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Dastgerdi NK, Gumus N, Bayraktutan H, Jackson D, Polra K, McKay PF, Atyabi F, Dinarvand R, Shattock RJ, Martinez-Pomares L, Gurnani P, Alexander C. Charge neutralized poly(β-amino ester) polyplex nanoparticles for delivery of self-amplifying RNA. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:1409-1422. [PMID: 38419881 PMCID: PMC10898429 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00794d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Therapeutic self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) is a promising approach for disease treatment, as it can be administered in lower doses than messenger RNA (mRNA) to achieve comparable protein production levels. However, saRNA requires an appropriate delivery vehicle to protect it during transit and facilitate its transfection. A widely-adopted approach has been to use polycations to condense these large anionic macromolecules into polyplex nanoparticles, however their high charge density often elicits cytotoxic effects. In this study we postulated that we could improve the potency and tolerability of such delivery vehicles by co-formulating poly(β-amino ester)s saRNA polyplexes with a non-toxic anionic polymer, γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA) to neutralize partially this positive charge. Accordingly, we prepared a poly(β-amino ester) from 1,6-hexanedioldiacrylate (HDDA) and 4-aminobutanol (ABOL) and initially evaluated the physicochemical properties of the binary polyplexes (i.e. formed from polymer and saRNA only). Optimised binary polyplex formulations were then taken forward for preparation of ternary complexes containing pHDDA-ABOL, saRNA and γ-PGA. Our findings demonstrate that γ-PGA integration into polyplexes significantly enhanced transfection efficacy in HEK293T and A431 cells without affecting polyplex size. Notably, γ-PGA incorporation leads to a pronounced reduction in zeta potential, which reduced the toxicity of the ternary complexes in moDC, NIH3T3, and A431 cells. Furthermore, the presence of γ-PGA contributed to colloidal stability, reducing aggregation of the ternary complexes, as evidenced by insignificant changes in polydispersity index (PDI) after freeze-thaw cycles. Overall, these results suggest that incorporating the appropriate ratio of a polyanion such as γ-PGA with polycations in RNA delivery formulations is a promising way to improve the in vitro delivery of saRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazgol Karimi Dastgerdi
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Nurcan Gumus
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
| | - Hulya Bayraktutan
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
| | - Darryl Jackson
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
| | - Krunal Polra
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Section of Immunology of Infection, Imperial College London Norfolk Place London W21PG UK
| | - Paul F McKay
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Section of Immunology of Infection, Imperial College London Norfolk Place London W21PG UK
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Rassoul Dinarvand
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran 1417614315 Iran
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Section of Immunology of Infection, Imperial College London Norfolk Place London W21PG UK
| | - Luisa Martinez-Pomares
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
| | - Pratik Gurnani
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London 29-39 Brunswick Square London WC1N 1AX UK
| | - Cameron Alexander
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham NG7 2RD UK
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2
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Yang X, Xiong M, Fu X, Sun X. Bioactive materials for in vivo sweat gland regeneration. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:247-271. [PMID: 37637080 PMCID: PMC10457517 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss of sweat glands (SwGs) commonly associated with extensive skin defects is a leading cause of hyperthermia and heat stroke. In vivo tissue engineering possesses the potential to take use of the body natural ability to regenerate SwGs, making it more conducive to clinical translation. Despite recent advances in regenerative medicine, reconstructing SwG tissue with the same structure and function as native tissue remains challenging. Elucidating the SwG generation mechanism and developing biomaterials for in vivo tissue engineering is essential for understanding and developing in vivo SwG regenerative strategies. Here, we outline the cell biology associated with functional wound healing and the characteristics of bioactive materials. We critically summarize the recent progress in bioactive material-based cell modulation approaches for in vivo SwG regeneration, including the recruitment of endogenous cells to the skin lesion for SwG regeneration and in vivo cellular reprogramming for SwG regeneration. We discussed the re-establishment of microenvironment via bioactive material-mediated regulators. Besides, we offer promising perspectives for directing in situ SwG regeneration via bioactive material-based cell-free strategy, which is a simple and effective approach to regenerate SwG tissue with both fidelity of structure and function. Finally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of in vivo SwG regeneration in detail. The molecular mechanisms and cell fate modulation of in vivo SwG regeneration will provide further insights into the regeneration of patient-specific SwGs and the development of potential intervention strategies for gland-derived diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinling Yang
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College, China
- PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration, China
- Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, PR China
| | - Mingchen Xiong
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College, China
- PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration, China
- Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, PR China
| | - Xiaobing Fu
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College, China
- PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration, China
- Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Sun
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College, China
- PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration, China
- Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, PR China
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3
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Hayes G, Dias-Barbieri B, Yilmaz G, Shattock RJ, Becer CR. Poly(2-oxazoline)/saRNA Polyplexes for Targeted and Nonviral Gene Delivery. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:5142-5151. [PMID: 37792545 PMCID: PMC10646937 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
RNA delivery has been demonstrated to be a potent method of vaccine delivery, as demonstrated by the recent success of the COVID-19 vaccines. Polymers have been shown to be effective vehicles for RNA delivery, with poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) being the current gold standard for delivery. Nonetheless, PEI has toxicity concerns, and so finding alternatives is desirable. Poly(2-oxazoline)s are a promising alternative to PEI, as they are generally biocompatible and offer a high degree of control over the polymer structure. Here, we have synthesized an ionizable primary amine 2-oxazoline and combined it with a double bond containing oxazoline to synthesize a small library of charged statistical and block copolymers. The pendant double bonds were reacted further to decorate the polymers with glucose via a thiol-ene click reaction. All polymers were shown to have excellent cell viability, and the synthesized block polymers showed promising complexation efficiencies for the saRNA, demonstrating a clear structure-property relationship. The polymer transfection potential was tested in various cell lines, and a polymer composition with an amine/glucose ratio of 9:27 has demonstrated the best transfection potential across all cell lines tested. Overall, the results suggest that block polymers with a cationic segment and high levels of glycosylation have the best complexation efficiency and RNA expression levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Hayes
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Beatriz Dias-Barbieri
- Department
of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College
London, Norfolk Place, London W21PG, United Kingdom
| | - Gokhan Yilmaz
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Robin J. Shattock
- Department
of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College
London, Norfolk Place, London W21PG, United Kingdom
| | - C. Remzi Becer
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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4
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Yamaleyeva DN, Makita N, Hwang D, Haney MJ, Jordan R, Kabanov AV. Poly(2-oxazoline)-Based Polyplexes as a PEG-Free Plasmid DNA Delivery Platform. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2300177. [PMID: 37466165 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
The present study expands the versatility of cationic poly(2-oxazoline) (POx) copolymers as a polyethylene glycol (PEG)-free platform for gene delivery to immune cells, such as monocytes and macrophages. Several block copolymers are developed by varying nonionic hydrophilic blocks (poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) (pMeOx) or poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (pEtOx), cationic blocks, and an optional hydrophobic block (poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline) (iPrOx). The cationic blocks are produced by side chain modification of 2-methoxy-carboxyethyl-2-oxazoline (MestOx) block precursor with diethylenetriamine (DET) or tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (TREN). For the attachment of a targeting ligand, mannose, azide-alkyne cycloaddition click chemistry methods are employed. Of the two cationic side chains, polyplexes made with DET-containing copolymers transfect macrophages significantly better than those made with TREN-based copolymer. Likewise, nontargeted pEtOx-based diblock copolymer is more active in cell transfection than pMeOx-based copolymer. The triblock copolymer with hydrophobic block iPrOx performs poorly compared to the diblock copolymer which lacks this additional block. Surprisingly, attachment of a mannose ligand to either copolymer is inhibitory for transfection. Despite similarities in size and design, mannosylated polyplexes result in lower cell internalization compared to nonmannosylated polyplexes. Thus, PEG-free, nontargeted DET-, and pEtOx-based diblock copolymer outperforms other studied structures in the transfection of macrophages and displays transfection levels comparable to GeneJuice, a commercial nonlipid transfection reagent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina N Yamaleyeva
- Joint UNC-CH and NC State Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7575, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7575, USA
| | - Naoki Makita
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7575, USA
- Formulation Research & Development Laboratories, Technology Research & Development, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Suita, Osaka, 564-0053, Japan
| | - Duhyeong Hwang
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7575, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan, 31116, South Korea
| | - Matthew J Haney
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7575, USA
| | - Rainer Jordan
- Department Chemie, Technische Universität Dresden, Zellescher Weg 19, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexander V Kabanov
- Joint UNC-CH and NC State Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7575, USA
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7575, USA
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5
