of synthetic nucleic acid vectors. This review revisits relevant structural and mechanistic features of viruses as design considerations for efficient nucleic acid delivery systems. This article explores how viral ligand display and a metastable structure are central to the molecular mechanisms of attachment, entry, and viral genome release. For comparison, accounted for are details on the design and intracellular fate of existing nucleic acid carriers and nanostructures that share similar and essential features to viruses. The review, thus, highlights unifying themes of viruses and nucleic acid delivery systems such as genome protection, target specificity, and controlled release. Sophisticated viral mechanisms that are yet to be exploited in oligonucleotide delivery are also identified as they could further the development of next-generation nonviral nucleic acid vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jessica L. Rouge
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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3
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Yadav KS, Upadhya A, Misra A. Targeted drug therapy in nonsmall cell lung cancer: clinical significance and possible solutions-part II (role of nanocarriers). Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2020; 18:103-118. [PMID: 33017541 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2021.1832989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 80-85% of the cases of lung cancer. The conventional therapeutic effective dosage forms used to treat NSCLC are associated with rigid administration schedules, adverse effects, and may be associated with acquired resistance to therapy. Nanocarriers may provide a suitable alternative to regular formulations to overcome inherent drawbacks and provide better treatment modalities for the patient. AREAS COVERED The article explores the application of drug loaded nanocarriers for lung cancer treatment. Drug-loaded nanocarriers can be modified to achieve controlled delivery at the desired tumor infested site. The type of nanocarriers employed are diverse based on polymers, liposomes, metals and a combination of two or more different base materials (hybrids). These may be designed for systemic delivery or local delivery to the lung compartment (via inhalation). EXPERT OPINION Nanocarriers can improve pharmacokinetics of the drug payload by improving its delivery to the desired location and can reduce associated systemic toxicities. Through nanocarriers, a wide variety of therapeutics can be administered and targeted to the cancerous site. Some examples of the utilities of nanocarriers are codelivery of drugs, gene delivery, and delivery of other biologics. Overall, the nanocarriers have promising potential in improving therapeutic efficacy of drugs used in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khushwant S Yadav
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, Svkm's Nmims , Mumbai, India
| | - Archana Upadhya
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, Svkm's Nmims , Mumbai, India
| | - Ambikanandan Misra
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, Svkm's Nmims , Mumbai, India
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4
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Effective PEI-mediated delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 complex for targeted gene therapy. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2018; 14:2095-2102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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5
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Kim G, Piao C, Oh J, Lee M. Self-assembled polymeric micelles for combined delivery of anti-inflammatory gene and drug to the lungs by inhalation. NANOSCALE 2018; 10:8503-8514. [PMID: 29693671 DOI: 10.1039/c8nr00427g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a lung inflammatory disease for which pulmonary delivery of drug and gene could be a useful strategy. In this study, cholesterol-conjugated polyamidoamine (PAM-Chol) was synthesized and characterized as a carrier for combined delivery of anti-inflammatory gene and drug into the lungs by inhalation. The PAM-Chol formed self-assembled micelles in an aqueous solution with a critical micelle concentration of 0.22 mg ml-1. An in vitro transfection assay to L2 lung epithelial cells showed that the PAM-Chol micelle had higher transfection efficiency than lipofectamine and polyethylenimine (25 kDa, PEI25k). As the anti-inflammatory drug, resveratrol was loaded into the cores of the PAM-Chol micelles using the oil-in-water emulsion/solvent evaporation method. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophage cells, resveratrol-loaded PAM-Chol (PAM-Chol/Res) reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, confirming the anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol. In in vitro transfection assays to L2 cells, the PAM-Chol/Res micelles had transfection efficiency similar to that of PAM-Chol. The delivery of resveratrol or the heme oxygenase-1 gene (pHO-1) by inhalation was evaluated in an ALI animal model. Resveratrol delivery using the PAM-Chol/Res micelles inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines in the lungs. pHO-1 delivery using PAM-Chol induced HO-1 expression and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, the highest anti-inflammatory effects were obtained with combined delivery of pHO-1 and resveratrol using the pHO-1/PAM-Chol/Res complex, as demonstrated in cytokine assays and immunohistochemical studies. Therefore, the PAM-Chol micelle is an efficient carrier of resveratrol and pHO-1 into the lungs and could be useful for the treatment of ALI by inhalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyeungyun Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.
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6
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Seok H, Noh JY, Lee DY, Kim SJ, Song CS, Kim YC. Effective humoral immune response from a H1N1 DNA vaccine delivered to the skin by microneedles coated with PLGA-based cationic nanoparticles. J Control Release 2017; 265:66-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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7
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Englert C, Pröhl M, Czaplewska JA, Fritzsche C, Preußger E, Schubert US, Traeger A, Gottschaldt M. d-Fructose-Decorated Poly(ethylene imine) for Human Breast Cancer Cell Targeting. Macromol Biosci 2017; 17. [PMID: 28371343 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.201600502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The high affinity of GLUT5 transporter for d-fructose in breast cancer cells has been discussed intensely. In this contribution, high molar mass linear poly(ethylene imine) (LPEI) is functionalized with d-fructose moieties to combine the selectivity for the GLUT5 transporter with the delivery potential of PEI for genetic material. The four-step synthesis of a thiol-group bearing d-fructose enables the decoration of a cationic polymer backbone with d-fructose via thiol-ene photoaddition. The functionalization of LPEI is confirmed by 2D NMR techniques, elemental analysis, and size exclusion chromatography. Importantly, a d-fructose decoration of 16% renders the polymers water-soluble and eliminates the cytotoxicity of PEI in noncancer L929 cells, accompanied by a reduced unspecific cellular uptake of the genetic material. In contrast, the cytotoxicity as well as the cell specific uptake is increased for triple negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Therefore, the introduction of d-fructose shows superior potential for cell targeting, which can be assumed to be GLUT5 dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Englert
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael Pröhl
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Justyna A Czaplewska
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Carolin Fritzsche
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Preußger
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Ulrich S Schubert
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Anja Traeger
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael Gottschaldt
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743, Jena, Germany
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8
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Abstract
There are many classes of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), with wide-ranging functionalities (e.g., RNA editing, mediation of mRNA splicing, ribosomal function). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) are implicated in a wide variety of cellular processes, including the regulation of gene expression. Incorrect expression or mutation of lncRNAs has been reported to be associated with several disease conditions, such a malignant transformation in humans. Importantly, pivotal players in tumorigenesis and cancer progression, such as c-Myc, may be regulated by lncRNA at promoter level. The function of lncRNA can be reduced with antisense oligonucleotides that sequester or degrade mature lncRNAs. In alternative, lncRNA transcription can be blocked by small interference RNA (RNAi), which had acquired, recently, broad interested in clinical applications. In vivo-jetPEI™ is a linear polyethylenimine mediating nucleic acid (DNA, shRNA, siRNA, oligonucelotides) delivery with high efficiency. Different in vivo delivery routes have been validated: intravenous (IV), intraperitoneal (IP), intratumoral, subcutaneous, topical, and intrathecal. High levels of nucleic acid delivery are achieved into a broad range of tissues, such as lung, salivary glands, heart, spleen, liver, and prostate upon systemic administration. In addition, in vivo-jetPEI™ is also an efficient carrier for local gene and siRNA delivery such as intratumoral or topical application on the skin. After systemic injection, siRNA can be detected and the levels can be validated in target tissues by qRT-PCR. Targeting promoter-associated lncRNAs with siRNAs (small interfering RNAs) in vivo is becoming an exciting breakthrough for the treatment of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Civenni
- Laboratory of Experimental Therapeutics, IOR, Institute of Oncology Research, Via Vela 6, Bellinzona, 6500, Switzerland.
