1
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Jones AA, Snow CD. Porous protein crystals: synthesis and applications. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:5790-5803. [PMID: 38756076 DOI: 10.1039/d4cc00183d] [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: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Large-pore protein crystals (LPCs) are an emerging class of biomaterials. The inherent diversity of proteins translates to a diversity of crystal lattice structures, many of which display large pores and solvent channels. These pores can, in turn, be functionalized via directed evolution and rational redesign based on the known crystal structures. LPCs possess extremely high solvent content, as well as extremely high surface area to volume ratios. Because of these characteristics, LPCs continue to be explored in diverse applications including catalysis, targeted therapeutic delivery, templating of nanostructures, structural biology. This Feature review article will describe several of the existing platforms in detail, with particular focus on LPC synthesis approaches and reported applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec Arthur Jones
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1301, USA.
| | - Christopher D Snow
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1301, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1301, USA
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2
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Zhao Q, Ma L, Chen S, Huang L, She G, Sun Y, Shi W, Mu L. Tracking mitochondrial Cu(I) fluctuations through a ratiometric fluorescent probe in AD model cells: Towards understanding how AβOs induce mitochondrial Cu(I) dyshomeostasis. Talanta 2024; 271:125716. [PMID: 38301373 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.125716] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial copper signaling pathway plays a role in Alzheimer's disease (AD), especially in relevant Amyloid-β oligomers (AβOs) neurotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction. Clarifying the relationship between mitochondrial copper homeostasis and both of mitochondrial dysfunction and AβOs neurotoxicity is important for understanding AD pathogenesis. Herein, we designed and synthesized a ratiometric fluorescent probe CHC-NS4 for Cu(I). CHC-NS4 possesses excellent ratiometric response, high selectivity to Cu(I) and specific ability to target mitochondria. Under mitochondrial dysfunction induced by oligomycin, mitochondrial Cu(I) levels gradually increased, which may be related to inhibition of ATP7A-mediated Cu(I) exportation and/or high expression of COX. On this basis, CHC-NS4 was further utilized to visualize the fluctuations of mitochondrial Cu(I) levels during progression of AD model cells induced by AβOs. It was found that mitochondrial Cu(I) levels were gradually elevated during the AD progression, which depended on not only AβOs concentration but also incubation time. Moreover, endocytosis maybe served as a prime pathway mode for mitochondrial Cu(I) dyshomeostasis induced by AβOs during AD progression. These results have provided a novel inspiration into mitochondrial copper biology in AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaowen Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Liyi Ma
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Siwei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Lushan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guangwei She
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yongan Sun
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Wensheng Shi
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Lixuan Mu
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
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3
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Ji Y, Duan Y, Li Y, Lu Q, Liu D, Yang Y, Chang R, Tian J, Yao W, Yin J, Gao X. A long-acting FGF21 attenuates metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis-related fibrosis by modulating NR4A1-mediated Ly6C phenotypic switch in macrophages. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38679486 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Because of the absence of effective therapies for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), there is a rising interest in fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) analogues due to their potential anti-fibrotic activities in MASH treatment. PsTag-FGF21, a long-acting FGF21 analogue, has demonstrated promising therapeutic effects in several MASH mouse models. However, its efficacy and mechanism against MASH-related fibrosis remain less well defined, compared with the specific mechanisms through which FGF21 improves glucose and lipid metabolism. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effectiveness of PsTag-FGF21 was evaluated in two MASH-fibrosis models. Co-culture systems involving macrophages and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were employed for further assessment. Hepatic macrophages were selectively depleted by administering liposome-encapsulated clodronate via tail vein injections. RNA sequencing and cytokine profiling were conducted to identify key factors involved in macrophage-HSC crosstalk. KEY RESULTS We first demonstrated the significant attenuation of hepatic fibrosis by PsTag-FGF21 in two MASH-fibrosis models. Furthermore, we highlighted the crucial role of macrophage phenotypic switch in PsTag-FGF21-induced HSC deactivation. FGF21 was demonstrated to regulate macrophages in a PsTag-FGF21-like manner. NR4A1, a nuclear factor which is notably down-regulated in human livers with MASH, was identified as a mediator responsible for PsTag-FGF21-induced phenotypic switch. Transcriptional control over insulin-like growth factor 1, a crucial factor in macrophage-HSC crosstalk, was exerted by the intrinsically disordered region domain of NR4A1. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our results have elucidated the previously unclear mechanisms through which PsTag-FGF21 treats MASH-related fibrosis and identified NR4A1 as a potential therapeutic target for fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiliang Duan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qingzhou Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Tian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenbing Yao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Draggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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4
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Narum S, Deal B, Ogasawara H, Mancuso JN, Zhang J, Salaita K. An Endosomal Escape Trojan Horse Platform to Improve Cytosolic Delivery of Nucleic Acids. ACS NANO 2024; 18:6186-6201. [PMID: 38346399 PMCID: PMC10906071 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c09027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Endocytosis is a major bottleneck toward cytosolic delivery of nucleic acids, as the vast majority of nucleic acid drugs remain trapped within endosomes. Current trends to overcome endosomal entrapment and subsequent degradation provide varied success; however, active delivery agents such as cell-penetrating peptides have emerged as a prominent strategy to improve cytosolic delivery. Yet, these membrane-active agents have poor selectivity for endosomal membranes, leading to toxicity. A hallmark of endosomes is their acidic environment, which aids in degradation of foreign materials. Here, we develop a pH-triggered spherical nucleic acid that provides smart antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) release upon endosomal acidification and selective membrane disruption, termed DNA EndosomaL Escape Vehicle Response (DELVR). We anchor i-Motif DNA to a nanoparticle (AuNP), where the complement strand contains both an ASO sequence and a functionalized endosomal escape peptide (EEP). By orienting the EEP toward the AuNP core, the EEP is inactive until it is released through acidification-induced i-Motif folding. In this study, we characterize a small library of i-Motif duplexes to develop a structure-switching nucleic acid sequence triggered by endosomal acidification. We evaluate antisense efficacy using HIF1a, a hypoxic indicator upregulated in many cancers, and demonstrate dose-dependent activity through RT-qPCR. We show that DELVR significantly improves ASO efficacy in vitro. Finally, we use fluorescence lifetime imaging and activity measurement to show that DELVR benefits synergistically from nuclease- and pH-driven release strategies with increased ASO endosomal escape efficiency. Overall, this study develops a modular platform that improves the cytosolic delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics and offers key insights for overcoming intracellular barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Narum
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute
of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Brendan Deal
- Department
of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Hiroaki Ogasawara
- Department
of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | | | - Jiahui Zhang
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute
of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Khalid Salaita
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute
of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
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5
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Chen K, Stahl EC, Kang MH, Xu B, Allen R, Trinidad M, Doudna JA. Engineering self-deliverable ribonucleoproteins for genome editing in the brain. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1727. [PMID: 38409124 PMCID: PMC10897210 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45998-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The delivery of CRISPR ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) for genome editing in vitro and in vivo has important advantages over other delivery methods, including reduced off-target and immunogenic effects. However, effective delivery of RNPs remains challenging in certain cell types due to low efficiency and cell toxicity. To address these issues, we engineer self-deliverable RNPs that can promote efficient cellular uptake and carry out robust genome editing without the need for helper materials or biomolecules. Screening of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) fused to CRISPR-Cas9 protein identifies potent constructs capable of efficient genome editing of neural progenitor cells. Further engineering of these fusion proteins establishes a C-terminal Cas9 fusion with three copies of A22p, a peptide derived from human semaphorin-3a, that exhibits substantially improved editing efficacy compared to other constructs. We find that self-deliverable Cas9 RNPs generate robust genome edits in clinically relevant genes when injected directly into the mouse striatum. Overall, self-deliverable Cas9 proteins provide a facile and effective platform for genome editing in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Stahl