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Becker J, Terracciano R, Yilmaz G, Napier R, Becer CR. Step-Growth Glycopolymers with a Defined Tacticity for Selective Carbohydrate-Lectin Recognition. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:1924-1933. [PMID: 36976928 PMCID: PMC10091353 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Glycopolymers are potent candidates for biomedical applications by exploiting multivalent carbohydrate-lectin interactions. Owing to their specific recognition capabilities, glycosylated polymers can be utilized for targeted drug delivery to certain cell types bearing the corresponding lectin receptors. A fundamental challenge in glycopolymer research, however, is the specificity of recognition to receptors binding to the same sugar unit (e.g., mannose). Variation of polymer backbone chirality has emerged as an effective method to distinguish between lectins on a molecular level. Herein, we present a facile route toward producing glycopolymers with a defined tacticity based on a step-growth polymerization technique using click chemistry. A set of polymers have been fabricated and further functionalized with mannose moieties to enable lectin binding to receptors relevant to the immune system (mannose-binding lectin, dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing non-integrin, and dendritic and thymic epithelial cell-205). Surface plasmon resonance spectrometry was employed to determine the kinetic parameters of the step-growth glycopolymers. The results highlight the importance of structural complexity in advancing glycopolymer synthesis, yet multivalency remains a main driving force in lectin recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Becker
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | | | - Gokhan Yilmaz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Richard Napier
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - C Remzi Becer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
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6
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Harvey DJ. Analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry: An update for 2019-2020. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2022:e21806. [PMID: 36468275 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This review is the tenth update of the original article published in 1999 on the application of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry to the analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates and brings coverage of the literature to the end of 2020. Also included are papers that describe methods appropriate to analysis by MALDI, such as sample preparation techniques, even though the ionization method is not MALDI. The review is basically divided into three sections: (1) general aspects such as theory of the MALDI process, matrices, derivatization, MALDI imaging, fragmentation, quantification and the use of arrays. (2) Applications to various structural types such as oligo- and polysaccharides, glycoproteins, glycolipids, glycosides and biopharmaceuticals, and (3) other areas such as medicine, industrial processes and glycan synthesis where MALDI is extensively used. Much of the material relating to applications is presented in tabular form. The reported work shows increasing use of incorporation of new techniques such as ion mobility and the enormous impact that MALDI imaging is having. MALDI, although invented nearly 40 years ago is still an ideal technique for carbohydrate analysis and advancements in the technique and range of applications show little sign of diminishing.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Harvey
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
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7
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Yang X, Wei Y, Zheng L, You J, Li H, Gao L, Gong C, Yi C. Polyethyleneimine-based immunoadjuvants for designing cancer vaccines. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:8166-8180. [PMID: 36217765 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01358d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive efforts to improve the effectiveness of cancer vaccines, the lack of immunogenicity remains an issue. Adjuvants are required to enhance the immunogenicity of antigens and activate the immune response. However, only a few adjuvants with acceptable toxicity have sufficient potency for use in cancer vaccines, necessitating the discovery of potent adjuvants. The most well-known cationic polymer polyethyleneimine (PEI) acts as a carrier for delivering antigens, and as an immunoadjuvant for enhancing the innate and adaptive immunity. In this review, we have summarized PEI-based adjuvants and discussed how to improve and boost the immune response to vaccines. We further focused on PEI-based adjuvants in cancer vaccines. Finally, we have proposed the potential challenges and future issues of PEI-based adjuvants to elicit the effectiveness of cancer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yang
- Division of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yuanfeng Wei
- Division of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Lingnan Zheng
- Division of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Jia You
- Department of Oncology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Huawei Li
- Department of Oncology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ling Gao
- Department of Health Ward, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changyang Gong
- Division of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Cheng Yi
- Division of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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8
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Fang H, Chen Q. Applications and challenges of biomaterial mediated mRNA delivery. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2022; 3:428-444. [PMID: 36071982 PMCID: PMC9446159 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2022.00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of gene therapy technology and the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics have attracted more and more attention, and the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency authorization. To improve the delivery efficiency of mRNA in vitro and in vivo, researchers have developed a variety of mRNA carriers and explored different administration routes. This review will systematically introduce the types of mRNA vectors, routes of administration, storage methods, safety of mRNA therapeutics, and the type of diseases that mRNA drugs are applied for. Finally, some suggestions are supplied on the development direction of mRNA therapeutic agents in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huapan Fang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu, China