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Tsuchiya Y, Ishii T, Okahata Y, Sato T. Characterization of Protamine as a Transfection Accelerator for Gene Delivery. J BIOACT COMPAT POL 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0883911506070816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Protamine is an FDA-approved compound with a documented safety profile that facilitates efficient plasmid condensation for gene delivery by various types of cationic liposomes. It also improves adenoviral vector-mediated gene transfer as a transfection accelerator. However, there is no consensus as to the mechanism of protamine on gene delivery into cells. To analyze the uptake and subcellular distribution, plasmid and protamine were labeled with FITC and Texas-Red, respectively. Although the uptake of FITC-labeled plasmid/protamine complexes into the cells was the same as that of free FITC-labeled plasmid in HeLa, SOJ and A549 cells, they improved the transfection efficiency by several orders of magnitude. Moreover, we found that protamine derived from different sources (salmon, herring and trout sperm) had different transfection efficiencies; however, the gene transfer efficiency with protamine was lower than with optimized poly(L-lysine) and DEAE-Dextran. There were likely two main reasons: firstly, the uptake of plasmid mediated by protamine was complete within the first 10min because the particle size increased as time passed, and secondly, the plasmid/protamine complexes were not released from endosomal membrane. These results indicate that as a transfection accelerator from an appropriate protamine source, with controlled particle size and facile release from endosomes would lead to successful gene delivery with protamine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yoshio Okahata
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Toshinori Sato
- Department of Biosciences and Informatics, Keio University, 3–14–1Hiyoshi, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama 223 –8522, Japan
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10
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d'Angelo I, Perfetto B, Costabile G, Ambrosini V, Caputo P, Miro A, d'Emmanuele di Villa Bianca R, Sorrentino R, Donnarumma G, Quaglia F, Ungaro F. Large Porous Particles for Sustained Release of a Decoy Oligonucelotide and Poly(ethylenimine): Potential for Combined Therapy of Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Lung Infections. Biomacromolecules 2016; 17:1561-71. [PMID: 27002689 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.5b01646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We have recently demonstrated that the specific inhibition of nuclear factor-κB by a decoy oligonucleotide (dec-ODN) delivered through inhalable large porous particles (LPP) made of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) may be highly beneficial for long-term treatment of lung inflammation. Nevertheless, besides chronic inflammation, multifunctional systems aimed to control also infection are required in chronic lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis (CF). In this work, we tested the hypothesis that engineering PLGA-based LPP with branched poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) may improve LPP properties for pulmonary delivery of dec-ODN, with particular regard to the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections. After getting insight into the role of PEI on the technological properties of PLGA-based LPP for delivery of dec-ODN, the putative synergistic effect of PEI free or PEI released from LPP on in vitro antimicrobial activity of tobramycin (Tb) and aztreonam (AZT) against P. aeruginosa was elucidated. Meanwhile, cytotoxicity studies on A549 cells were carried out. Results clearly demonstrate that the dry powders have promising aerosolization properties and afford a prolonged in vitro release of both dec-ODN and PEI. The encapsulation of PEI into LPP results in a 2-fold reduction of the minimum inhibitory concentration of AZT, while reducing the cytotoxic effect of PEI. Of note, the developed ODN/PLGA/PEI LPP persisted at lung at least for 14 days after intratracheal administration in rats where they can provide sustained and combined release of dec-ODN and PEI. dec-ODN will likely act as an anti-inflammatory drug, while PEI may enhance the therapeutic activity of inhaled antibiotics, which are commonly employed for the treatment of concomitant lung infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana d'Angelo
- Di.S.T.A.Bi.F., Second University of Naples , Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Brunella Perfetto
- Department of Experimental Medicine- Section of Microbiology, Second University of Naples , Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Costabile
- Drug Delivery Laboratories, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II , Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Ambrosini
- Department of Experimental Medicine- Section of Microbiology, Second University of Naples , Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Pina Caputo
- Department of Experimental Medicine- Section of Microbiology, Second University of Naples , Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Agnese Miro
- Drug Delivery Laboratories, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II , Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Sorrentino
- Pharmacology Laboratories, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II , Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Donnarumma
- Department of Experimental Medicine- Section of Microbiology, Second University of Naples , Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Drug Delivery Laboratories, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II , Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Drug Delivery Laboratories, Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II , Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
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11
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Enhanced thermogenic program by non-viral delivery of combinatory browning genes to treat diet-induced obesity in mice. Biomaterials 2015; 73:32-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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12
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Antila HS, Härkönen M, Sammalkorpi M. Chemistry specificity of DNA-polycation complex salt response: a simulation study of DNA, polylysine and polyethyleneimine. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2015; 17:5279-89. [PMID: 25607687 DOI: 10.1039/c4cp04967e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In this work, the chemistry specific stability determining factors of DNA-polycation complexes are examined by performing all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. To this end, we conduct a systematic variation of polycation line charge through polyethyleneimine (PEI) protonation and polycation chemistry via comparison with poly-l-lysine (PLL). Our simulations show that increasing line charge of the polycation alone does not lead to more salt tolerant complexes. Instead, the effective charge compensation by the polycation correlates with the increased stability of the complex against additional salt. The salt stability of PEI-DNA complexes also links to the proton sponge property of weak polycations, commonly assumed to be behind the effectivity of PEI as a gene delivery vector. Examination of the complexes reveals the mechanism behind this behaviour; more Cl(-) ions are attracted by the protonated complexes but, in contrast to the common depiction of the proton sponge behaviour, the ion influx does not cause swelling of the complex structure itself. However, PEI protonation leads to release of PEI while DNA remains tightly bound to the complex. Jointly, these findings shed light on the stability determining factors of DNA-polycation complexes, raise charge distribution as an important stability determining contributor, and indicate that the effectivity of PEI in gene delivery is likely to result from the freed PEI facilitating gene transfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne S Antila
- Aalto University School of Chemical Technology, Department of Chemistry, P.O. Box 16100, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland.
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13
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Park H, Cho S, Han YH, Janat-Amsbury MM, Boudina S, Bae YH. Combinatorial gene construct and non-viral delivery for anti-obesity in diet-induced obese mice. J Control Release 2015; 207:154-62. [PMID: 25817008 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2015.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2015] [Revised: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The combinatorial peptidergic therapy of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) and leptin (LEP) analogues was once an optimistic option in treating obese animals and patients. However, the need for frequent administrations and its negative side effects prevent it from being a viable choice. Here, we developed a combinatorial gene therapy of IAPP and LEP, where two genes are inserted into a single plasmid with self-cleaving furin and 2A sites to treat diet-induced obese (DIO) mice. The developed plasmid DNA (pDNA) individually produced both IAPP and LEP peptides in vitro and in vivo. The pDNA was delivered with a non-viral polymeric carrier, and its once-a-week administrations demonstrated a synergistic loss of body weight and significant reductions of fat mass, blood glucose, and lipid levels in DIO mice. The results suggest that the combinatorial gene therapy would have higher potential than the peptidergic approach for future translation due to its improved practicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongsuk Park
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Sungpil Cho
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Yong Hwan Han
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes and Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Margit M Janat-Amsbury
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Sihem Boudina
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes and Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - You Han Bae
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; Utah-Inha Drug Delivery Systems and Advanced Therapeutics Research Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
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14
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d'Angelo I, Conte C, La Rotonda MI, Miro A, Quaglia F, Ungaro F. Improving the efficacy of inhaled drugs in cystic fibrosis: challenges and emerging drug delivery strategies. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2014; 75:92-111. [PMID: 24842473 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common autosomal recessive disease in Caucasians associated with early death. Although the faulty gene is expressed in epithelia throughout the body, lung disease is still responsible for most of the morbidity and mortality of CF patients. As a local delivery route, pulmonary administration represents an ideal way to treat respiratory infections, excessive inflammation and other manifestations typical of CF lung disease. Nonetheless, important determinants of the clinical outcomes of inhaled drugs are the concentration/permanence at the lungs as well as the ability of the drug to overcome local extracellular and cellular barriers. This review focuses on emerging delivery strategies used for local treatment of CF pulmonary disease. After a brief description of the disease and formulation rules dictated by CF lung barriers, it describes current and future trends in inhaled drugs for CF. The most promising advanced formulations are discussed, highlighting the advantages along with the major challenges for researchers working in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana d'Angelo
- Di.S.T.A.B.i.F., Second University of Napoli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Claudia Conte
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Immacolata La Rotonda
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Agnese Miro
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy.
