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Hakami A, Narasimhan K, Comini G, Thiele J, Werner C, Dowd E, Newland B. Cryogel microcarriers for sustained local delivery of growth factors to the brain. J Control Release 2024; 369:404-419. [PMID: 38508528 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Neurotrophic growth factors such as glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have been considered as potential therapeutic candidates for neurodegenerative disorders due to their important role in modulating the growth and survival of neurons. However, clinical translation remains elusive, as their large size hinders translocation across the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and their short half-life in vivo necessitates repeated administrations. Local delivery to the brain offers a potential route to the target site but requires a suitable drug-delivery system capable of releasing these proteins in a controlled and sustained manner. Herein, we develop a cryogel microcarrier delivery system which takes advantage of the heparin-binding properties of GDNF and BDNF, to reversibly bind/release these growth factors via electrostatic interactions. Droplet microfluidics and subzero temperature polymerization was used to create monodisperse cryogels with varying degrees of negative charge and an average diameter of 20 μm. By tailoring the inclusion of 3-sulfopropyl acrylate (SPA) as a negatively charged moiety, the release duration of these two growth factors could be adjusted to range from weeks to half a year. 80% SPA cryogels and 20% SPA cryogels were selected to load GDNF and BDNF respectively, for the subsequent biological studies. Cell culture studies demonstrated that these cryogel microcarriers were cytocompatible with neuronal and microglial cell lines, as well as primary neural cultures. Furthermore, in vivo studies confirmed their biocompatibility after administration into the brain, as well as their ability to deliver, retain and release GDNF and BDNF in the striatum. Overall, this study highlights the potential of using cryogel microcarriers for long-term delivery of neurotrophic growth factors to the brain for neurodegenerative disorder therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abrar Hakami
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3NB, UK; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kaushik Narasimhan
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics and Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland
| | - Giulia Comini
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics and Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland
| | - Julian Thiele
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., 01069 Dresden, Germany; Institute of Chemistry, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Werner
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Eilís Dowd
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics and Galway Neuroscience Centre, University of Galway, H91 W5P7 Galway, Ireland.
| | - Ben Newland
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3NB, UK.
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2
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Li Z, Yong H, Wang K, Zhou YN, Lyu J, Liang L, Zhou D. (Controlled) Free radical (co)polymerization of multivinyl monomers: strategies, topological structures and biomedical applications. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:4142-4157. [PMID: 36919482 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc00250k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Free radical (co)polymerization (FRP/FRcP) of multivinyl monomers (MVMs) has emerged as a powerful strategy for the synthesis of chemically and topologically complex polymers due to its unique reaction kinetics, which enables the preparation of polymers with multiple functional groups and novel macromolecular structures. However, conventional FRP/FRcP of MVMs inevitably leads to insoluble crosslinked materials. Therefore, the development of advanced strategies for the controlled polymerization of MVMs is essential for the preparation of chemically and topologically complex polymers. In this review, we introduce the gelation mechanism of conventional FRP of MVMs and present the strategies of controlled polymerization of MVMs for the preparation of chemically and topologically complex polymers. We also discuss polymers with unique topologies synthesized by controlled polymerization of MVMs, such as crosslinked networks, (hyper)branched, star, cyclic, and single-chain cyclized/knotted structures. Finally, biomedical applications of various advanced polymeric materials prepared by controlled polymerization of MVMs are highlighted and the challenges is this field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Li
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
| | - Haiyang Yong
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
| | - Kaixuan Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
| | - Ya-Nan Zhou
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
| | - Jing Lyu
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Lirong Liang
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China.