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9
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The nano delivery systems and applications of mRNA. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 227:113910. [PMID: 34689071 PMCID: PMC8497955 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The current COVID-19 epidemic has greatly accelerated the application of mRNA technology to our real world, and during this battle mRNA has proven it's unique advantages compared to traditional biopharmaceutical and vaccine technology. In order to overcome mRNA instability in human physiological environments, mRNA chemical modifications and nano delivery systems are two key factors for their in vivo applications. In this review, we would like to summarize the challenges for clinical translation of mRNA-based therapeutics, with an emphasis on recent advances in innovative materials and delivery strategies. The nano delivery systems include lipid delivery systems (lipid nanoparticles and liposomes), polymer complexes, micelles, cationic peptides and so on. The similarities and differences of lipid nanoparticles and liposomes are also discussed. In addition, this review also present the applications of mRNA to other areas than COVID-19 vaccine, such as infectious diseases, tumors, and cardiovascular disease, for which a variety of candidate vaccines or drugs have entered clinical trials. Furthermore, mRNA was found that it might be used to treat some genetic disease, overcome the immaturity of the immune system due to the small fetal size in utero, treat some neurological diseases that are difficult to be treated surgically, even be used in advancing the translation of iPSC technology et al. In short, mRNA has a wide range of applications, and its era has just begun.
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10
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Zhao T, Terracciano R, Becker J, Monaco A, Yilmaz G, Becer CR. Hierarchy of Complex Glycomacromolecules: From Controlled Topologies to Biomedical Applications. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:543-575. [PMID: 34982551 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c01294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Carbohydrates bearing a distinct complexity use a special code (Glycocode) to communicate with carbohydrate-binding proteins at a high precision to manipulate biological activities in complex biological environments. The level of complexity in carbohydrate-containing macromolecules controls the amount and specificity of information that can be stored in biomacromolecules. Therefore, a better understanding of the glycocode is crucial to open new areas of biomedical applications by controlling or manipulating the interaction between immune cells and pathogens in terms of trafficking and signaling, which would become a powerful tool to prevent infectious diseases. Even though a certain level of progress has been achieved over the past decade, synthetic glycomacromolecules are still lagging far behind naturally existing glycans in terms of complexity and precision because of insufficient and inefficient synthetic techniques. Currently, specific targeting at a cellular level using synthetic glycomacromolecules is still challenging. It is obvious that multidisciplinary collaborations are essential between different specialized disciplines to enhance the carbohydrate receptor-targeting paradigm for new biomedical applications. In this Perspective, recent developments in the synthesis of sophisticated glycomacromolecules are highlighted, and their biological and biomedical applications are also discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tieshuai Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Roberto Terracciano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Jonas Becker
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandra Monaco
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Gokhan Yilmaz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - C Remzi Becer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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11
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Maruggi G, Ulmer JB, Rappuoli R, Yu D. Self-amplifying mRNA-Based Vaccine Technology and Its Mode of Action. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:31-70. [PMID: 33861374 DOI: 10.1007/82_2021_233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Self-amplifying mRNAs derived from the genomes of positive-strand RNA viruses have recently come into focus as a promising technology platform for vaccine development. Non-virally delivered self-amplifying mRNA vaccines have the potential to be highly versatile, potent, streamlined, scalable, and inexpensive. By amplifying their genome and the antigen encoding mRNA in the host cell, the self-amplifying mRNA mimics a viral infection, resulting in sustained levels of the target protein combined with self-adjuvanting innate immune responses, ultimately leading to potent and long-lasting antigen-specific humoral and cellular immune responses. Moreover, in principle, any eukaryotic sequence could be encoded by self-amplifying mRNA without the need to change the manufacturing process, thereby enabling a much faster and flexible research and development timeline than the current vaccines and hence a quicker response to emerging infectious diseases. This chapter highlights the rapid progress made in using non-virally delivered self-amplifying mRNA-based vaccines against infectious diseases in animal models. We provide an overview of the unique attributes of this vaccine approach, summarize the growing body of work defining its mechanism of action, discuss the current challenges and latest advances, and highlight perspectives about the future of this promising technology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dong Yu
- GSK, 14200 Shady Grove Road, Rockville, MD, 20850, USA. .,Dynavax Technologies, 2100 Powell Street Suite, Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA.