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15
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Lung gene therapy with highly compacted DNA nanoparticles that overcome the mucus barrier. J Control Release 2014; 178:8-17. [PMID: 24440664 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Inhaled gene carriers must penetrate the highly viscoelastic and adhesive mucus barrier in the airway in order to overcome rapid mucociliary clearance and reach the underlying epithelium; however, even the most widely used viral gene carriers are unable to efficiently do so. We developed two polymeric gene carriers that compact plasmid DNA into small and highly stable nanoparticles with dense polyethylene glycol (PEG) surface coatings. These highly compacted, densely PEG-coated DNA nanoparticles rapidly penetrate human cystic fibrosis (CF) mucus ex vivo and mouse airway mucus ex situ. Intranasal administration of the mucus penetrating DNA nanoparticles greatly enhanced particle distribution, retention and gene transfer in the mouse lung airways compared to conventional gene carriers. Successful delivery of a full-length plasmid encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein was achieved in the mouse lungs and airway cells, including a primary culture of mucus-covered human airway epithelium grown at air-liquid interface, without causing acute inflammation or toxicity. Highly compacted mucus penetrating DNA nanoparticles hold promise for lung gene therapy.
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Lai WF. In vivonucleic acid delivery with PEI and its derivatives: current status and perspectives. Expert Rev Med Devices 2014; 8:173-85. [DOI: 10.1586/erd.10.83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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17
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Saravanan M, Domb AJ. A contemporary review on – polymer stereocomplexes and its biomedical application. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NANOMEDICINE 2013. [DOI: 10.1515/ejnm-2012-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Zarogouldis P, Karamanos NK, Porpodis K, Domvri K, Huang H, Hohenforst-Schimdt W, Goldberg EP, Zarogoulidis K. Vectors for inhaled gene therapy in lung cancer. Application for nano oncology and safety of bio nanotechnology. Int J Mol Sci 2012; 13:10828-10862. [PMID: 23109824 PMCID: PMC3472716 DOI: 10.3390/ijms130910828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Revised: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 08/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel aerosol therapeutic modalities have been investigated for lung cancer. Inhaled gene therapy has presented safety and effectiveness previously in cystic fibrosis. However, safety concerns have been raised regarding the safety of non-viral vectors for inhaled gene therapy in lung cancer, and therefore small steps have been made towards this multifunctional treatment modality. During the last decade, numerous new nanocomplexes have been created and investigated as a safe gene delivery nano-vehicle. These formulations are multifunctional; they can be used as either local therapy or carrier for an effective inhaled gene therapy for lung cancer. Herein, we present current and future perspectives of nanocomplexes for inhaled gene therapy treatment in lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Zarogouldis
- Pulmonary Department-Oncology Unit, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 57010, Greece; E-Mails: (K.P.); (K.D.); (K.Z.)
- Pulmonary Department-Interventional Unit, “Ruhrland Klinik”, University of Essen, Essen 45239, Germany
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +30-697-727-1974; Fax: +30-231-099-2433
| | - Nikos K. Karamanos
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Patras, Patras 25200, Greece; E-Mail:
| | - Konstantinos Porpodis
- Pulmonary Department-Oncology Unit, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 57010, Greece; E-Mails: (K.P.); (K.D.); (K.Z.)
| | - Kalliopi Domvri
- Pulmonary Department-Oncology Unit, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 57010, Greece; E-Mails: (K.P.); (K.D.); (K.Z.)
| | - Haidong Huang
- Department of Respiratory diseases, Changhai hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; E-Mail:
| | | | - Eugene P. Goldberg
- Biomaterials Science & Engineering, Department of Materials Science & Engineering, University of Florida, FL 32611, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Konstantinos Zarogoulidis
- Pulmonary Department-Oncology Unit, “G. Papanikolaou” General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 57010, Greece; E-Mails: (K.P.); (K.D.); (K.Z.)
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Abstract
Lifespan prolongation is a common desire of the human race. With advances in biotechnology, the mechanism of aging has been gradually unraveled, laying the theoretical basis of nucleic acid therapy for lifespan prolongation. Regretfully, clinically applicable interventions do not exist without the efforts of converting theory into action, and it is the latter that has been far from adequately addressed at the moment. This was demonstrated by a database search on PubMed and Web of Science, from which only seven studies published between 2000 and 2010 were found to directly touch on the development of nucleic acid therapy for anti-aging and/or longevity enhancing purposes. In light of this, the objective of this article is to overview the current understanding of the intimate association between genes and longevity, and to bring the prospect of nucleic acid therapy for lifespan prolongation to light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing-Fu Lai
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
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Bertrand E, Gonçalves C, Billiet L, Gomez JP, Pichon C, Cheradame H, Midoux P, Guégan P. Histidinylated linear PEI: a new efficient non-toxic polymer for gene transfer. Chem Commun (Camb) 2011; 47:12547-9. [PMID: 22020088 DOI: 10.1039/c1cc15716g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
A series of linear polyethylenimine (lPEI) substituted with histidine residue (His-lPEI) was synthesized using the Michael reaction in order to provide new highly efficient vectors for gene therapy applications (up to 95% of transfected cells) with remarkable low cytotoxicity compared to lPEI-based polyplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Bertrand
- Laboratoire LAMBE équipe MPI, UMR 8587, Université d'Evry Val d'Essonne, Evry, France
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Kim HA, Park JH, Lee S, Choi JS, Rhim T, Lee M. Combined delivery of dexamethasone and plasmid DNA in an animal model of LPS-induced acute lung injury. J Control Release 2011; 156:60-9. [PMID: 21763372 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2011] [Revised: 06/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Dexamethasone was conjugated to low molecular weight polyethylenimine (2kDa, PEI2k). Dexamethasone conjugated PEI2k (PEI2k-Dexa) was evaluated as a combined delivery carrier of dexamethasone and plasmid DNA (pDNA) in an animal model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced acute lung injury (ALI). In vitro transfection of L2 lung epithelial cells, PEI2k-Dexa exhibited higher transfection efficiency than PEI2k or a simple mixture of PEI2k and dexamethasone. In addition, the PEI2k-Dexa/pβ-Luc complexes reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS activated Raw 264.7 macrophage cells. The anti-inflammatory effect of PEI2k-Dexa was higher than that of controls. The PEI2k-Dexa/pβ-Luc complexes were administered to mice via intratracheal injection. PEI2k-Dexa had higher pDNA delivery efficiency than PEI2k in the lung and decreased TNF-α and IL-6 in the lung homogenates and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid compared with the controls. Furthermore, total protein and immunoglobulin M (IgM) concentrations in BAL fluid were reduced by the PEI2k-Dexa/pβ-Luc complexes. The intratracheal injection of the PEI2k-Dexa/pcDNA-EGFP complexes in the ALI model showed higher EGFP expression compared with PEI2k. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining showed that PEI2k-Dexa reduced inflammatory reaction in the lung. Therefore, PEI2k-Dexa may be useful for combination gene and drug therapy for ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ah Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Smyth HD, Hickey AJ. Pulmonary Delivery of Plasmid DNA for Disease Prevention and Therapy. CONTROLLED PULMONARY DRUG DELIVERY 2011. [PMCID: PMC7122476 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-9745-6_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
For gene delivery to the lung, the challenges are high, but successful treatment of cystic fibrosis or achieving immunity against the global infectious diseases provide an allure that cannot be ignored. This chapter summarizes and reviews nonviral DNA delivery for both gene therapy and DNA vaccination in the lung. Aerosolization of DNA is evaluated, and the stability during this process is discussed. Carriers for DNA are then discussed including lipoplexes and polyplexes, with a particular focus on systems that achieve good transfection and minimize potential toxicity. Then principles of DNA vaccination are introduced, and the advantages of pulmonary vaccination are discussed. Finally, the transport of plasmid DNA vaccines into the lungs is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh D.C. Smyth
- , Pharmaceutics Division - PHR 4.214, University of Texas, University Station 1, Austin, 78712 USA
| | - Anthony J. Hickey
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, 27599 North Carolina USA
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23
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Aigner A. Delivery systems for the direct application of siRNAs to induce RNA interference (RNAi) in vivo. J Biomed Biotechnol 2010; 2006:71659. [PMID: 17057369 PMCID: PMC1559929 DOI: 10.1155/jbb/2006/71659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful method for specific gene
silencing which may also lead to promising novel therapeutic
strategies. It is mediated through small interfering RNAs (siRNAs)
which sequence-specifically trigger the cleavage and subsequent
degradation of their target mRNA. One critical factor is the
ability to deliver intact siRNAs into target cells/organs in vivo.