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Min Hyung Kang
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Bryant Xu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Ryan Allen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Marena Trinidad
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer A Doudna
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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6
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Chan A, Tsourkas A. Intracellular Protein Delivery: Approaches, Challenges, and Clinical Applications. BME FRONTIERS 2024; 5:0035. [PMID: 38282957 PMCID: PMC10809898 DOI: 10.34133/bmef.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein biologics are powerful therapeutic agents with diverse inhibitory and enzymatic functions. However, their clinical use has been limited to extracellular applications due to their inability to cross plasma membranes. Overcoming this physiological barrier would unlock the potential of protein drugs for the treatment of many intractable diseases. In this review, we highlight progress made toward achieving cytosolic delivery of recombinant proteins. We start by first considering intracellular protein delivery as a drug modality compared to existing Food and Drug Administration-approved drug modalities. Then, we summarize strategies that have been reported to achieve protein internalization. These techniques can be broadly classified into 3 categories: physical methods, direct protein engineering, and nanocarrier-mediated delivery. Finally, we highlight existing challenges for cytosolic protein delivery and offer an outlook for future advances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Tsourkas
- Department of Bioengineering,
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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7
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Hong H, Lee UJ, Lee SH, Kim H, Lim GM, Lee SH, Son HF, Kim BG, Kim KJ. Highly efficient site-specific protein modification using tyrosinase from Streptomyces avermitilis: Structural insight. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 255:128313. [PMID: 37995783 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128313] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Tyrosinase-mediated protein conjugation has recently drawn attention as a site-specific protein modification tool under mild conditions. However, the tyrosinases reported to date act only on extremely exposed tyrosine residues, which limits where the target tyrosine can be located. Herein, we report a tyrosinase from Streptomyces avermitilis (SaTYR), that exhibits a much higher activity against tyrosine residues on the protein surface than other tyrosinases. We determined the crystal structure of SaTYR and revealed that the enzyme has a relatively flat and shallow substrate-binding pocket to accommodate a protein substrate. We demonstrated SaTYR-mediated fluorescence dye tagging and PEGylation of a surface tyrosine residue that was unreacted by other tyrosinases with an approximately 95.2 % conjugation yield in 1 h. We also present a structural rationale that considers the steric hindrance from adjacent residues and surrounding structures along with the extent of solvent exposure of residues, as necessary when determining the optimal positions for introducing target tyrosine residues in SaTYR-mediated protein modification. The study demonstrated that the novel tyrosinase, SaTYR, extends the scope of tyrosinase-mediated protein modification, and we propose that site-specific tyrosine conjugation using SaTYR is a promising strategy for protein bioconjugation in various applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwaseok Hong
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, KNU Institute of Microbiology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Uk-Jae Lee
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Bio-MAX/N-Bio, Institute of BioEngineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Seul Hoo Lee
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, KNU Institute of Microbiology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Kim
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Bio-MAX/N-Bio, Institute of BioEngineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu-Min Lim
- Interdisciplinary Program for Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyuk Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program for Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeoncheol Francis Son
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Gee Kim
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Bio-MAX/N-Bio, Institute of BioEngineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Program for Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyung-Jin Kim
- School of Life Sciences, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, KNU Institute of Microbiology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea.
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Chen K, Stahl EC, Kang MH, Xu B, Allen R, Trinidad M, Doudna JA. Engineering self-deliverable ribonucleoproteins for genome editing in the brain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.15.567251. [PMID: 38014180 PMCID: PMC10680703 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.15.567251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The delivery of CRISPR ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) for genome editing in vitro and in vivo has important advantages over other delivery methods, including reduced off-target and immunogenic effects 1 . However, effective delivery of RNPs remains challenging in certain cell types due to low efficiency and cell toxicity. To address these issues, we engineered self-deliverable RNPs that can promote efficient cellular uptake and carry out robust genome editing without the need for helper materials or biomolecules. Screening of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) fused to CRISPR-Cas9 protein identified potent constructs capable of efficient genome editing of neural progenitor cells. Further engineering of these fusion proteins identified a C-terminal Cas9 fusion with three copies of A22p, a peptide derived from human semaphorin-3a, that exhibited substantially improved editing efficacy compared to other constructs. We found that self-deliverable Cas9 RNPs generated robust genome edits in clinically relevant genes when injected directly into the mouse striatum. Overall, self-deliverable Cas9 proteins provide a facile and effective platform for genome editing in vitro and in vivo .
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9
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Zhu H, Luo H, Chang R, Yang Y, Liu D, Ji Y, Qin H, Rong H, Yin J. Protein-based delivery systems for RNA delivery. J Control Release 2023; 363:253-274. [PMID: 37741460 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
RNA-based therapeutics have emerged as promising approaches to modulate gene expression and generate therapeutic proteins or antigens capable of inducing immune responses to treat a variety of diseases, such as infectious diseases, cancers, immunologic disorders, and genetic disorders. However, the efficient delivery of RNA molecules into cells poses significant challenges due to their large molecular weight, negative charge, and susceptibility to degradation by RNase enzymes. To overcome these obstacles, viral and non-viral vectors have been developed, including lipid nanoparticles, viral vectors, proteins, dendritic macromolecules, among others. Among these carriers, protein-based delivery systems have garnered considerable attention due to their potential to address specific issues associated with nanoparticle-based systems, such as liver accumulation and immunogenicity. This review provides an overview of currently marketed RNA drugs, underscores the significance of RNA delivery vector development, delineates the essential characteristics of an ideal RNA delivery vector, and introduces existing protein carriers for RNA delivery. By offering valuable insights, this review aims to serve as a reference for the future development of protein-based delivery vectors for RNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haichao Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hong Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hai Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital Guizhou Hospital, No. 206, Sixian Street, Baiyun District, Guiyang City 550014, Guizhou Province, China.
| | - Haibo Rong
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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10
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Öktem M, Mastrobattista E, de Jong OG. Amphipathic Cell-Penetrating Peptide-Aided Delivery of Cas9 RNP for In Vitro Gene Editing and Correction. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2500. [PMID: 37896260 PMCID: PMC10609989 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system in treating numerous genetic disorders is immense. To fully realize this potential, it is crucial to achieve safe and efficient delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 components into the nuclei of target cells. In this study, we investigated the applicability of the amphipathic cell-penetrating peptide LAH5, previously employed for DNA delivery, in the intracellular delivery of spCas9:sgRNA ribonucleoprotein (RNP) and the RNP/single-stranded homology-directed repair (HDR) template. Our findings reveal that the LAH5 peptide effectively formed nanocomplexes with both RNP and RNP/HDR cargo, and these nanocomplexes demonstrated successful cellular uptake and cargo delivery. The loading of all RNP/HDR components into LAH5 nanocomplexes was confirmed using an electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Functional screening of various ratios of peptide/RNP nanocomplexes was performed on fluorescent reporter cell lines to assess gene editing and HDR-mediated gene correction. Moreover, targeted gene editing of the CCR5 gene was successfully demonstrated across diverse cell lines. This LAH5-based delivery strategy represents a significant advancement toward the development of therapeutic delivery systems for CRISPR-Cas-based genetic engineering in in vitro and ex vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Olivier G. de Jong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (M.Ö.); (E.M.)