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12
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Tortajada L, Felip C, Vicent MJ. Polymer-based Non-viral Vectors for Gene Therapy in the Skin. Polym Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d1py01485d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy has emerged as a versatile technique with the potential to treat a range of human diseases; however, examples of the topical application of gene therapy as a treatment...
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13
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Zeng C, Zhang C, Walker PG, Dong Y. Formulation and Delivery Technologies for mRNA Vaccines. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:71-110. [PMID: 32483657 PMCID: PMC8195316 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have become a versatile technology for the prevention of infectious diseases and the treatment of cancers. In the vaccination process, mRNA formulation and delivery strategies facilitate effective expression and presentation of antigens, and immune stimulation. mRNA vaccines have been delivered in various formats: encapsulation by delivery carriers, such as lipid nanoparticles, polymers, peptides, free mRNA in solution, and ex vivo through dendritic cells. Appropriate delivery materials and formulation methods often boost the vaccine efficacy which is also influenced by the selection of a proper administration route. Co-delivery of multiple mRNAs enables synergistic effects and further enhances immunity in some cases. In this chapter, we overview the recent progress and existing challenges in the formulation and delivery technologies of mRNA vaccines with perspectives for future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxi Zeng
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chengxiang Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Patrick G Walker
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA. .,The Center for Clinical and Translational Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA. .,Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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14
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Hayes G, Drain B, Becer CR. Multiarm Core Cross-Linked Star-Shaped Poly(2-oxazoline)s Using a Bisfunctional 2-Oxazoline Monomer. Macromolecules 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.1c02245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Graham Hayes
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Ben Drain
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - C. Remzi Becer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
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15
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Krhač Levačić A, Berger S, Müller J, Wegner A, Lächelt U, Dohmen C, Rudolph C, Wagner E. Dynamic mRNA polyplexes benefit from bioreducible cleavage sites for in vitro and in vivo transfer. J Control Release 2021; 339:27-40. [PMID: 34547258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Currently, messenger RNA (mRNA)-based lipid nanoparticle formulations revolutionize the clinical field. Cationic polymer-based complexes (polyplexes) represent an alternative compound class for mRNA delivery. After establishing branched polyethylenimine with a succinylation degree of 10% (succPEI) as highly effective positive mRNA transfection standard, a diverse library of PEI-like peptides termed sequence-defined oligoaminoamides (OAAs) was screened for mRNA delivery. Notably, sequences, which had previously been identified as potent plasmid DNA (pDNA) or small-interfering RNA (siRNA) carriers, displayed only moderate mRNA transfection activity. A second round of screening combined the cationizable building block succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine and histidines for endosomal buffering, tyrosine tripeptides and various fatty acids for mRNA polyplex stabilization, as well as redox-sensitive units for programmed intracellular release. For the tested OAA carriers, balancing of extracellular stability, endosomal lytic activity, and intracellular release capability was found to be of utmost importance for optimum mRNA transfection efficiency. OAAs with T-shape topology containing two oleic acids as well-stabilizing fatty acids, attached via a dynamic bioreducible building block, displayed superior activity with up to 1000-fold increased transfection efficiency compared to their non-reducible analogs. In the absence of the dynamic linkage, incorporation of shorter less stabilizing fatty acids could only partly compensate for mRNA delivery. Highest GFP expression and the largest fraction of transfected cells (96%) could be detected for the bioreducible OAA with incorporated histidines and a dioleoyl motif, outperforming all other tested carriers as well as the positive control succPEI. The good in vitro performance of the dynamic lead structure was verified in vivo upon intratracheal administration of mRNA complexes in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Krhač Levačić
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Simone Berger
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Judith Müller
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Andrea Wegner
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany.
