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Perin E, Loveland L, Caporusso J, Dove C, Motley T, Sigal F, Vartivarian M, Oliva F, Armstrong DG. Gene therapy for diabetic foot ulcers: Interim analysis of a randomised, placebo-controlled phase 3 study of VM202 (ENGENSIS), a plasmid DNA expressing two isoforms of human hepatocyte growth factor. Int Wound J 2023; 20:3531-3539. [PMID: 37230802 PMCID: PMC10588355 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.14226] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the status of a 7-month phase 3 study conducted to test the effect of intramuscular injections of VM202 (ENGENSIS), a plasmid DNA encoding human hepatocyte growth factor, into the calf muscles of chronic nonhealing diabetic foot ulcers with concomitant peripheral artery disease. The phase 3 study, originally aimed to recruit 300 subjects, was discontinued because of slow patient recruitment. An unprespecified interim analysis was performed for the 44 subjects enrolled to assess the status and determine the future direction. Statistical analyses were carried out for the Intent-to-Treat (ITT) population and separately for subjects with neuroischemic ulcers, using a t-test and Fisher's exact test. A logistic regression analysis was also conducted. VM202 was safe and potentially should have benefits. In the ITT population (N = 44), there was a positive trend toward closure in the VM202 group from 3 to 6 months but with no statistical significance. Levels of ulcer volume or area were found to be highly skewed between the placebo and VM202 groups. Forty subjects, excluding four outliers in both arms, showed significant wound-closing effects at month 6 (P = .0457). In 23 patients with neuroischemic ulcers, the percentage of subjects reaching complete ulcer closure was significantly higher in the VM202 group at months 3, 4, and 5 (P = .0391, .0391, and .0361). When two outliers were excluded, a significant difference was evident in months 3, 4, 5, and 6 (P = .03 for all points). A potentially clinically meaningful 0.15 increase in Ankle-Brachial Index was observed in the VM202 group at day 210 in the ITT population (P = .0776). Intramuscular injections of VM202 plasmid DNA to calf muscle may have promise in the treatment of chronic neuroischemic diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Given the safety profile and potential healing effects, continuing a larger DFU study is warranted with modifications of the current protocol and expansion of enrolling sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emerson Perin
- Director of the Center for Clinical ResearchTexas Heart InstituteHoustonTexasUSA
| | | | - Joseph Caporusso
- Complete Family Foot CareFuturo Clinical Trials, LLCMcAllenTexasUSA
| | - Cyaandi Dove
- Department of OrthopaedicsUT Health San AntonioSan AntonioTexasUSA
| | - Travis Motley
- Medical Director, PodiatryAcclaim Bone & Joint InstituteFort WorthTexasUSA
| | - Felix Sigal
- Podiatric MedicineFoot and Ankle ClinicLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | - David G Armstrong
- Department of SurgeryKeck School of Medicine of the University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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Kupczyńska D, Lubieniecki P, Antkiewicz M, Barć J, Frączkowska-Sioma K, Dawiskiba T, Dorobisz T, Małodobra-Mazur M, Baczyńska D, Pańczak K, Witkiewicz W, Janczak D, Skóra JP, Barć P. Complementary Gene Therapy after Revascularization with the Saphenous Vein in Diabetic Foot Syndrome. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1968. [PMID: 37895317 PMCID: PMC10606318 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101968] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is one of the most serious macroangiopathic complications of diabetes. The primary treatment option is revascularization, but complementary therapies are still being sought. The study group consisted of 18 patients diagnosed with ischemic ulcerative and necrotic lesions in DFS. Patients underwent revascularization procedures and, due to unsatisfactory healing of the lesions, were randomly allocated to two groups: a group in which bicistronic VEGF165/HGF plasmid was administered and a control group in which saline placebo was administered. Before gene therapy administration and after 7, 30, 90, and 180 days, color duplex ultrasonography (CDU) was performed, the ankle-brachial index (ABI) and transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) were measured, and DFS changes were described and documented photographically. In the gene therapy group, four out of eight patients (50%) healed their DFS lesions before 12 weeks. During this time, the ABI increased by an average of 0.25 and TcPO2 by 30.4 mmHg. In the control group, healing of the lesions by week 12 occurred in six out of nine patients (66.67%), and the ABI increased by an average of 0.14 and TcPO2 by 27.1 mmHg. One major amputation occurred in each group. Gene therapy may be an attractive option for complementary treatment in DFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Kupczyńska
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Paweł Lubieniecki
- Clinical Department of Diabetology and Internal Disease, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Antkiewicz
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Jan Barć
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Frączkowska-Sioma
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Tomasz Dawiskiba
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Tadeusz Dorobisz
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Małgorzata Małodobra-Mazur
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Division of Molecular Techniques, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Dagmara Baczyńska
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Konrad Pańczak
- Lecran Wound Care Center, Trawowa 63a, 54-614 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Wojciech Witkiewicz
- Research and Development Center, Regional Specialized Hospital in Wroclaw, Kamienskiego 73a, 51-124 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Janczak
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Jan Paweł Skóra
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Piotr Barć
- Clinical Department of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.K.); (M.A.); (K.F.-S.); (T.D.); (T.D.); (D.J.); (J.P.S.); (P.B.)
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Casper J, Schenk SH, Parhizkar E, Detampel P, Dehshahri A, Huwyler J. Polyethylenimine (PEI) in gene therapy: Current status and clinical applications. J Control Release 2023; 362:667-691. [PMID: 37666302 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.09.001] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Polyethlyenimine (PEI) was introduced 1995 as a cationic polymer for nucleic acid delivery. PEI and its derivatives are extensively used in basic research and as reference formulations in the field of polymer-based gene delivery. Despite its widespread use, the number of clinical applications to date is limited. Thus, this review aims to consolidate the past applications of PEI in DNA delivery, elucidate the obstacles that hinder its transition to clinical use, and highlight potential prospects for novel iterations of PEI derivatives. The present review article is divided into three sections. The first section examines the mechanism of action employed by PEI, examining fundamental aspects of cellular delivery including uptake mechanisms, release from endosomes, and transport into the cell nucleus, along with potential strategies for enhancing these delivery phases. Moreover, an in-depth analysis is conducted concerning the mechanism underlying cellular toxicity, accompanied with approaches to overcome this major challenge. The second part is devoted to the in vivo performance of PEI and its application in various therapeutic indications. While systemic administration has proven to be challenging, alternative localized delivery routes hold promise, such as treatment of solid tumors, application as a vaccine, or serving as a therapeutic agent for pulmonary delivery. In the last section, the outcome of completed and ongoing clinical trials is summarized. Finally, an expert opinion is provided on the potential of PEI and its future applications. PEI-based formulations for nucleic acid delivery have a promising potential, it will be an important task for the years to come to introduce innovations that address PEI-associated shortcomings by introducing well-designed PEI formulations in combination with an appropriate route of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Casper
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susanne H Schenk
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Elahehnaz Parhizkar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Pascal Detampel
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ali Dehshahri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
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Okamoto Y, Takashima H. The Current State of Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Treatment. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1391. [PMID: 37510296 PMCID: PMC10379063 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071391] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and associated neuropathies are the most predominant genetically transmitted neuromuscular conditions; however, effective pharmacological treatments have not established. The extensive genetic heterogeneity of CMT, which impacts the peripheral nerves and causes lifelong disability, presents a significant barrier to the development of comprehensive treatments. An estimated 100 loci within the human genome are linked to various forms of CMT and its related inherited neuropathies. This review delves into prospective therapeutic strategies used for the most frequently encountered CMT variants, namely CMT1A, CMT1B, CMTX1, and CMT2A. Compounds such as PXT3003, which are being clinically and preclinically investigated, and a broad array of therapeutic agents and their corresponding mechanisms are discussed. Furthermore, the progress in established gene therapy techniques, including gene replacement via viral vectors, exon skipping using antisense oligonucleotides, splicing modification, and gene knockdown, are appraised. Each of these gene therapies has the potential for substantial advancements in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Okamoto
- Department of Neurology and Geriatrics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takashima
- Department of Neurology and Geriatrics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
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Stavrou M, Kleopa KA. CMT1A current gene therapy approaches and promising biomarkers. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:1434-1440. [PMID: 36571339 PMCID: PMC10075121 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.361538] [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: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies (CMT) constitute a group of common but highly heterogeneous, non-syndromic genetic disorders affecting predominantly the peripheral nervous system. CMT type 1A (CMT1A) is the most frequent type and accounts for almost ~50% of all diagnosed CMT cases. CMT1A results from the duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) gene. Overexpression of PMP22 protein overloads the protein folding apparatus in Schwann cells and activates the unfolded protein response. This leads to Schwann cell apoptosis, dys- and de- myelination and secondary axonal degeneration, ultimately causing neurological disabilities. During the last decades, several different gene therapies have been developed to treat CMT1A. Almost all of them remain at the pre-clinical stage using CMT1A animal models overexpressing PMP22. The therapeutic goal is to achieve gene silencing, directly or indirectly, thereby reversing the CMT1A genetic mechanism allowing the recovery of myelination and prevention of axonal loss. As promising treatments are rapidly emerging, treatment-responsive and clinically relevant biomarkers are becoming necessary. These biomarkers and sensitive clinical evaluation tools will facilitate the design and successful completion of future clinical trials for CMT1A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Stavrou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kleopas A Kleopa