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11
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Feng X, Chang R, Zhu H, Yang Y, Ji Y, Liu D, Qin H, Yin J, Rong H. Engineering Proteins for Cell Entry. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:4868-4882. [PMID: 37708383 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Proteins are essential for life, as they participate in all vital processes in the body. In the past decade, delivery of active proteins to specific cells and organs has attracted increasing interest. However, most proteins cannot enter the cytoplasm due to the cell membrane acting as a natural barrier. To overcome this challenge, various proteins have been engineered to acquire cell-penetrating capacity by mimicking or modifying natural shuttling proteins. In this review, we provide an overview of the different types of engineered cell-penetrating proteins such as cell-penetrating peptides, supercharged proteins, receptor-binding proteins, and bacterial toxins. We also discuss some strategies for improving endosomal escape such as pore formation, the proton sponge effect, and hijacking intracellular trafficking pathways. Finally, we introduce some novel methods and technologies for designing and detecting engineered cell-penetrating proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haichao Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hai Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital Guizhou Hospital, No. 206, Sixian Street, Baiyun District, Guiyang, Guizhou 550014, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haibo Rong
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Zhao Y, Jiang H, Yu J, Wang L, Du J. Engineered Histidine-Rich Peptides Enhance Endosomal Escape for Antibody-Targeted Intracellular Delivery of Functional Proteins. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202304692. [PMID: 37283024 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202304692] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Currently, the clinical application of protein/peptide therapeutics is mainly limited to the modulation of diseases in extracellular spaces. Intracellular targets are hardly accessed, owing largely to the endosomal entrapment of internalized proteins/peptides. Here, we report a strategy to design and construct peptides that enable endosome-to-cytosol delivery based on an extension of the "histidine switch" principle. By substituting the Arg/Lys residues in cationic cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) with histidine, we obtained peptides with pH-dependent membrane-perturbation activity. These peptides do not randomly penetrate cells like CPPs, but imitate the endosomal escape of CPPs following cellular uptake. Working with one such 16-residue peptide (hsLMWP) with high endosomal escape capacity, we engineered modular fusion proteins and achieved antibody-targeted delivery of diverse protein cargoes-including the pro-apoptotic protein BID (BH3-interacting domain death agonist) and Cre recombinase-into the cytosol of multiple cancer cell types. After extensive in vitro testing, an in vivo analysis with xenograft mice ultimately demonstrated that a trastuzumab-hsLMWP-BID fusion conferred strong anti-tumor efficacy without apparent side effects. Notably, our fusion protein features a modular design, allowing flexible applications for any antibody/cargo combination of choice. Therefore, the potential applications extend throughout life science and biomedicine, including gene editing, cancer treatment, and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Peking University-Tsinghua University-National Institute Biological Sciences (PTN) Joint Graduate Program, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Haolin Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies (AAIS), Peking University-Tsinghua University-National Institute Biological Sciences (PTN) Joint Graduate Program, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jiazhen Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Luyao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Juanjuan Du
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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13
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Qian L, Lin X, Gao X, Khan RU, Liao JY, Du S, Ge J, Zeng S, Yao SQ. The Dawn of a New Era: Targeting the "Undruggables" with Antibody-Based Therapeutics. Chem Rev 2023. [PMID: 37186942 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The high selectivity and affinity of antibodies toward their antigens have made them a highly valuable tool in disease therapy, diagnosis, and basic research. A plethora of chemical and genetic approaches have been devised to make antibodies accessible to more "undruggable" targets and equipped with new functions of illustrating or regulating biological processes more precisely. In this Review, in addition to introducing how naked antibodies and various antibody conjugates (such as antibody-drug conjugates, antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates, antibody-enzyme conjugates, etc.) work in therapeutic applications, special attention has been paid to how chemistry tools have helped to optimize the therapeutic outcome (i.e., with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects) or facilitate the multifunctionalization of antibodies, with a focus on emerging fields such as targeted protein degradation, real-time live-cell imaging, catalytic labeling or decaging with spatiotemporal control as well as the engagement of antibodies inside cells. With advances in modern chemistry and biotechnology, well-designed antibodies and their derivatives via size miniaturization or multifunctionalization together with efficient delivery systems have emerged, which have gradually improved our understanding of important biological processes and paved the way to pursue novel targets for potential treatments of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linghui Qian
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xuefen Lin
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xue Gao
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Rizwan Ullah Khan
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jia-Yu Liao
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shubo Du
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Jingyan Ge
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Su Zeng
- Institute of Drug Metabolism and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cancer Center, & Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shao Q Yao
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 4 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117544
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14
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Haley RM, Chan A, Billingsley MM, Gong N, Padilla MS, Kim EH, Wang HH, Yin D, Wangensteen KJ, Tsourkas A, Mitchell MJ. Lipid Nanoparticle Delivery of Small Proteins for Potent In Vivo RAS Inhibition. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:21877-21892. [PMID: 37115558 PMCID: PMC10727849 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c01501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Mutated RAS proteins are potent oncogenic drivers and have long been considered "undruggable". While RAS-targeting therapies have recently shown promise, there remains a clinical need for RAS inhibitors with more diverse targets. Small proteins represent a potential new therapeutic option, including K27, a designed ankyrin repeat protein (DARPin) engineered to inhibit RAS. However, K27 functions intracellularly and is incapable of entering the cytosol on its own, currently limiting its utility. To overcome this barrier, we have engineered a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform for potent delivery of functional K27-D30─a charge-modified version of the protein─intracellularly in vitro and in vivo. This system efficiently encapsulates charge-modified proteins, facilitates delivery in up to 90% of cells in vitro, and maintains potency after at least 45 days of storage. In vivo, these LNPs deliver K27-D30 to the cytosol of cancerous cells in the liver, inhibiting RAS-driven growth and ultimately reducing tumor load in an HTVI-induced mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma. This work shows that K27 holds promise as a new cancer therapeutic when delivered using this LNP platform. Furthermore, this technology has the potential to broaden the use of LNPs to include new cargo types─beyond RNA─for diverse therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Haley
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Alexander Chan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | | | - Ningqiang Gong
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Marshall S. Padilla
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Emily H. Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Hejia Henry Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Dingzi Yin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902
| | - Kirk J. Wangensteen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902
| | - Andrew Tsourkas
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Michael J. Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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15