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16
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Sallam MA, Prakash S, Kumbhojkar N, Shields CW, Mitragotri S. Formulation-based approaches for dermal delivery of vaccines and therapeutic nucleic acids: Recent advances and future perspectives. Bioeng Transl Med 2021; 6:e10215. [PMID: 34589595 PMCID: PMC8459604 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing variety of biological macromolecules are in development for use as active ingredients in topical therapies and vaccines. Dermal delivery of biomacromolecules offers several advantages compared to other delivery methods, including improved targetability, reduced systemic toxicity, and decreased degradation of drugs. However, this route of delivery is hampered by the barrier function of the skin. Recently, a large body of research has been directed toward improving the delivery of macromolecules to the skin, ranging from nucleic acids (NAs) to antigens, using noninvasive means. In this review, we discuss the latest formulation-based efforts to deliver antigens and NAs for vaccination and treatment of skin diseases. We provide a perspective of their advantages, limitations, and potential for clinical translation. The delivery platforms discussed in this review may provide formulation scientists and clinicians with a better vision of the alternatives for dermal delivery of biomacromolecules, which may facilitate the development of new patient-friendly prophylactic and therapeutic medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa A. Sallam
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
- Present address:
Department of Industrial PharmacyFaculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria UniversityEgypt
| | - Supriya Prakash
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Ninad Kumbhojkar
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Charles Wyatt Shields
- Department of Chemical & Biological EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderColoradoUSA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
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17
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Kumar R, Santa Chalarca CF, Bockman MR, Bruggen CV, Grimme CJ, Dalal RJ, Hanson MG, Hexum JK, Reineke TM. Polymeric Delivery of Therapeutic Nucleic Acids. Chem Rev 2021; 121:11527-11652. [PMID: 33939409 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The advent of genome editing has transformed the therapeutic landscape for several debilitating diseases, and the clinical outlook for gene therapeutics has never been more promising. The therapeutic potential of nucleic acids has been limited by a reliance on engineered viral vectors for delivery. Chemically defined polymers can remediate technological, regulatory, and clinical challenges associated with viral modes of gene delivery. Because of their scalability, versatility, and exquisite tunability, polymers are ideal biomaterial platforms for delivering nucleic acid payloads efficiently while minimizing immune response and cellular toxicity. While polymeric gene delivery has progressed significantly in the past four decades, clinical translation of polymeric vehicles faces several formidable challenges. The aim of our Account is to illustrate diverse concepts in designing polymeric vectors towards meeting therapeutic goals of in vivo and ex vivo gene therapy. Here, we highlight several classes of polymers employed in gene delivery and summarize the recent work on understanding the contributions of chemical and architectural design parameters. We touch upon characterization methods used to visualize and understand events transpiring at the interfaces between polymer, nucleic acids, and the physiological environment. We conclude that interdisciplinary approaches and methodologies motivated by fundamental questions are key to designing high-performing polymeric vehicles for gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | | | - Matthew R Bockman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Craig Van Bruggen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Christian J Grimme
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Rishad J Dalal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Mckenna G Hanson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Joseph K Hexum
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Theresa M Reineke
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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18
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Rosa SS, Prazeres DMF, Azevedo AM, Marques MPC. mRNA vaccines manufacturing: Challenges and bottlenecks. Vaccine 2021; 39:2190-2200. [PMID: 33771389 PMCID: PMC7987532 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines are one of the most important tools in public health and play an important role in infectious diseases control. Owing to its precision, safe profile and flexible manufacturing, mRNA vaccines are reaching the stoplight as a new alternative to conventional vaccines. In fact, mRNA vaccines were the technology of choice for many companies to combat the Covid-19 pandemic, and it was the first technology to be approved in both United States and in Europe Union as a prophylactic treatment. Additionally, mRNA vaccines are being studied in the clinic to treat a number of diseases including cancer, HIV, influenza and even genetic disorders. The increased demand for mRNA vaccines requires a technology platform and cost-effective manufacturing process with a well-defined product characterisation. Large scale production of mRNA vaccines consists in a 1 or 2-step in vitro reaction followed by a purification platform with multiple steps that can include Dnase digestion, precipitation, chromatography or tangential flow filtration. In this review we describe the current state-of-art of mRNA vaccines, focusing on the challenges and bottlenecks of manufacturing that need to be addressed to turn this new vaccination technology into an effective, fast and cost-effective response to emerging health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Sousa Rosa
- Department of Bioengineering, iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Duarte M F Prazeres
- Department of Bioengineering, iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Azevedo
- Department of Bioengineering, iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Marco P C Marques
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gordon Street, London WC1H 0AH, United Kingdom.