| | - Dezhong Zhou
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
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3
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Gao Y, Zhou D, Lyu J, A S, Xu Q, Newland B, Matyjaszewski K, Tai H, Wang W. Complex polymer architectures through free-radical polymerization of multivinyl monomers. Nat Rev Chem 2020; 4:194-212. [PMID: 37128047 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-020-0170-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The construction of complex polymer architectures with well-defined topology, composition and functionality has been extensively explored as the molecular basis for the development of modern polymer materials. The unique reaction kinetics of free-radical polymerization leads to the concurrent formation of crosslinks between polymer chains and rings within an individual chain and, thus, free-radical (co)polymerization of multivinyl monomers provides a facile method to manipulate chain topology and functionality. Regulating the relative contribution of these intermolecular and intramolecular chain-propagation reactions is the key to the construction of architecturally complex polymers. This can be achieved through the design of new monomers or by spatially or kinetically controlling crosslinking reactions. These mechanisms enable the synthesis of various polymer architectures, including linear, cyclized, branched and star polymer chains, as well as crosslinked networks. In this Review, we highlight some of the contemporary experimental strategies to prepare complex polymer architectures using radical polymerization of multivinyl monomers. We also examine the recent development of characterization techniques for sub-chain connections in such complex macromolecules. Finally, we discuss how these crosslinking reactions have been engineered to generate advanced polymer materials for use in a variety of biomedical applications.
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Liu S, Gao Y, Zhou D, Zeng M, Alshehri F, Newland B, Lyu J, O'Keeffe-Ahern J, Greiser U, Guo T, Zhang F, Wang W. Highly branched poly(β-amino ester) delivery of minicircle DNA for transfection of neurodegenerative disease related cells. Nat Commun 2019; 10:3307. [PMID: 31341171 PMCID: PMC6656726 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11190-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Current therapies for most neurodegenerative disorders are only symptomatic in nature and do not change the course of the disease. Gene therapy plays an important role in disease modifying therapeutic strategies. Herein, we have designed and optimized a series of highly branched poly(β-amino ester)s (HPAEs) containing biodegradable disulfide units in the HPAE backbone (HPAESS) and guanidine moieties (HPAESG) at the extremities. The optimized polymers are used to deliver minicircle DNA to multipotent adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) and astrocytes, and high transfection efficiency is achieved (77% in human ADSCs and 52% in primary astrocytes) whilst preserving over 90% cell viability. Furthermore, the top-performing candidate mediates high levels of nerve growth factor (NGF) secretion from astrocytes, causing neurite outgrowth from a model neuron cell line. This synergistic gene delivery system provides a viable method for highly efficient non-viral transfection of ADSCs and astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Liu
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongsheng Gao
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dezhong Zhou
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland.
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 710049, Xi'an, China.
| | - Ming Zeng
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fatma Alshehri
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ben Newland
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, CF103AT, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jing Lyu
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jonathan O'Keeffe-Ahern
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Udo Greiser
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tianying Guo
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials, Ministry of Education, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, China.
| | - Fengzhi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, 310014, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenxin Wang
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, 4, Dublin, Ireland.
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 310027, Hangzhou, China.
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6
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Rusu AG, Chiriac AP, Nita LE, Bercea M, Tudorachi N, Ghilan A, Pamfil D, Rusu D, Cojocaru FD. Interpenetrated polymer network with modified chitosan in composition and self-healing properties. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 132:374-384. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.03.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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7
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Design of cyclodextrin-based systems for intervention execution. DELIVERY OF THERAPEUTICS FOR BIOGERONTOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS 2019. [PMCID: PMC7150343 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816485-3.00005-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Technologies for nucleic acid delivery have displayed high practical potential in mediating genetic manipulation to modulate metabolic pathways to combat aging. In the previous chapter, we have delineated a series of techniques for designing and developing polymeric vectors as nonviral carriers. Based on what we have discussed, this chapter will introduce how the delivery performance and versatility of polymeric vectors can be further enhanced by using cyclodextrins (CDs). Over the years, CDs have shown promising application potential in different areas, ranging from controlled drug release to chiral separation of basic drugs. These applications are largely mediated by the ability of CDs to undergo host–guest inclusion complexation. Upon incorporation of CDs into the design of a polymeric vector, not only can the flexibility of the design be increased, but the development of a multifunctional carrier for genetic manipulation can also be facilitated.