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics; Center for Neuromuscular Disorders, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Shan S, Li Q, Criswell T, Atala A, Zhang Y. Stem cell therapy combined with controlled release of growth factors for the treatment of sphincter dysfunction. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:56. [PMID: 36927578 PMCID: PMC10018873 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01009-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphincter dysfunction often occurs at the end of tubule organs such as the urethra, anus, or gastroesophageal sphincters. It is the primary consequence of neuromuscular impairment caused by trauma, inflammation, and aging. Despite intensive efforts to recover sphincter function, pharmacological treatments have not achieved significant improvement. Cell- or growth factor-based therapy is a promising approach for neuromuscular regeneration and the recovery of sphincter function. However, a decrease in cell retention and viability, or the short half-life and rapid degradation of growth factors after implantation, remain obstacles to the translation of these therapies to the clinic. Natural biomaterials provide unique tools for controlled growth factor delivery, which leads to better outcomes for sphincter function recovery in vivo when stem cells and growth factors are co-administrated, in comparison to the delivery of single therapies. In this review, we discuss the role of stem cells combined with the controlled release of growth factors, the methods used for delivery, their potential therapeutic role in neuromuscular repair, and the outcomes of preclinical studies using combination therapy, with the hope of providing new therapeutic strategies to treat incontinence or sphincter dysfunction of the urethra, anus, or gastroesophageal tissues, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengzhou Shan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Tracy Criswell
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
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Di X, Liu C, Ni L, Ye W, Rong Z, Zhang R, Niu S, Li F, Zheng Y, Han C, Liu Y. Rationale and design for the study of recombinant human hepatocyte growth factor plasmid in the treatment of patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (HOPE CLTI): Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, phase III clinical trials. Am Heart J 2022; 254:88-101. [PMID: 36002048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2022.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although patients with CLTI have benefited from the rapid development of endovascular techniques, many patients are considered unsuitable for revascularization procedures. A previous phase II clinical trial has suggested that recombinant human hepatocyte growth factor plasmid (NL003) can salvage limbs during the treatment of patients with CLTI. However, the safety and efficacy of this drug need to be evaluated in a larger cohort. STUDY DESIGN HOPE CLTI is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intramuscular injection of NL003 in CLTI patients. This study consisted of 22 trials: HOPE CLTI-1, which includes patients with rest pain (Rutherford stage 4), and HOPE CLTI-2, which includes patients with limb ulcers (Rutherford stage 5). In both trials, patients are randomized with a 2:1 ratio of intramuscular injection of NL003 to placebo. The primary endpoint of HOPE CLTI-1 is the complete pain relief rate. The primary endpoint of HOPE CLTI-2 is the complete ulcer healing rate. The safety endpoint was assessed based on adverse events after injection of NL003. Enrollment began in July 2019. The HOPE CLTI-1 trial aims to complete the randomization of at least 300 patients, while the HOPE CLTI-2 trial aims to enroll at least 240 patients. Both trials are organized such that patients will be followed for 6 months after the first intramuscular injection. CONCLUSIONS HITOP CLTI, which is comprised of 2 multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III clinical trials, aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the intramuscular administration of NL003 in patients with CLTI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Di
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Changwei Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Leng Ni
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihua Rong
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Niu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fengshi Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuehong Zheng
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chengquan Han
- R&D Center of Beijing Northland Biotech. Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Yue Liu
- R&D Center of Beijing Northland Biotech. Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
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Wu Y, Lin X, Hong H, Fung YL, Cao X, Tse JKY, Li TH, Chan TF, Tian XY. Endothelium-targeted delivery of PPARδ by adeno-associated virus serotype 1 ameliorates vascular injury induced by hindlimb ischemia in obese mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 151:113172. [PMID: 35644115 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic vasculopathy is a major health problem worldwide. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), and in its severe form, critical limb ischemia is a major form of diabetic vasculopathy with limited treatment options. Existing literature suggested an important role of PPARδ in vascular homeostasis. It remains elusive for using PPARδ as a potential therapeutic target due to mostly the side effects of PPARδ agonists. To explore the roles of PPARδ in endothelial homeostasis, endothelial cell (EC) selective Ppard knockout and controlled mice were subjected to hindlimb ischemia (HLI) injury. The muscle ECs were sorted for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. HLI was also performed in high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice to examine the function of PPARδ in obese mice with delayed vascular repair. Adeno-associated virus type 1 (AAV1) carrying ICAM2 promoter to target endothelium for overexpressing PPARδ was injected into the injured muscles of normal chow- and HFD-fed obese mice before HLI surgery was performed. scRNA-seq analysis of ECs in ischemic muscles revealed a pivotal role of PPARδ in endothelial homeostasis. PPARδ expression was diminished both after HLI injury, and also in obese mice, which showed further delayed vascular repair. Endothelium-targeted delivery of PPARδ by AAV1 improved perfusion recovery, increased capillary density, restored endothelial integrity, suppressed vascular inflammation, and promoted muscle regeneration in ischemic hindlimbs of both lean and obese mice. Our study indicated the effectiveness of endothelium-targeted PPARδ overexpression for restoring functional vasculature after ischemic injury, which might be a promising option of gene therapy to treat PAD and CLI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Wu
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Huiling Hong
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yee Lok Fung
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoyun Cao
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Joyce Ka Yu Tse
- School of Life Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tsz Ho Li
- School of Life Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ting Fung Chan
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China; School of Life Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiao Yu Tian
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.
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Puhl DL, Mohanraj D, Nelson DW, Gilbert RJ. Designing electrospun fiber platforms for efficient delivery of genetic material and genome editing tools. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 183:114161. [PMID: 35183657 PMCID: PMC9724629 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Electrospun fibers are versatile biomaterial platforms with great potential to support regeneration. Electrospun fiber characteristics such as fiber diameter, degree of alignment, rate of degradation, and surface chemistry enable the creation of unique, tunable scaffolds for various drug or gene delivery applications. The delivery of genetic material and genome editing tools via viral and non-viral vectors are approaches to control cellular protein production. However, immunogenicity, off-target effects, and low delivery efficiencies slow the progression of gene delivery strategies to clinical settings. The delivery of genetic material from electrospun fibers overcomes such limitations by allowing for localized, tunable delivery of genetic material. However, the process of electrospinning is harsh, and care must be taken to retain genetic material bioactivity. This review presents an up-to-date summary of strategies to incorporate genetic material onto or within electrospun fiber platforms to improve delivery efficiency and enhance the regenerative potential of electrospun fibers for various tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devan L Puhl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA.
| | - Divya Mohanraj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA.
| | - Derek W Nelson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA.
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1623 15th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA.
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10
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A Thermoresponsive Chitosan/β-Glycerophosphate Hydrogel for Minimally Invasive Treatment of Critical Limb Ischaemia. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13203568. [PMID: 34685327 PMCID: PMC8539345 DOI: 10.3390/polym13203568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A reduction in blood supply to any limb causes ischaemia, pain and morbidity. Critical limb ischaemia is the most serious presentation of peripheral vascular disease. One in five patients with critical limb ischaemia will die within six months of diagnosis and one in three will require amputation in this time. Improving blood flow to the limb, via the administration of angiogenic agents, could relieve pain and avoid amputation. Herein, chitosan is combined with β-glycerophosphate to form a thermoresponsive formulation (chitosan/β-GP) that will flow through a syringe and needle at room temperature but will form a gel at body temperature. The chitosan/β-GP hydrogel, with or without the angiogenic molecule desferrioxamine (DFO), was injected into the mouse hind limb, following vessel ligation, to test the ability of the formulations to induce angiogenesis. The effects of the formulations were measured using laser Doppler imaging to determine limb perfusion and CD31 staining to quantify the number of blood vessels. Twenty-eight days following induction of ischaemia, the chitosan/β-GP and chitosan/β-GP + 100 µM DFO formulations had significantly (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively) improved blood flow in the ischaemic limb compared with an untreated control. Chitosan/β-GP increased vessel number by 1.7-fold in the thigh of the ischaemic limb compared with an untreated control, while chitosan/β-GP + 100 µM DFO increased vessel number 1.8-fold. Chitosan/β-GP represents a potential minimally invasive treatment for critical limb ischaemia.