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19
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Blakney AK, McKay PF, Bouton CR, Hu K, Samnuan K, Shattock RJ. Innate Inhibiting Proteins Enhance Expression and Immunogenicity of Self-Amplifying RNA. Mol Ther 2021; 29:1174-1185. [PMID: 33352107 PMCID: PMC7935664 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) is a cutting-edge platform for both nucleic acid vaccines and therapeutics. saRNA is self-adjuvanting, as it activates types I and III interferon (IFN), which enhances the immunogenicity of RNA vaccines but can also lead to inhibition of translation. In this study, we screened a library of saRNA constructs with cis-encoded innate inhibiting proteins (IIPs) and determined the effect on protein expression and immunogenicity. We observed that the PIV-5 V and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) ORF4a proteins enhance protein expression 100- to 500-fold in vitro in IFN-competent HeLa and MRC5 cells. We found that the MERS-CoV ORF4a protein partially abates dose nonlinearity in vivo, and that ruxolitinib, a potent Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) inhibitor, but not the IIPs, enhances protein expression of saRNA in vivo. Both the PIV-5 V and MERS-CoV ORF4a proteins were found to enhance the percentage of resident cells in human skin explants expressing saRNA and completely rescued dose nonlinearity of saRNA. Finally, we observed that the MERS-CoV ORF4a increased the rabies virus (RABV)-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) titer and neutralization half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) by ∼10-fold in rabbits, but not in mice or rats. These experiments provide a proof of concept that IIPs can be directly encoded into saRNA vectors and effectively abate the nonlinear dose dependency and enhance immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Blakney
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W21PG, UK.
| | - Paul F McKay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W21PG, UK
| | - Clément R Bouton
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W21PG, UK
| | - Kai Hu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W21PG, UK
| | - Karnyart Samnuan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W21PG, UK
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W21PG, UK.
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20
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Liu R, Zuo R, Hudalla GA. Harnessing molecular recognition for localized drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 170:238-260. [PMID: 33484737 PMCID: PMC8274479 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A grand challenge in drug delivery is providing the right dose, at the right anatomic location, for the right duration of time to maximize therapeutic efficacy while minimizing off-target toxicity and other deleterious side-effects. Two general modalities are receiving broad attention for localized drug delivery. In the first, referred to as "targeted accumulation", drugs or drug carriers are engineered to have targeting moieties that promote their accumulation at a specific tissue site from circulation. In the second, referred to as "local anchoring", drugs or drug carriers are inserted directly into the tissue site of interest where they persist for a specified duration of time. This review surveys recent advances in harnessing molecular recognition between proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates to mediate targeted accumulation and local anchoring of drugs and drug carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renjie Liu
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Ran Zuo
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Gregory A Hudalla
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
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21
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Blakney AK, Ip S, Geall AJ. An Update on Self-Amplifying mRNA Vaccine Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:97. [PMID: 33525396 PMCID: PMC7911542 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review will explore the four major pillars required for design and development of an saRNA vaccine: Antigen design, vector design, non-viral delivery systems, and manufacturing (both saRNA and lipid nanoparticles (LNP)). We report on the major innovations, preclinical and clinical data reported in the last five years and will discuss future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Blakney
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Shell Ip
- Precision NanoSystems Inc., Vancouver, BC V6P 6T7, Canada; (S.I.); (A.J.G.)
| | - Andrew J. Geall
- Precision NanoSystems Inc., Vancouver, BC V6P 6T7, Canada; (S.I.); (A.J.G.)
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22
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Bloom K, van den Berg F, Arbuthnot P. Self-amplifying RNA vaccines for infectious diseases. Gene Ther 2020; 28:117-129. [PMID: 33093657 PMCID: PMC7580817 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-00204-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Vaccinology is shifting toward synthetic RNA platforms which allow for rapid, scalable, and cell-free manufacturing of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines. The simple development pipeline is based on in vitro transcription of antigen-encoding sequences or immunotherapies as synthetic RNA transcripts, which are then formulated for delivery. This approach may enable a quicker response to emerging disease outbreaks, as is evident from the swift pursuit of RNA vaccine candidates for the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Both conventional and self-amplifying RNAs have shown protective immunization in preclinical studies against multiple infectious diseases including influenza, RSV, Rabies, Ebola, and HIV-1. Self-amplifying RNAs have shown enhanced antigen expression at lower doses compared to conventional mRNA, suggesting this technology may improve immunization. This review will explore how self-amplifying RNAs are emerging as important vaccine candidates for infectious diseases, the advantages of synthetic manufacturing approaches, and their potential for preventing and treating chronic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie Bloom
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Private Bag 3, WITS, Johannesburg, 2050, South Africa.