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8
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Joshi CR, Raghavan V, Vijayaraghavalu S, Gao Y, Saraswathy M, Labhasetwar V, Ghorpade A. Reaching for the Stars in the Brain: Polymer-Mediated Gene Delivery to Human Astrocytes. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 12:645-657. [PMID: 30081235 PMCID: PMC6082920 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes, the "star-shaped" glial cells, are appealing gene-delivery targets to treat neurological diseases due to their diverse roles in brain homeostasis and disease. Cationic polymers have successfully delivered genes to mammalian cells and hence present a viable, non-immunogenic alternative to widely used viral vectors. In this study, we investigated the gene delivery potential of a series of arginine- and polyethylene glycol-modified, siloxane-based polyethylenimine analogs in primary cultured human neural cells (neurons and astrocytes) and in mice. Plasmid DNAs encoding luciferase reporter were used to measure gene expression. We hypothesized that polyplexes with arginine would help in cellular transport of the DNA, including across the blood-brain barrier; polyethylene glycol will stabilize polyethylenimine and reduce its toxicity while maintaining its DNA-condensing ability. Polyplexes were non-toxic to human neural cells and red blood cells. Cellular uptake of polyplexes and sustained gene expression were seen in human astrocytes as well as in mouse brains post-intravenous-injections. The polyplexes also delivered and expressed genes driven by astrocyte-restricted glial fibrillary acidic protein promoters, which are weaker than viral promoters. To our knowledge, the presented work validates a biocompatible and effective polymer-facilitated gene-delivery system for both human brain cells and mice for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaitanya R Joshi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Vijay Raghavan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sivakumar Vijayaraghavalu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yue Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Manju Saraswathy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Vinod Labhasetwar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Anuja Ghorpade
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA.
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9
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Yen A, Cheng Y, Sylvestre M, Gustafson HH, Puri S, Pun SH. Serum Nuclease Susceptibility of mRNA Cargo in Condensed Polyplexes. Mol Pharm 2018; 15:2268-2276. [PMID: 29672061 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.8b00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a biomolecule with a wide range of promising clinical applications. However, the unstable nature of mRNA and its susceptibility to degradation by ribonucleases (RNases) necessitate the use of specialized formulations for delivery. Polycations are an emerging class of synthetic carriers capable of packaging nucleic acids, and may serve as suitable RNase-resistant formulations for mRNA administration. Here, we explore the application of VIPER and sunflower polycations, two polycations previously synthesized by our group, for the delivery of mRNA in comparison to branched poly(ethylenimine); all three polycations have been shown to efficiently deliver plasmid DNA (pDNA) to cultured cells. Despite successful mRNA condensation and packaging, transfection studies reveal that these three polycations can only efficiently deliver mRNA under serum-free conditions, while pDNA delivery is achieved even in the presence of serum. RNase resistance studies confirm that nuclease degradation of mRNA cargo remains a significant barrier to mRNA delivery using these polycations. These results emphasize the need for additional strategies for nuclease protection of mRNA cargo beyond electrostatic complexation with polycation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Yen
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Washington , Seattle , WA 98195 , United States
| | - Yilong Cheng
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Washington , Seattle , WA 98195 , United States.,Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Science , Xi'an Jiaotong University , Xi'an 710049 , P.R. China
| | - Meilyn Sylvestre
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Washington , Seattle , WA 98195 , United States
| | - Heather H Gustafson
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Washington , Seattle , WA 98195 , United States
| | - Sanyogitta Puri
- Advanced Drug Delivery, Pharmaceutical Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit , AstraZeneca , Cambridge CB4 OWG , U.K
| | - Suzie H Pun
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Washington , Seattle , WA 98195 , United States
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10
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Moriarty N, Dowd E. Brain repair for Parkinson's disease: is the answer in the matrix? Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:1187-1188. [PMID: 30028323 PMCID: PMC6065244 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.235027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Moriarty
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics and Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Eilís Dowd
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics and Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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11
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Moriarty N, Pandit A, Dowd E. Encapsulation of primary dopaminergic neurons in a GDNF-loaded collagen hydrogel increases their survival, re-innervation and function after intra-striatal transplantation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16033. [PMID: 29167483 PMCID: PMC5700093 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15970-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor graft survival limits the use of primary dopaminergic neurons for neural repair in Parkinson’s disease. Injectable hydrogels have the potential to significantly improve the outcome of such reparative approaches by providing a physical matrix for cell encapsulation which can be further enriched with pro-survival factors. Therefore, this study sought to determine the survival and efficacy of primary dopaminergic grafts after intra-striatal delivery in a glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF)-loaded collagen hydrogel in a rat model of Parkinson’s disease. After intra-striatal transplantation into the lesioned striatum, the GDNF-enriched collagen hydrogel significantly improved the survival of dopaminergic neurons in the graft (5-fold), increased their capacity for striatal re-innervation (3-fold), and enhanced their functional efficacy. Additional studies suggested that this was due to the hydrogel’s ability to retain GDNF in the microenvironment of the graft, and to protect the transplanted cells from the host immune response. In conclusion, the encapsulation of dopaminergic neurons in a GDNF-loaded hydrogel dramatically increased their survival and function, providing further evidence of the potential of biomaterials for neural transplantation and brain repair in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Moriarty
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- CÚRAM Centre for Research in Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Eilís Dowd
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.