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Ji Y, Liu D, Zhu H, Bao L, Chang R, Gao X, Yin J. Unstructured Polypeptides as a Versatile Drug Delivery Technology. Acta Biomater 2023; 164:74-93. [PMID: 37075961 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Although polyethylene glycol (PEG), or "PEGylation" has become a widely applied approach for improving the efficiency of drug delivery, the immunogenicity and non-biodegradability of this synthetic polymer have prompted an evident need for alternatives. To overcome these caveats and to mimic PEG -or other natural or synthetic polymers- for the purpose of drug half-life extension, unstructured polypeptides are designed. Due to their tunable length, biodegradability, low immunogenicity and easy production, unstructured polypeptides have the potential to replace PEG as the preferred technology for therapeutic protein/peptide delivery. This review provides an overview of the evolution of unstructured polypeptides, starting from natural polypeptides to engineered polypeptides and discusses their characteristics. Then, it is described that unstructured polypeptides have been successfully applied to numerous drugs, including peptides, proteins, antibody fragments, and nanocarriers, for half-life extension. Innovative applications of unstructured peptides as releasable masks, multimolecular adaptors and intracellular delivery carriers are also discussed. Finally, challenges and future perspectives of this promising field are briefly presented. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : Polypeptide fusion technology simulating PEGylation has become an important topic for the development of long-circulating peptide or protein drugs without reduced activity, complex processes, and kidney injury caused by PEG modification. Here we provide a detailed and in-depth review of the recent advances in unstructured polypeptides. In addition to the application of enhanced pharmacokinetic performance, emphasis is placed on polypeptides as scaffolders for the delivery of multiple drugs, and on the preparation of reasonably designed polypeptides to manipulate the performance of proteins and peptides. This review will provide insight into future application of polypeptides in peptide or protein drug development and the design of novel functional polypeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haichao Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lichen Bao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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16
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Zeng Z, Li C, Liu Y, Chen H, Feng X. Delivery of Transcriptional Factors for Activating Antioxidant Defenses against Inflammatory Bowel Disease. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:1306-1312. [PMID: 36881502 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress caused by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an important role in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is well-known that the Nrf2-ARE (antioxidative response element) pathway is important in the regulation mechanism of antioxidant defense. Therefore, Nrf2 activation may be an effective therapeutic strategy for IBD. Here, we reported the development of a nucleus-targeted Nrf2 delivery nanoplatform, termed N/LC, that could accumulate in inflamed colonic epithelium, reduce inflammatory responses, and restore epithelium barriers in a murine model of acute colitis. N/LC nanocomposites could quickly escape from lysosomes, so Nrf2 largely accumulated in the nucleus of colonic cells, activated the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway, further elevated the expression levels of downstream detoxification and antioxidant genes, and protected cells from oxidative damage. These results suggested that N/LC might be a potential nanoplatform for IBD therapy. The study provided the basis for the biomedical applications of Nrf2-based therapeutics in various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiying Zeng
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, Innovative Drug Research Centre, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Changying Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, Innovative Drug Research Centre, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Ye Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, Innovative Drug Research Centre, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, Innovative Drug Research Centre, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Xuli Feng
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, Innovative Drug Research Centre, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
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17
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van Vliet VJE, Huynh N, Palà J, Patel A, Singer A, Slater C, Chung J, van Huizen M, Teyra J, Miersch S, Luu GK, Ye W, Sharma N, Ganaie SS, Russell R, Chen C, Maynard M, Amarasinghe GK, Mark BL, Kikkert M, Sidhu SS. Ubiquitin variants potently inhibit SARS-CoV-2 PLpro and viral replication via a novel site distal to the protease active site. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1011065. [PMID: 36548304 PMCID: PMC9822107 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has made it clear that combating coronavirus outbreaks benefits from a combination of vaccines and therapeutics. A promising drug target common to all coronaviruses-including SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2-is the papain-like protease (PLpro). PLpro cleaves part of the viral replicase polyproteins into non-structural protein subunits, which are essential to the viral replication cycle. Additionally, PLpro can cleave both ubiquitin and the ubiquitin-like protein ISG15 from host cell substrates as a mechanism to evade innate immune responses during infection. These roles make PLpro an attractive antiviral drug target. Here we demonstrate that ubiquitin variants (UbVs) can be selected from a phage-displayed library and used to specifically and potently block SARS-CoV-2 PLpro activity. A crystal structure of SARS-CoV-2 PLpro in complex with a representative UbV reveals a dimeric UbV bound to PLpro at a site distal to the catalytic site. Yet, the UbV inhibits the essential cleavage activities of the protease in vitro and in cells, and it reduces viral replication in cell culture by almost five orders of magnitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera J. E. van Vliet
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Center of Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, South Holland, The Netherlands
- The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Nhan Huynh
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Judith Palà
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ankoor Patel
- Department of Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Alex Singer
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cole Slater
- Department of Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Jacky Chung
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mariska van Huizen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Center of Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, South Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Joan Teyra
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shane Miersch
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gia-Khanh Luu
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wei Ye
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nitin Sharma
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Safder S. Ganaie
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Raquel Russell
- Department of Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Chao Chen
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mindy Maynard
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gaya K. Amarasinghe
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Brian L. Mark
- Department of Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Marjolein Kikkert
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Center of Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, South Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Sachdev S. Sidhu
- The Anvil Institute, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Dibenzocyclooctyne linked lysine-cyclodextrin for efficient intranucleus delivery of proteins. J Control Release 2022; 352:759-765. [PMID: 36351518 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Intranuclear protein delivery shows great prospects in broadening the application scope of protein therapy and revolutionizing medicine, however, effective delivery of native proteins into the nucleus of cells remains a great challenge. Herein, we report the supramolecular nanoparticles based on the self-assembly of dibenzocyclooctyne (DIBO) linked lysine-cyclodextrin (DLC) for efficient intranucleus delivery of proteins. Coordination-driven self-assembly of DLCs in aqueous solution enables efficient encapsulation of proteins just by simple mixing, so as to maintain their biological activity in a reliable way. DLC nanoparticles ensure effective intranuclear protein delivery for therapeutic applications and gene regulation. This rationally designed DIBO containing amino acid-cyclodextrin derivative allows the development of a convenient and universal nanoplatform for intranuclear delivery of native proteins.