| | - Fiona van den Berg
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Private Bag 3, WITS, Johannesburg, 2050, South Africa
| | - Patrick Arbuthnot
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Private Bag 3, WITS, Johannesburg, 2050, South Africa
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23
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Gurnani P, Blakney AK, Terracciano R, Petch JE, Blok AJ, Bouton CR, McKay PF, Shattock RJ, Alexander C. The In Vitro, Ex Vivo, and In Vivo Effect of Polymer Hydrophobicity on Charge-Reversible Vectors for Self-Amplifying RNA. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:3242-3253. [PMID: 32644777 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c00698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RNA technology has the potential to revolutionize vaccination. However, the lack of clear structure-property relationships in relevant biological models mean there is no clear consensus on the chemical motifs necessary to improve RNA delivery. In this work, we describe the synthesis of a series of copolymers based on the self-hydrolyzing charge-reversible polycation poly(dimethylaminoethyl acrylate) (pDMAEA), varying the lipophilicity of the additional co-monomers. All copolymers formed stable polyplexes, showing efficient complexation with model nucleic acids from nitrogen/phosphate (N/P) ratios of N/P = 5, with more hydrophobic complexes exhibiting slower charge reversal and disassembly compared to hydrophilic analogues. The more hydrophobic copolymers outperformed hydrophilic versions, homopolymer controls and the reference standard polymer (polyethylenimine), in transfection assays on 2D cell monolayers, albeit with significantly higher toxicities. Similarly, hydrophobic derivatives displayed up to a 4-fold higher efficacy in terms of the numbers of cells expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP+) cells in ex vivo human skin (10%) compared to free RNA (2%), attributed to transfection enrichment in epithelial cells. In contrast, in a mouse model, we observed the reverse trend in terms of RNA transfection, with no observable protein production in more hydrophobic analogues, whereas hydrophilic copolymers induced the highest transfection in vivo. Overall, our results suggest an important relationship between the vector lipophilicity and RNA transfection in vaccine settings, with polymer biocompatibility potentially a key parameter in effective in vivo protein production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratik Gurnani
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kindom
| | - Anna K Blakney
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, School of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Praed Street, London W2 1NY, United Kindom
| | - Roberto Terracciano
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kindom.,Drug Delivery Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Joshua E Petch
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kindom
| | - Andrew J Blok
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kindom
| | - Clément R Bouton
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, School of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Praed Street, London W2 1NY, United Kindom
| | - Paul F McKay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, School of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Praed Street, London W2 1NY, United Kindom
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, School of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Praed Street, London W2 1NY, United Kindom
| | - Cameron Alexander
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kindom
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24
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Gurnani P, Blakney AK, Yeow J, Bouton CR, Shattock RJ, Stevens MM, Alexander C. An improved synthesis of poly(amidoamine)s for complexation with self-amplifying RNA and effective transfection. Polym Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0py00912a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Aza-Michael addition to synthesise poly(amidoamines) was optimised to minimise appearance of bimodal molecular weight distributions caused by a radical-branching side-reaction. This significantly improved cellular delivery of a model self-amplifying RNA vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratik Gurnani
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation
- School of Pharmacy
- University of Nottingham
- UK
| | - Anna K. Blakney
- Department of Infectious Disease
- Imperial College London
- School of Medicine
- St Mary's Hospital
- London W2 1NY
| | - Jonathan Yeow
- Department of Materials and the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London
- SW7 2AZ London
- UK
| | - Clément R. Bouton
- Department of Infectious Disease
- Imperial College London
- School of Medicine
- St Mary's Hospital
- London W2 1NY
| | - Robin J. Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease
- Imperial College London
- School of Medicine
- St Mary's Hospital
- London W2 1NY
| | - Molly M. Stevens
- Department of Materials and the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London
- SW7 2AZ London
- UK
| | - Cameron Alexander
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation
- School of Pharmacy
- University of Nottingham
- UK
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