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12
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Destination Brain: the Past, Present, and Future of Therapeutic Gene Delivery. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2017; 12:51-83. [PMID: 28160121 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-016-9724-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurological diseases and disorders (NDDs) present a significant societal burden and currently available drug- and biological-based therapeutic strategies have proven inadequate to alleviate it. Gene therapy is a suitable alternative to treat NDDs compared to conventional systems since it can be tailored to specifically alter select gene expression, reverse disease phenotype and restore normal function. The scope of gene therapy has broadened over the years with the advent of RNA interference and genome editing technologies. Consequently, encouraging results from central nervous system (CNS)-targeted gene delivery studies have led to their transition from preclinical to clinical trials. As we shift to an exciting gene therapy era, a retrospective of available literature on CNS-associated gene delivery is in order. This review is timely in this regard, since it analyzes key challenges and major findings from the last two decades and evaluates future prospects of brain gene delivery. We emphasize major areas consisting of physiological and pharmacological challenges in gene therapy, function-based selection of a ideal cellular target(s), available therapy modalities, and diversity of viral vectors and nanoparticles as vehicle systems. Further, we present plausible answers to key questions such as strategies to circumvent low blood-brain barrier permeability and most suitable CNS cell types for targeting. We compare and contrast pros and cons of the tested viral vectors in the context of delivery systems used in past and current clinical trials. Gene vector design challenges are also evaluated in the context of cell-specific promoters. Key challenges and findings reported for recent gene therapy clinical trials, assessing viral vectors and nanoparticles are discussed from the perspective of bench to bedside gene therapy translation. We conclude this review by tying together gene delivery challenges, available vehicle systems and comprehensive analyses of neuropathogenesis to outline future prospects of CNS-targeted gene therapies.
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Zhou D, Gao Y, O'Keeffe Ahern J, A S, Xu Q, Huang X, Greiser U, Wang W. Development of Branched Poly(5-Amino-1-pentanol-co-1,4-butanediol Diacrylate) with High Gene Transfection Potency Across Diverse Cell Types. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2016; 8:34218-34226. [PMID: 27998152 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.6b12078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
One of the most significant challenges in the development of polymer materials for gene delivery is to understand how topological structure influences their transfection properties. Poly(5-amino-1-pentanol-co-1,4-butanediol diacrylate) (C32) has proven to be the top-performing gene delivery vector developed to date. Here, we report the development of branched poly(5-amino-1-pentanol-co-1,4-butanediol diacrylate) (HC32) as a novel gene vector and elucidate how the topological structure affects gene delivery properties. We found that the branched structure has a big impact on gene transfection efficiency resulting in a superior transfection efficiency of HC32 in comparison to C32 with a linear structure. Mechanistic investigations illustrated that the branched structure enhanced DNA binding, leading to the formation of toroidal polyplexes with smaller size and higher cationic charge. Importantly, the branched structure offers HC32 a larger chemical space for terminal functionalization (e.g., guanidinylation) to further enhance the transfection. Moreover, the optimized HC32 is capable of transfecting a diverse range of cell types including cells that are known to be difficult to transfect such as stem cells and astrocytes with high efficiency. Our study provides a new insight into the rational design of poly(β-amino ester) (PAE) based polymers for gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dezhong Zhou
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin , Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Yongsheng Gao
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin , Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | - Sigen A
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin , Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Qian Xu
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin , Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Xiaobei Huang
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin , Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610064, Sichuan, China
| | - Udo Greiser
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin , Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Wenxin Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University , Tianjin 300072, China