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Pinczak W, Trzcińska S, Kamiński M. Characteristics and outcomes of clinical trials on gene therapy in non-congenital cardiovascular diseases: cross-sectional study of three clinical trials registries (Preprint). JMIR Form Res 2021; 6:e33893. [PMID: 35451992 PMCID: PMC9073605 DOI: 10.2196/33893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Witold Pinczak
- Department of Medicine I, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Stavrou M, Sargiannidou I, Georgiou E, Kagiava A, Kleopa KA. Emerging Therapies for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Inherited Neuropathies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6048. [PMID: 34205075 PMCID: PMC8199910 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited neuropathies known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease are genetically heterogeneous disorders affecting the peripheral nerves, causing significant and slowly progressive disability over the lifespan. The discovery of their diverse molecular genetic mechanisms over the past three decades has provided the basis for developing a wide range of therapeutics, leading to an exciting era of finding treatments for this, until now, incurable group of diseases. Many treatment approaches, including gene silencing and gene replacement therapies, as well as small molecule treatments are currently in preclinical testing while several have also reached clinical trial stage. Some of the treatment approaches are disease-specific targeted to the unique disease mechanism of each CMT form, while other therapeutics target common pathways shared by several or all CMT types. As promising treatments reach the stage of clinical translation, optimal outcome measures, novel biomarkers and appropriate trial designs are crucial in order to facilitate successful testing and validation of novel treatments for CMT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Stavrou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Irene Sargiannidou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Elena Georgiou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Alexia Kagiava
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Kleopas A. Kleopa
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
- Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
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Gu Y, Cui S, Liu C, Zhao J, Li M, Li Y, Yang X, Lv B, Li M, Zhao W, Guo W, Huang J, Huang W, Qiu Z, Zhao J, Yin P, Qin T, Zhu D, Sun W, Ren K, Lu Y, Cheng X, Du L, Xiao F, Zhang Q, Wu Z. pUDK-HGF Gene Therapy to Relieve CLI Rest Pain and Ulcer: A Phase II, Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:839-849. [PMID: 33726499 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This phase II clinical trial investigated the efficacy and safety of intramuscular injection of plasmid pUDK-HGF, which encodes the human hepatocyte growth factor gene in patients with critical limb ischemia. Resting pain patients (n = 119) and patients with leg ulcers (n = 121) were enrolled as two cohorts and randomized to receive pUDK-HGF treatment on days 0, 14, and 28. In the resting pain cohort, the proportion of patients with complete pain relief on day 180 after receiving pUDK-HGF injection, as the primary outcome, was significantly higher than that of the placebo group on the same day (p = 0.0148). More responders with >50% pain reduction were also observed in the pUDK-HGF groups than in the placebo groups (p = 0.0168). In the ulcer cohort of patients, pUDK-HGF treatment tended to be superior to the placebo in the percentage of patients with both complete ulcer healing and >50% ulcer healing. No significant differences in the incidence of adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs were observed among the groups. The mid-dose pUDK-HGF (6 mg) was the most efficacious, and is therefore an appropriate dose for use in a phase III clinical trial. This study was approved by the China Food and Drug Administration (2013L00637), China Clinical Trial Registry URL: www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn. Unique Identifier: 20130378.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongquan Gu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shijun Cui
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Changjian Liu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Nanjin Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jichun Zhao
- Vascular Surgery Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Li
- Vascular Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Li
- Vascular Surgery Department, Wuhan Union Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinglong Yang
- General Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bonan Lv
- General Surgery Department, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Mingzhang Li
- General Surgery Department, Baotou Central Hospital, Baotou, China
| | - Wenguang Zhao
- Vascular Surgery Department, The First Bethune Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Vascular Surgery Department, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Huang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wen Huang
- Vascular Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqin Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhenming Qiu
- General Surgery Department, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Linhai, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- General Surgery Department, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Yin
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Qin
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Zhu
- Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co. Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Sun
- Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co. Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Keyun Ren
- Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co. Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Yuxin Lu
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochen Cheng
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Li Du
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Fengjun Xiao
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qinglin Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zuze Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
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14
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Kessler JA, Shaibani A, Sang CN, Christiansen M, Kudrow D, Vinik A, Shin N. Gene therapy for diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized, placebo-controlled phase III study of VM202, a plasmid DNA encoding human hepatocyte growth factor. Clin Transl Sci 2021; 14:1176-1184. [PMID: 33465273 PMCID: PMC8212761 DOI: 10.1111/cts.12977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
VM202 is a plasmid DNA encoding two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). A previous phase II study in subjects with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) showed significant reductions in pain. A phase III study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VM202 in DPN. The trial was conducted in two parts, one for 9 months (DPN 3-1) with 500 subjects (VM202: 336 subjects; and placebo: 164) and a preplanned subset of 101 subjects (VM202: 65 subjects; and placebo: 36) with a noninterventional extension to 12 months (DPN 3-1b). VM202 or placebo was administered to calf muscles on days 0 and 14, and on days 90 and 104. The primary end point in DPN 3-1 was change from baseline in the mean 24-h Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain score. In DPN 3-1b, the primary end point was safety, whereas the secondary efficacy end point was change in the mean pain score. VM202 was well-tolerated in both studies without significant adverse events. VM202 failed to meet its efficacy end points in DPN 3-1. In DPN 3-1b, however, VM202 showed significant and clinically meaningful pain reduction versus placebo. Pain reduction in DPN 3-1b was even greater in subjects not receiving gabapentin or pregabalin, confirming an observation noted in the phase II study. In DPN 3-1b, symptomatic relief was maintained for 8 months after the last injection suggesting that VM202 treatment might change disease progression. Despite the perplexing discrepancy between the two studies, the safety and long-lasting pain-relieving effects of VM202 observed in DPN 3-1b warrant another rigorous phase III study. Study Highlights WHAT IS THE CURRENT KNOWLEDGE ON THE TOPIC? Current therapies for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) are palliative and do not target the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, symptomatic relief is often limited with existing neuropathic pain drugs. Thus, there is a great medical need for safer and effective treatments for DPN. WHAT QUESTION DID THIS STUDY ADDRESS? Can nonviral gene delivery of hepatocyte growth factor reduce pain in patients with DPN and potentially modify progression of the disorder? WHAT DOES THIS STUDY ADD TO OUR KNOWLEDGE? Nonviral gene therapy can be used safely and practically to treat DPN. HOW MIGHT THIS CHANGE CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY OR TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE? As the first gene medicine to enter advanced clinical trials for the treatment of DPN, this study provides the proof of concept of an entirely new potential approach to the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Kessler
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Aziz Shaibani
- Nerve and Muscle Center of Texas, Texas Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Christine N Sang
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - David Kudrow
- Neurological Research Institute, Santa Monica, California, USA
| | - Aaron Vinik
- Strelitz Diabetes Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Abstract
Buerger’s disease or Thromboangiitis Obliterans (TAO) is a nonatherosclerotic segmental vascular disease which affects small and medium arteries and veins in the upper and lower extremities. Based on pathological findings, TAO can be considered as a distinct form of vasculitis that is most prevalent in young male smokers. There is no definitive cure for this disease as therapeutic modalities are limited in number and efficacy. Surgical bypass has limited utility and 24% of patients will ultimately require amputation. Recently, studies have shown that therapeutic angiogenesis and immunomodulatory approaches through the delivery of stem cells to target tissues are potential options for ischemic lesion treatment. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of TAO treatment and provide an overview of stem cell-based treatment modalities.
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Shimamura M, Nakagami H, Sanada F, Morishita R. Progress of Gene Therapy in Cardiovascular Disease. Hypertension 2020; 76:1038-1044. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.14478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy has been extensively studied in peripheral and cardiac ischemia, heart and vein graft failure, and dyslipidemia, but most clinical trials failed to show their efficacies despite good outcomes in preclinical studies. So far, 2 gene therapies for dyslipidemia and one for critical limb ischemia in peripheral artery disease have been approved. In critical limb ischemia, gene therapy using proangiogenic factors has emerged as a novel therapeutic modality for promoting angiogenesis. Initial researches mainly focused on vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, or hepatocyte growth factor. After the favorable results of basic research, several phase I and II clinical trials of these proangiogenic factors have shown promising results. However, only a phase III clinical trial of the intramuscular injection of hepatocyte growth factor plasmid DNA has shown successful outcomes, and it was recently approved in Japan for treating patients with critical limb ischemia who have ulcers and for whom no alternative therapeutic options are available. DNA vaccine is another promising modality of gene therapy. An antitumor vaccine suppressing angiogenesis through the inhibition of proangiogenic factors and an antihypertensive vaccine inhibiting the renin–angiotensin system are representative DNA vaccines. The advantage of DNA vaccine is its long-term effectiveness with a few vaccinations; however, the benefits and risks, such as adverse T-cell reaction against self-antigen or long-term side effects, of DNA vaccines should be carefully evaluated. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in proangiogenic gene therapy for critical limb ischemia and DNA vaccine for hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munehisa Shimamura
- From the Department of Health Development and Medicine, Japan (M.S., H.N.)
| | - Hironori Nakagami
- From the Department of Health Development and Medicine, Japan (M.S., H.N.)
| | - Fumihiro Sanada
- Department of Clinical Gene Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Japan (F.S., R.M.)
| | - Ryuichi Morishita
- Department of Clinical Gene Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Japan (F.S., R.M.)
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Han SW, Vergani CA, Reis PEO. Is gene therapy for limb ischemia a reality? J Vasc Bras 2020; 19:e20190059. [PMID: 34178054 PMCID: PMC8202161 DOI: 10.1590/1677-5449.190059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of angiogenic therapy emerged in the early 1990s. The method employs
genes that encode growth factors to promote formation of new vessels and remodeling
of collateral vessels. Since the procedure involved in this therapy usually only
consists of local injections of vectors, the process is minimally invasive, quick,
and simple to perform. However, since the first clinical evidence of the effects of
gene therapy with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was observed in patients
with peripheral artery disease, to date only two angiogenic therapy drugs have been
approved, one in Russia and another in Japan, which seem a very small number, in view
of the large volume of investment made in pre-clinical and clinical studies. After
all, can we conclude that angiogenic therapy is a reality?