This review highlights the mechanism of RNAi and the guidelines
for the design of optimal siRNAs. It gives an overview of studies
based on the systemic or local application of naked siRNAs or the
use of various nonviral siRNA delivery systems. One promising
avenue is the the complexation of siRNAs with the polyethylenimine
(PEI), which efficiently stabilizes siRNAs and, upon systemic
administration, leads to the delivery of the intact siRNAs into
different organs. The antitumorigenic effects of
PEI/siRNA-mediated in vivo gene-targeting of tumor-relevant
proteins like in mouse tumor xenograft models are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achim Aigner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology,
Philipps-University Marburg, Karl-v.-Frisch-Strasse 1, 35033 Marburg, Germany
- *Achim Aigner:
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Hu Q, Zuo P, Shao B, Yang S, Xu G, Lan F, Lu X, Xiong W, Xu Y, Xiong S. Administration of nonviral gene vector encoding rat beta-defensin-2 ameliorates chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection in rats. J Gene Med 2010; 12:276-86. [PMID: 20131335 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Beta-defensin-2 (BD-2) plays an important role in host defense against pathogenic microbe challenge by its direct antimicrobial activity and immunomodulatory functions. The present study aimed to determine whether genetic up-regulation of rat BD-2 (rBD-2) could ameliorate chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection in rats. METHODS Plasmid-encoding rBD-2 was delivered to lungs in vivo using linear polyethylenimine at 48 h before challenging with seaweed alginate beads containing P. aeruginosa. Macroscopic and histopathological changes of the lungs, bacterial loads, inflammatory infiltration, and the levels of cytokines/chemokines [interleukin (IL)-1beta, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, kertinocyte-derived chemokine (KC), macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2)] were measured at 3 and 7 days post-infection (p.i.). RESULTS The overexpression of rBD-2 resulted in a significant increase in animal survival rate (at 3 days p.i.), a significant decrease in bacterial loads in the lungs (at 3 and 7 days p.i.), and significantly milder lung pathology. In addition, the overexpression of rBD-2 led to increased infiltration of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN), and elevated protein expression of cytokines/chemokines (IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, KC and MIP-2) at the early stage of infection (at 3 days p.i.), at the same time as being dramatically decreased at the later stage of infection (at 7 days p.i.). CONCLUSIONS Genetic up-regulation of rBD-2 increased animal survival rate, and reduced bacterial loads in lungs after bacterial infection. The overexpression of rBD-2 also modulated the production of several cytokines/chemokines and increased PMN recruitment at the early stage of infection. Our findings indicate that the enhancement of BD-2 may be an efficacious intervention for chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongjie Hu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Diseases of Ministry of Health of China, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan City, China
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Millili PG, Yin DH, Fan H, Naik UP, Sullivan MO. Formulation of a peptide nucleic acid based nucleic acid delivery construct. Bioconjug Chem 2010; 21:445-55. [PMID: 20131756 DOI: 10.1021/bc900328j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Gene delivery biomaterials need to be designed to efficiently achieve nuclear delivery of plasmid DNA. Polycations have been used to package DNA and other nucleic acids within submicrometer-sized particles, offering protection from shear-induced or enzymatic degradation. However, cytotoxicity issues coupled with limited in vivo transfection efficiencies minimize the effectiveness of this approach. In an effort to improve upon existing technologies aimed at delivering nucleic acids, an alternative approach to DNA packaging was explored. Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) were used to directly functionalize DNA with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains that provide a steric layer and inhibit multimolecular aggregation during complexation. DNA prePEGylation by this strategy was predicted to enable the formation of more homogeneous and efficiently packaged polyplexes. In this work, DNA-PNA-peptide-PEG (DP3) conjugates were synthesized and self-assembled with 25 kDa poly(ethylenimine) (PEI). Complexes with small standard deviations and average diameters ranging 30-50 nm were created, with minimal dependence of complex size on N/P ratio (PEI amines to DNA phosphates). Furthermore, PEI-DNA interactions were altered by the derivatization strategy, resulting in tighter compaction of the PEI-DP3 complexes in comparison to PEI-DNA complexes. Transfection experiments in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells revealed comparable transfection efficiencies but reduced cytotoxicities of the PEI-DP3 complexes relative to PEI-DNA complexes. The enhanced cellular activities of the PEI-DP3 complexes were maintained following the removal of free PEI from the PEI-DP3 formulations, whereas the cellular activity of the conventional PEI-DNA formulations was reduced by free PEI removal. These findings suggest that DNA prePEGylation by the PNA-based strategy might provide a way to circumvent cytotoxicity and formulation issues related to the use of PEI for in vivo gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter G Millili
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Department of Biological Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, and Department of Pharmaceutical Research, Development, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
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Pringle IA, Hyde SC, Gill DR. Non-viral vectors in cystic fibrosis gene therapy: recent developments and future prospects. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2009; 9:991-1003. [PMID: 19545217 DOI: 10.1517/14712590903055029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy has been proposed for a wide range of human diseases but few have received the level of attention over such a prolonged period as cystic fibrosis (CF) with over 20 clinical studies undertaken. Following a 10-year interval, clinical trials of an aerosolisable non-viral gene transfer agent have recently been initiated by researchers in the United Kingdom. Here we review the rationale and requirements for effective gene therapy for CF lung disease. The previous non-viral gene therapy trials are discussed and the prospects for the current leading non-viral formulations for CF gene therapy are considered. Factors affecting the selection and design of the plasmid DNA molecule, likely to be of central importance to clinical efficacy, are reviewed and we describe the potential merits of the formulation that has been selected for the forthcoming UK trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Pringle
- University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Oxford, UK.