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19
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Reactive oxygen species-responsive branched poly (β-amino ester) with robust efficiency for cytosolic protein delivery. Acta Biomater 2022; 152:355-366. [PMID: 36084925 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.08.070] [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] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Protein therapy targeting the intracellular machinery holds great potentials for disease treatment, and therefore, effective cytosolic protein delivery technologies are highly demanded. Herein, we developed reactive oxygen species (ROS)-degradable, branched poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE) with built-in phenylboronic acid (PBA) in the backbone and terminal-pendent arginine for the efficient cytosolic protein delivery. The PBAE could form stable and cell-ingestible nanocomplexes (NCs) with proteins via electrostatic interaction, nitrogen-boronate (N-B) coordination, and hydrogen bonding, while it can be degraded into small segments by the over-produced H2O2 in tumor cells to enable cytoplasmic protein release. As thus, PBAE exhibited high efficiency in delivering varieties of proteins with distinct molecular weights (12.4-430 kDa) and isoelectric points (4.7-10.5) into tumor cells, including enzymes, toxins, and antibodies. Moreover, PBAE mediated efficient delivery of saporin into tumor cells in vivo, provoking pronounced anti-tumor outcomes. This study provides a robust and versatile platform for cytosolic protein delivery, and the elaborately tailored PBAE may find promising applications for protein-based biological research and disease management. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cytosolic delivery of native proteins holds great therapeutic potentials, which however, is limited by the lack of robust delivery carriers that can simultaneously feature strong protein encapsulation yet effective intracellular protein release. Herein, ROS-degradable, branched poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE) with backbone-embedded phenylboronic acid (PBA) and terminal-pendent arginine was developed to synchronize these two processes. PBA and arginine moieties allowed PBAE to encapsulate proteins via N-B coordination, electrostatic interaction, hydrogen bonding, and salt bridging, while PBA could be oxidized by over-produced H2O2 inside cancer cells to trigger PBAE degradation and intracellular protein release. As thus, the top-performing PBAE mediated efficient cytosolic delivery of various proteins including enzymes, toxins, and antibodies. This study provides a powerful platform for cytosolic protein delivery, and may find promising utilities toward intracellular protein therapy against cancer and other diseases such as inflammation.
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20
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Zhao Z, Liu X, Hou M, Zhou R, Wu F, Yan J, Li W, Zheng Y, Zhong Q, Chen Y, Yin L. Endocytosis-Independent and Cancer-Selective Cytosolic Protein Delivery via Reversible Tagging with LAT1 substrate. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2110560. [PMID: 35789055 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202110560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Protein drugs targeting intracellular machineries have shown profound therapeutic potentials, but their clinical utilities are greatly hampered by the lack of efficient cytosolic delivery techniques. Existing strategies mainly rely on nanocarriers or conjugated cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), which often have drawbacks such as materials complexity/toxicity, lack of cell specificity, and endolysosomal entrapment. Herein, a unique carrier-free approach is reported for mediating cancer-selective and endocytosis-free cytosolic protein delivery. Proteins are sequentially modified with 4-nitrophenyl 4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl) benzyl carbonate as the H2 O2 -responsive domain and 3,4-dihydroxy-l-phenylalanine as the substrate of l-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1). Thus, the pro-protein can be directly transported into tumor cells by overexpressed LAT1 on cell membranes, bypassing endocytosis and endolysosomal entrapment. In the cytosol, overproduced H2 O2 restores the protein structure and activity. Using this technique, versatile proteins are delivered into tumor cells with robust efficiency, including toxins, enzymes, CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein, and antibodies. Furthermore, intravenously injected pro-protein of saporin shows potent anticancer efficacy in 4T1-tumor-bearing mice, without provoking systemic toxicity. Such a facile and versatile pro-protein platform may benefit the development of protein pharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyin Zhao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xun Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Thoracic Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
| | - Mengying Hou
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Renxiang Zhou
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jing Yan
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yujia Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Thoracic Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
| | - Qinmeng Zhong
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yongbing Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Thoracic Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
| | - Lichen Yin
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
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21
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Dankert F, Siewert JE, Gupta P, Weigend F, Hering-Junghans C. Metal-Free N-H Bond Activation by Phospha-Wittig Reagents. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202207064. [PMID: 35594171 PMCID: PMC9400956 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202207064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
N‐containing molecules are mostly derived from ammonia (NH3). Ammonia activation has been demonstrated for single transition metal centers as well as for low‐valent main group species. Phosphinidenes, mono‐valent phosphorus species, can be stabilized by phosphines, giving so‐called phosphanylidenephosphoranes of the type RP(PR′3). We demonstrate the facile, metal‐free NH3 activation using ArP(PMe3), affording for the first time isolable secondary aminophosphines ArP(H)NH2. DFT studies reveal that two molecules of NH3 act in concert to facilitate an NH3 for PMe3 exchange. Furthermore, H2NR and HNR2 activation is demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Dankert
- Leibniz-Institut für Katalyse e.V. (LIKAT), Albert-Einstein-Straße 3a, 18059, Rostock, Germany
| | - Jan-Erik Siewert
- Leibniz-Institut für Katalyse e.V. (LIKAT), Albert-Einstein-Straße 3a, 18059, Rostock, Germany
| | - Priyanka Gupta
- Leibniz-Institut für Katalyse e.V. (LIKAT), Albert-Einstein-Straße 3a, 18059, Rostock, Germany
| | - Florian Weigend
- Fachbereich Chemie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Hans-Meerwein Straße 4, 35032, Marburg, Germany
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22
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Yan J, Wang Y, Song X, Yan X, Zhao Y, Yu L, He Z. The Advancement of Gas-Generating Nanoplatforms in Biomedical Fields: Current Frontiers and Future Perspectives. SMALL METHODS 2022; 6:e2200139. [PMID: 35587774 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202200139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Diverse gases (NO, CO, H2 S, H2 , etc.) have been widely applied in the medical intervention of various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, ischemia-reperfusion injury, bacterial infection, etc., attributing to their inherent biomedical activities. Although many gases have many biomedical activities, their clinical use is still limited due to the rapid and free diffusion behavior of these gases molecules, which may cause potential side effects and/or ineffective treatment. Gas-generating nanoplatforms (GGNs) are effective strategies to address the aforementioned challenges of gas therapy by preventing gas production or release at nonspecific sites, enhancing GGNs accumulation at targeted sites, and controlling gas release in response to exogenous (UV, NIR, US, etc.) or endogenous (H2 O2 , GSH, pH, etc.) stimuli at the lesion site, further maintaining gas concentration within the effective range and achieving the purpose of disease treatment. This review comprehensively summarizes the advancements of "state-of-the-art" GGNs in the recent three years, with emphasis on the composition, structure, preparation process, and gas release mechanism of the nanocarriers. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects and limitations of GGNs in preclinical studies using cell/animal models are discussed. Overall, this review enlightens the further development of this field and promotes the clinical transformation of gas therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Yan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
| | - Xinyu Song
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
| | - Xuefeng Yan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zhao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, P. R. China
| | - Liangmin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
| | - Zhiyu He
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, P. R. China
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23
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Chen N, He Y, Zang M, Zhang Y, Lu H, Zhao Q, Wang S, Gao Y. Approaches and materials for endocytosis-independent intracellular delivery of proteins. Biomaterials 2022; 286:121567. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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24
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Feng S, Wang Z, Li A, Xie X, Liu J, Li S, Li Y, Wang B, Hu L, Yang L, Guo T. Strategies for High-Efficiency Mutation Using the CRISPR/Cas System. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:803252. [PMID: 35198566 PMCID: PMC8860194 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.803252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated systems have revolutionized traditional gene-editing tools and are a significant tool for ameliorating gene defects. Characterized by high target specificity, extraordinary efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, CRISPR/Cas systems have displayed tremendous potential for genetic manipulation in almost any organism and cell type. Despite their numerous advantages, however, CRISPR/Cas systems have some inherent limitations, such as off-target effects, unsatisfactory efficiency of delivery, and unwanted adverse effects, thereby resulting in a desire to explore approaches to address these issues. Strategies for improving the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas-induced mutations, such as reducing off-target effects, improving the design and modification of sgRNA, optimizing the editing time and the temperature, choice of delivery system, and enrichment of sgRNA, are comprehensively described in this review. Additionally, several newly emerging approaches, including the use of Cas variants, anti-CRISPR proteins, and mutant enrichment, are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the authors provide a deep analysis of the current challenges in the utilization of CRISPR/Cas systems and the future applications of CRISPR/Cas systems in various scenarios. This review not only serves as a reference for improving the maturity of CRISPR/Cas systems but also supplies practical guidance for expanding the applicability of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuying Feng