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Won Han
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Departamento de Biofísica, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Centro Interdisciplinar de Terapia Gênica - CINTERGEN, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Carlos Alberto Vergani
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Centro Interdisciplinar de Terapia Gênica - CINTERGEN, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Paulo Eduardo Ocke Reis
- Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF, Departamento de Cirurgia Geral e Especializada, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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18
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Gu Y, Cui S, Wang Q, Liu C, Jin B, Guo W, Liu C, Chu T, Shu C, Zhang F, Han C, Liu Y. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Study of Hepatocyte Growth Factor in the Treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia. Mol Ther 2019; 27:2158-2165. [PMID: 31805256 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2019.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
NL003 is a plasmid engineered to simultaneously express two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor. This phase II study was performed to assess the clinical safety and efficacy of intramuscular injection of NL003 in critical limb ischemia (CLI) patients for 6 months. Two hundred patients (Rutherford scale 4-5) were randomly assigned: placebo (n = 50), low-dose NL003 (n = 50), middle-dose NL003 (n = 50), or high-dose NL003 (n = 50). The drug was administered in the affected limb of 197 patients on days 0, 14, and 28. No significant differences in the incidence of adverse events (AEs) or serious AEs were found among the groups. At 6 months, pain severity was significantly reduced in all NL003 groups, but not in the placebo group (p < 0.05). The proportion of patients with complete ulcer healing in the high-dose group was significantly higher than that of the placebo group (p = 0.0095). There were no statistically significant differences in transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2), ankle-brachial index (ABI), or toe-brachial index (TBI) value among the four groups throughout the study period. These results provide the first effective evidence of significant improvements in total healing of ulcers in treated legs, complete pain relief without analgesics, and safety for NL003 in patients with Rutherford stage 4-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongquan Gu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Shijun Cui
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuan Wu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Vascular Surgery Department, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changjian Liu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Bi Jin
- Vascular Surgery Department, Wuhan Union Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Vascular Surgery Department, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Changwei Liu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tongbin Chu
- Diabetic Foot Treatment Center, Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Chang Shu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Second Xiang Ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fuxian Zhang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Shi Ji Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chengquan Han
- R&D Center of Beijing Northland Biotech. Co., Ltd., China
| | - Yue Liu
- R&D Center of Beijing Northland Biotech. Co., Ltd., China
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Lee SH, Lee N, Kim S, Lee J, Choi W, Yu SS, Kim JH, Kim S. Intramuscular delivery of HGF-expressing recombinant AAV improves muscle integrity and alleviates neurological symptoms in the nerve crush and SOD1-G93A transgenic mouse models. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 517:452-457. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.07.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Lee SH, Kim S, Lee N, Lee J, Yu SS, Kim JH, Kim S. Intrathecal delivery of recombinant AAV1 encoding hepatocyte growth factor improves motor functions and protects neuromuscular system in the nerve crush and SOD1-G93A transgenic mouse models. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2019; 7:96. [PMID: 31189468 PMCID: PMC6563368 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-019-0737-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neuromuscular disease resulting from motor neuron degeneration that causes muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually respiratory failure. We investigated whether recombinant adeno-associated virus encoding human hepatocyte growth factor (rAAV-HGF) could generate beneficial effects in two mouse models with neuromuscular problems when intrathecally delivered to the subarachnoid space. We chose AAV serotype 1 (rAAV1) based on the expression levels and distribution of HGF protein in the lumbar spinal cord (LSC). After a single intrathecal (IT) injection of rAAV1-HGF, the protein level of HGF in the LSC peaked on day 14 and thereafter gradually decreased over the next 14 weeks. rAAV1-HGF was initially tested in the mouse nerve crush model. IT injection of rAAV1-HGF improved mouse hindlimb strength and rotarod performance, while histological analyses showed that the length of regenerated axons was increased and the structure of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) was restored. rAAV1-HGF was also evaluated in the SOD1-G93A transgenic (TG) mouse model. Again, rAAV1-HGF not only improved motor performance but also increased the survival rate. Moreover, the number and diameter of spinal motor neurons (SMNs) were increased, and the shape of the NMJs restored. Data from in vitro motor cortical culture experiments indicated that treatment with recombinant HGF protein (rHGF) increased the axon length of corticospinal motor neurons (CSMNs). When cultures were treated with an ERK inhibitor, the effects of HGF on axon elongation, protein aggregation, and oxidative stress were suppressed, indicating that ERK phosphorylation played an important role(s). Taken together, our results suggested that HGF might play an important role(s) in delaying disease progression in the SOD1-G93A TG mouse model by reducing oxidative stress through the control of ERK phosphorylation.
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Barć P, Antkiewicz M, Śliwa B, Baczyńska D, Witkiewicz W, Skóra JP. Treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia by pIRES/VEGF165/HGF Administration. Ann Vasc Surg 2019; 60:346-354. [PMID: 31200059 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prognosis of peripheral artery disease (PAD), especially critical limb ischemia (CLI), is very poor despite the development of endovascular therapy and bypass surgery. Many patients result in having leg amputation. We decided to investigate the safety and efficacy of plasmid of internal ribosome entry site/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) 165/hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) gene therapy (GT) in patients suffered from CLI. METHODS Administration of plasmid of internal ribosome entry site/VEGF165/HGF was performed in 12 limbs of 12 patients with rest pain and ischemic ulcers due to CLI. Plasmid was injected into the muscles of the ischemic limbs. The levels of VEGF in serum and the ankle-brachial index (ABI) were measured before and after treatment. RESULTS Mean (±SD) plasma levels of VEGF increased nonsignificantly from 258 ± 81 pg/L to 489 ± 96 pg/L (P > 0.05) 2 weeks after therapy, and the ABI improved significantly from 0.27 ± 0.20 to 0.50 ± 0.22 (P < 0.001) 3 months after therapy. Ischemic ulcers healed in 9 limbs. Amputation was performed in 3 patients because of advanced necrosis and wound infection. However, the level of amputations was lowered below knee in these cases. Complications were limited to transient leg edema in 3 patients and fever in 2 patients. CONCLUSIONS Intramuscular administration of plasmid of internal ribosome entry site/VEGF165/HGF is safe, feasible, and effective for patients with critical leg ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Barć
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Antkiewicz
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Barbara Śliwa
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dagmara Baczyńska
- Molecular Techniques Unit, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Wojciech Witkiewicz
- Regional Specialized Hospital in Wroclaw, Research and Development Center, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jan Paweł Skóra
- Department and Clinic of Vascular, General and Transplantation Surgery, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki Medical University Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
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Gaspar D, Peixoto R, De Pieri A, Striegl B, Zeugolis DI, Raghunath M. Local pharmacological induction of angiogenesis: Drugs for cells and cells as drugs. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 146:126-154. [PMID: 31226398 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The past decades have seen significant advances in pro-angiogenic strategies based on delivery of molecules and cells for conditions such as coronary artery disease, critical limb ischemia and stroke. Currently, three major strategies are evolving. Firstly, various pharmacological agents (growth factors, interleukins, small molecules, DNA/RNA) are locally applied at the ischemic region. Secondly, preparations of living cells with considerable bandwidth of tissue origin, differentiation state and preconditioning are delivered locally, rarely systemically. Thirdly, based on the notion, that cellular effects can be attributed mostly to factors secreted in situ, the cellular secretome (conditioned media, exosomes) has come into the spotlight. We review these three strategies to achieve (neo)angiogenesis in ischemic tissue with focus on the angiogenic mechanisms they tackle, such as transcription cascades, specific signalling steps and cellular gases. We also include cancer-therapy relevant lymphangiogenesis, and shall seek to explain why there are often conflicting data between in vitro and in vivo. The lion's share of data encompassing all three approaches comes from experimental animal work and we shall highlight common technical obstacles in the delivery of therapeutic molecules, cells, and secretome. This plethora of preclinical data contrasts with a dearth of clinical studies. A lack of adequate delivery vehicles and standardised assessment of clinical outcomes might play a role here, as well as regulatory, IP, and manufacturing constraints of candidate compounds; in addition, completed clinical trials have yet to reveal a successful and efficacious strategy. As the biology of angiogenesis is understood well enough for clinical purposes, it will be a matter of time to achieve success for well-stratified patients, and most probably with a combination of compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Gaspar
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Rita Peixoto
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Andrea De Pieri
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Proxy Biomedical Ltd., Coilleach, Spiddal, Galway, Ireland
| | - Britta Striegl
- Competence Centre Tissue Engineering for Drug Development (TEDD), Centre for Cell Biology & Tissue Engineering, Institute for Chemistry and Biotechnology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Michael Raghunath
- Competence Centre Tissue Engineering for Drug Development (TEDD), Centre for Cell Biology & Tissue Engineering, Institute for Chemistry and Biotechnology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Nho B, Lee J, Lee J, Ko KR, Lee SJ, Kim S. Effective control of neuropathic pain by transient expression of hepatocyte growth factor in a mouse chronic constriction injury model. FASEB J 2018; 32:5119-5131. [PMID: 29913557 PMCID: PMC6113864 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201800476r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a multifunctional protein that contains angiogenic and neurotrophic properties. In the current study, we investigated the analgesic effects of HGF by using a plasmid DNA that was designed to express 2 isoforms of human HGF—pCK-HGF-X7 (or VM202)—in a chronic constriction injury (CCI) –induced mouse neuropathic pain model. Intramuscular injection of pCK-HGF-X7 into proximal thigh muscle induced the expression of HGF in the muscle, sciatic nerve, and dorsal root ganglia (DRG). This gene transfer procedure significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia after CCI. Injury-induced expression of activating transcription factor 3, calcium channel subunit α2δ1, and CSF1 in the ipsilateral DRG neurons was markedly down-regulated in the pCK-HGF-X7–treated group, which suggested that HGF might exert its analgesic effects by inhibiting pain-mediating genes in the sensory neurons. In addition, suppressed CSF1 expression in DRG neurons by pCK-HGF-X7 treatment was accompanied by a noticeable suppression of the nerve injury–induced glial cell activation in the spinal cord dorsal horn. Taken together, our data show that pCK-HGF-X7 attenuates nerve injury–induced neuropathic pain by inhibiting pain-related factors in DRG neurons and subsequent spinal cord glial activation, which suggests its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of neuropathic pain.—Nho, B., Lee, J., Lee, J., Ko, K. R., Lee, S. J., Kim, S. Effective control of neuropathic pain by transient expression of hepatocyte growth factor in a mouse chronic constriction injury model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boram Nho
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Junghun Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.,ViroMed, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Junsub Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyeong Ryang Ko
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.,ViroMed, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Joong Lee
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sunyoung Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.,ViroMed, Seoul, South Korea
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24
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Wang LS, Wang H, Zhang QL, Yang ZJ, Kong FX, Wu CT. Hepatocyte Growth Factor Gene Therapy for Ischemic Diseases. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:413-423. [DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Sheng Wang
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Qing-Lin Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Jian Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, P.R. China
| | - Fan-Xuan Kong
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Chu-Tse Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Radiobiology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, P.R. China
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25
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Hu C, Lu Y, Cheng X, Cui Y, Wu Z, Zhang Q. Gene therapy for neuropathic pain induced by spared nerve injury with naked plasmid encoding hepatocyte growth factor. J Gene Med 2017; 19. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.2994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chunsheng Hu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
- International Academy of Targeted Therapeutics and Innovation; Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences; Chongqing China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering; Beijing University of Technology; Beijing China
| | - Yuxin Lu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Xiaochen Cheng
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Yufang Cui
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
| | - Zuze Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering; Beijing University of Technology; Beijing China
| | - Qinglin Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; Beijing China
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Fujita Y, Kawamoto A. Stem cell-based peripheral vascular regeneration. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 120:25-40. [PMID: 28912015 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic critical limb ischemia (CLI) represents an end-stage manifestation of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). CLI patients are at very high risk of amputation and cardiovascular complications, leading to severe morbidity and mortality. Because many patients with CLI are ineligible for conventional revascularization procedures, it is urgently needed to explore alternative strategies to improve blood supply in the ischemic tissue. Although researchers initially focused on gene/protein therapy using proangiogenic growth factors/cytokines, recent discovery of somatic stem/progenitor cells including bone marrow (BM)-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has drastically developed the field of therapeutic angiogenesis for CLI. Overall, early phase clinical trials demonstrated that stem/progenitor cell therapies may be safe, feasible and potentially effective. However, only few late-phase clinical trials have been conducted. This review provides an overview of the preclinical and clinical reports to demonstrate the usefulness and the current limitations of the cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuyuki Fujita
- Division of Vascular Regeneration, Unit of Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan; Translational Research Informatics Center, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Kawamoto
- Division of Vascular Regeneration, Unit of Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan; Translational Research Informatics Center, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Japan.