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27
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Dehshahri A, Oskuee RK, Shier WT, Hatefi A, Ramezani M. Gene transfer efficiency of high primary amine content, hydrophobic, alkyl-oligoamine derivatives of polyethylenimine. Biomaterials 2009; 30:4187-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2009.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2009] [Accepted: 04/20/2009] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Di Gioia S, Conese M. Polyethylenimine-mediated gene delivery to the lung and therapeutic applications. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2009; 2:163-88. [PMID: 19920904 PMCID: PMC2761186 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s2708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Nonviral gene delivery is now considered a promising alternative to viral vectors. Among nonviral gene delivery agents, polyethylenimine (PEI) has emerged as a potent candidate for gene delivery to the lung. PEI has some advantages over other polycations in that it combines strong DNA compaction capacity with an intrinsic endosomolytic activity. However, intracellular (mainly the nuclear membrane) and extracellular obstacles still hamper its efficiency in vitro and in vivo, depending on the route of administration and the type of PEI. Nuclear delivery has been increased by adding nuclear localization signals. To overcome nonspecific interactions with biological fluids, extracellular matrix components and nontarget cells, strategies have been developed to protect polyplexes from these interactions and to increase target specificity and gene expression. When gene delivery into airway epithelial cells of the conducting airways is necessary, aerosolization of complexes seems to be better suited to guarantee higher transgene expression in the airway epithelial cells with lower toxicity than observed with either intratracheal or intravenous administration. Aerosolization, indeed, is useful to target the alveolar epithelium and pulmonary endothelium. Proof-of-principle that PEI-mediated gene delivery has therapeutic application to some genetic and acquired lung disease is presented, using as genetic material either plasmidic DNA or small-interfering RNA, although optimization of formulation and delivery protocols and limitation of toxicity need further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sante Di Gioia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale L. Pinto 1, Foggia, Italy
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Hanzlíková M, Soininen P, Lampela P, Männistö PT, Raasmaja A. The role of PEI structure and size in the PEI/liposome-mediated synergism of gene transfection. Plasmid 2009; 61:15-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plasmid.2008.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2008] [Revised: 08/27/2008] [Accepted: 08/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Design and synthesis of N4,N9-disubstituted spermines for non-viral siRNA delivery--structure-activity relationship studies of siFection efficiency versus toxicity. Pharm Res 2008; 26:286-95. [PMID: 18841447 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-008-9731-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2008] [Accepted: 09/12/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the effect of sequentially changing the chain length, oxidation level, and charge distribution in N4,N9-diacyl and N4,N9-dialkyl spermines on siRNA formulation, and then to compare their lipoplex transfection efficiency in cell lines. METHODS Eight N4,N9-diacyl polyamines: N4,N9-[didecanoyl, dilauroyl, dimyristoyl, dimyristoleoyl, dipalmitoyl, distearoyl, dioleoyl and diretinoyl]-1,12-diamino-4,9-diazadodecane were synthesized. Their abilities to bind to siRNA and form nanoparticles were studied using a RiboGreen intercalation assay and particle sizing. Two diamides were also reduced to afford tetraamines N4,N9-distearyl- and N4,N9-dioleyl-1,12-diamino-4,9-diazadodecane. Delivery of fluorescein-labelled Label IT RNAi Delivery Control was studied in FEK4 primary skin cells and in an immortalized cancer cell line (HtTA), and compared with TransIT-TKO. RESULTS The design, synthesis, and structure-activity relationship studies of a series of N4,N9-disubstituted spermines as efficient vectors for non-viral siRNA delivery to primary skin and cancer cell lines is reported. These non-liposomal cationic lipids are promising siRNA carriers based on the naturally occurring polyamine spermine showing that C-18 is a better chain length as shorter chains are more toxic. CONCLUSIONS N4,N9-Distearoyl spermine and N4,N9-dioleoyl spermine are efficient siRNA formulation and delivery vectors, even in the presence of serum, comparable to TransIT-TKO. However, four positive charges distributed as in spermine was significantly more toxic.
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Dallabrida SM, Ismail NS, Pravda EA, Parodi EM, Dickie R, Durand EM, Lai J, Cassiola F, Rogers RA, Rupnick MA. Integrin binding angiopoietin-1 monomers reduce cardiac hypertrophy. FASEB J 2008; 22:3010-23. [PMID: 18502941 DOI: 10.1096/fj.07-100966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Angiopoietins were thought to be endothelial cell-specific via the tie2 receptor. We showed that angiopoietin-1 (ang1) also interacts with integrins on cardiac myocytes (CMs) to increase survival. Because ang1 monomers bind and activate integrins (not tie2), we determined their function in vivo. We examined monomer and multimer expressions during physiological and pathological cardiac remodeling and overexpressed ang1 monomers in phenylephrine-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Cardiac ang1 levels (mRNA, protein) increased during postnatal development and decreased with phenylephrine-induced cardiac hypertrophy, whereas tie2 phosphorylations were unchanged. We found that most or all of the changes during cardiac remodeling were in monomers, offering an explanation for unchanged tie2 activity. Heart tissue contains abundant ang1 monomers and few multimers (Western blotting). We generated plasmids that produce ang1 monomers (ang1-256), injected them into mice, and confirmed cardiac expression (immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR). Ang1 monomers localize to CMs, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells. In phenylephrine-induced cardiac hypertrophy, ang1-256 reduced left ventricle (LV)/tibia ratios, fetal gene expressions (atrial and brain natriuretic peptides, skeletal actin, beta-myosin heavy chain), and fibrosis (collagen III), and increased LV prosurvival signaling (akt, MAPK(p42/44)), and AMPK(T172). However, tie2 phosphorylations were unchanged. Ang1-256 increased integrin-linked kinase, a key regulator of integrin signaling and cardiac health. Collectively, these results suggest a role for ang1 monomers in cardiac remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Dallabrida
- Division of Vascular Biology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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32
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Di Gioia S, Rejman J, Carrabino S, De Fino I, Rudolph C, Doherty A, Hyndman L, Di Cicco M, Copreni E, Bragonzi A, Colombo C, Boyd AC, Conese M. Role of Biophysical Parameters on ex Vivo and in Vivo Gene Transfer to the Airway Epithelium by Polyethylenimine/Albumin Complexes. Biomacromolecules 2008; 9:859-66. [DOI: 10.1021/bm701190p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sante Di Gioia
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Joanna Rejman
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Salvatore Carrabino
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Ida De Fino
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Carsten Rudolph
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Ann Doherty
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Laura Hyndman
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Maurizio Di Cicco
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Elena Copreni
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Alessandra Bragonzi
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Carla Colombo
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - A. Christopher Boyd
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
| | - Massimo Conese
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Biopharmacy and Biotechnology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany, Medical Genetics Section, Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K., Dipartimento di Otorinolaringoiatra, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli
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Zhang S, Zhao B, Jiang H, Wang B, Ma B. Cationic lipids and polymers mediated vectors for delivery of siRNA. J Control Release 2007; 123:1-10. [PMID: 17716771 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2007.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 299] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2007] [Accepted: 07/19/2007] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is one of the most importantly protective phenomena forming from the process combating against virus. Since its high efficiency for silencing the expression of proteins at the posttranscriptional level, RNAi shows great prospect in therapeutics for diseases. However, the delivery of siRNA into cells, tissues or organs remains to be a big obstacle for its applications. Many vectors for siRNA delivery have been developed including viral vectors and non-viral vectors, among them non-viral vectors have the advantages of low toxicity, ease of synthesis and low immune response over viral ones. Cationic liposomes and polymer particles, major varieties of non-viral vectors, used for gene delivery, have shown to be suitable for the delivery of siRNA. Based on the concise introduction of RNAi, this article reviews the non-viral delivery systems of siRNA, hoping to provide helpful information for the development of delivery systems of siRNA, and to summarize literatures about siRNA delivery published in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubiao Zhang
- SEAC-ME Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Dalian Nationalities University, Dalian 116600, Liaoning, China.