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin , Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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Abu-Rub MT, Newland B, Naughton M, Wang W, McMahon S, Pandit A. Non-viral xylosyltransferase-1 siRNA delivery as an effective alternative to chondroitinase in an in vitro model of reactive astrocytes. Neuroscience 2016; 339:267-275. [PMID: 27743984 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Reactive astrocytosis and the subsequent glial scar is ubiquitous to injuries of the central nervous system, especially spinal cord injury (SCI) and primarily serves to protect against further damage, but is also a prominent inhibitor of regeneration. Manipulating the glial scar by targeting chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) has been the focus of much study as a means to improve axon regeneration and subsequently functional recovery. In this study we investigate the ability of small interfering RNA (siRNA) delivered by a non-viral polymer vector to silence the rate-limiting enzyme involved in CSPG synthesis. Gene expression of this enzyme, xylosyltransferase-1, was silenced by 65% in Neu7 astrocytes which conferred a reduced expression of CSPGs. Furthermore, conditioned medium taken from treated Neu7s, or co-culture experiments with dorsal root ganglia (DRG) showed that siRNA treatment resulted in a more permissive environment for DRG neurite outgrowth than treatment with chondroitinase ABC alone. These results indicate that there is a role for targeted siRNA therapy using polymeric vectors to facilitate regeneration of injured axons following central nervous system injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad T Abu-Rub
- Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials (NFB), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Ben Newland
- Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials (NFB), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Michelle Naughton
- Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials (NFB), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Wenxin Wang
- Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials (NFB), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Siobhan McMahon
- Department of Anatomy, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials (NFB), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.
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15
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Gao Y, Newland B, Zhou D, Matyjaszewski K, Wang W. Controlled Polymerization of Multivinyl Monomers: Formation of Cyclized/Knotted Single-Chain Polymer Architectures. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016; 56:450-460. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201608786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Gao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering; Tianjin University; Tianjin 300072 China
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine; University College Dublin; Dublin Ireland
| | - Ben Newland
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung; Dresden Germany
- Brain Repair Group; Cardiff University; Cardiff UK
| | - Dezhong Zhou
- School of Materials Science and Engineering; Tianjin University; Tianjin 300072 China
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine; University College Dublin; Dublin Ireland
| | - Krzysztof Matyjaszewski
- Center for Macromolecular Engineering, Department of Chemistry; Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh PA 15213 USA
| | - Wenxin Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering; Tianjin University; Tianjin 300072 China
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine; University College Dublin; Dublin Ireland
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16
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Gao Y, Newland B, Zhou D, Matyjaszewski K, Wang W. Kontrollierte Polymerisation von Multivinyl-Monomeren: Bildung einer cyclischen/verknoteten Einzelketten-Polymerarchitektur. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201608786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Gao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering; Tianjin University; Tianjin 300072 China
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine; University College Dublin; Dublin Irland
| | - Ben Newland
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung; Dresden Deutschland
- Brain Repair Group; Cardiff University; Cardiff Großbritannien
| | - Dezhong Zhou
- School of Materials Science and Engineering; Tianjin University; Tianjin 300072 China
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine; University College Dublin; Dublin Irland
| | - Krzysztof Matyjaszewski
- Center for Macromolecular Engineering, Department of Chemistry; Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh PA 15213 USA
| | - Wenxin Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering; Tianjin University; Tianjin 300072 China
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine; University College Dublin; Dublin Irland
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17
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Gao Y, Huang JY, O'Keeffe Ahern J, Cutlar L, Zhou D, Lin FH, Wang W. Highly Branched Poly(β-amino esters) for Non-Viral Gene Delivery: High Transfection Efficiency and Low Toxicity Achieved by Increasing Molecular Weight. Biomacromolecules 2016; 17:3640-3647. [PMID: 27641634 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.6b01120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A successful polymeric gene delivery vector is denoted by both transfection efficiency and biocompatibility. However, the existing vectors with combined high efficacy and minimal toxicity still fall short. The most widely used polyethylene imine (PEI), polyamidoamine (PAMAM) and poly(dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) suffer from the correlation: either too toxic or little effective. Here, we demonstrate that with highly branched poly(β-amino esters) (HPAEs), a type of recently developed gene delivery vector, the high gene transfection efficiency and low cytotoxicity can be achieved simultaneously at high molecular weight (MW). The interactions of HPAE/DNA polyplexes with cell membrane account for the favorable correlation between molecular weight and biocompatibility. In addition to the effect of molecular weight, the molecular configuration of linear and branched segments in HPAEs is also pivotal to endow high transfection efficiency and low cytotoxicity. These findings provide renewed perspective for the further development of clinically viable gene delivery vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Gao
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jian-Yuan Huang