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27
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Deev R, Plaksa I, Bozo I, Isaev A. Results of an International Postmarketing Surveillance Study of pl-VEGF165 Safety and Efficacy in 210 Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs 2017; 17:235-242. [PMID: 28050885 PMCID: PMC5435773 DOI: 10.1007/s40256-016-0210-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The effective treatment of chronic lower limb ischemia is one of the most challenging issues confronting vascular surgeons. Current pharmacological therapies play an auxiliary role and cannot prevent disease progression, and new treatment methods are needed. pl-VEGF165, a gene therapy drug, was approved in Russia for the treatment of atherosclerotic peripheral arterial disease (PAD) after clinical studies in 2011. The study drug is an original gene construction in which pl-VEGF165 1.2 mg is the active substance. OBJECTIVE This postmarketing surveillance study was undertaken to evaluate the safety (identification of uncommon side effects) and efficacy of gene therapy in patients in routine clinical practice. METHODS In total, 210 patients with stage II-III chronic limb ischemia (according to the Fontaine classification modified by AV Pokrovsky) in 33 healthcare facilities in Russia and the Ukraine were enrolled in the study. The control group (n = 60) received conservative therapy without prostaglandins and prostacyclins, and the treatment group (n = 150) received treatment with pl-VEGF165 as two intramuscular injections for a total dose of 2.4 mg. Pain-free walking distance (PWD) (the primary efficacy criterion for Fontaine stages II-III), blood flow linear velocity (BFLV), and ankle-brachial index (ABI) were monitored for 6 months. The safety of pl-VEGF165 gene transfer in terms of the trial protocol was initially evaluated 6 months after the start of the study; adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs) were recorded during both routine visits and unscheduled requests for medical care. RESULTS Overall, PWD increased by 177%, from 100.3 ± 6.9 to 277.1 ± 16.2 m (p = 0.0001), in the treatment group, whereas the mean value was unchanged in the control group (p = 0.218). Both BFLV and ABI values increased by 24% (p = 0.0001) in the treatment group but decreased in the control group. The greatest therapeutic effect was observed for stage III disease: PWD increased by 683% (p = 0.0001). No angiogenic therapy-related AEs or side effects were recorded, and target limb salvage was 96 and 97% in the treatment and control groups, respectively. The results obtained in this study are not significantly different from those observed in the phase IIb/III registration clinical study completed in 2011. CONCLUSION pl-VEGF165 intramuscular gene transfer is an effective treatment for moderate to severe claudication due to chronic lower limb ischemia in routine clinical practice. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02369809.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Deev
- Human Stem Cells Institute, Bld. 2, 3 Gubkina Str., P.O. box 373, Moscow, 119333, Russia
- Ryazan State I.P. Pavlov Medical University, Ryazan, Russia
| | - Igor Plaksa
- Human Stem Cells Institute, Bld. 2, 3 Gubkina Str., P.O. box 373, Moscow, 119333, Russia.
- Pavlov First Saint-Petersburg State Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Ilia Bozo
- Human Stem Cells Institute, Bld. 2, 3 Gubkina Str., P.O. box 373, Moscow, 119333, Russia
- Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - Artur Isaev
- Human Stem Cells Institute, Bld. 2, 3 Gubkina Str., P.O. box 373, Moscow, 119333, Russia
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Lakshmanan R, Ukani G, Rishi MT, Maulik N. Trimodal rescue of hind limb ischemia with growth factors, cells, and nanocarriers: fundamentals to clinical trials. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2017; 95:1125-1140. [PMID: 28407473 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2016-0713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral artery disease is a severe medical condition commonly characterized by critical or acute limb ischemia. Gradual accumulation of thrombotic plaques in peripheral arteries of the lower limb may lead to intermittent claudication or ischemia in muscle tissue. Ischemic muscle tissue with lesions may become infected, resulting in a non-healing wound. Stable progression of the non-healing wound associated with severe ischemia might lead to functional deterioration of the limb, which, depending on the severity, can result in amputation. Immediate rescue of ischemic muscles through revascularization strategies is considered the gold standard to treat critical limb ischemia. Growth factors offer multiple levels of protection in revascularization of ischemic tissue. In this review, the basic mechanism through which growth factors exert their beneficial properties to rescue the ischemic limb is extensively discussed. Moreover, clinical trials based on growth factor and stem cell therapy to treat critical limb ischemia are considered. The clinical utility of stem cell therapy for the treatment of limb ischemia is explained and recent advances in nanocarrier technology for selective growth factor and stem cell supplementation are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Lakshmanan
- Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.,Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Gopi Ukani
- Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.,Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Muhammad Tipu Rishi
- Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.,Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Nilanjana Maulik
- Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.,Molecular Cardiology and Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
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29
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Sufit RL, Ajroud-Driss S, Casey P, Kessler JA. Open label study to assess the safety of VM202 in subjects with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2017; 18:269-278. [PMID: 28166654 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2016.1259334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess safety and define efficacy measures of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) DNA plasmid, VM202, administered by intramuscular injections in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS Eighteen participants were treated with VM202 administered in divided doses by injections alternating between the upper and lower limbs on d 0, 7, 14, and 21. Subjects were followed for nine months to evaluate possible adverse events. Functional outcome was assessed using the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) as well as by serially measuring muscle strength, muscle circumference, and forced vital capacity. RESULTS Seventeen of 18 participants completed the study. All participants tolerated 64 mg of VM202 well with no serious adverse events (SAE) related to the drug. Twelve participants reported 26 mild or moderate injection site reactions. Three participants experienced five SAEs unrelated to VM202. One subject died from respiratory insufficiency secondary to ALS progression. CONCLUSIONS Multiple intramuscular injection of VM202 into the limbs appears safe in ALS subjects. Future trials with retreatment after three months will determine whether VM202 treatment alters the long-term course of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Sufit
- a Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology , Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Senda Ajroud-Driss
- a Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology , Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Patricia Casey
- a Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology , Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - John A Kessler
- a Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology , Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
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30
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Safety and efficacy of plasmid DNA expressing two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor in patients with critical limb ischemia. Gene Ther 2015; 23:306-12. [DOI: 10.1038/gt.2015.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Zhu K, Wu M, Lai H, Guo C, Li J, Wang Y, Chen Y, Wang C, Shi J. Nanoparticle-enhanced generation of gene-transfected mesenchymal stem cells for in vivo cardiac repair. Biomaterials 2015; 74:188-99. [PMID: 26461114 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Transplantation of gene-transfected bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) is a promising strategy for ischemic myocardium repair, but current therapeutic strategy suffers from high toxicity and inefficient gene transfection in primary BMMSCs. Here we designed and synthesized molecularly organic-inorganic hybrid hollow mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (HMONs) based on nano-synthetic chemistry, which are featured with concurrent large pore size over 20 nm, small particulate size, hollow cavity and high dispersity for gene transfection in BMMSCs and subsequent in vivo cardiac repair. To efficiently create the therapeutic gene-transfected stem-cell lines, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) gene was applied to transfect BMMSCs via biocompatible surface-engineered HMONs as a high-performance gene-delivery nanosystem. On the rat model of myocardial infarction, transplantation of HGF gene-transfected BMMSCs enables the largely decreased apoptotic cardiomyocytes, reduced infarct scar size, relieved interstitial fibrosis, and increased angiogenesis in myocardium. The resultant cardiac repair further promotes the significant improvement of heart function. Therefore, the fabricated organic-inorganic hybrid HMONs with large pore size represent a generalizable strategy and platform for gene transfection in BMMSCs and further regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhu
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Meiying Wu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, PR China
| | - Hao Lai
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Changfa Guo
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Yulin Wang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, PR China.
| | - Chunsheng Wang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Shanghai 200032, PR China.
| | - Jianlin Shi
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, PR China.