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zilong Wang
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Aifang Li
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xin Xie
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuxuan Li
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yalan Li
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Baiyan Wang
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lina Hu
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lianhe Yang
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
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25
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Bloomer H, Khirallah J, Li Y, Xu Q. CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein-mediated genome and epigenome editing in mammalian cells. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 181:114087. [PMID: 34942274 PMCID: PMC8844242 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) system has revolutionized the ability to edit the mammalian genome, providing a platform for the correction of pathogenic mutations and further investigation into gene function. CRISPR reagents can be delivered into the cell as DNA, RNA, or pre-formed ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). RNPs offer numerous advantages over other delivery approaches due to their ability to rapidly target genomic sites and quickly degrade thereafter. Here, we review the production steps and delivery methods for Cas9 RNPs. Additionally, we discuss how RNPs enhance genome and epigenome editing efficiencies, reduce off-target editing activity, and minimize cellular toxicity in clinically relevant mammalian cell types. We include details on a broad range of editing approaches, including novel base and prime editing techniques. Finally, we summarize key challenges for the use of RNPs, and propose future perspectives on the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan Bloomer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US,School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, US
| | - Jennifer Khirallah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US
| | - Yamin Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US,Corresponding Authors: (Y. Li) and (Q. Xu)
| | - Qiaobing Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, US,Corresponding Authors: (Y. Li) and (Q. Xu)
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26
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Lin Y, Wagner E, Lächelt U. Non-viral delivery of the CRISPR/Cas system: DNA versus RNA versus RNP. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:1166-1192. [DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01658j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery, the CRISPR/Cas technology has rapidly become an essential tool in modern biomedical research. The opportunities to specifically modify and correct genomic DNA has also raised big hope...
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Horn JM, Obermeyer AC. Genetic and Covalent Protein Modification Strategies to Facilitate Intracellular Delivery. Biomacromolecules 2021; 22:4883-4904. [PMID: 34855385 PMCID: PMC9310055 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c00745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Protein-based therapeutics represent a rapidly growing segment of approved disease treatments. Successful intracellular delivery of proteins is an important precondition for expanded in vivo and in vitro applications of protein therapeutics. Direct modification of proteins and peptides for improved cytosolic translocation are a promising method of increasing delivery efficiency and expanding the viability of intracellular protein therapeutics. In this Review, we present recent advances in both synthetic and genetic protein modifications for intracellular delivery. Active endocytosis-based and passive internalization pathways are discussed, followed by a review of modification methods for improved cytosolic delivery. After establishing how proteins can be modified, general strategies for facilitating intracellular delivery, such as chemical supercharging or inclusion of cell-penetrating motifs, are covered. We then outline protein modifications that promote endosomal escape. We finally examine the delivery of two potential classes of therapeutic proteins, antibodies and associated antibody fragments, and gene editing proteins, such as cas9.
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Tang N, Ning Q, Wang Z, Tao Y, Zhao X, Tang S. Tumor microenvironment based stimuli-responsive CRISPR/Cas delivery systems: A viable platform for interventional approaches. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2021; 210:112257. [PMID: 34894597 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2021.112257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) systems have emerged as robust tools in cancer gene therapy due to their simplicity and versatility. Nevertheless, the genome editing efficiency in tumor sites and the clinical applications of CRISPR/Cas have been compromised by non-specific delivery and genotoxicity. Recently, intelligent delivery systems incorporating sensitive materials in response to endogenous stimuli of the tumor microenvironment (TME) have represented viable platforms for tumor-specific genome editing and reduced side effects of CRISPR/Cas. Spurred by this promising direction, this review first introduces the CRISPR/Cas systems widely employed in cancer therapeutic explorations. Various types of CRISPR/Cas delivery systems sensitive to the stimuli in TME and typical dual-/multiple-responsive CRISPR/Cas carriers are further discussed, emphasizing the correlations between sensitive components and spatiotemporal delivery mechanisms. The genome editing efficiencies of CRISPR/Cas-loaded stimuli-responsive carriers are also summarized both in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, stimuli-responsive CRISPR/Cas delivery systems hold great promise for potent cancer gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanyang Tang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, and Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Qian Ning
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
| | - Zewei Wang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, and Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Yifang Tao
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, and Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Xuhong Zhao
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Shengsong Tang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, and Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
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29
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Xu J, Li Z, Fan Q, Lv J, Li Y, Cheng Y. Dynamic Polymer Amphiphiles for Efficient Intracellular and In Vivo Protein Delivery. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2104355. [PMID: 34658077 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202104355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular delivery of proteins is receiving considerable attention in biotherapeutics for various diseases by replacing dysfunctional proteins. Successful intracellular protein delivery highly relies on the development of efficient and safe polymeric carriers, which remains a grand challenge due to the lack of strong binding sites on proteins and their distinct molecular sizes and polarities. In this work, a strategy is proposed for efficient intracellular protein delivery by using dynamic polymer supra-amphiphiles, which are prepared by grafting boronated polylysine with a series of lipidated catechols via dynamic covalent catechol-boronate ester bonds. The prepared supra-amphiphiles can coassemble with proteins to form stable nanoparticles in water and also enable the release of bound proteins in cells due to their dynamic features, thereby strongly promoting the intracellular delivery process. The lead supra-amphiphiles screened in the library demonstrate high efficiency in the delivery of various proteins including bovine serum albumin, β-galactosidase, α-chymotrypsin, saporin, R-phycoerythrin, ovalbumin, catalase, and superoxide dismutase, and show great potency in delivering superoxide dismutase to treat ulcerative colitis in vivo. This work provides new opportunities for rational design and facile construction of robust intracellular protein delivery materials by the integration of polymer chemistry and supramolecular engineering strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingke Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Zhan Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Qianqian Fan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Jia Lv
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Yiwen Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Yiyun Cheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
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30
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CRISPR/Cas9 Delivery System Engineering for Genome Editing in Therapeutic Applications. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101649. [PMID: 34683943 PMCID: PMC8538656 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) systems have emerged as a robust and versatile genome editing platform for gene correction, transcriptional regulation, disease modeling, and nucleic acids imaging. However, the insufficient transfection and off-target risks have seriously hampered the potential biomedical applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Herein, we review the recent progress towards CRISPR/Cas9 system delivery based on viral and non-viral vectors. We summarize the CRISPR/Cas9-inspired clinical trials and analyze the CRISPR/Cas9 delivery technology applied in the trials. The rational-designed non-viral vectors for delivering three typical forms of CRISPR/Cas9 system, including plasmid DNA (pDNA), mRNA, and ribonucleoprotein (RNP, Cas9 protein complexed with gRNA) were highlighted in this review. The vector-derived strategies to tackle the off-target concerns were further discussed. Moreover, we consider the challenges and prospects to realize the clinical potential of CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing.