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin 4, Ireland.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University , Taipei, Taiwan , 100, R.O.C
| | - Jonathan O'Keeffe Ahern
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Lara Cutlar
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Dezhong Zhou
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Feng-Huei Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University , Taipei, Taiwan , 100, R.O.C
| | - Wenxin Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University , Tianjin, 300072, P.R.C.,Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin , Dublin 4, Ireland
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18
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Sun Z, Zhou D. PLL/PAE/DNA ternary complexes with enhanced endosomal escape ability for efficient and safe gene transfection. NEW J CHEM 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6nj02639g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
High gene transfection efficiency is achieved by a simple yet versatile PAE oligomer incorporation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibing Sun
- Guangzhou Vocational College of Technology & Business
- Guangzhou
- China
| | - Dezhong Zhou
- Charles Institute of Dermatology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
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19
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Gao Y, Zhou D, Zhao T, Wei X, McMahon S, O’Keeffe Ahern J, Wang W, Greiser U, Rodriguez BJ, Wang W. Intramolecular Cyclization Dominating Homopolymerization of Multivinyl Monomers toward Single-Chain Cyclized/Knotted Polymeric Nanoparticles. Macromolecules 2015. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.5b01549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Wei Wang
- School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | | | | | - Wenxin Wang
- School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
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20
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Merighi A. Targeting the glial-derived neurotrophic factor and related molecules for controlling normal and pathologic pain. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 20:193-208. [PMID: 26863504 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2016.1085972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and its family of ligands (GFLs) have several functions in the nervous system. As a survival factor for dopaminergic neurons, GDNF was used in clinical trials for Parkinson's disease. GFLs and their receptors are also potential targets for new pain-controlling drugs. Although molecules with analgesic activities in rodents mostly failed to be effective in translational studies, this potential should not be underestimated. AREAS COVERED The circuitry, molecular, and cellular mechanisms by which GFLs control nociception and their intervention in inflammatory and neuropathic pain are considered first. The problems related to effective GDNF delivery to the brain and the possibility to target the GFL receptor complex rather than its ligands are then discussed, also considering the use of non-peptidyl agonists. EXPERT OPINION In nociceptive pathways, an ideal drug should either: i) target the release of endogenous GFLs from large dense-cored vesicles (LGVs) by acting, for example, onto the phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate [PtdIns(3)P] pool, which is sensitive to Ca(2+) modulation, or ii) target the GFL receptor complex. Besides XIB403, a tiol molecule that enhances GFRα family receptor signaling, existing drugs such as retinoic acid and amitriptyline should be considered for effective targeting of GDNF, at least in neuropathic pain. The approach of pain modeling in experimental animals is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adalberto Merighi
- a University of Turin, Department of Veterinary Sciences , Grugliasco, TO, Italy ;
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21
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22
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Novel pH- and temperature-responsive polymer: Tertiary amine starch ether. Carbohydr Polym 2014; 114:530-536. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.08.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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23
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Newland B, Aied A, Pinoncely AV, Zheng Y, Zhao T, Zhang H, Niemeier R, Dowd E, Pandit A, Wang W. Untying a nanoscale knotted polymer structure to linear chains for efficient gene delivery in vitro and to the brain. NANOSCALE 2014; 6:7526-7533. [PMID: 24886722 DOI: 10.1039/c3nr06737h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop a platform transfection technology, for applications in the brain, which could transfect astrocytes without requiring cell specific functionalization and without the common cause of toxicity through high charge density. Here we show that a simple and scalable preparation technique can be used to produce a "knot" structured cationic polymer, where single growing chains can crosslink together via disulphide intramolecular crosslinks (internal cyclizations). This well-defined knot structure can thus "untie" under reducing conditions, showing a more favorable transfection profile for astrocytes compared to 25 kDa-PEI (48-fold), SuperFect® (39-fold) and Lipofectamine®2000 (18-fold) whilst maintaining neural cell viability at over 80% after four days of culture. The high transfection/lack of toxicity of this knot structured polymer in vitro, combined with its ability to mediate luciferase transgene expression in the adult rat brain, demonstrates its use as a platform transfection technology which should be investigated further for neurodegenerative disease therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Newland
- Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials (NFB), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.