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32
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Nagahara Y, Shimazawa M, Tanaka H, Ono Y, Noda Y, Ohuchi K, Tsuruma K, Katsuno M, Sobue G, Hara H. Glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B ameliorates skeletal muscle lesions in a SOD1G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurosci Res 2015; 93:1552-66. [PMID: 26140698 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of motor neurons and subsequent muscular atrophy. The quality of life of patients with ALS is significantly improved by ameliorating muscular symptoms. We previously reported that glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB; osteoactivin) might serve as a target for ALS therapy. In the present study, superoxide dismutase 1/glycine residue 93 changed to alanine (SOD1(G93A) ) transgenic mice were used as a model of ALS. Expression of the C-terminal fragment of GPNMB was increased in the skeletal muscles of SOD1(G93A) mice and patients with sporadic ALS. SOD1(G93A) /GPNMB transgenic mice were generated to determine whether GPNMB expression ameliorates muscular symptoms. The weight and cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius muscle, number and cross-sectional area of myofibers, and denervation of neuromuscular junctions were ameliorated in SOD1(G93A) /GPNMB vs. SOD1(G93A) mice. Furthermore, direct injection of a GPNMB expression plasmid into the gastrocnemius muscle of SOD1(G93A) mice increased the numbers of myofibers and prevented myofiber atrophy. These findings suggest that GPNMB directly affects skeletal muscle and prevents muscular pathology in SOD1(G93A) mice and may therefore serve as a target for therapy of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Nagahara
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Shimazawa
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Tanaka
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yoko Ono
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Noda
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Kazuki Ohuchi
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tsuruma
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Masahisa Katsuno
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Gen Sobue
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hideaki Hara
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
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Cui S, Guo L, Li X, Gu Y, Fu J, Dong L, Song H, Chen X, Lu Y, Hu C, Xiao F, Zhu D, Wu Z, Zhang Q. Clinical Safety and Preliminary Efficacy of Plasmid pUDK-HGF Expressing Human Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) in Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2015; 50:494-501. [PMID: 26122834 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the most severe form of peripheral arterial disease and a major unmet public health care need. This phase I clinical study was performed to assess the safety and preliminary efficacy of naked plasmid DNA (pUDK-HGF) expressing human hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). DESIGN Twenty-one patients with CLI were enrolled and randomly divided into four dose groups (4-16 mg) to receive local injection of pUDK-HGF into ischemic calf and/or thigh muscles twice on days 1 and 15. Safety, including adverse events and physiological parameters, and preliminary efficacy, including pain severity score (VAS), ulcer size, transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2), and ankle brachial index (ABI), were evaluated throughout a 3 month follow up period. RESULTS All doses of pUDK-HGF were well tolerated by the patients. None of the adverse effects was considered to be related to pUDK-HGF injection. Two significant clinical results were observed after pUDK-HGF administration. The mean VAS value of all patients decreased from 4.52 at baseline to 0.30 (p < .01), and pain had disappeared in 14 out of 17 evaluable patients by day 91. Two of four ulcers had completely healed, with the other two patients having more than 25% ulcer size reduction in the long axis diameter. Of five patients with gangrene, one gangrenous wound had healed completely and two patients showed marked size reduction by day 91. The mean hemodynamic parameters (ABI, TcPO2) were also improved. CONCLUSION Intramuscular injection of pUDK-HGF is safe, and may provide symptomatic relief for CLI patients. A larger, randomized, double blinded phase II trial will provide more information on safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Cui
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - L Guo
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - X Li
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Y Gu
- Vascular Surgery Department of Xuan Wu Hospital, Institute of Vascular Surgery, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - J Fu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - L Dong
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - H Song
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - X Chen
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Y Lu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - C Hu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - F Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - D Zhu
- Humanwell Healthcare Group Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Z Wu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Q Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.
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A review of the pathophysiology and potential biomarkers for peripheral artery disease. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:11294-322. [PMID: 25993296 PMCID: PMC4463701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160511294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is due to the blockage of the arteries supplying blood to the lower limbs usually secondary to atherosclerosis. The most severe clinical manifestation of PAD is critical limb ischemia (CLI), which is associated with a risk of limb loss and mortality due to cardiovascular events. Currently CLI is mainly treated by surgical or endovascular revascularization, with few other treatments in routine clinical practice. There are a number of problems with current PAD management strategies, such as the difficulty in selecting the appropriate treatments for individual patients. Many patients undergo repeated attempts at revascularization surgery, but ultimately require an amputation. There is great interest in developing new methods to identify patients who are unlikely to benefit from revascularization and to improve management of patients unsuitable for surgery. Circulating biomarkers that predict the progression of PAD and the response to therapies could assist in the management of patients. This review provides an overview of the pathophysiology of PAD and examines the association between circulating biomarkers and PAD presence, severity and prognosis. While some currently identified circulating markers show promise, further larger studies focused on the clinical value of the biomarkers over existing risk predictors are needed.
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35
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Cooke JP, Losordo DW. Modulating the vascular response to limb ischemia: angiogenic and cell therapies. Circ Res 2015; 116:1561-78. [PMID: 25908729 PMCID: PMC4869986 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.115.303565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The age-adjusted prevalence of peripheral arterial disease in the US population has been estimated to approach 12%. The clinical consequences of occlusive peripheral arterial disease include pain on walking (claudication), pain at rest, and loss of tissue integrity in the distal limbs; the latter may ultimately lead to amputation of a portion of the lower extremity. Surgical bypass techniques and percutaneous catheter-based interventions may successfully reperfuse the limbs of certain patients with peripheral arterial disease. In many patients, however, the anatomic extent and distribution of arterial occlusion is too severe to permit relief of pain and healing of ischemic ulcers. No effective medical therapy is available for the treatment of such patients, for many of whom amputation represents the only hope for alleviation of symptoms. The ultimate failure of medical treatment and procedural revascularization in significant numbers of patients has led to attempts to develop alternative therapies for ischemic disease. These strategies include administration of angiogenic cytokines, either as recombinant protein or as gene therapy, and more recently, to investigations of stem/progenitor cell therapy. The purpose of this review is to provide an outline of the preclinical basis for angiogenic and stem cell therapies, review the clinical research that has been done, summarize the lessons learned, identify gaps in knowledge, and suggest a course toward successfully addressing an unmet medical need in a large and growing patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- John P Cooke
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, TX (J.P.C.); and NeoStem Inc, New York, NY (D.W.L.).
| | - Douglas W Losordo
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, TX (J.P.C.); and NeoStem Inc, New York, NY (D.W.L.).
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Song KM, Choi MJ, Kwon MH, Ghatak K, Park SH, Ryu DS, Ryu JK, Suh JK. Optimizing in vivo gene transfer into mouse corpus cavernosum by use of surface electroporation. Korean J Urol 2015; 56:197-204. [PMID: 25763123 PMCID: PMC4355430 DOI: 10.4111/kju.2015.56.3.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Electroporation is known to enhance the efficiency of gene transfer through a transient increase in cell membrane permeability. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal conditions for in vivo electroporation-mediated gene delivery into mouse corpus cavernosum. Materials and Methods Diabetes was induced in C57BL/6 mice by intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin. After intracavernous injection of pCMV-Luc (100 µg/40 µL), different electroporation settings (5-50 V, 8-16 pulses with a duration of 40-100 ms) were applied to the penis to establish the optimal conditions for electroporation. Gene expression was evaluated by luciferase assay. We also assessed the undesired consequences of electroporation by visual inspection and hematoxylin-eosin staining of penile tissue. Results Electroporation profoundly induced gene expression in the corpus cavernosum tissue of normal mice in a voltage-dependent manner. We observed electrical burn scars in the penis of normal mice who received electroporation with eight 40-ms pulses at a voltage of 50 V and sixteen 40-ms pulses, eight 100-ms pulses, and sixteen 100-ms pulses at a voltage of 30 V. No detectable burn scars were noted in normal mice stimulated with eight 40-ms pulses at a voltage of 30 V. Electroporation also significantly induced gene expression in diabetic mice stimulated with 40-ms pulse at a voltage of 30 V without injury to the penis. Conclusions We have established the optimal electroporation conditions for maximizing gene transfer into the corpus cavernosum of mice while avoiding damage to the erectile tissue. The electroporation-mediated gene delivery technique will be a valuable tool for gene therapy in the field of erectile dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Moon Song
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Min Ji Choi
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Mi-Hye Kwon
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Kalyan Ghatak
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Soo-Hwan Park
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Dong-Soo Ryu
- Department of Urology, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Changwon, Korea
| | - Ji-Kan Ryu
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jun-Kyu Suh
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