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Yang M, Rangasamy D, Matthaei KI, Frew AJ, Zimmmermann N, Mahalingam S, Webb DC, Tremethick DJ, Thompson PJ, Hogan SP, Rothenberg ME, Cowden WB, Foster PS. Inhibition of arginase I activity by RNA interference attenuates IL-13-induced airways hyperresponsiveness. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2007; 177:5595-603. [PMID: 17015747 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.177.8.5595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Increased arginase I activity is associated with allergic disorders such as asthma. How arginase I contributes to and is regulated by allergic inflammatory processes remains unknown. CD4+ Th2 lymphocytes (Th2 cells) and IL-13 are two crucial immune regulators that use STAT6-dependent pathways to induce allergic airways inflammation and enhanced airways responsiveness to spasmogens (airways hyperresponsiveness (AHR)). This pathway is also used to activate arginase I in isolated cells and in hepatic infection with helminths. In the present study, we show that arginase I expression is also regulated in the lung in a STAT6-dependent manner by Th2-induced allergic inflammation or by IL-13 alone. IL-13-induced expression of arginase I correlated directly with increased synthesis of urea and with reduced synthesis of NO. Expression of arginase I, but not eosinophilia or mucus hypersecretion, temporally correlated with the development, persistence, and resolution of IL-13-induced AHR. Pharmacological supplementation with l-arginine or with NO donors amplified or attenuated IL-13-induced AHR, respectively. Moreover, inducing loss of function of arginase I specifically in the lung by using RNA interference abrogated the development of IL-13-induced AHR. These data suggest an important role for metabolism of l-arginine by arginase I in the modulation of IL-13-induced AHR and identify a potential pathway distal to cytokine receptor interactions for the control of IL-13-mediated bronchoconstriction in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Division of Molecular Biosciences, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Watanabe M, Ebina M, Orson FM, Nakamura A, Kubota K, Koinuma D, Akiyama KI, Maemondo M, Okouchi S, Tahara M, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Nukiwa T. Hepatocyte growth factor gene transfer to alveolar septa for effective suppression of lung fibrosis. Mol Ther 2006; 12:58-67. [PMID: 15963921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2005.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2004] [Revised: 02/07/2005] [Accepted: 02/26/2005] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
We examined therapeutic gene transfer of human hepatocyte growth factor (hHGF) to alveolar septa in mouse bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis using macroaggregated albumin-polyethylenimine complex (MAA-PEI). Intravenous administration of MAA-PEI along with 1 microg pCAG.hHGF to C57BL/6 mice increased the uptake of plasmids into alveolar capillary endothelial cells and epithelial cells, prolonged hHGF expression in the lung, and induced a level of hHGF expression equal to that seen with 10 microg of hHGF-expression plasmids alone. The exogenous source of hHGF gene expression increased the endogenous mouse HGF in the lungs and significantly decreased TNF-alpha, IL-6, and collagen synthesis after bleomycin injury. Because GFP-labeled bone marrow-derived stem cells after bleomycin injury were reduced in number by HGF, the primary mechanism of HGF is likely to be the prevention of apoptosis, as has been suggested by in vitro experiments. This novel HGF gene transfer method to alveolar septa with nonstimulatory MAA-PEI conjugates may have promising clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Watanabe
- Respiratory Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
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36
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Dif F, Djediat C, Alegria O, Demeneix B, Levi G. Transfection of multiple pulmonary cell types following intravenous injection of PEI-DNA in normal and CFTR mutant mice. J Gene Med 2006; 8:82-9. [PMID: 16142827 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The polycationic vector polyethylenimine (PEI) has been shown to be a powerful agent for transfecting the mouse lung after injection of plasmid-based polyplexes through the tail vein. These findings raise therapeutic prospects for a number of lung conditions. For such potentials to be realised, the precise identity of the transfected cells remains to be determined; however, so far, no ultrastructural analysis has been performed on PEI-transfected lungs. The definition of which pulmonary cells are transfected is particularly critical for certain pulmonary diseases which might require transfection of defined cell types such as epithelial cells for cystic fibrosis (CF). METHODS Here, we use a combination of light and electron microscopy to determine which cells are transfected in the lung after PEI-mediated gene delivery through the intravenous route. Furthermore, we extend the same experimental setting to a mouse model of CF to provide proof of principle that this approach can be used in genetic models of the disease. RESULTS We show that within 18-20 h after injection through the tail vein, DNA/PEI complexes have already crossed the capillary barrier resulting in high levels of expression of reporter genes in the lungs. Transgene expression is observed in endothelial cells, in type I and type II pneumocytes, and in septal cells. Coexpression of the transgene and of the endogenous CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene is observed in some of the targeted epithelial cells. Levels and sites of expression are similar in normal and in CFTR-mutant mice. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate that PEI-mediated gene delivery leads to transfection of epithelial cells beyond the endothelial barrier and show that this method can be used for lung gene delivery in CF fragile mutant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariel Dif
- UMR5166 CNRS-MNHN Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, 7 rue Cuvier, 75231 Paris Cedex 5, France
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Abstract
Gene therapy has been deemed the medicine of the future due to its potential to treat many types of diseases. However, many obstacles remain before gene delivery is optimized to specific target cells. Over the last several decades, many approaches to gene delivery have been closely examined. By understanding the factors that determine the efficiency of gene uptake and expression as well as those that influence the toxicity of the vector, we are better able to develop new vector systems. This chapter will provide a brief overview of recent advances in gene delivery, specifically on the development of novel non-viral vectors. The following chapters will provide additional details regarding the evolution of non-viral gene delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine C Conwell
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
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38
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Werth S, Urban-Klein B, Dai L, Höbel S, Grzelinski M, Bakowsky U, Czubayko F, Aigner A. A low molecular weight fraction of polyethylenimine (PEI) displays increased transfection efficiency of DNA and siRNA in fresh or lyophilized complexes. J Control Release 2006; 112:257-70. [PMID: 16574264 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2006.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2005] [Revised: 02/03/2006] [Accepted: 02/13/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) represents a powerful method for specific gene silencing. It is mediated through small double-stranded RNA molecules (small interfering RNAs, siRNAs) which sequence-specifically trigger the cleavage and subsequent degradation of their target mRNA. One critical factor that determines the success of RNAi is the ability to deliver intact siRNAs into target cells. Polyethylenimines (PEIs) are synthetic polymers with a high cationic charge density which function as transfection reagents based on their ability to compact DNA or RNA into complexes. This paper describes the application of lyophilized PEI/siRNA complexes based on a novel polyethylenimine. By fractionation of a commercially available 25-kDa PEI using gel permeation chromatography, a low molecular weight polyethylenimine (PEI F25-LMW) with superior transfection efficacy and low toxicity in various cell lines is obtained. Complexes formed in 5% glucose, but not in 150 mM NaCl, can be lyophilized and reconstituted without loss of transfection efficacy. Furthermore, PEI F25-LMW is able to complex and fully protect siRNAs against nucleolytic degradation, and delivers siRNAs into cells where they display bioactivity. Upon lyophilization and reconstitution of PEI F25-LMW-based siRNA complexes, siRNAs are still able to efficiently induce RNAi. To further demonstrate their applicability, lyophilized PEI/siRNA complexes are employed for targeting of the growth factor VEGF. Treatment of PC-3 prostate carcinoma cells with fresh or with lyophilized complexes results in decreased cell proliferation in different assays due to the siRNA-mediated downregulation of VEGF. In conclusion, siRNAs can be applied in lyophilized formulations, and lyophilized PEI F25-LMW-based siRNA complexes represent a powerful, inexpensive, non-toxic and simple ready-to-use platform for the specific and efficient targeting of genes in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Werth
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Philipps-University School of Medicine, Marburg, Germany
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Lu L, Lin M, Xu M, Zhou ZM, Sha JH. Gene functional research using polyethylenimine-mediated in vivo gene transfection into mouse spermatogenic cells. Asian J Androl 2006; 8:53-9. [PMID: 16372119 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2006.00089.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To study polyethylenimine (PEI)-mediated in vivo gene transfection into testis cells and preliminary functional research of spermatogenic cell-specific gene NYD-SP12 using this method. METHODS PEI/DNA complexes were introduced into the seminiferous tubules of mouse testes using intratesticular injection. Transfection efficiency and speciality were analyzed on the third day of transfection with fluorescent microscopy and hematoxylin staining. The long-lasting expression of the GFP-NYD-SP12 fusion protein and its subcellular localization in spermatogenic cells at different stages were analyzed with fluorescent microscopy and propidium iodide staining. RESULTS With the mediation of PEI, the GFP-NYD-SP12 fusion gene was efficiently transferred and expressed in the germ cells (especially in primary spermatocytes). Transfection into Sertoli cells was not observed. The subcellular localization of the GFP-NYD-SP2 fusion protein showed dynamic shifts in spermatogenic cells at different stages during spermatogenesis. CONCLUSION PEI can efficiently mediate gene transfer into spermatocytes. Thus, it might be useful for the functional research of spermatogenic-cell specific genes such as the NYD-SP12 gene. In our study, the NYD-SP12 protein was visualized and was involved in the formation of acrosome during spermatogenesis. Our research will continue into the detailed function of NYD-SP12 in spermatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Lu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Road, Nanjing 210029, China