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24
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Zhang M, Xiong Q, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Shen W, Liu L, Wang Q, Zhang Q. A well-defined coil–comb polycationic brush with “star polymers” as side chains for gene delivery. Polym Chem 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c4py00311j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The well-defined polycationic brush with super-high grafting density of PDMAEMA showed higher transfection capability than the single star polymer and PEI25K.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- Tianjin 300192, P. R. China
| | - Qingqing Xiong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- Tianjin 300192, P. R. China
| | - Yinsong Wang
- School of Pharmacy
- Tianjin Medical University
- Tianjin 300070, P. R. China
| | - Zhibao Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- Tianjin 300192, P. R. China
| | - Wei Shen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- Tianjin 300192, P. R. China
| | - Lingrong Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- Tianjin 300192, P. R. China
| | - Quanyao Wang
- School of Pharmacy
- Tianjin Medical University
- Tianjin 300070, P. R. China
| | - Qiqing Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
- Tianjin 300192, P. R. China
- Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technology
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25
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Isolation and characterisation of a recombinant antibody fragment that binds NCAM1-expressing intervertebral disc cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e83678. [PMID: 24349544 PMCID: PMC3862799 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0083678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Degeneration of the intervertebral discs (IVD) is a leading cause of neck and low back pain. Degeneration begins in the central nucleus pulposus region, leading to loss of IVD osmotic properties. Regeneration approaches include administration of matrix-mimicking scaffolds, cells and/or therapeutic factors. Cell-targeting strategies are likely to improve delivery due to the low cell numbers in the IVD. Single-chain antibody fragments (scFvs) that bind IVD cells were isolated for potential delivery of therapeutics to degenerated IVD. The most cell-distal domain of neural cell adhesion molecule 1 (NCAM1) was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Phage display technology was used to isolate a human scFv against the recombinant domain by panning a scFv library on the immobilised protein. The isolated scFv bound cultured rat astrocytes, as well as bovine nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus cells in immunocytochemical studies. The scFv also labelled cells in bovine spinal cord and six-month and two-year old bovine IVD sections by immunohistochemistry. Antibody fragments can provide cell-binding moieties at improved cost, time, yield and functionalisation potential over whole antibodies. The described scFv has potential application in delivery of therapeutics to NCAM1-expressing cells in degenerated IVD.
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Hoban DB, Newland B, Moloney TC, Howard L, Pandit A, Dowd E. The reduction in immunogenicity of neurotrophin overexpressing stem cells after intra-striatal transplantation by encapsulation in an in situ gelling collagen hydrogel. Biomaterials 2013; 34:9420-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2013.08.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2013] [Accepted: 08/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Abstract
Cyclodextrins (CDs) are naturally occurring cyclic oligosaccharides. They consist of (α-1,4)-linked glucose units, and possess a basket-shaped topology with an "inner-outer" amphiphilic character. Over the years, substantial efforts have been undertaken to investigate the possible use of CDs in drug delivery and controlled drug release, yet the potential of CDs in gene delivery has received comparatively less discussion in the literature. In this article, we will first discuss the properties of CDs for gene delivery, followed by a synopsis of the use of CDs in development and modification of non-viral gene carriers. Finally, areas that are noteworthy in CD-based gene delivery will be highlighted for future research. Due to the application prospects of CDs, it is anticipated that CDs will continue to emerge as an important tool for vector development, and will play significant roles in facilitating non-viral gene delivery in the forthcoming decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing-Fu Lai
- Division in Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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28
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Yao L, Daly W, Newland B, Yao S, Wang W, Chen BKK, Madigan N, Windebank A, Pandit A. Improved axonal regeneration of transected spinal cord mediated by multichannel collagen conduits functionalized with neurotrophin-3 gene. Gene Ther 2013; 20:1149-57. [DOI: 10.1038/gt.2013.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2013] [Revised: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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29
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Newland B, Dowd E, Pandit A. Biomaterial approaches to gene therapies for neurodegenerative disorders of the CNS. Biomater Sci 2013; 1:556-576. [DOI: 10.1039/c3bm60030k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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