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Deev RV, Bozo IY, Mzhavanadze ND, Voronov DA, Gavrilenko AV, Chervyakov YV, Staroverov IN, Kalinin RE, Shvalb PG, Isaev AA. pCMV-vegf165 Intramuscular Gene Transfer is an Effective Method of Treatment for Patients With Chronic Lower Limb Ischemia. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2015; 20:473-82. [PMID: 25770117 DOI: 10.1177/1074248415574336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Effective treatment of chronic lower limb ischemia is one of the most challenging issues confronting vascular surgeons. There are a number of choices available to the vascular surgeon. Open or endovascular revascularization is the treatment of choice when applicable. Current pharmacological therapies play an auxiliary role and cannot prevent disease progression. Therefore, new methods of treatment are needed. We conducted a phase 2b/3 multicenter randomized controlled clinical trial of the intramuscular transfer of a plasmid DNA encoding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) 165 with cytomegalovirus promotor (CMV) in patients with atherosclerotic lower limb ischemia. A total of 100 patients were enrolled in the study, that is, 75 patients were randomized into the test group and received 2 intramuscular injections of 1.2 mg of pCMV-vegf165, 14 days apart together with standard pharmacological treatment. In all, 25 patients were randomized into the control group and received standard treatment only. The following end points were evaluated within the first 6 months of the study and during a 1.5-year additional follow-up period: pain-free walking distance (PWD), ankle-brachial index (ABI), and blood flow velocity (BFV). The pCMV-vegf165 therapy appeared to be significantly more effective than standard treatment. The PWD increased in the test group by 110.4%, 167.2%, and 190.8% at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after treatment, respectively. The pCMV-vegf165 intramuscular transfer caused a statistically significant increase in ABI and BFV. There were no positive results in the control group. Thus, pCMV-vegf165 intramuscular gene transfer is an effective method of treatment of moderate to severe claudication due to chronic lower limb ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman V Deev
- OJSC "Human Stem Cells Institute", Moscow, Russia Department of Morphology and General Pathology, Kazan (Volga region) Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Ilia Y Bozo
- OJSC "Human Stem Cells Institute", Moscow, Russia Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, A.I. Burnazyan Medical Biophysical Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nina D Mzhavanadze
- Department of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, Ryazan State I.P. Pavlov Medical University, Ryazan, Russia
| | - Dmitriy A Voronov
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Russian National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aleksandr V Gavrilenko
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Russian National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yuriy V Chervyakov
- Department of Surgery, Yaroslavl State Medical Academy, Yaroslavl, Russia
| | - Ilia N Staroverov
- Department of Surgery, Yaroslavl State Medical Academy, Yaroslavl, Russia
| | - Roman E Kalinin
- Department of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, Ryazan State I.P. Pavlov Medical University, Ryazan, Russia
| | - Pavel G Shvalb
- Department of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, Ryazan State I.P. Pavlov Medical University, Ryazan, Russia Deceased
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Kessler JA, Smith AG, Cha BS, Choi SH, Wymer J, Shaibani A, Ajroud-Driss S, Vinik A. Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of HGF gene therapy in diabetic neuropathy. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2015; 2:465-78. [PMID: 26000320 PMCID: PMC4435702 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a plasmid (VM202) containing two human hepatocyte growth factor isoforms given by intramuscular injections in patients with painful diabetic neuropathy. METHODS In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, patients were randomized to receive injections of 8 or 16 mg VM202 per leg or placebo. Divided doses were administered on Day 0 and Day 14. The prospective primary outcome was change in the mean pain score measured by a 7 day pain diary. Secondary outcomes included a responder analysis, quality of life and pain measures, and intraepidermal nerve fiber density. RESULTS There were no significant adverse events attributable to VM202. Eighty-four patients completed the study. Patients receiving 8 mg VM202 per leg improved the most in all efficacy measures including a significant (P = 0.03) reduction at 3 months in the mean pain score and continued but not statistically significant reductions in pain at 6 and 9 months. Of these patients, 48.4% experienced a ≥50% reduction in pain compared to 17.6% of placebo patients. There were also significant improvements in the brief pain inventory for patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and the questionnaire portion of the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument. Patients not on pregabalin or gabapentin had the largest reductions in pain. INTERPRETATION VM202 was safe, well tolerated and effective indicating the feasibility of a nonviral gene therapy approach to painful diabetic neuropathy. Two days of treatment were sufficient to provide symptomatic relief with improvement in quality of life for 3 months. VM202 may be particularly beneficial for patients not taking gabapentin or pregabalin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bong-Soo Cha
- Yonsei University College of Medicine Severence Hospital Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Hee Choi
- Seoul National University Bundang Hospital Seoul, South Korea
| | | | | | | | - Aaron Vinik
- Eastern Virginia Medical School Norfolk, Virginia
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Mungunsukh O, McCart EA, Day RM. Hepatocyte Growth Factor Isoforms in Tissue Repair, Cancer, and Fibrotic Remodeling. Biomedicines 2014; 2:301-326. [PMID: 28548073 PMCID: PMC5344272 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines2040301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), also known as scatter factor (SF), is a pleotropic factor required for normal organ development during embryogenesis. In the adult, basal expression of HGF maintains tissue homeostasis and is up-regulated in response to tissue injury. HGF expression is necessary for the proliferation, migration, and survival of epithelial and endothelial cells involved in tissue repair in a variety of organs, including heart, lung, kidney, liver, brain, and skin. The administration of full length HGF, either as a protein or using exogenous expression methodologies, increases tissue repair in animal models of tissue injury and increases angiogenesis. Full length HGF is comprised of an N-terminal hairpin turn, four kringle domains, and a serine protease-like domain. Several naturally occurring alternatively spliced isoforms of HGF were also identified. The NK1 variant contains the N-terminal hairpin and the first kringle domain, and the NK2 variant extends through the second kringle domain. These alternatively spliced forms of HGF activate the same receptor, MET, but they differ from the full length protein in their cellular activities and their biological functions. Here, we review the species-specific expression of the HGF isoforms, their regulation, the signal transduction pathways they activate, and their biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ognoon Mungunsukh
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814-4799, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A McCart
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814-4799, USA.
| | - Regina M Day
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814-4799, USA.
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Suda H, Murakami A, Kaga T, Tomioka H, Morishita R. Beperminogene perplasmid for the treatment of critical limb ischemia. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2014; 12:1145-56. [DOI: 10.1586/14779072.2014.955850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Shimamura M, Nakagami H, Taniyama Y, Morishita R. Gene therapy for peripheral arterial disease. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2014; 14:1175-84. [PMID: 24766232 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2014.912272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gene therapy has emerged as a novel therapy to promote angiogenesis in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) caused by peripheral artery disease. Researchers working in this area have focused on pro-angiogenic factors, such as VEGF, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). Based on the elaborate studies and favorable results of basic research using naked plasmid DNA (pDNA) encoding these growth factors, some clinical Phase I and Phase II trials have been performed. The results of these studies demonstrate the safety of these approaches and their potential for symptomatic improvement in CLI patients. However, the Phase III clinical trials have so far been limited to HGF gene therapy. Because one pitfall of the Phase III trials has been the limited transgene expression achieved using naked pDNA alone, the development of more efficient gene transfer systems, such as ultrasound microbubbles and the needleless injector, as well as the addition of other genes will make these novel therapies more effective and ease the symptoms of CLI. AREAS COVERED This study reviews the previously published basic research and clinical trials that have studied VEGF, FGF and HGF gene therapies for the treatment of CLI. Adjunctive therapies, such as the addition of prostacyclin synthase genes and the development of more efficient gene transfer techniques for pDNA, are also reviewed. EXPERT OPINION To date, clinical studies have demonstrated the safety of gene therapy in limb ischemia but the effectiveness of this treatment has not been determined. Larger clinical studies, as well as the development of more effective gene therapy, are needed to achieve and confirm beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munehisa Shimamura
- Osaka University, Kanazawa University and Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, United Graduate School of Child Development, Division of Vascular Medicine and Epigenetics, Department of Child Development , Suita , Japan
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Silvestre JS, Smadja DM, Lévy BI. Postischemic revascularization: from cellular and molecular mechanisms to clinical applications. Physiol Rev 2013; 93:1743-802. [PMID: 24137021 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00006.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
After the onset of ischemia, cardiac or skeletal muscle undergoes a continuum of molecular, cellular, and extracellular responses that determine the function and the remodeling of the ischemic tissue. Hypoxia-related pathways, immunoinflammatory balance, circulating or local vascular progenitor cells, as well as changes in hemodynamical forces within vascular wall trigger all the processes regulating vascular homeostasis, including vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, arteriogenesis, and collateral growth, which act in concert to establish a functional vascular network in ischemic zones. In patients with ischemic diseases, most of the cellular (mainly those involving bone marrow-derived cells and local stem/progenitor cells) and molecular mechanisms involved in the activation of vessel growth and vascular remodeling are markedly impaired by the deleterious microenvironment characterized by fibrosis, inflammation, hypoperfusion, and inhibition of endogenous angiogenic and regenerative programs. Furthermore, cardiovascular risk factors, including diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, diabetes, and aging, constitute a deleterious macroenvironment that participates to the abrogation of postischemic revascularization and tissue regeneration observed in these patient populations. Thus stimulation of vessel growth and/or remodeling has emerged as a new therapeutic option in patients with ischemic diseases. Many strategies of therapeutic revascularization, based on the administration of growth factors or stem/progenitor cells from diverse sources, have been proposed and are currently tested in patients with peripheral arterial disease or cardiac diseases. This review provides an overview from our current knowledge regarding molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in postischemic revascularization, as well as advances in the clinical application of such strategies of therapeutic revascularization.