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40
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Mellor HR, Davies LA, Caspar H, Pringle CR, Hyde SC, Gill DR, Callaghan R. Optimising non-viral gene delivery in a tumour spheroid model. J Gene Med 2006; 8:1160-70. [PMID: 16807955 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our current understanding of how the unique tumour microenvironment influences the efficacy of gene delivery is limited. The current investigation systematically examines the efficiency of several non-viral gene transfer agents to transfect multicellular tumour spheroids (MCTS), an in vitro model that displays a faithful three-dimensional (3D) representation of solid tumour tissue. METHODS Using a luciferase reporter assay, gene transfer to MCTS was optimised for 22 kDa linear and 25 kDa branched polyethyleneimine (PEI), the cationic lipids Lipofectamine(trade mark) and DCChol : DOPE, and the physical approach of tissue electroporation. Confocal microscopy was used to take optical tissue slices to identify the tissue localisation of green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter gene expression and the distribution of fluorescently labelled complexes. A MCTS model of quiescent tumour regions was used to establish the influence of cellular proliferation status on gene transfer efficiency. RESULTS Of the polyplexes tested, 22 kDa linear PEI provided optimal gene delivery, with gene expression peaking at 46 h. Despite being the optimal vector tested, PEI-mediated transfection was limited to cells at the MCTS periphery. Using fluorescent PEI, it was found that complexes could only penetrate the outer 3-5 proliferating cell layers of the MCTS, sparing the deeper quiescent cells. Gene delivery in an MCTS model comprised entirely of quiescent cells demonstrated that in addition to being inaccessible to the vector, quiescent tumour regions are inherently less susceptible to PEI-mediated transfection than proliferating regions. This 'resistance' to transfection observed in quiescent cells was overcome through the use of electroporation. Despite the improved efficacy of electroporation in quiescent tissue, the gene expression was still confined to the outer regions of MCTS. The results suggest that limited access to central regions of an MCTS remain a significant barrier to gene delivery. CONCLUSIONS This data provides new insights into tumour-specific factors affecting non-viral gene transfer and highlights the difficulties in delivering genes to avascular tumour regions. The MCTS model is a useful system for the initial screening of future gene therapy strategies for solid tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- H R Mellor
- Oxford Drug Resistance Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Garzón MR, Berraondo P, Crettaz J, Ochoa L, Vera M, Lasarte JJ, Vales A, Van Rooijen N, Ruiz J, Prieto J, Zulueta J, González-Aseguinolaza G. Induction of gp120-specific protective immune responses by genetic vaccination with linear polyethylenimine-plasmid complex. Vaccine 2005; 23:1384-92. [PMID: 15661387 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2004.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2004] [Revised: 08/13/2004] [Accepted: 09/10/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The induction of IFN-gamma-secreting CD8+ T cells and neutralizing antibodies to HIV-1 are both key requirements for prevention of viral transmission and clearance of pathogenic HIV. Although DNA vaccination has been shown to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses against HIV antigens, the magnitude of the immune responses has always been disappointing. In this report, we analyze the ability of polyethylenimine (PEI)-DNA complex expressing an HIV-glycoprotein 120 (gp120) antigen (PEI-pgp120) to induce systemic CD8+ T cell and humoral responses to the gp120 antigen. The administration of PEI-plasmid complex resulted in rapid elevation of serum levels of IL-12 and IFN-gamma. Furthermore, a single administration of PEI-pgp120 complex elicits a number of gp120-specific CD8+ T cells 20 times higher than that elicited by three intramuscular injections of naked DNA. Interestingly, we found that systemic vaccination with PEI-pgp120 induced protective immune responses against both systemic and mucosal challenges with a recombinant vaccinia virus expressing a gp120 antigen. The data also demonstrated that the depletion of macrophages with liposome-encapsulated clodronate completely abolished gp120-specific cellular response. Overall, our results showed that a single administration of PEI-pgp120 complexes, eliciting strong immune responses, is an effective vaccination approach to generate protection against systemic and mucosal viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manolo Rodrigo Garzón
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy of Viral Hepatitis, Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Clínica Universitaria/School of Medicine, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pío XII 55, 31080 Pamplona, Spain
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Lungwitz U, Breunig M, Blunk T, Göpferich A. Polyethylenimine-based non-viral gene delivery systems. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2005; 60:247-66. [PMID: 15939236 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2004.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 727] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2004] [Revised: 11/02/2004] [Accepted: 11/02/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy has become a promising strategy for the treatment of many inheritable or acquired diseases that are currently considered incurable. Non-viral vectors have attracted great interest, as they are simple to prepare, rather stable, easy to modify and relatively safe, compared to viral vectors. Unfortunately, they also suffer from a lower transfection efficiency, requiring additional effort for their optimization. The cationic polymer polyethylenimine (PEI) has been widely used for non-viral transfection in vitro and in vivo and has an advantage over other polycations in that it combines strong DNA compaction capacity with an intrinsic endosomolytic activity. Here, we give some insight into strategies developed for PEI-based non-viral vectors to overcome intracellular obstacles, including the improvement of methods for polyplex preparation and the incorporation of endosomolytic agents or nuclear localization signals. In recent years, PEI-based non-viral vectors have been locally or systemically delivered, mostly to target gene delivery to tumor tissue, the lung or liver. This requires strategies to efficiently shield transfection polyplexes against non-specific interaction with blood components, extracellular matrix and untargeted cells and the attachment of targeting moieties, which allow for the directed gene delivery to the desired cell or tissue. In this context, materials, facilitating the design of novel PEI-based non-viral vectors are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Lungwitz
- Department of Pharmacy and Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Technology Unit, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Pack DW, Hoffman AS, Pun S, Stayton PS. Design and development of polymers for gene delivery. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2005; 4:581-93. [PMID: 16052241 DOI: 10.1038/nrd1775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1910] [Impact Index Per Article: 100.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The lack of safe and efficient gene-delivery methods is a limiting obstacle to human gene therapy. Synthetic gene-delivery agents, although safer than recombinant viruses, generally do not possess the required efficacy. In recent years, a variety of effective polymers have been designed specifically for gene delivery, and much has been learned about their structure-function relationships. With the growing understanding of polymer gene-delivery mechanisms and continued efforts of creative polymer chemists, it is likely that polymer-based gene-delivery systems will become an important tool for human gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W Pack
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois, Box C-3, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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Abstract
Over the past decade, significant research has been done in the area of polymer-mediated gene delivery. Synthesis of new polymers and modifications to existing polymers has resulted in polyplexes with improved in vitro and in vivo transfection efficiencies. Targeting has been an important aspect of this research, and various strategies for obtaining selective and enhanced gene delivery to the target site have been evaluated. This review covers the different aspects involved in polyplex targeting. Development of targeted polyplexes involves a careful consideration of the target site, the targeting ligand and the physicochemical properties of the polyplex itself. The need to redirect the polyplexes by using the 'shield and target' approach by reducing nonspecific interactions with negatively charged components, while conferring specificity by incorporating targeting ligands, is discussed. Basic chemistry involved in modifying polymers is covered and examples of targeting strategies used for tissue-specific gene delivery are discussed. Targeting is also discussed in the broader context of developing safe and effective polymeric vectors for in vivo gene delivery. Maximum benefit of targeting can be obtained when it is used as part of a multi-functional complex containing elements designed to improve gene delivery and reduce overall toxicity of the polyplex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery A Hughes