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31
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Sun B, Chen H, Gao X. Versatile modification of the CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein system to facilitate in vivo application. J Control Release 2021; 337:698-717. [PMID: 34364918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The development of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) systems has created a tremendous wave that is sweeping the world of genome editing. The ribonucleoprotein (RNP) method has evolved to be the most advantageous form for in vivo application. Modification of the CRISPR/Cas9 RNP method to adapt delivery through a variety of carriers can either directly improve the stability and specificity of the gene-editing tool in vivo or indirectly endow the system with high gene-editing efficiency that induces few off-target mutations through different delivery methods. The exploration of in vivo applications mediated by various delivery methods lays the foundation for genome research and variety improvements, which is especially promising for better in vivo research in the field of translational biomedicine. In this review, we illustrate the modifiable structures of the Cas9 nuclease and single guide RNA (sgRNA), summarize the latest research progress and discuss the feasibility and advantages of various methods. The highlighted results will enhance our knowledge, stimulate extensive research and application of Cas9 and provide alternatives for the development of rational delivery carriers in multiple fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bixi Sun
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, 1266 Fujin Road, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Hening Chen
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, 1266 Fujin Road, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xiaoshu Gao
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, 1266 Fujin Road, Changchun 130021, China.
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32
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Wang Q, Yang Y, Liu D, Ji Y, Gao X, Yin J, Yao W. Cytosolic Protein Delivery for Intracellular Antigen Targeting Using Supercharged Polypeptide Delivery Platform. NANO LETTERS 2021; 21:6022-6030. [PMID: 34227381 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c01190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite the well-recognized clinical success of therapeutic proteins, especially antibodies, their inability to penetrate the cell membrane restricts them to secretory extracellular or membrane-associated targets. Developing a direct cytosolic protein delivery system would offer unique opportunities for intracellular target-related therapeutic proteins. Here, we generated a supercharged polypeptide (SCP) with high cellular uptake efficiency, endosomal escape ability, and good biosafety and developed an SCP with an unnatural amino acid containing the phenylboronic acid (PBA) group, called PBA-SCP. PBA-SCP is capable of potently delivering proteins with various isoelectric points and molecular sizes into the cytosol of living cells without affecting their bioactivities. Importantly, cytosolically delivered antibodies remain functional and are capable of targeting, labeling, and manipulating diverse intracellular antigens. This study demonstrates an efficient and versatile intracellular protein delivery platform, especially for antibodies, and provides new possibilities for expanding protein-based therapeutics to intracellular "undruggable" targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenbing Yao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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33
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyun Cheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology Guangzhou Guangdong 510640 China
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34
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Yang Z, Lee MMM, Chan MK. Efficient intracellular delivery of p53 protein by engineered protein crystals restores tumor suppressing function in vivo. Biomaterials 2021; 271:120759. [PMID: 33798968 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Direct delivery of proteins into cells holds significant potential for basic research and drug development. However, the poor endosomal escape of conventional delivery strategies remains a challenge, thus limiting the clinical translation of many protein therapeutics. Herein, we report that engineered Cry3Aa protein (Pos3Aa) crystals formed naturally within Bacillus thuringiensis can serve as a vehicle for efficient cytosolic delivery of bioactive proteins. We showed that Pos3Aa-mediated delivery of tumor suppressor p53 protein, a promising therapeutic candidate found to be inactivated in nearly half of human cancers, resulted in the restoration of p53 function in p53-deficient cancer cells, and thereby sensitized them to 5-fluorouracil chemotherapy as demonstrated in in vitro and in vivo models. Our results validate that Pos3Aa crystals can be a robust and effective platform for the cytosolic delivery of effector proteins, and suggest that efficient uptake and endosomal escape could be critical for efficacious p53 protein-based cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaofeng Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Marianne M M Lee
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Michael K Chan
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
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35
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Zhang S, Shen J, Li D, Cheng Y. Strategies in the delivery of Cas9 ribonucleoprotein for CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Theranostics 2021; 11:614-648. [PMID: 33391496 PMCID: PMC7738854 DOI: 10.7150/thno.47007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing has gained rapidly increasing attentions in recent years, however, the translation of this biotechnology into therapy has been hindered by efficient delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 materials into target cells. Direct delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 system as a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex consisting of Cas9 protein and single guide RNA (sgRNA) has emerged as a powerful and widespread method for genome editing due to its advantages of transient genome editing and reduced off-target effects. In this review, we summarized the current Cas9 RNP delivery systems including physical approaches and synthetic carriers. The mechanisms and beneficial roles of these strategies in intracellular Cas9 RNP delivery were reviewed. Examples in the development of stimuli-responsive and targeted carriers for RNP delivery are highlighted. Finally, the challenges of current Cas9 RNP delivery systems and perspectives in rational design of next generation materials for this promising field will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Zhang
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Jiangtao Shen
- The Second People's Hospital of Taizhou affiliated to Yangzhou University, Taizhou, 225500, China
| | - Dali Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yiyun Cheng
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
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36
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Wei T, Cheng Q, Farbiak L, Anderson DG, Langer R, Siegwart DJ. Delivery of Tissue-Targeted Scalpels: Opportunities and Challenges for In Vivo CRISPR/Cas-Based Genome Editing. ACS NANO 2020; 14:9243-9262. [PMID: 32697075 PMCID: PMC7996671 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c04707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing has quickly emerged as a powerful breakthrough technology for use in diverse settings across biomedical research and therapeutic development. Recent efforts toward understanding gene modification methods in vitro have led to substantial improvements in ex vivo genome editing efficiency. Because disease targets for genomic correction are often localized in specific organs, realization of the full potential of genomic medicines will require delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 systems targeting specific tissues and cells directly in vivo. In this Perspective, we focus on progress toward in vivo delivery of CRISPR/Cas components. Viral and nonviral delivery systems are both promising for gene editing in diverse tissues via local injection and systemic injection. We describe the various viral vectors and synthetic nonviral materials used for in vivo gene editing and applications to research and therapeutic models, and summarize opportunities and progress to date for both methods. We also discuss challenges for viral delivery, including overcoming limited packaging capacity, immunogenicity associated with multiple dosing, and the potential for off-target effects, and nonviral delivery, including efforts to increase efficacy and to expand utility of nonviral carriers for use in extrahepatic tissues and cancer. Looking ahead, additional advances in the safety and efficiency of viral and nonviral delivery systems for tissue- and cell-type-specific gene editing will be required to enable broad clinical translation. We provide a summary of current delivery systems used for in vivo genome editing, organized with respect to route of administration, and highlight immediate opportunities for biomedical research and applications. Furthermore, we discuss current challenges for in vivo delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 systems to guide the development of future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Wei
- Department of Biochemistry, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Qiang Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Lukas Farbiak
- Department of Biochemistry, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
| | - Daniel G. Anderson
- Department of Chemical Engineering, David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Robert Langer