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Shimamura M, Nakagami H, Koriyama H, Morishita R. Gene therapy and cell-based therapies for therapeutic angiogenesis in peripheral artery disease. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:186215. [PMID: 24294599 PMCID: PMC3835886 DOI: 10.1155/2013/186215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy and cell-based therapy have emerged as novel therapies to promote therapeutic angiogenesis in critical limb ischemia (CLI) caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD). Although researchers initially focused on gene therapy using proangiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), and hepatocyte growth factors (HGF), cell therapy using bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs), mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs), G-CSF-mobilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (M-PBMNCs), and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) have also been extensively studied. Based on the elaborate studies and favorable results of basic research, some clinical phase I/II trials have been performed, and the results demonstrate the safety of these approaches and their potential for symptomatic improvement in CLI. However, the phase 3 clinical trials have thus far been limited to gene therapy using the HGF gene. Further studies using well-designed larger placebo-controlled and long-term randomized control trials (RCTs) will clarify the effectiveness of gene therapy and cell-based therapy for the treatment of CLI. Furthermore, the development of efficient gene transfer systems and effective methods for keeping transplanted cells healthy will make these novel therapies more effective and ease the symptoms of CLI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munehisa Shimamura
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Epigenetics, Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, and Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0817, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hironori Nakagami
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Epigenetics, Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, and Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0817, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Koriyama
- Division of Vascular Medicine and Epigenetics, Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, and Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0817, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Morishita
- Department of Clinical Gene Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
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Abstract
Critical limb ischaemia (CLI) is a severe form of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). CLI often causes disabling symptoms of pain and can lead to loss of the affected limb. It is also associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke and death from cardiovascular disease. The aims of management in patients with CLI are to relieve ischaemic pain, heal ulcers, prevent limb loss, improve function and quality of life and prolong survival. Here, current evidence regarding the medical management of CLI is reviewed. Cardiovascular risk factors should be assessed in all patients with CLI; smoking cessation and treatment of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and diabetes all reduce the mortality rate in those with PAD. Antiplatelet agents (either aspirin or clopidogrel) are recommended to reduce both the incidence of cardiovascular events and risk of arterial occlusion. By contrast, routine use of anticoagulation (either warfarin or heparin) is not recommended. Treatment of the limbs themselves is often more challenging. Prostanoids may have some efficacy for treating rest pain and for ulcer healing, and iloprost shows favourable results in reducing the risk of major amputations, but long-term follow-up data regarding disease progression are lacking. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of naftidrofuryl or cilostazol, and pentoxifylline is not beneficial. Furthermore, there is no evidence of proven benefit of hyperbaric oxygen. A number of angiogenic growth factors have been studied in Phase I studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). They appear to be safe, but efficacy results have been mixed. Treatment with stem cells also shows some potential from early trials, but further larger RCTs are needed to demonstrate clear benefit. Thrombolysis may be an alternative for patients who develop acute limb ischaemia and are unsuitable for surgical intervention. However, newer endovascular techniques are likely to have a greater role in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Lambert
- Division of Cardiovascular and Diabetes Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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Abstract
Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is a severe form of peripheral artery disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. The primary therapeutic goals in treating CLI are to reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular events, relieve ischemic pain, heal ulcers, prevent major amputation, and improve quality of life (QoL) and survival. These goals may be achieved by medical therapy, endovascular intervention, open surgery, or amputation and require a multidisciplinary approach including pain management, wound care, risk factors reduction, and treatment of comorbidities. No-option patients are potential candidates for the novel angiogenic therapies. The application of genetic, molecular, and cellular-based modalities, the so-called therapeutic angiogenesis, in the treatment of arterial obstructive diseases has not shown consistent efficacy. This article summarizes the current status related to the management of patients with CLI and discusses the current findings of the emerging modalities for therapeutic angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey O. Ouma
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, Vascular Medicine Section, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Barak Zafrir
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Ruth and Bruce Rappaport School of Medicine, Technion-IIT, Haifa, Israel
| | - Emile R. Mohler
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, Vascular Medicine Section, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Moshe Y. Flugelman
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Ruth and Bruce Rappaport School of Medicine, Technion-IIT, Haifa, Israel
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Phase 1/2 open-label dose-escalation study of plasmid DNA expressing two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor in patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Mol Ther 2013; 21:1279-86. [PMID: 23609019 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2013.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of intramuscular injections of plasmid DNA (VM202) expressing two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in subjects with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN). Twelve patients in three cohorts (4, 8, and 16 mg) received two sets of VM202 injections separated by two weeks. Safety and tolerability were evaluated and the visual analog scale (VAS), the short form McGill questionnaire (SF-MPQ), and the brief pain inventory for patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (BPI-DPN) measured pain level throughout 12 months after treatment. No serious adverse events (AEs) were observed. The mean VAS was reduced from baseline by 47.2% (P = 0.002) at 6 months and by 44.1% (P = 0.005) at 12 months after treatment. The VAS scores for the 4, 8, and 16 mg dose cohorts at 6 months follow-up decreased in a dose-responsive manner, by 21% (P = 0.971), 53% (P = 0.014), and 62% (P = 0.001), respectively. The results with the BPI-DPN and SF-MPQ showed patterns similar to the VAS scores. In conclusion, VM202 treatment appeared to be safe, well tolerated, and sufficient to provide long term symptomatic relief and improvement in the quality of life in patients with PDPN.
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Kim JS, Hwang HY, Cho KR, Park EA, Lee W, Paeng JC, Lee DS, Kim HK, Sohn DW, Kim KB. Intramyocardial transfer of hepatocyte growth factor as an adjunct to CABG: phase I clinical study. Gene Ther 2012; 20:717-22. [PMID: 23151518 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2012.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2012] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 10/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this phase I clinical trial was to evaluate the safety, tolerability and potential efficacy of VM202, naked DNA expressing two isoforms of hepatocyte growth factor, as an adjunct therapy to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). Nine patients were assigned to receive increasing doses (0.5 to 2.0 mg) of VM202 injected into the right coronary artery (RCA) territory following completion of CABG for the left coronary artery territory. Patients were evaluated for safety and tolerability, and changes in myocardial functions were monitored via echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and myocardial single photon emission computed tomography throughout 6-month follow-up period. No serious complication related to VM202 was observed throughout the 6-month follow-up period. Global myocardial functions (wall motion score index, P=0.0084; stress perfusion, P=0.0002) improved during the follow-up period. In the RCA region, there was an increase in the stress perfusion (baseline vs 3-month, P=0.024; baseline vs 6-month, P=0.024) and also in the wall thickness of the diastolic and systolic phases. Intramyocardial injection of VM202 can be safely used in IHD patients with the tolerable dose of 2.0 mg. In addition, VM202 might appear to have improved regional myocardial perfusion and wall thickness in the injected region.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Kim
- Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi, Korea
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Growth factors released from gelatin hydrogel microspheres increase new neurons in the adult mouse brain. Stem Cells Int 2012; 2012:915160. [PMID: 23093979 PMCID: PMC3474987 DOI: 10.1155/2012/915160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that new neurons are continuously generated by endogenous neural stem cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the adult mammalian brain. Some of these new neurons migrate to injured brain tissues and differentiate into mature neurons, suggesting that such new neurons may be able to replace neurons lost to degenerative disease or injury and improve or repair neurological deficits. Here, we tested whether delivering growth factors via gelatin hydrogel microspheres would support neurogenesis in the SVZ. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)-containing microspheres increased the number of new neurons in the SVZ. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-containing microspheres increased the number of new neurons migrating from the SVZ towards the injured striatum in a stroke model in mouse. These results suggest that the strategy of using gelatin hydrogel microspheres to achieve the sustained release of growth factors holds promise for the clinical regeneration of damaged brain tissues from endogenous neural stem cells in the adult SVZ.
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Makarevich P, Tsokolaeva Z, Shevelev A, Rybalkin I, Shevchenko E, Beloglazova I, Vlasik T, Tkachuk V, Parfyonova Y. Combined transfer of human VEGF165 and HGF genes renders potent angiogenic effect in ischemic skeletal muscle. PLoS One 2012; 7:e38776. [PMID: 22719942 PMCID: PMC3374822 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0038776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased interest in development of combined gene therapy emerges from results of recent clinical trials that indicate good safety yet unexpected low efficacy of "single-gene" administration. Multiple studies showed that vascular endothelial growth factor 165 aminoacid form (VEGF165) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) can be used for induction of angiogenesis in ischemic myocardium and skeletal muscle. Gene transfer system composed of a novel cytomegalovirus-based (CMV) plasmid vector and codon-optimized human VEGF165 and HGF genes combined with intramuscular low-voltage electroporation was developed and tested in vitro and in vivo. Studies in HEK293T cell culture, murine skeletal muscle explants and ELISA of tissue homogenates showed efficacy of constructed plasmids. Functional activity of angiogenic proteins secreted by HEK293T after transfection by induction of tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) culture. HUVEC cells were used for in vitro experiments to assay the putative signaling pathways to be responsible for combined administration effect one of which could be the ERK1/2 pathway. In vivo tests of VEGF165 and HGF genes co-transfer were conceived in mouse model of hind limb ischemia. Intramuscular administration of plasmid encoding either VEGF165 or HGF gene resulted in increased perfusion compared to empty vector administration. Mice injected with a mixture of two plasmids (VEGF165+HGF) showed significant increase in perfusion compared to single plasmid injection. These findings were supported by increased CD31+ capillary and SMA+ vessel density in animals that received combined VEGF165 and HGF gene therapy compared to single gene therapy. Results of the study suggest that co-transfer of VEGF and HGF genes renders a robust angiogenic effect in ischemic skeletal muscle and may present interest as a potential therapeutic combination for treatment of ischemic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Makarevich
- Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Russian Cardiology Research and Production Complex, Moscow, Russia.
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Nitta N, Nitta-Seko A, Sonoda A, Watanabe S, Tsuchiya K, Murata K, Tabata Y. Vascular regeneration by pinpoint delivery of growth factors using a microcatheter reservoir system in a rabbit hind-limb ischemia model. Exp Ther Med 2012; 4:201-204. [PMID: 23139710 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2012.574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2012] [Accepted: 05/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare the results of delivering low doses of growth factor iteratively (20 μg x5) via a reservoir system with results obtained following a single administration of 100 μg of growth factor. The delivery systems using gelatin microspheres (GMS) facilitate the controlled release of drugs. The controlled release of growth factors at specific sites is essential for vascular regeneration. An ischemic hind-limb model was established in nine rabbits. A reservoir system was implanted in each rabbit. GMS impregnated with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) through an indwelling 2-Fr catheter was infused in the reservoir system. The rabbits were divided into three equal groups: group 1 received 20 μg iteratively (x5) via the reservoir, a single dose of 100 μg growth factor was administered to group 2 and group 3 was the saline control. The therapeutic effects were evaluated by measuring the thigh temperature, blood pressure and blood flow. An immunohistological analysis was also performed for CD31. No significant difference was observed between preand post-treatment (4 weeks following bFGF infusion) in the thigh temperature, blood pressure and blood flow results from each group. Pathological analysis revealed that the number of regenerated vessels was significantly higher in the group treated iteratively with low-dose bFGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norihisa Nitta
- Department of Radiology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192
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