- University of Florida, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Carrabino S, Di Gioia S, Copreni E, Conese M. Serum albumin enhances polyethylenimine-mediated gene delivery to human respiratory epithelial cells. J Gene Med 2005; 7:1555-64. [PMID: 16028303 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The interaction of polyethylenimine (PEI) polyplexes with proteins in cystic fibrosis (CF) airway secretions poses a significant hurdle to this nonviral delivery system. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether albumin may increase the efficiency of PEI complexes in mediating gene transfer into respiratory epithelial cells in the presence of CF mucus. METHODS PEI (25 kDa) was complexed to DNA in the presence of human serum albumin (HSA) and used to transfect confluent A549 and 9HTEo- cells. Alternatively, albumin was added to preformed PEI-DNA complexes. The cytotoxicity of complexes was analysed by the LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) assay. CF CFT1-C2 cells were allowed to polarise and were transfected either with luciferase- or CFTR-expressing plasmids. To evaluate the effect of CF respiratory secretions on transfection efficiency, confluent cells were transfected in the presence of sputum obtained from two CF patients. RESULTS The ternary PEI-HSA complexes increased luciferase expression in confluent cultures in a dose-dependent fashion up to 100 times as compared to PEI-DNA. The number of GFP-expressing cells, as evaluated by epifluorescence, was augmented several-fold. When HSA was added to preformed PEI-DNA complexes, a further 5-10-fold increase in gene expression was observed. No significant cytotoxicity was observed with either PEI or PEI-HSA polyplexes. The ternary complexes determined detectable CFTR gene transfer and expression at the apical membrane in polarised CFT1-C2 cells, as evaluated by confocal microscopy. CF sputum inhibited PEI-mediated gene transfer by 7-186-fold. Although luciferase expression mediated by PEI-HSA was still inhibited by CF sputum, these levels were 18-83.8-fold higher than with PEI. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that albumin increases PEI gene transfer efficiency in confluent and polarised respiratory epithelial cells and can allow CFTR gene expression in the appropriate cellular compartment. PEI-HSA complexes display a higher efficiency than PEI also in the presence of CF sputum, indicating that albumin-containing polyplexes may help overcome barriers imposed by CF airway secretions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Carrabino
- Institute for Experimental Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, H. S. Raffaele, Milano, Italy
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Tan PH, Yang LC, Shih HC, Lan KC, Cheng JT. Gene knockdown with intrathecal siRNA of NMDA receptor NR2B subunit reduces formalin-induced nociception in the rat. Gene Ther 2004; 12:59-66. [PMID: 15470478 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activation, at the level of the spinal cord, has been shown to play an important role in the facilitation of nociception in several animal models. However, the use of NMDA antagonists as analgesics is limited by serious side effects due to nonselective effects among the NMDA receptor subtypes. Recent discoveries revealed that the transfection of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) into animal cells resulted in the potent, long-lasting, post-transcriptional silencing of specific genes. Thus, we investigated the effect of intrathecal (i.t.) injection of siRNAs targeting NMDA-R2B receptor subunit protein (NR2B) receptors, a subunit of NMDA receptor, for the modulation of pain. The results indicate that the use of siRNA targeting the NR2B subunit not only decreased the expression of NR2B mRNA and its associated protein, as demonstrated by real-time PCR and Western blotting, but also abolished formalin-induced pain behaviors in rat model. The peak effect occurred on day 3 for mRNA and day 7 for its protein, following i.t. injection of 5 microg of siRNA-NR2B. These data prove the feasibility of i.t. siRNAs in the investigation of functional gene expression in the context of whole animal behavior for the management of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- P-H Tan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
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Ge Q, Filip L, Bai A, Nguyen T, Eisen HN, Chen J. Inhibition of influenza virus production in virus-infected mice by RNA interference. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2004; 101:8676-81. [PMID: 15173599 PMCID: PMC423254 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0402486101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 327] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus infection is a major source of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Because the effectiveness of existing vaccines and antiviral drugs is limited, development of new treatment modalities is needed. Here, we show that short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) specific for conserved regions of influenza virus genes can prevent and treat influenza virus infection in mice. Virus production in lungs of infected mice is reduced by siRNAs given either before or after initiating virus infection, by using slow i.v. administration of small volumes containing siRNAs in complexes with a polycation carrier. Similar effects also are observed when mice are given DNA vectors i.v. or intranasally, from which siRNA precursors can be transcribed. Development of delivery systems that may be compatible with human use demonstrates the potential utility of siRNAs for prophylaxis and therapy of influenza virus infections in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Ge
- Center for Cancer Research and Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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48
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Oishi M, Sasaki S, Nagasaki Y, Kataoka K. pH-responsive oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN)-poly(ethylene glycol) conjugate through acid-labile beta-thiopropionate linkage: preparation and polyion complex micelle formation. Biomacromolecules 2003; 4:1426-32. [PMID: 12959615 DOI: 10.1021/bm034164u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
An oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) conjugated to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) through a pH-responsive ester linkage (PEG-ODN conjugate) was successfully synthesized by the Michael reaction of 3'-thiol-modified ODN with a heterobifunctional PEG bearing an acetal group at the alpha-end and an acrylate group at the omega-end (acetal-PEG-acrylate), aimed at the development of a novel ODN delivery system. The prepared PEG-ODN conjugate and linear-poy(ethyleneimine) (L-PEI) spontaneously associated to form a polyion complex (PIC) micelle whose diameter and polydispersity index micro(2)/Gamma(2)) were 102.5 nm and 0.096 as determined by DLS measurements, respectively. Both the PEG-ODN conjugate and PIC micelle showed cleavage of the ester linkage at the endosomal pH (=5.5), suggesting that the PIC micelle is anticipated to release the ODN in the intracellular compartment. Furthermore, the PEG-ODN conjugate in the PIC micelle was stable against deoxyribonuclase (DNase I) digestion and has no interaction with the serum component because of the steric stabilization of the highly dense PEG corona surrounding the PIC core. These characteristics of the PIC micelles entrapping the PEG-ODN conjugate are promising for their utility as a novel ODN delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoi Oishi
- Department of Materials Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8510, Japan
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49
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Regnström K, Ragnarsson EGE, Köping-Höggård M, Torstensson E, Nyblom H, Artursson P. PEI - a potent, but not harmless, mucosal immuno-stimulator of mixed T-helper cell response and FasL-mediated cell death in mice. Gene Ther 2003; 10:1575-83. [PMID: 12907949 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Polyethyleneimine (PEI) is one of the most effective gene delivery systems available today. However, very little is known about its ability to stimulate a systemic immune response and the molecular mechanisms thereof. However, this information is vital for the future development of new gene delivery systems. Here we address this issue by studying gene expression profiles from spleen lymphocytes after in vivo immunization of mice with PEI formulated with a reporter plasmid (PEI+) or the formulation alone (PEI-). PEI- was found to provoke the activation of genes with important immunostimulatory functions, but without the necessary costimulatory signals. PEI+ resulted in: a mixed Th1/Th2 response; activation of both CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells, with a larger effect on CD4(+); and FasL-mediated antigen-induced cell death. A comparison of the immune responses of PEI+ with that of the clinically used tetanus toxoid-aluminum phosphate vaccine showed that the DNA vaccine provoked a stronger immune response as compared to the protein vaccine. However, many genes involved in other cellular responses such as apoptosis, stress responses and oncogenesis were activated in PEI+, supporting the theory of immunostimulation by danger genes, but also pointing toward possible adverse reactions such as Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Regnström
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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50
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Wiseman JW, Goddard CA, McLelland D, Colledge WH. A comparison of linear and branched polyethylenimine (PEI) with DCChol/DOPE liposomes for gene delivery to epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo. Gene Ther 2003; 10:1654-62. [PMID: 12923564 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Polyethylenimine (PEI), a polycation with high ionic charge density, has recently been used as a gene therapy delivery agent. We have defined the optimal conditions for PEI-based transfection of airway epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo and used these conditions to restore Cl(-) channel activity in a CF mouse model. Three forms of PEI, a linear 22 kDa (ExGen 500) form and branched 25 or 50 kDa forms were evaluated. All forms of PEI significantly increased luciferase reporter gene expression compared to the liposome DCChol/DOPE in a human bronchial epithelial cell line (16HBE) irrespective of the extent of cell confluency. With subconfluent cells, gene expression was around 1000-, 200- and 25-fold higher than liposomes using linear 22, 25 and 50 kDa PEI, respectively. The transfection efficiency was reduced in confluent and polarized epithelial cells but linear 22 kDa PEI showed the smallest decrease and gave 8000-fold better transfection in polarized cells compared to liposomes. A comparison of linear 22 or 25 kDa PEI with DCChol/DOPE for airway delivery in vivo via intranasal instillation was also performed. Linear 22 kDa PEI gave significantly better luciferase reporter gene expression of 350-fold in the lung, 180-fold in the nose and 85-fold in the trachea compared to liposome. In contrast, the 25 kDa form of PEI was no better than DCChol/DOPE. Repeat dosing with linear 22 kDa PEI failed to give reporter gene delivery comparable to the initial dose. To establish that PEI can be used to deliver a physiologically relevent gene in vivo, we used it to restore Cl(-) secretion by CFTR gene delivery in the airways of a CF mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Wiseman
- 1Department of Physiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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