- Department of Chemical Engineering, David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Daniel J. Siegwart
- Department of Biochemistry, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, United States
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Lau CH, Tin C. The Synergy between CRISPR and Chemical Engineering. Curr Gene Ther 2020; 19:147-171. [PMID: 31267870 DOI: 10.2174/1566523219666190701100556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy and transgenic research have advanced quickly in recent years due to the development of CRISPR technology. The rapid development of CRISPR technology has been largely benefited by chemical engineering. Firstly, chemical or synthetic substance enables spatiotemporal and conditional control of Cas9 or dCas9 activities. It prevents the leaky expression of CRISPR components, as well as minimizes toxicity and off-target effects. Multi-input logic operations and complex genetic circuits can also be implemented via multiplexed and orthogonal regulation of target genes. Secondly, rational chemical modifications to the sgRNA enhance gene editing efficiency and specificity by improving sgRNA stability and binding affinity to on-target genomic loci, and hence reducing off-target mismatches and systemic immunogenicity. Chemically-modified Cas9 mRNA is also more active and less immunogenic than the native mRNA. Thirdly, nonviral vehicles can circumvent the challenges associated with viral packaging and production through the delivery of Cas9-sgRNA ribonucleoprotein complex or large Cas9 expression plasmids. Multi-functional nanovectors enhance genome editing in vivo by overcoming multiple physiological barriers, enabling ligand-targeted cellular uptake, and blood-brain barrier crossing. Chemical engineering can also facilitate viral-based delivery by improving vector internalization, allowing tissue-specific transgene expression, and preventing inactivation of the viral vectors in vivo. This review aims to discuss how chemical engineering has helped improve existing CRISPR applications and enable new technologies for biomedical research. The usefulness, advantages, and molecular action for each chemical engineering approach are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cia-Hin Lau
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Chung Tin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
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39
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Sumito N, Koeda S, Umezawa N, Inoue Y, Tsukiji S, Higuchi T, Mizuno T. Development of Cell-Penetration PG-Surfactants and Its Application in External Peptide Delivery to Cytosol. Bioconjug Chem 2020; 31:821-833. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.9b00877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natsumi Sumito
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8555, Japan
| | - Shuhei Koeda
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8555, Japan
| | - Naoki Umezawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
| | - Yasumichi Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
| | - Shinya Tsukiji
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8555, Japan
- Department of Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8555, Japan
- Frontier Research Institute for Materials Science (FRIMS), Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho,
Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8555, Japan
| | - Tsunehiko Higuchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
| | - Toshihisa Mizuno
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8555, Japan
- Department of Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-cho Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8555, Japan
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40
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Zhang S, Cheng Y. Boronic acid-engineered gold nanoparticles for cytosolic protein delivery. Biomater Sci 2020; 8:3741-3750. [DOI: 10.1039/d0bm00679c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Boronic acid-engineered gold nanoparticles for effective cytosolic protein delivery with the help of hypertonicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Zhang
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology
- School of Molecular Science and Engineering
- South China University of Technology
- Guangzhou 510640
- China
| | - Yiyun Cheng
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology
- School of Molecular Science and Engineering
- South China University of Technology
- Guangzhou 510640
- China
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41
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Zheng F, Wang C, Meng T, Zhang Y, Zhang P, Shen Q, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Li J, Min Q, Chen J, Zhu JJ. Outer-Frame-Degradable Nanovehicles Featuring Near-Infrared Dual Luminescence for in Vivo Tracking of Protein Delivery in Cancer Therapy. ACS NANO 2019; 13:12577-12590. [PMID: 31657911 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b03424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In vivo monitoring of cargo protein delivery is critical for understanding the pharmacological efficacies and mechanisms during cancer therapy, but it still remains a formidable challenge because of the difficulty in observing nonfluorescent proteins at high resolution and sensitivity. Here we report an outer-frame-degradable nanovehicle featuring near-infrared (NIR) dual luminescence for real-time tracking of protein delivery in vivo. Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and fluorophore-doped degradable macroporous silica (DS) with spectral overlap were coupled to form a core-shell nanostructure as a therapeutic protein nanocarrier, which was eventually enveloped with a hyaluronic acid (HA) shell to prevent protein leakage and for recognizing tumor sites. The DS layer served as both a container to accommodate the therapeutic proteins and a filter to attenuate upconversion luminescence (UCL) of the inner UCNPs. After the nanovehicles selectively accumulated at tumor sites and entered cancer cells, intracellular hyaluronidase (HAase) digested the outermost HA protective shell and initiated the outer frame degradation-induced protein release and UCL restoration of UCNPs in the intracellular environment. Significantly, the biodistribution of the nanovehicles can be traced at the 710 nm NIR fluorescence channel of DS, whereas the protein release can be monitored at the 660 nm NIR fluorescence channel of UCNPs. Real-time tracking of protein delivery and release was achieved in vitro and in vivo by NIR fluorescence imaging. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies manifest that the protein cytochrome c-loaded nanovehicles exhibited excellent cancer therapeutic efficacy. This nanoplatform assembled by the outer-frame-degradable nanovehicles featuring NIR dual luminescence not only advances our understanding of where, when, and how therapeutic proteins take effect in vivo but also provides a universal route for visualizing the translocation of other bioactive macromolecules in cancer treatment and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenfen Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
- School of Environmental & Chemical Engineering , Jiangsu University of Science and Technology , Zhenjiang , Jiangsu 212003 , China
| | - Chen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Tiantian Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Yuqian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Penghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Qi Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Yuchao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Jianxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Qianhao Min
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Jiangning Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Nanjing University , Nanjing 210023 , China
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Lv J, Fan Q, Wang H, Cheng Y. Polymers for cytosolic protein delivery. Biomaterials 2019; 218:119358. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Yin J, Hou S, Wang Q, Bao L, Liu D, Yue Y, Yao W, Gao X. Microenvironment-Responsive Delivery of the Cas9 RNA-Guided Endonuclease for Efficient Genome Editing. Bioconjug Chem 2019; 30:898-906. [PMID: 30802405 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.9b00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Successful and efficient delivery of Cas9 protein and gRNA into cells is critical for genome editing and its therapeutic application. In this study, we developed an improved supercharged polypeptide (SCP) mediated delivery system based on dithiocyclopeptide linker to realize the effective genome editing in tumor cells. The fusion protein Cas9-linker-SCP (Cas9-LS) forms positively charged complexes with gRNA in vitro to provide possibilities for gRNA delivery into cells. Under the microenvironment of tumor cells, the dithiocyclopeptide linker, containing matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) sensitive sequence and an intramolecular disulfide bond, can be completely disconnected to promote the release of Cas9 protein with the nuclear localization sequence (NLS) in the cytoplasm and transfer to the cell nucleus for highly efficient genome editing, resulting in an obvious increase of indel efficiency in comparison to fusion protein without dithiocyclopeptide linker (Cas9-SCP). Furthermore, Cas9-LS shows no significant cytotoxicity and minimal hemolytic activity. We envision that the microenvironment-responsive Cas9 protein delivery system can facilitate more efficient genome editing in tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
| | - Shan Hou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
| | - Qun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
| | - Lichen Bao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
| | - Yali Yue
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
| | - Wenbing Yao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology , China Pharmaceutical University , Nanjing 210009 , China
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